ASPECT OF COMPLIANCE TO TREATMENT IN RELATION TO THE DIAGNOSIS OF TYPE Essay

ASPECT OF COMPLIANCE TO TREATMENT IN RELATION TO THE DIAGNOSIS OF TYPE 2 DIABETES - Essay Example The present era witnesses a great deal of stress in every aspect of life. This results in increased incidence of hypertension, or cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Stress also induces dyslipidaemia and diabetes. Research and various clinical findings formulate that appropriate treatment is essential to decrease the incidence of morbidity and mortality happening due to all these ailments. It is essential to understand that all these conditions require lifelong treatment. Compliance with medicine is most essential to procure health benefits and to curtail the forthcoming consequences in terms of economic burden, wastage of time and money and other associated diseases with these ailments (Putzer, 2004). The present era witness a remarkable mount in occurrence and pervasiveness of type 2 diabetes in both pediatric and adult groups due to outbreak of overweight resulting in obesity, sedentary life style, resistance towards insulin and other metabolic conditions. It is therefore imperative to screen patients who show high-risk for diabetes and pre-diabetes. This step not only ensures on time diagnosis and exact classification but also ensures rapid onset of treatment and hence decreased risk for complications (Putzer, 2004). In order to avoid these complications it is essential that lifestyle modifications encompassing, modifications in diet, loss of weight and an appropriate schedule of physical exercise to sustain glycemic control. When these interventions fail then oral anti-diabetic agents are added as a part of regimen. It is established that type 2 diabetes cases require insulin therapy. When insulin or its analog is administered, there is a decrease in hypoglycemia. In severe cases when oral agents are also not able to procure enough control over the glycemic index, insulin therapy is given (Putzer, 2004). The situation

