Book Report: The Hunger Games Essay

Characters: * Katniss Everdeen (girl on fire)

Death in Cross Cultural Perspectives Essay

There are different mourning ceremonies, traditions, and behaviors to express grief, but the concept of permanent loss remains unchanged in cross cultural setting. With this paper I will identify cross-cultural perspectives on death and dying, and will analyze multiple beliefs relating to death phenomenon. Furthermore I will identify different cultural mourning ceremonies and will analyze their impact on grieving process and coping mechanisms. Death is a universal phenomenon, but individual responses to death vary widely from culture to culture. In effort to explain the concept of death, many different cultures bring a significant symbolic meaning to the dying process in terms of rituals, ceremonies, and bereavement practices. Grieving and funeral rituals vary greatly across cultures and, in most cases, are associated with religious practices and beliefs. People tend to look at the death phenomena through the scope of their religious beliefs and often relate their personal experiences with death to cultural norms and traditions. Our culture affects the length of grieving process, mourning ceremonies, and even influence the way we cry during funerals. The mystery of death is often associated with fear and anxiety, thus it is easier for people to relate indefinite death concept to something that makes sense and brings comfort. Death in Latino culture According to Lobar, Youngblut and Brooten (2006), Latino death rituals are heavily influenced by religion, especially Catholicism, which underlines an importance of connection between the living and a deceased person, through prayer. Death is not something the majority of Hispanics fear, because many of them perceive death as a journey. The dying process is closely related to religious practices, such as prayers, hearing the confession of the dying, communion, and a blessing. Ongoing support is essential element of dying and grieving process, and in this particular culture it is unacceptable to let people die alone. The loyalty to a dying person and care that ill person receives during the last journey is very prominent in Latino culture. Death concept in Hispanic culture is closely related to family obligations, which is evident by the care that Hispanic family renders to a dying person during last moments. After death occurs, the family still prefers to stay with the body during burial preparation to pray and to watch over the body. Prior funeral a wake is held, which is a very social event where an extended family has a chance to get together, serve food and drinks, and enjoy each others’ company. Candles and flowers are essential decorating attributes of wakes and funerals. A funeral follows a wake, and during funeral family has a chance to say last goodbyes to their loved one. Emotional expression of grief is important attribute of Latino cultures which is often evident during funeral ceremonies where women cry loudly and use their body language openly. It is not unusual to put personal items into the casket with the person who has passed away for their journey in the afterlife, which also serves as an example of a finial gift from a family (Lobar, Youngblut & Brooten, 2006). Burial follow a funeral, because majority of Hispanics oppose cremation, which is also related to their religious beliefs and importance of placing a body in the ground. Most Hispanics believe that someday the dead will arise and return to life, which significantly influences their burial preferences. It is crucial for Hispanics to be buried next to other family members to keep them company and to arise together someday (Lobar, Youngblut & Brooten, 2006). Spiritual connection with the dead is also one of the important elements of Latino culture, which is demonstrated by frequent gravesite visits and praying to spirits. Death is always associated with separation, which leads to sorrow, and grief; however cultural perceptions and beliefs help to look at death from a different perspective and perceive death as a natural state that can be approached with love, respect, dignity, and tremendous family support. Latino culture supports their dying people during the last journey, and believes in afterlife, which gives them hope and helps to overcome unbearable grief of permanent loss. Death rituals in Africa African culture demonstrates a strong connection with deceased person, and believes that only a correct burial will bring a dead person peace. People n Africa strongly believe in spiritual life, thus their main goal during burial ceremonies is to address a spirit of a deceased person. An African funeral begins with removal of the body from home, which is done through a previously made hole in the wall of the home. Africans remove a dead body through the hole, instead of a door, to confuse a spirit and m ake sure that a spirit of a deceased person will not return back home, as a hole in the wall is immediately closed after removal of the body. In effort to confuse a spirit even more, they place thorns and sticks in a zigzag pattern along the way as body being taken to the place of burial. Blackely et al, 1994). In the religions of Africa, life does not end with death and people tend to believe in power of the dead, thus many families often pray to spirits and ask them not to come back and cause any trouble. Death is perceived as the beginning of connection with visible and invisible worlds. One of the funeral rituals include special preparation of a home, such as smearing windows with ashes and turning pictures and other reflective objects face down to ensure that deceased person is detached from a living, and to promote smooth transition into different world. The beds are usually removed from deceased’s bedroom and mourning women sit on a floor or a mattress. According to African culture, if correct funeral is not observed, a dead person may come back and bother the living. The funeral preparation takes approximately from seven to thirteen days, which gives the community members a chance to visit and give the last respect to a deceased (Mbiti, 1969). The funeral ceremony usually begins before the sunrise, because people believe that bad spirits usually sleep early in the morning. The pastoral care during funeral preparation is very important for comfort and encouragement. According to Blackely et al (1994), African funerals simultaneously mourn for the dead and celebrate life. An animal is usually killed during funerals to avoid bad luck, but it also has a practical purpose, such as providing food for family and neighbors. In many communities women and unmarried adults are not allowed to attend funerals, as well as close family members are not allowed to speak or take any vocal part in the funeral ceremony. The community involvement during African funerals is a great example of psychosocial and emotional support during mourning process, which draws people together and promotes healthy grief. Jewish rituals There are many different beliefs in Judaism, thus funeral rituals and ceremonies vary greatly. According to Jewish laws, practices, and beliefs, a soul returns to heaven immediately after death, thus the body has to be buried as soon as possible, usually within 24 to 48 hours (Lobar, Youngblut & Brooten, 2006). Mourners show their grief by wearing a black ribbon and by performing only minimal grooming and bathing. Mirrors or other reflective objects may be covered and family remains with a deceased and talks about a deceased. Prayers, citations of Psalms and learned passages from the Talmud are essential elements of the Jewish funerals (Ribner, 1998). According to Clements et al (2003), a body should be treated with respect due to belief that it is a temple of a soul. There is a special ritual of body preparation, where women prepare a female body and men are responsible for preparing a male body. All jewelry must be removed from the body, and the body is washed twice, and is treated almost if it was still alive. The prepared body is laid on the floor with candles around it, and the body is never left alone. There is no embalming and the body is clothed or wrapped and put into wooden coffin, so the body and the box can return entirely to earth. Traditional Jewish funerals are symbolic representations of spiritual connection with God. The funeral ceremonies are based on purity, simplicity and dignity. According to Jewish tradition, wealthy and poor are equal before God, thus the body must be buried in the same type of garment regardless of financial and social status. According to Jewish religion, death is only a part of a process, and after death a soul continues on. Jewish people believe in afterlife, which gives them hope and helps to deal with grief. The importance of family is recognized throughout Jewish mourning ceremonies, which value family privacy during first seven days of mourning process, where close family gets together and have a meal of condolence that include eggs and bread. According to the belief, eggs symbolize life, which is a great example of attitude towards death and strong belief in afterlife (Madsen, 1999). Cross cultural perspective Death is a universal phenomenon, but funerals ceremonies and rituals vary greatly across cultures and religions. Many cultural groups carry their own beliefs and perceptions, which help them with the grieving process and adaptations strategies. Death carries a feeling of a permanent loss, which is very difficult for people to accept. According to Kastenbaum (2007), bereavement is a universal experience, which carries many painful responses, including depression, distress, fear, and misery. Our inner state feelings are universal, however or external expressions are different. Our culture and religious beliefs are essential elements of adaptation strategies and coping techniques. Believing in afterlife in Christianity, Judaism, and many other religious groups gives people hope, helps to alleviate grief, and promotes healthy adaptation process. Strong extended family support during mourning process helps to share unbearable grief among family members and serves as an excellent source of encouragement. Strong community involvement is extremely beneficial during bereavement, which helps to take care of financial struggles and provides psychosocial support. Cross cultural rituals help people express their grief according to their beliefs. Almost every funeral ceremony is family oriented, which is designed to bring extended family together, to celebrate life, and to set the background for healthy grief. There are many similarities and differences in beliefs and practices on death and dying. But for many cultures and religious groups a funeral is a final act of love, respect, devotion, and family gathering.

Difference between Capital and Revenue Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Difference between Capital and Revenue - Essay Example For instance, revenue can be funds that go towards staffing, utilities, daily supply, or purchases of services for external providers. In financial accounting these costs are referred to as revenue expenditures. These sorts of expenditures can be contrasted with capital. Capital, while physically constituting the organizations’ operating funds just like revenue, is spending that goes towards long-term assets. One recognizes that just like revenue expenditures, capital expenditures can constitute a variety of things. The main understanding that differentiates revenue expenditures from capital expenditures, however, is that capital expenditures are things that will last or have a shelf life for a number of years (‘What is a capital expenditure versus a revenue expenditure’ 2010). For a technology company, capital expenditures could constitute everything from buildings to expensive information technology platforms. For an oil company such as EXXON, capital expenditur es would be deep-water oilrigs, pipelines, or other such long-term

