Genetically Modified Organisms in Agriculture Essay Example for Free

Genetically Modified Organisms in Agriculture Essay Genetically modified organisms especially in agriculture has attracted global concern over the last few years. People from all walks of life, politicians, consumers, activists, farmers biotechnologists as well as technology regulators have been involved in the heated debate. Evidence has been brought forward on the massive benefits of genetically modified crops due to the food insecurity in the world as a result of low agricultural productivity and the ever increasing population. However, many consider the adoption of genetic engineering technology in agriculture as a time bomb. These concerns have resulted into changes in the importation and exportation policies, intensive regulation of agricultural technology and practices in many parts of the world. Different environmental organizations around the world have protested against genetically modified organism due to it potential effect on the environment. Despite these arguments, this technology is being adopted by farmers around the world knowingly or unknowingly. But the big issue is the costs and benefit of genetic engineering in agriculture. Whether the benefits of increased agricultural production at reduced cost overrides the environmental and food safety concerns has always been the big issue (Nelson, p 4). What are genetically modified crops? Over the years, research in biotechnology has advanced significantly. Biotechnology is a field of technology that deals with living systems. For many centuries, biotechnology has been employed in agriculture and manufacturing industries, for example fermentation processes for industrial production of wine has been used for many centuries. Principles of genetics and hereditary which were developed in the late 19th century have improved agricultural production by enabling farmers select the beat trains in plants and animals. However, the unearthing of the structure of DNA in the mid 20th century was a turning point for biotechnology. This led to a progressive development of genetic engineering technology. Today, farmers need not to choose animals or plants with the best characteristics such as drought, pests and diseases resistant, high yields, early maturity or high quality products due to advancement in biotechnology. Through genetic modifications, scientists can alter the genetic material in the plant or animal to improve on its characteristics (Whitman, p 1). Genetically modified organisms in agriculture refer to plants and animals that are created by scientists to meet desired characteristics using modern molecular biotechnology techniques. To enhance the traits, the genetic material in the organism is modified to meet the desired qualities. This technique has replaced the traditional methods of propagation used by farmers to enhance the desired characteristics through selective breeding which is inaccurate and time consuming. Biotechnology produces organisms of the intended traits with greater precision. For example, today, scientists can extract the gene responsible for drought resistance in plants that do well in deserts and insert it in various agricultural plants to enhance their drought tolerance. Recent research indicates that these genes can also be transferred from plants to animal or from animals to plants. A good example in this case is the genetic modification, Bt maize. The gene responsible for the production of protein in the maize was isolated from a bacterium that was observed to produce a protein as a defense against insects’ larvae. The Bt main therefore has improved nutrients content as well as pest resistance such as stock borer (Herman, p 36). Legitimate concerns about genetically modified organisms There is no doubt that there are several problems associated with genetically modified organisms in agriculture. This has resulted into criticism from different people around the world including some biotechnologists. This is despite the massive promises of the new technology. The greatest concerns has been the players in the agribusiness field concentration on the financial benefit accrued from adoption of genetic engineered crops without considering its impacts on the consumers as well as the environment. This criticism has become intense with various religious and interest groups being opposed to the idea basically because scientists are not certain about the long term effects of genetically modified products on the consumers and the environment (Rader, Para 26). A legitimate argument is based on the fact that man altering the Mother Nature will always have negative consequences. Some of these consequences may be life threatening. This is evident from the current changing weather crisis as a result of man activity. Genetic engineering is more threatening as it touches on the most fundamental part of life, the hereditary material. Religious groups have been opposed to these biotechnology developments due to its threat on the identity of the target species. However, some critics base their argument on ethics since genetic modification technology is closely related to human cloning and human embryo tissues research (Rader, Para 26). The greatest concern on genetically modified food is food security. There are proposals that genetically modified products may not be safe for human consumption. Adoption of genetically modified organisms in agricultural production is a major change in the global food supply and reliable and extensive studies need to be done on their safety. This concern does not affect genetically engineered organisms only but also changes that are as a result of other biotechnological advancements. There is no doubt that biologists are aware of the impacts of what they are doing. They are well informed on the negative consequences of altering the genetic makeup of organisms. However, there are some unanticipated effects of this technology as a result of long term impacts (Rader, Para 26). A very good example was the genetic enhancement of nutritional contents of soybeans. Soybean has been considered as a good source of plant protein for many years. However, research indicates that it lacks methionine, one of the essential amino acids. To enhance the nutritional value of soybeans, scientists isolated a gene responsible for protein production in Brazil nut and inserted it on soybean. However, scientists were unaware that the same gene was the allergens in the nut. A very large number of people are allergic to Brazil nut because of this allergen. This modification could have resulted into unexpected allergic reaction. This was revealed before the product entered the market through testing which led to abandoning of the project. This is clear evidence that genetically modified organisms products need to be extensively tested before they can be consumed by human beings. Though this indicates that testing is done before the products are released, there is no assurance that the products are safe for consumption (Rader, Para 26). One of the techniques used in genetic engineering is induced random gene mutations. This produces numerous genetics which are tested for desired qualities. There are various techniques that are used to induce random gene mutation. This may include the use of radiations of a certain wavelength, use of chemicals or subjecting the genetic materials to high temperatures. This technique relies more on lack when compared to genetic modification where a gene of the desired trait is inserted. This suggests that more tests need to be done on genetically produced organisms using this technique. However, throughout the world, there are no proper regulations that have been put in place to regulate breeding of organism which puts the consumers at a risk. There are no doubts that breeding technologies are creating harmful products accidentally and whose short term and long term effects are unknown. A very good example given in this case was the production of celery using convectional breeding methods. Although the celery produced was of a better variety, it had negative effects on the farm worker who became hypersensitive to sunlight. Other products produced using the same techniques such as Lenape potato was found to contain toxins levels which was fatal (Herman, p 36). The health concerns raised against genetically modified food have affected the perception of the public on these foods. For example, a very large number of children all over the world today suffer from fatal allergies to some animal and plants products especially peanuts. A large number of people associated this with genetic modifications. Although this may not be true, there is a need to think twice about this issue. Most of genetic modifications are aimed at producing fruits and vegetables with fast maturity rate, improved nutrition value, altered ripening behaviors, resistant to diseases and pest and better yields. Unfortunately, these products are given to very vulnerable members of the society. The likelihood of introducing new types of allergen in the fruits and vegetable through genetic engineering is very high. The allergenicity effects of new allergen may have far reaching effects considering that most of the people around the world are suffering from life threatening hypersensitivity (Nelson, p 103). Some scientists have been opposed to the new technology because it is not possible to determine with certainty the effects of genetically modified products on human health. There are still some unknown effects of introducing new genes to crops. It is more likely that there are some negative effects that scientists may not expect associated with genetically modified organisms that are unknown or unexpected by scientists. For example, a recent study suggests that genetically modified potatoes have some effects on the digestive systems of rats. Substantial differences between the digestive systems of rat feed with genetically modified potatoes and those feed with unmodified potatoes. Although these potatoes were not meant for human consumption, it suggests that genetically modified food may not have short term negative effects on humans but can result into modification