Procurement Purchasing Supplier

Procurement Purchasing Supplier After having investigated briefly in general the concept of procurement and the emergence of the concept of procurement , it is imperative for us in this chapter to delve in detail the analysis of the concept of procurement , the various theories which have been predicated at the international level and their relevance for our study under investigation . We would also have to critically scrutinise how the different models of procurement effectiveness measurements can help us in our analysis to delve in greater detail the relevance of procurement from the perspective of SOM . It is important that we have to undertake a holistic approach in the investigation of procurement practices and procurement effectiveness in our literature Review chapter for this forms the foundation of our secondary research. Our primary research which would be delved in detail in the subsequent chapters would be further developed on the strong foundations of this chapter. In the final analysis we would be util ising in adequate measure the concepts from the secondary research as they develop in this chapter and couple it with our derivations from primary research to gain a greater in-depth understanding of procurement practices in Shell Oman and hypothesize relevant recommendations and remedial solutions for bringing about effective changes in the present operational systems at SOM Definition of Procurement Relevance : it is important for our study to understand clearly the meaning and exact phraseology behind procurement for the purposes of investigation of procurement practices in SOM . Since Procurement is an extremely broad concept which has applicability from strategic , operations and tactical level , various definitions would have to be looked into and strategically decipher their level of applicability for our purpose of investigation . Procurement, purchasing, and supplier management are all terms used extensively. They may mean the same or sometimes may have significant differences. Since the term procurement covers many areas, from operational to strategic levels, Knudsen (1999) has summarized the different terms, used for acquiring good and services in the following table. Level Term Meaning Strategic Supply Management To be aware of the strategic impact of procurement and fully exploit it by formulating a supply strategy Tactical Procurement To satisfy internal demands with external sources which adhere to objectives set at the strategic level Operational Purchasing The minimum activities required to obtain external products or services that result in invoice from an external source Timo et al (2005), argued in their document, the quantitative definition of purchasing is not accurate and suggest to a broader scope of purchasing, adding pensions, other personnel costs, financial expenses and increase in assets within the scope. They define Purchasing as: â€Å"Invoices or payments based on exchange of physical objects, services or rights†. There are two basic types of purchasing in the business world: (1) Purchasing for resale and (2) purchasing for consumption or conversion (Dobler and Burt, 1996). Purchasing for resale is performed primarily by merchants. Industrial buyers buy materials, services etc. for manufacturing companies, service business, institutions, utilities, and various government agencies. Other definitions of Procurement are as follows: Procurement is the acquisition of systems, goods or services at the best possible total cost of ownership, in the right quantity, at the right time, in the right place for the direct benefit or use of the governments, corporations, or individuals generally via, but not limited to a contract. (Project Management Body of Knowledge, 2000) Procurement is the process of acquiring goods, works and services, covering both acquisition from third parties and from in-house providers. The process spans the whole life from identification of need, through to the end of a service contract or the end of the useful life of an asset. It involves options appraisal and the critical â€Å"make or buy† decision which may result in the provision of services in-house in appropriate circumstances. (The Procurement process The Buyers Magazine, 2000). In the context of a procurement process, obtaining â€Å"best value for money† means choosing the bid that offers â€Å"the optimum combination of whole life cost and benefits to meet the customers requirement†.† (National Procurement Strategy for Local Government in England, 2003) The Importance of Procurement Relevance : The importance of procurement in the changing face of corporate scenario of today is all the more important as there is a greater strategic interface between the procurement department and the other key departments within functional global corporate entities . In this regard the study of importance of procurement as a terminology would help us in understanding and appreciating the strategic shift in focus of procurement operations from tactical to a crucial strategic level . This would help us in highlighting the importance of procurement practices in organisations such as SOM under investigation Many authors wrote about the importance of procurement function in todays organization and how it can impact the bottom line. Different terms are used in the literature, Procurement, Purchasing or Supply management but they all apply to the process of acquiring goods and services for the business, which account for a huge corporate expenditure. The following main objectives show how the procurement function can contribute to a companys competitiveness (Axelsson et al, 2005): †¢ Cost optimisation (e.g. lower transaction costs and overhead costs) †¢ Asset utilisation (e.g. outsourcing and inventory management) †¢ Value creation (e.g. process/products development and quality improvement) According to Procurement strategy council, the procurement function today is viewed as an important component of a firms strategic arsenal, the modern purchasing department can reduce a firms operational expenditure through streamlined purchasing and price reductions for goods and services. The article discuss that a smart purchasing can reduce costs 20% to 30%, freeing up funds to be used elsewhere. The realization that purchasing can impact bottom line saving has elevated procurements strategic importance. (Procurement Strategy Council, 2001) Improving the Bottom Line Reductions in Procurement Costs Directly Affect Net Income Income Statement (in millions US$) Initial 3% Reduction in OR Revenues $1000$1000 Operating Resources (OR) $350 $339 Direct Materials$220$220 Wages, Salaries, Benefits$200$200 Depreciation$110 $110 Taxes $60$60 Net Income After Taxes $60$71 Reducing purchasing costs translates directly into bottom line savings. By lowering OR costs by $11 million, a firm directly raises its after tax income by the same amount. Source: (Procurement Strategy Council, 2001) Further, van Weele describes in his book, ways that procurement can contribute to the companys competitiveness. They play a critical role in quality assurance by working with suppliers to ensure higher quality standards regarding incoming goods and services. Procurement can also effect how quickly a firm reacts to changes in demand, through increased involvement in supply chain coordination and inventory management. In addition, by reducing purchasing costs the function can contribute to substantial price reductions of the end product. The leverage effect of purchasing can be considerable depending on the purchasing-to-sales ratio and the capital turnover ratio. (van Weele, 2005) Nowadays companies outsource most of their activities, increasing their reliance on the competitiveness of their suppliers. . (J. Hamilton, 2002). As a support case study, the case of Toyota cars (Japan), can be highlighted, wherein 83% of all activities are outsourced form various global suppliers. (Toyota, 2000). This makes the process of procurement quintessential and in fact the most important, in todays business world. If a company procures the right quality products, at the right price, with the right delivery schedule, only then and then alone can it remain productive and competitive in todays environment (Ian McMillan, 2005) This shows that if the procurement process is not right, then the company product, the company image, competitiveness et al would surely take a dive. According to van Weele, â€Å"This is why management has become increasingly aware of the purchasing function†. Once regarded as a reactive activity, the procurement and sourcing process at leading firms is at the forefront of responding to and creating change. (Procurement Strategy Council, 2001) Within the past year, several new research initiatives from different relevant perspectives prove persuasively that excellence in procurement can lead to a host of proven, quantifiable business benefits (Procurement Strategy council, 2001). Lower operating costs, higher ROI, and a direct contribution to the bottom line are among the principal advantages that have been documented. The increased impact from purchasing on corporate performance is supported by a study recently conducted by IBM Business Consulting Services. In the study, called The 2005 Chief Procurement Survey, purchasing managers and other people in leading positions at companies around the world were interviewed concerning the current and future role of purchasing. Many reasons to the increased importance are pointed out, for example the growth in outsourcing, corporate restructuring and increased supplier value adding and risk. (The 2005 Chief Procurement Survey, 2005) Another study, conducted by business consultancy Archstone Consulting, found that nearly 90 percent of participants agreed that procurement plays a strategic role in the competitiveness of their organization, but needs to be further elevated in the organizational hierarchy to be truly effective. (Supply and Demand Chain Executives, 2004) The best-practice companies truly understand the power of procurement, says Pierre Mitchell, a director at The Hackett Group, which recently concluded an in-depth research into the procurement practices of more than 300 companies, found that world-class organizations generate 133 percent greater return on their investment in procurement than the average companies. The bottom line is that world-class companies continue to take a very different view of procurement, looking at it as an investment rather than as a cost center, says Mitchell. This is how they generate the millions of dollars in additional savings that other companies dont see. (Quinn, 2005) Ready or not, procurement is moving to center stage, with top billing on the corporate agenda. At companies around the world, CEOs and boards are counting on procurement initiatives to keep their businesses favourable positioned in todays intensely competitive marketplace. (The Global CPO Survey, 2005) To understand the new found omnipotence of the procurement process in organisational hierarchy, it is imperative to understand the stages of development of the process, right from its inception (Quinn, 2005). Historical Development Relevance : The historical development of procurement would help us to analyse the changing face and role of global procurement practices and understand critically how over the years the concept of procurement has begun to occupy the one of the centre stages for corporate performance . As would be revealed in this section we would find that procurement can no longer be visualised as an isolated entity but has to be strongly viewed as an inherent and integral part of the process of company operations. The historical development of procurement would add on a chronological dimension to understand the growing importance of procurement over the past decades . In the early 1970s, Ansoff, opined that the purchasing process played a passive role in the business organization and did not have any strategic role. (Ellram and Carr, 1994). The 1973-74 oil crisis and related raw materials shortages drew significant attention to the importance of purchasing. However, top management and purchasing professionals, did not react to enhance the role of purchasing in corporate strategy until when Porter came with his famous five force model that shape the competitive nature of industry, identified buyers and suppliers as two of the five critical forces. Thus, the strategic importance of the supplier and the firm as a buying entity began receiving recognition in the mainstream strategy literature. (Ellram and Carr, 1994). Since then 1980s the attitude toward procurement was changes and evolving to a more strategic level. According to the procurement strategy council article, the procurements movement from a tactical to a more strategic role in corporate operations is predicated on a broader shift in corporate strategy. Before World War II, purchasing departments accounted for barely 20% of corporate expenditures. Today, purchasing departments are responsible for 50% to 70% of corporate expenditures. This explanation is supported by Monczka et al. First, that the role of purchasing is presently being reshaped in order to fit the modern economy. This is related to the increasing globalisation, technology development and changing consumer demands. Another conclusion, according to Monczka et al, is that purchasing must continue its integration with customers, information systems, operations etc. (Monczka et al, 2000) The following table shows a compilation of strategic and operation tasks carried out in the procurement function. Strategic Procurement Identify necessary capabilities to match the customers needs regarding flexibility, innovation, agility, quality, responsiveness, cost levels and price levels Assess ones own capabilities (Knowledge, technology, capacity, competence, long term importance, total cost) Assess supplier capabilities (knowledge, technology, capacity, competency, long term imprtance, total cost, type of market, localisation, and substitutability) Model cost drives for items purchased Model Single/ Multiple sourcing effect on total cost Model how supplier relationship affect total cost (cost benefit of engaging in a close supplier relationship) For close supplier relationships share information and knowledge and make relation-specific investments Procurement Process Identify needs Conduct market analysis Send out and expedite RFx Do Background review Negotiate contracts and select suppliers Purchase order fulfilment Monitor supplier performance Internal Tasks Analyse corporate spending Parts bundling Aggregated corporate expenditures Develop relationships with internal customers Reduce maverick buying and promote compliance Disseminating procurement relation information External Tasks Scan for innovations Monitor, disseminate and stimulate Develop new sources Foster external capabilities Source Strategic Procurement Council, 2001. Value Improvement (Value Based Procurement The Organisational Quintessential) Relevance : It is important for us to understand the concept behind value improvements or value based procurement . The fact that tangible and intangible values could be quantified to procurement products and services makes the study of procurement systems all the more interesting for definitive mathematical extrapolation of the relevant results. Value systems and the ability to attribute value systems makes the procurement operational systems multidimensional and unique . Furthermore this is a system which could be aptly applied for effecting improvements in procurement systems for SOM, therefore a thorough investigation of the relevant concept is deemed important for our investigation . To be successful in business, we need to satisfy our customer by providing them with something they perceive as value. Since we are dealing with internal customers and suppliers, the concept of value becomes vital, which is directly linked to customer satisfaction. High customer satisfaction means their needs are met at high level. The customers will be satisfied if the product or service provides them with value. The term ‘value is used in every day business language however it is often misused and misunderstood. The concept of value has many definitions (Zeithaml, 1988; Anderson et al., 1993; Monroe, 1990; Gale, 1994; Woodruff, 1997) but generally they are not distinct. Common themes throughout these definitions are that (Dumond, 2000): Customer value is linked to the use of a product or service, thereby removing it from personal values; Customer value is perceived by the customers rather than objectively determined by the seller; and Customer value typically involves a trade-off between what the customer receives (e.g. quality, benefits, worth) and what he or she gives up to acquire and use a product or service (e.g. price, sacrifices). The concept of value is important for this study since our purpose is to illustrate value improvement initiatives to enhance the current procurement system with Shell Oman Marketing. According to Hill (2005), value can be classified under two headings: Use Value: The properties and qualities that accomplish the function of service or product. Esteem value: the properties, features or attractiveness that causes people to want to own or use it. Value, therefore, consists of a combination of use and esteem properties related to the cost of providing them. However, the measure of value added is directly linked to customer satisfaction. The measurement of procurement activities based on traditional efficiency report, and short terms savings doesnt support value base procurement. In order to reflect shift in the focus in procurement activities, new measurement techniques must be target at those activates which reflect value to the stakeholder. (Butler, 1995). An interesting study conducted by Dumond (1994) about creating a value base procurement. Based on his finding, many firms the operating environment does not support value-based purchasing. Senior management plays a critical role in developing an environment that will support and encourage value-based purchasing, the following steps are recommended: Focus individual purchasers on customers needs and identify the value-adding processes Develop a performance measurement system that emphasizes quality, process improvement, and customer satisfaction Integrate purchasing into the firms communication system (elevate if needed) Educate-not only individual purchasers but also their customers. 2.4Value Analysis Framework To analysis value in a system, it will be useful to the use the value analysis procedure, which is discussed in Terry Hill book of Operation Management (2005). The steps involved are: Select the service or product Gather information about it Analysis its function and its value for money Generate alternative ways to provide the same function through speculation and brain-storming Assess the worth of these ideas. Decide what is to be done Implement the decisions Evaluate the result EFQM Excellence Model Relevance : EFQM system analysis is extremely important for our investigation because EFQM model based on European models of operational management and Quality management help us through an exhaustive interface between strategic inputs and outputs to measure the effectiveness of procurement systems and delve on the findings to derive adequate strengths and measures for any procurement operational system . Since our investigation is essentially based on finding the points of improvement in SOM and capitalising on the strengths an understanding of the relevant model is highly warranted for our investigation and proposed study . Moreover since EFQM model visualise the operational mechanics of procurement system from multidimensional angles it is imperative for us to investigate the mechanics of operation of EFQM model in sufficient details for finding the relevant applicability for our study under investigation . The European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) is widely discussed in the literature and many organizations have applied it as a tool for assessing all aspects of an organisations activities and results. According to EFQM, the model is intended to promote continuous improvement and is an aid to effective benchmarking. Excellence Model was introduced at the beginning of 1992 as the framework for assessing organisations for the European Quality Award. Now it became the most widely used organisational framework in Europe and considered as the basis for the majority of national and regional Quality Awards. 2.4.2Benefit of EFQM The EFQM Excellence Model  is a  business model tool  that can be applied in many different ways: As a business model for being able to assess independently the competency of the organization by the organisation itself. As a measure to benchmark other organisational functioning and strategy. As an improvement tool for highlighting areas to improve. As a common denominator, standard measurement scale or a common vocabulary. As a structural guide for the management of any organisation. The fundamentals of the EFQM Excellence model are based on nine criterions which are cannot be prescribed and such are practical in nature and application. Five of these are Enablers and four are Results. What a particular organisation does, those factors qualify as ‘Enablers†. The achievement of an organisation qualifies as the Results Criterion. Results are caused by Enablers and Enablers are improved using feedback from Results. Excellent results with respect to Performance, Customers, People and Society are achieved through Leadership driving Policy and Strategy that is delivered through People, Partnerships and Resources, and Processes. (Procurement modelling-a discussion, Harvard Review Press, 1996) The Fundamental Concept of EFQM Excellence Model are: Results Orientation Every organisation should look for the outcome of â€Å"enablers† to delight customers. . Customer Focus Excellence is creating sustainable customer value. Leadership and Constancy of Purpose Excellence is visionary backed by inspirational leadership, with constancy of purpose. . Management by Processes and Facts Excellence is managing the organisation through a set of interdependent and interrelated systems, processes and facts. People Development and Involvement Excellence is maximising employee contribution through employee development and involvement. Continuous Learning, Innovation and Improvement Excellence is challenging the status quo and bringing change by learning and innovation. Partnership Development Excellence is developing and maintaining value-adding partnerships. Corporate Social Responsibility Excellence is exceeding the minimum regulatory framework in which the organisation operates and to strive to understand and respond to the expectati ons of their stakeholders in society (Harvard Review Press, 1996) 2.5 Procurement Value Improvement Framework (The Shell Oman perspective) The structure of literature is in line with the value analysis framework. First, we identified the service we want to investigate, which procurement activities in Shell Oman Marketing. Secondly, we provided information about the procurement function in Shell Oman and its structure. Thirdly, we use Soft System Methodology (SSM), which is strong in analyzing a holistic situation and capture qualitative data. The SSM will only be used to develop understanding of the challenges exist in the current system. Unstructured Interview is strong in determine many qualities aspect which will be useful in revealing out issues and problems that other method of research can meet this object effectively. Therefore, to get different perception, it will be useful to carry out a survey through an interview with five key internal business stakeholders to analysis the strength and weakness of current contract and procurement activities. Fourthly, we dig in the literature and journals to search for ways o f adding value improvement to procurement function. Plus, interviews with two large companies in similar field to identifying the industry best practice in procurement function. Fifthly, an analysis of all the procurement best practices generated from above stage, which will be discussed in chapter 4 in detail. Sixthly, in chapter 5, based on the analysis, we will recommend the way forward. Unfortunately, this research will be limited at the recommendation stage and will not have the opportunity to implement and evaluation the result. 2.6The Purchasing Maturity (Organisational Stratagem) We can observe that the purchasing role in providing added value has evolved and has been modified along with the importance and the place taken by purchasing in organizations. In figure 3 the main values added by purchasing are related to each of the evolution stages towards purchasing maturity (van Weele, 1998). In the first stage the main value added by purchasing is by assuring the continuity of the supply. In the second stage the already purchased items have an increased importance in companys costing cost structure. The role of purchasing then left is to minimize material costs and improve /up the bottom line. Stage 3 would center on co-ordination between various departments .The main values added by purchasing are greater compliance with pre-negotiated contracts, uniform buying policies and systems and capturing the benefits from internal co-ordination. The next stage lays stress on use of inter-functional teams and the reduction pf the total systems costs satisfaction of the internal customer seems to be the main focus of purchasing then. The supply orientation stage envisages the selection of suppliers on strategic company guidelines, requirements, long-term relationships design, supplier network management and early involvement in the new product development process. In the final s tage the main goal is to design the most effective and efficient value chain possible to serve the end customer. This last stage is characterized by an extensive use of cross- functional supplier development teams and a close collaboration on advance technology with suppliers. (Telgen Sitar, 2001) 2.7 Categories of Value Added Procurement The literature review highlights five main categories of value added procurement which are representative and important for every organization: Better contracts Improved purchasing efficiency Customer satisfaction (improved quality and service) Closer and more cooperative relationships with suppliers Reduced costs, improved quality and increased time to market resulting from an early involvement of the purchasing department in the new product development process (NPD). The first four categories of values added are based on Leenders and Schiele (1999). Basically, the researcher took one aspect from each of the above categories of value added. The role of the purchasing department should be considered from all possible angles and viewpoints. There is an increasing contribution of the purchasing department in the new process development in todays organisations, with specific and special interests in -the contribution of the purchasing department in the areas of quality, cost and time to market resulting from an early involvement of the purchasing department in the NPD process. The Resource Based View of Procurement Relevance : The analysis of this model for procurement is important for adding diversity to our investigation of procurement systems and their mechanics . Resource based view of procurement is one of the important views for procurement practices from the global perspective especially from the point of view of competing firms in highly dense and competitive markets , where because of oligopoly of procurement practising firms each firm would have to build a set of unique identifiable resources to capitalise on a

