Cause of Conflict Essay

* The Cause of Conflict is Because of Irresponsible Management. It was discovered that the predecessor of hosur health care had appointed five Supervisors to lead the center’s work force. He had little credibility with the employees. They had each been selected on the basis of seniority or their friendship with the previous manager. * The Communication Between the Management and the Employees was not Good. It was seen all the employees wer either demoralized or had tough, belligerent attitude towards the management. The employees were not afraid to settle their differences with their fist or verbal abuse. The predecessor had unintentionally encouraged this disruptive activity by largely depending upon the supervisor, to handle such problem and not being available to other employees. This led to the communication gap between the management and the employees. * No proper policies wer formed to for smooth operations at work. Which even led to cultural differences. Hosur health care was dominated by south Indians where budha was the only employ who is a north Indian. Which led to lot of differences between budha and other employees. There was a policy where the employees can listen to the radio when they are at work. But there was no policy which stated what kind of songs they can listen to. Anybody who come first at work place can play his favourite radio station for the rest of the day which was one of the reason for the conflict to start * There was no Human-Resource Department at Hosur Health Care. All the previous recruitment wer done by the manager himself. There was no human-resource department at hosur health care. This led to poor recruitment and no background check wer done, thus seven convicted felons wer recruited who wer fearless. * Managing Conflict (AVODING) The previous manager use to avoid all his responsibilities. Whenever the workers need him, he was never there. He was solely dependent upon the supervisors he had appointed. The maximum he would do is hollered at the workers and leave without even trying to settle the problem and resolve the issue. (All this points wer the major reason behind the conflict. Which forced the employees to develop a feeling of hatred towards each other and towards the management).

