Blue Cross Essay

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association is a  well established family  of health benefits companies providing health services for 100 million Americans. Blue Cross insured approximately 12,300 active groups as of October 1, 2005. The groups had a total of 47,000 enrolled subscribers and 92,000 members. This contrasts with 13,800 groups as of January 1, 2003, with 58,000 subscribers and 115,000 total members. Nationwide, more than 96% of hospitals and 91% of professional providers contract with Blue Cross company — more than any other insurer.Blue Cross offers a variety of insurance products to all segments of the population, including large employer groups, small business and individuals. The Blues currently serve 85% of Fortune 100 companies and 76% of Fortune 500 companies. Moreover, the Blues have enrolled more than half of all U. S. federal workers, retirees and their families, making the Federal Employee Program the largest single health plan group in the world. Th e Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies enroll in the Federal Employee Program (FEP) — the largest privately underwritten health insurance contract in the world — more than 5. million federal government employees, dependents and retirees. Blue Cross company established the appropriate operating mode according to the special needs of the local community, brings high-quality, affordable health care services to the American public, including low-income people, the elderly and urban residents. The applications will involve patients, doctors, businesses, medical education and research institutions and government decision-making bodies, and many departments.

Olivier Panis Essay

In der film ‘Der Promise’ gibt es viele eregnisse wie kommt zwischen Sophie un Konrad, zum biespiel. An der anfang das film, konrad zi gert wann Sophie und ihre freunde geht in der Abwasserkanal. Konrad war der eignisse leute wie geht nicht in der Abwasserkanal und war bei der Deutchse Armee ertappt. Das war nur der beginne auf der probleme wie kommt zwischen Sophie und Konrad. Konrad war aufgezwungt bei ihre vater der Deutsche Armee eintreten. Konrad war ein Wandschutze. Wann Konrad der Armee verlassen hat, er ihre Ausbildung fortgesetzt. Wi hrend das Sophie fur ihr Tante arbeitet. Ihr Tante arbeitet als eine Kleider Verki uferin, fi r reich leute. Spater in das Film, Sophie und Konrad andgeordnet in Prague zu Treffen. Sie mit einander sehr gut auskommen. Sophie kleide schwanger. Aber wann der Russe Armee eindrignt Prague, dann Sophie zuri ck nach Deutschland verschwindet. Konrad besucht Sophie und ihr neue Mann, und er auch besucht ihre Kind, heisst Alex. Er war 10 jahre alt. Aber Konrad auch hat ihre eigen neue familie. Aber wir als die Beschauer, kann sehe als sie mochtet zusammen sein. Die leben aus Konrad un Sophie ist wie die leben aus Berlin. An der Anfang, Berlin war zusammen, es was nur ein Stadt heisst Berlin, aber es war abgetrennt und so war Konrad und Sophie. In der Meinung auf die groi ji hrigkeit aus der Ureinwohner, Berlin sollte als nur ein Stadt bleiben, aber die Regierung sagt als es war erforderlich. Der abgang aus Berlin auch abgesondert Sophie und Konrad.

Anything that relate to Macroeconomic Research Proposal

Anything that relate to Macroeconomic - Research Proposal Example It is observed that illegal Mexican immigrants are less likely to become US citizens. Mexico’s close proximity to the US and noticeable difference in the living standards or life quality between the two countries are the major reasons amplifying the rate of Mexican migration flow to the US. For many Mexican immigrants, just finding a job is the main goal of their migration to US. Statistical data indicate that the rate of illegal migration from communities all throughout Mexico to the US significantly increased during the 1980s. Undoubtedly, illegal immigration has notable effects on the US social system also. This paper will analyze whether or not the illegal Mexican immigration would benefit the US economy. History of Illegal Mexican Immigration The history of illegal Mexican immigration can be dated back to the mid-19th century. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo led to the end of Mexican-American War in 1848 and this treaty reduced the size of Mexico by 45% because Mexico was forced to surrender the land known today as California, Nevada, Arizona, and Utah to the United States. Following the war, Americans had to recruit many workers to build a railroad and to enhance other infrastructure development activities. For this, Americans brought roughly 55,000 migrant workers to former Mexican territories during the period 1850-1880. American leaders were happy to welcome Mexican immigrants because those immigrant workers were willing to work under harsh conditions even though they were paid substandard wages. The immigration flow to the US particularly increased from 1910 with the Mexican revolution. During this period, nearly 50,000 Mexican people migrated to the US every year in order to find a job. American leaders welcomed Mexican immigrants with open arms until they realized that the employment difficulties caused was the result of the increased Mexican immigration. In response to the public protests, the US government forcibly deported almost 2 million Mexican immigrants, including native-born Americans, to Mexico in 1929. During the time of the World War II, United States was badly in need of labors and hence the country again encouraged Mexican immigration. Based on the Bracero Program mutually agreed by US and Mexican officials, Mexican workers again migrated to the US until 1964. Since then the US government and corporations has been indirectly encouraging Mexican immigration flow so as to meet their labor needs at cheap costs. As many authors point out, there is an unspoken agreement between illegal Mexican immigrants, the US government, and corporations. Statistics of Illegal Mexican Immigrants According to the American Community Survey, 11,478,000 foreign born Mexican immigrants were residing in the US as of 2009 (as cited in border relations, n. d.). Mexican immigrants constituted 29.8% of all immigrant populations in US in the same year. As Valdes (2012) reported in CNN July 13, report published by the Pew Hispanic Cente r indicates that over 58% of the identified illegal immigrants in the US are Mexicans. Surveys also report that Mexican illegal immigrants mainly reside in states including California, Texas, Florida, and New York. It is observed that the Illegal Mexican population tends to concentrate in a different set of occupations as compared to other illegal population. However, nearly 1.4 million Mexicans including documented and undocumented immigrants moved

How and why did the wind-turbine industry in Denmark become so strong Essay

How and why did the wind-turbine industry in Denmark become so strong - Essay Example Short term goal for 2020 is to achieve a 15% renewable energy component in the over all energy mix in the country. Replacement of existing facilities with import substitution and self reliance, and  de-carbonizing  the atmosphere to ward off extreme climatic changes are among other priorities. These goals for 2020 and 2050 can be met better by Offshore Wind Power Projects. The option to go for increased production of renewable energy sources will also help curtail the dependence on fossil fuels, and help meet the government’s goal of energy security and reliability. U.K.’s predominant position in the World as a major off shore producer of renewable energy will further facilitate this change. Export Income (GBP  8Million) and local employment generation (up to 70,000) are by-products of this initiative, (Connor, 2003). At the same time, a stable regulatory regime is a must for the fulfillment of these expectations. Support to investors in the prevailing uncertain e conomic conditions is another prerequisite.    Awareness of the potential of the Offshore Wind Power Resources to serve the Environmental  Ã‚  goals and the thrust towards developing these has to be tempered with a concern for its impact on the other users of the Sea and Coastal environment and for the purpose of sustainability. The existing capacity of 8GW energy production of Wind Energy in the country was sought to be raised by 25GW in 2007. The impact of this policy was reviewed later through a Strategic Environment Assessment (SEA) and concerns about adverse impacts on other energy systems addressed through mitigation measures, (Connor, 2003). Incentives for investment and innovation underpin these efforts in the energy sector. Consistent with the findings of the SEA review referred to above, the UK government has now decided to go  Ã‚  ahead with Round 3 to grant leases for locations for Wind Power facilities in the Territorial  Ã‚  Waters and Economic Zone of U.K and Wales.  There is no denial that the work in this segment is good for the Environment and Economy of  Ã‚  the U.K.    2.0 Fast Market Growth of the Wind Power Sector    From the days of tiny wind power units in farms, to the current stage of giant wind farms with utility level capacity for massive energy generation, the development of wind energy technology has helped bring down the cost of production. The cost in areas with good wind speeds compare well with the cost of  Ã‚  generation  Ã‚  in new plants using other conventional generation methods, (Porter, 1998). At this rate, within this decade wind power is poised to become the cheapest energy source.  Further reduction in costs will call for massive increase of capacity and a corresponding  Ã‚  growth of this particular energy market. New large capacity generators are being installed in Germany, Denmark, Spain, U.K., India, China and the United States.                3.0 UK Case Study    Following its acceptance of the European Union target of achieving a 20% renewable energy component in the overall energy consumption as power and heat, and in transport, U.K. is committed to enhance its production of offshore wind energy. From consultations made by the U.K. Government in 2008, numerous measures have been initiated to achieve the goal. On shore and off shore wind energy will make up 30-35 % of the over all increase in production.