Physics (Electron Physics and X-ray Tomography) Coursework - 1

Physics (Electron Physics and X-ray Tomography) - Coursework Example gher than that of the photon attraction for the jump to take place from K-shell to the L-shell, loosely bound electrons from L moves into the K-shell to replace the ejected electron. When a lot of high incident energy are directed to an atom, many electrons are emitted and forms the x-rays. Bremsstrahlung is the process of slowing down primary radiatin; X-ray is produced by radiations when electrons are retarded or decelerated2.. The radiation becomes intense and attains higher frequencies with increase in energy of bombarding electrons. The colliding electrons shifts electrons from high-energy shell to low energy shells, the rapid replacement by electrons from outer shells create a clearly defined x-ray. The curve shown below was produced by analysing the nature of radiation produced by bombarding electrons from four distinct energy levels against a tungsten target. The graph is used to relate the intensity of x-rays emitted and the wavelength for accurate x-ray photographing. The figure above shows X-ray spectrograph when copper is used as the target material, the intensity of the photon have linear relation with the wavelength. The intensity rises to peak then starts to slope downwards; high accelerating voltage causes the peak to rise sharply, as shown by Kp, KÃŽ ±, LP and LÃŽ ±. X-ray tube functions as energy converting system that converts electric energy into x-ray radiation and heat. Heat3 is the undesired product of the process; the conversion takes place in x-ray tube. The components of x-ray tube includes The higher the amount of current the higher the intensity of x-rays emitted since more of electrons are displaced from the high energy levels. In the case above, 5mA produces much lower intensity of X-rays as compared to 100mA since the rate of electron displacement is high in the first case characterized by the high peak of 100mA current4. b) Attenuation by photoelectric effect result from interaction between Photons and Matter. Photons are

Islam and democracy are not compatible comment on this sentence Essay

Islam and democracy are not compatible comment on this sentence - Essay Example The nature of Islam as a religion accounts for the reason why democracy is a distant vision in the vast Muslim world. Muslim scholars and political philosophers have conducted numerous empirical studies meant to establish the relationship between Islam and democracy. Most of these empirical studies are motivated by the fact that there has been a profound resistance of democracy by Muslims; thus indicating that Islam and democracy are not compatible. As an illustration of the aforementioned incompatibility, we will discuss interaction of religion and democracy in modern Islamic states like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and Indonesia. Admittedly, Saudi Arabia has been an absolute monarchy state since time immemorial. Citizens of Saudi Arabia have never participated in any political election (58-59).1 The only reason for this absence of participation is attributed to the fact that the absolute monarchy system in Saudi Arabia does not permit formation of political parties. The king, who is the leader of the royal family, literally rules the nation. However, the king must comply with Islamic law, commonly referred to as the Sharia. This means all functions and decisions of the royal leadership are made in accordance with provisions of Sharia. Influence of Islam remains fully practical particularly because the royal leadership performs all the executive, judicial and legislative functions.2 Presently, Saudi Arabia is an example of modern st ates where Islam remains fully influential in social, economic and political platforms. Unlike Saudi Arabia, Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy state. Citizens participate in election of parliamentary representatives. However, the king of Malaysia is appointed by a royal council of hereditary rulers. Citizens have limited participation in high-level politics. Recently, political parties like the

Strategies Embraced by Williams-Sonoma Company Case Study - 31

Strategies Embraced by Williams-Sonoma Company - Case Study Example The current policies embraced by Williams-Sonoma are increasingly becoming outdated. Till now, these strategies have been successful in increasing the business growth level within the company. Competition keeps growing day by day, and new companies are launched daily within the retail market industry. According to information from the case study, Williams-Sonoma has many market competitors who specialize in similar products(Rouse, 2010). Different companies are also adopting different strategies to distribute their products due to the adoption of new technological advancements. So, it is obligatory for Williams-Sonoma to adopt new strategies if they want to sustain their position in the retail market. If the company decides to maintain its current strategies, business competitors are likely to triumph over them by adopting the latest technologies, and strategies. Competing companies need an adequate competitive advantage in order to outperform each other. Without such strategies, performance may decline due to the various challenges experienced in an extremely competitive business. A company that updates its database regularly to accommodate after sale services attract potential buyers. For this reason, it is necessary for Williams-Sonoma to develop, and implement innovations if they expect to maintain their current market position and attain higher levels of business growth. The strategies used by Williams-Sonoma are very efficient, and I would adopt them if I were the CEO. By implementing these strategies, I would grow and enhance the success of the business. But, I would focus more attention towards expanding the international market rather than the US market alone. At the moment, Williams-Sonoma underestimates the potential of other markets in enhancing their business success. I believe the idea of expanding the market scope would benefit the company. I would also encourage more use of the modern telecommunication systems, and the Internet to broaden the market scope to other parts of the world.     

Money laundering and the use of abusive tax havens may be Essay

Money laundering and the use of abusive tax havens may be - Essay Example (Scott-Jyont, 2002). Examples of money laundering may be seen in the activities of individuals like Sani Abacha and Raul Salinas. Sani Abacha was the late dictator of Nigeria, who was able to divert $1.6 billion of the Nigerian tax payers’ money that was looted from them into large banks in the U.K. and Switzerland, where the large volumes of money that exchange hands almost on a daily basis, make it difficult if not downright impossible, to discover the exact sources of such funds that are placed into the banks by account holders (Scott-Jyont, 2002). Similarly, in the case of Raul Salinas, being the brother of the ex-President of Mexico allowed him the opportunity to loot large amounts of cash, which he then transferred into different countries and banks in order to appropriate the money for himself by obscuring the source, i.e, the Mexican taxpayers’ money. Simser (2006) has carried out a study, the purpose of which was to look into money laundering in general and then specifically examine the issue of money laundering in the context of the Philippines. The author points out that where money laundering is concerned, the Philippines was not formerly a compliant jurisdiction, and initial measures that were taken against money laundering in the Philippines were rejected by the international community. The measures that were finally approved as measures to effectively counter money laundering were (a) setting up a financial intelligence unit (b) strict regulation of financial intermediaries and (c) the provision of criminal and remedial measures, including the use of forfeiture based upon a civil, non conviction mode (Simser, 2006). The author concludes that these provisions have been approved but implementing them is likely to be a challenging prospect in the predominantly corruption ridden atmosphere that characterizes the Philippines. One of the major reasons why individuals or companies seek to hide

Concept Essay on effect of divorce on kids Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Concept on effect of divorce on kids - Essay Example They learn to cope with the circumstances resulting from divorce. Since all children possess unique qualities, they react to counseling strategies in their own ways. Their age and development phase counts very much toward their reaction to counseling. Moreover, the parent with whom the kids are residing must give proper care and attention to them. Although it is hard for the parent to resume a normal life (Berry, 1999, p.21), yet it is important for him or her to remember that they have to play double role for their kids now, both father’s and mother’s. The parent can also get them admitted in extra-curricular classes and activities like yoga, karate, swimming, and aerobics, so as to keep them busy. This will make them refrain from any negative thoughts. To make them live a healthy life, the parent should encourage them to spend quality time with friends, relatives, and neighbors- people who are one’s greatest â€Å"support network† (Heubeck, 2014, para. 6 ). In short, raising kids after divorce is never easy. The parent who is going to keep the kids must show extra courage and strength so that he may be able to carry the financial and emotional burden of the children. Otherwise, children may develop many negative behavioral

Clean Fuels and Dirty Fuels Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Clean Fuels and Dirty Fuels - Essay Example (US Sec 963) Emission Benefits: Clean fuels have numerous properties which make them cleaner than other dirty fuels like gasoline or adulterated diesel mixtures. Usually these fuels release fewer hydrocarbons, and the hydrocarbons emitted are less toxic and less reactive. Emissions from electricity, natural gas, or alcohol-powered vehicles can be roughly about 90% lesser than in toxics and ozone-forming hydrocarbons than emissions from vehicles using dirty fuel. (Chemical Engineering Tools and Information) Mileage Benefits: Apart from the emission benefits, the best thing that appeals the minds of the users is that the mileage difference is notable, which results in a lot of cost saving. Here, it is to be noted that there is a win-win situation. The better mileage advantage helps the companies increase their sale. Moreover, the customers get more than just cost effectiveness. European and Japanese automakers are about to invade the market with new clean-diesel models that catch much better mileage than the standard gasoline-burning model. Among the many contenders, Mercedes shall offer its SUVs -- M-Class, R-Class and GL-Class --with diesel engines. BMW aims to bring its popular turbo diesel engines to US models. And Nissan is coming with a diesel Maxima sedan. Volkswagen was an early pioneer in diesel in the US, but it will convert to new cleaner diesel technology in models starting 2008, which it dubs "Blue Motion." VW is betting its new TDI Jetta, which launches in February, will h elp stoke its US sales. (Business week May 04 2007) This makes it clear that the model is not only gaining popularity for its air benefits but also finding high acceptance with the users, which is why the major players have shifted their focus to it. The concept of clean fuels actually came up to start with its clean atmosphere benefits, but eventually in the drive vehicle manufacturers opened their eyes to its selling points too. Today, they have been able to design innovative models resulting in cost effectiveness, speed, lower maintenance etc. for the users compared to the conventional petrol and diesel run trucks/cars. It is to be noted that The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC is the first model in America to take advantage of the clean low-sulfer diesel (Autos, MSN) Feasibility Clean fueled transport vessels are in use and widespread usage in the near future is feasible. To facilitate the changeover, technologies must be polished so that the vehicles can be made to attain optimal performance and emissions features. Users must show their acceptability to better and newer vehicles and fuels, and industry as well as government must cooperate to ensure their availability. It would take a concerted endeavor by all segment s of the society, but a shift to clean fuels can be the most feasible way for cities to have clean air and for users to have a better performance along with cost cutting. Dirty Fuels Meaning Fuel that is contaminated with water, particles, etc., generally causing an engine to