of body systems which may be detected when it is too late (Whitman, p 1). The unintended harm to some species as a result of adoption of genetic engineering technology in agriculture has attracted a lot of concern on the future of GM in agriculture. These concerns are based on the effects of Bt maize on the population of monarch butterflies. Although monarch butterfly larvae do not consume corn, pollen from Bt maize was transferred to the milkweeds plants through hair carrying with it the anti larvae proteins. The monarch butterfly larvae perished as a result of consuming this pollen. The main concern here is that the proteins in Bt maize was not intended to eliminate the monarch butterflies but unfortunately, it kills larvae indiscriminately. Since it has proved to be difficult to produce GMO crops with toxins that kill only pests, there is a need for evaluation of effects of the genetically modified products on unintended targets (Whitman, p 1). There is developing fear of what is likely to happen if for example, the world corn production became overdependence on Bt maize, and then insects develop resistant to Bt crops and other GM crops as well as convectional pesticides. This may lead to similar problems experienced after some mosquitoes in tropical regions developed resistant to DDT. It therefore suggests that dependence on GMO in agricultural production may be a time bomb. The possibility of creating some plants that can resist certain herbicides creates the possibility of creating super weed. The possibility of the gene transfer process getting to the non targeted species either by mistake or maliciously is of greater concern to farmers. The transfer of herbicide resistant genes to the weeds may result in cross breeding and consequently creation of super weeds. These super weeds will be able to resist the herbicide the same way the crops can. It is possible that some of the genes can be transferred to non-genetically modified crops in the field as a result of cross breeding. This possibility has been proved by the law suit between farmers and Monsanto Company (Whitman, p 1). There are also economic concerns that have been raised against adoption of genetically modified organisms in agricultural production. Introduction of genetically modified crops may have negative economic consequence as a result of costs involved in establishing their markets. Biotechnology companies have invested a lot of resources in the development of GM crops and would like to make profit out of it. However, infringement of patent rights especially in agricultural technology is a big issue. These factors will affect peasant farmers in the developing countries as multinational biotechnology companies try to maximize return on their investment within a short time leading to increased prices of new propagation materials. It is less likely that despite the promise of GMO in averting the food insecurity in the world, farmers will be able to adopt these new varieties of crops (Whitman, p 1). It is clear that this biotechnology technique may not be available to all societies in the world. The resources required for significant genetic engineering research may not be in the reach of many agricultural technology companies all over the world. This creates the worry of a few multinational biotechnology companies controlling global agriculture. There is a possibility of the small companies being wiped out of the market as a result of intense competition. This competition will affect the small scale farmers negatively (Rewavas and Leaver, p 640). Counter Arguments Despite the intense argument against genetically modified organisms in agriculture, the global farming systems are progressively adopting this technology. Criticism has not deterred biotechnologist and multinational companies from developing more genetically modified crops. The intense research on this field and massive investments is clear evidence that there is a market for genetically modified agricultural products and the world is ready to adopt genetic engineering as a necessary technology. The world population stands at over six billion while it is expected to double within half a century. Convectional methods of farming will in no way sustain the ever growing global population. The risk of food insecurity is made more real by the increased changes in climatic condition. Weather has become increasingly unpredictable and unsupportive to agricultural activities. The solution to the challenges is genetically modified crops (Whitman, p 1). Genetic modification creates crops that are resistant to pests. Some GM crops are also fast growing and mature before pests attack the crop. For many years, pest control has been a major concern for farmers due to losses resulting from crop destruction. Large scale and small scale farmers use large amount of pesticides to avert these losses. On the other hand, there is a growing concern by consumers on the safety of chemicals commonly used by farmers to control pests. There are numerous environmental hazards associated with chemical pesticides. The need to use environmentally destructive pesticides can be averted by use of genetically modified crops. Growing Bt corn and other Bt crops has eliminated the need to use pesticides in agricultural production. Although there are concerns that have been raised such as the monarch butterflies saga, these problems can be addressed by improvement of technology (Rewavas and Leaver, p 640). In many cases, it is practically impossible or uneconomical to use physical means of removing weeds from the fields. This calls for farmers to use large amount and many varieties of herbicides to remove the weeds. This is not only time consuming but also expensive making agriculture less profitable. The farmers are also required to be careful in the use of the herbicides to ensure that they have no negative effect on the crops or the environment. Genetically engineered crops can be effectively used to avert these problems. These plans are designed to resists a specially synthesized herbicide with minimum environmental impacts. This reduces the amount of herbicides required and consequently the production cost. Genetic modification has also led to the development of disease resistant crops increasing yields and lowering production costs. Scientists have conducted extensive research in the development of crops that are resistant to disease causing microorganisms (Nelson, p 84). Unpredictable weather conditions have also threatened profitability of agricultural activities. Unpredictable frost can have destructive effect on seedling leading to losses. This has led to the introduction of antifreeze gene in crops such as tobacco and potatoes which is isolated from animals living in cold water. These plants are able to resist very low temperatures where normal plants cannot survive. It is important to note the reduced global agricultural productivity is as a result of unpredictable weather condition. Arable lands are being converted into unproductive land as a result in increased droughts. Moreover, a large percentage of land in the world cannot support agriculture due to lack of adequate supply. Adoption of genetically modified crops by farmers is the solution to this problem. With this technology, farmers will be able to grow crops in areas that were previously considered unproductive due to drought or salinity. This is by modifying crops to withstand drought or high salt concentration in the soil (Rewavas and Leaver, p 640). If genetically modified organisms were adopted in agriculture especially in the third world countries, malnutrition will be a thing of the past. It is observed that as a result of poverty, many people in the developing world rely on a one crop as their staple food. This crop may not contain all essential nutrients required by the body. Genetic engineering has the ability to introduce genes to these crops which will ensure that it contains the essential nutrients. For example, in the developing countries where rice is the staple food, a large number of people suffer from blindness as a result of beta carotene deficiency. However, the golden rice which has been developed genetically was found to contain high amounts of vitamin A. Although this could have been a solution to the problem, massive anti genetically modified food protests have deterred the introduction of the rice to the farmers (Whitman, p 1). There are also proposed uses of agricultural genetic technology in development of plants that produce edible vaccines which could replace the convectional injection vaccines. Scientists are also working on development of genetically modified plants that clean up the environment by absorbing pollutants such as heavy metals from underground water and the soil (Whitman, p 1). Conclusion There are many proposals that genetically modified foods will solve the food security crisis that faces the world. They have been proposed as possible solution to over reliance on pesticides and herbicide in agricultural activities which degrades the environment. However, there are concerns over the safety of the GM products for human consumption. There are many issues that have been raised claiming that GM foods are unsafe for human consumption due to possible allergic reactions and the wide range of unknown and unexpected negative impacts on human health. The long term effects of GMs on the environment may also be far reaching due to loss of identity or elimination of some animal and plant species. Work Cited Herman E. M. , Helm, R. M. , Jung R, and Kinney A. J. Genetic modification removes an immunodominant allergen from soybean. Plant Physiology. 132 (1) (2003): pp 36–43 Nelson, Gerald. Genetically Modified Organisms in Agriculture, ISBN-13: 978-0-12-515422-2, Academic Press Rader, Charles M. A Report on Genetically Engineered Crops, (2001), retrieved on 17th May 2010 from; http://members. tripod. com/c_rader0/gemod. htm. Rewavas A and Leaver C. J. Conventional crops are the test of GM prejudice. Nature 401 (6754), (1999): PP 640. Whitman, Deborah B. Genetically Modified Foods: Harmful or Helpful? (2000), retrieved on 17th May 2010 from; http://www. csa. com/discoveryguides/gmfood/overview. php.