A Tale of Two Cities Essay :: essays papers

A Tale of Two Cities Essay Throughout history, the powers of love and hate have constantly been engaged in a battle for superiority. Time and time again, love has proven to be stronger than hate, and has been able to overcome all of the obstacles that have stood in the way from it reaching its goal. On certain occasions, though, hate has been a viable foe and defeated love when they have clashed. In the novel A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens presents several different power struggles between love and hate. One of the more famous power struggles takes place between Miss Pross and Madame Defarge, towards the end of the novel. When Madame Defarge, who because of her evil nature and devilish appearance is compared to "the wife of Lucifer", appears at the Manettes' residence to accuse the remaining members of the household of ridiculous crimes, she is confronted by Miss Pross. The result is a struggle between these two magnificent women, who are complete opposites of each other: "It was in vain for Madame Defarge to struggle and to strike; Miss Pross, with the vigorous tenacity of love, always so much stronger than hate, clasped her tight†¦" (p. 360). Miss Pross loves Lucie with all her heart and would never allow any harm to come to her. Madame Defarge, on the other hand, does not just hate Lucie, but she hates the Manettes and all Evremondes. One would think that such a strongly fueled hatred would permit Madame Defarge to overpower Miss Pross, but, as the reader finds out, Miss Pross' determination to keep her darling "Ladybird" safe, from any harm that might come to her or her family, allows her to overpower and kill her enemy. This time, the power of good overcomes the power of evil due to Miss Pross' true love and dedication for Lucie. Another struggle between love and hate can be found within Monsieur Defarge. In this particular case, it is evil that eventually triumphs. Monsieur Defarge can be considered a true revolutionary, as his actions prove throughout the novel: "†¦ and still Defarge of the wine - shop at his gun, grown doubly hot by the service of four fierce hours" (p. 215). Monsieur Defarge tirelessly works alongside his fellow revolutionaries to defeat the aristocracy that has treated his countrymen so harshly. A Tale of Two Cities Essay :: essays papers A Tale of Two Cities Essay Throughout history, the powers of love and hate have constantly been engaged in a battle for superiority. Time and time again, love has proven to be stronger than hate, and has been able to overcome all of the obstacles that have stood in the way from it reaching its goal. On certain occasions, though, hate has been a viable foe and defeated love when they have clashed. In the novel A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens presents several different power struggles between love and hate. One of the more famous power struggles takes place between Miss Pross and Madame Defarge, towards the end of the novel. When Madame Defarge, who because of her evil nature and devilish appearance is compared to "the wife of Lucifer", appears at the Manettes' residence to accuse the remaining members of the household of ridiculous crimes, she is confronted by Miss Pross. The result is a struggle between these two magnificent women, who are complete opposites of each other: "It was in vain for Madame Defarge to struggle and to strike; Miss Pross, with the vigorous tenacity of love, always so much stronger than hate, clasped her tight†¦" (p. 360). Miss Pross loves Lucie with all her heart and would never allow any harm to come to her. Madame Defarge, on the other hand, does not just hate Lucie, but she hates the Manettes and all Evremondes. One would think that such a strongly fueled hatred would permit Madame Defarge to overpower Miss Pross, but, as the reader finds out, Miss Pross' determination to keep her darling "Ladybird" safe, from any harm that might come to her or her family, allows her to overpower and kill her enemy. This time, the power of good overcomes the power of evil due to Miss Pross' true love and dedication for Lucie. Another struggle between love and hate can be found within Monsieur Defarge. In this particular case, it is evil that eventually triumphs. Monsieur Defarge can be considered a true revolutionary, as his actions prove throughout the novel: "†¦ and still Defarge of the wine - shop at his gun, grown doubly hot by the service of four fierce hours" (p. 215). Monsieur Defarge tirelessly works alongside his fellow revolutionaries to defeat the aristocracy that has treated his countrymen so harshly.