Analysis of an Ethical Dilemma (Part Two) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Analysis of an Ethical Dilemma (Part Two) - Essay Example Life is a gift from God and no human being has the right to do whatever they please with it. She believes death is gods will and wish and everyone has their time of death and there is no turning back from this time. She is opposed to all forms of euthanasia, not just because she believes God is the creator of life or because of the teachings of the catholic church, but also because these churches and biblical teachings are supported by philosophical, ethical and reasoned argument that can be availed (Armstrong, 2009). As a Christian, Mary Gonzalez believes it is against her religious background and moral perspective to take her life or even request someone in doing so. She believes no one has the right to kill or assist in killing no matter how hopeless the situation. In relation to euthanasia being a way to relieve pain, to the suffering individuals, Mary insists that it is wrong and against the Hippocratic oaths of doctors. The oath states that, â€Å"I will not give a deadly drug to anybody if asked for it, nor will I make a suggestion to this effect or in swearing the giving of poison when asked for it.† The American Society of Internal Medicine and American College of Physicians do not encourage or give support to physicians regarding euthanasia (ACP-ASIM, 2010). Physician assisted suicide, she believes, deteriorates the trust that patients have in the physicians. The government is wrong to give any right to a certain group of people to kill other people. This is illegal and should be abolished. Instead, people should encourage the suffering and give them hope until God decides when to take their life. The biblical worldview according to Mary Gonzalez is a well reasoned and gives a moral value to the sanctity of life (Cox, 2009). This is because it is possible to point to a moral right or wrong. It is concerned with the good of the community at large while the secular worldview is more focused on the individual

ETHICS AND FINANCIAL SERVICES Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

ETHICS AND FINANCIAL SERVICES - Essay Example The asbestos inhaled by the workers during production caused asbestosis, chronic disease of the lungs (Upadhyay 2009). Asbestos is a mineral that is an extraordinary useful commercial property. It was used in construction sites, power plants, government projects and of most important was the building of ship. In fact, the James Hardie Industries (JHI) was known to have the largest labour force, which over saw its use in the production of fibre cement in Australia. Through this, workers started experiencing asbestosis after a certain period of time and complains arose on the claims for compensation for attracting the disease (Larson 1977) It was about this time that James Hardie faced a suit by the workers due to his ignorance on their pleas. His group sought to depress the issue by settling the cases through the establishment of a Medical Research and Compensation Foundation (MRCF), which was supposed to handle claims and payments of asbestos poisoning from its products. However those who were given the mandate to manage the research assumed a consistent position that the assessment of the asbestos liabilities at all the relevant times was adequate, with unrelated legal entity for which it had no responsibility (Sneyd 1994). Soon the foundation was rendered under-funded with A$293 million where an estimate of $2.2 B was required and this became a major public issue with the merging of various victim groups, politicians, and media personalities among other supporters who were pushing for intervention from the government. In response to their demand, an inquiry was set to investigate the Jack Hardie group. As a result, Larson 1977 argues that the MRCF was instructed by the government to offer adequate compensation for all the future asbestos victims who had worked at the James Hardie Industries (JHI). Due to extreme pressure from the government and the public, James Hardie

Poems comparison Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Poems comparison - Essay Example There is no irony or sarcasm in this poem, when compared with the other two. Barbie Doll refers to the chilling stereotyping a young girl, growing up, is subject to. She is expected to conform to unrealistic standards of beauty and behavior, to become a pleasing, plastic, plaything, and forget her own individuality. In the process, the girl loses her self-esteem and resorts to suicide. The only time that she is able to conform to society’s norms is after her death—which implies that these norms are killing. This urge to be stylish is referred to in Titanic as well. The urge is so strong that it is not unlikely that people, if given a chance might actually choose to voyage again on the doomed Titanic, just to be able to go down grandly! There are only two instances in the poem, where the poet uses some kind of literary flourish, by characterizing puberty as â€Å"magic† (a metaphor) and describing the girl’s good nature wearing out â€Å"like a fan belt† (a simile). However, beneath the mere presentation of facts lurks a suppressed emotion, which the reader relates to, and the result is therefore an evoking of similar emotion. Titanic, however, has no underlying emotion. The poem mocks at people’s tendency to pursue blindly, that which is considered fashionable—like lemmings rushing to a mindless death. But it certainly invokes in the reader, by its mocking style, a horror of our tendency to want to conform to the fashion of the day, irrespective of consequences. The poem highlights how modern media romanticizes even the most terrible of events, and the power of the media over our lives. Both Titanic and Barbie Doll are written in the third person, to achieve distance in the presentation, while Philadelphia, in the first person, immediately establishes emotional proximity with the reader. However, the first two poems have a certain tension, which evoke further

Constitutional Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Constitutional Law - Essay Example In this case, The Supreme court ruled that the search was constitutional since the object of the search was the probable existence of contraband in the vehicle. The major dissenting argument to this case came from the Robbins v. California (453 U.S. 420) case since an earlier court had ruled that searching contents of a bag within a vehicle was unconstitutional. Moreover, another judge argued that probable cause should not be determined by the police officer searching the vehicle but by an impartial judge or magistrate (Gardner, 2009). The judge cited the facts as seen in the Johnson v. United States, Giordenello v. United States and Shadwick v. City of Tampa 407 U.S. 345 cases. The US v Ross case is different from the California v Acevedo case of 1991 since in this case the police suspected that Acevedo was carrying a bag that contained Marijuana out of an apartment. In court, the defendant’s lawyers argued that the automobile exception did not apply to the contents of the bag and wanted the evidence expunged from the case. Justice Harry Blackmun ruled that the Marijuana could be adduced as evidence in the case since the police had probable cause to suspect the bag contained contraband. However, Justices White, Stevens, and Marshall dissented arguing that the police only suspected that the bag contained Marijuana and thus the object of the case was not met (Gardner, 2009). Their argument was based on the facts obtained from the Robbins v. California (453 U.S. 420) case where searching a bag was unconstitutional since it doe met the objective of the search which is probable cause of suspecting contraband in an automobile. The case of Wyoming v. Houghton was based on the search of a bag belonging to a passenger when a police officer stopped a vehicle driven by a drug user. In this case, the officer had the right to conduct a warrantless search based on the probable cause that the vehicle contained contraband. The court based in Wyoming

Teams progress Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Teams progress - Assignment Example †¢ What were the weaknesses of your team?†¢ What were the weaknesses of your team?Lack of experience on such team managed projects was a major weakness. Although Work load was equally divided by the leader division of work was such that one member assigned to do research work was not responsible for writing task. Therefore, writing standard lacked coherence of thought. Long-term goals got forgotten to attain short term targets. Due to given time limit, team leader could not justify with the given task. †¢ What do you like best about the team experience?  The best thing about the team experience was developing an understanding of what other members thought about how to work collaboratively, innovatively and at the same time respecting each other views by listening with patience. The feeling of team-spirit was so intense that no member felt bad when his research material was found irrelevant and discarded from the final output. †¢ What do you like least about your team experience?  Online participation through the electronic media via computers was the least satisfactory strategy in comparison to offline participation at the campus library and other designated places. It did not help in resolving the issues faced by members as the target was only on providing an update on current status. Members had to wait until the next face-to-face meeting to resolve issues, which caused a delay in timely submission. My experiences of the joint project have enlightened me on how to bring performance and excellence in the final output by changing my behavior and attitude.  

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (Cam) Essay Example for Free

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (Cam) Essay Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) includes a variety of interventions—from exercise and dietary supplements to stress management strategies, biofeedback, and acupuncture. These therapies—which come from many different disciplines and traditions—are generally considered to be outside the realm of conventional medicine. When used in combination with conventional medicine, they are referred to as â€Å"complementary;† when used instead of conventional medicine, they are referred to as â€Å"alternative.† In the United States today, approximately 75% of people with MS use one form or another of CAM, generally in combination with their prescribed MS treatments. Are CAM Therapies Safe to Use? Many people use CAM because they believe that anything sold over-the-counter at a pharmacy or health food store is healthy and harmless. However, unlike conventional medical treatments—which are thoroughly tested and carefully regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration—most CAM therapies have undergone very little, if any, scientific study. So some may be completely safe while others may actually pose significant risks—for example, by producing serious side effects or interacting negatively with other medications a person is taking. Fortunately, a greater effort is now being made to find ways to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of various types of CAM. Why is Controlled Clinical Studies So Important? Carefully-designed clinical trials are the best way to determine whether a treatment is safe and effective. Here are the reasons why: * Because the course of MS is variable, and each person’s symptoms tend to come and go in an unpredictable way, the only way to determine the effectiveness of a treatment is to test it on a large number of people. * Because most people—regardless of the disease they have—will have a positive response to any new treatment they receive (even if it’s an inactive substance or placebo), the effectiveness of a new treatment can only be proven by comparing it to a placebo or to another treatment that has already been shown to be effective. * Because every treatment carries with it the risk of anticipated and unanticipated side effects, the only way to evaluate a treatment’s safety is to evaluate it in a large number of people over a sufficient period of time. Recommended Guidelines to Follow People who are considering using a CAM therapy should ask the following questions: * What does the treatment involve? * How and why is it supposed to work? * How effective is it? * What are the risks? * How much does it cost? The answers to these questions can help a person considering a CAM therapy to weigh the benefits against the risks. For those who decide to go ahead with the CAM therapy, here are some good, common sense recommendations: Keep your physician informed about everything you are taking. Not sharing this important information is like asking your physician to treat you blindfolded—and knowing everything you are taking will allow your doctor to alert you to possible side effects or drug interactions. Dont abandon conventional therapy. The treatments your physician prescribes for you are the ones that have been evaluated in controlled clinical trials or accepted by the MS medical community as safe and effective therapies. So stay with your prescribed treatments even if you decide to add CAM to your treatment plan. Document the experience. Keep a detailed log of what you take or what is done and any changes you experience. Check out These Complementary Approaches to Physical Health and Emotional Well-Being * Food and Diet—Although various diets have been promoted to cure or control MS, no diet has been proven to modify the course of MS. MS specialists recommend that people follow the same high fiber, low fat diet that is recommended for all adults. * Exercise— Exercise offers many benefits for people with MS. In addition to improving your overall health, aerobic exercise reduces fatigue and improves bladder and bowel function, strength, and mood. Stretching exercises reduce stiffness and increase mobility. The physicial therapist can recommend an exercise plan to fit your abilities and limitations. * Stress management—The relationship between stress and the onset or worsening of MS is far from clear—and different types of stress appear to affect different people in different ways. But none of us feel our best when we’re stressed, so it’s important to find the stress management strategies that work best for you. * Acupuncture—Acupuncture is finding its way into Western medicine, with studies suggesting possible benefits for a wide range of problems. Definition of terms: 1. Alternative medicines is any practice that is put forward as having the healing effects of medicine, but is not based on evidence gathered with the scientific method. Typically not part of conventional treatment, alternative medicine is usually based on tradition, belief in supernatural energies, pseudoscience, errors in reasoning, propaganda, or fraud. Alternative therapies lack scientific validation, and their effectiveness is either unproved or disproved. The treatments are those that are not part of the conventional, science-based healthcare system. 2. Complementary medicines is treatment and medicine that you use in addition to your doctors standard care. 3. Dietary Supplements dietary supplements are substances you eat or drink. They can be vitamins, minerals, herbs or other plants, amino acids (the individual building blocks of protein), or parts of these substances. They can be in pill, capsule, tablet, or liquid form. They supplement (add to) the diet and should not be considered a substitute for food. Importance of CAM in Clinical Pharmacy Studying CAM is important in clinical pharmacy since it is concerned with drugs. If you have a patient who does CAM system, then you can be aware of do’s and don’ts so you can perform a better patient counseling. Since CAM is not suggested, but at least you know it, then you can support your patients regarding that. Situational Analysis Talk to your doctor about risks and benefits of complementary and alternative medicine Work with your conventional medical doctor to help you make informed decisions regarding complementary and alternative treatments. Even if your doctor cant recommend a specific practitioner, he or she can help you understand possible risks and benefits before you try a treatment. Its especially important to involve your doctor if youre pregnant, have medical problems or take prescription medicine. And dont stop or change your conventional treatment — such as the dose of your prescription medications — without talking to your doctor first. Finally, be sure to keep your doctor updated on any complementary and alternative therapies youre using, including herbal and dietary supplements.