Evolution of Porters Five Forces Model Essay Example for Free

Evolution of Porters Five Forces Model Essay Five forces is a framework for the industry analysis and business strategy development developed by Michael E. Porter of Harvard Business School in 1979. Michael Porter is a professor at Harvard Business School andis a leading authority on competitive strategy and international competitiveness.Michael Porter was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Five forces uses concepts developing, Industrial Organization (IO) economics to derive five forces that determine the competitive intensity and therefore attractiveness of a market. Attractiveness in this context refers to the industry profitability. An unattractive industry is one where the combination of forces acts to drive down overall profitability. A very unattractive industry would be one approaching pure competition. Introduction Five Forces Model by Michael Porter Five Forces model of Michael Porter is a very elaborate concept for evaluating companys competitive position. Michael Porter provided a framework that models an industry and therefore implicitly alsobusinesses asbeing influenced by five forces.Michael Porters Five Forces model is often used in strategic planning. Porters competitive fiveforces model is probably one of the mostcommonly used business strategy tools and has proven its usefulness in numerous situations when exploring strategic management models . Three of Porters five forces refer to competition from external sources. The remainder are internal threats. It is useful to use Porters five forces in conjunction with SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats). A change in any of the forces normally, requires a business unit to re-assess the marketplace given the overall change in industry information. The overall industry attractiveness does not imply that every firm in the industry will return the same profitability. Firms are able to apply their core competencies, business model or network to achieve a profit above the industry average. Porters five forces include : Three forces from horizontal competition * Threat of new entrants or barriers to entry * Threat of substitute products or substitutes * Threat of established rivals or competitive rivalry Two forces from vertical competition * The bargaining power of buyers or buyers * The bargaining power of suppliers or suppliers Force 1: Barriers to entry Barriers to entry measure how easy or difficult it is for new entrants to enter into the industry. This can involve for example: * Cost advantages (economies of scale, economies of scope) * Access to production inputs and financing, * Government policies and taxation * Production cycle and learning curve * Capital requirements * Access to distribution channels Patents, branding, and image also fall into this category. Force 2: Threat of substitutes Every top decision maker has to ask: How easy can our product or service be substituted? The following needs to be analyzed: * How much does it cost the customer to switch to competing products or services? * How likely are customers to switch? * What is the price-performance trade-off of substitutes? If a product can be easily substituted, then it is a threat to the company because it can compete with price only. Force 3: Competitive Rivalry In this,we have to analyze the level of competition between existing players in the industry. * Is one player very dominant or all equal in strength/size? * Are there exit barriers? * How fast does the industry grow? * Does the industry operate at surplus or shortage? * How is the industry concentrated? * How do customers identify themselves with your brand? * Is the product differentiated? * How well are rivals diversified? Force 4: Bargaining power of buyers Now the question is how strong the position of buyers is. For example,cancustomerswork together to order large volumes to squeeze your profit margins? The following is a list of other examples: * Buyer volume and concentration * What information buyershave * Competitive price * How loyal are customers to your brand * Price sensitivity * Threat of backward integration * How well differentiated your product is * Availability ofsubstitutes Having a customer that has the leverage to dictate your prices is not a good position. Force 5: Bargaining power of suppliers This relates to what your suppliers can do in relationship with you. * How strong is the position of sellers? * Are there many or only few potential suppliers? * Is there a monopoly? * Do you take inputs from a single supplier or from a group? (concentration) * How much do you take from each of your suppliers? * Can you easily switch from one supplier to another one? (switching costs) * If you switch to another supplier, will it affect the cost and differentiation of your product? * Are there other suppliers with the same inputs available? (substitute inputs) Need for Porters five forces Model In general, any CEO or a strategic business manager is trying to steer his or her business in a direction where the businesswill develop an edge over rival firms. Michael Porters model of Five Forcescan be used to better understand the industry context in which the firm operates. Porters Five Forces model is a strategy tool that is used to analyze attractiveness of an industry structure. Porters Five Forces modelviews thebusiness fromoutside. It focuses on assessing competitive position within industry .Porters Five Forces model in the internal view. Automobile Industry The auto manufacturing industry is considered to be highlycapital and labor intensive. The major costs for producing and selling automobiles include: Labor While machines and robots are playing a greater role in manufacturing vehicles, there are still substantial labor costs in designing and engineering automobiles. Advertising Each year automakers spend billions on print and broadcast advertising, furthermore, they spent large amounts of money on market research to anticipate consumer trends and preferences. The auto market is thought to be made primarily of automakers, but auto parts makes up anotherlucrative sector of the market. The major areas of auto parts manufacturing are: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) The big auto manufacturers do produce some of their own parts, but they cant produce every part and component that goes into a new vehicle. Companies in this industry manufacture everything from door handles to seats. Replacement Parts Production and Distribution These are the parts that are replaced after the purchase of a vehicle. Air filters, oil filers and replacement lights are examples of products from this area of the sector. Rubber Fabrication This includes everything from tires, hoses, belts, etc. In auto industry, a large proportion of revenue comes from selling automobiles. The parts market is even more lucrative. For example, a new car might cost $18,000 to buy, but if you bought, from the automaker, all the parts needed to construct that car, it would cost 300-400% more ./p A significant portion of an automakers revenue comes from the services itoffers with the new vehicle. Offering lower financial rates than financial institutions, the car company makes a profit on financing. Extended warranties also factor into the bottom line. Greater emphasis on leasing has also helped increase revenues. The advantage of leasing is that it eases consumer fears about resale value, and it makes the car sound more affordable. From a makers perspective, leasing is a great way to hide the true price of the vehicle through financing costs. Car companies, then, are able to push more cars through. Unfortunately, profiting on leasing is not as easy as it sounds. Leasing requires the automakers to accurately judge the value of their vehicles at the end of the lease, otherwise they may actually lose money. Indian Automobile Industry The Indian automobile industry is the tenth largest in the world with an annual production of approximately 2 million units. Indian auto industry, promises to become the major automotive industry in the upcoming years and the industry experts are hopeful that it will touch 10 million units mark. Indian automobile industry is involved in design, development, manufacture, marketing, and sale of motor vehicles. There are a number of global automotive giants that are upbeat about the expansion plans and collaboration with domestic companies to produce automobiles in India. Major car manufacturers The major car manufacturers in India are Maruti Udyog, Hyundai Motors India Ltd., General Motors India Pvt. Ltd., Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., Toyota Kirloskar Motor Ltd., Hindustan Motors etc.The two-wheeler manufacturers in India are Honda Motorcycle Scooter India (Pvt.) Ltd., TVS, Hero Honda, Yamaha, Bajaj, etc. The heavy motors including buses, trucks, auto rickshaws and multi-utility vehicles are manufactured by Tata-Telco, Eicher Motors, Bajaj, Mahindra and Mahindra, etc. * The passenger car segment in the Indian auto industry is growing by 8-9 percent. * Commercial vehicle will grow by 5.2 per cent. * India is a potential emerging auto market. * Motorcycles contribute 80% of the two-wheeler industry. * India is the largest two-wheeler manufacturer in the world. * Indias motorcycle segment will grow by 8-9 percent in the coming years. 11. India is the fifth largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in the world. 12. India has the number one global motorcycle manufacturer. 13. In Asia, India is the fourth largest car market. * Unlike the USA, the Indian passenger vehicle market is dominated by cars (79%). Used car Market The new chapter in the automobile industry is that of used cars. The massive demand of used cars indicates that cars are becoming increasingly popular. Those who cant afford the luxury cars and their high prices are opting for used cars. In todays time, customers are conscious and diligently investing on car dealership. Car buyers are investing heavily a lot of time for both to sell a car and buy car. Theres also a number of car websites that have offering detailed information on new car prices, used cars, car reviews, Chevrolet cars, jaguar cars and luxury cars. Market Share At present major Indian, European, Korean, Japanese automobile companies are holding significant market shares. In commercial vehicle, Tata Motors dominates over 60% of the Indian commercial vehicle market. Tata Motors is the largest medium and heavy commercial vehicle manufacturer.Car manufacturers in India dominate the passenger vehicle market by 79%. Maruti Suzuki is the largest car producer in India and has 52% share in passenger cars and is a complete monopoly in multi purpose vehicles. In utility vehicles Mahindra holds 42% share. Hyundai and Tata Motors is the second and third car producer in India The automobile Industry in India is now working in terms of the dynamics of an open market. Many joint ventures have been set up in India with foreign collaboration, both technical and financial with leading global manufacturers. Also a very large number of joint ventures have been set up in the auto-components sector and the pace is expected to pick up even further. The Government of India is keen to provide a suitable economic, and business environment conducive to the success of the established and prospective foreign partnership ventures. $5.7 billion is the investment envisaged in the new vehicles projects. Porters five forces model on Automobile Industry 1. Barriers to Entry Its true that the average person cant come along and start manufacturing automobiles. The emergence of foreign competitors with the capital, required technologies and management skills began to undermine the market share of many automobile companies. Globalization the tendency of  world investment and businesses to move from national and domestic markets to a worldwide environment, is a huge factor affecting the auto market. More than ever, itis becoming easier for foreign automakers to enter the Domestic market .Automobiles depend heavily on consumer trends and tastes. While car companies do sell a large proportion of vehicles to businesses and car rental companies (fleet sales), consumer sales is the largest source of revenue. For this reason, taking consumer and business confidence into accountshould be ahigher priority than considering the regular factors like earnings growth anddebt load . 