Better Decisions, Better Life Essay

John Updike, who is known for his brilliant prose style and the sensual details in his stories, takes everyday tasks and gives a whole new perspective to it. Like in â€Å"A&P†, which is a narrative from the perspective of a nineteen-year-old boy working in the checkout line. Even though Sammy is just an average boy, something significant happens that day at the grocery store. The story revolves around Sammy’s journey from adolescence to adulthood and his resignation from the job at the grocery store marks the major change. Even though Sammy’s conscience disagrees with his decision, his need to escape the monotony of his life drives him to take it. The author uses various symbols to present a gradual progression into Sammy’s decision in the end. As a teenage boy in a town in Boston in the 60s, Sammy did not have much going on for himself – his responsibility was to earn some money to manage the household expenses. For his he had to work at the grocery store. His co-worker Stokesie, who is only three years older than him, is married and has two children. He hopes to become the manager of the grocery store and is the only other co-worker mentioned in the story. Sammy obviously feels a strong connection with Stokesie, as they both eye the bikini clad girls together. Also, he mentions that the only difference he can tell between Stokesie and himself is the number of years they are apart (Updike 531). But from the tone in which Sammy talks about Stokesie, it is easy to see that he does not respect his co-worker as much. Instead he feels as though he is looking into a mirror of the future and he lives a life similar to Stokesie’s. Updike’s intention was to portray Stokesie as the future reflection of Sammy. Although when the girls enter the grocery store dressed skimpily, they present Sammy with a whole new world. Sammy says â€Å"you never know for sure how girls’ minds work†, instead he imagines it to be â€Å"a little buzz like a bee in a glass jar† (Updike 530). He observes little details about all of these girls and ranks them on the basis of his perception. The two girls he gives the position of followers were not given much thought, except for their swim suit colors and their build. However, the girl that he ranked as the leader, or the â€Å"Queenie†, received most of his attention. Other than the color of her hair and bikini, he mentions how â€Å"there was nothing between the top of the suit and the top of her head except just her† (Updike 530). Also, he notices that she held her head so high that her neck looked stretched, but he did not mind that because that meant â€Å"the more of her there was† (Updike 530). This shows that Sammy is extremely intrigued by the girls, especially Queenie, that the more he could examine her, the more satisfied he would be. She was something different from his everyday experiences. The colors described are significant to the theme of the story. The girls were described to be wearing plaid green, bright green and beige bikinis (Updike 529,530). They are presented as a contrast to the dull colors of the store. These bright colors represent a colorful and unknown province. Also, the floor of the grocery store is a checkerboard green-and-cream. Even though these colors are close to the colors of the girls’ bathing suits, the checkerboard pattern dissolves the radiance of these colors against the curiosity in the girls itself. This was a new event in Sammy’s life. After all, a grocery store check-out clerk does a job such as this mostly out of necessity. Evidently Sammy has grown tired of rude customers. He describes one elderly female customer as â€Å"a witch about fifty with rogue on her cheekbones and no eyebrows† (Updike 529) when she caught him swiping one of her items twice. Sammy felt as though it pleased her to correct him. He imagines people who come shopping at A&P to be sad souls. He describes some other female customers as â€Å"houseslaves in pin curlers† (Updike 531). Also, he designates the customers at the grocery store â€Å"sheeps† while narrating the story. He seems to address the herd mentality that people tend to have – to stick together when there’s trouble. Clearly, he doesn’t look up to this cowardly behavior. He complains about this since the beginning of the story. However in the end he changes this attitude. Not only the customers and Stokesie, but Sammy does not respect the manager either. Although he has never been vocal about it, Sammy mocks Lengel in his head and accuses him of hiding behind the door labeled â€Å"Manager† all day (Updike 532).This shows Lengel’s gutless personality. When Lengel walks in on the girls checking out, he asserts his authority and lets them know that they must dress appropriately in the store (Updike 532). It was the last straw for Sammy and he quits his job, even after Lengel warns him about it (Updike 533). Lengel’s warning further shows that he has always taken the safer way and that’s why he has never been able to stand up for his beliefs. Sammy did not want to be someone like Lengel, so he decides to break free. When Sammy stands up for the girls, a part of him did expect some appreciation from them. But the underlying reason is much bigger than a simple ‘Thank you’. It is about his freedom from the routine lifestyle that he was getting used to. Continuing the life he had would eventually lead to the same monotonous life that Stokesie and Lengel had. Also, Sammy’s course of action changes through the story. In the beginning he would complain about the people he came across and worked with, but he had not ever taken any step to change that. Quitting the job was the major step that would change his life. Although, he may not have a stable job anymore, this decision has definitely made him a better person. Work Cited Updike, John. â€Å"A&P.† 1961. Approaching Literature: Writing + Reading + Thinking. Ed. Peter Schakel and Jack Ridl. 2nd ed. Boston: Bedford, 2008. 529-534. Print.

Our School Exhibition

Our school held a very interesting exhibition of students' art and craft work last year. Itwas surprising to see the various pieces of handwork of such high standards. Theseexhibits were attractive and colourful for they had been prepared and designed well bythe students with guidance from the Art teachers. The students were obviouslyenthusiastic about their work; for each item was rendered carefully and lovingly withoutthe slightest trace of sloppinessThere were many sections to interest parents and friends who came to see the work of their children. The painting of nature, Malaysian scenes, flowers and fruits was of anexceptionally high standard. Other items such as puppets, dolls and articles of embroidery  were admired, too.In the geography section, there were clay models of physical features like hills, mountains and plateaus set in a natural environment of greenlandscape with rivers meandering  through the land.Some articles like flowers made from silk were for sale and lad ies readily bought theseitems. Our school exhibition was appreciated by all. Cameron Highlands – a Malaysian Hill ResortAfter living in the busy city of Kuala Lumpur with its noise and bustling traffic, it is a pleasure to go up to Cameron Highlands, a cool mountain resort, for relaxation.Enroute  you will enjoy the scenic countryside as you drive up hilly roads amidst jungletrees, waterfalls and small villages. Then, you feast your eyes each time you pass a flower nursery or a vegetable farm. The cool, crisp air at Tanah Rata makes you feel invigorated.At the same time, you are able to admire the quaint-looking English-style cottages alongthe way. Roses creeping up and clinging to the walls of the cottages remind you of England and the scenery is enchanting  if you happen to be a nature-lover. Usually, avisitor gets quite hungry as he  goes up the highlands and he is able to enjoy the piping hotmeals served in the restaurants.As the sun goes down, temperature drops and it becomes quite chilly. You can then sit bythe fireside with your favourite story book and laze around in a sweater or a jacket as it isquite a contrast to the warm and sunny weather on the plains in your hometown.A visit to the famous Boh Tea plantation is interesting and worthwhile for have you ever wondered how you get you cup of tea? It comes mainly from the tea plantations onCameron Highlands. Jungle walks are also a good way of spending your time while youare there. Cameron is indeed an ideal holiday resort.

Benefits of Online Shopping

Benefits of Online Shopping: 1) Convenience: The convenience of this method of shopping is the best advantage of online shopping. One does not have to wait in a line or wait till the shop assistant is ready to help with the purchases. Shopping can be done in minutes even if one is busy apart from saving time and avoiding crowds. Online shops give the opportunity to shop 24 x 7 and also reward us with a ‘no pollution’ shopping. There is no better place to buy information products like e-books. Immediately after the payment is made one can download the information.And downloadable items purchased online eliminate the need for any kind of material goods at all. 2) Better Prices: The cheap deals and better prices we can get from online stores is fascinating because products come to you direct from the manufacturer or seller without middlemen involved. Many online shops offer discount coupons and rebates. Apart from this, the Online Store is only required to collect sales tax if they have a physical location in our state even if we buy from a store across the world. ) Variety: The choices you can get for products are amazing. One can get several brands and products from different sellers at one place. You can get in on the latest international trends without spending money on airfare. When you shop online, you can shop from retailers in other parts of the country or even the world without being limited by geographic area. These stores offer a far greater selection of colors and sizes than you will find locally. ) Send Gifts: Online Shopping makes sending gifts to relatives and friends easy, no matter where ever they stay. Now there is no need of making distance an excuse for not sending a gift on occasions like Birthday, Wedding Anniversary, Marriage, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day etc. 5) Fewer Expenses: Many times when we opt for conventional shopping we tend to spend a lot more than the required shopping expenses on things like eating ou t, traveling, impulsive shopping etc. ) Comparison of Prices: Online shops make comparison and research of products and prices possible. Online stores also give you the ability to share information and reviews with other shoppers who have first-hand experience with a product or retailer. 7) Crowds: Crowds force us to do a hurried shopping most of the time. Grumpy or irritating people and those who smell bad are a huge turn off. Crowds also create a problem when it comes to finding a parking place nearby where you want to shop and going back to your vehicle later loaded with shopping bags. ) Compulsive Shopping: Many times when we go out on Shopping we end up buying things which we do not require because of the shop keepers up selling skills. Sometimes we even compromise on our choices because of the lack of choices in those shops. 9) Buying Old or unused Stuff at low prices: Online Shops make it possible for us to buy old or unused stuff at rock bottom prices. If we want to buy anti ques there is no better options than online stores. 10) Discreet Purchases: Some things are better done in privacy. Online shops are also best for discreet purchases like adult toys, sexy lingerie and so on.

Minority Media in the U.S Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Minority Media in the U.S - Essay Example One of the most remarkable characteristics of the Hispanic media is the sheer size of its audience. There are approximately 40 million Hispanics in the US, the largest US minority, and 88% of them view Spanish language television (Porter 55). The number of Hispanic television viewers in Los Angeles is greater than the entire viewing audience in Boston (Ballve 20). In addition, nearly 80% of Hispanics listen to Spanish speaking radio and has resulted in Hispanic advertising growing at a rate of 20% in 2002 nearly 3 times the English speaking rate (Porter 55). These statistics translate into dollars as Hispanic radio and TV stations and their broadcasting networks bring in billions of dollars. Before the media industry was worth billions of dollars while selling politics and products to millions of listeners, there were newspapers and periodicals. Kanellos points out that there are two distinctive Hispanic media in the US; the immigrant media, and the primarily native Hispanic press, which is directed at the US citizens of Hispanic descent (4). By the mid-nineteenth century, both natives and immigrants were creating Spanish speaking newspapers and periodicals (Kanellos 3). These circulations would form the genesis of the Hispanic press and the coming electronic media. Kanellos contends that in 1910, during the massive immigration of economic and political refugees from Mexico into the US, the Hispanic press began to define itself. Publishers and columnists advocated using the press for the "defense of the community" (Kanellos 4). According to Kanellos, "...defense meant protecting immigrants civil and human rights, but just as important it also meant protecting the commun ity from the influence of Anglo-American culture and the Protestant religion" (4). It is on this foundation that the Hispanic media has been able to build a cohesive base that centers on a common

Speech Class Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Speech Class - Essay Example On the other hand, illegal operations give no benefit to the government, but legalization will bring in taxes and help control the operations as well. â€Å"It is estimated that pot is the largest cash crop in California, with annual revenues approaching $14 billion. A 10% pot tax would yield $1.4 billion in California alone. A veritable marijuana economic-stimulus package!† (Klein, Joe, 2009; â€Å"US Policy on Drugs†, n.d.; Wolff, Madeline, 2009) 1. â€Å"Cannabis being used as a treatment goes back to China in 28 BC. Emperor Shen-Nung prescribed cannabis for: beriberi, constipation, female weakness, gout, malaria, rheumatism, and absent-mindedness† (â€Å"Marijuana Uses - Marijuana as Medicine†, 2009) Saad, Lydia. â€Å"U.S. Support for Legalizing Marijuana Reaches New High.† Gallup.com. 19 October 2009. 17 November 2009. Wolff, Madeline. â€Å"Legalizing marijuana can reduce crime, increase revenue for state.† sundial.csun.edu. 2009. 17 November 2009.