Eco-city

Eco-city The concept of eco-city is sometimes regarded as a utopian concept that is not possible to achieve in totality in the real world. Write an essay to present your understanding and evaluation of the concept, using appropriate examples for illustration. The next new wave in city planning is Eco-City in response to global climate changes crisis. It is a relatively new concept, combining together ideas from several disciplines such as urban design, urban planning, transportation, health, housing, energy, economic development, natural habitats, public participation, and social justice (Register 1994). In simple word, Eco-city is settlement where it allows the citizen to live and work using minimum resources. In the past, most of the cities are small and within walk able distance till 1800. But the advent of industrial revolution changed all that, along with the many changes it bought about. The harnessing of steam engine make it possible for people and thing to move fast, that city which once was capable of handling itself could no longer sustain. The cities become crowded and that the living conditions become deplorable. So, the people moved to the suburbs. But along with the growth of suburban town and cities, the roads need to rebuild, housing needs increases along with consumptions of natural resources. Although the Industrial Revolution is extremely beneficial for the human and it had other consequences which are detrimental to the environment in the longer term. In physical terms, the revolution included a dramatic switch from the reliance on organic materials and energy sources to inorganic sources-that is, from wood and thatch for construction to bricks and iron; from human, water, wind, and animal power to fossil fuels(White, R.R.,2001, Sustainable Development in Urban Areas: An Overview). At the same time, Industrial revolution brought about population growth as people live longer. People become wealthier and they required more throughput and created more waste. Economist Herman Daly describes this transformation as increasing throughput of the materials, energy, and water that people now required for their daily needs (Daly and Cobb 1990). This caused accumulation of waste in the water, on the land, and in the air at very alarming rate. The natures of waste stream from human activities become complex and problematical due to chemical industry. Human and animals waste which are once broken down naturally by river became sewers. Everywhere rubbish dumps soon grew into vast nondegradable materials that soon fill many areas becoming a major feature of city in many parts of the world. The challenges from urbanization are becoming nightmare as more people are expected to move into city putting pressure on resources. Ecocity originated in 1975 when Richard register and few friends founded Urban Ecology in Berkeley, California, as Non-profit organisation to make built our cities in balance with nature. According to Register (1994), the purpose of urban ecology was to build in Berkeley a slow street which is to have many trees along road, solar green houses, energy ordinance, establish good and efficient public transport, promoting pedestrainization as alternative to automobile, holding regular conference meeting with different stake holder. But it was until the publications of Registers visionary new book called Eco-city Berkeley in 1987, that the urban ecology gained momentum (Roseland, 2001). And the organisations new journal called The Urban Ecologist. The organisation held First International Eco-City Conference, in Berkeley in 1990 and ever since it held conference every year inviting people from around the world to discuss urban problems and to submit proposal for designing our cities based on ecological principles.[1] In 1992, David Engwicht, an Australian community activist, published Towards an Eco-City, in which he talks about how city planners and engineers have virtually eliminated effective human interaction by buildings more roads, shopping malls, gutting communities and increasing dense traffic. For Engwicht, a city is a place for inventions of maximizing exchanging and having minimized travel distance. The book was later reissued in North America as Reclaiming Our Cities and Towns (1993). Engwicht talks about how city planners and engineers have eliminated effective human exchange by building more roads, taking commerce out of the cities into strip malls, gutting communities, and increasing traffic fatalities. A city is an invention for maximizing exchange and minimizing travel (Engwicht, 1993). He advocates eco-city where there is transaction of all sorts of goods, money, ideas, emotions, genetic material, etc and where people move freely via foot, bicycles, and mass transit and interact freely without fear of traffic and pollutions. But it was until the 1960s, the use of fossil fuels, chemically controlled agriculture, deforestation and depletion of marine resources was thought to be not in dangers. In 1987, the World Commission on Environment and Development (the Brundtland Commission), released a summary report called our Common Future which cause widespread concerns on world deepening environmental degradation(WCED 1987). And this pushed sustainable development on the forefront. Various industries and sector are also going for sustainable development. The issue of sustainable planning is also a concern for planner, urban designer, construction industries, development authority and the population at large. Register, Engwicht and Urban Ecology certainly deserve credit for popularizing the term eco-city in the last decade, but the eco-city concept is strongly influenced by other movements as well(Roseland, 2001). The mission of Urban Ecology is to create ecological cities based on the following 10 principles (Urban Ecology 1996b): 1. Revise land-use priorities to create compact, diverse, green, safe, pleasant, and vital mixed-use communities near transit nodes and other transportation facilities. 2. Revise transportation priorities to favor foot, bicycle, cart, and transit over autos, and to emphasize access by proximity. 3. Restore damaged urban environments, especially creeks, shore lines, ridgelines, and wetlands. 4. Create decent, affordable, safe, convenient, and racially and economically mixed housing. 5. Nurture social justice and create improved opportunities for women, people of color, and the disabled. 6. Support local agriculture, urban greening projects, and community gardening. 7. Promote recycling, innovative appropriate technology, and resource conservation while reducing pollution and hazardous wastes. 8. Work with businesses to support ecologically sound economic activity while discouraging pollution, waste, and the use and production of hazardous materials. 9. Promote voluntary simplicity and discourage excessive consumption of material goods. 10. Increase awareness of the local environment and bioregion through activist and educational projects that increase public awareness of ecological sustainability issues. The practical application of these principles has not been really encouraging for many years until literature that promotes the ideas began to appear. It appears in different terminology as per the oreintations of the authors. The Authors include Designers, Practitioners, Visionaries and Activists, and the terminology includes everything from neotraditional town planning, pedestrian pockets, reurbanization, post-industrial suburbs, sustainable cities, green cities and eco-communities. The Designers category includes architects, planners, consultants, and related professionals whose main focus in on the costs of sprawl and sustainability by design. The activists are most parts, writers, community activists and environmentalists who placed emphasis on community change within the context of society toward a more sustainable way from anti-ecological ways. The practitioners and visionaries are between the above two. The Practitioners represent politicians, local government professionals (staff from development authority, environmental management, etc) whose emphasis is more public sectors decision-makers. The Visionaries category includes agriculturists, economists, architects, planning theorists, and appropriate technologists. Visionaries literature is often directed toward professionals, academics, and other citizens concerned with issues such as energy conservation, appropriate technology, and community economic development. Although, the authors orientation has discernible differences in analysis, emphasis, and strategy between the variations as shown in table-1, the eco-city theme is can encompass any and all of them. Orientation Focus Means Designers Architects, plan- New develop- Reducing sprawl; design to ners, consultants, ments encourage the revival of and related profes- public life (e.g., townscapes, sionals streetscapes, malls and squares) Practitioners Politicians, local Existing settle- Local initiatives to create government profes- ments, munici- local sustainable develop- sionals, citizens and community organizations palities ment action strategies Visionaries Agriculturists, Communities of Reducing resource waste; economists, archi- association and energy efficiency, stressing tects, planning the- of interest, as passive solar heating and orists, and well as of place cooling; encouraging local appropriate tech- food production and reli- nologists ance on local resources; fostering creation of on-site jobs and neighborhood stores to revitalize communities and eliminate wasteful commuting Activists Writers and com- Human-scale, Decentralized, grass roots, munity activists sustainable set- cooperative development who consider them- tlements based selves bioregional- on ecological bal- ists, social ance, commu- ecologists, and vari- nity self-reliance, ous other kinds of and participa- environmentalists tory democracy TABLE 1 Comparisons of the Literature Catagories Citizen organizations and municipal officials in cities and towns around the world have recently started experimenting on this eco-city concept to meet the social and environmental challenges (Roseland 1997, 1998). Chattanooga and the San Francisco Bay Area in the U.S., Ottawa, Hamilton-Wentworth, and Greater Toronto in Canada, and Curitiba in Brazil are some of the earliest cities where this concept has been successfully applied. Curitiba, a small Brazilian city, is one of the most sustainable cities in the world. It has received international recognition for its integrated transportation and land-use planning, and for its waste management programs. The citys success is due to strong leadership-city officials who focused on simple, flexible, and affordable solutions that can be done at the local level and adapted to changing conditions. Throughout the project, the government promoted a strong sense of public participation by looking at city problems, talk to the people, discuss the main issues, and only then reach for the pen (Rabinovitch 1996). Jonas Rabinovitch, adviser to Curitiba Mayor Jaime Lerner, believes the lesson to be learned from Curitiba is that creativity can substitute for financial resources (Rabinovitch 1996). Emboldened by the success of the above projects, Designer and local government are planning for massive overhaul of traditional way of city planning. They are looking at a way to plan new cities incorporating the entire above concept. China, one of the world most populous countries in the world, faced massive environmental problem. It has emerged as major industrial power but at a great cost. The environment degradation are so severe that it is a cause for concern in china and could have international repercussions. Since pollution know no boundaries. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides produce by Chinas coal-fired power plants fall as acid rain on Seoul, South Korea, and Tokyo. Suspended particulate over Los Angeles city originates in China, according to the Journal of Geophysical Research ( The New York Times.) The Shanghai Industrial Investment Corporation (SIIC) hired Arup in 2005, to design a city which would exclusively use sustainable energy (solar panels, wind turbines and bio-fuels), self-sufficient and reduce energy consumption by 66% in comparision to Shanghai. The eco-city of Dongtan, which is be located on the island of Chongming, not far from Shanghai will be one of the world largest eco-city to provide housing for 500,000 people from rural areas. The Dongtan city will cover about 8,800 hectares which is roughly equal to the size of Manhattan Island. Dongtan will have ecological footprint of 2.2 ha per person by means of a combination of behaviour change and energy efficiency which is very close to limit of sustainability of 1.9 ha set forth by World Wide Fund for Nature. China is also partnering with Singapore to build eco-city in Tianjin based on three harmonies principles which are people-people, people-environment and people-economy. The 30-square-kilometer site is a wasted land and water scarcity area which will be built over a period of 15 years at a cost of around 50 billion yuan (S$10 billion). The criteria for selection of site are that it should be wasted land and water scarce area. First, restoring the jiyun river will be top priority for propose new city of 350,000. Renewable energy like solar and wind power, rainwater harvesting, wastewater treatment and desalination of sea water are some of the proposal. United Arab Emirates has planned to build the worlds most sustainable city, called Masdar City, initiatives of Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company. It is an ambitious project which will cost $22 billion to build a new, zero-emissions city for 50,000 residents in Abu Dhabi. The project is launched in 2007 and is designed by world renowned British firm Foster + Partners, and received widespread coverage in the mainstream press. The propose new city will have new university, the Headquarters for Abu Dhabis Future Energy Company, special economic zones and an Innovation Center. According to the designer, Masdar eco-city is to be constructed in an energy efficient two-stage phase that depend on large photovoltaic power plant to meet energy needs, which later becomes the site for the citys second phas.. The city is a car free, with a maximum walking distance of 200m to the nearest transport link and amenities. The streets are compact to encourage walking and are complemented by a personalised rapid transport system. Due to it compactness, the walkway and streets are shaded creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. The city will have wind, photovoltaic farms, research fields and plantations, so that it is entirely self-sustaining. Masdar City will be built in seven phases, the first of which is the Masdar Institute, which is set to be completed in 2010. The citys phases will be progressively built over the next decade with the first phase reaching completion in 2013(Foster and Partner). The idea of a city without any waste, landfill, car, self contained or without any carbon emission seem very desirable for a city but for some sceptic it a utopian dream which will never materialise. Sceptics are questioning whether totally designing a new city is possible incorporating all the eco-city concepts due to time and cost involved. They are concern that it might just be a strategy used to shield from environmental criticism while countries like China and UAE continue to grow along the same unsustainable path. Countries like China and UAE are in a position to fund such kind of projects and if it is successful it will create a precedent for other parts of the world as well. Unfortunately, Dongtan eco-city never materialise. Although, Chinese President Hu Juntao and shanghai major has shown keen interest in the project, the first phase of construction which is to be ready for Shanghai expo 2010 has not even started. The Dongtan eco-city in spite of being a government endeavour has failed to materialise. The mayor of shanghai is caught in corruption charges too. As for Masdar eco-city, work has already started for phase 1 as seen from fig 2 below. However, sceptics are concern that it might be just an isolated green in the desert where the rest of UAE proceed in the same line of big ecological footprint which is even bigger than United State. They are also apprehensive about the embodied energy used in buildings and infrastructure which are very high. The heavy dependent on technology for personal rapid transport and infrastructure is another issues. Since the technology for personal rapid transport is not fully developed and co-ordinating infrastructure with different agencies is difficult.