2. Threat of Substitutes Rather than looking at the threat of someone buying a different car, there is also need to also look at the likelihood of people taking the bus, train or airplane to their destination. The higher the cost of operating a vehicle, the more likely people will seek alternative transportation options. The price of gasoline has a large effect on consumers decisions to buy vehicles. Trucks and sport utility vehicles have higher profit margins, but they also guzzle gas compared to smaller sedans and light trucks. When determining the availability of substitutes you should also consider time, money, personal preference and convenience in the auto travel industry. Then decide if one car maker poses a big threat as a substitute. 3. Competitive Rivalry Highly competitive industries generally earn low returns because the cost of competition is high. The auto industry is considered to be an oligopoly (A market condition in which sellers are so few that the actions of any one of them will materially affect price) which helps to minimize the effects of price-based competition. The automakers understand that price-based competition does not necessarily lead to increases in the size of the marketplace, historically they have tried to avoid price-based competition, but more recently the competition has intensified rebates, preferred financing and long-term warranties have helped to lure in customers, but they also put pressure on the profit margins for vehicle sales. Every year, car companies update their cars. This is a part of normal operations, but there can be a problem when a company decides to significantly change the design of a car. These changes can cause massive delays and glitches, which result in increased costs and slower revenue growth. While a new design may pay off significantly in the long run, its always a risky proposition 4. Bargaining Power of Suppliers The automobile supply business is quite  fragmented (there are many firms). Many suppliers rely on one or two automakers to buy a majority of their products. If an automaker decided to switch suppliers, it could be devastating to the previous suppliers business. As a result, suppliers are extremely susceptible to the demands and requirements of the automobile manufacturer and hold very little power. For parts suppliers, the life span of an automobile is very important. The longer a car stays operational, thegreater theneed for replacement parts. On the other hand, new parts are lasting longer, which is great for consumers, but is not suchgood news for parts makers. When, for example, most car makers moved from using rolled steel to stainless steel, the change extended the life of parts by several years. 5. Bargaining Power of Buyers -The bargaining power of automakers are unchallenged. Consumers may become dissatisfied with many of the products being offered by certain automakers and began looking for alternatives, namely foreign cars. On the other hand, while consumers are very price sensitive, they dont have much buying power as they never purchase huge volumes of cars. Example : Porters 5 Forces Model of the NANO car There is continuing interest in the study of the forces that impact on an organisation, particularly those that can be harnessed to provide competitive advantage. The ideas and models which emerged during the period from 1979 to the mid-1980s were based on the idea that competitive advantage came from the ability to earn a return on investment that was better than the average for the industry sector. As Porters 5 Forces analysis deals with factors outside an industry that influence the nature of competition within it, the forces inside the industry (microenvironment) that influence the way in which firms compete . BARRIERS TO ENTRY Time and cost of entry Time is most essential thing while launching a product in any market. The launch of the NANO is quite viable as the demand of the small car is on the rise in the market. By the cost of the entry we mean the initial capital required to set up a new firm is very high, it makes the chances of the chances of new entrants are very less. Knowledge and Technology Ideas and Knowledge that provides competitive advantage over others when patented, preventing others from using it and thus creates  barrier to entry. The TATA motors have great knowledge/ experience in the automobile industry and has renowned technological advantage because of the recent acquisition and mergers. Product Differentiation and Cost Advantage The new product has to be different and attractive to be accepted by the customers. Attractiveness can be measured in the terms of the features , price etc. At this level the price of the NANO car was one thing that is attracting customers. And above all this the image , trust the name TATA carries with it. Government Policy and Expected Retaliation Although governments job is to preserve free competitive market, it restricts competition through regulations and restrictions. The government tried to promote the TATA Motors to start a plant by providing land and tax rebates. But the unexpected retaliation by the local people surface in the setting up of the plant which costed the company a lot. Access to Distribution Channels When a new product a launched a well developed distribution is must for its success. The TATA motors had a advantage of well established distribution channel across the world. SUBSTITUTES Price band The threat that consumer will switch to a substitute product if there has been an increase in price of the product or there has been a decrease in price of the substitute product. If the price of the NANO car will increase the main expected customers ie the one switching from bike to car will not move to car and will remain in the bike only. Thus the price is kept checked in this manner. Substitutes performance The performance of the substitute sector will also play a important role in the success of the NANO car. If the price of the Bike segment increases or the price band of the small segment fall , it will have effect on the quantity required in the market. Its just on the price but also the features and the other services associated or it may be the status symbol story. The success of the electric car segment with player like REVA can also effect the demand of the NANO. Buyers willingness Products with improving price/performance tradeoffs relative to present industry products. It will determine the willingness of the buyer to but the NANO car.The willingness of the customers to go forward try the new product in the market ie NANO. They might be willing to go for the test products like Maruti 800 , Santro etc. COMPETITIVE RIVALRY Number and Diversity of Competitor This describes the competition between the existing firms in an industry. the current Business Policy Competitive Strategy scenario, the small car market in India is very competitive with players like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Hyundai etc. which was pretty much dominated by Maruti. But with launch of Nano the 1 lakh car the whole momentum of the market has shifted. Now to be competitive in market other companies have to either slash rates of their existing model or have to go back to the drawing board and build again. Price Competition Advertising battles may increase total industry demand, but may be costly to smaller competitors. Products with similar function limit the prices firms can charge. Price competition often leaves the entire industry worse off. NANO is the only player so it has the price freedom but as the Maruti and Honda are also planning to launch the car in the same segment the price competition will start. Exit Barriers Even if the product fails in the market its not that easy for the company to exit the market just like that because of the heavy investment it has made in the initial stage. If the NANO fails or falls flat the TATA motors will not be in a state to slow done the product even when NANO production line can be used by the other products after few modification as for NANO only the new product line were setup and huge cost were incurred. Product Quality Increasing consumer warranties or service is very common these days. To maintain low cost, companies consistently has to make manufacturing improvements to keep the business competitive. This requires additional capital expenditure which tends to eat up companys earning. On the other hand if no one else can provide products/ services the way you do you have a monopoly. NANO enjoys the monopoly are there are no competitors in this segment. BUYERS Switching Costs If switching to another product is simple and cheap the customers does not think much before doing it. In case of NANO car the switching cost from bike to car is too high. Thus increasing the demand of the car many fold. Number of customers/ Volume of sales If there are few buyers then they are able to dictate the terms. They pull down the cost by Bargaining. The bargaining power of buyer is high as there are lot of choice available to the buyer and the service do not vary from one manufacturer to  the other. They force the manufactures to improve the quality. All this can be clearly seen in the case of NANO car the price tag at which it has been offered or the quality of the NANO car no compromises has been done at any front. Brand Image The brand image of the TATA and the segment in which the NANO has been the most attractive thing in the entire package. SUPPLIERS Number and Size of Suppliers A company to manufacture its products requires raw material, labor etc. If there are few suppliers providing material essential to make a product then they can set the price high to capture more profit. Powerful suppliers can squeeze industry profitability to great extend. In case of NANO the supplier are limited and the size of the suppliers are big enough to bring about the controlling power in the price of the car. The NANO car has more than 128 suppliers in all and the major portion of the building cost of the car is the parts supplied by the suppliers. Unique Service / Product Suppliers products have few substitutes. Supplier industry is dominated by a few firms. The some parts of the NANO car are obtain from the supplier who them are big enough and limited substitutes are available against them. So the entire production line depends upon them only. Ability to substitute Suppliers products have high switching costs. In many case even when substitute are available its not that easy to opt for substitute as the next product in the assembly line depends upon it. If the change in the any part is brought about the long list of depended parts also have to be changed , which in most cases is not feasible to do. Tata motors strengths The internationalisation strategy so far has been to keep local managers in new acquisitions, and to only transplant a couple of senior managers from India into the new market. The benefit is that Tata has been able to exchange expertise. For example after the Daewoo acquisition the Indian company leaned work discipline and how to get the final product right first time. ï‚ · Tata Motors Limited acquired Daewoo Motors Commercial vehicle business in 2004 for around USD $16 million. ï‚ · The company has had a successful alliance with Italian mass producer Fiat since 2006. This has  enhanced the product portfolio for Tata and Fiat in terms of production, knowledge exchange , logistics and its infrastructure.   