Market and company overview of pret a manger

Market and company overview of pret a manger Prà ªt a Manger established in 1986 by two college friends Sinclair Beecham and Julian Metcalfe (who also is the founder of Itsu sushi bar/restaurant). It is a UK based sandwich retailer, which now is an international business (Prà ªt). They named the company Prà ªt a Manger, which in French means ready to eat (see Appendix 1.0) Rix (2004) states, a product is a set of tangible attributes in an identifiable form and he adds, each product is identified by a commonly understood descriptive (p. 199). Prà ªt produces sandwiches, filled baguettes, soup, salad and coffee. It also prepares desserts, muffins (the American variety), cakes, and croissants. Some locations also serve sushi and noodles. Prà ªt has a range of vegetarian options including roasted vegetable sandwiches and hummus wraps. In marketing though, customers seek to purchase its quality and benefits (Rix, 2004). Prà ªt essentially provides fresh fast food made with natural ingredients. They are passionate about freshness all food is made fresh in the shop on the day of purchase. Sandwiches are packaged in paperboard rather than sealed plastic, to emphasise that they are fresh and cannot be kept overnight. Some packaging contains recipes for some of their products; these are for people who want to make sandwiches like Prà ªts for themselves. Mor eover, Prà ªt also provides a delivery service for orders over  £30 minimum. Service can be identified as activities that meet customers needs or wants solely on intangible benefits (Rix, 2004). Their services are excellent; the staff are friendly, always greet with civility, approachable and enthusiastic, which makes their customers feel welcome (ref). Rix (2004) states Marketers are increasingly being faced with a choice between profitably satisfying the wants of their customers and complying with the wishes of various other groups in the community (p. 5). Prà ªt is aimed at the middle to upper class including white-collar workers and businessmen and women who use it regularly to have a coffee before work, especially the City type customers (ref). Therefore, Prà ªt stores are normally found near the train or tube stations, affluent places such as Canary Wharf, and cities such as Central London. These are places where will be more consumers that they are targeting at. Prets competitors include Starbucks, Costa, Nero and Eat. Relatively speaking, Starbucks is the biggest competitor since it is the largest coffeehouse business in the world. Companies that anticipate changes in consumer behaviour and respond with new gods and services are likely to achieve long-term health and profitability. But companies that change consumer behaviour have the opportunity to make major breakthroughs in new markets and industries (Hoffman et al. 2005) Already there are about 240 Prà ªt shops, which are mainly based in the UK. Statistically, their yearly turnover is approximately  £270 million a year (see Appendix 1.1) Task 1 P 1.1 Situation Analysis A thorough analysis of the situation in which the firm finds itself serves as the basis for identifying opportunities to satisfy unfulfilled customer needs (City of London Academy, Edition 1). Need to be changed One of procedures of the marketing planning is the marketing audit, which plays a huge part that constantly is being conducted throughout the whole process. It is to study internal factors, while also anticipates stakeholders and external factors. The Chartered Institute of Marketing says: Carrying out the marketing audit provides the opportunity to review and appraise your whole marketing activity, enabling you to assess past and present performance as well as to provide the basis for evaluating possible future courses of action. (year) Marketing audit breaks down into two categories: The microenvironment is the forces close to the company that affect its ability to serve its customers (Kotler et al. 1998, pp. 885-886). This is focusing on the internal business experiences, where an organization has a complete control, giving this opportunity to improve the business. The macro-environment is the larger societal forces that affect the whole microenvironment (Kotler et al. 1998, pp. 885-886). This is the external factors, where a business barely or has absolute no control on, that changes may adversely affect the organisation. (ref) SWOT analysis is a method, which came from the research conducted at Stanford Research Institute. It draws all the evidence from several analytical techniques used, provides basic useful information of developing the business, marketing objectives or aims and new products into the market. Prà ªt undertakes a SWOT analysis, which its abbreviation is Strengths, the strong features and positions of the company, Weaknesses, where the company needs to improve in order to maintain the best image of the business as possible internal issues, Opportunities, where the company can grab chances to better themselves and to expand their reputation, and Threats, where the company relish challenges that may affect the business external issues (Rix, 2004). Example of SWOT analysis is shown below: Table 1: (1.1 Explanation of SWOT analysis) Strengths Non-stop producing new products. Often do offers. Prices are cheap and affordable. Always create new advertisements. Services are fast and easy. Weaknesses Products are not healthy. Advertise unhealthy products i.e. burgers Contributes to obesity. Loaded with sugar. Opportunities Exploitation of interest in healthier eating. Sponsoring could help the business their sales. Home deliveries service Threats International exchange rate Increasing labours wages Competitors pricing Competitors invent similar products, might be better. Source: The researcher PEST is an analysis of external factors, generally considered to be outside the control of a business. The PEST analysis is to identify both presents and futures opportunities and threats. PEST stands for Political; Economic; Social and Technology (ref). Clear explanation of each of these are shown in the following: Table 2: (1.1 Explanation of PEST) Political These are factors that are controlled by the government policies. Economic These factors are related to political and are concerned about interest rates, exchange rate, economic growth and income levels. Social Concerning the factors of age, size of families, healthy lifestyle and religions. Technology Factors concern such as computers, machineries, motor vehicles etc. Source: The researcher P 1.2 A mission or vision statement is a statement that provides a signpost of where your business aims to be in the future (Chartered Institute of Marketing, ). Choose better one A mission statement has to be concise and explicitly explain that provides a clear view of Prà ªts intention to customers and stakeholders, what is their business and who their customers are. It also provides motivation within the organization, helps them to focus on accomplishing their objectives (ref). This helps marketer to make informed decisions of suitable strategies and programs. Here are the two mission statements of Prà ªt: Turnover currently  £270 million: to increase 9% within 2 years time. To expand wider and open new stores this year: 3 new stores to be opened in Birmingham, (BBC News, 2010). According to media sources, Prà ªts turnover is constantly increased in the recent years. Although economic crisis has just ended, nonetheless the business somehow managed to make profits. This shows that the businesss financial situation is stable and secure. Table 3: (1.2 Marketing Mix for Prà ªt a Manager) Product Hoi sin Duck Wrap is a Cantonese style of wrap Prà ªt does. Inside the wrap has shredded roast duck, hoisin sauce, red onions, cucumber, leaf spinach and a touch of mayo in a tortilla wrap. The wrap contains nuts, sesame free, dairy free, GM free and high protein, which keeps customers full longer. Every single Pret store has its own kitchen, they make the product every single purchase day, to make sure it is fresh and healthy. Those left unsold at the end of the day, they will not be re-sold, but will be collected by the charities, and then given to those are homeless. Price This product quite pricey due to the qualities it contains, which cost  £2.95 each. This can be cost plus pricing, average cost of the product and service plus a profit margin; it has a high mark-up. Place The channels of distribution of this product will be service providers to consumers, as well as direct marketing through the website so the consumers can shop at home, but minimum of  £30. This product sells in a clean and pleasant environment, affluent places like the city, where the market targets will perform the desire behaviour. Usually during lunchtime, when this product can be purchased the most. Promotion Prà ªt promotes the product through word of mouth by informal communication about the product by ordinary individuals, satisfied customers or people specifically engaged to create word of mouth momentum. Sales staff often plays an important role in word of mouth. This promotion also includes leaflets, shop windows, and its own website, targeting at older group, middle and upper class groups. Source: wesite SWOT analysis is used to get something in the right position in the market and help in companys strategic planning. It