Unattainable Perfection

The expression â€Å"I am only human† is a phrase coined by people in order to blame their faults on humanity. The question many philosophers have asked is if perfection is attainable. In his short stories, â€Å"The Birthmark,† â€Å"The Minister and the Black Veil,† and â€Å"The Gray Champion,† Nathaniel Hawthorne illustrates the human condition as one of human imperfection and sin that can be destructive if not controlled. Hawthorne effectively portrays what can happen if an individual is not monitored by society in his stories. He emphasizes the role of the individual in the society and the limitations that the society must place on that individual. Using symbolism, characterization, and paradoxes, Hawthorne emphasizes humankind’s faults and their imperative role in the character of all men. Most importantly, he emphasizes that perfection and the cleansing of all sin is not possible. Hawthorne uses symbols and extended allegories to elucidate the true nature of human attributes. â€Å"The Birthmark† is a story about an obsessive scientist name Aylmer who strives to prefect his wife. The predominate symbol in this story is the birthmark on his, other wise perfect, wife: a mark of â€Å"deeper crimson, which imperfectly defined its shape† (Hawthorne148). This mark is identified very closely with Georgiana, Aylmer’s wife, because it changes with her emotions and motions. This suggests that Georgiana does not merely have an imperfection embedded in her skin, but that she is imperfection embodied. Hawthorne specifically marked Georgiana as an imperfection because she is a woman, tainted with sin from the dawn of Adam and Eve (Fetterley 3). Because all of mankind is Eve’s children, this mark is â€Å"the fatal flaw of humanity which Nature†¦stamps ineffaceably on all her productions† (Hawthorne 149). Hawthorne thus emphasizes that men are supposed to be imperfect in comparison to pristine and refined nature. Therefore, humans should look upon nature as a role model so that they can be as close to perfect as possible. This is what Aylmer does as he attempts to perfect the flower he shows Georgiana. However, he does this is a frenetic, destructive way which is his flaw and proves that not only women are imperfect. His elusive goal is evident when, at first, the flower is perfect, but then the â€Å"whole plant suffer[s] a blight, its leaves turning coal-black as if by the agency of the fire† (Hawthorne 155). The moral is that humans should not meddle with nature because nature is already perfect: Hawthorne’s unique way of expressing a â€Å"universal sympathy with Nature† (Longfellow 1). The parallel result of Georgiana dying after achieving perfection represents that the perfection of man goes against nature. Mr. Hooper’s veil in the â€Å"Minister and the Black Veil† is also an example of human lubricity. This veil covers the majority of his face, and does not â€Å"intercept his sight, further than to give a darkened aspect to all living and unanimated things† (Hawthorne 10). The Black Veil represents the sin that he has committed and the facade that he chooses to hide it behind. However, it also shields him from the sin of his entire community (Emmett 1). His own sin has allowed his vision to see things in â€Å"a darkened aspect† so as to see that everyone has his own dark secrets (10). He realizes that although everyone professes to be pure, their entire life is a front to hide their true selves: their imperfect selves. If each individual and the society they make up is imperfect as stated in the â€Å"Minister and the Black Veil,† then so is a country made of humankind. As America was the first country formed from the true aspirations of mankind, it is destined for corruption. This is why Hawthorne has created the symbol of â€Å"The Gray Champion†. Representing a â€Å"type of New England’s hereditary spirit, and his shadowy march, on the Eve of danger,† this champion is the guardian angel of the country: the faith that has founded and developed the nation (Hawthorne 9). Although Hawthorne specifically speaks of protection from war and enemies, inner corruption also looms. The individual flaws of its citizens can eat at a country from within without religion and a faith in God to keep them on a righteous path. Hawthorne’s characterization allows the reader to understand the state of mind and decisions of his characters. This, in turn, helps establish the weaknesses that they have that make them human. Although the character with the apparent imperfection in the â€Å"Birthmark† is Georgiana, it is Aylmer that best depicts the human condition. He is said to represent â€Å"a type of spiritual element† and yet Georgiana observes that â€Å"he handles physical details as if there were nothing beyond them, yet spiritualized them all and redeemed himself from materialism† (Hawthorne 153). This suggests that while Aylmer considers him a man of science, it is the supernatural and abstract things that he is experimenting with. His â€Å"faith in man’s ultimate control over nature† is his tragic flaw (Hawthorne 148). Killing his wife in the pursuit of an impossible goal is an example of an individual not being checked by the natural flow of the society. By making this vice so evident, Hawthorne reveals that ultimately, everyone’s faults are obvious. With this blunt style, Hawthorne fights against the ambiguous nature of humans. Father Hooper is likewise flawed, but his uncleanliness is even more apparent. His obvious flaw is his secret sin that involves his association with a recently deceased young lady. The community respects him, but also fears him to the point that â€Å"their instinctive dread causes him to feel more strongly than aught else† (Hawthorne 19). Consequently, the respect and responsibility he bares from the society, the hatred of himself, and his understanding that everyone and â€Å"the Earth, too, [has] on her Black Veil,† forces the reader to sympathize with him (20). In Poe’s words, it â€Å"smothers the sin† (2). By creating sympathy for his character, Hawthorne clearly expresses that sins should be pardoned because they are human nature. He conveys that humans should accept their condition. Although the Gray Champion is an allegory, he too has characterization. He is a â€Å"shadowy march† and â€Å"follows darkness, and adversity, and peril† (Hawthorne 9). Although he is the hero and protector that the country needs, he must be darkness to face the malfeasance that is present in battle. Thus, human kind must be willing to accept their impurities in order to face the evil that is found in the world. The small amount of sin and evil they posses, can protect men from evil because those that are all good are innocent and naive. Because Hawthorne creates forgivable characters who are clearly â€Å"only human†, it is clear that he believes that people do have some good in them and should strive to express this instead of absolute perfection. The paradox is a statement that is both true and untrue. Hawthorne viewed human nature as a stream of paradoxes that seems incompatible, but is the base of humanity. Ergo, he uses contradictory words and characters throughout his stories. Perfection is an element that is judged differently by different individuals. One common perception is that, despite the phrase â€Å"practice makes perfect†, no one is perfect. This is a key theme in the story â€Å"The Birthmark† where Georgiana is described as â€Å"so nearly perfect from the hand of Nature that this slightest possible defect (the birthmark), which we hesitate whether to term a defect or a beauty [is] †¦ the visible mark of earthly imperfection† (Hawthorne 148). Illustrating that humanity craves for perfection; this quote exemplifies how imperfection highlights perfection. This is why one rejoices when others do poorly (so they can stand out as extraordinary). The birthmark can be both beautiful and imperfect because there is a small difference between perfection and imperfection. Humans are imperfect beings that can harm themselves when striving for perfection, an abstract and indefinable concept. The minister grows sad and frustrated in the â€Å"Minister and the Black Veil,† when â€Å"children flee from his approach† and he is deemed an â€Å"irreparable bugbear† (Hawthorne 19). This becomes paradoxical because, as the minister, he still retains the respect of the society. The community is to be criticized for being judgmental without true fact, but Hawthorne indubitably accepts this as an inescapable component of human nature. Humans easily judge their peers based on fickle allegation and slander. This is why the media in our time is so destructive. While this is most definitely one of our greatest flaws, it also helps us protect ourselves from dangerous individuals that, from Hawthorne’s point of view, need to be controlled by their society. In â€Å"The Gray Champion,† Hawthorne described the soldiers as â€Å"solemn, [but with a] warlike peale of †¦voice, fit either to rule a host in the battlefield or be raised to God in prayer,† a contradictory statement (Hawthorne. 5). This behavior can be compared to how people can be so full of faith yet so violent and how religions can preach peace and compassion, but declare war on each other. These are the many great paradoxes of human kind. The truth is that both faith and violence are instincts of human nature( the former to compensate for death and the latter to defend oneself or obtain what is wanted or needed) This is ironic because without violence, there would not be so much death. It is a good thing that these components are â€Å"deeply meshed in the texture of human experience† (Arvin xv). Without the paradox of human nature, the entire world would be off balanced with too much evil, or too much good. Without one, the other can not be distinguished. Humans have one thing in common with each other: our imperfect and sinful nature. Hawthorne’s purpose is to force readers to see this as he did in his â€Å"observation journals† (Hilton 2). He believed that once this is acknowledged, people can succeed without pretending to be pure or punishing themselves for their nature. Society should instead concentrate on restricting the dark part of humanity. In his stories, Hawthorne creates symbols, characters, and paradoxes that represent the complex state of the human condition. He clarifies that perfection is not attainable, but that perfection of human nature is not essential for mankind to thrive and be good.

Yvain

Yvain or The Knight with the Lion: The Introduction of Literary Strengths There are few novels today that possess the adventure which takes place throughout Yvain (aka The Knight with the Lion). Chretien’s use of structure in this poem has surely influenced the modern day novel. Yvain was one of the first books to introduce the genre of Chivalric Romance, which many authors still mimic today. The genre capturing this tale clearly defined literature thereafter and was the beginning of a new era in story-telling. In Northrop Frye’s definition of modes, we can see that this poem is clearly in â€Å"Romance Mode†.In the concept of modes, Frye identifies literary works to be classified by the hero’s power of action. By distinction of any novels’ hero, the audience can discern whether the main character or hero has powers greater, less, or roughly the same as the audience’s. The romance mode is the second mode of Frye’s distinction. In this poem, the hero of the story is human, but is certainly superior to normal humans; it is a story in which the hero has marvelous strengths and powers of endurance. The setting of the story may also slightly suspend the laws of nature in a way that allows magical things to happen.As Frye says, this is the world of legends, folk tales, and fairy tales. In this novel, the main character Yvain portrays the essence of these qualities. Yvain has many instances throughout the poem, in which he miraculously overcomes obstacles. There was not one event in which he lost against another knight or creature. The fact that Yvain intruded on a fight between a lion and a snake, is in itself, marvelous. No human in real life, would risk their life for this situation. In this scene, as Yvain chose to slay the snake by chopping it into pieces, and the lion shows a sense of gratefulness. The Lion rose on his hind feet and joined his forepaws in complete submissiveness and then he spread his forepaws out and bowed his head in great humility (pg 95). † It was after this point that they became companions, and the lion would never leave his side. This scene illustrates the Romance mode as the basic laws of nature are slightly obstructed by the lion’s ability to express feelings. Taking a closer look, we can discern the subcategory of this romance mode to be chivalric and contain courtly love. The entire story is full of many events in which even Chretien noted as chivalric.These consist of the knightly values of courage and loyalty as well as extreme respectfulness to others, especially women. In these civilized times, the royalty- living in castles and employing warriors- created these rules of combat and courtly manners that knights should carry out. It was the main goal for every knight to perform the good deeds, because it was the honorable thing to do, not because its adventure was of interest. In the poem, Calogrenant went in search for a marvel to entertain himself with adventure.But when this lead to disaster, Yvain had to stand by his side because they were cousins, and blood relatives were not to be abandoned. Yvain went out in hopes to avenge his cousin Calogrenant, â€Å"The lord did not sit down or pause; he poured some water on the great green stone. The storm came, just as he had known (pg 23). † Here, Yvain committed the same act that got Calogrenant in trouble, yet Yvain did not commit this act in hopes of a marvel, but rather to hold honor because it was the right thing to do for his family.This act reinforced Yvain’s knightly duties, furthering his intent to be chivalrous. Instrumental for the configuration of any chivalric identity in a medieval romance, this genre entices the male audience with its tales of lone adventuring, jousting with common men, killing beasts, rescuing virgins, and fighting in fateful battles. It also introduces a new side (in the medieval time period) to male and female relations, fascinatin g the idea of courtly love. The behavior of courtly love was a social phase that society engaged during the time of the poem.It was the idea that love was a service that gentlemen carried out for their women. It also reflected the principle that men and women could have conversation, and â€Å"flirt†. One could even fall in love at first sight by a physical process: in through the eyes, and passing down to the heart, and from there taking over the entire body as though captured by love’s poison. In the poem, the audience sees Yvain express his feelings through courtly love. â€Å"A new Love sweetens him with sugar and honey. Love, at whim, has hunted in her lands today, and now she gathers in her prey.His enemy has his heart (pg 38). † By this quote, we see that the force of love is overpowering, and Yvain is the â€Å"prey† wounded by love, because this woman, whose husband he has killed, now has his heart. When Yvain was published, society had just rece ntly become civilized, as opposed to their previously barbaric state. People were becoming accustomed to mannerism and sense of ruling. In the poem, we see a little of both sides of this society. In most of the story, Yvain and his surroundings are civilized, he is a proper knight and he is carrying out duties of society in a refined way.But when Laudine brought shame upon him for breaking his promise to her, we see Yvain turn to the opposite of civilized society. Yvain became so ashamed of himself he turned to a barbaric state of society, â€Å"a whirlwind broke loose in his brain, so violent that he went insane, and clawed himself, tore off his clothes and fled across the fields and rows (pg 79). † By entering the forest in this manner, Yvain indicated his complete abandonment of everything his aristocratic culture stood for—he no longer takes the part of a husband, or even a knight, but merely a wild animal.The entire poem is composed with many individual stories. W hat made this poem such an inspiration for the future genre was its completeness. Like Aristotle mentioned, a good story must have a beginning, middle and an end. Yvain, is compiled with many intricate stories chronologically placed, perfect and large enough for one to remember them all. The uniqueness of the Chivalric Romance genre had great influence on subsequent literature, but presenting three definite parts in the story is why Yvain or The Knight with the Lion became so renowned.

rival trade comparison essays

rival trade comparison essays The German-Great Britain trade rivalry like the U.S.-Japan trade rivalry involved a rising power cutting into the trade of an already dominant trading power. There were several causes of the German-Great Britain trade rivalry according to Hoffman. The first was German's industry's zeal in procuring new contracts and expanding markets. They did this by fulfilling contracts even if they were very small and constantly trying to stay up with market demand. Second, Germans had a knowledge of languages that the English firms lacked. Third, German industry was aided by their government. In contrast Great Britain did not even supply consular assistance in helping develop markets in British colonies. Fourth, British trade was hurt by the conservatism of British manufacturers who were unwilling to develop new markets or hold onto those it already possessed. These four factors are just some of the factors that helped German industry grow and rival that of Great Britain. These four factors are all very similar to the Japan-U.S. trade rivalry. Japan like Germany was able to catch up to the U.S. because the U.S. was large and arrogant and refused to believe it could face competition from Japan. Like Britain, U.S. industry believed that they could hold onto markets and would not face competition. British and U.S. industry were startled by the fast rate of growth and industrialization that allowed Germany and Japan to transform themselves quickly into trading rivals. This fast rate of growth also caused friction between both sets of countries. Relations between Germany and Great Britain were damaged as they bickered over markets in particular colonies in Africa . This is similar to the friction between the U.S. and Japan unfair trading practices and Both the U.S. and Great Britain in response to losing markets ...