Feedback and changes Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Feedback and changes - Essay Example The elderly population, today, did not have computers taught in school (Wood, 2010). The modern world requires everyone to possess basic computer skills. When computer access is necessary to acquire information, senior citizens find difficulty when lacking computer skills (Wood, 2010). Computer technology services may include obtaining government Social Security services Medicare, banking services, and accessing the performance of their children in school (Suntanto, 2012). The elderly population should learn computers because computers are necessary for the best utilizing services and adapting to modern society. A cursory examination of the issue introduced above reveals a number of compelling studies provide a meaningful overview of the computer literacy among the older generation as it stands and its most significant social factors. An examination undertaken in 2011 by McMurtrey carried out a survey of large random sampling of senior citizens in order to gauge their views towards interaction with information technology. McMurtrey (2011) reveal an important point: even if senior citizens do want to learn how to interface with information technology the restriction of access to training or education is an obstacle. Resistance is an issue, which must consider other studies have chosen to look at the issue (Gilly, 2012). The primary obstacle to acceptance seemed to be the usage; lack of support stemming from a lack of available training and education (Gilly, 2012). Many are now undertaking efforts to market information technology directly to seniors by focusing not so much on robust features but on the ease of use, or on bundled training materials (Smith, 2012). Technologies have the potential to play significant roles in the lives of senior citizens and the more comfortable and accepting they are of technologies the more likely they may be able to reap the associated benefits. Tech-savvy (2013) study pointed out 57 percent of all senior

Effects of Media on Political and Social Trust in US Article

Effects of Media on Political and Social Trust in US - Article Example From this discussion it is clear that in democratic societies like USA, media ensures the exchange of opinions and points of view between the people in power and the general public. In liberal democracy, media facilitates   public communication, informs the public, and represents the community. In democratic countries, freedom of press is guaranteed by law. The government may protect information from its public disclosure by classifying it as sensitive, classified or secret.This study outlines that people are said to have political trust when they trust the actions and intentions of the government and politicians. Uncivil exchanges during talks shows drastically reduce social trust. Talk radio can provide an unstructured outlet for public expression.  As listeners engage more and more with the medium, they become exhausted by the political system rather being motivated citizens. Thus, there is no long-term gauge on any medium to see how the media affect on trust in different time s. Social trust is a belief in the honesty, integrity and reliability of others that enables participants to act together more efficiently. Scanning the papers and watching video entertainment content enhance social trust, while examining the television news undermine trust in others.  studies have generated results that 20% of the overall public in America, have a greater impact on the political process than do those with more mixed ideological views.

LEGAL ASPECT OF NURSING Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

LEGAL ASPECT OF NURSING - Case Study Example The physician is reluctant to perform the surgery because of the patient’s recent stroke. However, Mr. Suarez’s adult children are insistent that the surgery should commence. As the main caregivers, they are charged with the responsibility of managing their father’s health condition. It is for this reason they push for the best medical care for their father. In light of the unfolding events, there is an ethical dilemma. The ethical committee should act in the best interest of the patient. Due consideration should be made for the physician’s evaluation. There are few kidneys available for transplant but there are many patients in need of kidney transplant. Unfortunately, many patients have succumbed to death during the waiting period. It is disheartening that there is a worldwide shortage of kidneys available for transplant. Potential kidney donors are living donors or deceased donors. For deceased donors they can either be non-heart beating donors (donatio n is made after cardiac death) or heart beating donors (donation is made after brain death). There has been an increase in the kidney donations made by both living donors and non-heart beating donors, but the donations from heart beating donors have declined. ... Given Mr. Suarez’s cardiac complications, a cardiac evaluation is necessary. Physical examination and history is essential for transplant candidates. Patients exhibiting cardiac failure are highly predisposed to cardiovascular events peri-operatively and post-transplantation (Suphamai &. Danovitch, 2007). Abnormal ECG results would warrant further cardiac evaluation. Mr. Suarez’s age is above 50 years, and a stress test should be administered. However, there is need to appreciate the current critical health state of the patient. Several independent medical experts on kidney transplants should be consulted by the ethics committee. They should give a report of the expected kidney transplant in light of the hemorrhagic stroke. There is need to determine if the stroke is a major risk factor that predisposes the patient to a critical health state. If there is a high possibility of an unsuccessful surgery, Mr. Suarez’s eligibility for a kidney transplant declines. The kidney transplant is for the purpose of saving a life and if there is a likelihood of an unsuccessful surgery, it would not be ethical to select Mr. Suarez as a kidney recipient. Comprehensive information is required on the physical and mental health state of Mr. Suarez. Mortalities are mainly caused by malignancy, infection and cardiovascular disease as they are the main complications arising from immunosuppression in the majority of kidney transplant recipients. The transplant assessment process also requires a comprehensive evaluation of Mr. Suarez’s psychosocial, medical and surgical history (Pham et al. 2010). This evaluation is a challenge for transplant physicians as they have to screen for complex medical issues in potential candidates, and another challenge is the non

Different phases of the project life cycle require a flexible approach Essay

Different phases of the project life cycle require a flexible approach in leadership style and skills - Essay Example Whenever we talk about the methods implicated in the project management we in general refer those methods towards the management of people as well as resources. The management of people is the management of workers. Management of people guides us about the roles and duties that a worker can perform in a project for making a project successful. It also guides management what type of staff should reserve for a specific project (Kerzner, 2003). A project manager or leader plays an important role in the success and failure of a project. This paper explains different leadership tactics and qualities during the different life cycle stages of the project. This paper explains the contemporary leadership traits, skills, and behaviors principles, comprising interesting developing views in the changing project life cycle stages, It has placed the gap between extant theory and leadership in technology projects lacks practitioner reflection-in-action, in that existing literature does not prove wh at effective global project managers actually do within the dynamic situational context of multiple competing demands. First of all we will discuss the qualities of a leader, the important point to mention is that: this section will discuss the project’s manger or leader’s project handling qualities, tests and important abilities that he must have in the changing environment. Then next section explains the different qualities and project management styles those are necessary for the project in the each life cycle stages of the project. The last section contains the conclusion and references. Suggested different project management approaches are correct for different stages of project (Kenneth, 1998). This would suggest that different project management styles, and thus different competency profiles and leadership styles for the project manager would be appropriate for different phases of project. Why we emphasis the leadership or its qualities, the

Community Solutions Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Community Solutions - Research Paper Example According to European standards, the categories of people who have been considered as poor have been â€Å"1. the long term unemployed and the young unemployed, 2. the elderly, 3, single parent families, 4. second generation migrants, 5. refugees and returning minors, 6. marginal groups- e.g. gypsies, travellers, homeless, 7. underpriveleged urban districts, 8. impoverished rural areas† (Cullen, 5). The American definition for 2011 is that â€Å"for a family of four including two adults and two children, total yearly income has to be below $22,350, to be called poor as is given in the US Department of Health and Human Services website. While addressing the issues that the poor people face, as members of the subculture of poverty, one major concern has always been the physical eradication of poverty and its negative manifestations which lives of the poor people miserable. Community development is universally accepted as the most effective method to address poverty and its prob lems. The community development program of 1980s in Ireland was a landmark in the history of the fight against poverty (Cullen, 11). Cullen, in his study on nine poverty elimination projects implemented in Ireland, has revisited the methods and strategies followed by various organizations and agencies who participated in these projects and has concluded that â€Å"community development is a process that deliberately activates, encourages and supports groups of people to participate in collective action in pursuit of common interests, and which contributes to social justice and equity† (Cullen, 11). During the John-Nixon era, in the US, â€Å"community action programs† were abundant and quite popular (Joseph, 49). Though they set the stage for the emergence of a welfare state, they were also criticized as capable of only peripherally addressing the issues of poverty (Patterson, 146). Notwithstanding these opposing viewpoints regarding community solutions to the subcultu re of poverty, the global intellectual discourses have always seen community solutions as the most viable way out (Cullen, Joseph, FAO and Gaiha). The best available community solution to the subculture of poverty will be to set up community level revolving funds partially sponsored by the government and partially by the industrial houses of the country. To raise the funds, the government will have to introduce a special tax of 0.1% of the profit, on the corporate companies, which have a profit margin above a fixed ceiling. These funds along with a government contribution will then be transferred to the local authorities to be utilized for ensuring a minimum of 200 days’ work for all those able-bodied persons who have been listed as poor. The form of work has to be fixed at local level, by the local administration in consultation with the community leaders, and according to the local resources available and prevailing local conditions and necessities. For example, if in a pla ce having water scarcity, the work has to be provided in water conservation activities, which can contribute to the local economy in a productive way. And the newly generated water could be given back into the community at a reasonable cost. Similarly, in an area where the major vocation is agriculture, work can be provided in community-level agro-processing industries. This solution will have to involve â€Å"massive commitments of Federal funds†

US Weaponry advances in the Late 1800's Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