The Emperor’s Role in Meiji Japan

Japan is a society whose culture is steeped in the traditions and symbols of the past: Mt. Fuji, the tea ceremony, and the sacred objects of nature revered in Shintoism. Two of the most important traditions and symbols in Japan; the Emperor and Confucianism have endured through Shogunates, restorations of imperial rule, and up to present day. The leaders of the Meiji Restoration used these traditions to gain control over Japan and further their goals of modernization. The Meiji leaders used the symbolism of the Emperor to add legitimacy to their government, by claiming that they were ruling under the â€Å"Imperial Will. They also used Confucianism to maintain order and force the Japanese people to passively accept their rule. Japanese rulers historically have used the symbolism of the Imperial Institution to justify their rule. The symbolism of the Japanese Emperor is very powerful and is wrapped up in a mix of religion (Shintoism) and myths. According to Shintoism the current Emperor is the direct descendent of the Sun Goddess who formed the islands of Japan out of the Ocean in ancient times. Footnote1 According to these myths the Japanese Emperor unlike a King is a living descendent of the Gods and even today he is thought of as the High Priest of Shinto. Despite the powerful myths surrounding Japan's imperial institution the Emperor has enjoyed only figure head status from 1176 on. At some points during this time the Emperor was reduced to selling calligraphy on the streets of Kyoto to support the imperial household, but usually the Emperor received money based on the kindness of the Shogunate. Footnote2 But despite this obvious power imbalance even the Tokugawa Shogun was at least symbolically below the Emperor in status and he claimed to rule so he could carry out the Within this historical context the Meiji leaders realized hat they needed to harness the concept of the Imperial Will in order to govern effectively. In the years leading up to 1868 members of the Satsuma and Choshu clans were part of the imperialist opposition. This opposition claimed that the only way that Japan could survive the encroachment of the foreigners was to rally around the Emperor. Footnote4 The Imperialists, claimed that the Tokugawa Shogunate had lost its imperial mandate to carry out the Imperial Will because it had capitulated to Western powers by allowing them to open up Japan to trade. During this time the ideas of the imperialists ained increasing support among Japanese citizens and intellectuals who taught at newly established schools and wrote revisionist history books that claimed that historically the Emperor had been the ruler of Japan. Footnote5 The fact that the Tokugawa's policy of opening up Japan to the western world ran counter to the beliefs of the Emperor and was unpopular with the public made the Tokugawa vulnerable to attack from the imperialists. The imperialists pressed their attack both militarily and from within the Court of Kyoto. The great military regime of Edo which until recently had been all owerful was floundering not because of military weakness, or because the machinery of government had broken but instead because the Japanese public and the Shoguns supporters felt they had lost the The end of the Tokugawa regime shows the power of the symbolism and myths surrounding the imperial institution. The head of the Tokugawa clan died in 1867 and was replaced by the son of a lord who was a champion of Japanese historical studies and who agreed with the imperialists claims about restoring the Emperor. Footnote7 So in 1868 the new shogun handed over all his power to the Emperor in Kyoto. Shortly after handing over power to the Emperor, the Emperor Komeo died and was replaced by his son who became the Meiji Emperor. Footnote8 Because the Meiji Emperor was only 15 all the power of the new restored Emperor fell not in his hands but instead in the hands of his close advisors. These advisers such as Prince Saionji, Prince Konroe, and members of the Satsuma and Choshu clans who had been members of the imperialist movement eventually wound up involving into the Meiji Bureaucracy and Genro of the Meiji Era. Footnote9 Once in control of the government the Meiji Leaders and advisors to the Emperor reversed their policy of hostility to Foreigners. Footnote10 They did this because after Emperor Komeo (who was strongly opposed to contact with the west) died in 1867 the Meiji Emperor's advisors were no longer bound by his Imperial Will. Being anti-western also no longer served the purposes of the Meiji advisors. Originally it was a tool of the imperialist movement that was used to show that the Shogun was not acting out the Imperial Will. Now that the Shogun and Komeo Emperor were dead there was no longer a reason to The choice of the imperial thrown by the imperialists as a point for Japan to rally around could not have been more wise. Although the imperial institution had no real power it had universal appeal to the Japanese public. It was both a mythic and religious idea in their minds. Footnote11 It provided the Japanese in this time of chaos after coming in contact with foreigners a belief in stability (according to Japanese myth the imperial line is a unbroken lineage handed down since time immortal), and it provided a belief in the natural superiority of Japanese culture. Footnote12 The symbolism of the Emperor helped ensure the success of the restorationists because it undercut the legitimacy of the Shogunate's rule, and it trengthened the Meiji rulers who claimed to act for the Emperor. What is a great paradox about the Imperialist's claims to restore the power of the Emperor is that the Meiji rulers did not restore the Emperor to power except symbolically because he was both too young and his advisors to power hungry. Footnote13 By 1869 the relationship between the Emperor and his Meiji bureaucracy and the Emperor and the Tokugawa Shogun before the restoration were very similar. Both the Meiji Bureaucrats and the Shogun ruled under the authority of the Emperor but did not let the Emperor make any decisions. In Japan the Emperor reigned but did not rule. This was useful for the new Meiji bureaucrats, it kept the Emperor a mythic The traditions and symbols of Confucianism and the Imperial Institution were already deeply ingrained in the psyche of the Japanese but the new Meiji rulers through both an education system, and the structure of the Japanese government were able to effectively inculcate these traditions into a new generation of Japanese. The education system the Meiji Oligarchy founded transformed itself into a system that indoctrinated students in the ideas of Confucianism and reverence for the Emperor. Footnote15 After the death of Okubo in 1878; Ito, Okuma, and Iwakura emerged as the three most powerful figures among the young bureaucrats that were running the government in the name of the Meiji Emperor. Iwakura one of the only figures in the ancient nobility to gain prominence among the Meiji oligarchy allied with Ito who feared Okuma's progressive ideas would destroy Japan's culture. Footnote16 Iwakura it is thought was able manipulate the young Emperor to grow concerned about the need to strengthen traditional morals. Thus in 1882 the Emperor issued the Yogaku Koyo, the forerunner of the Imperial Rescript on Education. Footnote17 This document put the emphasis of the Japanese education system on a moral education from 1882 onward. Previous to 1880 the Japanese education system was modeled on that of the French education system. After 1880 the Japanese briefly modeled their education system on the American system. Footnote18 However, starting with the Yogaku Koyo in 1882 and ending with the 1885 reorganization of the department of Education along Prussian lines the American model was abolished. The new education minister Mori Arinori after returning from Europe in 1885 with Ito was convinced that the Japanese education system had to have a spiritual oundation to it. Footnote19 In Prussia Arinori saw that foundation to be Christianity and he decreed that in Japan the Education system was to be based on reverence for the Imperial Institution. A picture of the Emperor was placed in every classroom, children read about the myths surrounding the Emperor in school, and they learned that the Emperor was the head of the giant family of Japan. Footnote20 By the time the Imperial Rescript on Education was decreed by the Emperor in 1889 the Japanese education system had already begun to transform itself into a system that did not teach how to think but instead what o think. The Imperial Rescript on Education in 1889 was according to Japanese scholars such as Hugh Borton , â€Å"the nerve axis of the new order. â€Å"Footnote21 Burton believes that the Imperial Rescript on Education signaled the rise of nationalistic elements in Japan. The Imperial Rescript on Education was the culmination of this whole movement to the right. The Rescript emphasized loyalty and filial piety, respect for the constitution and readiness to serve the government. It also exalted the Emperor as the coeval between heaven The Constitution of 1889 like the changes in the education ystem helped strengthen reverence for the Imperial Institution. The 1889 constitution was really the second document of its kind passed in Japan the first being the Imperial Oath of 1868 in which the Emperor laid out the structure and who was to head the new Meiji government. Footnote23 This Imperial Oath was refereed to as a constitution at the time but it only very vaguely laid out the structure of government. The constitution promulgated by the Emperor in 1889 did much more then lay out the structure of Japanese government it also affirmed that the Emperor was the supreme sovereign over Japan. Footnote24 The signing ceremony itself was an auspicious event on the way to it Mori Arinori one of the moderate leaders of the Meiji government was attacked and killed by a crazed rightist. Footnote25 The ceremony itself evoked both the past and present and was symbolic of the Meiji governments shift toward the right and the governments use of the Emperor as supreme ruler. Before signing the document Emperor Meiji prayed at the palace sanctuary to uphold the name of his imperial ancestors he then signed the constitution which affirmed the sanctity of the Emperor's title (Tenno Taiken), and his ight to make or abrogate any law. Footnote26 The constitution also set up a bicameral legislature. Footnote27 The constitution codified the power of the Emperor and helped the Meiji oligarchy justify their rule because they could point to the constitution and say that they were carrying out the will of the Emperor. The Meiji Emperor even after the Constitution of 1889 enjoyed little real power. The Meiji Emperor did not even come to cabinet meetings because his advisors told him if the cabinet made a decision that was different then the one he wanted then that would create dissension and would destroy the idea of the Imperial Institution. So even after the Meiji Constitution the Emperor was still predominantly a symbol. Footnote28 The Constitution ingrained in Japanese society the idea that the government was being run by higher forces who new better then the Japanese people, it also broadened the base of support of the Meiji Rulers who now had a document too prove they were acting on Imperial Will and their decisions were imperial decisions not those of mere mortals. Footnote29 The symbolism of the Emperor and use of Confucianism allowed the Meiji rulers to achieve their goals. One of their goals was the bolishment of the system of fiefs and return of all land to the Emperor. At first the new Meiji Rulers allied themselves with the Daimyo clans in opposition to the Tokugawa Shogun. But once the Meiji leaders had gained a control they saw that they would need to abolish the fief system and concentrate power in the hands of a central government. The Meiji rulers achieved their goals by having the Choshu, Satsuma, Tosa, and Hizen clans give up their lands, granting the Daimyos large pensions if they gave up their clans, and by having the Emperor issue two decrees in July 1869, and August 1871. Footnote30 The role and symbolism of the Emperor although not the sole factor in influencing the Daimyo to give up their fiefs, was vital. The Meiji Oligarchs said that not turning in the fiefs to the Emperor would be disloyal and pointed to the historical record which Meiji scholars claimed showed that historically all fiefs were the property of the Emperor. Footnote31 They showed this by claiming that the Shogun would switch the rulers of fiefs and this proved that the Daimyos did not control the title to their land but merely held it for the Emperor. Imperial decrees and slogans of loyalty to the Emperor also ccompanied the abolishment of the Samurai system. Footnote32 In the abolishment of both these feudal systems the symbolism of the Emperor as both the director of the initiative and recipient of the authority afterwards played a vital role in ensuring there success. Footnote33 The abolishment of fiefs and the samurai class were essential for the stability and industrialization of Japan. Footnote34 Without the concentration of land and power in the hands of the Meiji oligarchs and the Emperor the Meiji oligarchs feared they would receive opposition from powerful Daimyos and never gain control and uthority over all of Japan. Historical examples bear out the fears of the Meiji Oligarchy; in 1467 the Ashikaga Shogun failed to control many of the fiefs and because of this a civil war raged in Japan. Footnote35 The centralization of power allowed the Meiji government to have taxing authority over all of Japan and pursue national projects. Footnote36 The unity of Japan also allowed the Meiji Oligarchs to focus on national and not local issues. The use of Confucianism and the Emperor also brought a degree of stability to Japan during the tumultuous Meiji years. The Emperor's ere presence on a train or in western clothes were enough to convince the public of the safety or goodness of the Meiji oligarchy's industrial policy. In one famous instance the Japanese Emperor appeared in a train car and after that riding trains became a common place activity in Japan. The behavior of the Imperial family was also critical to adoption of western cultural practices. Before 1873 most Japanese women of a high social position would shave their eyebrows and blacken their teeth to appear beautiful. But on March 3rd 1873 the Empress appeared in public wearing her own eyebrows and with unblackened teeth. Following that day most women in Tokyo and around Japan stopped shaving their eyebrows and blackening their teeth. Footnote37 The Imperial institution provided both a key tool to change Japanese culture and feelings about industrialization and it provided stability to Japan which was critical to allowing industrialists to invest in factories and increase exports and The symbols and the traditions the Meiji leaders inculcated Japanese society with helped the Meiji government maintain stability and pursue its economic policies but it also had severe limitations that limited the revolutionary scope of the Japanese government and elped bring about the downfall of the Meiji era. The use of Confucianism and the Emperor to bolster the Imperial restoration laid the foundation for a paradox of state affairs. The system that sought to strengthen Japan through the use of modern technology and modern organization methods was using traditional values to further its goals. Footnote39 This caused some to turn toward the west for the â€Å"enlightenment† the Meiji era promised this was the case with Okuma who was eventually forced out of the increasing nationalist Genro. Footnote40 For others it lead them to severe nationalism rejecting all that was western. This was such the case of Saigo who believed till his death on his own sword that the Meiji leaders were hypocritical and were violating the Imperial Will by negotiating and trading with the west. Footnote41 The Meiji government used the same symbols and traditions that the Tokugawa used and like the Tokugawa gave the Emperor no decision making power. The Meiji Emperor although he had supreme power as accorded in the constitution never actually made decisions but was instead a pawn of the Meiji Genro who claimed to carry out his Imperial Will. This Imperial Will they decided for themselves. Like the Shogunate the Meiji governments claim to rule for the Emperor was fraught with problems. The Imperial Will was a fluid idea that could be adopted by different parties under changing circumstances. And just like the Meiji rulers were able to topple the Shogun by claiming successfully that they were the true administrators of the Imperial Will; the militarist elements in the 1930's were able to topple the democratic elements of Japan partially by claiming the mantle of ruling for the Emperor. Footnote42 From this perspective the Meiji Oligarchs building up of the Imperial Myth was a fatal flaw in he government. The constitution which says in article I, â€Å"The empire of Japan shall be governed over by a line of Emperors unbroken for ages eternal† gave to whoever was acting on the Imperial Will absolute The symbols of the Emperor and the tradition of Confucianism did not end with the end of the Meiji era or world war two. Today the idea of filial piety is still strong, multiple generations of a family still usually live together even in cramped Japanese housing. The religion of Shinto that the Meiji leaders rejuvenated during their rule in order to help foster the imperial cult is still thriving as he thousands of Tori gates and Shrines around Japan attest. Footnote44 But the most striking symbol to survive is that of the Emperor stripped after world war two of all power the Emperor of Japan is still revered. During the illness of Emperor Showa in 1989 every national newspaper and television show was full of reports related to the Emperor's health. During the six months the Showa Emperor was sick before he died all parades and public events were canceled in respect for the Emperor. Outside the gates of the Imperial palace in Tokyo long tables were set up where people lined up to sign cards to wish he Emperor a speedy recovery. The news media even kept the type of illness the emperor had a secret in deference to the Emperor. At his death after months of illness it was as if the Imperial Cult of the Meiji era had returned. Everything in Japan closed down , private television stations went as far as to not air any commercials on the day of his death. And now almost six years after his death more then four hundred and fifty thousand people trek annually to the isolated grave site of Emperor Showa. Footnote45 The traditions and symbolism of Confucianism and the Emperor ere critical to the Meiji oligarchs gaining control of power and goals of industrialization. The oligarchy inculcated the Japanese public with these traditional values through an education system that stressed moral learning, and through a constitution that established the law of Japan to be that of the Imperial Will. The values of Confucianism and symbol of the Emperor allowed the Meiji government to peaceful gain control of Japan by appealing to history and the restoration of the Emperor. But the Meiji oligarchs never restored the Emperor to a position of real political power. Instead he was used as tool by the oligarchs to achieve their modernization plans in Japan such as the abolishment of fiefs, the end of the samurai, the propagation of new cultural practices, and pubic acceptance of the Meiji oligarchs industrialization policies. The symbols and traditions of Japan's past are an enduring legacy that have manifested themselves in the Meiji Restoration and today in Japans continued reverence for Hidejiro Nagata, A Simplified Treatise on The Imperial House of Japan Takatsu Kuwasaburo, The History of The Empire of Japan (Tokyo: Dai Nippon Tosho Kabushiki Kwaisha, 1893) 206.