Comparing Imagery in Frosts Acquainted with the Night and Sexton s He

Imagery in Frost's Acquainted with the Night and Sexton 's Her Kind In order to maximize meaning and overall total effect of a piece of work, writers use various literary devices. These techniques enhance the author's work and add a dimension that results in higher reader satisfaction. Throughout the poems I have read this quarter thus far, I have discovered the use of imagery as a prominent source of literary embellishment. In particular the image of night is used in poems "Acquainted with the Night," written by Robert Frost, and "Her Kind," written by Anne Sexton, to portray a dark and lonely tone. All through both poems there is a dark feeling due to word selection and associations to evil things. The use of night in both cases helps to solidify the idea of loneliness. Each poem puts to work the same image to create the same affect but each work has slight differences and similarities in the way it makes night apply to loneliness. Imagery can be presented in many different ways. A strong image of night exists all over Robert Frost's piece, "Acquainted with the Night," due to a very descriptive representation of things that happen or belong to the night. By simply describing the details of night Frost can paint a picture of a lonely man. The key to using imagery is to choose images that have very distinct characteristics that associate themselves with that image. Frost's idea of choosing night to portray a sense of being alone is due to the connections of cold, dark, wet and unknowns that go along with the night. The same affect would not be able to be created if the ... ...unt the night with power. Through the use of imagery the writer is able to apply several different meanings by using one simple image. This makes the poems overall affect more efficient in making its point. The composition has become less wordy and is able to make a vivid scene with out the need of extensive descriptions. Examining the differences and similarities of the two different applications of night as an image of loneliness, is a good way to determine what the overall feel of the poem is. When reading these works one must take the existing mold of an image and see if there are any dual meanings of why the author chose that particular concept. The use of an image as a literary devise allows the piece to touch its readers on a more personal level.

Comparing A Cage of butterflies to Mission to mars Essays -- essays re

Science fiction produces a "what if" element that asks a question and prophesises the future. There are many texts, which presents the reader or viewer with a particular way of science fiction. The two texts, "A cage of butterflies" by Brain Caswell and "Mission to Mars" by Brian de Palmer, both of which conform to science fiction. The technology used in "A cage of butterflies" is of extremely high standard and produces a theme that prophesises about experimentation and mutations occurring on humans. The theme in "Mission to Mars" is about discovery, communication and reaching out to other life forms. In "A cage of butterflies", the research laboratory in NSW is covertly set, as what they are doing is illegal. The extremely tight security of the laboratory gives the reader a feeling that the research lab is like a prison or a zoo. This impression is also supported by the place where the babies are kept under tight surveillance and the way that they are being monitored through a glass window. The environment the think tanks occupy is more like a home than a lab, because they aren't aware of what is happening, so they refer to the place as the "Farm". The characters in "A cage of butterflies" are intelligent heroes. The "think tank" are a bunch of kids with an I.Q. well above 150. Mikki and Greg are the main characters, both born with natural leadership and who love each other. The babi...

The Holocaust Essay -- History, Nazy

For most people, the Holocaust evokes feelings of empathy for the victims, and anger toward the persecutors. The Holocaust, defined as â€Å"the systematic annihilation of six million Jews by the Nazi regime,† began with the rise of Nazi Germany (â€Å"A Historical Summary†). When the Germans lost World War One, the Jews received the blame. Anti-Semitism, or the hatred toward Jews, spread like wildfire throughout the nation. Hitler came to power with ideas of a master race, resulting in the persecution of many across Europe in what became known as the Holocaust. Although many contributed to the Holocaust, Adolf Hitler remains viewed as the main catalyst. Born in Austria, Hitler originated from humble roots and poor parents (Byers, Overview 23). Adolf decided at an early age to become an artist, due to the fact that he received the best grades in his primary school art class. Soon after entering secondary school, Hitler dropped out due to poor grades. After his rejection from art school, Hitler continued to live with his mother until her death. At age nineteen Hitler lacked an education, but needed money so he traveled around picking up any job available. At this low point in his life, Adolf Hitler decided to become an anti-Semite (24). With the start of World War One, Hitler became a German soldier at age twenty-five (23-25). His time in the army led Hitler to pursue a career in politics. With Hitler’s newfound goal of politics, he joined the Nazi party. Quickly working his way to the top, Hitler soon became elected the â€Å"Fà ¼hrer† or leader of the party. Adolf first attempted to gain power in the â€Å"Beer Hall Rebellion.† He led supporters to Berlin where the uprising was quickly crushed. With the charge of treason, Hitler s... ...y innocent lives were lost in vain including 5 million non-Jews (â€Å"Holocaust†). When Adolf Hitler came to power, Europe became entangled in chaos as millions of Jews and other groups endure persecution from Germans. Works Cited Altman, Linda J. The Holocaust, Hitler, and Nazi Germany. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers, Inc., 1999. Print. Byers, Ann. The Holocaust Camps. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers, Inc., 1998. Print. - - - . The Holocaust Overview. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers, Inc., 1998. Print. â€Å"Holocaust.† Compton’s by Britannica. 01 Aug. 2011: n.p. SIRS Discoverer. Web. 19 February 2012. â€Å"The Holocaust: A Historical Summary.† Beyond the Wall of Remembrance. Nov. 1993: 5-10. SIRS Discoverer. Web. 19 February 2012. Yeatts, Tabatha. The Holocaust Survivors. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers, Inc., 1998. Print.