US Weaponry advances in the Late 1800's - Essay Example The bullet was driven out of the muzzle at a velocity of about 1,200 feet per second, and it could travel more than 1,000 yards. In 1874, the U.S. Army also used the Colt single action Army revolver. This pistol fired six .45-caliber cartridges. The effective range of the Colt revolver dropped off rapidly over 60 yards. During the campaign, the Army employed various kinds of artillery as well. Colonel Nelson A. Miles, for example, had two Gatling guns that fired a .50 caliber bullet. The Gatling gun was capable of firing up to 300 rounds per minute. At the Battle of Red River on August 30, 1874, Col. Nelson Miles used the Gatling against the Southern Cheyenne—the first time the gun was used in combat west of the Mississippi River. Miles also brought along a 10-pounder Parrott rifle, which was actually a small cannon. The Parrott rifle fired a shell that measured 8.8 inches long by 2.86 in diameter. The shell exploded upon impact and the shell casing became the shrapnel. The maximum range of the 10-pounder Parrott rifle at five degrees elevation was about 2,000 yards. 1 By 1877 "Bulldog" was the first Gatling gun to feature a fully enclosed bronze housing over the barrels and breech. The "Bulldog" was a five-barrel .45 cal. tripod mounted weapon. A few were mounted on a light cavalry cart. A rear mounting hand crank permitted a very high rate of fire of up to 1,000 spm(single point mooring), almost twice the rate of a typical World War II machine gun. By 1889, it was a ten-barrel .45 cal. gun fully encased in a bronze jacket. A side mounting hand crank produced a rate of fire of up to 800 spm, but could be rear mounted to increase the rate up to 1,500 spm. Internal components were strengthened to withstand the punishment from the higher rate of fire. This model had a new flexible yoke that permitted a wider angle of traverse and elevation than

The stages in some types of storms (hurricane) Essay Example for Free

The stages in some types of storms (hurricane) Essay A hurricane is a wheather system that is usually described as a funnel of warm wet air, when warm moist air rises and encounter with the cooler air, it causes the warm water vapor to condense and form rain drops and dark clouds. Most hurricanes that occur in the Atlantic develops off the west coast of Africa. Hurricanes begins as thunderstorms which moves out over the warm tropical ocean water. There are three stages in forming a hurricane, tropical depression stage, the tropical storm stage and finally the hurricane. The first stage is called the tropical depression. In this stage an organized yet sustained thunderstorm with swirling clouds, rain, and wind speed of less than 38 miles per hour (mph). Sustained winds are normally classified as winds that persist for at least one minute in duration. Then with wind speed of 39-73 mph it becomes a tropical storm and a name is given to it. Tropical storms may evlove into a hurricane. This is also where the eye and eye walls of the storm are being created. Tropical storms can cause server damages to property and human as well. Death may occur depending on the storms position. With winds up to 200 mph and up to 600 miles across, finally a hurricane has formed. Believe it or not, hurricanes does an important job, it moves the heat from warm climate to cooler temperature zone. It may also take from hours to days to form a hurricane.