must be done before Prà ªts product (Hoi Sin Duck Wrap) is launched and at regular intervals after that, also needs to spend resources to maximize profit and minimise potential threat (ref). The following table shows the SWOT analysis of Prà ªt that may influence their sales of the new product. Table 4: (1.2 SWOT Analysis for Prà ªt a Manager) Strengths Prà ªt is well known for handmade sandwiches, which are made with natural ingredients, and immaculate service, which the quality of products and customers are the companys priorities. The business also does delivery service that other sandwich bars do not provide, as well as online order. Thus, these advantages may aid to gain repeat sales of Hoi Sin Duck Wrap. Weaknesses Prà ªt is considerably to be one of the most expensive sandwich bars in the world. This also means that the business only has certain target audience and stores can be found in affluent areas only. Prà ªt stores are generally small that unable to provide sufficient seats for customers to eat in. Thus, the sales of Hoi Sin Duck Wrap will not be expectedly high. Opportunities Prà ªt does not franchise. The business could take this opportunity to franchise out; not only Prà ªt can gain popularity, the business can also earn some fees from franchising! Prà ªt does not involve a lot of advertisements. Advertising plays a major part in every organization Prà ªt should seriously think about advertisements on television and newspapers etc. Thus, Hoi Sin Duck Wrap is highly unreachable. Threats The risk of competitors entering the market. Competitors such as Starbucks often distribute discount vouchers. Customers are aware of the price and generally; they tend to go for cheaper options. Thus, Hoi Sin Duck Wraps product life cycle is predictably short. Source: website Prà ªt must consider on the external environment influences, which may have impact on its product. It is a strategic planning technique that provides a useful framework for analysing the environmental pressure on Prà ªt and its product (ref). Table 5: (1.2 PEST for Prà ªt a Manager) Political Economic Social Technology Source: The researcher Task 2 P 2.1 Marketing Barriers Barriers are vague obstacles that tend to thwart a marketing plan and unable to pass messages to external stakeholders. A marketer needs to understand and identify each of the barriers that they are confronting, in order to avoid scuppering the plan. Marketers generally realise these barriers when they manage to envisage a business is not growing or a prolonged unstable position (ref). These barriers can be both internal and external, and all must take into account: Not knowing your product Lack of knowledge in a businesss product and what services the business can provide to their customers can be an immense barrier to the business success. There will be no guarantee, security, customer loyalty, and number of complaints will increase, the business is ineffectual and needs improvement immediately. Whilst the business competitors understand their products, this can adversely affect the business turnover and repeat sales will not occur. Not knowing your competition If a researcher does not know where a business stands and positions of the business competitors, it is highly unlikely that the business can topple its competitors. Competitors study and observe their own competitors. This will give competitors the ideas how to better their performance. Gradually, competitors successfully satisfy customers and therefore eventually, the business will be ceased. Not understanding the market A product is ready to enter the market. However, if a researcher does not know what a business segmentations are can cause problems to the sales campaign. If the researcher does not know where these segments are, which segment should be regarded and disregarded, the marketing plan will not be effective. It is also concerned with costs. For example, the researcher does not study the environment for the business products, high premises cost, electricity and gas, the business will have no the potential to reach the top. Capital requirements The amount of financial resources that every new business enters a market is immense. Businesses such as manufacturing industries and building constructions are required extortionate machineries in order to run its business. Investments can also occur to existing businesses. For instance, investing in new product: finance availability for research and development, production, marketing etc. The investment risk is great, therefore creates barrier. However, there is a prospect of overthrowing the business competitors. Government policy This is concerned with macro-environment. Government policies sometimes are forced to halt competition. For example, laws and regulations such as product testing regulations, global warming and limits on access to raw materials can inhibit the growth of competitions due to licensing requirements. P 2.2 Solutions for marketing barriers Knowing your product It is vital to understand wholly and study what products and services that Prà ªt are providing, how they are functioned and any most recent information that a marketer should know. This will guide the marketer to the right direction and helps to plan a marketing strategy. Having knowledge of the companys products can laden relationships with customers, suppliers and other stakeholders. For instance, customers expectations will be made, therefore sales enhance. Suppliers will be delighted to supply, as Prà ªt seems stable and able to meet payments on time. Knowing your competition It is important to know and learn about competitors. Competitors can be one of keys to a Prà ªts achievement, as researchers can study and observe the business competitors to acknowledge its weaknesses, opportunities and threats. This consists of competitive pricing, niche market availability, promotion, advertisements and other relevant useful information that can be learned. Understanding your market Researchers must know what are the target groups and who prà ªt is selling its products to. To conduct a market research can help researchers to understand the specific target audience and customers expectations in terms of price and quality. Methods of market research can be primary and/or secondary, quantitative and/or qualitative. Internet is a very effective tool that can help Prà ªt to overcome its barriers. Information and data that are needed can mostly be found online. Also, if researchers are struggling, good guidelines can also be found on the Internet. Until researchers are fulfilled with the results, decisions are then made and subsequently, implement a marketing plan. Task 3 P 3.1 In competitive world, companies need to produce new products to satisfy customer needs. A company cannot expect to continue growth or to maximise profit by relying exclusively on its existing products. The company must retain to control its market by continuous product innovation that involves complete new product development, product improvement, which is to discover different ways in improving existing products effectively, and imitative products, which means a copied product that is already exist in the market by other companies. It is essential to know how to manage a new product, which goes through its life cycle (Kotler et al., year) Every product has its life cycle, showing how long a product will last for. Product life cycle is the phases a product goes through from its introduction to its final decline (ref). The product life cycle has five main phases: Table 6: (3.1 Product Life Cycle) Induction This is the starting point, where a product has just begun its sales life. There is usually no profit making due to higher cost of marketing and development. Growth This is the period when a products sales has just set to rise, and the cost begins to fall due to economies of scale the more consumers purchase the product, the quicker the product will run out, therefore the more quantities of the product will be supplied by the suppliers. Maturity A sale is expanding at a slower rate and profits are soaring. More and more consumers purchase the product. The pricing may be lower due to greater competition. Saturation A market is begun to fall due to many other similar products, better products, out of date etc. The product will not be produced as much as it used to. Decline The ending of a product where the sales cannot survive again, therefore the price will be reduced more. The product then is withdrawn. Source: author , date Hoi Sin Duck Wrap is a product, which has been developed and marketed to Prets customers, and is currently market leader. Still as the researcher knowledge, there is no market follower for this product. Kotler et al. (year) believe a product tends to develop, improve and modify through research, as well as to identify, create and deliver the new product that has not emerged in the market yet. Every business must have its segmentation and targeting, its own branding and knowing relationship marketing in order to innovate flawlessly and increase demand. Segmentation technique is separated a market into groups, where there will be different segments requires and different market approaches. It is concerned on understanding customers lifestyles, preferences and aspirations. This can help businesses to find out what consumers are expected and their needs