Supporting A Family

Due to the present economy, individuals must have a varied career in order to support their families above the poverty line. While this can provide an individual with a stressful existence it also provides them with the ability to become a stronger person from within. Companies are resorting to part-time employees in order to cut overhead costs. With a company resorting to part-time workers they can cut the cost of having benefits as well as lower wages. For the worker this begins a long week of working up to seven days just to obtain the typical 40 hours. This is an exhausting endeavor. This increases the amount of time a child must spend in daycare which in turn increases the costs concerned with the day care center. The parent feels that they are almost always on the go just to support their family. Unfortunately this takes time away from the family. It also increases the family cost, as they must shoulder the burden of paying for medical and dental costs. A positive aspect to having a varied career is the learned ability to become competent in many positions. This allows the individual a wider range in possible jobs. From a personal viewpoint this can and will provide the individual with a greater self-worth. Sometimes this inability to obtain permanent work with result in an individual going back to school. This would be to obtain the necessary degree that would result in a better or more secure employment position. I am personally in this category. I have decided after 10 years of being in the work world to return to school. During those 10 years I worked at least 5 different jobs. This was defiantly not rewarding to my self-esteem and to my family as they have had to cope with poverty. I have returned to school so that I may provide my family with enough funds to raise them above the poverty level and to provide myself with job security. The way that the current economy works seems to benefit the employer not the employee. I hope that the future will provide more for the worker with job security. The ability to have a single rewarding lifelong career seems to have been lost within the system.

Legal Brief Essay

Case name, citation, and court: Ashley County, Arkansas v. Pfizer, Inc, 552 F.3d 659 (8th Cir. 2009) Summary of Key Facts: An ingredient widely used in Pfizer’s products is a necessary ingredient in the manufacturing of methamphetamine in small toxic labs which are responsible for dangerous explosions, burns, and toxic fumes. Arkansas has one of the largest numbers of small toxic labs in the US and is burdened with high costs of fighting the meth epidemic and is seeking to recoup some of the funds that the counties of Arkansas have spent. The Issue: Is Pfizer ethically responsible for assisting in the funding of fighting the meth epidemic? The Holding: Since Pfizer is a major manufacturer of products containing necessary ingredients used in illegal meth labs and the counties of Arkansas has been so heavily financially burdened by these labs, the damages are obvious. The counties have suffered financial loss from battling a drug that could not be made without the ingredients in Pfizer’s products. Because of these damages and Pfizer’s role in the supply of ingredients to drug labs, it is the responsibility of Pfizer to either, repay the counties and finance the future costs of fighting the meth epidemic or find alternative ingredients to use in their products that cannot be used in the manufacture of meth. Summary of Your Reasoning: It is the corporate responsibility of Pfizer to assist in funding the counties’ operations battling meth. Under a corporate citizenship view, Pfizer is responsible for contributing to the solution of the social problem that their products create. Meth is an epidemic rapidly sweeping the nation and it is the responsibility of anyone, or company, with any tie to the drug at all, to contribute to the solution, the same amount that they contribute to the problem.

Pillsbury Case Marketing

Mike Johnson Pillsbury Case Beth Gallant 1) What are the challenges that Ivan Guillen faces in his role as marketing manager of the RBG business? As marketing manager of the RBG business, Ivan Guillen must propose a solution to repair Pillsbury refrigerated baked goods (RGB)’s business performance. Since the refrigerated-cookie product line consisted of 62% of RBG’s unit sales and over 75% of the company’s profits, Guillen found it appropriate to alter this segment in the market.Proposing this idea to GMCC would require Guillen to consider all the challenges he faces. Guillen will have to discover a strategy to increase household penetration since it has fallen to 24% in the past few years. The lack in market penetration has caused a miniscule growth of only one percent in the past three years. In order for Guillen to increase the penetration percent, he will need to reevaluate the â€Å"Kisses† commercial. The assessment of this advertisement revealed the lack of effectiveness for brand recognition and relevance. Introducing.Also, when reviewing the â€Å"Purchase Drivers In Canada As Compared To The US† it is apparent that consumers are concerned with the quality of the dough, the flavors offered, and the amount of cookies offered. Either Guillen is going to need to draw up a marketing plan that addresses these issues are alter the cookie in some way. Lastly, Guillen will have to conduct marketing research to understand the difference between Canadian and US markets. The â€Å"Kisses† commercial was adopted from the US and slightly changed for the Canadian market.Seeing as it failed to generate the projected annual growth of five to seven percent, there is a clear difference between the Canadian and US advertising markets. 2) What are consumer insights (in general)? What types of business challenges can benefit from consumer insights? How are these insights obtained? Consumer insight is when a marketer researches unid entified/unmet needs in the marketplace or a new/better way to satisfy an existing need. The job of the marketer is to analyze the information and capitalize on the identified need.There are two main types of research, quantitative and qualitative. Quantitative research revolves around the measurement and analysis of relationships between variables. Random sampling techniques, like questionnaires and surveys, provide marketers with results that can be generalized to a larger population. Qualitative research, on the other hand, takes on a more understanding and conceptual approach. Through focus groups, marketers can gather an in-depth understanding of consumer behavior.The most common type of research used at GMCC are the focus groups. Focus groups are where a small group of people have a moderated discussion about a marketing-oriented issue. The group then summarizes its opinions and eventually comes to a solution they find fit. Summarizing all of the opinions of the focus groups c an aid in new product development, brand messaging, and promotional campaigns. Another type of marketing research GMCC uses are concept tests. Concept tests are commonly used to improve new product development and develop brand messaging.Concept tests provide an image of the product, pricing information, instructions, and key benefits to a consumer in verbal or visual form. The consumer then quantitatively evaluates the product by stating their degree of purchase intent. Lastly, GMCC also performs creative testing in order to evaluate the effectiveness of ads. When an add is put through the creative test, they are being judged on their purchase intent, relevance, and brand linkage scores. Having a powerful add that influences the consumer can significantly increase brand recognition.This â€Å"Kisses† commercial that Pillsbury had launched in Canada did not meet its expectations due to the lack of creative testing. 3) Given the key learnings from the usage and attitude study on pp 6-7 of the case, what are the corresponding implications for what actions the team should take? (Format this into a chart of key learning, implication, action) Key Learning| Implication| Action| Scratch baking is the dominant method of baking cookies in Canada. In Canada, 56% bake only from scratch. In the US, use of refrigerated dough is the most popular baking method. The refrigerated dough market does not seem to have a strong presence in Canada. It seems as if people are either unaware of refrigerated dough or they just do not prefer it. | Either research how to make refrigerated dough more appealing to Canadian consumers or ignore the Canadian market and focus on the US market (since it has a stronger demand for refrigerated dough). | Top four purchase drivers are the same in both countries. Convenience and taste are at the top of both lists. The quality of the cookie dough is not valued as highly in Canada and kids have more of an influence in driving purchases. Clearly there is a big gap between the quality perception in Canada and the United States. Canadian consumers are implying that they want a higher quality product and a product that is more convenient for children. | Propose a marketing strategy that addresses the quality of the cookie or targets children. Since children have a stronger influence in Canadian markets than US markets, reaching out to them could increase brand recognition and sales. | Both users and lapsed users perceive refrigerated cookie dough as convenient.Lapsed agree that RBG cookies are convenient, but non-users do not rate them as convenient. | Lapsed and current users agree on convenience, leaving marketers to believe this is actually true. Non-users, however, are not receiving this message. Non-users in Canada are not as aware of the product as they should be. | Reaching out to non-users through ads and commercials can increase the convenience recognition for RBG cookies. If non-users considered the cookies convenien t they would be more likely to purchase them. | 4) Why did Guillen and his team conduct the in-home and discovery workshops?To find out what? Conducting a qualitative research was proposed in order to gain a better understanding of consumer perceptions, beliefs, and feelings towards RBG cookies. The usage and attitude study portrayed the differences between Canada and the United States, whereas this study will determine which aspects of the baking experience are most appealing to consumers. The ethnography study RBG conducted, In-home Immersions, sought to gain an in-depth understanding of personal motivations and actions towards a particular product. RBG entered the homes of two lapsed users and wo brand champions while the consumers were baking the good. During the visit, the marketers hoped to develop an understanding of the consumer-brand relationship, what surrounds it, the environment around it, and the bigger-picture influences. For example, RBG found out that when it came to feeding the family, the solutions had to be easy, quick, and pleasing to children. It also showed the sense of happiness that arises when baking occurs. Knowing this information could help propose the idea of implementing comfortable implications in future ads.The discovery workshop was similar to the ethnography study, except the study group consisted of 18-27 consumers working together. This comfortable environment allows consumers to discuss opportunities and criticize issues of the product. 6) What actions would you suggest that Guillen and his team take? a. What should their value proposition be? b. Which consumers should they target? Why? c. What should the brand messaging be? Guillen has numerous tough decisions ahead of him when proposing his new marketing strategy.However, Guillen conducted a multitudinous of studies to provide him some insight on what an appropriate solution would be. In terms of the product itself, there are many alterations that could be made. Children have more of an influence in Canadian markets than in US markets. Providing kid themed offerings could increase brand recognition and demand from children. Simple ideas such as adding famous cartoon characters or sports themes could sway a child to want RBG cookies. Also, adding new flavors/types of cookies could increase the width of customers.Providing healthier options, dietary restrictions (gluten free, low sodium), and new flavors would reach out to more consumers. Expanding new product development would also be benefit to brand recognition. Providing Pillsbury baking tools like cookie cutters, timers, oven mitts, and aprons would cause the experience of baking to be more enjoyable. Another recommendation to Guillen would be to re-new and strengthen relationships with consumers. In doing so, Guillen should stress the nostalgic and experiential aspect.Through the in-home study, it has been concluded that baking introduces a sense of happiness in the kitchen. Having this percepti on instilled in a consumers mind may persuade them to purchase the refrigerated dough for themselves or as a gift. Having a celebrity spokesperson influence consumers can have a positive impact as well. In previous commercials, RBG cookies solely relied on the Pillsbury doughboy. Although he is a very recognizable character, maybe the consumers do not find him as trustworthy as they would a celebrity.The celebrity could stress the easiness, convenience, and â€Å"homemade† feeling RBG cookies provide. In-store display and packaging also has a significant impact on the consumer. Having a brand portrayed in a positive way gives the consumer the feeling that he or she is making the right choice. Research showed that most purchases of refrigerated dough were out of impulse. Sales can simply increase by strategically placing the product to locations where consumers frequently buy on impulse. Increasing the visibility with the doughboy logo would have the consumers more likely thin king about the product.If the cookies are going to be strategically placed and visible, then they are going to need to have attractive packaging. Offering trial packages with three different flavors would also allow consumers to have the opportunity to try out new flavors. Offering different serving sizes and holiday themes also expands the horizon of consumer tastes and preferences. In the short run, investing in social media, advertisement, and a spokesperson is most beneficial action to take. It is a quick opportunity for consumers to be persuaded into purchasing the object.However, in the long run it would be most beneficial to introduce new product flavors and healthy and dietary restrictive options. By renewing and strengthening its relationship with existing and lapsed consumers, Pillsbury can increase household penetration. Changing the perception of the product in the minds of the consumer from food to family activity/gift can influence the non-users to sample the product. Lastly, acknowledging new 21st century dynamics of healthy lifestyles and smaller servings can appeal to new market segments and eventually increase sales.