Range Brands General Target Market Description

Range Brands General Target Market Description Firstly, a brief situational analysis will be given. A short background of the company and a description of the current performance of the enterprise will be provided, before considering the performance of the company ¿Ã‚ ½s closest competitors, current trends and emerging segments in the market followed by a description of the current and desired positioning of Tissot. The poor relative performance and stagnant market share of the company provides the main rational for developing a new marketing strategy for Tissot, aimed at creating a stronger differentiation and more distinctive image for the brand. Secondly, the marketing and communication objectives of the campaign will be stated, before outlining the strategy for the campaign. The aim is to reposition Tissot as  ¿Ã‚ ½sporty, elegant and feminine ¿Ã‚ ½ through a re-launch campaign, using an integrated advertising, direct mail, point-of-sale, PR and sponsorship strategy focusing on the themes social responsibility and creativity. The target markets for the campaign will be 22-35 year old AB working women, as well as the company ¿Ã‚ ½s current and potential new distributors. Finally the report conclude with, details of the campaign outlining the control measures that will be used in the evaluation-phase of the campaign. Contents 1.0 Introduction 4 2.0 Company/ Group History and products. 5 2.1 History 5 2.2 Swatch Group Product range 5 3.0 Investigation and analysis 9 3.1 Overview of the UK Market 9 3.2 PESTLE Analysis. 10 3.3 Situational analysis (SWOT) 11 3.4 Differential advantage/ Competitive edge (USP) 12 3.5 Current product range of Tissot 12 4.0 Recommendations 14 4.1 Segmentation Targeting Positioning (STP) 14 4.1.1 Market Segmentation 14 4.2 Marketing objectives and goals (SMART) 16 4.2.1 Marketing Objectives 17 4.2.2 Strategy 17 4.2.3 Target market 17 4.3 Desired Positioning 17 18 4.4 Marketing strategies and programmes (4P ¿Ã‚ ½s) 18 5.0 Conclusion 21 5.1 Evaluation 21 6.0 Reference and Bibliography 21 1.0 Introduction The watches and jewellery market has not been immune to the economic climate and the whole industry suffered in late 2008 and in 2009 as consumer confidence fell and people became more cautious about their spending (Europa Star October, 2010). But on the other hand according to Europa Star report market dynamics such as shifting consumer attitudes has led to a substantial increase in demand, and this trend is expected to continue also in the coming years. According to Europa Star (2010) strong watch groups such as Swatch group, LVMH and Richemont have weathered the storm and have become even stronger. This is evident from the triumphant profit announcements from the Swatch Group, LVMH, and Richemont. In a growing and crowded market, luxury watch manufacturer Swatch group has experienced stagnant sales and a stable market share. The focus of this report will therefore to be outline the current market dynamics and recommend a viable new marketing strategy for Swatch group especially emphasizing on its Tisot Brand. Primarily, a brief situational analysis will be given. A short background of the company and a description of its brands and the current performance of the group will be provided, followed by the analysis of company ¿Ã‚ ½s closest competitors. Further, investigation of company ¿Ã‚ ½s external and internal environment will be followed. After investigating its environment, a detail recommendation for its marketing strategy highlighting key current trends and emerging segments in the market, followed by a description of the current and desired positioning of the brand will be provided. Finally the report will conclude with a summary of the key findings and recommendations. 2.0 Company/ Group History and products. 2.1 History The Swatch Group Ltd. is the number one manufacturer of finished watches in the world. The Group is active in the manufacture of finished watches, jewelry, and watch movements and components. It produces nearly all of the components necessary to manufacture the watches sold under its 19 watch brands and the multi-brand Tourbillon retail label, as well as the entire Swiss watchmaking industry. In addition, it operates its own worldwide network of distribution organizations. The Swatch Group is also a key player in the electronic systems sector. Tissot Brand. Founded in 1853 at Le Locle, the birthplace of Swiss watch making, the Tissot brand is proud to have developed a strong tradition of quality and innovative Swiss watches. The brand is available in over 150 countries. 2.2 Swatch Group Product range Table 1.1 Swatch Group Product Range Range Brands General Target Market Description Prestige and Luxury Range Breguet, Blancpain, Glash ¿Ã‚ ½tte Original, Jaquet Droz, L ¿Ã‚ ½on Hatot, Omega and Tiffany Each of them originates strength and prestige from its own exclusive history, and reinvents components ¿Ã‚ ½ with high-end and supreme excellence targeting for the very highest end of the market. High Range Longines, Rado and Union Glash ¿Ã‚ ½tte Wide series of sophisticated watches placed at the top end of the market. They are characterized by their pioneering spirit, their technological revolution and their considerable involvement in sport and design. Middle Range Tissot, ck watch jewelry, Balmain, Certina, Mido and Hamilton Their extremely keen intelligence of current events  ¿Ã‚ ½ fashion, sport and culture  ¿Ã‚ ½ which is reflected in the definition of their high-quality products, gives them a very high profile in the mid-range market. They practically always occupy the leadership position in their different market niches. The unique characteristics of each brand are reflected in the models that make up its range. Basic Range Swatch and Flik Flak. Two extremes. Swatch on one hand, the most visible of the Swatch Group ¿Ã‚ ½s 19 brands and the most famous plastic watch in the world; and Flik Flak on the other, exclusively reserved for children. Stood in the lowest price segment. The range is consequently immense and aimed at everyone. Private Label Endura Group makes all its expertise available to third-party clients who are not active in the watch making industry, manufacture exclusive for special events, sports etc. providing them with watches that perfectly capture and replicate their image. Source:www.swatchgroup.com Based on the above table the main focus of this report will be the mid-range market, where Tissot brand is positioned. Thus it is important firstly to identify it ¿Ã‚ ½s direct or in this case its internal competitors. The following table describes its internal competitors. Table 1.2 Internal competitors Position: Innovators by tradition the first anti-magnetic watch in 1930; Astrolon, the first watch with a plastic casing in 1971; Rock watch, the first watch with a casing made of alpine granite in 1985, followed by Pearl watch, the first watch with a mother-of-pearl casing in 1986, then Wood watch, the first watch with a casing made of wood in 1987. In 1996, Tissot launched its first autoquartz models with 6-day autonomy and then, in 2001, its famous T-Touch models with seven additional functions activated by touching the watch ¿Ã‚ ½s crystal. Tissot has also built its reputation on an incomparable style and elegance. People the world over recognize the dynamic that has presided over the brand ¿Ã‚ ½s destiny for more than 150 years. Its deep involvement in sport, its role as Official Chronometer at top-level national, trans-national and global events Position: Absolute, contemporary The US designer Calvin Klein and the Swatch Group pooled their formidable talent in 1997 to create cK watch, a watch brand with graphic lines that are striking, refined and contemporary. A new and inimitable type of watch, a fashion accessory watch. Today, over 200 different Swiss-made models designed for men as well as women adorn storefronts in more than 60 countries. Characterized by its essential sexy image that translates refined lines and numerous metal surfaces into sensual curves. Position: A world of elegance From 1987 to 1995, Balmain watches were manufactured under exclusive license by the Swatch Group, which supplied its immense expertise and state-of-the-art watchmaking technology to the brand and the Parisian fashion house founded in 1945. In December 1995, the Swatch Group acquired the exclusive rights to manufacture market and distribute the brand ¿Ã‚ ½s watches throughout the entire world. One of the brand ¿Ã‚ ½s distinctive features is the famous  ¿Ã‚ ½arabesques ¿Ã‚ ½ dial, the stunning design They are synonymous with elegance and refinement, and meet the quality and esthetic criteria demanded by discerning women and men alike. Position: Reliability, precision and innovation The spirit of the famous Certina brand is brought to life by a tradition of uncompromising excellence and the guaranteed use of the finest components and materials  ¿Ã‚ ½ titanium, 316L stainless steel, sapphire glass, and the renowned ETA Swiss Made movements. The company has built its reputation on the quality of the watch movements made by the Kurth brothers. As the Swiss leader in mid-range sporting watches, Certina has become the champion of outstanding quality at an affordable price. The introduction in 1959 of the concept of double security is a significant example of this, raising water and shock resistance to previously unattained levels. Position: A mark of true design Mido ¿Ã‚ ½s ambition is to produce watches that possess characteristics typical of the quality and careful craftsmanship of a Swiss watch, namely timepieces endowed with mechanical movements that are wound either by hand or automatically. Timelessness is the hallmark of its image, which aims to be clean-cut and refined. As a specialist in mechanical watches, Mido offers a variety of models with designs ranging from retro to contemporary, and from classic to innovative. They all meet the brand ¿Ã‚ ½s five strategic criteria: the Swiss-made label; a distinctive identity; a high-precision, high-quality mechanical movement; superior water-resistance, and excellent value for money. Position: A passion for the sky and the movies Launch of the worlds first battery-powered watch, the Ventura. In 1972, Hamilton again amazed the world by creating the first watch with a digital display. The wide range and varied styles of Hamilton watches have provided a valuable resource for Hollywood stylists and costume designers. As well as being worn by numerous actors during filming, the brand is also famous today for its  ¿Ã‚ ½Behind the Camera Awards ¿Ã‚ ½, which honors backstage artists on film sets in Los Angeles. Source:www.swatchgroup.com 3.0 Investigation and analysis 3.1 Overview of the UK Market The UK jewellery and watches market, with the jewellery sector being segmented into the categories of real jewellery (gold, silver and platinum) and fashion/costume jewellery. Total sales of jewellery and watches in the UK fluctuated between 2004 and 2008, and fell by 2.8% in the latter year to finish the review period at  ¿Ã‚ ½4.33bn. (Jewellery Watches Market Report, 2009). Furthermore, as consumers have cut back on spending during the recession, there has been pressure in the market to reduce prices which, combined with lower volumes, has meant an overall downturn in sales. Initially, the luxury end of the market was relatively unaffected by the downturn, but by the end of 2008 and early 2009, it had begun to take effect. (Jewellery Watches Market Report, 2009). The market share in UK is dominated by fashion brands such as Rolex, Omega and Gucci (please refer figure 1.1 below). Please note due to lack of market data the below figure describes data up to year 2005.Figure 1.1: Brand shares in the UK luxury watch market, 2002 and 2005. Source: Mintel report, 2005 3.2 PESTLE Analysis. Political  ¿Ã‚ ½ Removal of quantitative restrictions on import watches lead to a threat in UK. Economic  ¿Ã‚ ½ More people are concerned about their jobs and employment prospects than last year.  ¿Ã‚ ½ 11% growth for the jewellery and watches market over the next five years globally (Mintel, 2010).  ¿Ã‚ ½ Rising gold prices and the recession have led many consumers to buy silver jewellery instead of gold.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Currency volatility means the end of savage price-cutting. Sociological  ¿Ã‚ ½ Importance of the gifting market for retailers, with four in ten adults enjoying receiving precious metal jewellery as a birthday or Christmas present.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Young men aged under-35 are more open to paying higher amounts for a watch as they typically do not wear jewellery to express their individuality or consumer spending power.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Costume jewellery is the smallest sector of the watches and jewellery market, but has grown at the fastest rate. Technology  ¿Ã‚ ½ Watch brands are taking advantage of new technologies such as robots and hi-tech coatings.  ¿Ã‚ ½ A notable trend is the use of unconventional materials in luxury watches such as titanium and ceramics.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Another notable trend is retailers asking fashion brands to design special watches exclusively for their stores. (Innovation Driving Luxury Watch Market ,2007)  ¿Ã‚ ½ Developments in online retailing have contributed to it becoming increasingly transparent for information on pricing and availability. Legal  ¿Ã‚ ½ Regulations fair pricing and health and safety Environmental  ¿Ã‚ ½ Converging the watch ¿Ã‚ ½s main function with health benefits would be one way of helping to create new reasons for purchase. 3.3 Situational analysis (SWOT) Strengths  ¿Ã‚ ½ Brand Image  ¿Ã‚ ½ as an Innovators by tradition,  ¿Ã‚ ½Swiss Made ¿Ã‚ ½.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Unique and Exclusive products  ¿Ã‚ ½ e.g. T-Touch, touch-sensitive sapphire, barometers, altimeters and thermometers.  ¿Ã‚ ½ After sale service Tissot International Warranty and after-sales services  ¿Ã‚ ½ Premier event sponsor and Brand Ambassadors  ¿Ã‚ ½ Strong established Distribution network  ¿Ã‚ ½ Swatch Group has a growing Market share  ¿Ã‚ ½ The Swatch Group occupies a major position in the production and supply of watches, movements and components.  ¿Ã‚ ½ This ensures the integrity of the vertical manufacturing structure; it also guarantees the strength and credibility Weaknesses  ¿Ã‚ ½ Pricing for mid-range market  ¿Ã‚ ½ Small Presence in key market segment  ¿Ã‚ ½ Competitors successfully exploited the lifestyle segmentation which Tissort failed to accomplish. Opportunities  ¿Ã‚ ½ Gifting concept and Seasonality: associating with gifting and relations  ¿Ã‚ ½ Company can expand in to a niche market by launching products suitable for customers in a particular market segment like the youth, gift fashion, sports etc.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Enlarge network of the sales outlets.  ¿Ã‚ ½ World trend for highly fashionable products.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Increase in internet capabilities and increase in online buyers especially in the UK. Threats  ¿Ã‚ ½ World and Local Competition: 25 key luxury brands in the world, with their own branded watches.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Direct internal and external competitors in the mid-range market.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Cheap Counterfeits products.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Decreasing Trends in market. E.g. Use of Mobiles to get the time and the other features.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Worldwide decline in the production and demand of mechanical watches. 3.4 Differential advantage/ Competitive edge (USP)  ¿Ã‚ ½  ¿Ã‚ ½Swiss Made ¿Ã‚ ½ and 100% Market share for Swiss watches  ¿Ã‚ ½ Swatch Group Logistics Unit The Swatch Group Logistics Unit continues to work toward an integrated global Supply Chain Management system. A logistics information platform initially linking virtually all Group brands to the various international subsidiaries has been expanded to reach over 200 agents, providing them with up-to-date information on sales, inventories, and open orders.  ¿Ã‚ ½ European Distribution Centre Swatch Group Distribution has established regional service centers, among them the European Distribution Centre (EDC), enabling the replacement of countless local warehouses and information systems with a common distribution platform.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Swatch Group accords great importance to customer satisfaction, by creating a division dedicated entirely to Customer Service activities. such as the European platform for repairs of high-end products and the implementation of the Groups watch making schools in Shanghai (China), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Glash ¿Ã‚ ½tte and Pforzheim (Germany) and Miami (USA).  ¿Ã‚ ½ Tissot recently introduced a web application called 3D Augmented Reality that will allow to try watches on in front of the computer screen Focusing on the Tissot Touch collection, you will be able to virtually  ¿Ã‚ ½try on ¿Ã‚ ½ a selection of styles and colours. In addition, all the watches will tell the correct time in digital and analogue. (Europa Star, 2010) 3.5 Current product range of Tissot Table 1.3 Tissot Product Line  ¿Ã‚ ½ Global The Tissot T Collection Watch (model T50.1.185.60) is varied. This model is an elegant, womens watch featuring a solid stainless steel case and bracelet with butterfly clasp. With Swiss quartz movement and water resistance to 100 feet, this watch has suggested price of $375. The Tissot Seastar II Automatic Watch (T55.0.483.11) is an elegant mens watch with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal: set on a bi-color bracelet. Water resistant to100 feet, it has a list price of $200. The Tissot PRS200 Chrono Diver Watch (model T17.1.486.34) features: chronograph with ADD and SPLIT functions, 30-minute and 1/10 second displays and 60-second chronograph hand. Its also water resistant to 650 feet. With many other features, this lists for $450. The Tissot Oval-T Watch (model T47.5.385.31) is an elegant womens watch with PVD bracelet and a sapphire glass with quartz movement. Water resistant to 100 feet, it lists for $390. Other Tissot Series Tissot makes dozens of models and series. These include the V8 watch, PRS 200 watch, Heritage watch, Powermatic watch, TXL watch, T Lord watch, Quickster watch, the Atollo watch, the Bellflower watch and many others. Source: www.luxurywatches101.com Table 1.3 Product Range of TISSOT UK Brand Range Number of designs and watches TOUCH COLLECTION 12 T-SPORT 5 T-TREND 4/7 T-CLASSIC 4 T-GOLD 3 T-POCKET 23/44 HERITAGE 4 Each of these brands range offers a wide range of very strongly characterized watches. The attractiveness of the models, their multiple variations, and the combination of multiple specialties, their precision and their quality form an integral part of their fashion appeal, and meet the consumer ¿Ã‚ ½s many and varied needs. The unique characteristics of each brand are reflected in the models that make up its range. Summary of Key Facts Based on the above investigation it is evident that Tissot brand which cater to the mid-range market, has a strong support from the swatch group especially with its distribution network. But also it should be highlighted that esspacially the Tissot brand is not up to date with the current trends, for example catering to the youth, women segment especially in UK. 4.0 Recommendations 4.1 Segmentation Targeting Positioning (STP) 4.1.1 Market Segmentation The consumer luxury watches market can be segmented by: o Gender o Type of watch o Age o Socio-economic group o Life stage of the consumer o Marital status o Working status o Geographical region. The table 1 below lists the key aspects of each type of segmentation in the luxury watches market. Table 1.3: Types of segmentation in the luxury watch market Gender Type of watch Age Socio-economic Life stage Marital Status Working Status Region Men Mechanical 15-24 AB Pre-/no family Married Working London Women Quartz 25-34 C1 Families Not married Not working South 35-44 C2 Third age East/ Midlands 45-54 D Retired Wales / West / South West 55-64 E Yorkshire/ North East 65+ North West 65+ Scotland It has not been possible to obtain information on all the segmentation variables listed above. However, figures relating to gender and type of watch are available. The figures show that the overall market size of men ¿Ã‚ ½s luxury watches is larger than that of women, however this differential is narrowing as the women ¿Ã‚ ½s market is experiencing a more rapid growth than the men ¿Ã‚ ½s market. In terms of type of watch, mechanical watches dominate the luxury watch market. This represents a pronounced difference to the mass market where the quarts-variety is more important. The tables 1.4 and 1.5 below demonstrate these figures, Table 1.4: Luxury watch sales, by gender, by volume, 2001-05, Source: Mintel report, 2005 Gender 2001 2003 2005 (est) % change 000 units % 000 units % 000 units % 2001-03 2003-05 Men ¿Ã‚ ½s 294 56.5 312 56.2 317 56.1 +6.1 +1.6 Women ¿Ã‚ ½s 226 43.5 243 43.8 248 43.9 +7.5 +2.1 Table 1.5: Luxury watch sales, by Type of watches, by volume, 2001-05, Source: Mintel report, 2005 Type of watches 2001 2003 2005 (est) % change 000 units % 000 units % 000 units % 2001-03 2003-05 Mechanical 343 66 367 66.1 375 66.4 + 7 + 2.2 Quartz 177 34 188 33.9 190 33.6 + 6.2 + 1.1 4.1.2 Current Market Position Based on the market information, Tissot was perceived to be: o Elegant and Luxurious o Masculine and sporty o  ¿Ã‚ ½Established in the market ¿Ã‚ ½ and stylish o Innovativeness by tradition The graphs 1-2 below illustrate Tissot current positioning in relation to its competitors. 4.2 Marketing objectives and goals (SMART) The emerging segments in the market reflect where future potential demand might be strongest, and hence which segments the company should be focusing its efforts towards in order to build a profitable customer base. As highlighted in the analysis section, the female market for luxury watches is experiencing a stronger growth than the male market, making this an interesting segment for luxury watch producers. Also the younger market (in particular the 15-24 year olds and the 25-34 year olds) is considered to have great potential because of the importance of style and appearance to this segment, and also their generally higher awareness and knowledge of branding. 4.2.1 Marketing Objectives  ¿Ã‚ ½ Increase the market share of Tissot from 1 % to 5 % over the next 12 months.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Increase the number of distributors in the UK from 33 to 100, over the next 12 months. 4.2.2 Strategy The overall strategy for the Tissot re-launch campaign can be summed up in the following points:  ¿Ã‚ ½ To reposition Tissot as  ¿Ã‚ ½sporty, elegant and feminine ¿Ã‚ ½ through a re-launch campaign of the T-TREND, TOUCH COLLECTIONS  ¿Ã‚ ½ To generate an integrated advertising, direct mail, point-of-sale, PR and sponsorship campaign focusing on the themes: social responsibility and creativity.  ¿Ã‚ ½ To communicate the social responsibility and creativity themes to current and potential new distributors and 22-35 year old AB working women to increase distribution of Tissot watches and increase awareness of the brand. 4.2.3 Target market The Tissot re-launch campaign will be focused towards two distinct target markets:  ¿Ã‚ ½ In order to capture the emerging trends in the market, the consumer segment targeted for the re-launch campaign will be 22-35 year old AB working women.  ¿Ã‚ ½ In addition, a selected group of fine, up-market jewellers and watch specialists will be targeted in order to strengthen Tissot distribution system and thereby support the marketing activities of the company. 4.3 Desired Positioning On the basis of previous investigations it was decided that the desired positioning of Tissot should be  ¿Ã‚ ½sporty, elegant and feminine ¿Ã‚ ½ using Tissot ¿Ã‚ ½s reputation on an incomparable style and elegance. The aim of the repositioning exercise is to create a more distinctive image for Tissot, building on the fundamentals of the brand. Graph 3: Desired position of Tissot 4.4 Marketing strategies and programmes (4P ¿Ã‚ ½s) Product A watch can be describing considering it as three different products the core product, the actual product, and finally the augmented product. Based on the below figure Tissot should focus on its actual product offering especially on branding, style and fashion components. Place Swatch Group Distribution was formed in 2001 with the objective of providing worldwide support to Swatch Group companies in their efforts to stream customers with products in a more speedy, reliable and cost-effective way. Swatch Group products are distributed mainly via a global distribution network that has been carefully selected by Group subsidiaries, or by agents who have been authorized either by a Group subsidiary or directly by the Groups head office. Following methods are used by Tissot.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Monobrand stores  ¿Ã‚ ½ Network of multibrand prestige watch and jewelry boutiques.  ¿Ã‚ ½ airports, notably by running watch and jewelry boutiques As outlined in the strategy section, current and potential new distributors will be approached slightly differently for the new re positioning and re launch.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Current retailers will be contacted by telephone to inform about the forthcoming re-launch campaign.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Large, potential retailers will be contacted by the Tissot sales-force to explain the benefit of stocking Tissot products and inform about the up-coming campaign.  ¿Ã‚ ½ Small, potential retailers will be contacted through a direct mail campaign. Advertising strategy In order to increase awareness of Tissot and to induce demand for the products, a black-and-white print advertising campaign directed towards the target market of 22-35 year old AB working women will be conducted. The slogan underpinning the re-launch campaign will be  ¿Ã‚ ½Create a difference  ¿Ã‚ ½ take the opposite view ¿Ã‚ ½, and this catch-phrase will be featured on all the print adverts as well as other promotional material directed towards retailers and point-of-sale displays. The campaign will be based around celebrity-endorsement, featuring Tissots current ambassadors chosen of the re-launch campaign, reflecting the re positioning strategy, Sporty strong, independent and assertive women with a very distinctive style. The campaign will include a total of 66 inserts of varying sizes in the following publications:  ¿Ã‚ ½ The Financial Times  ¿Ã‚ ½ The Economist  ¿Ã‚ ½ Vogue  ¿Ã‚ ½ Harper ¿Ã‚ ½s Bazaar. The publications were chosen for its up-market readership and high quality print and colour reproduction. It is therefore assumed that the target market of 22-35 AB working women should be well reached through these publications. The frequency of the inserts will change over time to reflect the headway and general build-up of the campaign Sponsorship In the latter part of the re-launch campaign Tissot will sponsor two trade events directed towards professional women. The purpose of this is to promote continued awareness of Tissot, and to function as an additional reminder of the re-launch campaign as the intensity of above-the-line communication will be reduced in the Spring/Summer period. It is hoped that the sponsorship-strategy will enhance corporate identification with the target audience of 22-35 year old working women, thus creating a positive image of Tissot amongst this population. Pricing The pricing structure will reflect its target audience of 22-35 year old working women, creating a positive image as a stylish affordable watch. Also the pricing structure should reflect Tissot ¿Ã‚ ½s essential market position, the Mid range market. 5.0 Conclusion 5.1 Evaluation In order to estimate the relative success of the campaign in terms of its ability to achieve the stated marketing and communication objectives, a number of control measures will be carried out during and towards the end of the campaign. Increase in market share will be evaluated through tracking of unit-sales, using inventory data. The level of sales will be measured in 3 stages: before the launch of the campaign, six months into the campaign and finally after completion of the campaign. Increase in the number of distributors will be assessed by measuring the number of retailers before the launch and after completion of the campaign. Recognition tests will be carried out in order to determine the effectiveness of the advertisement in terms of increasing awareness of Tissot, and also if the media used were effective in reaching the target audience. Correspondingly, the achievement of the campaign in terms of re-positioning Tissot be evaluated using qualitative research obtained during focus-group discussions.