A Study of Fauvism

A Study of Fauvism Fauvism For artists, the twentieth century began five years late. Late it might have been, but when it got going, it was decades ahead of its time. In 1905 nothing was as modern as modern art. It was to remain that way throughout the century. There are many people who still fail to understand the art introduced in 1905, over seventy years ago. That first modern art appeared in an exhibition in Paris in 1905. Among the participating artists was one of the centurys most famous, Hentri Matisse. Along with Matisses art were works by Maurice de Vlaminck, Andre Derain, and Georges Rouault. Today the works of these artists hang in museums, but in 1905 they werent yet famous. To the public they were infamous. Their paintings were so shocking that one newspaper critic called them the work of Fauves a French word meaning wild beasts. The name stuck so that all the artists who exhibited in that 1905 show were ever after called Fauves and their paintings were dubbed Fauve art. The name Fauve was given to the art of Matisse, Vlaminck, and their colleagues, even though they didnt work with a common principle. And, as years passed, their personal art changed. Paintings done by some at the end of their careers little resembled those done at the beginning. Still, the name. Fauve continued to be used. These were the pioneering artists of the twentieth century and their art, Fauve painting, was the pioneering movement of our century. Theory The fauve artists had no single or unifying principle of art. Perhaps that was necessary for the centurys pioneering movement. Their one basic theory was experimentation. Thats what shocked the 1905 French Public. Their art was so experimental that it resembled nothing gallery visitors had ever seen before. Fauve art doesnt seem so radical today. Thats because their interest in experimentation became the guiding principle of almost all twentieth century art movements. Experimentation in art has meant discovering new types of visual expression. It can be the general theory guiding all the art projects you try in this book. It was originally a fauve principle. However, if most twentieth-century art movements have been guided by experimentation, those experiments have been controlled by further theories. The leading Fauve theoretician was Henri Matisse. His colleagues followed many of his ideas, and his thoughts about art inspired many twentieth-century art developments. To gain an understanding of Fauve art, you can do no better then examine the art and ideas of Matisse. Nor can you find any better guide for developing your own art. Here is what Matisse once said about his art. Expression is what Im seeking most of all however, expression doesnt mean the passion which a human face reflects. The total composition of my painting is expressive. My arrangement of figures or objects, the empty spaces surrounding them, their proportions, everything has its roll to play. Except for Georges Roualt, most Fauve painters followed Matisse and sought expression with the total painting, the total subject. This isnt a simple goal. Its one achieved only after much time and thought. Studying the work of Matisse can help you understand Fauve expression in art. Matisse expressed himself with line. He did this by simplifying the line in his work. This meant eliminating unnecessary lines and using only the most important. These were, of course, the lines that created the shape of his subjects, not the lines that defined details. He wasnt interested in linear details. In short, he simplified his drawing. But simplified drawing doesnt mean you will automatically produce expressive lines in your art. Simplification can mean producing nothing more than a simple but disjointed sketch. More is required. Matisse and his Fauve friends did it by creating rhythmic lines. His lines swing easily, curve and twist like a melody. Matisse created such expressive lines in painting like The Dance. The joy of dance requires lines with lovely rhythm. He eliminated details. In the essential lines that remained, he created graceful bends and flowing curves, lines swinging with the delight of dancing. The Fauves also expressed themselves in color. They understood that color was essential to painting. They didnt feel color should be dominated by subject matter. This means their use of color wasnt dictated by realism. Instead, color could stand on its own. Fauve artists intensified their colors, using bright flesh colors, pinks oranges, and reds for faces. They created shadows of bright colors. In one famous painting, Matisse painted a green stripe down the face of his wifes portrait. He used green because it was the strongest color contrast to the reddish tone of the painting. In such painting, you notice the color before you notice the subject. Such a bold use of color doesnt mean you can color without thinking. In fact, you must be even more careful with color in such a case. A realistic artist who uses color poorly can claim his inadequate colors only copy the poor coloring of his subject. However, Fauve artists couldnt do this. Their bold coloring was of their own choice so they had to be especially sensitive to the use of color they used in their art. Thats why color is such an important ingredient in Fauve art. When you create art in the spirit of Fauve painters, you too will be very conscious of your use of color. You will also be conscious of your use of line. When thinking like a Fauve artist, youll experiment. Like Matisse, youll seek expression in your art in the way you use line and color. Youre line will be simplified and your color diverse from realism. Yet your lines will have beauty and expression because youll give them rhythm and grace. Your colors will be beautiful, because youll treat them intelligently and with sensitivity. Thats how the Fauve artist worked when producing some of the greatest paintings of 20th century art.

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The Impact of Privatisation on Sustainability of Water in the United Essay

The Impact of Privatisation on Sustainability of Water in the United Arab Emirates - Essay Example Thus keeping a sustainable water supply in place is essential for the future of the country. Interviews have a number of strengths and weaknesses associated with them. Among the strengths are the ability to gauge both the knowledge and attitudes of the respondents, and also how the two influence one another. The weakness is that these are purely qualitative in nature, and so cannot produce quantitative, empirical evidence as to the state of the water supply and sustainability in the UAE. This study involved 29 interviews divided evenly between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah: the three major cities in the UAE. As will be illustrated, there were contrasts both intra- and inter- city in the attitudes towards and knowledge of sustainable water supplies. It is these attitudes that will be so important in the decades to come as creating a sustainable water supply is as much a matter for the general population as it is for the government of a country. Sustainability can only occur with the active cooperation of the population, without this it is merely a pleasant but empty ideal with no practical basis. It is interesting to note the variety of responses to both the definition of â€Å"sustainability† and how the respondents expanded on â€Å"what is important with regards to sustainability?† The definitions range from the simple to the complex to the comprehensive. Thus AUH1 states simply, â€Å"Sustainability for water means you use only the renewable resources that you cannot affect or deteriorate your water resources which is not here applicable in Abu Dhabi Emirate because the demand is more than water production and we rely on ground water which is not renewable.† Apart from the difference in style of reply, it is obvious that AUH1 places the definition of sustainability clearly (and solely) within the human context of whether â€Å"everyone† has a secure and safe

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Explain a Marketing Concept - Essay Example Customers often do not and cannot describe their needs precisely and it is a marketers job to find out the same. Gillette has been in the business of safety razors ever since 1904. It has been constantly innovating and offering new products as per the market needs. In the late 1980s, companys sales were languishing and market share plummeting. Company was quick enough to realize this and in 1990 launched a product called Sensor– an advanced twin blade shaving system. It was designed to have a pivoting head equipped with moving blades so as to adjust with facial contours. This new offering facilitated closer and smooth shave and thereby Sensor became an instant success for it satisfied markets one of the niche area. It is not surprising that Sensor captured 15% market in the razor and blade segment. Subsequently, Gillette also introduced the ‘SensorExcel’ for women to cater exclusively the women shaving needs. The company continued to offer innovative products such as Gillette Mach3 Turbo, Gillette for Women Venus in the shaving segment year after year to meet the needs of t he ever expanding market. Pencil cell market is huge and usual complaint is a shorter life span of these cells needing replacement quite often. Gillette realizing this drawback of existing product lines introduced high-tech alkaline batteries called Duracell Ultra having a life span much larger than conventional batteries. Needless to say that this new offerings in the name of Duracell became an instant success in the market place for many home gadgets such as digital flash cameras, cell phones, watches. Thus, Gillette is the classic example that offers new products through innovation to fulfill the needs of the consumers and the company’s continued business success proves that new offering to fulfill ever increasing consumer needs is the great marketing

To be Determined Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 2

To be Determined - Essay Example In this concept, the literature written by Dante Alighieri entitled â€Å"Divine Comedy† is a humanitarian literary work in nature mainly because it expresses that writer’s opinion regarding after-life and spirituality concepts. This prominent literary work is considered to be a fictional expression of the writer regarding the fallacies and inadequacies of the prominent social and religious structure during his time. Because of this reason, the story itself becomes explicitly influenced and affected by external factors in the creative realm of the author thus making its ideas commonly applicable during those times. But from the time of its creation, society has already undergo many changes and influential development thus regarding most of the concepts highlighted in the said literature to be inapplicable and contradictory in its very intrinsic nature. Divine Comedy is mainly a fictional of illusionary expression of the author’s imaginative journey through the realms of hell, purgatory and heaven. In his travels to hell, he have explicitly illustrated its literal nature and narrative the common social icons he have encountered in the said place. Thus journey however is contextual regarded to be the expression of the author’s personal concept regarding the idea of sinful acts and its capital punishment. To clearly discuss the author’s concept regarding sin and the actions that are considered to be wicked, it is better that the people who are considered sinners at those times be identified according to how the author perceive them in terms of the degree of seriousness of their offensive nature as related through the different levels or circles in hell. First in the list is the unbaptized pagans which are also regarded to be sinners at the author’s times regardless of their life morals and their actions. Second are the lustful people in terms of sexuality without or with neglectful restrain of themselves and their desires. Third are the