Industry Analysis of Airlines Industry

Banking history in Nepal: In the context of Nepal, it is very difficult to trace the correct chorological history of the Banking systems in Nepal because there are no sufficient historical records and data about Banking in Nepal. Nepal bank Ltd. is the first modern bank of Nepal. It is taken as the milestone of modern banking of the country. Nepal bank marks the beginning of a new era in the history of the modern banking in Nepal. This was established in 1937 A. D. Nepal Bank has been inaugurated by King Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah Dev on 30th Kartik 1994 B.S. Nepal bank was established as a semi government bank with the authorized capital of Rs. 10 million and the paid -up capital of Rs. 892 thousand. Until mid-1940s, only metallic coins were used as medium of exchange. So the Nepal Government (His Majesty Government on that time) felt the need of separate institution or body to issue national currencies and promote financial organization in the country. Nepal Bank Ltd. remained the o nly financial institution of the country until the foundation of Nepal Rastra Bank is 1956 A.D. Due to the absence of the central bank, Nepal Bank has to play the role of central bank and operate the function of central bank. Hence, the Nepal Rastra Bank Act 1955 was formulated, which was approved by Nepal Government accordingly, the Nepal Rastra Bank was established in 1956 A. D. as the central bank of Nepal. Nepal Rastra Bank makes various guidelines for the banking sector of the country. A sound banking system is important for smooth development of banking system. It can play a key role in the economy.It gathers savings from all over the country and provides liquidity for industry and trade. In 1957 A. D. Industrial Development Bank was established to promote the industrialization in Nepal, which was later converted into Nepal Industrial Development Corporation (NIDC) in 1959 A. D. Rastriya Banijya Bank was established in 1965 A. D. as the second commercial bank of Nepal. The fin ancial shapes for these two commercial banks have a tremendous impact on the economy. That is the reason why these banks still exist in spite of their bad position.As the agriculture is the basic occupation of major Nepalese, the development of this sector plays in the prime role in the economy. So, separate Agricultural Development Bank was established in 1968 A. D. This is the first institution in agricultural financing. For more than two decades, no more banks have been established in the country. After declaring free economy and privatization policy, the government of Nepal encouraged the foreign banks for joint venture in Nepal. Today, the banking sector is more liberalized and modernized and systematic managed.There are various types of bank working in modern banking system in Nepal. It includes central, development, commercial, financial, co-operative and Micro Credit (Grameen) banks. Technology is changing day by day. And changed technology affects the traditional method of the service of bank. Banking software, ATM, E-banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card, Prepaid Card etc. services are available in banking system in Nepal. It helps both customer and banks to operate and conduct activities more efficiently and effectively.For the development of banking system in Nepal, NRB refresh and change in financial sector policies, regulations and institutional developments in 1980 A. D. Government emphasized the role of the private sector for the investment in the financial sector. These policies opened the doors for foreigners to enter into banking sector in Nepal under joint venture. Some foreign ventures are also established in Nepal such as Nepal Bangladesh Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Nepal Arab Bank, State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, Everest Bank, Himalayan Bank, Bank of Kathmandu, Nepal Indo-Suez Bank and Nepal Sri Lanka Merchant Bank etc.The NRB will classify the institutions into â€Å"A† â€Å"B† â€Å"C† â€Å"D† groups on the basis of the minimum paid-up capital and provide the suitable license to the bank or financial institution. Group ‘A’ is for commercial bank, ‘B’ for the development bank, ‘C’ for the financial institution and ‘D’ for the Micro Finance Development Banks. Generally banks in Nepal are opened 9 am to 3 pm Sunday to Thursday and 9 am to 1 am on Friday. But nowadays most of banks in Kathmandu are opened throughout the week.There are 32 commercial banks, 79 development banks, 79 financial companies, 18 micro credit (Grameen) development banks and 16 saving and credit co-operation(licensed by Nepal Rastra Bank) are established so far in Nepal. The bank with the largest network in Nepal is The Nepal Bank Ltd. These commercial banks and financial institutions have played significant roles in creating banking habit among the people, widening area and business communities and the government in various ways.

The effect of salt temperature on ice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The effect of salt temperature on ice - Essay Example These bonds hold the molecules together forming the solid ice (Churchill et al). The salt ions dissolved alter the existing hydrogen bonding in the solid ice and this has an effect on the normal freezing point of the ice causing the temperatures to drop. In this experiment we are going to determine the effect of salt on the temperature of ice. In the first bowl, when the salt is added on the ice, at first nothing happens but after sometime, the temperature of the ice drops before the ice starts melting. The ice the melts gradually and the temperature increases. In the second bowl, the ice starts melting at 0oC a.nd melts gradually as temperatures increases. When salt is added to ice, it is able to lower the freezing point of any water molecules that are on the surface of the ice and this prevents it from freezing again hence helping to melt the ice surrounding the solid ice. Water that is pure in nature has its freezing point fixed at 0oC while salt is able to melt down ice to a temperature of about

Business Ethics and Deontology SLP Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Business Ethics and Deontology SLP - Essay Example I am the chief accountant of the company and so responsible for payments of these tenders. My work involves processing of payments and writing of cheques for these suppliers. In the process of doing my work, I realized that some of the tenders were awarded against the company rules, and this is considered to be unethical (Barry, 2000). The ethical problem here is that a supplier was given a tender for supplying computers in our company. When you look at the price quoted, you realize that it is much higher than other suppliers. The question is how did it happen? Why did it happen? Who were responsible for the process of awarding the tender? What was the objective of awarding the tender? As an accountant, I demanded to get all the answers for the above questions (Barry, 2000). This made me stop the payment process and start making inquiries. Management meeting was called very first and the main agenda was computer supply allocation. As a business entity, our main objective is to reduce cost and maximize profit. We realized that of all applicants, the person who supplied computers were the most expensive. One of the senior managers of the company gave an explanation that the person was given the tender because of the quality goods he assured the company. When you compare what the company had previously with the new computers, no difference was realized. That is when I realized that there was some vested interest by some of the managers to award tenders to their friends so that the suppliers can inflate the prices. Deontology refers to moral obligation and undertaking of duties with the right motives (Darwall, 2003). In this case, the deontological implication of this problem is poor management relations. This is because as a company, we have managers responsible for each department within the organization. It is the managers’ duty to give directions on what is expected. For our case, a group of managers decided to go against the company rules

Product Innovation and Pricing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Product Innovation and Pricing - Essay Example The camera has an automatic mode which will enable reasonable quality photographs by even people with minimal knowledge of the subject. The price at less than $300 is attractive by market conditions. Here is a camera for the amateur photographer which is easy to carry and to use, with the potential to take sharp and good quality photographs with simplicity. The camera is clearly on the upper right quadrant of a VO Grid, and has the potential to participate aggressively in the emergent mass market for basic digital cameras for amateur use. The Canon Power Shot S3 is a study in contrast with the earlier model. It meets the special needs of photography enthusiasts and professionals who may wish to take sharp photographs of objects and people at long distances. The technical features and capabilities of this product sacrifice convenience almost entirely because it is large enough to require a case of its own and would need to be slung around the user's neck. It can draw attention in a social situation which many people would not like. However, it does offer physical evidence of the user being a photography enthusiast or even a professional. This camera cost about $500, which means that only those committed to regular and specialized use would be willing to make purchase decisions in its favor. The major value proposition is the 12x zoom which a relatively small niche of people may value. It offers high value for a certain target, but would not be of interest to most consumers. The Canon Power Shot A 540 has 3 direct competitors: the Casio Exilim EX-Z850, the Fujifilm FinePix F 10, and the Sony Cyber Shot DSC-T9. The relative inconvenience of conventional film cameras implies that the indirect competition is not serious. The high resolution and high portability of these cameras place them in a category distinct from video cameras. The market segment of amateurs, who need a convenient and easy solution for occasional photographs, is adequately met by these four brands to compete adequately with each other as a set. The Fujifilm presents a strong challenge with a price tag just below $200. It is an important benefit for the company to promote and has the potential to hit its 3 competitors hard. The Sony, with a 58 MB memory, has a key advantage of being able to store significantly more images than any of the competitors. Running out of memory can be a common problem on any occasion, and it may not always be possible to transfer records to storage media at frequent intervals. The Sony therefore offers a value parameter that the competition cannot match, hence Sony should be able to use this feature to gain market share. The Casio, with 8.1 Mega Pixels can offer large prints of excellent resolution, but most people who would value this feature may opt for more professional cameras. However, there is scope for Casio to add plenty of service (Payne, 2002) by way of creating awareness of the advantages of large prints, in order to create new demand for its product. 8.1 Mega Pixels at less than 5 oz weight is a combination with value potential for customers, but the company will have to work towards generating demand. The Canon is a kind of compromise, offering a balance of the features of its competitors. Competitive Pricing It is entirely legal for a restaurant owner to copy the price of a generic dish from a competitor, as long as he or she