How Genders Are Represented In Video Games Media Essay

How Genders Are Represented In Video Games Media Essay This paper will discuss how genders are represented as well as perceived in todays video games. With reforming feminist and equality groups attacking every outlet of mainstream news, video games have now become the new mass media that remains the only real form of entertainment that truly represents modern day views and beliefs. Recent games have shifted the trend from the macho stereotypic male hero protagonist to a more feminine female protagonist with great success, judging by recent Portal 2 sales in which the main protagonist was a female. This also remains true with antagonists as well. Gender can be used either in a subversive or sexist way. Females are often objectified predominantly by using powerful visual dynamics. This includes their mannerisms, roles in games but most often, the clothes they wear. Sexism has often been a talking point from as early as the 90s. In Ann Cudd and Leslie Jones paper Sexism,  sexism is define as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ a systematic, pervasive, but often subtle, force that maintains the oppression of women, and that this is at work through institutional structures in interpersonal interactions and the attitudes that are expressed in them, and in the cognitive, linguistic, and emotional processes of individual mindsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ our very experience of the world (105-6). Censorship also plays are significant role on how genders are represented in video games. This greatly relates to nudity and sexual references. This could be seen as a positive as this forces game developers/publishers to think harder on the necessity that sex plays in their games. Is it really necessary and/or practical to have females represented as whores? Why should they be represented like this? Why are males represented so differently to females? You dont see many games representing males as whores. This is a good way of nailing developers into thinking harder about the characters, plot and settings. In the end, it comes down to how profitable a game can be and games do have to be tailored in order to be released in certain countries. One could argue that this damages video games as they have to be watered down potentially harming the games story, but does it really? Considering that many games portray females as sex objects and have no place in todays society, I tend to agree. As adults, we do have the right to choose what we want to look at but we also have the moral responsibility to do what is right, and this should remain true in video games. The games that will be looked at in this paper are: The Witcher, Dragon Age 2, Portal 2, Bulletstorm; and Hydrophobia: Prophecy. This will compare and contrast two game titles of similar nature in which gender representation in both games will be thoroughly examined. Game 1: The Witcher The Witcher is a role playing game delevoped by CD Projeckt RED STUDIO and was released as a PC exclusive in 2007. The game is based on a series of books by the same name by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. The game is based on a mediaeval fantasy world of Temeria  and tells the story Geralt of Rivia, a Witcher who was at some point killed or at the very least, near death but was later revived by his fellow witchers at their stronghold Kaer Morhen. Unfortunately, he loses his memory in the process. The player gains control of Geralt and lead him through a non-linear story in which the player makes moral choices that affect the overall outcome of the game. The game was censored at release in North America, Australia and the United Kingdom. This was later resolved through a patch known as the Enhanced Edition that failed to determine the users location (source), as well as improving on gameplay, graphics, loading times among other things. The main reason that this game was censored was how the game depicted women as well as receiving sex as a reward. Players were also rewarded what became to be known as sex cards, which depicted the women that you as Geralt slept with. There were also some modifications to the dialogue for what was said to be distasteful, for example, a scene where Geralt barges into a ladies house, Where the hell do you think youre going with all the dung on your boots?! Out with you! This was cut into Who are you? Get out! in the censored versions. One of the games focal aspects, apart from the immersive atmospheric world, story and gameplay, was on Geralts relationship with women. Witchers are generally perceived to be great sex machines but without the fantastic stereotypical looks (source). A good way to sum Geralt up is that hes an outsider, often referred to as a mutant in the game world and has many similarities, in terms of looks, to an albino. Relationships/sex does play an integral part of the game. Geralts choices in who he has relationships with, greatly affects the outcome, not only at the end but throughout the entire game. Women do have a dominant role in this game and this is evident with characters such as Shani, Abigail and Triss Merigold. All three are strong women and although highly sexualised, they do play a significant role in the game. Geralts relationships with all three, one as friends and the other two sexually, determines on how the game progresses in terms with the story. Prostitutes also play a significant role as the player can gain valuable information by both helping them on side quests and/or sleeping with them. A good example of this is Carmen, the madame at one of the brothels. She asks for your help on helping find a cure for a werewolf she loves in which you could either kill or save. At the end, you learn of the story on why she became a prostitute. A lady shunned by her father because she was raped and impregnated by the city guards. The game also implies, through dialogue, that she may have also been sexually abused by her father. What this shows is that the team at CD Projeckt put a lot of thought and meaning into the roles that gender plays in this game. While other games such as Grand Theft Auto put very little thought and reason into its ok to over sexualise women with rape, bashing and murder, The Witcher is one those few games that stands out in terms of both character and story development. It shows that in comparison to other games, women are strong, fierce and independent, and are able to stand up for their beliefs, ideas and ideologies. Game 2: Dragon Age 2 Dragon Age 2 follows the adventure of Hawke, a refugee from the nation of Ferelden who has fled to Kirkwall. The game itself is a series of flashbacks from the captured dwarve Varric, an old companion of Hawkes. The game was released on PC and Xbox 360 in 2011 by EA but developed in-house by Bioware. As with all traditional Bioware games, it features rich dialog, expansive worlds, deep meaningful storyline as well as strong willed women. In fact, Bioware put a lot of thought and emphasis in the roles women play in this games (as well as their other games) universe. Five of your companions in Dragon Age 2 are female. Females are represented to be strong, decisive, intellectual, cunning and possibly evil, and do play a significant role in the outcome of the game. At the beginning Dragon Age 2, Varric exaggerates and describes Hawkes companions with overly large bosoms which raises the question, why did the game developers choose to do this? This could be seen as a way of enticing male players (as well as females) into the game by over sexualising women in this fashion. It is a good marketing ploy by Bioware as it engages players, particularly males, to progress through the game. The game also introduces many relationships that the player may choose to pursue. It does contribute to the story in some way but it fails to play a significant part. Rather, players can choose to remain friends with their female companions instead of actively sleeping with them; it does not affect the progress of the game. Compared to the original, sex scenes are dumbed down. This is due to several reasons, specifically censorship. Many would say, judging by the complaints on user review site Metacritic, that this potentially damaged the game by ruining parts of the story where sex does play a role. Taking out true romanticising made the game seem unrealistic and gave the appearance that adding female companions did seem as an afterthought by the game developers. Are we to believe that there were no sexual tensions between Hawke and his female companions? Compared to The Witcher, getting interment with your female companions was a simple task of building your friendship bar by agreeing with your companions rather than taking decisive decisions, handing over gifts and teasing/flirting with them. The Witcher made romance seem an integral part of the game whereas Dragon Age 2 fails on this, adding romance seem as an afterthought and having no real consequences. Yes, females did play an overly important ro le in Dragon Age 2 but the romancing seemed unnecessary and could have been left out as it plays very little, if any, part of the story. Game 3: Portal 2 Perhaps one of the better titles to be released by Valve, its a highly entertaining emotional rollercoaster ride, one that will give you high hopes and later crush them. Portal 2 features a fantastic, engaging, hilarious plot (and soundtrack) with many twists and turns. Ironically, this game forces you to think with portals as many levels will leave you shaking your head is disbelief when a puzzle that should theoretically only take 5 minutes takes you more than 15. It certainly leaves a satisfying feeling when completing a complex puzzle.  Released in 2011, this game stands out from the usual crowd. Featuring a female protagonist by the name of Chell and a few helpful (or not so helpful) robot companions, GLaDOS and Wheatley, you attempt to transverse yourself out of the Aperture Science lab testing facility. Chell is portrayed as a strong willed and intelligent woman. The game steers away from hypersexualising Chell by avoiding somewhat traditional Lara Croft style clothing i.e. skintight latex, overly short shorts and/or a tight hugging bikini. Instead, Chell is represented wearing a plain orange jump suit which is an unobtrusive representation of the female protagonist. Most players progress through the game unaware that they are assuming the role of a female. Players only catch a glimpse of Chell when looking through portals as well as other reflective materials such water and glass. Both GLaDOS and Wheatley are treated in a similar fashion where gender plays very little significance, mainly because they are bots although this does change in the latter part of the game. We can differentiate between the two by both voices and attitudes, but not by outside looks. The writers at Valve provide a very interesting balance of power between the three characters. Choosing to represent female conflict by using emotional forms of abuse whilst avoiding any form of physical contact remains true with the stereotypes about women; they are cunning creatures. While in the latter half of the game, Valve took a feministic approach totally changing the dynamics of the game in which both Chell and GLaDOS form a working relationship and team against the common enemy, Wheatley. Wheatley is the only male character in the game. He transforms GLaDOS into a potato and attempts to murder Chell. This portrays both control and dominance that can be seen as subjectify women, either in reality or in the virtual world. From a feminist point of view, this form of behaviour is exactly what makes women put aside their differences (something which males cant do) and team up against the common enemy, proving once and for all that women are the stronger of the two sexes. Chell and GLaDOS are the two perfect examples of the two sides of femininity; Chell the domestic icon whereas GLaDOs represents the progressive, intelligent working woman. By killing GLaDOS, Chell can be seen as the dutiful safe woman conquering the dangerous feminist (http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/218960/portal-s-glados-as-feminist-icon/) Game 4: Bulletstorm This is easily one of the most fun games Ive played in quite some time. The gameplay is just absolute effin amazing fun! Coupled with an engaging storyline and a hilarious script, this game is definitely a game that Ill be coming back to play just for pure entertainment. Although short, this game in no way becomes repetitive as your environment, enemies and weapons is ever changing. Get it for the singleplayer as multiplayer is completely consolised, meaning that, it uses a matchmaking system which takes forever to connect. The only positive I can take from it is that you can choose to play with friends. Its another game that Microsoft has again managed to ruin with their GFWL. Game 5: Hydrophobia: Prophecy Conclusion Sources http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/04/19/qa-with-portal-2-writers-erik-wolpaw-and-jay-pinkerton/ http://www.popmatters.com/pm/post/140585-her-name-is-caroline-naming-the-misbehaving-woman-in-portal-2/ http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/218960/portal-s-glados-as-feminist-icon/

Gun Control :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Whenever some terrible act of violence occurs, such as a horrible school-shooting, people start asking questions and pointing fingers. They want to put the blame on someone or something. The blame is most often put on an inanimate object that does only what the person using it wants it to do. Guns do not cause crime and more gun control laws are not the answer. Gun control violates rights given to us by the Second Amendment, guns have proven to be extremely effective in deterring crimes and protecting private property, gun control does not work in controlling violence, and gun control goes against everything the founders of this country stood for. Gun control violates the rights that the founders of this country shed their blood for. Our constitution is the rights that the framers of this country put together because they felt it to be necessary for a strong nation. In it the Second Amendment states, ?A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. One would think that the men who wrote the Constitution knew and understood the importance of allowing a free people to have the right to keep and bear arms. Some would say that today?s well-regulated militia was the National Guard, but even if that was true the Second Amendment still protects individ uals rights to keep and bear arms. As Thomas Jefferson so emphatically put it, ?No free man should ever be disbarred the use of arms.? (Quotations 1) Thomas Jefferson, being a huge supporter of the right to bear arms, also said, ?The beauty of the Second Amendment is that it will not be needed until they try to take it.? Jefferson also said, ?The strongest reason for the People to retain the Right to Keep and Bear Arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.? He definitely realized, as did the other writers of the constitution, the importance of letting a free people have the right to Bear Arms. It has been said that guns just cause violence and are never a benefit to society, nothing could be so far from the truth. Statistics have shown time and time again that guns are used hundreds of thousands of times a year in the defense of one?s self, property, and family.

Rips Character and Symbolism in Washington Irvings Rip Van Winkle Ess

Rip's Character and Symbolism in Washington Irving's Rip Van Winkle "Rip Van Winkle" has been a well-known story told throughout time. There is not a doubt that as a child, many of you heard the words of Washington Irving's famous tale of the man who slept for twenty years. Nor can one forget the "elves" that Rip Van Winkle spent the night with in the amphitheater. Like many stories, Irving's "Rip Van Winkle" has been told so many times throughout American history that it has lost its original purpose. The story is now remembered for its fairy tale like quality and its appeal to the children and the young at heart. However, when given the chance to delve into the depths of what Irving was trying to portray, one may see the symbolism that played a hand in Irving's development of Rip's character throughout the tale. In writing this tale, Irving compares the character of Van Winkle and his wife to that of Great Britain and the Colonies. Rip Van Winkle was Irving's portrayal of the American colonies. Rip's character was described by Irving as a "simple, good-natured fellow; he was, moreover, a kind neighbor, and an obedient, hen-pecked husband." This description fit the ideal of what American colonist wanted to be. The colonist came over to the colonies to gain freedom from the crown of Great Britain, and in doing so, sought the life full of peaceful things. However, still being under the rule of Great Britain many of the colonists felt that they were still being pecked away by the hand of the crown. Although in a new country, they were expected to follow the rules and the ways of their countrymen over seas. However, by coming to the Colonies, these individuals as portrayed in Rip's character, although... ...ence a freedom that their parents only knew for the last part of their life. Irving does state that Rip had a flaw within the composition of his character. He defines Rip's character as easily distracted and averted from any sort of profitable labor. However, Irving does mention that it was not from want or perseverance. In other words, Great Britain would love to believe that because the colonists want to diverge from the rule of Great Britain that they are lazy and undisciplined. Unfortunately for the Great Britains this was not the case for the colonists. Since the American colonies were such a new entity profitable work was hard to come by. Therefore, many of the colonists found it beneficial to help others along he way. This unselfish attitude aided one's neighbor in getting one step closer to a goal of independence from the rule of the crown.