Genetic Testing and Counseling in Pregnancy Essay Example for Free

Genetic Testing and Counseling in Pregnancy Essay For many women, pregnancy is met with excitement. However, for a few couples, the pregnancy can take a completely different turn when the fetus is determined to be afflicted with Tay-Sachs disease. This is a genetic condition, usually found in Caucasians, and primarily those of Jewish descent, and develops in 25% of cases when both parents carry the recessive gene (National Tay-Sachs and Allied Diseases [NTSAD], n. d. ). Genetic counseling is a relatively new concept in healthcare and â€Å"is the process of helping people understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to disease† (National Society of Genetic Counselors [NSGC], 2005, para. 2). For the men and women facing a pregnancy involving Tay-Sachs, genetic counseling is a viable and important option to consider. However, to ensure quality care and education, genetic counseling needs to involve a team of healthcare professionals from a variety of backgrounds. Interdisciplinary Team Members and Their Roles in Genetic Counseling Appropriate members of a multi-disciplinary team for the Trosacks include a genetic counselor, a nutritionist or dietician, the high-risk OB-GYN physician, a registered nurse specializing in high-risk perinatal care, and a therapist specializing in marriage and family therapy needs. Each member of this team will add a unique perspective to the Trosack’s case. The genetic counselor has graduate-level education and experience in both medical genetics and counseling (NSGC, 2005, para. 1). Using her expertise and skills, she will review the medical history for Mr. nd Mrs. Trosack, and their families, identify other genetic risks that may exist and explain inheritance patterns. She will provide information and resources for further education on genetic disorders, so that they can continue to learn about Tay-Sachs and connect with other families facing the disease. In addition to this expert information, the Trosacks will benefit from a nutritionist or dietician. The nutritionist not only has special training in the area of nutrition, but also in educating patients about their options and making nutritious choices. In general, a nutritionist can â€Å"advise individuals†¦on the nutritional practices that will promote good health, [and] structure and recommend diet plans for whole families†¦including guides to the correct preparation of meals and shopping for the right foods (Princeton Review, n. d. ). He will perform a nutrition assessment, provide education on additional nutritional needs due to pregnancy, and even assist with meal planning to ensure a health pregnancy. He will continue to assess and make recommendations on Mrs. Trosack’s nutritional needs based on lab work throughout the pregnancy. The patient’s overall care is the responsibility of her OB-GYN, who specializes in high-risk pregnancies. A high-risk OB-GYN has a lengthy education, residency and fellowship history to gain knowledge in caring for older patients, patients with specific medical conditions and patients carrying a pregnancy that has been determined to need specialized care. The perinatologist is not only capable of making diagnoses other obstetricians may miss, but can also perform specialized procedures and administer medications across the placenta (Perinatologists, n. d. ). She will assess the medical needs of Mrs.  Trosack and the fetus throughout the pregnancy, monitor fetal growth and development, order diagnostic tests as needed, and provide referrals to other specialists as needed. Working with the physician will be a nurse specializing in prenatal clients. This nurse has chosen to expand on her nursing education, taking additional classes and obtaining certifications specific to perinatal care. He will assess the couple’s understanding of pregnancy and prenatal care at the first visit and make a plan to educate them on each stage of pregnancy and fetal development as well as options available during labor and delivery. Additionally, he will ensure the couple understanding for each test or referral suggested by the physician. Due to the nature of the diagnosis, the couple will also benefit from a marriage and family therapist on their team. The couple has already expressed exasperation over the diagnosis, and volley between denial and acceptance of the diagnosis. Additionally, Mrs. Trosack has already expressed guilt over her workload and its â€Å"affect† on the baby. Mr. Trosack has expressed anger, which can lead to resentment. The strong emotions felt by both parties need to be expressed in a healthy way to preserve their marriage, and a therapist specializing in family matters is an appropriate facilitator. She will meet with the couple together, as well as individually to assess their feelings about the pregnancy, the Tay-Sachs diagnosis and the feelings they have toward each other. The therapy sessions will continue after the birth of their baby, due to the nature of the disease and the stress the baby’s health will add to their lives. Teaching Plan for the Initial Visit  The teaching plan for the Trosacks’ initial visit at the high-risk pregnancy center will include the following:  ·Genetic diagnosis—The Trosacks need to understand the diagnosis of Tay-Sachs: how it is transmitted, the probability of other pregnancies testing positive, and what symptoms their child is likely to develop. This will help them to understand they have done nothing wrong and prepare for the special needs their child will have.  ·Treatment—No treatment exists for the disease itself, but the Trosacks will benefit from learning about the symptoms their child may develop and how those symptoms are treated. They will be informed of ways to keep their child safe and comfortable during the illness.  ·Prognosis as it applies to Tay-Sachs—The prognosis for infantile Tay-Sachs is poor, with most children becoming progressively worse until their death by age 4 or 5. The Trosacks need to be informed of this so that they can make preparations—for themselves and other family members. Because most children develop normally until around six months of age, the Trosacks need to know that an absence of symptoms does not mean an absence of the disease (NTSAD, n. d. ). They need to know that their time with this child will be limited and filled with doctor visits and difficult medical decisions. With this education and advanced notice, they can begin to discuss which treatments they may consider (medications) and those treatments they may not want to consider (feeding tube).  ·Support groups and appropriate referrals—With the Internet, the community of support for families with Tay-Sachs has greatly expanded. The Trosacks will be given information on local support groups as well as the internet communities available to them. They will be directed to the National Tay-Sachs and Allied Disease, March of Dimes and National Organization for Rare Disorders websites to connect with other families who are living with Tay-Sachs. This support will help the Trosacks connect with the only other people who know what they are going through, share their concerns without fear of judgment, and learn from those have gone through it all personally.  ·Pregnancy information—Information on pregnancy is necessary for any pregnant woman, especially during her first pregnancy. Over the length of the pregnancy, the Trosacks will learn about how pregnancy and fetal development progresses during each trimester, what changes Mrs. Trosack can expect—physically and emotionally, and ways in which Mr. Trosack can be of assistance to her. The first visit will specifically cover the development to date and through the end of the first trimester. They will view pictures of the developing fetus and the ways in which Mrs. Trosack’s body is changing to accommodate the pregnancy. Ethical Implications of Having Genetic Information Available While genetic testing is a wonderful addition to the vast array of diagnostics medicine now offers, it can bring about new ethical implications. In reference to autonomy, genetic testing can sometimes reveal information about one’s family that was not known. For example, a Caucasian family may be surprised to find they are carriers for Sickle Cell disease, a disease found primarily in African-Americans and can bring about questions regarding the family history. These discussions may lead to the ethical issue of perceived invasions of privacy for other family members. Another example would be the dilemmas that occur when there is a difference in societal believes and one’s personal beliefs. First, â€Å"persons with a genetic condition may prefer not to learn that their offspring is at risk for the condition, or they may prefer to have offspring with the same condition present in other family members† (Halsey Lea, Williams, Donahue, 2005, para. 15). Secondly, some people may feel it is unjust to bring a baby with anomalies into the world. The results of genetic testing in these instances may necessitate decisions about continuing pregnancy, selective termination and adoption. A third example of ethical dilemmas in regards to genetic information being available is in relation to beneficence and nonmalificence. For example, clinicians caring for a pregnant patient find the baby she is carrying has spina bifida. The patient states her sister had spina bifida and that she wants to deliver her baby in the community hospital with a midwife. The clinician now must balance her respect for her patient’s wishes with the concern she feels in allowing a baby with special needs to be born in an environment that cannot provide services that may improve the birth’s outcome (Halsey Lea et al. 2005). A fourth ethical issue is that of justice. For, some genetic disorders can be found with testing while others still cannot. For example, â€Å"the ability to identify carrier status for a mutation in the gene for cystic fibrosis is lower among Asian American and African American persons† than it is in Caucasians (Halsey Lea et al. , 2005). Thus, the results of testing performed on an Asian American or African American patient may not be a reliable indicator of their carrier status. Personal Thoughts, Feelings and Advocacy As a woman, this writer cannot begin to imagine the feelings felt by the Trosacks. After years of trying to conceive, they learn that they are finally pregnant only to find out their baby is likely to die by age five from a horrible, progressive disease. If in Mrs. Trosack’s shoes, would this writer be brave enough to continue the pregnancy, knowing the prognosis? I do not know. I am sure, however, that the Trosacks have a difficult road ahead of them. If I were Mrs. Trosack, I would expect to feel a constant state of grief—over the diagnosis and the life my child will not have, the loss of those milestones parents look forward to (first day of school, first dance, etc), the impending months or years of illness. I would hope that I could treasure the better moments I do have with my child—from birth to death, holding her as much as possible, trying to focus on the symptom-free moments, taking as many pictures as I can to record her short life. I question how angry a woman would feel in this situation. Surely, even those women with strong religious beliefs question the â€Å"why† of the diagnosis and circumstance. â€Å"Why, after all this time allow me to conceive if you’re going to give me a child so sick? What is the point of bringing a child into life if they are to suffer throughout? Why us? † Would a woman facing this diagnosis feel as if everyone pities her? While reading the case study, I found myself feeling pity for her, knowing that she would lose her child in such a horrible way after wanting a child so badly. Despite these feelings, the Trosacks’ choice to continue their pregnancy is just that†¦their choice. Many people think that being pro-choice means advocating for abortion. However, it is my belief that being pro-choice means advocating for people to make the best choice for themselves in particular situations. For, only those going through a particular situation know best how well or poorly they can handle a decision and circumstance. Their decision to continue a pregnancy after the diagnosis was made is a brave one and speaks volumes to their character and beliefs. The Trosacks’ case manager will work with each member of the interdisciplinary team to ensure they respect the wishes of the couple. The couple needs to know that they are supported and are being treated without judgment from the team members. She will meet with the team members to ensure they are able to continue treating with couple appropriately. If any of the team members express an inability to refrain from sharing their personal feelings with the couple, she will find suitable replacements. While the team members are entitled to their feelings, they are expected to keep those feelings to themselves when caring for patients. And, when patients are facing emotional and controversial decisions, the separation is even more important. Ethical and Legal Considerations When the Trosacks made the decision to continue the pregnancy after learning their baby has Tay-Sachs, they became bound, legally and ethically, to care for the child after the birth. Ethical considerations include the decision to bring a child into a life of poor health and early death after a progressive decline. Many people in society will judge them for this, and the child will be perceived in certain ways by others. Further, they will be faced with the decision to allow researchers to follow their child in an effort to gain more information about the disease in search for a cure. The child has no autonomy as a minor, and has no right to privacy when her parents are making the decisions. Another ethical question is who owns the genetic information? The genetic information is on the child’s DNA, but the parents are the ones making all the decisions. Legally, there are several areas of concern for the couple. First, they are now bound to provide healthcare to this child, despite the poor prognosis. They must provide food, clothing and shelter, and keep the child safe and comfortable as she declines. The child will eventually develop problems with swallowing, and at that time, will require further interventions to maintain life. Secondly, they are required to provide medical care for the child; and, with the poor prognosis, this is likely to involve many appointments, testing and medications or treatments. Third, they may have problems with insurance coverage, as some insurance policies may consider the child’s diagnosis to be pre-existing, denying coverage for any treatments associated with the disease. Though this is certainly not ethical, it is legal in this country, and may lead to financial problems and difficulty in continuing to obtain quality medical care.