Reporting a Deal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Reporting a Deal - Essay Example In this case, the sentiments of the judge clearly puts the decision of the court on the line and shall leave a question mark in my mind pertaining to the validity and fairness of the possible punishment meted out. So I will have to go to the defense panel and report what I overheard so that they can take the proper moves in order to get a mistrial declared so that a new, impartial judge be assigned to the case. I should do this with the clear understanding that I must be able to stand up and testify to what I overheard in an impartial inquiry of the judges actions. This is because the defense team will be able to bring formal charges forward against the judge in question and my testimony will be vital in that case. Accusing a judge of violating the Code of Judicial Conduct is not a light matter. It entails putting my own career as a police officer on the line therefore I must be absolutely sure that I did not make a mistake nor misconstrue what I overheard. In the end, it is my conviction in my belief and my accurate understanding of the situation that I witnessed which can spell the difference between a fair penalty being applied to the accused or landing an innocent man in

Social Networks Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Social Networks - Essay Example The users read the profile pages of other members, share views and ideas, give comments and contact them via their profiles. In short, an SNS is a great means of bringing people of same wave length together and socializing with the outside world. People create their profiles which are in fact their identities which may be real or fake. SNSs have redefined identity development in a way that people can now make friends which are even not their type but of the type of the new identity that has been created on the SNS profile. This paper argues that it is important to keep only one identity in the online world in order to realize our inner selves and to keep our offline and online world integrated together. Everything related to our identity affects our agency in our online and offline worlds, be that something as simple as a name. As stated earlier, SNSs enable people to make their profiles with different names and identities in the online world. The connections made with this fake name and identity will be quite different from those made in the offline world. Thus, anybody making a profile in the online world with a fake name will be having two identities; one real that is in the offline world, and the other fake which is in the online world. ... If he takes this identity to the online world and makes use of the SNSs as a support to the offline connections, then he is able to keep the two worlds working in harmony with each other. However, if he creates a separate identity in the online worlds, then the connections with that identity will not correlate with those in the offline world thus keeping the two worlds segregated from each other. We should not perceive our online and offline worlds separately. We should make true profiles with our original identities on the SNSs so that we are able to perceive the two worlds as a single entity and not as two segregated entities. It is not possible in this busy world to run two separate worlds together or maintain different identities in the two worlds; however, we cannot deny the presence of scams and fraudulent activities taking place on the internet which are apt to steal away our identities from the profiles we make online. So, we should only trust authenticated SNSs and make true profiles there with the primary objective to support our offline connections and secondary objective to make new connections. Life will be much easier and sophisticated if we try to perceive the two worlds as a solo unit. Also, an identity becomes disfavored when it is not true. When it gets hacked, it loses its reliability and thus becomes disfavored. Identity thieves are common in the online worlds which steal, misuse, disclose or sell the true identities and thus cheat innocent persons. When an identity is stolen, it loses its credibility and thus is regarded as disapproved because it is not to be relied on for future connections, comments, sharing of information like pictures and files, and other activities of the sort. Disfavored identities must be deactivated from

Motivation and Reward Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Motivation and Reward - Case Study Example One of the major problems facing enterprises is how to get optimum results from the massive investments in these enterprises and the foremost problem among these is the problem of motivating human resources, problems of under-Utilization of abilities, frustration, instigated behavior, unfavorable job attitudes and low morale appear to prevail as much among managers and supervisors as among workers. Motivation has been defined as the force that gives rise to a behavior. There are various factors that influence the behavior and among them the needs of the individual are most important (Douglas, 1997. p.52). The main object of HRD philosophy is respect for the dignity of the worker as a human being and motivates his enormous potential for contribution and growth. HRD efforts have therefore to gain the confidence of the worker that he is seen as a member who is important to the organization. Proper communication plays a pivotal role to achieve results in this priority area. (Bhatia, 1999, p.52) Normally, a worker feels a sense of belonging when the organization shares with him various company information. Shop communication forums at the work place enable information sharing with the grass-roots levels of the workforce. The forum' holds communication sessions in the shop on various aspects of the plant with information focus on production targets and performance of the shop, cost control, energy conservation and techno-economic factors, safety, housekeeping and various other thrust areas. Since the employees themselves communicate the information to their co-workers, a unified team throbbing with commitment and zeal to deliver results trades shape at the work place. (Bhatia, 1999, p.54) Constraints are, however, faced in the vastness of the workforce. Due to vastness of the workforce, there may be some constraints, while implementing the programme. However, there is wide scope for increasing the ambit of the communication efforts and information sharing has to become an inbuilt managerial function in the shop floor. (b) Workers Luncheon Sessions and the Performance Improvement Plan Normally, in these sessions, the workers are invited to a discussion with the senior line managers of the shop on the targets and performance shot-falls/ assignments and encouraged to suggest improvements and highlight attention areas. (Bhatia, 1999, p.55) These discussions explore the latent potential of the silent workers in the shop and provide a forum for their self-expression and contribution to the process of collective decision-making. 2. Employee Facilities HRD

The novel Farewell, My Lovely Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The novel Farewell, My Lovely - Essay Example From the very beginning, the main character, Philip Marlowe does to Los Angeles. His journey leads him from the bottom to the top class of Los Angeles society, whose problems he denounces in sharp tones. Marlowe visits the home of a Southern California "psychic consultant" and a private house that is really a hideout for criminals. Marlowe disrespects himself as he is forced to do offensive things in the line of duty. One day, he has to make dead drunk an alcoholic widow to know more information from her, and at another case "he had picked a poor man's pocket," when he is discovered by a Mr. Grayle just as he is about to kiss the elderly gentleman's wife. He takes care of Marriott and tries to protect her from the outside world. One day, he investigates that Velma and Mrs. Grayle is the same person. Marlowe investigates that this woman killed Marriott. At the end of the story, she kills Malloy and commits suicide to avoid punishment. Chandler creates a strong and sympathetic character of Marlowe able to protect himself and fund truth. A detective element is particularly effective in the way that it resonates with the text's overall treatment of issues. The society recognizes that individual preferences can vary widely, and all behavior is openly tolerated as long as it is consensual for all participants. Plurality is again the keynote. If the dramatic context of the crime -cycle provided the essential clue for the interpretation of evil and suffering, the solidity and permanence of that context was responsible for the unshakeable conventions which governed the expression of suffering and evil. "I stood there and thought that if I lived in the house, I would sooner or later have to climb up there and help him. He didn't seem to be really trying" (Chandler 87). Chandler's vision of social problems is a place of diversity and change and is specifically presented as a preferable alternative to the consolation of pro blems. The specific tone of this selfconsciousness, along with the book's indeterminate message, also identifies The strain of lyric lament, however, is not a characteristic of the speeches given to evil figures, whose mode of suffering is wrathful or desperate, but it does characterize the innocent sufferers. The character of Marlowe can be seen as a moral center of the novel. Within its transparently didactic framework, the personifications of vices and virtues contend for the allegiance of the central figure or figures that represent man. The characteristic plot is a contest, and its characteristic movement is from the seduction of mankind by vice to the salvation of mankind by virtue and repentance. The fundamental issue of morality is thus always the same, and it is by definition a highly serious one; the fundamental evil involved, sin in one or another of its particular forms, is also always the same, and just as serious. But the dramaturgical expression of the issue and the evil, drawing from the heritage of the crime novel, combined both moral gravity and comic effect; the comedy of evil persisted along with the allegory of evil; like the allegory, it found its support and basis in the doctrinal and homiletic formulation which was responsible for the morality tradition The crime scene of the story is a complex one which consists of several sub-scenes. The first sub-scene reveals true identity of Velma and Mrs. Grayle, the second one depicts that she kills

Hydroxyl group Essay Example for Free

Hydroxyl group Essay Vanillin is the primary component of the extract of the vanilla beans that is used as a popular flavoring agent in food stuffs. Recently, it was found that some of food processing and food manufacturing companies are making food items using harmful ingredients in order to save their production cost. Since vanillin is used widely in food items as a flavoring agent, I wanted to know more about vanillin through this experiment. The Vanillin constitutes a colorless, prismatic needles which are readily soluble in the common organic solvents. It is also readily soluble in boiling water, but it is sparingly soluble in cold water (E. Gildemeister, 1913). Acetylvanillin will be formed via esterification of vanillin in a basic solution. Procedure1 In this experiment, vanillin will react with the acetylating agent acetic anhydride to form the acetate ester of the phenolic hydroxyl group. Dissolve the vanillin (3. 04 g, 0. 020 mole) in 1 M aqueous potassium hydroxide (22ml, 0. 022 mole) in a 125 ml Erlenmeyer flask. Add it to acetic anhydride (2. 1 ml, 2. 27 g, 0. 022 mole) in ether (45 ml). Stir the mixture until it loses its yellow color and the lower, aqueous layer becomes almost colorless. Pour the mixture into a separatory funnel and draw off the aqueous layer. Decant the ethereal solution into an Erlenmeyer flask and dry the solution with anhydrous magnesium sulfate. Remove the drying agent by gravity filtration into another Erlenmeyer flask. Using the steam bath, strip off the all the ether and allow the residue of acetylavanillin to cool to crystallize. As the final procedure, Recrystlaize the crude product from 40 ml of 50% ethanol in water.