Postwar father essays

Postwar father essays The postwar father was a central participant in a wide assortment of family leisure activites. The periods increased time and empahis upon, leisure fit in with longer term changes in ideologies of fatherhood. The "new father" took more interest in matters of daily family life, including leisure orientated child care and sex education of sons and daughters. These developments did not change mens position as breadwinners, but expanded their realm into domestic areas. It is with the additional leisure time that he becomes exposed to and absorbs the barbecuing commercial speech. At this time there is no language available to reconize the male contrbution to domestic production. So men's gardening, hunting, and alcohol manufacturing were said to be hobbies. (Example Suzanne Morton's comments). Since the fathers role was the breadwinner and the women's role was primarily housekeeping. How would it be that barbecuing could be conceived as masculine, an activity matching one that is held in the kitchen by a women. Could outdoor cooking be protrayed as a hobby. Thomas Walsh, "suggested a genetic link between masculinity and the outdoors as the reason for mens pro-clivty to put up the barbecue tongs. Barbecue And Outdoor Cooking went out of it's way to note that grilling was "an old age method of preparing meat". Others contrasted cooking in a modern cooking, barbecuing harkened back to an earlier time. Tom Riley, author of " How to Build Your Outdoor Kitchen", felt the bustle of modern life explained men's barbecuing. The barbecuing represented a brief retreat from modern life and , presumably, modern gender roles. In order to sell barbecues and barbecue products advertisers had to position the product and the event as a very masculine event. The advertisers had to portray the product and disassociate it from the kitchen. Catalogues were used to portray the product as a direct relationship between the meat, barbecuing, ...

Common Characteristics of the New England Colonies

Common Characteristics of the New England Colonies The North American colonies that were settled by the English are often divided into three different groups: the New England colonies, the Middle colonies, and the Southern colonies. The New England colonies consisted of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. These colonies shared many common characteristics that helped define the region. The following is a look at these key characteristics. Physical Characteristics of New England All of the New England colonies had been covered by ice during the last Ice Age, which created poor, rocky soil. The final melt-back of the glaciers left some of the rocky areas peppered with large boulders.Rivers are fairly short and their floodplains are narrow, unlike in other areas of America, and do not allow for the creation of huge agricultural plots along their banks.The major resources available and used by the colonists were lumber and fish. The People of New England The New England region was an area of mostly homogeneous culture, mostly settled by large groups of people from England who were fleeing religious persecution or seeking new opportunities.The New England colonists settled in towns, typically surrounded by 40 square miles of land that were farmed by the individuals who lived in the towns.Indigenous Native American groups such as the Pequot in Connecticut were involved in extensive trading with the Dutch, but the situation became tense when the English started arriving in the 1630s. Britain launched the Pequot War in 1636–1637, after which many Pequot were executed and many survivors were sold into slavery in the Caribbean. In 1666 and 1683, Connecticut colony built two reservations for the remaining Pequot. Major Occupations in New England Agriculture:  Farms surrounding the farms were not terribly fertile. As a group, the farmers brought a high degree of mechanical ingenuity and self-sufficiency.Fishing:  Boston began exporting fish in 1633. In 1639, Massachusetts Bay was exempted from paying taxes on fishing boats; and as a result, by 1700, the fishing industry was huge. The colonists obtained crustaceans and pelagic fish from saltwater bays and freshwater rivers, and Pilgrim fathers also hunted right whales off Cape Cod.Commerce:  Individuals from the New England area were heavily involved in commerce. Extensive trade with England allowed ship holders to flourish, and the New Englanders also maintained lucrative trade connections with the West Indies and French colonies to the north. New England Religion Calvinism and the Social Contract Theory: Many individuals who lived in the New England area were Calvinists or heavily influenced by John Calvins works and thought. While many look at John Locke as the primary founder of the idea of the social contract (which defined proper government as an agreement or contract between the individuals to join together into a society), the Calvinist doctrine was one of the first to espouse the idea in England. The fact that many New England settlers followed the religious doctrines of John Calvin meant that this theory was part of their religious heritage. Further, this belief in the importance of social contracts transferred to economic contracts as well.A Belief in Predestination:  One of the tenets of Calvinism is the idea of predestination. This was the belief that God had already predetermined everything, including who was going to heaven and who to hell. The idea that God had chosen the British colonies for a special destiny  to take the N orth American continent and develop and maintain an ideal of liberty and democracy later fed into 19th century manifest destiny. Congregationalism:  This style of religion means that the church itself was governed by its own members, and the congregation chose its own minister, rather than being assigned one by a hierarchy.Intolerance:  While the Puritans might have escaped England due to religious persecution, they did not come to America to establish religious freedom for all. They wanted to be free to worship the way they wished. In Massachusetts Bay colony, people who did not subscribe to the colony religion were not allowed to vote, and nonconformists such as Anne Hutchinson and Roger Williams were excommunicated from the church and banished from the colony. The Spread of the New England Population The small towns only lasted a few years, as the populations outgrew the 40-acre supporting fields. That resulted in the rapid increase of many new small towns: instead of having a few large metropolises, New England was dotted with many smaller towns that were established by breakaway groups. This low-intensity settlement pattern lasted until the 1790s when a transition to commercial agriculture and small-scale industry began. In essence, during its first few decades, New England was an area that had been founded by a fairly homogeneous population, most of whom shared common religious beliefs. Because the region lacked huge tracts of fertile land, the area turned to commerce and fishing as their main occupations, though individuals within towns still worked small plots of land in the surrounding area. Slavery did not become an economic necessity in New England, as it grew to be in the Southern colonies. This turn to commerce would have a major impact many years later after the founding of the United States when questions of states rights and slavery were being discussed. Sources and Further Reading Carroll, Charles F. The Timber Economy of Puritan New England. Providence: Brown University Press, 1973.Foster, David R. Land-Use History (1730-1990) and Vegetation Dynamics in Central New England, USA. Journal of Ecology 80.4 (1992): 753–71.Foster, David R., Glenn Motzkin, and Benjamin Slater. Land-Use History as Long-Term Broad-Scale Disturbance: Regional Forest Dynamics in Central New England. Ecosystems 1.1 (1998): 96–119.Scott, Donald M. The Religious Origins of Manifest Destiny. Divining America: Religion in American History. National Humanities Center.  Silliman, Stephen W. Change and Continuity, Practice and Memory: Native American Persistence in Colonial New England. American Antiquity 74.2 (2009): 211–30.Stout, Harry S. The New England Soul: Preaching and Religious Culture in Colonial New England. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2012.  Yankee Whaling. New Bedford Whaling Museum, 2016.

Computer Aided Manufacturing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Computer Aided Manufacturing - Essay Example The automation of machine tools using CAM can be used both in the production of small batches and large batches each of them offering its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The CAM Process The CAM process uses the same set of tools except that the computer applications have been linked to the manufacturing process to automate it fully. CAM is used extensively in NC, CNC machines. The NC system consists of the part program, MCU or machine unit and the tool. The machine control units have a number of degrees of freedom to facilitate better flexibility in construction. (Chris Voss, 1986) These include (i) Flexibility in tools used for locating purposes. Source: Singh N, 1996, CAM operations (ii) The different cutting speeds and the rate of feed of the product are also important contributions to the CAM (iii) The cooling pump also works in sync with the machining process and directs the cooling fluent very effectively to the work area. The control system in a NC (CAM) machine regul ates the actual work done during operations and by it effective system of feedback negates any error that might arise during the manufacturing operations. (Rao.P.N, 1998) This can be described using a simple diagram used below Singh N, 1996, Control system The diagram shows the spindle which holds the cutting tool. A number of stepper motors is located to provide motion in each direction. Reduction gears are in place to allow the motors to be driven at required speeds. A tacho-generator put in place also provides the rpm of the cutting tool. (Singh N, 1996) Using the optical encoder which has a high resolution of close to 3500/revolution it senses the location of the motors and generates a feedback regarding the amount of positive or negative error of the tool with respect to its position from the desired location. This feedback facilitates an output which adjusts the tool by the required amount thereby maintaining accuracy of the process. Apart from these, the other significant adv antages include (i) It offers a greater flexibility in design since minor changes can be incorporated in the design phase. (Singh N, 1996) (ii) The production is of a higher scale. (iii) Manufacturing Flexibility by re-routing product lines. (iv) The initial setup time or lead time is also greatly reduced. Advantages and Disadvantages of CAM in batch production 1. Production of small batches The advantages of using CAM in production of small batches is that (i) The amount of capital that needs to be invested initially is less. (ii) The manufacturer is given more time to work on the product and hence the software can be tinkered with to generate an optimum designed product. (Tanner J.P, 1991) Source: Rao.P.N, 1998, Yamazaki Mazak Corp having a 5-axis machining operation (iii) Meeting deadlines are relatively easy since the number of components manufactured is low in number. (iv) Although the initial investment for CAM is high, the production line can be stopped without any difficulty if the product is not working well in the market. The same CAM system can again be utilised to redesign the product. (Gardezi Syed et al, 2000) (v) Since a continuous line of products need not be generated, the production can be reduced during off season and picked up when there is demand or a custom made request for a particular product. (vi) It facilitates the incorporation of the Just in Time Technology (JIT) into the manufacturing process. This is a method that has