Carrier Selection Determinants

Carrier Selection Determinants The purpose of this chapter is to review past literature that has been made available regarding the subject of carrier selection. The first section of this chapter will begin with global maritime overview. Next, the concept of logistics management and the issues related to transport and customers will be discussed. Finally, the end of the chapter will review the issues related to carrier selection including important determinants in shippers’ making decision process. 2.2 Global Maritime Overview According to UNCTAD (2008), over 80 percent of world merchandise trade by volume carried by sea because it supports international trade and globalization. In 2007, the volume of international seaborne trade reached 8.02 billion tons. The volume increased of 4.8 percent from the previous year. Dry cargoes were the largest share of good loaded. The world merchant fleet expanded by 7.2 percent during 2007 to 1.12 billion deadweight tons (dwt) at the beginning of 2008. Major loading areas were located in developing countries which are 63.2 percent while developed countries accounted as 33.3 percent. Because of high demand for shipping capacity, vessel order increases at highest level which it is 12 times higher that it was in June 2002. The top 35 shipowning countries together controlled 95.35 percent of the world fleet. By May 2008, the world containers fleet reached 13.3 million TEUs. In addition, the containership sector is investing in larger ship to achieve economies of scale to red uce costs. However, in the year 2007, the containership market was effected by higher fuel cost, a weakening US dollar, a strengthening Euro, and an increased supply of newbuilding coming online. Oil price impacted directly to bunker cost level which resulted higher bunker fuel price for 73 percent in Rotterdam, 76 percent in Singapore and 79 percent in Los Angles. Furthermore, maritime transport tends to have further discussions such as security and air pollution and climate changes. The industry is more concerns on environmental issues because heavy oil burned in shipped results in higher level of sulphur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. International trade is the main driver of container flow. In the year 2005, North and East Asia is the most significant driver of container trade which was accounted for 50 percent of export trade. In the year 2015, North and East Asia is expected to increase its world market share by approximately 12 percent while North America and Europe are expected to lose market share by 5 and 7 percent respectively. In other world, North and East Asia trade was the key driver of global container flow in the year 2005, and it has potential to grow until the year 2015. The estimated and forecast growth rates for full container trade (Figure 2.1) tend to reach up to 235.7 million TEUs in the year 2015, and the compound growth rate during the period 2005 – 2015 is 7.6 percent per annum. This estimation is full origin-destination containers only. The empty containers are not included.According to Drewry Shipping Consultants ( ) as cited by UNCTAD (2008), container trade is expected to reach 2 87 million TEUs and exceed 371 million TEUs by the year 2020. 2.2.1 Impacts of Credit Crisis on International trade 2.3 Logistics Management Logistics management is the process that relates to plan, implement and control the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services, and information in both the manufacturing and service sector from the point of origin to the point of consumption in order to meet customers’ requirement. Logistics management is to control raw materials, in process inventory and finished goods(Stock and Lambert, 2001). Gecowets (1979) explains about logistics concept that â€Å"The five rights of a logistics system are supplying the right product at the right place at the right time in the right condition for the right cost to those customers consuming the products.† According to Quayle and Jones (2001), logistics is defined as the process that needs management and co-ordination of all activities from sourcing and acquisition, through production and through distribute channel to customers. The authors also explain that the goal of logistics is to create competitive advantage through the simultaneous achievement of high customer service levels, optimum investment and value for money. In addition, the authors explain about the business functions within the scope of logistics management or know as â€Å"logistics mix† which include planning and marketing strategy, purchasing, production planning, storage and material handling, inventory management, warehouse and stores, transport, customer service, and technical support. Relevant toBowersox et al. (2007), logistics relates to the management of order processing, inventory, transport, and the combination of warehousing, materials handling, and packaging (Figure 2.2). However, Croom, Romano, and Giannakis (2000) do research on critical literature review of supply chain, and they conclude that supply chain has lack of universal definition because the way of supply chain has been developed, so it leads to different point of view. Business functions in logistics management: Facility Network Warehousing, Material Handling, and Packaging Integrated Logistics Management Order Processing Transport Inventory Logistics requirement have increased to serve consumers who want and demand quicker response times and more convenient offerings. Moreover, it is also pressured by consumers related to the prices, so the company needs to control its supply chain as efficiently as possible (Coyle, Bardi, and Langley, 2003). 2.3.1 Importance of Logistics Ballou (1999) explains that logistics is about creating value in terms of time and place, so good logistics management means the activities that contribute to the process of adding value. Logistics management is related directly to minimising the cost which can derive benefits to the consumers and to the firm’s shareholders. Logistics management can result of the profit squeeze and potential profit leverage because it is the area to significantly save cost which has greater impact in the firm’s profitability that increasing sales volume would have(Stock and Lambert, 2001). 2.3.2 Challenges in Logistics Management Meixell and Norbis (2008) claims there are many forces that bring about new challenges in logistics management. Some of them originate in the shipper community, carrier community and consumers themselves such as the growing concern for the environmental impact of the products they purchase. In the research, the authors also explain five logistics challenges that influence transport choice which are transport capacity shortages, international growth, economies of scale, security concern, and environmental and energy use concerns. Transport Capacity Shortage The issue is relevant to all transport modes. In motor carriers, capacity is limited due to tighter hours-of-service regulation, driver shortage, and higher toll that strain truck capacity (Meixell and Norbis, 2008). Maloni and Jackson (2005) report that international marine container volumes have increased over recent years, but North America ports and their supporting container distribution have not increased capacity accordingly. LaLonde (2004) reports that fuel cost impact the large carriers which can lead to a wave of bankruptcy and a consequence of reduction of industry capacity. The author also mentions about driver shortage which has resulted in some truck parked against the fence for the lack of drivers. Railroads are operating at or near capacity and they have been reluctant to make a huge investment, so it put more pressure on motor carrier industry and more truck on road. International Growth Meixell and Norbis (2008) claim that international growth is a challenge for logistics management because it involves activities related to international trade such as providing adequate transport and storage, getting items through custom, delivering to foreign location in timely fashion at an acceptable cost. According to Hines (2004), customers have become more demanding in terms of requiring special features or adaptations to a standard product. Therefore, the challenge is that suppliers have to fulfill the individual customer demand profitably by integrating the supply chain process to satisfy the demand. Economies of Scale The issue relate to shipment size because full truckloads can minimize the cost associated with the capital expenditure for equipment. Economies of scale also involves in handling of inventory. It is cheaper to ship cases than ship individual units and also cheaper to ship in pallets than to ship individual cases (Meixell and Norbis, 2008). The concept is similarly to Stock and Lambert (2001). The authors explain that inventory is required if a firm is to realize economies of scale in purchasing, transport, and manufacturing. Moreover, when the firm purchases material in larger volume, it reduces transport cost per unit because full truckload and rail car shipments receive lower transport rate than smaller shipments of less than truckload (LTL) or less than carload (LCL) quantities. Security concerns Security issue and supply chain must relate together because terrorist attack can impact the business operation (Meixell and Norbis, 2008). Sheu, Lee, and Nihoff (2006) also do research about logistics security programmes, and they claim that the efficient operation of international logistics affected by the September 11 tragedy. In Unites States, new security measure added cost approximately $151 billion annually. However, the need of security and efficiency should stay balance because if the need is overwhelming, it can cause delay of logistics process. Environmental and Energy Concerns A growing concern over the environment and energy challenges to logistics managers (Meixell and Norbis, 2008). According to Wu and Dunn (1994), logistics is a part of firm that should become environmental friendly, and the role of logistics managers have been increasing because their decision have a major impact on environment. They should deliver the green products to consumers to maintain the good image of the firm. However, the challenges of logistics managers is that how to incorporate environmental management principles into their daily decision making process. The author also mentions about mode selection impacting on the environment. Rail and barge use less energy than road haulage and air cargo. Marphy, Poist, and Braunschweig (1994) claim that logistics managers have the greatest ability to influence environmental issue involving pollution and natural resources preservation. According to Benson, Bugg, and Whitehead (1994), International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and similar regulatory bodies provide a wide range of study to increase environmental awareness and consequent tougher regulatory on the environment. Marine pollution is a matter of oil pollution after accidents at sea or the deliberate discharge of pollutants in the process of washing tanks. The pollution also comes from the loss overboard of containers or deck cargoes of chemicals, fertilizers and similar products. Air pollution results from emissions, and noise pollution also come from busy roads or near major airports. In the result, companies need an environmental audit to review their operation regularly with the preparation and adoption of training programmes to create awareness of environmental issues. 2.4 Role of Transport in Logistics Management Transport is a major component of the logistics management because it relates to the movement or flow of goods from point-of-origin to point-of-consumption. Transport is a factor in creation of time utility because it can determine how fast and how consistently products move from one point to another (Stock and Lambert, 2001). The decisions about logistics management related to transport includes operating one’s own transport versus hiring transport, mode, carrier, and service selection, method of freight consolidation, vehicle routing and crew and trip scheduling, and equipment selection, replacement, and acquisition (purchase, lease, or rent)(Vogt, Pienaar, and Dewit, 2002). According to Coyle, Bardi, and Langley (2003), transport cost represents approximately 40 to 50 percent of total logistic cost and 4 to 10 percent of the product selling price, so the authors conclude that transport decisions directly affects the total logistics costs. In logistics perspectives, three fa ctors that are fundamental to transport performance include cost, speed, and consistency. The cost of transport is the payment for moving between two places and the expenses related to maintaining in-transit inventory. Logistical system should utilize transport that minimizes total system cost, so it means that the least expensive method of transport may not result in the lowest cost of logistics. Speed of transport is the time required to complete a specific movement. Faster transport service may charge higher, so selecting method of transport should stay balance between speed and cost of service. Finally, consistency reflects the dependability of transport which always shows as the most important attribute of quality transport (Bowersox et al., 2007). Quayle and Jones (2001) also mention similarly that firm should concern with the factors relating to reliability, time, and price. 2.4.1 Mode of Transport and Characteristics Railroads According to Ballou (1999), the railroad is a long hauler which moves the raw materials and low valued manufactured products. The author also explains that there are two legal forms which are common carriers and private carriers. A common carrier sells its transport service to all shippers, but private carriers are owned by shippers with the usual intent of serving only the owner. The advantage of railroad is to transport large tonnage over long distance, but disadvantage of railroad is having high fixed cost due to expensive equipment, right-of-way and tracks, switching yards, and terminal. However, railroad has low variable operating cost (Bowersox et al., 2007). Motor Carriers Motor carrier is a part of any firm’s logistics supply chain because almost every logistics operation needs the motor truck from the smallest pickup truck to the largest tractor-semitrailer combination. Similarly to railroads, motor carriers have two types which are for-hire and private carriers. Motor carriers commonly transport manufactured commodities over relatively short distance. The commodities include textile and leather products, rubber and plastics etc. The major advantage is ability to provide service to any location. However, weather condition and highway traffic can disrupt motor service and effect transit time reliability. Contrary to railroads, motor carriers have high variable cost, but low fixed cost(Coyle, Bardi, and Langley, 2003). Air Carriers Air carriers offer a very fast and fairly expensive mode of transport. Airlines have a high fixed cost in infrastructure and equipment. The commodities are the high-valued items or time-sensitive emergency shipments that have to travel a long distance. The shipments that are less than 500 pounds including high-value but light weight and high-tech products are suited for air carriers (Chopra and Meindi, 2007). According to Benson, Bugg, and Whitehead (1944), the advantage of air carriers are direct flight possible to all ports of the world and speed much higher than any other mode of transport. However, disadvantages are high freight rate, possible delay due to bad weather, more restrictions on size and weight. Water Carriers Cuneo (2003) claims that more than 90 percent of world trade travels in containers aboard ocean – going ships, and about 20 million containers move through 220 ports around the world every year. Shipper can use water carriers in combination with other mode of transport. Water service on the average is slower than rail and availability and dependability can be effected by bad weather. Loss and damages cost from water carriers are considered low relatives to other modes. However, packaging is more concerned to protect goods during handling when loading and unloading operation(Ballou, 1999). 