An Overview Of The Malaysian Energy Sector Environmental Sciences Essay

Natural resources such as the air current and Sun are efficaciously utilize to bring forth energy. Since these types of resources are theoretically infinite, it offers attractive force to be utilised and developed extensively. In 2008, approximately 19 % of primary energy for the universe ‘s ingestion is sourced from renewable resources. Large hydropower constitutes the highest per centum followed by biomass. Modern engineerings like air current, solar, geothermic and other engineerings produce really less of the universe ‘s demand. Figure 2.1 and 2.2 high spots the present renewable energy scenario [ 7 ] . Malaysia is a state that rich with renewable beginnings of energy, such as biomass, biogas, solar, and mini-hydro. Renewable energy is expected to play a larger function in the close hereafter in the position of the depletion of non-renewable fuels militias and growing in energy demand. The Malaysia Government is beef uping the function of the renewable energy as the fifth fuel in energy mix. However, the part of renewable energy to the entire electricity coevals mix is really low. As of December 2009, renewable energy merely contribute & lt ; 1 % ( 55.5 MW ) of the electricity coevals for the national grid. Malayan authorities has approved the Renewable Energy and Action Plan in April 2010 and will implement in 10 Malaysia Plan and beyond. In 2003, the entire electricity generated in the state was 83,300 GWh of which 72.8 % was contributed by gas, 16.3 % coal, 6.2 % hydropower, 4.0 % oil merchandises and 0.7 % by biomass and other fuels. Out of the 78,900 GWh produced by the public-service corporations and IPPs, 45,450 GWh or 57.6 % was contributed by IPPs ( Statistic of Electricity Supply Industry in Malaysia, 2004 ) . At the terminal of 2003, the sum installed coevals capacity of the public-service corporations and IPPs in the state was 18,800 MW with a works mix of 58.2 % gas turbine and combined rhythm, 19.3 % coal, 11.3 % hydropower, 7.5 % oil, 3.4 % Diesel and the staying others. The state ‘s electricity production from 2005 to 2009 is shown in Table 2.1. The entire supply of energy in Malaysia increased from 2000 to 2005 and go oning addition in 2010. The chief beginnings of supply were rough oil and crude oil merchandises, and natural gas. The portion of petroleum oil and crude oil merchandises declined while that of coal and coke increased, reflecting reduced dependance on a individual beginning of supply in maintaining with the Fuel Diversification Policy. In 2010, all of the chief signifiers of energy supply had experienced growing in response to spread outing demand but, consistent with the Fuel Diversification Policy, the portion of crude oil merchandises was declined to 61.9 % while that of natural gas was increased to 15.8 % in 2010. However, although rough oil and crude oil merchandises is still lend the greatest proportion of the entire supply, a farther addition in the usage of coal and coke had allowed some decrease in the one-year growing rate of the oil supply, while the parts by natural gas and hydro had remained about the same. The security, dependability, quality and cost effectual supply of energy had been enhanced through an optimum energy mix preponderantly from domestic beginnings. The monetary value of rough oil in international markets is expected to stay high so that farther efforts will be made to cut down dependance on crude oil merchandises and to use their expeditiously. Between 2000 and 2005, the beginnings of fuel for power coevals were farther diversified with the increased usage of coal, consistent with the scheme to guarantee security and dependability of electricity supply every bit good as to cut down the high dependance on gas. Altogether, between 2000 and 2005, a sum of 6,420 MW of new coevals capacity was installed. Attempts were undertaken to cut down the high dependance on natural gas in the coevals mix by increasing the usage of coal. As a consequence, the portion of coal in the entire coevals mix increased from 8.8 per centum in 2000 to 21.8 per cent in 2005 whereas that of natural gas declined from 77.0 per centum to 70.2 per cent. During this period the electricity transmittal system was further expanded with the completion of new transmittal undertakings associating coevals workss to the chief grids every bit good as supplying connexions to new industrial and commercial countries. Execution of the rural electrification programmed ( which now stands at 92.2 % ) benefited abodes in Sabah and Sarawak in peculiar. Peak demand for electricity was grown at an mean rate of 7.8 % per annum and reached 20,087 MW in 2010. Enterprises are being taken to further heighten the efficiency and viability of the public-service corporation companies and the independent power manufacturers enabling a decrease in the modesty border while bettering the security, dependability, quality and cost effectivity of supply to clients. The fuel mix for power coevals will chiefly consist coal and natural gas, with coal playing an progressively of import function. New coal based independent power manufacturer workss utilizing electrostatic p recipitators and a fuel gas desulphurization procedure will enable coal-based production to run into environmental criterions. In add-on, as portion of attempts to advance the optimum use of municipal waste for electricity coevals, a pilot undertaking on waste-to-energy is being implemented in Peninsular Malaysia. When Malaysia formulated its first energy policy, concern over efficient use of energy and the demand for energy development to take history of environmental issues were cardinal. These concerns were driven by the oil crises of 1973 and 1978 and the implicit in issue was the demand to guarantee equal and dependable supplies of energy. The Energy Policy of 1979, the National Depletion Policy of 1980 and the Four Fuel Diversification Policy of 1981, have provided the model for the development of energy supply. The chief push of the energy policy works within a model of three wide policy aims ; supply, use and environment aims. These policy aims are instrumental in steering the preparation of the Malaysia five twelvemonth development programs. Since so the focal point in the energy sector has shifted to the sustainable development of non-renewable resources and the variegation of energy beginnings. The Four Fuel Diversification Policy identified the state ‘s preferable energy mix as oil, natural gas, coal and hydro power. In 2001, Government articulated the Five Fuel Policy, adding renewable resources and associating this to sustainability and efficiency.2.1.3 Status of Renewable Energy Utilization2.1.3.1 Biomass EnergyBiomass is all the Earth ‘s life affair, dwelling of stuffs produced by photosynthesis or organic byproducts from a waste watercourse. Therefore it is a signifier of stored solar energy. It includes a broad assortment of organic wastes and residues, typically from the agricultural sector, forestry, nutrient processing sector, carnal manures, sewerage and municipal solid wastes. In photosynthesis, turning workss organize energy and O by capturing sunshine, H2O and C dioxide from its milieus. The energy may so be released either by burning of the solid fuel or by transition into liquid fuels such as methyl alcohol and ethyl alcohol or biogas which chiefly consists of methane and C dioxide. This sort of utile energy produced from biomass is called bio energy. Biomass is an appealing energy beginning because it does non bring forth CO2 emanations merely because when it is converted into utile energy, it will breathe the CO2 it originally absorbed during photosynthesis. Biomass power workss exist in over 50 states around the universe and are no uncertainty a major energy supplier for many states throughout the universe. It accounts to about a 3rd of entire primary energy ingestion in the development states. Even for industrialised states, the energy part from biomass can be important. The states that derive the larger proportion of entire primary energy from combustible renewable and waste are Finland ( 20 % ) , Austria ( 7 % ) and Germany ( 5 % ) [ 8 ] .2.1.3.2 Solar EnergyEnergy that can be straight generated from the Sun is fundamentally divided into two classs ; solar thermal and solar photovoltaic ( PV ) . In solar thermal, it can be in a signifier of active solar warming where the energy from the Sun is collected with either flat-plate or evacuated tube aggregators and is used for domestic hot H2O or swimming pool warming. Alternatively, it can be inactive solar warming that uses air to go around collected energy in edifices to cut down the en ergy required for warming of habitable infinites. For bring forthing electricity straight from the sunshine, there are two chief ways ; solar thermic electricity and solar PV cells [ 9 ] . Solar thermic electricity dressed ores sunlight utilizing a system of aggregators. The concentrated sunshine so heats the H2O to sufficiently high temperatures to turn a steam turbine and hence generate electricity. Solar PV cells use a particular surface that emits negatrons when exposed to visible radiation. The traveling negatrons produce a DC current that can be passed through an inverter to bring forth jumping current.2.1.3.3 Wind EnergyWind power is the transition of air current energy into utile signifier, such as electricity, utilizing air current turbines. Most modern air current power is generated in the signifier of electricity by change overing the rotary motion of turbine blades into electrical currents by agencies of an electrical generator. Wind power is used in big graduated table air current farms for national electrical grids eve ry bit good as in little single turbines for supplying electricity to rural abodes or grid-isolated locations. Wind engineering is the fastest turning engineering in the universe, turning at over 32 % on mean yearly [ 8 ] . At the terminal of 2009, planetary installed capacity was 157,899 MW of which Asia acquires 24.6 % . China leads the list with entire installed capacity of 25,104 MW to day of the month. India runs 2nd with 10,926 MW followed by Japan with 2,056 MW and Taiwan sits in 4th with coevals of 436 MW [ 10 ] .2.1.3.4 HydropowerHydroelectricity is a well-established engineering, and the first renewable engineering to be developed. It is already a major subscriber to universe energy supplies, and provides one sixth of the universes one-year electrical end product and over 90 % of electricity from renewable [ 7 ] . Hydroelectricity eliminates the fuel gas emanations from fossil fuel burning, including pollutants such as S dioxide, azotic oxide, C monoxide, dust, and quicksilver in the coal. Hydroelectricity besides avoids the jeopardies of coal excavation and the indirect wellness effects of coal-burning. Compared to atomic power, hydroelectricity generates no atomic waste, has none of the dangers associated with U excavation, nor atomic leaks. Unlike U, hydroelectricity is besides a renewable energy beginning. Compared to weave farms, hydroelectricity power workss have a more predictable burden factor. If the undertaking has a storage reservoir, it can be dispatched to bring forth power when needed. Hydroelectric power workss can be easy regulated to follow fluctuations in power demand. Unlike fossil-fuelled burning turbines, building of a hydroelectric works requires a long lead-time for site surveies, hydrological surveies, and environmental impact appraisal. Hydrological data up to 50 old ages or more is normally required to find the best sites and runing governments for a big hydroelectric works. Unlike workss operated by fuel, such as dodo or atomic energy, the figure of sites that can be economically developed for hydroelectric production is limited ; in many countries the most cost effectual sites have already been exploited.2.2 Future Developments2.2.1 Energy GrowthThe Malayan economic system coming out of the recent economic downswing ( 1997- 2000 ) in the ASEAN part, coupled with a positive mentality of the Malayan economic system in the medium term, means that future demand for electricity is expected to increase significantly. In the following old ages, the demand is forecasted to turn at an mean rate of 6-8 % per annum. Furthermore, Malaysia ‘s pe ak demand is forecast to 21052 MW in 2010 for the Peninsular entirely [ 18 ] . In the twelvemonth 2010 it was anticipated that the fuel mix in Peninsular Malaysia were 58 % oil and gas, 33 % coal and the remainder hydro and other renewable beginnings of energy [ 18 ] . This was non come without an environmental cost since the focal point is on coal and gas to provide the future demand for power. Extra coal and gas-fired generators ( 10 GW in entire ) will breathe an extra 31 million metric tons CO2 ( coal ) and about 8 million metric tons CO2 ( gas ) per twelvemonth. The entire electricity demand growing in Malaysia was about 5.8 % in 2002/2003. The growing in electricity demand was driven more or less every bit among residential, commercial and industrial sectors. In footings of demand, about all sectors exhibited growing in their ingestion of energy in 2003, with industrial demand driven by a growing in the fabrication and building sectors. Supply growing was driven by three major factors: Commissioning of new power workss, ensuing in an addition of installed capacity Greater imports of coal for power workss Completion of the State Petroleum Company ‘s ( PETRONAS ) Liquid Natural Gas works ( MLNG3 ) , built in Bintulu to back up higher demand for LNG.2.2.2 Malaysia ‘s Energy PoliciesEnergy has contributed significantly towards the rapid growing of the Malayan economic system. Today, approximately 80 % of Malaysia ‘s entire population lives in Peninsular Malaysia, the hub of the state ‘s economic activities. As Malaysia progresses towards going a developed state, energy ingestion will correspondingly addition. In run intoing increasing energy demand, concerted attempts have been undertaken to guarantee greater security and sustainability of energy supply. Consumption of energy nevertheless produces some unwanted impacts on the environment and clime. Hence, sustainable usage of energy is being given attending in Malaysia. Malaysia energy policy came in the 70 ‘s, a clip of lifting petroleum oil monetary values and find of new oil beginnings in the Peninsular Malaysia. A Petroleum Development Act ( PDA ) was enacted in 1974 and followed by the National Petroleum Policy in 1975. However, a more comprehensive national policy on energy came in 1979. This National Energy Policy contains three principal policy aims to steer future energy policy sector development. They are as follows: Energy Supply: Assurance of equal energy supply through the decrease of the dependance on oil, and through the development and use of alternate beginnings of energy. Energy Use: Promotion and encouragement of the efficient usage of energy and the riddance of uneconomical and non-productive forms of energy ingestion. Environmental Conservation: Minimization of environmental debasement in recognizing the supply and use aims. In relation to the dependability and security of energy supply, Four-Fuel Diversification Policy was introduced in 1981, concentrating on four chief beginnings of fuel, viz. oil, hydro, gas and coal which was besides aimed to cut down the dependence on oil in the energy ingestion, peculiarly in the power sector. This policy is so expended in the twelvemonth 2005 to include renewable energy ( RE ) as the fifth fuel to supplement energy supply from conventional energy resources.2.3 Renewable Energy Programs and Incentives2.3.1 Small Renewable Energy Power ( SREP )To ease the execution of RE undertakings, a SREP was implemented on 11th May 2001 by the authorities to promote and escalate the use of renewable energy in power coevals. A SREP undertaking can be more than 10 MW in size, but the maximal capacity that will be allowed for power export to the distribution grid must non be more than 10 MW. Under SREP, the use of all types of RE, including biomass, biogas, municipal waste, solar, mini-hydro and air current, are allowed. As in 2010, 43 undertakings with mark capacity of 286.15MW have been approved by the authorities utilizing assorted types of renewable energy ( Fig 2.3 ) , with the most approaching from biomass and mini hydro. However, merely ten 10 undertakings are presently in operation with a entire capacity of 56.7MW. Figure 2.3: Status and Potential SREP Projects in Malaysia Under SREP, the old Renewable Energy Power Purchase Agreement ( REPPA ) selling monetary value agreed upon by the National Power Utility ( TNB ) for all RE grid connected undertakings, ranged from 14-17 cent/kWh ( US4.6 cents/kWh ) . However, the electricity duty of 17 cent/kWh ( US5. 6 cents/kWh ) seems non to supply high adequate rate of return to pull investors or undertaking developers given the size of the undertaking under SREP. Consequently, the Government has increased the electricity duty for biomass and biogas undertakings to 19 cent/kWh ( US6.2 cents/kWh ) in September 2006 and later the monetary value has been adjusted to 21 cent/kWh ( US6.9 cents/kWh ) effectual August 2007. However, the monetary value for other RE resources such as Hydro and Solar remain at 17 cent/kWh. The addition in duty is expected to escalate farther the SREP undertaking development.2.3.1.1 Progress SREP ProjectSeveral RE undertakings approved between the old ages 2007 to 2008 hold made important a dvancement. These undertakings will provide a sum of 65.75 MW when they are connected to the electricity grid by the terminal of 2010. It is deserving observing that these undertakings have progressed over a period during which alterations were made to the cardinal elements of the SREP Program – viz. an addition in the monetary value of electricity sold to the public-service corporation by RE manufacturers, and the standardisation of REPPA to cut down the dialogue clip period ( or the demand to flush negotiate ) for RE capacity below 2 MW. These alterations addressed the two factors that were found by the 2006 survey to hold impeded the execution of SREP approved undertakings.2.3.2 Biomass Power Generation & A ; Demonstration Project ( BioGen )Biomass Power Generation and Demonstration ( BioGen ) Undertaking was so introduced in October 2002 with the ultimate aim to advance and show biomass and biogas grid-connected power coevals undertakings and cut down the growing rate of GHG emanations from fossil fuel by using extra oil thenar biomass residues. BioGen facilitates development of the grid-connected biomass-fuelled little power systems, disseminates awareness information in palm oil industry, provides edifice and proficient aid in policy preparation, and fiscal installation aid through favourable bank loans and revenue enhancement freedom among others. Some of BioGen important undertakings include the first 14MW ( export 10 MW ) power works in Tawau, Sabah which uses oil thenar residues ( empty fruit clump, fibre and shell ) that successfully mitigate 40,000 50,000 dozenss of CO2 in 2004 and more late, a 46.2MW and 500 kW power workss are grid connected and commissioned in April 2009 and a sum of 700MW off-grid electricity has been produced by private thenar oil Millers.2.3.2.1 Progress BioGen ProjectTo day of the month, merely two all-out theoretical account undertakings have been implemented and scheduled for committee in early 2009 ( some 7 old age s after the beginning of the BioGen FSM Demonstration Project ) , viz. : MHES Asia ‘s 13 MW IPP running on biomass utilizing EFB as fuel FELDA Serting 500 kW power works utilizing biogas from palm oil factory wastewaters ( POME )2.3.3 Malaysia Building Integrated Photovoltaic Project ( MBIPV )The MBIPV undertaking caters for the successful execution of GC-BIPV ( Grid Connected-BIPV ) installings in Malaysia under the UNDP/GEF supported Malaysia Building Integrated Photovoltaic ( MBIPV ) Technology undertaking. The undertaking period coincides with the 9th Malaysia Plan period 2006 to 2010. The undertaking includes the development of appropriate, proactive and incorporate programs and policies that will make contributing environment for widespread acceptance of BIPV beyond the 9th Malaysia Plan period to work solar PV energy in Malaysia. The Undertaking aims to develop the model for a national BIPV plan for the tenth Malayan Plan ( 2011-2015 ) and beyond, supported with suited and customized mechanisms for local conditions to speed up the market development and heighten the development of the PV industry in the country.A2.3.4 SURIA 1000Suria 1000, a national plan to promote the acceptance of solar energy, was introduced during the gap ceremonial of the International Energy Conference for Sustainable Asia on 27th November 2006. One of the major enterprises under the UNDP-supported Malaysia Building Integrated Photovoltaic ( BIPV ) Project, Suria 1000 targets the installing of solar cells at places and offices.