in order to develop products and increase overall demand. ACORN and MOSIAC help to identify groups consumers who are willing to purchase, therefore there will be a market for each product. Table 7: (3.1 Segmentation) ACORN A Classification Of Residential Neighborhoods, is a tool used to identify and understand the population and the demand for products and services. Businesses use this information to identify consumers needs and try to target at more consumers. Also identifying consumers age, income, employment, and type of holidays they go for etc. CACI Information Services develops classification of residential areas, market analysis and provides information. MOSIAC This is another classification to identify household types by combination of credit history, share ownership, postcode data etc. This can help businesses what type of characteristics they are aiming at. Source: author, date Segmentation technique also includes geographic, demographic, and psychographic. This can be developed so that it can create an effective marketing plan. Geographic This is a method to identify customer behavior information, such as consumer density, past purchasing behaviors etc, which may differ from other countries. Demographic This uses population factors based on variables such as age, gender family size, income, occupation, education, religion, race and nationality (ACORN). Psychographic A breakdown of consumers according to different characteristics, including the attitudes expectations and activities of consumers, their interests and lifestyles. Source: author, date Task 4 P 4.1 Marketing ethical is related to or concerning morals, justice or duty, based on ideas of right and wrong. Rules or laws that have already been set, everyday we make any decision may consider on those principles (Baker, 2006). There two main approaches in ethical identified by Rix (2004) are rules approach and outcomes approach. Rules approach is otherwise known as deontological. It is when rules must be strictly adhered, despite of the outcome. Rix (2004) states trust is one of the main keys of ethical rules in marketing. For instance, a products appearance is deceptive that lures a customer into purchasing the product, although it does not physically harm the customer is still ethically wrong. Likewise a company intends to maximise profit by conducting unethical approaches, such as making redundancies without a reason, the action is regard as unethical (Rix, 2004). Outcomes approach is otherwise known as teleological. It is occurred when an outcome is seemingly good and bad, dependi ng on the outcome prospective. For instance, Tesco brings a product into the market, but other groceries have had the product in the market already. Tesco set an unreasonable price for the product that is much lower than other competitors, which competitors accuse Tesco of unethical pricing. A contrary point of view from Tesco, that the outcome is beneficial to its stakeholders. If this action stays on, it may produce a greater amount of good than damaging others (Rix, 2004). P 4.2 Marketing mix is a tool that a company has the complete control. There are 4 main elements (4ps) in marketing mix, which are product, price, place and promotion. The fifth P, which is people, sometimes is added to demonstrate the relationship with customers. 2 further Ps are usually added within service industry, which are process and physical evidence (Lancaster and Reynolds, 1999). Conclusion

An Analysis Of The Human Need Theory Politics Essay

An Analysis Of The Human Need Theory Politics Essay This statement has been adapted from Peace and Conflict: Journal of Peace Psychology Reducing Direct and Structural Violence: the Human Needs Theory by Daniel J Christie. Prof. Daniel J Christie is a Professor of Psychology at the Ohio State University. He is the former head and President of the Division of Peace Psychology of the American Psychology Association. He has served as President of Psychologists for social responsibility, and undertakes work on both local and international programs that enhance the educational and economic opportunities of minorities and Indigenous ethnic groups. The above mentioned statement has a profound and deep meaning and stresses on the importance of Human needs for the management of Peace in the society. I would like to agree with the authors statement and in my opinion, in order for peace to prevail in the community, society and the world; the basic human needs like security, identity, well-being and self-determination have to be satisfied. Human needs act as very deterrent force in the description of Human behaviour and in their communication with other beings in the society. Every human being irrespective of origin, race, colour, caste has individual needs that are of great significance to him/her and which he tries to fulfil and satisfy throughout his life through his actions and deeds. In this essay I am mainly going to deal with these needs which act as a driving force in every human beings life and how these needs affect conflict and its resolution management. I will also be looking at the importance of the Human Needs theory and criticism towards it, the role human needs play in Conflict formation, the birth of a conflict, its prevention and analysis. In my opinion, the infringement or denial of Human needs and wants leads to torment, agony and social deprivation which eventually leads to conflict. Significance of Human Needs Theory The Human needs theory is significant and important as it shows us how conflicts can be managed and resolved through the satisfaction of basic human needs. Human Needs can be defined as State of felt deprivation and necessity which have to satisfied. (Burton, 1990) Burton in his book Conflict: Resolution Provention states that the nature of human needs remain constant and find their air under the changing environment. An example for this is the Human need for safety, which remains constant and is only visible when there is a perceived threat towards it. Needs form an integral part of a human being and actions are directed towards the satisfaction of these needs. According to Daniel J Christie, Human Needs policy is critical of the policy of deterrence, which relies on the assumption that a would-be aggressor will refrain from committing violence against an opponent because of threat of retaliation (Christie, 1997). Human Needs theory is an alternate to the theory of power politics. Human needs theory lays stress on the satisfaction of needs essential for human beings, required for his survival, which when compromised act as a major source of conflict. An example in this regard is the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, which has been going on f or so long now. This conflict is centred towards the unsatisfied security and identity needs of the countries. The Palestinians are of the opinion that their identity, their land is being denied to them whereas the Israelis lack the sense of security because of the numerous killings and suicide attacks as their land is also unrecognised by its harbouring countries. Therefore, the only viable solution to this conflict is when the identity needs of the Palestinians and the security needs of the Israelis are addressed to and worked at. One of the main advantages about the Human Needs theory is its wide applicability and coverage. The Human Needs theory can be used in all the strata of community, for intergroup and intra-group disputes, and even conflicts which are international in nature. The Needs theory stresses on the source or the origin of the dispute and looks towards resolution by satisfying the needs of the parties involved. Another reason why the Human needs theory is treated as an asset is because it works towards uniting human beings, makes us understand how the other party feels when their needs are deprived and provides us with a platform to aid in Conflict Resolution and Management. Criticism towards the Human Needs Theory Even though the utility of the Human needs theory has been widely discussed, I would just like to bring to the readers attention that there are some fallacies and criticism regarding these theories. The most apparent and major criticism comes in the way Needs are identified. Is there any concrete or stable way of mapping or identifying Human needs? In a conflict situation it would be difficult to judge which needs of the parties have been unmet and not satisfied. Another major criticism this theory faces is regarding the prioritising of the interests. The question raised here is how some needs can be prioritised over others? For ex: How can we prioritise need for well being over the need for security? These are all important questions, to which the researchers have not been able to provide answers. Another censure to this theory is the fact that it is not practical that parties in conflict would sit down together and try to identify self and the others needs. These facts all suggest more research and work into the Human needs theory but there have been many real life cases, where the application of this theory, have bought successful results, and this makes the theory favourable to mediators and negotiators across the world. The Human Needs theory revolves around the satisfaction of Human Needs and so now, let us studies in detail what exactly a need is and how its deprivation can lead to