Chocolate Research Paper Essay Example for Free

Chocolate Research Paper Essay Chocolate is a key ingredient in many foods such as milk shakes, candy bars, cookies and cereals. It is ranked as one of the most favourite flavours in North America and Europe. Despite its popularity most people do not know the unique origin of this popular treat. Chocolate is a product that requires complex procedures to produce. The process involves harvesting cocoa, refining coca to cocoa beans, and shipping the cocoa beans to the manufacturing factory for cleaning, coaching and grinding. These cocoa beans will then be imported or exported to other countries and be transformed into different types of chocolate products. Cocoa beans grow in countries like Cote dIvoire, Ghana, Indonesia, Brazil, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Malaysia, but the highest cocoa producing country is Cote dIvoire. The production process of cocoa beans include: first, cocoa is harvested manually. The seed pods of cocoa are collected and the beans are selected and placed in piles. These cocoa beans are then ready to be shipped to the manufacturer for production. Cocoa grows in pods that sprout off the trunks and branches of cocoa trees. The pods have the shape and almost the size of football. The pods start out green and turn orange when they are ripe. When the pods are ripe they are harvested gently with machetes. Machines can damage the trees or the clusters of flowers and pods that grow on the trunk, so workers have to harvest the pods by hand, using short, hooked blades mounted on long poles to reach the highest fruit. The cocoa seeds then undergo a process of fermentation by placing them in large, shallow, heated trays or by covering them with large banana leaves. If the climate is right, they may be simply heated by the sun. Workers mostly women come along periodically and stir them up so that all of the beans come out equally fermented. This process may take up to five or eight days. After fermentation, the cocoa seeds are dried before they can be scooped into sacks and shipped to chocolate manufacturers. Farmers simply spread the fermented seeds on trays and leave them in the sun to dry. The drying process usually takes about a week and results in seeds becoming reduced to about half of their original weight. During the production process, labor is not equally divided between men and women who work in the planation; this brings us to the issue of gender division. The gender divide that exists on the cocoa plantation is that most farm work is conducted by men, although most certainly there are tasks where women are very active, such as scooping the beans from the already opened husks, turning the beans during the fermentation and drying process, and sewing the jute sacs needed for the packaging of the dried beans. Women in the farms normally tend to the needs of the family. When female labor is hired during the harvesting time the wages given to them are not the same as those for men. Perhaps another reason why men are preferred is because of their assumed higher productivity rate compared to that of women. Due to different practices followed in individual regions, even within countries, the participation of women and their assigned tasks vary enormously. For instance, because of the popular method of sun drying cocoa beans in Ecuador, it is necessary to â€Å"clean† the beans. This job is mostly undertaken by women. This is not the case in Ghana or Brazil where sun drying is accomplished while protecting the beans from foreign matters and waste. It is interesting to note however that there is no specific pattern for the assignment of tasks to women, except during the harvest when the scooping of the beans from the opened pods is primarily performed by women in most cocoa producing countries. Given the great differences in the systems of production in producing countries it is difficult to find a common percentage that reflects the average participation of the female work force. It is worth mentioning that unlike the coffee agricultural sector, there are no associations or specific groups that house ‘women only’ involved in the cocoa sector at any level, although all associations and cooperatives are open to all who qualify. Due to fluctuation of cocoa prices in the world market, farmers have no long-term security, and in some situations, they do not have enough funds to support their farming business. Cocoa farmers are always faced with financial hardship; they are not able to provide for their families as they would want nor have enough funds to start up their own farming business because they only receive a fraction of the proceeds from the selling of the beans on the world market and there are many people in the trading chain. Cocoa farmers around the world face many challenges. It is estimated that about one-third of global cocoa crops are destroyed by pests and diseases every year. Many cocoa farmers have limited access to the latest agricultural technologies or methods of cultivation and few of them have business backgrounds to help them effectively market their products and manage their operations. Many of the farming communities live in poverty and are infected with diseases. Industry groups, governments and consumers worldwide have raised concerns about the use of pesticides and child labor on West African cocoa farms. An interview conducted by Christophe Koffi showed that one major problem that women in cocoa production encounter is the lack the of financial capability or backing due to the fact that most of these women find themselves in a male dominated occupation. It is very difficult for them to secure financial aid or loans to manage their farms. For instance, â€Å"Women cannot inherit or even create a cocoa plantation under our patriarch-dominated tradition,† said Vanie, criticising what she called a â€Å"backwards and misogynist† practice† (Koffi, 2008) because we still live in a patriarchal dominated society where women do not have the right to own lands and properties. This paper further talks about the sustanability in the production process of cocoa. We will be looking at Lindt Sprungli’s which is a family company and a major producer of chocolate and other cocoa products with a headquaters in Kilchberg, Switzerland. Lindt Sprungli is one of the few chocolate makers that have complete control over every step of the production chain starting with the precise selection of the finest cocoa varieties from the best growing areas in the world right on through the careful and expert processing until ending with the elegant packaging. Lindt gets its cocoa beans mostly from Ghana and Central and South America. Lindt has been very conservative in the amount of energy its invests in the chocolate production process. Each existing and future facility and investment undergoes very detailed analysis to determine how much energy can be saved. Through better insulation and energy recovery, Lindt Sprungli was able to cut down on energy consumption by more than 13% per ton produced between 2004 and 2010. The company intends to continue reducing the energy consumption rate per ton produced by an average over the coming years. According to the Lindt publication, The company’s efforts: since 1999, Lindt Sprungli’s Swiss subsidiary, Chocoladefabriken Lindt Sprungli (Schweiz) AG, has been an active member of the Lake Zurich Energy Model Group†¦The Swiss government and independent engineers have audited the progress and as a result, the Swiss subsidiary has been granted the official certificate. (Kilchberg, 2012) Since 2007, Lindt Sprungli under water conservation has been participating in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP)†¦Since then, the measurements of water emissions and energy consumption have been largely based on the concept of the ‘Methodology Fossil Fuels’ set out in the CDP Protocol†¦Waste water, Lindt Sprungli continuously monitors and analyses the use of water and the output of wastewater in the production process and intends to further reduce the use of fresh water in this process, which, in turn will impact the output of wastewater (Kilchberg, 2012). The major people that benefit from cocoa production are mostly the big corporations. The corporations exploit cocoa farmers in the sense that they do not pay them the true worth of their labour. Women who work on the farms are underpaid and marginalized. There is also the issue of child labor where children of school going age are forced to work on the farms instead of going to school thereby denying them the right to education. The big corporations are not forth coming in releasing information as to how and where they get their cocoa beans from. Most of these African countries where these big corporations get their raw materials from do not have access to good roads, health care facilities, schools, electricity, and there is poverty in most of the communities. These big corporations buy the cocoa beans at a very cheap rate and then import them to the western society and the refined product is processed into different kinds of chocolates (e. g. chocolate drink, chocolate bars of different shapes and sizes and chocolate candies etc. ) . Which are sold consumers at exorbitant prices considering the price at which the cocoa beans are bought from the cocoa farmers. This explains how capitalism and big corporation exploit cheap labour. Almost everyone enjoys a bit of chocolate every now and again. But if you take a closer look at how cocoa is produced, it may well leave a bitter taste in your mouth. The conditions under which the cocoa farmers in many producer countries live and work are worrying: Despite the fact that cocoa is usually their main source of income, the families struggle to make a living from it. Child labour is not uncommon. As consumers we can work with NGOs to find means of helping the farmers to adapt to new systems of cocoa farming that result higher yields, under socially more acceptable and environmentally friendly conditions, to meet market demands and hence ensure a stable flow income. As a major part of the global cocoa industry which has remained inactive and invisible for so long, consumers of chocolate can demonstrate that they want slavery in the cocoa sector stamped out, and your pressure can highlight their lack of commitment and make them more accountable. Finally all cocoa products, including chocolate, run the risk of being tainted by child labour and slavery. To achieve a satisfactory standard of ethical production in chocolate consumers must help to ensure that companies commit to credible and sufficient actions against such things as use of child labour and the exploitation of cocoa farmers and not make false and unsustainable promises to consumers of being â€Å"slavery- free†. The consumers can liaise with government bodies and NGOs to negotiate fair prices for the purchase of cocoa products and this will in turn help the farmers to gain access to basic social amenities of life. Reference Page Archer, D. (2012). ADM’s commitment to sustainable cocoa. Milwaukee: Copyright 2012 Archer Daniels Midland Company . Clarkson, T. (1998). Anti-slavery. Retrieved November 15, 2012, from www. antislavery. org: http://www. antislavery. org/english/privacy_policy. aspx Kilchberg. (2012, April 22). The environment in the Production Process. Retrieved November 13, 2012, from www. Lindt. com: http://www. lindt. com/swf/eng/company/social-responsibility/lindts-sustainable-cocoa-supply-chain/ Koffi, C. (2008, November 7). Ivory Coast women defy taboos. Retrieved November 11, 2012, from iol News: http://www. iol. co. za/news/africa/ivory-coast-women-defy-taboos-1. 423405.