In the summer of 2008 Tata Motors successfully purchased the Land Rover and Jaguar brands from Ford Motors for UK 2.3 million. Two of the Worlds luxury car brand have been added to its portfolio of brands, and has undoubtedly off the company the chance to market vehicles in the luxury segments. ï‚ · NANO is the cheapest car in the World. The range of Super Milo fuel efficient buses are powered by super-efficient, eco-friendly engines. Tata motors weaknesses The companys passenger car products are based upon 3rd and 4th generation platforms, which put Tata Motors Limited at a disadvantage with competing car manufacturers. Despite buying the Jaguar and Land Rover brands Tata has not got a foothold in the luxury car segment in its domestic, Indian market. The brand associated with commercial vehicles and low-cost passenger cars to the extent that it has isolated itself from lucrative segments in a more aspiring India. ï‚ · Other competing car manufacturers have been in the passenger car business for 40, 50 or more years. Therefore Tata Motors Limited has to catch up in terms of quality and lean production. Sustainability and environmentalism could mean extra costs for this low-cost producer. This could impact its underpinning competitive advantage. Obviously, as Tata globalises and buys into other brands this problem could be alleviated. Attractiveness of the Automobile Industry for Investment purpose Economic reforms and deregulation have transformed that scene. India has already become one of the fastest growing automobile markets in the world. The Indian automobile industry is going through a technological change where each firm is engaged in changing its processes and technologies to maintain the competitive advantage and provide customers with the optimized products and services. Starting from the two wheelers, trucks, and tractors to the multi utility vehicles, commercial vehicles and the luxury vehicles, the Indian automobile industry has achieved splendid achievement in the recent years. In the Indian economy, auto industry maintains a high-flying place. Automobile industry has a strong multiplier effect and is capable of being the driver of economic growth. A sound transportation system plays an  essential role in the countrys rapid economic and industrial development. The well-developed Indian automotive industry skillfully fulfils this catalytic role by producing a wide variety of vehicles: passenger cars, light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles, multi-utility vehicles such as jeeps, scooters, motorcycles, mopeds, three wheelers, tractors etc. The automotive sector is one of the core industries of the Indian economy, whose prospect is reflective of the economic resilience of the country. Continuous economic liberalization over the years by the government of India has resulted in making India as one of the prime business destination for many global automotive players. The automotive sector in India is growing at around 18 per cent per annum. The auto industry is just a multiplier, a driver for employment, for investment, for technology. The Indian automotive industry started its new journey from 1991 with delicensing of the sector and subsequent opening up for 100 per cent FDI through automatic route.The automobile sector has been contributing its share to the shining economic performance of India in the recent years. With the Indian middle class earning higher per capita income, more people are ready to own private vehicles including cars and two-wheelers. Product movements and manned services have boosted in the sales of medium and sized commercial vehicles for passenger and goods transport. Side by side with fresh vehicle sales growth, the automotive components sector has witnessed big growth. The domestic auto components consumption has crossed rupees 9000 crore and an export of one half size of this figure. India is on the peak of the Foreign Direct Investment wave. FDI flows into India trebled from $19 billion in 2006-07 and $25 billion in 2007-08. By AT Kearneys FDI Confidence Index 2006, India is the second most attractive FDI destination after China, pushing the US to the third position. It is commonly believed that soon India will catch up with China. India is up-and-coming a significant manufacturer, especially of electrical and electronic equipment, automobiles and auto-parts . The country is expected to witness over Rs 30,000 crore of investment by 2010.Over the next one year, some 20 new cars will be seen on Indian roads. Maruti Udyog has set up the second car plant with a manufacturing capacity of 2.5 lakh units per annum for an investment of Rs 6,500 crore (Rs 3,200 crore for diesel engines and Rs 2,718 crore for the car plant itself). Hyundai and Tata Motors have announced plans for  investing a similar amount over the next 3 years. Hyundai will bring in more than Rs 3,800 crore to India, Tata Motors will be investing Rs 2,000 crore in its small car project. General Motors will be investing Rs 100 crore, Ford about Rs 350 crore and Toyota announced modest expansion plans even as Honda Siel has earmarked Rs 3,000 crore over the next decade for India a sizeable chunk of this should come by 2010 since the company is also looking to enter the lucrative small car segment. Commercial vehicle segment, Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors have each announced well over Rs 1,000 crore of investment. Mahindra Mahindras joint venture with International Trucks is expected to see an infusion of at least Rs 500 crore. Hero Honda is about to establish its fourth manufacturing plant. Bajaj Auto and TVS Motors are moving to the excise-free zones of Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal for putting up new capacity. The growth of the Indian middle class along with the growth of the economy over the past few years has attracted global auto majors to the Indian market. Moreover, India provides trained manpower at competitive costs making India a favoured global manufacturing hub. The attractiveness of the Indian markets on one hand and the stagnation of the auto sector in markets such as Europe, US and Japan on the other have resulted in shifting of new capacities and flow of capital to the Indian automobile industry. Global auto majors such as Japanese auto majors Suzuki, Honda and Korean car giant Hyundai are increasingly banking on their Indian operations to add weight to their businesses, even as numbers stay uncertain in developed markets due to economic recession and slowdown. Moreover, according to a study released by global consultancy firm Deloitte, at least one Indian company will be among the top six carmakers that would dominate the global auto industry by 2020. According to the study, the car industry would see a massive capacity building in low-cost locations like India as manufacturers shift base from developed regions. Production Although the sector was hit by economic slowdown, overall production (passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, two wheelers and three wheelers) increased from 10.85 million vehicles in 2007-08 to 11.17 million vehicles in 2008-09. Passenger vehicles increased marginally from 1.77 million to 1.83 million while two-wheelers increased from 8.02 million to 8.41 million.  In recent times, India has emerged as one of the favourite investment destinations for automotive manufacturers. * German car major Audi will start assembling its sports utility vehicle Audi Q5 from mid-2010. The company plans to assemble more cars locally at its Aurangabad plant instead of importing completely built units (CBUs). * Ford India commenced commercial production of its compact car Figo, and diesel and petrol engines at a new factory in Chennai. The Figo will be built exclusively in India and exported to Asian countries and South Africa. * Japanese major Nissan has decided to shift the entire production of its small car, Micra, from the UK to India. After production of the Micra begins here, Nissan plans to manufacture four more models in India, involving a total investment of over US$ 412.2 million. * Suzuki Motorcycle India (SMIPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japanese auto major Suzuki Motor Corporation, plans to double production capacity of its two-wheelers to 300,000 units by the end of the current fiscal year. The company will invest US$ 26.77 million. * Volkswagen has set a target to localise production in India to about 80 per cent in 2-3 years from the current levels of almost 50 per cent as it seeks to offer cars at more competitive prices. Domestic Market According to figures released by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), domestic passenger car sales have increased 32.28 per cent to reach 145,905 units in January 2010 from 110,300 units in the same month last year. Across all categories, total sale of vehicles increased 44.94 per cent to 1,114,157 units in January 2010, against 768,698 units in the January 2009. Road Ahead The Indian auto industry is likely to see a growth of 10-12 per cent in sales in 2010, according to a report by the global rating firm, Fitch. According  to its report, Indian Auto Sector Outlook, competition in the countrys auto sector is likely to increase due to increasing penetration of global original equipment manufacturers (OEM). Conclusion The average person cant come along and start manufacturing automobiles. The emergence of foreign competitors with the capital, required technologies and management skills began to undermine the market share of many automobile companies.Rather than looking at the threat of someone buying a different car, there is also need to also look at the likelihood of people taking the bus, train or airplane to their destination. The auto industry is considered to be an oligopoly. Many suppliers rely on one or two automakers to buy a majority of their products. If an automaker decided to switch suppliers, it could be devastating to the previous suppliers business. The bargaining power of automakers are unchallenged. Consumers are very price sensitive, they dont have much buying power as they never purchase huge volumes of cars Indian automobile industry has achieved splendid achievement in the recent years. India is on the peak of the Foreign Direct Investment. The attractiveness of the Indian markets on one hand and the stagnation of the auto sector in markets such as Europe, US and Japan on the other have resulted in shifting of new capacities and flow of capital to the Indian automobile industry. India is a significant manufacturer of automobiles and auto-parts. Global auto majors such as Japanese auto majors Suzuki, Honda and Korean car giant Hyundai are increasingly banking on their Indian operations to add weight to their businesses .The car industry would see a massive capacity building in low-cost locations like India as manufacturers shift base from developed regions. Although the sector was hit by economic slowdown but it doesnt effect the overall production of automobiles. In recent times, India has emerged as one of the favourite investment destinations for automotive manufacturers. The Indian auto industry is likely to see a growth of 10-12 per cent in sales in 2010.Competition in the countrys auto sector is likely to increase due to increasing penetration of global original equipment manufacturers References http://www.workosaur.com/auto-industry-overview/ http://www.ibef.org/industry/automobiles.aspx http://www.investopedia.com/features/industryhandbook/porter.asp http://ayushveda.com/blogs/business/indian-automobile-industry-and-michael-porters-five-forces-model-of-industry-forces/ http://www.indiastudychannel.com/projects/2663-A-STUDY-OF-CONSUMER-SATISFACTION-IN-AUTOMOBILE-INDUSTORY-IN-URBAN-CITY.aspx http://www.scribd.com/doc/18220669/Michael-Porters-Five-Forces-Analysis-TATA-Motors http://www.automobileindia.com/automobile-industry/ http://www.wikinvest.com/industry/Auto_Makers Read more: http://www.businessteacher.org.uk/free-business-essays/porters-five-forces-model.php#ixzz2Hs7eQILu