The People vs. the Profiteers by David Rose Essay

The People vs. the Profiteers by David Rose - Essay Example He works incessantly on the behalf of Americans, based in Orlando. Halliburton would be a company, as well as other private contractors, that are operating in Iraq, somehow using the money of the American tax payers. Grayson is fighting a battle against some of these private contractors, many of which are major companies such as Halliburton, plus an oil company that former Vice President Dick Cheney served as the chief executive officer for several years. However, another enemy that has jumped on board is the United States Department of Justice. While Grayson has worked in several cases where there was fraud, the Department of Justice stepped in his way when it came to trying to expose companies of fraud during the Iraq war. This is a political venture and a scandal. When considering political science in this nature, if the President or any members of his Cabinet, or Dick Cheney were aware of these things that were going on by using American money to operate business, then something should have been done. It was the administration lying to American taxpayers about where their tax money was going. It was not used to fight the war in Iraq, clothe children in the United States, help the poor or the elderly. Instead, it was money to help the rich become richer. Ironically during the war, Halliburton became very valuable with their stock jumping significantly from the start of the war to 2006. The CEO netted at least $30 million in compensation. What a crooked world we live in. As oil enthusiasts, Cheney and George W. Bush, of course they were going to help some of their buddies become more rich by operating in Iraq. One might say that it is rather coincidental that Cheney happened to be a former CEO of one of the companies in question. It seems as if it was no coincidence after all. The money was there and it was secretly slid over to these corporations. The Department of Justice is more than likely trying to step in to try to keep the scandal behind closed doors. It is similar to any other scandal that occurs on a national level that somehow ties to the administration. Nixon's expose with Watergate was one of the major blunders of that administration. This one is on a different scope entirely and affects millions. The article by Rose introduces the audience to one of Grayson's clients, Bud Conyers, just a middle aged man in Oklahoma who just so happened to be an independent contractor working in Iraq. He was a driver for company, Kellogg, Brown and Root, a major construction company. Prior to the war in Iraq, the Pentagon awarded money to restore the Iraqi oil industry and another that provides logistic support services to the American military. When Conyers was asked to repair a refrigerated truck in Baghdad, he found something that is jawdropping. While an engine is required to control the refrigeration from a truck, this one that had been out of operation for a couple of weeks of course would not be keeping anything inside of it cool and there seemed to be a rancid smell coming from it. Upon opening the refrigerated portion of the truck, Conyer saw pieces of a total of 15 dead Iraqis. The bodies had come from a mortuary unit of the United States mortuary sector. While it is not unusual for something like this to happen, it is clearly stated by governmental regulations that once a truck has been used to haul corpses, it can not ever again haul items for human consumption such as food or drink because of the possible diseases that could be

Cleopatra VII The Last Pharaoh of Egypt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cleopatra VII The Last Pharaoh of Egypt - Essay Example Her father requested that Cleopatra and his oldest son, Ptolemy XIII, become joint rulers, and made Rome the guardian of the Egyptian state (brother-sister marriages were common among members of the Egyptian ruling house). Cleopatra was one of six children born to Ptolemy the Flute Player, four girls and two boys. Both boys Ptolemy XIII and Ptolemy XIV didn't live past adolescence. They served as co-throne keepers with Cleopatra VII, as women were prohibited to rule by themselves. Cleopatra and her brother started a civil war between themselves, which resulted in her being forced into exile to Syria. Her sister Arsinoe accompanied her. In Syria, she raised an army and started back to Egypt to reclaim her throne. In 48 BC she was on the eastern frontier of Egypt with her newly acquired army preparing to attack her brother's army. This battle was never fought because Julius Caesar, who had arrived at Alexandria in pursuit of Pompey, and claimed his right to arbitrate Cleopatra and Ptolemy's dispute as the representative of Rome. When Pompey, fleeing the victorious Julius Caesar, arrived in Alexandria seeking sanctuary, Ptolemy had him murdered in order to ingratiate himself with Caesar. Caesar was so repelled by this treachery that he seized the Egyptian capital and imposed himself as arbiter between the rival claims of Ptolemy and Cleopatra. After a short war, Ptolemy XIII was killed and Caesar restored Cleopatra to her throne, with Ptolemy XIV as new co-ruler (Holbl 120-121). Cleopatra realized that in order to gain power she would have to remain on good terms with Rome and its leaders, so she successfully set out to seduce Caesar. Caesar wintered in Egypt in 48 BC-47 BC, and Cleopatra shored up her political advantage by becoming his lover. Egypt remained independent, but three Roman legions were left to protect it. Cleopatra's winter liaison with Caesar produced a son whom they named Ptolemy Caesar (nicknamed Caesarion, little Caesar). However, Caesar refused to make the boy his heir, naming his grand-nephew Octavian instead. Caesar and Cleopatra used each other to gain something, because he wanted to obtain money, and her main concern was gaining power. What had begun as a war between Cleopatra and Ptolemy XIII evolved into a war between Ptolemy XIII allied with Arsinoe, his sister, against Caesar, and became known as the Alexandrian War. Caesar read Aulete's (the flute player) will to Ptolemy and forced him to restore her to the throne. When Ptolemy XIII drowned in the Nile (mysterious, but no reference to her killing or having him killed), Caesar declared that Cleopatra should marry her other brother Ptolemy, then eleven years old, and rule as queen (Chauvaeau) in order to please the Alexanderians and the Egyptian priests. Cleopatra and Caesarion visited Rome between 46 BC and 44 BC and were present when Caesar was assassinated. Before or just after she returned to Egypt, Ptolemy XIV died mysteriously. It's believed that she poisoned him just before he would have reached the legal age at which he could be expected to participate in the government. His death was too opportune to be accidental, because after Caesar's death, her greatest political tie, she still had a tie to Rome,

Eom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Eom - Essay Example A very skilled financial advisor having significant success in advising high net worth individuals and corporate clients on investments. Over 6 years understanding in providing financial services and supporting clients in making well-versed decisions by showing them a range of options and helping them to assess the merits of diverse plans. Possessing in depth understanding of mortgages, loans, and venture strategies and efficient hard to customer-driven and sales-focused service. Having exceptional skills, able to work in a embattled situation, as an individual and also part of a team, and experienced at working to strict compliance requirements. Currently seeking a financial advisor position. Modules studied include: Economy; Marketing; Accounting; Organizational Behaviour; International business culture; Management Data Analysis; Consumer behaviour; Supply Chain and Operation Management; Entrepreneurship in a Global context. My position as a student studying higher national diploma in business management makes this an important issue for me  .I realized that most people and financial institutions used a certain form of investment that was of no value to the intuitions and clients. To them, this value was determined solely by whether something could be invested in other ways, whether something was marketable or not.   In contrast, the inventors seemed quite shy and hesitant to use anything more than technical language, approximately as if this was the only proof essential – as if no further clarification was needed This variation enforced me to replicate on the aims of this course how communication skills are not standard, but be different according to time and place. Like in the ‘Research Methodology’ model discussed in the initial lecture, these testimonial skills are the consequence of a form of

Erasmus and Machiavelli Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Erasmus and Machiavelli - Essay Example l prince in following the will of God: â€Å"though following Him is hard, not following Him is a sin.† Taking the Christian perspective, since God was the creator of the universe, he was then accordingly the source of all power. Since God was the source of all power, following the will of God would most assuredly brought his concept of a prince the most power. For surely, if a person were to ignore the will of God, then God would not protect that prince, or to the more extreme aspect of the situation, God would remove immoral princes from power. In the Christian view, since there was no way to avoid God or to avoid the consequences of ignoring the will of God, this would make the most appropriate way to gain power and to keep this power by merely following the will of God. According to Richard F. Hardin, â€Å"Erasmus thought it possible to dissuade kings and their subjects from the idolatry of power†1 Richard F. Hardin, â€Å"The Literary Conventions of Erasmusâ€⠄¢ Education of a Christian Prince,† Renaissance Quarterly, vol. 35, no. 2, (Summer 1982) p. 152.. They were to hold their power not for their own gains, but they were to try to improve upon the condition of mankind. Anyone in a position of power should attempt to do this, from a Christian perspective, and those who didn’t were guilty of â€Å"unmitigated tyranny.† Erasmus was not concerned with how useful this document turned out to be in the real world. What he hoped to accomplish in the end was to shape the way that the real world functioned. To many, though, this was viewed as â€Å"primitive and simplistic†2