2.4.2 Critical Changes in Transport According to Coyle, Bardi, and Langley (2003), there are five major areas of change which are deregulation of the U.S. ocean liner industry, intermodalism, shipment control, trade policies, and currency fluctuation. The Shipping Act of 1984 and the Ocean Reform Act of 1998 is the greater reliance on the market place to control rate. Therefore, the elimination results in more rate negotiation, the right of conference carriers to take independent action on rates and service agreement which response to the laws of supply and demand. According to Stock and Lambert (2001), the deregulation has resulted in increased inter-intrafirm competition, greater pricing freedom, flexibility in routing and scheduling. It has increased the need of marketing oriented, and shippers have more carriers to choose. Secondly, intermodalism means the use of two or more transport mode which can provide a service to the shipper-customer that appears to be seamless (Coyle, Bardi, and Langley, 2003). Intermodal t ransport is a combination to take advantage of the inherent economies of each and thru provide an integrated service at lower total cost (Bowersox et al., 2007). Next, shipment control means high tech communication system that can deliver effective communication and control system. Customer can track the progress of the shipments. In addition, trade policies can impact the way of transport. Some countries set up protective barrier to restrict import goods, so delay of custom procedure can happen which also result in delay shipments. Finally, fluctuation in world currency can significantly affect logistics decision such as choice of transport mode and carrier. Definitely, value of currency also affects freight rates and importing and exporting volume which also affect traffic of transport (Coyle, Bardi, and Langley, 2003). 2.5 Logistics Strategies Related to Customers Logistics and Marketing Zinn (2000) mentions that logistic and marketing should come together because logistics management is developed to deliver value to customers and fulfill customers’ need. Therefore, the need of marketing and logistics integration has been more increasing. Customer service is often the key link between logistics and marketing.Coyle, Bardi, and Langley (2003) claim that if the logistics system has problems, and customers will not receive a delivery as promised, the company could lose future sales. The logistics process is to deliver and produce the good products at the right cost, but if there are some mistakes with the process, the customers will be satisfied. Therefore, it has a link between marketing and logistics management. Innis and LaLonde (1994) found that both of logistics and marketing contribute to customer satisfaction because marketing is responsible for creating and managing demand while logistics is responsible for fulfilling demand. The Role of Logistics in Establish Customer Service Levels Logistics operation serves a particular important advisory function because the goal of marketing department is to increase sales, but sometimes they ignore the cost to achieve them. The logistics department can outline the alternative means of delivering products to customers and help to calculate the cost for different level of service. They can help to determine the level of customer service and pricing policies (Marphy and Wood, 2004). According to Coyle, Bardi, and Langley (2003), there are four dimensions of customer service from a logistics perspectives. They contain time, dependability, convenience, and communication. Time is related to order cycle time, lead time, and replenishment time. Order cycle should be consistent with reasonable length. Dependability is more important than lead time for some customers. It affects directly to inventory level and stockouts cost. Moreover, dependability also means safe delivery and correct order. Communication involve with accurate infor mation and electronic flow of information. Finally, convenience is understood as flexibility. Logistics service should be adaptable for different customers. 2.5.1 Partnering Relationship between Carriers and Shippers Ellram and Hendrick (1995) explain partnership as a relationship between two firms that committed for a period of time share mutual information, risks, and rewards of the relationship. Relevant to Mohr and Spekman (1994), partnership is defined as independent firms who share goals, strive for mutual benefit, and acknowledge a high level of mutual interdependent. Cooke (2000) claims that supply chain management and collaborative transport management propel transport buyers and their service providers toward stronger mutually beneficial relationships. Dwyer et al. (1987) explain that buyer-seller relationship should have a basic list of critical success factors for strategic alliance. It includes detailed planning foe future exchange, increased measurement and qualification, sharing benefits and burden, reduced uncertainty, shared efficiency and high switching costs. Ellram (1991) also identify that trust between firm, transfer of necessary information, mutual dependence, and sharing o f new technology are the key attributes of successful relationship in buyer-seller partnership. Traditionally, relationship between shipper and carriers was arm length transaction. Each of them tries to maximize its own interests with little interest in their both relationship. However, both of them have begun to recognize the mutual benefits by developing alliance (Lambert and Stock, 2001). According to Gibson, Rutner and Keller (2002), the research found that trust, effectiveness, and flexibility are the most important determinants to develop and manage long term cooperative partnership between carriers and key shippers. Byme (2004) explains that when fuel price are rising dramatically, carriers have no choices, but have to increase price. It can affect relationship between carriers and shippers. The solution of the problem is to increase collaboration between shippers and carriers. Carriers should have end-to-end processes such as load planning, tendering and delivery confirmation. Technologies such as sharing tracking and transaction information are also important to collab orate. Lu (2003) claims that effective services result in successful partnering relationships. 2.6 Carrier Selection Decision The decision making process is the stage that includes mode choice and carrier selection which can identify relevant transport performance variables, select mode of transport and carrier, negotiate rates and service levels, and evaluate carrier performance (Monczka et al., 2005). Stock and Lambert (2001) claims that mode and carrier selection is important because shipper can reduce the number of carriers with whom they do business. When shippers have high volume, they get bigger discount and higher level of service that result in lower transport costs. Meanwhile, carriers prefer to deal with fewer shippers with large consistent volume over long period of time. Burdg and Daley (1985) claimed that the process of selection is involved with behavioural approach which includes environmental and organizational factors. The performance of the transport carrier may influence the effectiveness of the entire logistics function of a company and the process of carrier selecting is an important t o the company’s success. However, the research explored that regulatory and market changes are drivers for change in transport choice attributes (Norbis and Meiwell, 2008). In addition, Gattorna and Walters (1996) claim that there are five factors that are influent the choice of transport containing company characteristics and philosophy, market structure, product characteristics, customer characteristics, and environmental issues. Firstly, the company should concern its marketing, financial, and operation strategies. Marketing can determines customer service offer and customised to meet different customers’ needs. Financial is also involved with the profit objectives. Secondly, market structure is essential consideration. In competitive market, delivery may be the key factor influencing customers’ selection. Thirdly, product characteristics are involved with weight, size, and shape. Next, customer characteristics can impact on profitability. The company should check customer profile, order cycle, and customer after-sales service requirements. Finally, environmental issues can influence transport decisions because in some countries, govern ment is influent in transport policy. 2.6.1 Selecting and Making Decision Process Figure 2.3 Four decision stages Search Choice Post-choice Evaluation Problem Recognition According to Stock and Lambert (2001), there are four decision stages (Figure 2.3) occur in the mode/carrier selection decision which are problem recognition, search, choice, and post-choice evaluation. Firstly, the problem recognition is the stage that is affected by a variety of factors such as customer orders, dissatisfaction with existing mode/carrier, and changes in the distribution patterns of firm. Next, customers will come to search process which they scan a variety of information sources. The possible source can be their past experiences, carrier sales calls, existing company shipping record, printed materials such as advertising brochures, and customers. This process can take a considerable of time. Then, the important stage is choosing. There are many critical attributes concerned in this stage, and executives will choose the mode/carriers that satisfy their requirements. Finally, transport executives evaluate the choice performance. Many firms use many techniques such as cost studies, audits, on-time pickup and delivery performance, and damage/claims reviews while some of them use statistical analysis. 2.6.2 Behavioural Approaches Related to Transport Study Gray (1982) presented three assumptions associated with carrier choice. First, Economic Positivism is explained that economic value related to the firm which determines the use of transport. This approach related to price and profit. The firm attempts to maximize short term revenue and minimize short term cost in a trading. The second approach is called technological positivism which is associated between the physical aspects of commodity such as weight and volume and the transport system such as speed and frequency. The last approach is perceptual approach which related to user interpretation of the situation rather than on physical attributes. 2.6.3 Important Attributes in Selecting Carriers Shipper Perspectives To make a decision, customers need to realize value in order to make a selection, so this part will review the important attributes for shipper to make the selection carrier criteria. Lu (2003) surveyed Taiwan Shippers and found that the five most important carrier service attributes are availability of cargo space, low damage and loss record, accurate documentation, reliability of advertised sailing schedule, and courtesy of inquiry. The research also found that there is a significant correlation between timing related, pricing and warehouse service, so it can imply that to satisfy customers, carrier service should combine these things together. Mater and Gray (1993) explored that shippers in Irish Sea market concerned the most five factors to select carriers which are a fast response to problems, on time collection and delivery, value for money price, and good relationship with carriers. According to Kent and Parker (1999), the mail survey was sent to 125 companies which divided in to 50 import shippers, 50 export shippers, and 25 international containership carriers. Shippers identified the top factors for selecting carrier which are reliability, equipment availability, service frequency, rate changes, loss and damage, and financial stability. The research also found that the factors of selecting carriers between import and export shipper are different in the factor of door to door transportation rates. The research also concluded that service factor is important factor for export customers. Gibson et al. (1993) reported that the key criteria for carrier selection includes a willingness to meet service expectation, an established track record of outstanding performance, a willingness to focus on continuous improvement, the ability to handle special needs and emergencies and a willingness to meet cost goals. Tengku Jamaluddin (1995) investigated the service attributes that are important in carrier selection process, and the result indicated the top five service factors which are knowledgeability, freight rate, cargo care and handling, punctuality and transit time, and service frequency. Chiu (1996) assessed the performance of liner shipping in shippers’ perspectives. The result indicated that the six most important service attributes contains a prompt responses from a carrier to any problems, transit time, reliability, documentation services, a notice of delay, and assistance with loss and damage claims.Lu (2007) reviewed from past research and questionnaire survey of 230 shipping executives to find out the important key of capabilities for liner shipping services. The review concluded that transit time and frequency of service are ranks as important criteria in the context of liner shipping services. Saleh and Das (1974) found that reliability of transit time, consistency in serv ice, company image and special handling abilities are important carrier attributes. Coulter et al. (1989) reviewed the past research and used the relevant criteria to develop questionnaire. The resulted showed that reliability of performance is considered first and follow by Insurance of service provision, quality of service, personalizing factors and handling service. McGinnis (1990) found that there are six factors influent transportation choice which are freight rate, reliability, transit time, loss/damage/claims processing/tracing, shipper market consideration and carrier considerations. Carrier Perspectives Carriers do not really understand which selection criteria tend to influence a shipper’s choice of carriers. Carriers can lose competitive advantage if they still understand differently with shippers which definitely results in a decrease in market share. Moreover, the research found many carriers’ perceptions that are significantly different from what shippers want. Carriers rated personal relations with the carriers as highly important while shippers rated the factor only moderately important. Regular calls by carrier sales representatives, gift and gratuities offered are overrated by carriers, but shippers rated as slightly important or not important. In addition, the research conclude