conflict. Need- Fundamental Element of the Human Needs Theory Needs are defined as an integral part of the Human Being. Burton, J. (1990). Human Needs Theory. In J. Burton (Ed.), Conflict: Resolution and Provention It is defined as a state of felt deprivation which needs to be satisfied. It is something which is needed by Human beings to lead a healthy and secure life. Needs are different from wants as these are required by the human beings to lead their normal life. Needs are non-negotiable and irreplaceable whereas wants are desires which arise out of needs. For example: Need for food- Anything to satisfy hunger Want Tandoori Chicken for food. To make the concept of needs clear, let us have a look at Abraham Maslows Hierarchy of needs. The hierarchy of needs, as suggested by Maslow is a linear progression of needs which have to be satisfied by the Human being. Maslows Hierarchy of Needs (www.omafra.gov.on.ca) The above illustrated diagram is the pictorial representation of Abraham Maslows Hierarchy of needs. Maslows hierarchy of needs is illustrated using a pyramid. The lowest or the bottom most level of the pyramid consist of the basic survival essential needs such as need for water, food, shelter etc, whereas the more complex needs are placed at the top of the pyramid such as self actualization need for development, creativity. Maslow suggests that once the basic or the lower level needs of the pyramid are satisfied and met, the human being can move up to higher needs which are more complex in nature. Thus needs are non-negotiable and have o be met and satisfied. It is when these needs are not met, when conflict occurs and the Human Needs theory acts as a tool for mediators and negotiators to use the needs of the parties towards the resolution of conflict. Now, let us look back at the original statement made by the author. The author says that in order for peace to prevail or be created, at least the human needs of security, identity, well-being and self-determination have to be satisfied. Let us now look at these individual elements and study how they contribute towards the formation of a conflict, violence and eventually how peace can be attained through the attainment of these needs; Need for Security There has always existed an adverse relationship between the need for security conflict/violence. The need for security is a basic need for a human being which he experiences at all times and places irrespective of environment or situation. But, this need for security is not always apparently visible and it only comes into the open or the light when it is threatened or when fear is instilled. Thus, fear always acts as a prominent inhibitor of the security and safety needs of the Human being. As long as the human being does not feel safe or secure, there will be no peace prevailing over him, in his family and in the society. Thus, the feeling of security is of utmost importance and this need must be satisfied in order to maintain peace and harmony in the society. Now, let me illustrate with the help of an example the result of need for security not being met; Ex: The Serbian invasion into Bosnia (1996), Pakistan invading India (1971). Need for Identity The need for identity is very important and required in every human beings life. The need to distinguish oneself from others, be identified in a group, have a unique piece of resource or asset which no outsider has access to or can share with, all these are attributes resulting from the need for identity. The example I had mentioned before about the ongoing fiasco between the Palestinians and the Israelis is a result of unmet need for identity on the part of the Palestinian government and people. The Palestinians feel that by taking the land, the Israelis are trying to invade their identity and try to rob it off them. Ex: Israel- Palestinian Conflict. Need for Well-being The need for well-being refers to the needs which are to be met by the human being to ensure development and sustainable growth. These refer to the acquirement of materialistic and immaterialist resources which are required by the human being to attain self-growth and development. If these needs are not met, they can result in disturbances and eventually lead to a conflict. By well being the author refers to those people who live above the poverty line and are well to do. The need for well-being arises out of the basic needs and in order for the human being to lead a happy and healthy life; these needs have to be met. For Example: The Government of India issued a new relief package for the people in its population who were below the poverty line. The relief package ensures every family a house built of concrete and enough ration and resources to last them for every month. This plan was deployed by the former President of India, Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam and was a huge success as the government was successful in alleviating the condition of the impoverished section of the population to some extent. Need for Self-Determination The need for self-development is similar to a self-actualization role portrayed in the Maslows Hierarchy of needs. The need for self-development stresses on the need for providing equal opportunities to all human beings to improve the standards of their living. This level of need helps the human being to establish or estimate his potential and shows him how he can reach or attain that potential. This need when unmet can result in a dispute which can be intra-personal, interpersonal, Intra-group or intergroup conflicts and disputes. For Example: The Racism/Apartheid regime is a good example. The minority, that is the blacks, were not awarded the same facilities awarded to the whites which eventually led to their oppression, slavery, and this went on for many years before they attained the need for self-development through inspirational leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela..Etc, who finally broke the apartheid regime. If the need for security, identity, well-being and self-determination are met, then conflict can be avoided and peace will prevail as the human being will not fell threatened or under pressure by any external force. Now that we have seen the how each individual element mentioned by the author contributes to the formation of conflict, Let us have a brief look at how conflicts are formed when these needs are not met or satisfied.. Formation of Conflicts/ Conflict Evolution Even though there are many steps in the formation of conflict, there are always some common factors which lead to the conflict or which are responsible for the conflict evolution. Mainly, conflicts are characterized by the emergence of aggressive positions and their eventual resolution and settlement through determining the underlying causes of the conflict and employing problem solving tactics (Jeong H.W, 2010). Unmet needs are one important source of conflict and they mostly lead to conflict evolution or conflict formation. Lack of feeling of security, identity, well-being and self-determination can result in misunderstandings between the parties and can eventually lead to conflict. The Human Needs theory provides parties with strategies to deal with conflicts and resolve them in a mutually peaceful manner without the use of violence or shed of blood. Prof. John Burton is renowned for his work with the theory of human needs. In Prof. Burtons view, the needs most salient to an understanding of the dynamics of destructive social conflicts are those for security, identity, recognition and personal development (John Burton: Deviance, Terrorism and war; the process of solving unsolved social and political problems, Oxford: Martin Robertson, 1979). Human Needs theory supports the integrative approach to conflict resolution and aims at a win-win solution for all the parties involved in the conflict. Conflicts are analysed by studying and identifying the needs of the parties involved in the conflict. The unmet or the unsatisfied needs which are contributing to the conflict are identified and using the integrative approach a negotiated settlement is sought after for all the parties in the dispute. This is one of the main advantages of the Human Needs Theory and this integrative approach is the undermining factor of this theories success towards conflict resolution and management, when compared to other conflict resolution theories. Dealing with a conflict using Human Needs Theory Now that we have seen how conflicts evolve when needs are unsatisfied or unmet, let us now approach the Human Needs Theory with a practical approach. I am going to demonstrate this with the help of an example. The example I have select is the ongoing tension and conflict between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue, which has been now going on for almost 6 decades. I will give a brief explanation about the conflict and then we will approach the conflict and map it using the Human Needs theory approach. India Pakistan- The Kashmir Issue refers to a territorial dispute over the state of Kashmir, a state in Northern India. The main parties involved in this issue are the nations of India, Pakistan and the people of the state of Kashmir. China is also a stakeholder in this issue but we will ignore it for the sake of simplicity of the exercise. India claims that the northern state of Kashmir is an integral part of