Government Policies to Reduce Domestic Violence

Government Policies to Reduce Domestic Violence Domestic Violence The most serious threat to personal safety occur not on the city street but in the home. Discuss. The explorative of the discussion within this essay will to be examine what constitutes the term ‘domestic violence’, and what implementations as a result of government policies have been introduced to address and therefore eradicate the problem of domestic violence within society. Crimes committed within a private space, such as domestic violence within the family home are considered and regarded to be less problematic than crimes committed within the public sphere, and are often disregarded and dismissed among public concern and political agendas when addressing and combating the ‘problem of crime’ within society today. Domestic violence was firstly given recognition and was identified as a social problem in the late 19th century, and was associated with child cruelty, and marital violence. However it was not until the mid twentieth century during a time span of five decades that different form of domestic violence were highlighted and made visible within society. Saranga (2001) cited in McLaughlin et al (2006) p’163 This was demonstrated with cases of child neglect, and the physical abuse of children during the 1960’s following the work of Henry Kempe in 1962, which brought attention to the ‘battered child syndrome’. Creighton (2002) The amplification of domestic violence incidents, and their effects, exposed by the feminist movement in the 1970s which followed with the establishing of Women’s Aid in 1974, who campaigned for the introduction of new legislative acts and policies to support victims of domestic violence. Dobash Dobash (1992) p’33. The sexual abuse of children in the 1980s, such as the ‘Cleveland child sex abuse scandal’ where children were removed from their parent’s care, for fear of them being sexually abused, although. Pragnell, (nd). The recognition of elder abuse during the 1990s, following the introduction of a national organisation for Action on Elder Abuse in 1993, to combat the mistreatment of older people. Richardson, (1998). Furthermore In addition, the recognition of male victims of domestic violence, abuse and rape with the introduction of and the increase of parental abuse within the home committed by children of the family The government defines ‘domestic violence’ as, â€Å"Any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between adults who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. This includes issues of concern to black and minority ethnic (BME) communities such as so called ‘honour based violence’ female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage†. The reference and the use of the term ‘adult’ is defined as â€Å"any person aged 18 or over. Family members are defined as mother father, son, daughter, brother, sister, and grandparents, whether directly related, in laws or step family†. (Domestic Violence Mini site:Home). Furthermore, the definition of ‘domestic violence’ applied by the Crown Prosecution Service (2001), states that the use of ‘Domestic violence’ is â€Å"a general term to describe a range of behaviours often used by one person to control and dominate another whom they have, or have had, a close or family relationship and the abuser operates from a position of perceived power†. In addition stating that it â€Å"includes forms of violent and controlling behaviour such as physical assaults, sexual abuse, rape, threats and intimidation, harassment, humiliating and controlling behaviour, withholding of finances, economic manipulation, depravation, isolation, belting and constant unreasonable criticism†. (Broken Rainbow) Therefore from these definitions of ‘domestic violence’, attributes of the term engage both the female and male sexes, and is regardless of their gender orientation , ethnicity , religious beliefs, social status, age and include children of the family unit, as being either victims or perpetrators of domestic violence. From this it has been suggested that the family is therefore a â€Å"predominant setting for every form of physical violence: from slaps to torture and murder.†, and that â€Å"some form of physical violence in the life cycle of family members is so likely that it can be said to be almost universal†. Hotaling and Straus (1980) cited in McLaughlin et al. (2006) p’163. According to the statistics released by the Home Office and published in Crime in England and Wales 2006/2007, one incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute, however prior to this reporting, research suggests that up to thirty five assaults upon the victim will have been (excruciated) (executed) by a partner or former partner. Also domestic violence accounts for 16% of all violent crime, effecting one in every four females, and one in every six males during their lifespan. With 77%, of the victims being female, and upon average, ‘domestic violence’ claiming the life of two female victims, by a current or former male partner every week. (Domestic violence|Home Office) Consequently Dobash Dobash, (1992) stated that â€Å"The four main sources of conflict leading to violent attacks are men’s possessiveness and jealousy, men’s expectations concerning women’s domestic work, men’s sense of the right to punish ‘their’ women for perceived wrongdoing, and the importance to men of maintaining or exercising their position of authority†.p’4. Statistics from The British Crime Survey published for the period between the years, 2006 to 2007, included 28% of the sample reporting to have experienced domestic violence, between the ages of sixteen and fifty nine years, and non-sexual abuse being reported to be the most common type of abuse. Furthermore, 62% of the female sample reported to experience more than one incident of domestic violence, in comparison to 54% of the males during the past twelve months. Also the study revealed that females were more prevalent to males in experiencing all types of domestic violence, over a prolonged period of time, in comparison with 50% of males reporting to being victims for less than a period of one month. Females were also more likely to sustain injury, or suffer emotional effects as a result of the incident and seek medical assistance, as opposed to the males which had participated within the survey. (British Crime Survey statistics 2006/2007) Furthermore according to the British Crime Survey, of the 74% of ‘domestic violence’ incidents reported in 2006/2007 it emerged that although the victim had discussed the matter with another, only 13% had reported the incident to the police, with only 11% reporting incidents of sexual assault, and police officers discovering the remaining 2% another way, 45% of the incidents against females were perpetrated within her own, and 23% perpetrated in the home of her assailant. Also, 66% of the victims who had experienced partner abuse did not recognise the incident as ‘domestic violence’, although more females recognised abuse as a crime, whereas males, regarded it as â€Å"just something that happens†. (British Crime Survey statistics 2006/2007) Evidentially, Hoare and Jannson stated the comparison between the figures and extent of domestic violence during the period 2004 to 2007, as reported by the victims surveyed for The British Crime Survey, indicate that incidents of ‘domestic violence’ were consistent in occurrence during the three year period.( ) However, according to the estimation of Pease and Farrell, â€Å"domestic violence statistics are 140% higher than these stated in the British Crime Survey which records a maximum of crimes per person†. cited in Barron (2007). Therefore, accounting for a distortion of the actual amounts of incidents perpetrated upon the victims. Furthermore according to Walby et al (2001) when disclosing experiences of domestic abuse the victims are reluctant to do so in a face to face situation, which could account for the lack of reporting incidents of intimate personal violence to the police, which could account for why the figures are under reported . Also Walby (2004), suggests that one of the factors that contribute to the underestimation of domestic violence incidents is due to the British Crime Survey recording only a maximum of five incidents per person in a twelve month period within the figures .(ref) From these figures there is a clear indication that crimes committed within the ‘private space’, do not only exist, but are extensive, therefore accounting for a substantial amount of ‘hidden crime’ which are not represented within the statistics for domestic violence incidents which occur. Furthermore, when an act is committed and identified as criminal, such as an adult assaulting another within the public sphere, a location which is accessible to everyone at all times, therefore possibly witnessed by a insignificant other, to that of the victim of the crime, sanctions are more likely to be imposed through the criminal justice system. However that same act perpetrated by one adult against another, within a private space, where the accessibility to that space is determined by one person, or a group of people, such as the family unit, it is often regarded as a domestic problem. Saranga (2001) cited in McLaughlin et al (2006) p’163. Which accounts as one of the key and problematic features of dealing with domestic violence, due to the lack of reporting the incident by the victim, or victims when they do occur, which therefore prohibits outside intervention by the state through the criminal justice system. Although Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (1998), safeguards a general right to respect for privacy for an individual, and their family, with interventions by the state only being permissible and justified in accordance with the law, which includes the prevention of crime, and the protection of health, and the rights of freedom of others (YourRights.org.uk).Which therefore includes acts of domestic violence. Although Gordon (1998) â€Å"challenged the idea that state intervention was an intrusion into private matters by asking ‘whose privacy ‘ and ‘whose liberties’ were being violated†. cited in McLaughlin al (2006) p’163 Furthermore according to Dobash et al the debate upon state intervention within incidents of domestic violence is divided with â€Å"some maintaining that interventions more likely to be intrusive, repressive and controlling†, while others pronounce that â€Å"it can be enabling, empowering and prote ctive†. Dobash and Dobash (1992) p’4 In order to address and combat domestic violence, which appears to be dependant upon the reporting of the crimes initially by the victim, who may be apprehensive of reporting the crime for fear of reprisals in doing so, The Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Act 2004, was introduced to support, protect and safeguard the rights of victims and witnesses, of intimate personal violence, therefore putting the victims at the forefront of the criminal justice system. Furthermore the introduction of The Domestic Violence Act (2007), introduced the governing of new powers for the police to arrest the perpetrators of domestic violence attacks, and introduced the breech of non- molestation orders committed by perpetrators to become a criminal offence, therefore punishable by the state, as opposed to the victim, and making common assault an arrest able offence, with sanctions imposed, therefore strengthening the implications of such actions committed by perpetrators, which were previously dealt with under civil laws.(Domestic Violence Home Office) Consequently, as a result of the introduction of The Domestic Violence Act (2007), and according to the estimation of circuit judge, John Platt, that the figures of â€Å"mostly women†, who were applying to secure non-molestation orders has decreased by between the â€Å"figures of 25%, and 30%, since the implementation of the act in July 2007†, he also stated that â€Å"every judge I have spoken to thinks there has been a drop† In 2006, 20.000 applications were requested for non- molestation orders. Gibb et al (2008). Therefore, allowing for the figure of 25% of a reduction within applications made, would account for 5.000 women, not seeking protection from their perpetrators through the courts for them, and their children. Furthermore Judge Platt stated that â€Å"Obviously this is a very worrying figure. Either offenders have change their behaviour which seems extremely unlikely, or the victims do not want to criminalise the perpetrators† which could be due to the fact that they are perceived to be the provider of the family, or the father of the children within the family unit, and the woman refusing to be held accountable for penalising their husband or partners actions, through the criminal justice system, and resulting in the perpetrator obtaining a criminal record, to which Judge Platt concluded â€Å"It’s human nature†. cited in Gibb et al (2008) Also other implementations introduced to safeguard children of the family unit, include that of the National Domestic Delivery Plan which has progressed to include children who are effected by domestic violence into the Common Assessment Framework, therefore incorporating them within Local Children’s Boards, and furthermore safeguarding that Multi-agency Public Protection Arrangements, and Multi Risk Assessment Conferences are aware of their involvement, and their needs, in order for them to work and comply within child protection arrangements in relation to the child, or children of the family. (National Domestic Violence Delivery Plan 2007) Causal theories of domestic violence include that of the ‘intergenerational theory’, and often referred to as ‘the cycle of abuse’ which is derived from the social learning theory, and based upon the premise that ‘violence begets violence’, which suggests that young males who had witnessed, or experienced domestic abuse, were more likely to become the perpetrators of such abuse within adulthood, and that young females who had also witnessed, or experienced domestic abuse, were prone to remain within abusive relationships as adults. According to Rosenbaum et al (1991) 70% of abusive husbands were from a violent background. Although in contrast Stark and Filtcraft (1998) stated that only 30% of males which had experienced violence within their childhood became abusive towards their female partner within adulthood. (Tackling Domestic Violence 2005) However according to Dobash Dobash (1979) â€Å"Children may learn to accept, admire, emulate or expect such behavior (domestic violence), but they may also be repulsed by it and reject it’s use. It would be naà ¯ve to assume that a child is such a simple creature that he or she learns only one thing from what he or she observes and that is to emulate the observed behavior in a robot fashion.† cited in Tackling Domestic Violence (2005) Bibliography Barron J ( ) Published on the Internet Accessed Broken Rainbow. Published on the Internet, http//www.broken- rainbow.org.uk/content/definition.htm. Accessed 5th May 2008 Creighton S J (20O1) Published on the Internet http://www.nspcc.org.uk/Inform/research/Breifings/physical abuse_wda48220.html. Definition and statistics. Published on the Internet. http://www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk/dv/dv03a.htm Accessed 5th May 2008 Dobash R E and Dobash R P (1992)Women Violence and Social Change Routledge London and New York Domestic Violence Home Office, Published on the Internet http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/reducing-crime/domestic-violence/.Accessed 5thMay 2008 Domestic Violence Mini-site:Home, Published on the Internet http://www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk/dv/dv01.htm. Accessed 15thMay 2008 Gibb F, Ford R (2008)Women at risk failed by domestic violence law THE TIMES 14 April JOC Published on the Internet Accessed May 2008 Mc Laughlin E and Muncie J (2006)The SAGE Dictionary of Criminology SAGE Publications Ltd London National Domestic Violence Delivery Plan (2007) Published on the Internet Accessed May 2008 Pragnell Published on the Internet Accessed May 2008 Richardson Published on the Internet Accessed May2008 Tackling Domestic Violence (2005) Published on the Internet Accessed Women’s aid, British Crime Survey statistics-2006-7Women’s Aid Published on the Internet.http://www.womensaid.org.uk/domestic-violence-articles.asp?itemid=1445itemTitle Accessed 7thMay2008 YourRights.org.uk. Published on the Internet http://www.yourrights.org.uk/your-rights/chapters/privacy/article-8/article-8-the Accessed 1st May 2008