Teaching Philosophy Via the Internet Essay -- Technology Education Lea

I defend the practical value of teaching undergraduate philosophy courses in the Internet. Three important objectives of philosophical education can be achieved as effectively by electronic means as in the classroom. First, information about the philosophical tradition can be conveyed by hypertext documents on the World-Wide Web. Second, philosophical dialogue can be conducted through participation in an electronic forum. Third, close supervision of student writing can be achieved by means of e-mail submission of written assignments. In each case, I argue that the electronic method offers significant advantages to student learning. Many of the colleagues who discover that I have begun offering philosophy courses over the Internet express a similar set of reservations. Although they often grant that this must be an interesting project and sometimes admit that it may turn out to be worthwhile, they are uniformly skeptical about the prospect for its success. Accustomed as we have become to face-to-face interaction between instructor and student in the classroom, we find it difficult to imagine teaching philosophy in any other way. Thus, the introduction of alternative methods is often greeted with a suspicion that "this may be true in theory but does not apply to practice." With respect to use of the Internet to teach philosophy, this paper will allay that suspicion. In what follows, I identify three important objectives of philosophical education and show how each of them can be achieved while relying exclusively upon electronic communication. Indeed, in each case I argue that appropriate use of Internet resources provides clear advantages over the methods employed in a traditional classroom. Teaching philosophy on the Intern... ...ted is well-spent, since it results in important educational benefits for the students who participate. In addition, teaching on the Internet can make philosophy instruction available to many people who might otherwise lack an opportunity to acquire it. Those with impaired mobility, vision, or hearing can take advantage of electronically-mediated accommodations in order to participate in the educational process alongside those who do not face similar obstacles. Those whose geographical location or employment schedule prevents easy access to a traditional college classroom can join in a well-designed on-line course whenever it is convenient and wherever they are. In keeping with the theme of this Twentieth World Congress of Philosophy, teaching philosophy on the Internet will significantly contribute to the achievement of our goal of philosophy educating humanity.

A Comparison of the Monsters of Frankenstein, Bladerunner, and Star Tre

In the long history of the existence of fantasy literature, writers represent monsters as something opposite to the human being. The prior conflict of this genre is usually "man Vs monster." Several examples of science fiction seemingly portray antagonistic creatures yet they are depicted as being similar to humanity: the replicants in the film Bladerunner; the monster in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein; and the Borg in Star Trek. In each of these examples, the aforementioned "monster(s)" posses human-like characteristics (some, like the replicants in Bladerunner appear almost exactly human) yet are still "monsters," they are not quite human. Thus each of the human societies shuns and despises these creatures for what they are. The significance of the alignment of the monsters with ourselves is how the monsters are the personification of our ontology. The unconscious human mind is the content of what these works attempt to personify in the monster. As Donna Haraway said in he r "Cyborg Manifesto," "we are all chimeras." The curious thing is that the protagonists in some of the works actually portray monster-like characteristics--a role reversal between the monster and the hero of the work: "We have found the enemy and he is us." The analogy of the monsters is actually depicted in each of the work's respective humans' thoughts and deeds. This also shows the authors' portrayal of the monster-like and thus human-like characteristics of the human unconscious and the conscious mind. The role-reversal of an antagonistic monster and the human hero is never more blatant than in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. In modern pop culture, the name of Frankenstein is often associated with the monster of the novel. Unkn... ...w much do our genes control how we will live our lives? Our dependence on machines is one popular theme in science fiction including Star Trek. The Borg are cyborgs--completely dependent on their mechanical components to survive. In modern society, how much do we depend on machines to survive? The Borg reflects several aspects of our own human society and human self. Donna Haraway says, "The cyborg is our ontology...The machine is us." Frankenstein's monster, the replicants, and Star Trek's Borg each is analogous to the monster within a subconscious or unrealized level within modern reality. The unconscious needs of modern technology, the uncertain amount of genetic programming within us, and the unknown about the human's unconscious mind are all objectives explored in the allegorical genre of science fiction as we explore the monster within.