India and approximately administers around 45% of the region which is constituted by most of the Kashmir valley, Jammu, Ladakh and the Siachen glacier. On the other hand, Pakistan claims that Kashmir should be a part of Pakistan and it holds around 37% of Kashmir including areas of Azad Kashmir, northern areas of Gilgit and Baltistan. The conflict is mainly between India and Pakistan with India claiming that Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral part of India, whereas Pakistan refute this claim and maintain that Kashmir is a disputed territory whose fate must be decided by the people of Kashmir Many wars have been fought between the two nations, millions of lives have been lost to this conflict and a lot of blood has been she, with the conflict showing no signs of being resolved. This is the case and we will just try to map this case with the help of the Human needs theory. This is just a practical example and in no way should the result be assumed to be accurate. So, now let us try to approach this conflict using the Human Needs theory and let us examine the sources behind the conflict and look at ways possible for conflict resolution. In the Human Needs theory the essence is to identify the needs which have not been met and try to work on them. It is always better when dealing with such complex conflicts to deal with a single party at a time. The Indian Government doesnt want to let go of Kashmir as it feels that Kashmir has always been an integral part of India and should remain so. For the Indian government it is a need for identity which makes Kashmir so valuable for them, as Kashmir was once known as the gem of Northern India. There is also a need for security which the Indian Government is looking for because if Pakistan occupies the whole of Kashmir, the Pakistan militants can easily infiltrate into Indian land, which will be a cause for great concern. Whereas for Pakistan, they have always felt that they have got the raw end of the bargain after the partition in 1947, and it is their need for identity, well being and self-determination, which is driving them to occupy the whole of Kashmir. Thus Pakistan is looking to occupy the whole of Kashmir to make it a totally Muslim state under the control of its government, as the majority of the population in the state is of Muslims The major reason for the conflict is the lack of trust between the two parties because of the various wars that have been fought and the unhealthy tricks that have been employed by both the nations to gain the state of Kashmir. Now, that we have identified the major issues and the need deprivations relating to both the parties, let us put it in a table for better understanding and analysis. INDIA PAKISTAN Status/ Tactics to be employed Underlying Need Status/Tactics to be employed Underlying Need Integral part Identity, security, respect Want to own Kashmir fully Identity, Recognition, Autonomy Insurgency and Terrorism by Pakistan Security India not adhere to two-nation theory Recognition, Identity, consideration INDIA PAKISTAN Status/Tactics to be employed Underlying Need Status/Tactics to be employed Underlying Need Offer compromise Trust, peace, security Assist aid of United Nation Respect, trust, subsistence. Hold Peace talks Trust, Identity Reduce infiltration Security, Trust International Assistance Wellbeing, self-determination, respect Offer the whole of Kashmir in return for proposals Peace, trust, well being, security. Thus, we have managed to map to some extent using the Human Needs Theory the India-Pakistan conflict by identifying the needs which are relevant to the conflict and then formulating strategies to resolve these issues. The aim is to reach a win-win solution for both the parties in the conflict, as this is the essence of Human Needs theory. Solving the Conflict As said earlier, the key to Human needs theory is the identification of the needs that are unmet which would lead to the conflict. The Human Needs model states that in order for resolution both the parties must sit together and acknowledge each other and their views, opinions regarding the issue. This mode of acknowledging and stepping into the other partys shoe is called as Empathy. Empathy is essential in the process of conflict resolution and analysis. The major issue between the two nations is the lack of trust due to the number of wars and tactics that have been employed by the nations over the decades, and thus in order for the conflict to be resolved, trust building exercises are a must between the nations, and sitting together and empathising with each other is surely a start. Other examples of trust building exercises can include bringing troops back from tense areas and cooling the tense environment between the armed forces of the two nations. Human Needs Strategies aims at the integrative approach and tries to make the situation win-win for both the parties, thus any solution which encompasses the issues relating to both the nation shall be considered and eventually the conflict would cool down and be resolved. If all the needs of the parties are satisfied, then it is probable o find a win-win solution. Now we have seen the impact Human Needs theory makes on Conflict formation, analysis and finally resolution. Thus we can say that Human needs theory makes a profound impact and positive contribution to Conflict analysis. Conclusion The best thing about the Human Needs theory is that it would provide objective platform, transforming local political and cultural differences, making it relatively easier to understand the various sources of conflict and the whole process of conflict resolution. By focussing on the underlying issues and needs such as security, identity, well-being and self-determination, and their satisfaction, it becomes viable to attain the favourable win-win situation for all the parties involved in the conflict. Through this paper, I have tried to highlight in the importance of the Human needs theory and its contribution towards the process of conflict analysis, I have identified the various key fundamental elements of the human need theory and how their deprival can lead to conflict. We have also studied how conflicts are evolved and we have seen through the example of the India-Pakistan Conflict, how Human needs theory can be useful and significant in conflict analysis, management and resoluti on. Thus, to conclude I will agree once again with the authors statement that A just and sustainable peace will require, at a minimum, the equitable satisfaction of human needs for security, identity, well-being, and self-determination.

The Entertainment Value of a Buffy the Vampire Episode :: Buffy Vampire Slayer Essays

In this essay I ultimately want to address the musical episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, "Once More with Feeling" (season 6, episode 7). However, I do not want to look at this episode in isolation from the remainder of the Buffy franchise but rather argue that it exemplifies a certain entertainment strategy that courses through the Buffyverse. Now it seems to me that entertainment is either too often denigrated as a specific ideological formation that produces negative effects of audience passivity as against more overtly challenging texts, or, alternatively, entertainment is celebrated within a postmodern theoretical framework that views the multiplicity of pleasures afforded as inherently productive and even oppositional. Alternatively I want to concentrate on entertainment for entertainment's sake which is to say as a dialectical operation that in Fredric Jameson's terms intermingles wish fulfilment and repression by arousing radical fantasies in order to contain them (Jameson, 1990: 25). In order to analyse this mechanism I will concentrate less on consumers and ideology (that assumes unilateral transmission) and more on fans and affect (that inscribes a dialectical procedure into reception). What seems to me to be of specific interest therefore is the manner in which Joss Whedon, Marti Noxon and the other writers/directors working on Buffy for Twentieth Century Fox target affect and fans by constructing scenarios that feed into and exceed audience expectation. I will argue that his formula culminates in the episode "Once More With Feeling" that ventures beyond Jameson's dialectical formula in that it appears to wilfully play with wish fulfilment/invocation that both figuratively and literally run the risk of arousing utopian fantasies that cannot be contained. Before turning to the musical episode in particular I believe our exposition would benefit from a brief survey of critical approaches to the Buffyverse. The critical material on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, in print at least (see here the Slayage online journal), is expanding but currently somewhat limited. However, as a general rule two tendencies emerge. The first is to treat some self-contained aspect of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" as an ideological work. Such analyses concentrate upon the encoded more or less implicitly pre-determined messages that the text transmits. Certainly some ideological responses are definitely triggered by Buffy and I will briefly make reference to two critical examples. Brian Wall and Michael Zyrd adopt a Marxist master frame of analysis to determine the world historical content of Buffy.