The Ultimate Zen :: essays research papers

The one problem with something being lost is the feeling one has for the object once it is gone. That felling of need and longing just creates pain. One could get rid of pain and loss if one could detach one’s self from these tokens. All emotional pain and suffering could be obliterated if one could think of all things, even people, as just things that come and go. This is not an excuse not to care about anybody. It is just a way not to wreck one’s life after something important has left. Sometimes, when a family member or spouse dies, people mourn for an unhealthy amount of time. Morning the death of a loved one is a healthy thing to do, but to let it consume the rest of the living’s life is completely unhealthy. These same feelings could be put towards sex as well. By detaching one’s self from the emotional part of it, there would be no regret, no guilt, no worrying, no sense of betrayal. It could be considered something fun to do with a friend, or merel y something to pass the time.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One problem with sex is the emotional attachment that one gets to the other person after the act. This attachment is stronger in women than in men, but most men still feel it, even though it might not be as strong as the woman’s feelings. This sense of attachment will turn into abandonment if one partner does not speak to or see the other again. By detaching emotion from the entire act, this feeling of abandonment will never be felt. Sex does not always have to be between a couple either. It could just be between friends. For example: Instead of going to a movie together, two people could stay in and fornicate. This is where the whole friends-with-benefits idea comes from. They do not need to be with each other all the time and do not mind when they see other people, so just use sex as a recreational sport. It could take the place of baseball as the American Pastime.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Another emotion that could stem from sex is guilt. If a man was to sleep with a married woman, or visa versa, both would normally feel some sort of guilt. By detaching themselves from the entire act, they would feel nothing. One would be helping the other one by fulfilling needs that were not being fulfilled by the married one’s spouse.

Bill Clinton: Rhetorical Settings, Strategies, and Paradoxical Popular

Bill Clinton: Rhetorical Settings, Strategies, and Paradoxical Popularity Everyone knows what he did with Monica Lewinsky. They watched him shake his finger and lie to their face on national television. They heard his promise to be forthcoming with the truth, and head about how he patiently hair-split his way through four hours of grand jury testimony. Why is he still here? The answer lies in a combination of Clinton’s rhetorical strategy and extrinsic circumstances. Bill Clinton’s rhetoric is two-fold. His problem is unique in that he must communicate in two different forums–in a public context to the American people and in a legal context to the House and Senate. This presents some unique problems. Although the two arenas are different, they are mixed–what the President says publicly can be held against him legally, and what he says in court is presented to the public through the media. Clinton’s challenge is to develop rhetoric that is optimum for the arena it is delivered in, but compatible with the other arena’s rhetoric as well. In both situations, Clinton is always in control of what he is saying; neither reporters nor jurors can put him on the run, or catch him in a misunderstanding he cannot adequately explain, refute, or deny. Although the tone of his public and legal rhetoric sometimes conflict, they are effective nonetheless. We will begin by examining his public rhetoric. The purpose of Clinton’s public rhetoric is to win the support of the American people, relative to the Republicans and the Independent Counsel. The support of the people will ensure the eventual cooperation of the House and Senate–who are directly responsible to the public for their jobs. Because Clinton is speaking to a broad and... ...tp://www.cnn.com/ALLPOLITICS/resources/1998/clinton.jones/ C-SPAN Website http://www.c-span.org/guide/executive/investigation/articles.htm C-SPAN: President Clinton’s Testimony: Text http://www.c-span.org/guide/executive/investigation/video_text/ C-SPAN: Presidential Testimony http://www.c-span.org/guide/executive/investigation/0998.asp#gj1 C-SPAN: 81 Questions to the President http://www.c-span.org/guide/executive/investigation/clinton112798.htm C-SPAN: White House Trial Memorandum to the Senate http://www.c-span.org/guide/executive/investigation/whtrialmemorandum.htm Gallup Poll Website http://www.gallup.com/poll/indicators/indmedia.asp http://www.gallup.com/poll/trends/ptopinion.asp http://www.gallup.com/poll/trends/ptrateecon.asp House of Representatives Directory http://clerkweb.house.gov/mbrcmtee/mbrcmtee.htm

Surprising Similarities and Striking Differences :: Free Essay Writer

Surprising Similarities and Striking Differences Daniel Defoe wrote Moll Flanders in 1722, almost one hundred years before Charlotte Bronte finished Jane Eyre. Despite the difference in the times of writing, they bore apparent similarities. Nevertheless the writers adopted different techniques to portrait two heroines. The two novels were both growth novels, to a certain extent, which depicted the changes of the heroines as they grew up. In order to illustrate the changes, the authors employed similar plots and writing skills. The two novels both started from foster families and ended with happy marriages. Perhaps the authors wanted to cast some light on the fact that a broken family had a far-reaching effect on a child’s life. Jane Eyre became rebellious and self-isolated in her struggles at Gateshead while Moll Flanders’ childhood foreshadowed her helplessness and powerlessness throughout her life. In fact the two foster homes differed greatly. Gateshead was a hostile place, which cultivated a strong and independent-minded Jane, so that she could overcome various difficulties in her life on her own. Moll Flanders was not so lucky. Her foster mother was impoverished but extremely kind. Therefore after she died, innocent Moll was thrown into an unfriendly world suddenly. Soon she was seduced, which marked the beginning of her miserable life. Both authors carried a strong sense of family. Jane took after her mother to be a stubborn lover. At despair she appealed for her mother ‘s help wh en she was praying for Mr. Rochester. In the end it’s her family that saved her from the edge of death and treated her with enthusiastic hospitality, quite in contrast with the hostile family of Gateshead. Family had a special meaning for her. Interesting enough it’s her family again who made her rich and in some way made it possible for the reunion of the couple. As to Moll Flanders, she went through what her mother did in almost the same way: from a decent woman to a shameless whore then to a thief, at last experiencing a narrow escape from the gallows. Like Jane she met her family at last quite unexpectedly in an exotic place. Despite all the suffering they had born, the endings of the two novels were happy. They could marry their beloved ones and lead tranquil and rich lives. It seemed that a happy marriage and a rich life were the best endings an author could come up with for a woman at that time.

Case Study Cameron Auto Parts Essay

1. Cameron was right to have licensed to McTaggart. Expansion strategies, as discussed in class, have different barriers and costs. For example, for Cameron to have entered a joint venture with the company would have cost both sides a lot of money and time. For Cameron to have expanded into the UK – what Andy had argued – would have been the most expensive and time consuming of the four options. The company definitely has money, however the extra cash needed to finance such large operations isn’t available. Finally, for Cameron to have simply exported into the UK economy could have been easy however, it is exactly what they are doing now. This leaves them limited to the amount that the importers are able to pay in terms of duty and freight, currency exchange, as Sandy explains, as well as the issue of never knowing â€Å"how long the goods will take†(International Management, pg 254) to arrive. Also, with the developing need, having more orders would force Cameron to build a new manufacturing facility to accommodate for the higher production. This would exuberate their need for that second plant. All of this leaves licensing to be the most viable option as it requires the least amount of capital, both financial and human. Cameron Auto Parts are paid royalty fees as well as the costs of setting up the manufacturing and training without having to spend much money to get the UK plant running. 2. I would say that McTaggart is a good choice for the company to become the licensee of the UK for Cameron. According to Exhibit 3, even though they had sales of –  £9 million from 1991, it states that this is because their sales took a plummet against â€Å"a U.S product of superior quality† (International Management, pg 255) It also states that they have the capacity to increase production substantially. This means that given the right product, they are already capable of producing according to demand. Further, because Sandy himself knows there is a huge (and growing) demand for the part, coupled with the current customers of Cameron, there is almost already a very large customer base and all it needs is a facility that is very seriously interested in becoming â€Å"exclusive agents for the UK market† (International Management, pg 256) in order to supply that demand accordingly. McTaggart also has an excellent credit record, and having been in operation for almost 150 years, it is clear that they are in the business for the long run and would not risk damaging situations and dishonored contracts. 3. The two had come to a compromise of 2% in royalty fees. They came up with the rate of using integrative negotiation techniques. They both knew that they wanted the situation to work, and neither of them came in with an unrealistic starting point or forceful attitude – distributive techniques. Alex began the negotiation at 3% while Sandy pushed a few times for 1.5%. Even though Sandy gave an offer of 2% on the first million â‚ ¬, he still kept close to his initial offer by saying that any profits after the first million would be at a 1.5% royalty rate. Pleasingly, they both agreed to meet in the middle, at 2%. Without knowing the legal royalty limit in the UK, the textbook (International Management, pg 99) does state that 3% is a stringent limit. This implies that governments consider this rate reasonable and not high enough to hurt the domestic company. That being said, 2% is the right rate. An important piece of information to take note of is the fact that even though their production skills were not as up-to-date as Cameron’s – an issue that would be rectified once the set-up of the facility is completed – McTaggart already has original cost saving ideas implemented in their current plant. This indicates an ingenuity that perhaps Cameron’s techniques could use. Because Alex specifically states that he would require a flow-back clause in their agreement, this is an added benefit to compromising that 1% since it is only a matter of time before McTaggart’s facility comes up with cost-saving techniques for the flexible couplings. This would more than make up for the compromise.