Wealth and Inequality Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Wealth and Inequality - Essay Example Racial, ethnic, religious and professional rivalries and jealousies have augmented class discrimination, and haves and haves-not observe enormous gulf between them. Hence, taking apposite measures immediately for the eradication of continuously increasing socioeconomic abyss appears to be the need of the hour, which could be performed by including the suppressed and oppressed stratum of society in nation-building programs, so that the society could be protected from becoming the prey to the severe anguish, hatred and bloodshed among the citizens for the future years to come. Before the French revolution, ninety-nine percent of the French population died of hunger and starvation, while remaining one expired due to over digestion. (Mahajan, 2002: 21) Thus, the authorities should move swiftly in order to introduce and implement socioeconomic schemes for the uplift of the poor and down-trodden masses in order to avoid the revolution the world has already observed in the form of French Re volution 1789, Iranian Revolution of 1979, and several other rebellions and revolts. The Paper Wealth serves as one of the most significant social phenomena, which helps the people get involved into the odds and ends of life by purchasing the commodities of their needs and choice, as well as by selling different commodities or offering their services against the wealth in order to keep the wolf from the door on the one hand, and for leading a comfortable and respectable life in society on the other. Since every human is directly or indirectly connected with financial activities, and strives in pursuit of earning more and more money and pecuniary gains, wealth has always been of vital importance in everyday individual and collective life. All that is because of the very reality that wealth decides and determines the status and position of individuals in a social hierarchy; it is therefore people seek professional education and learn technical skills, on the basis of which they work f rom dawn to dusk in various occupations in order to make both ends meet. However, they do not obtain the same amount of wealth according to the proportion of the efforts they make. Wealth is distributed less equally than labor income, total money income or consumption expenditure. While Gina coefficients in developed countries typically range between about 0.3 and 0.4 for income, they vary from about 0.5 to 0.9 for wealth. (Davies & Shamrocks, 1998) Thus, distribution of wealth, resources and opportunities has always been unjust, unequal and unfair since the known history of the social establishment. Inequality of wealth and opportunities is not confined to developing countries only. On the contrary, the developed western states are also undergoing the same problem within their social establishment. Both income inequality and the poverty headcount have risen over the past two decades. The increase is fairly widespread, affecting two-thirds of all countries. Income inequality has ris en significantly since 2000 in Canada, Germany, Norway, the United States, Italy, and Finland, and declined in the United Kingdom, Mexico, Greece and Australia. (OECD, 2008) Taking the example of the US society, it becomes crystal clear that on the one side, the wealthiest business tycoons and entrepreneurs like Bill Gates, Sergey Brin, Larry Page, Sheldon Adelson and others are leading the affluent and luxurious life, and on the other side, one sixth of the total population is living under the UN determined poverty line. Not only this that all social classes have their valuable

Erasmus and Machiavelli Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Erasmus and Machiavelli - Essay Example l prince in following the will of God: â€Å"though following Him is hard, not following Him is a sin.† Taking the Christian perspective, since God was the creator of the universe, he was then accordingly the source of all power. Since God was the source of all power, following the will of God would most assuredly brought his concept of a prince the most power. For surely, if a person were to ignore the will of God, then God would not protect that prince, or to the more extreme aspect of the situation, God would remove immoral princes from power. In the Christian view, since there was no way to avoid God or to avoid the consequences of ignoring the will of God, this would make the most appropriate way to gain power and to keep this power by merely following the will of God. According to Richard F. Hardin, â€Å"Erasmus thought it possible to dissuade kings and their subjects from the idolatry of power†1 Richard F. Hardin, â€Å"The Literary Conventions of Erasmusâ€⠄¢ Education of a Christian Prince,† Renaissance Quarterly, vol. 35, no. 2, (Summer 1982) p. 152.. They were to hold their power not for their own gains, but they were to try to improve upon the condition of mankind. Anyone in a position of power should attempt to do this, from a Christian perspective, and those who didn’t were guilty of â€Å"unmitigated tyranny.† Erasmus was not concerned with how useful this document turned out to be in the real world. What he hoped to accomplish in the end was to shape the way that the real world functioned. To many, though, this was viewed as â€Å"primitive and simplistic†2

Weaknesses and Strengths of Nepolean as a Military Leader Research Paper

Weaknesses and Strengths of Nepolean as a Military Leader - Research Paper Example In this paper, we have made an effort to converge his strengths and weaknesses as a leader of his army and a warrior of repute. While skimming through his speeches, it is clearly revealed that he never tried to find a middle ground as a General and instructed his forces to act suitably even amidst serious crisis. Thus, dominance and bravery are two of the most important features of the force and power which made him a military leader. These characteristics also helped him to rise to fame in most of his military expeditions. The other quality that engraved his name in history and the reason for which he is being idolized often is his incessant ability to work for infinite hours and his rigid will to succeed. These features worked wonders and allowed him to inspire his army while laying siege in foreign nations. In one of his proclamations to the soldiers during the invasion in Italy, he said that the greatest qualities of a soldier are faithfulness and discipline and then comes bravery. The use of such words augments his traits as a warrior and the above-mentioned words as expressed by Napoleon unravel his br avery and daring attitude in full force as he said: â€Å"Soldiers : Behold your colors! These eagles will always be your rallying point†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Swear to sacrifice your lives to defend them, and by your courage to keep them constantly in the path of victory. Swear!†(Napoleon’s Addresses – 1804) As a matter of fact, he displayed his capacity to work for three to four days in a stretch without sleeping or resting. The violent and brutal approach adopted by him was undoubtedly the most appropriate qualities required for envisaging success. Therefore, Napoleon’s envision was victory and he devoted himself fully towards his job as a leader of the army that also enthralled his forces to execute their duties with equal devotion and sincerity. Besides this, his power of organization was marvelous, which can be deciphered from his work and