Giving Universities the Business Essay -- essays papers

Giving Universities the Business "The business of America is business." Calvin Coolidge "To talk in public, to think in solitude, to read and to hear, to inquire and answer inquiries, is the business of a scholar." Samuel Johnson In the last ten years there has been a concerted movement in this country to re-design schools according to the Business Model--a movement which has recently gained an apparently unstoppable momentum. We hear continually of the university's need to open up "new markets," to learn new ways to "compete" and create new "customer bases"; simultaneously, we are bombarded with demands from the politicians and administrators who control our public funds to increase our "productivity" and "accountability." (1) Justifications for this evangelical urge are various, but usually take one of two forms: the Times Are Tough argument, which assumes that the traditional sources of university revenues (tuition and public funds) are "drying up," and that the logical substitute are Product Dollars, i.e., money "customers" will only spend for a "product" they have been convinced they either want or need; and the Schools Are Lazy argument, which assumes that universities are islands of idleness and inefficiency in the ocean of American business success, and that the missionaries from the business world can redeem our scholars by converting them to habits of rigor and accountability. Both of these models take their inspiration from the definitions of "business" which usually go something like "a commercial or industrial establishment where the demands of profit rule all other considerations." Interestingly enough, this and related definitions seem to assume "profit" can only be achieved through activitie s practical,... ...orgotten all about teaching: "... [the] culprit is 'process'--the belief that we can teach our children how to think without troubling them to learn anything worth thinking about." Quoted in Cultural Pedagogy: Art/Education/Politics, David Trend, Bergin & Garvey, New York, 1992. 3 As I know this figure will be greeted by some with skepticism,a more detailed breakdown of the average academic work week is available in the WWW document Work Load Figures. 4 Though it may finally be dawning on some that business does not equal efficiency and success when it comes to education, as with Baltimore's recent decision to terminate its contract with EAI. 5 For instance, the recent reorganization of GEDs was a perfect opportunity to negotiate a matching reduction in teaching load, from 4/4 to the much saner (and standard) 3/3. Was a single word spoken about such a "deal"? Giving Universities the Business Essay -- essays papers Giving Universities the Business "The business of America is business." Calvin Coolidge "To talk in public, to think in solitude, to read and to hear, to inquire and answer inquiries, is the business of a scholar." Samuel Johnson In the last ten years there has been a concerted movement in this country to re-design schools according to the Business Model--a movement which has recently gained an apparently unstoppable momentum. We hear continually of the university's need to open up "new markets," to learn new ways to "compete" and create new "customer bases"; simultaneously, we are bombarded with demands from the politicians and administrators who control our public funds to increase our "productivity" and "accountability." (1) Justifications for this evangelical urge are various, but usually take one of two forms: the Times Are Tough argument, which assumes that the traditional sources of university revenues (tuition and public funds) are "drying up," and that the logical substitute are Product Dollars, i.e., money "customers" will only spend for a "product" they have been convinced they either want or need; and the Schools Are Lazy argument, which assumes that universities are islands of idleness and inefficiency in the ocean of American business success, and that the missionaries from the business world can redeem our scholars by converting them to habits of rigor and accountability. Both of these models take their inspiration from the definitions of "business" which usually go something like "a commercial or industrial establishment where the demands of profit rule all other considerations." Interestingly enough, this and related definitions seem to assume "profit" can only be achieved through activitie s practical,... ...orgotten all about teaching: "... [the] culprit is 'process'--the belief that we can teach our children how to think without troubling them to learn anything worth thinking about." Quoted in Cultural Pedagogy: Art/Education/Politics, David Trend, Bergin & Garvey, New York, 1992. 3 As I know this figure will be greeted by some with skepticism,a more detailed breakdown of the average academic work week is available in the WWW document Work Load Figures. 4 Though it may finally be dawning on some that business does not equal efficiency and success when it comes to education, as with Baltimore's recent decision to terminate its contract with EAI. 5 For instance, the recent reorganization of GEDs was a perfect opportunity to negotiate a matching reduction in teaching load, from 4/4 to the much saner (and standard) 3/3. Was a single word spoken about such a "deal"?

Full Metal Jacket (1987) Essay

The Film: Pro-War or Anti-War? A question as to the war sentiments of this film can be most accurately answered through an analysis of Private Joker.   As his nickname suggests, the young marine is glib; using his sharp wit, average John Wayne interpretations, sense of irony and his readily apparent above-average intelligence to keep himself detached from the training and the Vietnam War.   It is as if he knows the futility of his actions, covers the meaninglessness of it all by going through the motions and yet uses his humor as a defense mechanism.   His message is clear:   It means nothing to me but I do it anyway. Hence, in answer to the question of whether the film is pro or anti war, I would have to say neither.   It does acknowledge both sides of story.   Its general message is not to preach, merely to tell a story or a situation like it is.   An illustration of this is how Private Joker wears a hat with the message ‘Born to Kill’ on it and at the same time sports a peace sign on his marine uniform.    In fact Private Joker himself put a name to the vacuum of opinion he (or man in general) is in:   the duality of man.   This philosophical concept, while very Jung-ishly technical is another way (at least in the film’s context) of putting confusion and hypocrisy.   It speaks of an inner battle being waged inside a man’s soul; not necessarily about good or evil, right or wrong†¦but more about belief. What is exactly that you believe in? Another illustration of this so-called duality is seen during the hazing of Gomer Pyle.   Once again the inner battle of Private Joker can be used as an anchor of this concept.   Initially, he hesitated in throwing the poor man a blow with his makeshift weapon.   In the end, however, he did land a few good hits.   The inner struggle can be seen later on when Joker covers his ears to drown our Pyle’s cries.   If Joker had been fully comfortable from the beginning with the physical hazing, I doubt that he would have bothered to cover his ears.   This just goes to show how one’s soul gets racked when one does something that half of him disapproves of. Portrayal of War What sets the film apart from other war movies is that it has a lot less drama.   There are no heart-wrenching one-liners.   It painted the circumstances of the war without the usual dramatic coatings that tug at one’s tear ducts.   On the other hand, it did not paint war either as fiercely brutal.   Like what I mentioned earlier, war was painted it like it was.   In that sense, one can say that the portrayal of war in this film is realistic.   It must be said however that if one has not experienced war first-hand, one can never really know what it is like. And even with that, each war is different.   Hence, all I can offer is my perception of the war that was portrayed in the film. War, with its shallow characteristics were equally portrayed along with the intricacies that usually accompany loss, brotherhood, bloodshed and self-realization.   One the one hand, Kubrick masterfully conveyed the message that war, from a soldier’s perspective, is merely about the survival, detached from the political machinations that caused it in the first place. Justifiable War   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In my opinion, the film does not touch upon issues of morality.   It makes no judgment calls.   What it does is bring all the ingredients of war into the mix and calls for the viewers to come up with their own conclusion.   There is, at least in my view, no hard and fast message about the justifiability of war that can be easily gleaned from this film.   Therefore, in answer to this question of whether or not the film viewed war as justifiable, one must look into each character. If one pegs the answer to the character of Animal Mother, war is justifiable—as long as one is the victor.   His character is of the opinion that war is the ultimate means to display one’s superior strength.   On the other hand, the character of Eightball pointed out that the Americans were in Vietnam to help the locals.   He was very miffed about the fact that the supposed beneficiaries of their aid were very ungrateful of it.   Therefore, through this perspective, it can be said that war can be justified if the cause is rooted in good intentions. Relationships among the characters   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Like all war movies, the concept of brotherhood plays a central role.   The ties of brotherhood were bound by the most powerful forces on earth: hardship, pain, loss and bloodshed.   It is amusing to note however, that even in the midst of war there were competitions being waged on the same side.   Although some of the competitions were outright obvious (i.e. Animal Mother and his Alpha-Male swagger towards Private Joker), others were less evident.   This highlighted one more characteristic of war.   While it is essentially about winning over the enemy, it is also about besting the rest of your team.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There is also the idea that one person is responsible for the next one.   Like most other responsibilities in life, this may not be a great gift but it must still be done.   Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful) says it all.   It speaks of a responsibility one man to another no matter the cost.   The burden is not always welcomed, like with Private Joker and Rafterman, but it is always there. The enemy   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   From the viewing of the film, I walked away with two concepts of the ‘Enemy’.   During their training days, I was of the conclusion that the enemy (as a general concept) was on some level respected.   This can be seen in the Marine’s Prayer when they recite that a line about shooting straight and narrow against the enemy.   The general idea is that while the enemy might be good, a Marine is always better.   However, there is still a begrudging respect accorded.   This respect to the potential abilities of the enemy is obvious from how hard the Marines train for combat.   Nothing is left to chance.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   However, during the war portions of the movie, I got the feeling that the soldiers overly relied on the idea that American Marines are the best that they underestimated the enemy.   It was amazing how they still displayed shock over the Tet Offensive.   It was of course masterful on the part of the Vietnamese fighters to lull the Americans into the false sense of security.   However, the Americans should have known better.   They completely underestimated their opponents and paid handsomely for the mistake. Reinforcing stereotypes   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In my opinion, the film mainly reinforces the stereotypes of machismo and women.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The stereotypes of the macho man, valued only for his brute strength is to a certain extent unavoidable—Full Metal Jacket is a war movie after all.   The stereotype of the soldier is reinforced as well: the image of an un-thinking, un-feeling killing machine that does not weigh any moral or ethical issues, believing only the sanctity of the command.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The role of women is viewed through a narrow lens as well.   There are only 2 women that make an appearance in the film:   a prostitute and a sniper.   The idea of Ann Margret, although she never made an appearance, can also be considered as a third role of women. The obvious implications of these three roles are far-reaching and will take more than 10 pages to fully discuss in detail.   However, it is quite obvious that the film also reflects the belief of the times that women, despite the many advances for the cause, could be viewed as either a prostitute, a treacherous killer or an object of sexual desire. Meaning to the wartime experience   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The first half of the film shows the harsh indoctrination of boys into angry, killing Marines.   The severe methods employed by the group’s drill sergeant left no room for innocence and self-assurance to survive.   These marines, although it was their training that hardened them, one can say that it was the war that wizened, matured them.   This can be clearly seen as we see how the central character (the narrator of sorts), Private Joker progresses during the film.