Cathedral

Blindness can manifest itself in many ways. Disputably the most damaging form of this condition may be the figurative blindness of one’s own situation and ignorance towards the feeling of others. In Raymond carver’s short story â€Å"cathedral,† the narrator’s emotional and psychological blindness is immediately apparent. The many issues faced by the narrator as well as the turn-around experienced at the culmination of the tale are the main idea for the theme of this story and these ideas aid the narrator in eventually collapse to character transformation by simply regarding the literal blind man in a positive way.The narrator’s statement at the very beginning of the story explains his own lack of knowledge concerning physical blindness. His lack of knowledge relating to the visitor’s disability is undeniable, he make it very clear that he is aware of this stating that he â€Å"wasn’t very enthusiastic about his visit. †(81) Bes ide he doesn’t know the blind guy and his being blind bothered him too. I believe that you can’t make judgment about a person or dislike just because he can’t see. The narrator was judgment him because of the relation that the blind had with his wife not just because he is enable to see.The introduction of the story explains the relationship between narrator’s wife and the blind man, detailing how it evolved to its present status. It is in this part that I as a reader I see an example of the figurative blindness from which the narrator suffers because of his knowledge of the relationship between the two which seem to stem from his own troubled relationship with his wife. Is here when his wife gave him an ultimatum to accept Robert, stating that if her husband loves her, he would â€Å"do this for me if you don’t love okay. (83) Throughout the story the narrator show his jealousies toward the relationship his wife and the blind man share. Insecurit y gives a way to a troubled relationship with his wife. The narrator revaluates his suspicious ideas regarding to the relationship with his wife and the blind men.Drug and alcohol usage throughout the entire story significantly adds to another blindness of which the subject is unaware. Once Robert arrives he is immediately introduced to a social drinking, especially when he is questioned for his choice of drink. He stated that him and his wife carry â€Å"a little of everything, it is one of our pastime. (85) This is a point that is described on the plot. The final enlightenment experienced by the narrator is a direct result of the mindset brought upon by his marijuana usage. In fact I believed that many of his described problems may be attributed to his drinking and drug use. Someone that is under the influence of a foreign substance does things and says things that they may never say on their five senses. The story climaxes after the wife falls asleep and the two men are finally allowed to converse with each other. It is at this time when the narrator finally gets to see the attitude and thoughts of the blind man.This lead to his own personal transformation when Robert ask whether or not the narrator is religious and his answer was â€Å" I guess I don’t believe in it . in anything†(91) this answer was unsure of his own knowledge because he wanted to impress the blind man that I say he just respond that to keep the conversation with Robert. This made me see that the narrator is in need of something which means more than just physical blindness. I think that Robert feels the necessity to help the narrator both mentally and emotionally bringing understanding to a man filled with bad ideas and opinion about others.Today society have a minute understanding of what it is to truly see that this initiative is more than physical viewing and is based more on emotional understanding for an instance. Figuratively seeing is what it is inside of other peop le and also is what they can feel and how they think. The final drawing of the cathedral truly helps me to understand the meaning of achieve through working together. The two men hold hands while drawing the cathedral which for me is the basis for the story being told. This changing experience helps me to understand between looking and seeing.This narrator would simple have continued on his close-minded lifestyle and never had learn about or accepting other people as they are. The last few sentences of this story made me realize that being blind is not an affliction that is limited solely to the body. I learn that a person can be blind to the feelings of others and the problem that can affect our everyday life. I believe that with tolerance to an individual can find both respect for themselves and awareness for people around us. I agree with the author of this story blindness is not an obstacle to continue being a normal person in life.

My Journey to Life Introduction

My Autobiography â€Å"When my Parents First Met† Sometime in 1974 when Christmas is approaching, accordingly my parents told me that they happened to meet at a certain canteen in Green Hills San Juan, Rizal and came to know each other while they were still studying in College. Late after one year they came to be engaged with each other. Knowing more each family background, and accepted by both. After my father had graduated his course in Manila, they decided with both parental onsent’s to get marry. They went home to Batanes to receive their matrimony of marriage at the Miraculous Medal of Virgin Mary at Itbud, Uyugan, Batanes. In their continuous companionship, in the hardship of living, they were blessed with three children, all girls. They were Cheryl, Richel, and Louelle. Even in their hardship of bringing up my sisters, still they never quit seeking better information which is getting into college. They survived with the effort.My father and mother both graduated the course of Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Accounting at Saint Dominic College, Basco, Batanes, sometime in 1990. For better qualification, they were both employed on level 2 ranked and file positions. My mother is still employed to the now Provincial Agriculturists Office as HRMO-II; and my father has just retired from the DPWH Batanes, their employment helps so much as the source to carry on in racing their first 3 children until they were in college. 6 years later blessed with another baby girl whom my father named Dandy. Dandy means according to him a child who hold up and down sweetly. After weeks, they brought their child to receive her baptism at Saint Dominic Paris Chapel. The child received her baptismal feminine name Dandelle which I am carrying on. I wrote this when I was still in Third Year High School for an Auto biography project. I only included the introduction part of it for my Autobiography is long and I don't want to tell much about me.

Assess Albert Speer’s contribution to the Nazi war effort Essay

Albert Speer’s contribution to the Nazi war effort started well before the declaration of war. His work for the Nazi regime aided Adolf Hitler in lifting the morale of the German people and consolidating Nazi power which was determined to engage in armed conflict. Speer was an accomplished architect and a highly efficient organiser. Hitler addressed Berlin’s university students at a Berlin rally in 1931, and Speer who was in the audience was so overwhelmed by what he heard that he joined the Nazi party and committed himself to his work. By 1932 he was working independently as an architect and used his party contacts to gain him more work. In 1933, Goebbels asked Speer to renovate the Propaganda Ministry. His next project proved to be even more successful planning and organising massive banners, swastikas and searchlights for the celebration of the Day of National Labour on the Tempelhof Field in Berlin on May 1st 1933. Goebbels was so impressed that he commissioned Speer to design the surround of the Nuremberg Rally later that year. Soon he was renovating Nazi Party offices and through his hard work and enthusiasm he mad a name for himself amongst the Nazi leadership. With the death of Hitler’s architect Troost, Hitler co-opted Speer as his personal architectural advisor. They became personal friends and Speer moved his family to be near Hitler’s mountain lodge. Speer was commissioned to rebuild the Nuremberg Party Rally grounds and due to his success in propaganda architecture Hitler appointed him in 1938 as General Building Inspector for the National Capital. Speer placed his department at the disposal of the Wehrmacht. Among his innovations were quick-reaction squads who construct roads and cleared away debris. Before long, these units would be used to clear bomb sites. As the war progressed, he failed to convince Hitler of the need to suspend peacetime construction projects, so he continued to work on the Berlin and Nuremburg plans. Speer also oversaw the construction of buildings for the Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe, and developed a considerable organization to deal with this work. Speer continued with his duties designing and constructing for the Reich up until 1942. In this period, his ideas and plans were used by Hitler to show the German population how great the nation could be. That year he was appointed Reich Minister for Armaments & Munitions as a reward for his faithful and unswerving loyalty to Nazi Party and Hitler. Hitler also believed that due to his close relationship to Speer and Speer’s loyalty, he could control arm’s production. Speer’s effect was immediate. In the first six months, he increased production of guns by 27%, tanks by 25% and ammunition by 97%. By the end of 1944, production had increased by 300%. This included a rise in the construction of aircraft from 9500 in 1941, to 34300 by 1944. All this was done with only a 30% increase in the workforce. Speer convinced Hitler that many workers should be diverted from producing consumer items for armaments production. He also used foreign workers and prisoners to work as forced labour. When German war production was at its peak in late September 1944, there were over seven million foreign labourers and 400,000 prisoners of war working as slave labourers. This was approximately 20% of the total workforce. Speer was so efficient with his duties, that many historians credit him with prolonging the war for a further twelve months. Speer was a great believer in the V1 & V2 Rocket programs to swing the tide of the war in Germany’s favour. He claimed that the inability of senior Nazi figures to fully comprehend rocket technology led to a delay in overcoming initial problems with the V2. He believed that the V2 would have been operational far sooner if the project had received greater backing. General Eisenhower claimed after the war that if the V Weapon program had been in place in earl 1944, the D-Day landing may have been impossible. In early 1944, Speer was admitted to a clinic as a result of health problems. During the period of his recovery, he had time to reflect and in doing so, realised his growing disenchantment with Hitler and the Nazi regime. In November 1944 in a private conversation with Joseph Goebbels he indicated his belief that a German victory was not possible. The war was going so poorly for Germany that even Speer’s talent and efficiency drives were unable to reverse the oncoming defeat. By the middle of the year, he had disobeyed Hitler’s orders to put a halt of producing aircraft and boost anti-aircraft production. He also refused to engage in Hitler’s ‘Scorched Earth’ policy which meant that all infrastructure, power supplies, records & documents and food be destroyed before it could fall into the hands of the advancing Allied forces. He did this because he had realised that such an action would devastate any possible chance of recovery for the German people after the war had been lost. It is evident that Albert Speer had an overwhelming effect on the Nazi war effort. His ability to organise and plan projects from architecture, which would lift the peoples morale, to the production of arms which enabled the German armed forces to continue the fight against the allies for so long. Without a person of his ability, the German war machine and the Nazi government would have fallen far earlier.