Comparison of Perfect and Imperfect Competition

Comparison of Perfect and Imperfect Competition INTRODUCTION The Father of Economics Adam Smith in his book â€Å" The Theory of Moral Sentiments†, wrote about the main characteristics of human beings. According to him a human being is very selfish or possesses self-love as well as there exists an invisible hand. The concept of self- love in human being is one of the most important factor in â€Å" the value theory† as well as in the development of market. [1] Generally a human being carries out economic activities till a point where he thinks that what I am paying is equal to what I am receiving, Human being willingly trade or carry out exchange till he feels that what I am giving is less and what I am receiving is more, once he realises that what I am giving is equal to what I am receiving, he will stop further trade. This is one of the most important philosophy of consumers and producers. Both the concept is based on selfish motives of maximising returns in terms of their efforts that is money. Since an economy consists of various economic agents with diverse interests, allocating resources optimally becomes an intricate task. Economic planners have two mutually opposing means to solve this allocation problem: planning versus competition. Which avenue will be adopted by the planners depends crucially on their value judgments. WHAT IS A MARKET? â€Å"Originally† says Jevons, : a market was a public place in a town where provisions and other objects were exposed for sale; but the world has been generalised so as to mean any body of persons who are in intimate business relations and carry on extensive transactions in any commodity. In the words of Cournot, a French economist, â€Å"Economics understand by the term market not any particular market placec in which things are bought and sold but the whole of any region in which buyers and sellers are in such free intercourse with one another that the price of the same goods tends to equality easily and quickly.† Thus, the essentials of market are: A commodity which is dealt with. The existence of buyers and sellers A place, be it certain region, country or entire world. Such intercourse between buyers and sellers that only one price should prevail for the same commodity at the same time. PERFECT COMPETITION Perfect competition is a theoretical market structure. Perfect competition is the world of price-takers. A perfectly competitive firm sells a homogenous product. It is so small relative to its market that it cannot affect the market price; it simply takes the price as give. Under perfect competition, there are many buyers and sellers, and prices reflect supply and demand. Also, consumers have many substitutes if the good or service they wish to buy becomes too expensive or its quality begins to fall short. New firms can easily enter the market, generating additional competition. Companies earn just enough profit to stay in business and no more, because if they were to earn excess profits, other companies would enter the market and drive profits back down to the bare minimum. Real-world competition differs from the textbook model of perfect competition in many ways. Real companies try to make their products different from those of their competitors. They advertise to try to gain market share. They cut prices to try to take customers away from other firms. They raise prices in the hope of increasing profits. And some firms are large enough to affect market prices. But the perfect competition model is not an ideal that we should try to achieve in the real world. Features of Perfect Competition There are many small firms, each producing an identical product . Each too small to effect the market price. The perfect competitior faces a completely horizontal demand curve. The extra revenue gained from each extra unit sold is therefore the market price. Freedom of Entry and Exit; this will require low sunk costs.[2] Diagram for Perfect Competition These factors are unrealistic in the real world. However Perfect Competition is as important economic model to compare other models. It is often argued that competitive markets have many benefits which stem from this theoretical model. In the Industry price is determined by the interaction of Supply and Demand. The firm will maximise output where MR = MC at Q1 In the Long Run Firms will make Normal profits. If Supernormal profits are made new firms will be attracted into the industry causing prices to fall. If firms are making a loss then firms will leave the industry causing price to rise.[3] Assumptions behind a Perfectly Competitive Market Many suppliers each with an insignificant share of the market – this means that each firm is too small relative to the overall market to affect price via a change in its own supply – each individual firm is assumed to be a price taker An identical output produced by each firm – in other words, the market supplies homogeneous or standardised products that are perfect substitutes for each other. Consumers perceive the products to be identical Consumers have perfect information about the prices all sellers in the market charge – so if some firms decide to charge a price higher than the ruling market price, there will be a large substitution effect away from this firm All firms (industry participants and new entrants) are assumed to have equal access to resources (technology, other factor inputs) and improvements in production technologies achieved by one firm can spill-over to all the other suppliers in the market. [4] IMPERFECT COMPETITION Imperfect competition is a competitive market situation where there are many sellers, but they are selling heterogeneous (dissimilar) goods as opposed to the perfect competitive market scenario. As the name suggests, competitive markets that are imperfect in nature. Imperfect competition is the real world competition. Today some of the industries and sellers follow it to earn surplus profits. In this market scenario, the seller enjoys the luxury of influencing the price in order to earn more profits. It prevails in an industry whenever individual sellers have some measure of control over the price of their output. Take the example of Coco-cola and perpsi together have the majpr share of the market, and imperfect competition clearly prevails. If a seller is selling a non-identical good in the market, then he can raise the prices and earn profits. High profits attract other sellers to enter the market and sellers, who are incurring losses, can very easily exit the market. The major types of imperfect competition are: monopoly, oligopoly and monopolistic competition. Monopolistic Competition: This market structure is characterized by a large number of relatively small competitors, each with a modest degree of market controlon the supply side. A key feature of monopolistic competition is product differentiation. The output of each producer is a close but not identical substitute to that of every other firm, which helps satisfy diverse consumer wants and needs. Oligopoly: This market structure is characterized by a small number of relatively large competitors, each with substantial market control. Oligopoly sellers exhibit interdependent decision making which can lead to intense competition among the few and the motivation to cooperate through mergers and collisions. Monopoly: Monopolies are thus characterized by a lack of economic  competition  to produce the  good  or  service  and a lack of viablesubstitute goods. Monopoly is an enterprise that is the only seller of a good or service. In the absence of government intervention, a monopoly is free to set any price it chooses and will usually set the price that yields the largest possible profit. Just being a monopoly need not make an enterprise more profitable than other enterprises that face competition, the market may be so small that it barely supports one enterprise. But if the monopoly is in fact more profitable than competitive enterprises, economists expect that other entrepreneurs will enter the business to capture some of the higher returns. If enough rivals enter, their competition will drive prices down and eliminate monopoly power. COMPARISION OF VARIOUS MARKETS A distinction has been made between perfect and imperfect competition. â€Å" A market is said to be perfect when all the potential sellers and buyers are promptly aware of the prices at which transactions take place and all the offers made by other sellers and buyers, and when any buyer can purchase from any seller. Same price same commodity same times is essential characteristic of perfect market. [5] On the other hand, a market is imperfect when some buyers or sellers or both are not aware of the prices made by others. Different prices come to prevail for the same commodity at the same time in an imperfect market. STRUCTURE NO.OF PRODUCERS AND DEGREE OF PRODUCT DIFFERENTIATION PART OF ECONOMY WHERE IT’S PREVALENT FIRM’S DEGREE OF CONTROL METHODS PF MARKETING Perfect Competition Many products; identical products. Financial markets and agricultural products None Market exchange or auction. Imperfect Competition Monopolistic Competition Many producers; many real differences in products. Retail trade like pizzas, beer. Some Advertising and quality rivalry administered prices. Oligopoly Few producers; little or no difference in product. Steel, chemicals some Advertising and quality rivalry administered prices. Monopoly Single producer; product without close substitutes. Franchise monopolies like electricity, water,drugs considerable Advertising COMPARISION ON BASIS OF DEMAND In economics, basically  demand  is the utility for a good or service of an economic agent, relative to his income. Demand is a buyers willingness and ability to pay a price for a specific quantity of a good or service.   Ã‚   Demand refers to how much (quantity) of a product or service is desired by buyers at various prices. The quantity demanded is the amount of a product people are willing to buy at a certain price; the relationship between price and quantity demanded is known as the demand. The term demand signifies the ability or the willingness to buy a particular commodity at a given point of time. In the above diagram, PART A reflects that the perfect competitor faces a horizontal demand curve, indicating that it can sell all it wants at the going market price. The price elasticity is perfectly elastic. When there is pure competition, since the number of firms is large, no individual has power to influence the market price. Also, since the products are identical from the consumer’s point of view, the price paid by them can’t be different. OX and OY are two axes. Along OX is the output and the OY is the price/revenue. At OP price a seller can sell as much as he likes. He cannot charge more and not charge less because then he’ll lose all his customers. PART B says that an imperfect competition, in contrast, faces a downward sloping demand curve. Meaning that if an imperfect competitive firm increases its sales, it will definitely depress the market price of its output as it moves down its dd curve. The price elasticity is finite elastic. [6] COMPARISON  ON BASIS OF SUPPLY Competitive firm has direct implications for the market supply curve and the law of supply. The primary conclusion is that a perfectly competitive firms short-run supply curve is that segment of its marginal cost curve that lies above the average variable costcurve. A perfectly competitive firm produces the quantity of output that equates marginal revenue, which is equal to price, and marginal cost, as long as price exceeds average variable cost. The profit-maximizing choices of output at alternative prices generate the perfectly competitive firms short-run supply curve. Consider three key points: A profit-maximizing firm produces the quantity of output that equates marginal revenue and marginal cost (MR = MC). A perfectly competitive firm is characterized by the equality between price and marginal revenue (P = MR). The law of diminishing marginal returns gives the marginal cost curve a positive slope. Combining all three points means that a profit-maximizing perfectly competitive firm produces the quantity of output that equates price and marginal cost (P = MC). An increase in the price, moves the profit-maximizing quantity to a higher point on the positively-sloped marginal cost curve, and a larger production quantity. A decrease in the price, moves the profit-maximizing quantity to a lower point on the positively-sloped marginal cost curve, and a smaller production quantity. REAL WORLD SCENARIO In the post independence era, India adopted highly restrictive industrial policy. India’s industrial licensing policy created entry barriers for private enterprises in sectors earmarked for them and hence didn’t promote ‘perfect competition’. Indian planners who believed in the doctrine of ‘infant industry argument’ provided necessary protection to domestic manufactures from foreign competition by way of tariff barriers. During this regulated regime, however, India’s industrial growth rate was not promising. In India, under Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), industrial licensing policy was abolished and tariff and quantity restrictions on imports were also dispensed with. Thus the New Economic Policy made an effort to promote a competitive market system in India. As a result India’s industrial sector started showing some signs of improvement in terms of growth.[7] In the real world, situations like perfect market exists for markets for most of unbranded staple goods such as food grain and vegetables. However it should be noted that there is a trend of branding more and more of such goods also, and in this ways making their markets become more and more like oligopolistic markets. In a monopoly like in Saudi Arabia the government has sole control over the oil industry. A monopoly may also form when a company has a copyright or patent that prevents others from entering the market. Pfizer, for instance, had a patent on Viagra. In an oligopoly, assume, for example, that an economy needs only 100 widgets. Company X produces 50 widgets and its competitor, Company Y, produces the other 50. The prices of the two brands will be interdependent and, therefore, similar. So, if Company X starts selling the widgets at a lower price, it will get a greater market share, thereby forcing Company Y to lower its prices as well. There are two extreme forms of market structure: monopoly and, its opposite, perfect competition. Perfect competition is characterized by many buyers and sellers, many products that are similar in nature and, as a result, many substitutes. Perfect competition means there are few, if any, barriers to entry for new companies, and prices are determined by su pply and demand. Thus, producers in a perfectly competitive market are subject to the prices determined by the market and do not have any leverage. For example, in a perfectly competitive market, should a single firm decide to increase its selling price of a good, the consumers can just turn to the nearest competitor for a better price, causing any firm that increases its prices to lose market share and profits. CRITICISMS OF PERFECT COMPETITION The use of the assumption of perfect competition as the foundation ofprice theoryfor product markets is often criticized as representing all agents as passive, thus removing the active attempts to increase ones welfare or profits by price undercutting, product design, advertising, innovation, activities that the critics argue – characterize most industries and markets. These criticisms point to the frequent lack of realism of the assumptions ofproduct homogenity and impossibility to differentiate it, but apart from this the accusation of passivity appears correct only for short-period or very-short-period analyses, in long-period analyses the inability of price to diverge from the natural or long-period price is due to active reactions of entry or exit. Some economists have a different kind of criticism concerning perfect competition model. They are not criticizing theprice taker assumption because it makes economic agents too passive, but because it then raises the question of who sets the prices. Indeed, if everyone is price taker, there is the need for a benevolent planner who gives and sets the prices, in other word, there is a need for a price maker. Therefore, it makes the perfect competition model appropriate not to describe a decentralize market economy but a centralized one. This in turn means that such kind of model has more to do with communism than capitalism. Another frequent criticism is that it is often not true that in the short run differences between supply and demand cause changes in price; especially in manufacturing, the more common behaviour is alteration of production without nearly any alteration of price. CONCLUSION In this industrial and competitive world not everyone has a chance to excel. Sometimes there is boom period in the economy when the firm’s income flourishes while at other times there can be a depression which will create losses for the firm. It is thus a firm’s ability to manage its resources carefully and feasibly. Why do consumers spend their income on new brands? A classical reference may be in order: â€Å"The love of novelty manifests itself equally in those who are well off and in those who are not. For . . . men get tired of prosperity, just as they are afflicted by the reverse. . . . This love of change . . . opens the way to everyone who takes the lead in any innovation in any country.† Thus, in an economy there will be different types of market and each market will have its own pros and cons it just depends on the various innovations they undertake to attract more consumers. Both perfect and imperfect competitions excel in their fields. BIBLIOGRAPHY BOOKS: Nordhaus, Samuelson. (2008) Economics. Tata Mc-Graw-Hill Publishing Company Limited. Dewett, K.K., Nevalur, M.H., Modern Economic Theory, S. Chand, New Delhi, 2010. WEBSITES: http://www.economicshelp.org/microessays/markets/perfect-competition/ http://tutor2u.net/economics/content/topics/competition/competition.htm http://www.economicshelp.org/microessays/markets/perfect-competition/ http://www.cci.gov.in/May2011/Advocacy/essay2012/jyoti.pdf [1] Dewett, K.K., Nevalur, M.H., Modern Economic Theory, S. Chand, New Delhi, 2010. [2] http://www.economicshelp.org/microessays/markets/perfect-competition/ [3] http://www.economicshelp.org/microessays/markets/perfect-competition/ [4] http://tutor2u.net/economics/content/topics/competition/competition.htm [5] Dewett, K.K., Nevalur, M.H., Modern Economic Theory, S. Chand, New Delhi, 2010. [6] Nordhaus, Samuelson. (2008) Economics. Tata Mc-Graw-Hill Publishing Company Limited. [7] The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) was 6.2 percent for April-Dec, 1999.