Whites v. Slaves :: American America History

Whites v. Slaves Throughout the nineteenth century, the relationship between Africans and White settlers had never been exactly pleasant, most Africans were slaves who were usually treated badly and therefore never did respect their white owners. However, over time, these slaves began to revolutionize their culture, language, and points of view based on their environment. Many changes were occurring in this period of time, thus creating countless opportunities for the African Americans to fabricate their new culture. A catalyst to this development of the new society is the noted differences the Africans and whites possess. Many of the Africans despised the whites, so they tired to stay as far away from them as possible, this rift in the peoples created the main African culture, purely based on the opposite ideas that the whites held. On the other hand, many times the White people would help out the Africans, and a bond would form between the slaves and their master. Although the groups tried to remain different in this situation, the ideas between the two mingled together and they influenced each other. As horrific as slavery may have seemed at the time, I think it may have been a "positive good", simply due to the actuality that at this time, White people were exceedingly ignorant, and without slavery, they possibly would not have a way of dealing with interactions with the slaves. As we look to post-Civil wartime, up to the time of MLK, we see that ignorance was an infestation throughout all of us, without the slavery, Africans were treated with the utmost disrespect. Common rights were stripped from them, and at times they were reduced to being treated like animals. During the period in question, the two races grew into coexisting without any major conflict or altercation. Comparatively to the north, the slave southern states did not seem to treat its workers any worse. It was said that at the time, the slaves were achieving better shelter, food and clothing. The migrant workers in the north at many times worked similar 10-14 hour shifts, and at many times, the slaved did not work that many hours, depending on what type of system they were working. Plus the workers up north did not have much food to eat, or clothes to wear, something the slaves did enjoy. Whites v. Slaves :: American America History Whites v. Slaves Throughout the nineteenth century, the relationship between Africans and White settlers had never been exactly pleasant, most Africans were slaves who were usually treated badly and therefore never did respect their white owners. However, over time, these slaves began to revolutionize their culture, language, and points of view based on their environment. Many changes were occurring in this period of time, thus creating countless opportunities for the African Americans to fabricate their new culture. A catalyst to this development of the new society is the noted differences the Africans and whites possess. Many of the Africans despised the whites, so they tired to stay as far away from them as possible, this rift in the peoples created the main African culture, purely based on the opposite ideas that the whites held. On the other hand, many times the White people would help out the Africans, and a bond would form between the slaves and their master. Although the groups tried to remain different in this situation, the ideas between the two mingled together and they influenced each other. As horrific as slavery may have seemed at the time, I think it may have been a "positive good", simply due to the actuality that at this time, White people were exceedingly ignorant, and without slavery, they possibly would not have a way of dealing with interactions with the slaves. As we look to post-Civil wartime, up to the time of MLK, we see that ignorance was an infestation throughout all of us, without the slavery, Africans were treated with the utmost disrespect. Common rights were stripped from them, and at times they were reduced to being treated like animals. During the period in question, the two races grew into coexisting without any major conflict or altercation. Comparatively to the north, the slave southern states did not seem to treat its workers any worse. It was said that at the time, the slaves were achieving better shelter, food and clothing. The migrant workers in the north at many times worked similar 10-14 hour shifts, and at many times, the slaved did not work that many hours, depending on what type of system they were working. Plus the workers up north did not have much food to eat, or clothes to wear, something the slaves did enjoy.

Pros and Cons of Drugs

The Pros of Illegal Drugs Many countries along with the United States have laws forbidding the possession, sale, and use of certain drugs ranging everywhere from marijuana to heroin. Though many countries classify these drugs as illegal, I believe certain ones are not as bad as people portray them as. In my mind, the illegal drug cannabis, also known as marijuana should be legalized since it can not only improve the economy but its side effects are not that foreign to other legal drugs. I believe marijuana should be legalized considering its side effects are not too extreme.Drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine should not be legalized. These drugs carry strong side effects and are damaging to the body, resulting in damage to the human body. A debatable point on the matter is the money these drugs produce. Some believe that legalizing these certain drugs will in turn help the suffering economy we are now facing. Though this may be true in some aspects, it is an awful idea in others. Yes, legalizing these drugs would bring in a large profit considering how pricy they are, however it also would be very harmful to the people using them.These drugs can be overdosed on very easily, and if so it can result in severe harm or even death. Marijuana on the other hand can also produce a large profit without those severe consequences. Side effects of marijuana are quite minor compared to other illegal drugs. It speeds up the user’s heart rate and causes physical impairment. The worst of its side effects are breathing difficulties and the increase in chances of getting lung cancer. These side effects are exactly the same as those of cigarette consumers.Smoking tobacco cigarettes carries the same side effects plus even more due to the buildup of tar it causes in the lungs and yet the sale and consumption of such a product is still legal. I see the use of marijuana as a combination of the consummation of alcohol and cigarettes at the same time. These side e ffects are not that bad compared to those of more potent drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The sale of an illegal drug such as marijuana could really boost the already struggling economy.If the government were to contribute to the sale of marijuana by adding a sale tax to it, it could provide the government with much needed money. The legalization of such a drug would create a high supply and demand for the product, which would allow the government to modern its sale and production. It would also provide the economy with more jobs. It would open up more employment for those suffering from the economy’s state considering the product would need to be produced and grown in large amounts.Along with the help the sale of marijuana could produce towards the economy, it would also eliminate the â€Å"forbidden fruit† variable. Young adolescents tend to be drawn into actions that they are forbidden to do. Legalizing marijuana would end that and would in turn e ven keep the use to a minimum for many individuals. There are many pros to legalizing certain illegal drugs within the United States. Legalizing marijuana would help more than it would do harm.Other drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine should not be legalized due to their harmful side effects, even though they would bring in a large profit. Though marijuana would not produce quite as much profit as those more potent drugs, it would still contribute greatly to the economy. It would not only provide the government with money if it was taxed, but it would also contribute to the work force. The high demand for the product if legalized would create jobs for unemployed persons. The legalization of a drug such as this would contribute to the U. S. ’s struggling economy.

Macpherson Refrigeration Limited

Read the case, and answer the following questions:1.Search in the library (books on Operations Management or Production Management), to find the main components of the â€Å"Aggregate Production Planning† problem and briefly describe which are â€Å"pure strategies† and â€Å"mixed strategies† to solve this problem.The aggregate demand is the total demand for all products/services produced by a production facility without considering size, models, etc., usually there are significant seasonal variations. The objective of the Aggregate Production Plan is to manage production in order to meet the aggregate demand, matching capacity with demand fluctuations.The main components of APP are: external (Market Demand, Economic Conditions, Raw Material Availability and Competitors Behaviors) and internal (Production, Workforce Level, Inventory Level, Subcontracting, Backlog Policy, Physical Plant Capacity, Union Agreement, Capital Limit, among others).The mentioned compone nts can be modified to create production strategies which can be applied to this problem:Pure strategies: Considering one variable at a time to demand fluctuation: 1.Varying Workforce Level (Hiring or Firing). 2.Varying Production Rate (Overtime/Length of Work Hour) 3.Varying Inventory Level (High or Low).Mixed strategies: Considering two or more variables at a time to demand fluctuation: 1.Varying both Workforce Level and Inventory Level. 2. Varying both Production Rate and Inventory Level.2.Find the following parameters of the problem (specify the units involved):Productivity450 app/worker-year Expected for next year: 480 app/worker-year Regular Labour Cost$10.50/hr-worker Overtime Labour Cost1.5 times the regular hourly rate; $15.75/hr-worker Hiring Costs$1,800/worker Layoff Costs$1,200/worker Inventory Holding Costs$8/app-month Initial capacity13,000 app/month Beginning Inventory240 app3) What are the main advantages and disadvantages of each of the actions (page 2, item 6) avai lable to the company to meet demand? How can these actions be combined?1.Building inventory to meet peaks ïÆ' ¼Protection against unforeseen demand changes. ïÆ' ¼Inventory accumulation will be drawn down during peak demand periods. XIn periods of low demand, inventory would be accumulated and it would generate high holding costs.2.Using overtime ïÆ' ¼No inventory carrying costs. ïÆ' ¼Workforce held just to meet average monthly requirements. XExcessive overtime might lead to lower efficiency. XRestricted production might promote poor work habits and low morale.3.Hiring and laying off workers ïÆ' ¼The cheapest alternative. XUnion relations and employee morale could be adversely affected by frequent layoffs. X Hiring and training employees would be a problem (limited labour market).4) Replicate in an Excel spreadsheet, page 4 (Exhibit 1). It's not just to copy the spreadsheet, but to write down the formulas to incorporate the production flow balance. A similar flow balance can be obtained for workers.  There are also formulas to include all the costs involved. Although you may discuss these questions with your team, you must submit your work individually.