How far was the failure of the general strike due to the actions of the conservative government? Essay

The general strike of May 1926 was not a success for those attempting to force the government to act to prevent wage reductions and worsening conditions for coal miners. Had the TUC been more prepared to strike and followed through with what the miners wanted them to do, the government would have been faced with a much tougher challenge. Despite this, even if the conservative government were faced with a tougher challenge, the preparations and subsequence actions taken by them were more than enough and the main reason for the failure of the strike. Firstly the failure of the strike was due to the conservatives because Baldwin and his government holding emergency powers under the ‘Emergency Powers Act’, which enabled them to set up the Organisation for the Maintenance of Supplies. This organised 100,000 volunteers to be drafted in to help troops by moving essential supplies such as coal from place to place in Britain. Transport services were also kept going by the volunteers meaning that for most people, life was as it was before the strike started. As a result of this, the impact of the strike was not felt with the devastating effect to Britain that it could well have had but more importantly it kept people happy, which ensured that the government always had the sense of being in control. Baldwin and his government were able to appease the miners by offering them a subsidy in their wages for nine months. These nine months gave the government time to set up the Organisation for the Maintenance of Supplies and prepare for the strike which Baldwin was anticipating. The subsidy also created time for situation on wages to slightly calm down Generally it can be said that the conservative government had prepared well for the strike and thus as a result had full control over the situation. They had stockpiled resources, 250,000 special constables were put on hold to be used against strikers and local authorities were told to not give poor relief to strikers. Law and order was maintained almost all the time throughout the strike and violence was kept to a minimum and was well contained when it did break out. Baldwin and his government seemed patriotic which appealed more than the militancy of the strikers, and resisted the more extreme measures proposed by Churchill by turning down the need of the army to control. By doing this, he put faith in the British public, angered few people and thus had control of the situation. Indeed, the Prime Minister Baldwin spoke regularly on radio, and brought up the notion that the strike was a threat to the British constitution and challenged the government. Especially with the unrest that was being seen around Europe, most people in Britain did not want to see the constitution to be threatened. Vitally, several members of the TUC became worried about this and therefore there was a lack in confidence in the strike and it was not carried through with as much courage that it might otherwise have. As well as this the government referred to the strike as a ‘General Strike’ to create a sense the unions trying to undermine the democratically elected government. They presented the strike as the majority of the population of Britain being undermined by 4,000,000 union members. This didn’t appeal to most people and so they decided to not take part in the strike meaning it wasn’t effective and thus it failed because of the government acting to gain the population on their side by using the idea that the countries democracy was under threat. Despite the actions that the conservative government took, played the main part in ensuring the strike was a failure, there were also other reasons to why it did not succeed. Most importantly the TUC were not well prepared to strike and when they did, the 90 unions that took part were not fully committed to it. This made life for the government a lot easier than it could well have been if the strike had been that had they all wanted to strike. From the beginning of the strike there was a distinct lack of communication between the TUC and the local striking committees. On occasion such as at Swansea, the messages were so vague and contradictory that the strikers thought that the government were intervening with the messages. There was a lot of confusion during the 9 days and as it wore on the TUC knew that there was a strong chance that they would lose all control. As a result it was almost inevitable that with all the confusion, the strike would fail. The lack of unions that actually took part in the strike also contributed to its failure to both have an impact and to live up to its name as being a ‘General Strike’. The printers, gas and electricity, transport and railway workers were only some of a limited number of unions that went on strike. This meant that the strike could not have its effect that it was meant to. The fact that the general public didn’t give their support to the strike meant that there was a feeling around the country that what the strikers were doing was pointless. Indeed the way in which the TUC didn’t want to be seen in a violent way also meant that they did not want to be seen as revolutionaries so went into the strike half heartedly and thus it failed. The labour party and the trade unions had a very close relationship with each other. The trade unions had helped to fund the party. However during the lead up to the strike, the Labour party, led by Ramsey MacDonald, made it clear that they were not supportive of the strike. The relationship between the unions and Labour was especially important to the TUC and they did not want to break the relationship by striking. This meant that they reluctantly went in to strike and therefore the strike did not have the effect that the TUC would have otherwise wanted it to. The blame can also be put on the daily mail workers who went on strike. Despite the TUC not doing it, they were blamed for it and the negotiations with the government were brought to an end. As well as making it an uphill battle for the TUC. From then on the TUC knew that the longer the strike went on, the worse chance they had of winning and thus it failed In conclusion whilst the fact that the TUC were very badly prepared for the strike and were caught off guard by the Daily Mail workers, the government played the main part in ensuring that the strike didn’t spiral out of control by being well prepared. Even if the TUC had been more radical with the strike, it is clear that the government were more than well prepared to deal with violence because of the special constables that they had and the Organisation for the Maintenance of Supplies that was ready to step in as volunteers. As a result of the thorough preparation done by Baldwin and his conservative government, the strike was a failure. The TUC didn’t want to be seen in a violent manner so therefore View as multi-pages Topics in this document General strike, Labour Party, Lockout, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom,