Thursday, October 31, 2019

Engineering Disasters Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Engineering Disasters - Essay Example Measures Undertaken to Prevent Future Oil spills ExxonMobil made several changes thereafter to prevent oil spills in future. They are: changed oil tanker routes; strengthening training programs for captains and pilots; alcohol and drug testing procedures for sensitive positions; periodic examination of facilities and transport vessels; improved technology for vessel navigation. The system was deployed in other parts of the world to see that incident of this kind does not happen again (The Valdez Oil Spill 2012). Ethical Considerations in Engineering Catalano (2011) argues that Engineering has been a profession that keeps ethical dimension at the forefront; however, in view of various oil spills that has happened in recent years across the globe, author doubts that ethical responsibilities have not paced with scientific advancements. Author categorically stress that the engineers in this world now must own ethical responsibilities not only to safeguard all of its inhabitants but also our Mother Earth so as to have a secured and safe future for all of us. False Nuclear Alarms False Nuclear Alarms can become a cause of nuclear holocaust and if it happens so then it will be termed as perhaps the biggest engineering disasters of all. Sennott (2001) argues that as per the US government, 1152 false alarms of varying seriousness occurred between 1977 and 1984. This was due to some abnormal information given by warning sensors. The false signaling happens due to various reasons. Satellites can detect the infrared energy that emits from anywhere on the earth's surface. During gulf war, Iraqi Scud missiles were also detected by this satellite system. The author emphasizes that false alarm is in itself not a cause of much concern because they are quite routine now; however, the major threat comes from a second false alarm before the first one has been resolved. Forden et al. (2000) argue that first of the false warning of nuclear attack was noticed on November 9, 1979 by the US system that massive Soviet nuclear strike is on its way. The US defense system was virtu ally making their mind to counter attack through their ballistic missiles. In fact, no attack was initiated by soviet Russia and mistake was discovered soon and global nuclear war was thus, averted. In another incident, on January 25, 1995 Russian radars detected a US Trident nuclear missile. Again, for some reason counter attack was not launched from

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Visages of Two Stories Essay Example for Free

Visages of Two Stories Essay Flannery O’Connor’s A Good Man is Hard to Find and Tobias Wolff’s Bullet in the Brain are two short stories each having unlikeable lead characters. Both stories revolved around the lives of the lead characters which were shown using humor and twists and turns. Flannery O’Connor, an American writer, was known for her Southern Gothic writing style. Her literary works are indicative of her beliefs of the Roman Catholic. Tobias Wolff, also an American writer, was known for his short stories and memoirs. A Good Man is Hard to Find is a story of a family going for a vacation. It began with the Grandmother explaining to her son Bailey about the murderous Misfit who was on the loose so she wouldn’t have to go to Florida for vacation and would instead have go to Tennessee. She was not able to persuade her son and the rest of the family. The next morning they drove off to Florida. The Grandmother portrayed the image of someone who was self-centered and unpleasant. She also seemed to be more concerned on how she would look like a Christian than act like one. In the end, the family was murdered by the Misfit and his two cohorts. The Bullet in the Brain, on the other hand, began in with a book critic named Anders who was on a bank one day. Similar to the Grandmother from O’Connor’s story, Anders was also one character who is unlikeable. He depicted someone who was ill-tempered and sardonic. While waiting in a long line of customers, two bank robbers entered the scene and threatened the people. Anders was someone who was not intimidated by anyone, even by bank robbers. And here is where the trouble for the protagonist began. Instead of doing the right thing, he ridiculed the robbers which resulted to his death. The Grandmother and Anders were two comical people who talked too much. Before the two died, they presented their own sentiments which the readers would have, undoubtedly, felt. There was an unexpected turn of events when the Grandmother was about to be killed. She suddenly claimed that the Misfit was a good man. This was contrary to what she had mentioned about the Misfit at the beginning of the story. She mentioned that would not take her children to a place with an unconfined criminal. She said her conscience would not be able to bear it if she did. The position she was in at the end of the story, seemed to have taken out the goodness and the true Christian from her. Because of the fear and the pressure she felt, she was able to see the goodness in the hands of something or someone so evil. What happened to Anders was another thing. Before he died, Wolff presented the things that the protagonist did not think of: the disappointments in his relationship with his family, the boredom he felt towards his work, etc. And by the time the readers were building inside then the sadness and the sympathy towards Anders, the author provided what Anders was thinking at that crucial moment. And boom, it was really unexpected because at that very moment before he died what he thought of was his sarcasm in his early years. And the seemingly sad ending of the story turned out to be odd and amusing. The evil in the two stories have had similar and contrasting effects to the lead characters. The Grandmother and Anders had their share of insight with regards to the incident. The Grandmother may only be saving herself from death or she could have really realized the Misfit had goodness in him and that her prejudices were untrue. Nevertheless, it was too late for her. In Anders case, what he remembered before he died was what he was truly about. The last scenario substantiated the fact about Anders’ attitude. In the stories, varying prejudices can be observed and this shows that each one of us is entitled to own opinions and sets of truths. References: OConnor, Flannery. A Good Man Is Hard to Find. 1955. Wolff, Tobias. Bullet in the Brain. 1995.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

An Analysis Of The Company Virgin Marketing Essay

An Analysis Of The Company Virgin Marketing Essay Virgin Atlantic, the UKs second largest long haul airline, operates a fleet of 38 aircraft to 30 destinations in Africa, Asia, Middle East, Indian Ocean, North America, the Caribbean and Australia. In a deal which was finalized in 2000, Branson sold 49% stake of Virgin Atlantic to Singapore Airlines for  £600.25 million to form a unique global partnership. Richard Branson is still the controlling authority as he retains 51% stake in the airline. This essay analyses the chief internal and external factors that contribute to the success of the organisation as well as provide a critical assessment on the effectiveness of the strategies employed. It further discusses a couple of strategic options that are available to the Virgin group for the next five years with reference to appropriate academic models and concepts.   (Source: http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/tridion/images/studentinformationkitmarch2009_tcm4-622791.pdf)   Internal Analysis Of Virgin Atlantic In order to understand the strategies, it is important to analyse the internal environment of the organisation. Internal analysis is done by means of the value chain of the Virgin Atlantic. Value Chain Analysis Porters (1990) Value chain framework is an interdependent model that helps to analyse specific activities through which an organisation can create value and gain competitive advantage. (Pathania-Jain, 2001). To conduct the value chain analysis, the company is split into primary activities (those that are related with production) and support activities (those that provide the background necessary for effectiveness and efficiency of the firm like human resources management) (Porter, 1985). These activates are discussed below: Primary activities 1. Inbound and Outbound logistics: In Inbound logistics, the key activities are those associated receiving the raw materials from suppliers and managing them within the firm. These activities includes Stock Control (storing and managing fuel, snacks, food and drinks.), passenger service system, facilities planning etc (Fig. 1.1). It provides ample of facilities to its customers, it gives choice of three entrees with main meal, free drinks, an amenity kit for outbound journey, complimentary newspaper of passengers choice. The facilities keeps on increasing if you move from economy to upper class. The upper-class passenger gets limo service to travel to airport where check in formalities are already completed before they check in hotel style lobby area and through a dedicated security area exclusively for virgin airline customers. The upper-class UK passengers gets a complimentary airport transfer in chauffeur driven Volvo or Virgin Limo Bike which makes there outbound logistics quiet impressing to customers. (Source: http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/tridion/images/studentinformationkitmarch2009_tcm4-622791.pdf; http://www.virginatlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/forstudents.jsp#operation) Operations: Virgin Atlantic is the second largest long haul airline in the UK and the third largest European carrier over the North Atlantic. It operates to many of the top destinations around the world including destinations in the Caribbean, US, India, Far east and Africa. It has won many awards almost in most categories that travel industry offers. 3. Marketing and Sales: Virgin Atlantic uses a wide range of marketing techniques. Advertising activity includes magazines, TV, taxi sides press, outdoor posters and direct mail. Also promotional schemes plays vital role during traditionally low seasons. To encourage loyalty, Virgin Atlantic offers flying club membership where in members gets free miles that can be exchanged for free flights and other rewards. In addition, Virgin Atlantic also advertises through travel agents and runs wide range of promotional schemes, offers trade incentive, organises trips and social/educational events. The website (www.virgin.com/atlantic) also plays vital role as it offers full electronic booking, give information on destination, informs mileage balance to members and different promotional schemes. (Source: http://www.virginatlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/forstudents.jsp#operation) 3.Service: Virgin Atlantic has won numerous awards for its service and claims to set up new standards of service by pioneering range of innovations. For example, with respect to comfort during journey, its upper-class suite has longest and most comfortable flat bed and seat in airline industry for which alone it won twelve awards. For travelling from airport, virgin Atlantic offers limousine service and Bike service to its customers. Support activities: Firm Infrastructure: It includes planning and control systems, such as corporate strategy, accounting and finance. (Lynch, 2003). Virgin Atlantic expends heavily on technological solutions and infrastructure. The Finance department analyse the expenses due and financial condition of the group and accordingly plans the expenses necessary for growth of organisation. 2. Human Resource Management: Virgin Atlantic recruit people by means of newspaper advertisements and through its website. Existing staff can also recommend and earn incentive through the same. Virgin Atlantic gives world-class training to its employees and develops their employees from time to time by organising educational events. Also they recruit and train people with sign language skill to facilitate to disable passengers 3.Technology Development: Virgin Atlantic not only considers technological developments as vital for growth but also spends a lot on it. It has award winning in-flight entertainment system, travel seats and beds designed to give extra comfort. Also it is continuously working on innovative aircraft design and technological solution to reduce carbon emission 4. Procurement: Virgin Atlantic has an efficient procurement department, which obtains quality goods and services at lowest price so that the passengers can avail these world-class facilities at competitive prices. The department takes benefit of large operations of and thus achieve economies of scale. The department also interacts with a number of organisations that provide handling services at airports, Including baggage handling, refuelling, maintenance, cleaner services and security. These services are offered by a number of companies and can help in reducing costs. (Source: http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/tridion/images/studentinformationkitmarch2009_tcm4-622791.pdf; http://www.virginatlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/forstudents.jsp#operation) External analysis of Virgin Atlantic To have a grasp of the existing market as well as consumer and stakeholder perception, an awareness of external factors is essential. This section will highlight the position that Virgin Atlantic holds with respect to competitors, social perception, etc. PESTEL Analysis An organisations business environment is invariably governed by external factors which can be broadly analysed as Political, Economical, Social and Technological factors. To gain an advantage in the present and future market the organisation needs to reduce inefficiency and retain cost effectiveness (Grant, 2005). As Virgin Atlantic operates within Europe, North America, Africa, Asia and Oceania, these factors differ to a certain degree and the manner in which competitors, political bodies and social groups react and respond to the brand has to be anticipated with some care. Political and Legal factors As Virgin Atlantic operates across the globe, it has to adapt its practices to suite national and international laws as well as domestic aviation rules and regulations. The manner in which competitors react to new market shares may also involve political influences. When the United Kingdom opened Heathrow Airport to Virgin, thereby abolishing the London Air Traffic Distribution Rules, angered the chairman of British Airways and lead to BAA donations to the Conservative Party being halted. Virgin also incurred the wrath of Lord King when two unused slots held by BAA at Tokyo Narita International Airport were awarded to the airlines (BAA, 2009). Economic factors It must be stated that the brief financial crisis of the early 1990s forced the then Conservative British government to open Heathrow to Virgin despite opposition from BAA. This shows how external economic conditions can sometimes be favourable to a rising organisation in grabbing a hitherto inaccessible monopolised market. One of the main economic factors that affect the airline industry in general is the fuel hike. Conrady (2009) notes that the low cost fuel prices provided to the UK airline industry has greatly assisted in it escaping the fate of many of its European counterparts. Social factors The social perception and acceptance of a brand is of vital importance to any organisation and Virgin Atlantic has managed to do that in a relatively short period. Virgin Atlantic has been vying for the position to instil in the British public the brand image of a national and international organisation. When British Airways announced in 1997 that it will remove the Union Flag from its tailfins in favour of more international images, Virgin was quick to introduce the Union flag prominently in its winglets and noses with the tagline Britains Flag Carrier thereby challenging BAs traditional role as UKs Flag Carrier. The training of its staff is also a major issue and is vital in gaining stakeholders and achieving stakeholder targets (Nadal, 2009). The service staff need to have proper training to meet the high standards of service which is expected of it by the consumers as a hallmark of the airline industry. Technological factors As an industry that heavily relies on technology, the technological factor is the most essential factor in improving efficiency in the longer term. Virgin has managed to introduce more than 700 next generation aeroplanes, which provides a marking contrast to most of its competitors. According to Briggs and Burke (2009) this also minimises maintenance and training costs in the long run. Virgins initiative to focus on providing online service will also have a marked benefit as more and more consumers are being introduced into the World Wide Web on a daily basis. Consumers are thereby allowed to get up-to-date information regarding flight schedules and compare airline prices. Environmental factors Environmental concerns have also been a frequent issue as the airline industry is notorious as a major polluter. Many campaigns have tried to befriend or at least calm the environmental lobbies but more effort must be put into projecting the image of an organisation that is doing its bit for the environment. Virgin has focused on informing consumers about the CO2 pollution before each flight. The duty free bags are now composed of a significant proportion of recyclable material in compliance with the Ministry of Agriculture (Wheeler and Elkington, 2001). Critical assessment of the virgin Atlantics strategies The above-defined analysis conforms the strategy of Virgin Atlantic as being excellent service provider, it makes its path by providing distinct service. The corporate strategy of the organisation is to provide world-class service at a competitive price. The companys strategy is well supported by statement of Porter (1996), which says that executing the same activities in a different way than that of traditional competitors helps in achieving better position in sustainable manner. The company enters oligopoly market where customer usually receives poor deal and there is a scope of acquiring market by giving better services. To raise awareness of their products and services and new routes, Virgin Atlantic advertises through TV, press, magazines etc. Another strategy that organisation use is to make customers loyal by making them member of there flying club . The flying club offers numerous world-class facilities which will not only help in satisfying the customer but also gaining customer loyalty. The more customers travel through them, the more miles they get which can be exchanged with free flight and other rewards. They also get special support service and clubhouse access. Also during traditional low seasons, tactical promotions and price advertising are done to a large extent to maximize the aircraft capacity. In addition to all these, Virgin Atlantic also market through travel agents by offering them familiarisation trips, trade incentives. (Source: https://www.virgin-atlantic.com/en/gb/frequentflyer/index.jsp; http://www.virginatlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/forstudents.jsp) Effectiveness of strategies chosen SWOT Analysis According to Johnson (2005) SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) is a useful tool to examine financial accounts and developing healthy work environment of a company. It is a major step towards any strategic planning in a business. It is considered to be very important source of information for judging and understanding any sort of situations in the organisation. Given below is the SWOT analysis for Virgin Atlantic. Strengths Virgin Atlantic is headquartered in country where competition is enhanced and tolerated due to deregulation The virgin Atlantic has the head office in the country where the contest is heightened and tolerated due to the deregulation, which means the business is managed without the aid of following government restriction. The important feature of the Virgin Atlantic is the collaboration with Singapore airlines that made them one of the best airlines in the world. This has proven to be advantageous for virgin in many ways like huge market access, restructuring, converging technology to develop new one, gaining knowledge and extending supply etc. The strength of the Virgin group perhaps, is its importance to best customer service and innovation combined with brand name gives a big advantage to Virgin Atlantic. Virgin believes in creativity, adding its importance to customer service and innovation with the brand name virgin proves out to be the biggest strength of Virgin Atlantic. Its has introduced many firsts in the business like first to launch entertainment systems, onboard bars which increased social activities in-flight, providing complimentary limousines services, beauty treatments in-flight. It further introduced business economy cabin. It also has a website that dedicated to what a customer can expect from the airline and all other conclusive details of interest. Virgin has a powerful e-business structure that makes communications simpler and easier with the customers. They continually measure the performance delivered by each crewmember on flights. An additional feather to their cap is the exceptional service tin providing assistance to disabled/visually-impaired passengers. It not only helped in earning good reputation but also winning EASE award consecutive four years. (Source:http://www.virgin-Atlantic.com/en/gb/whatsonboard/index.jsp;http://www.virgin-atlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/history.jsp) Weaknesses The major drawback Virgin Atlantic faces is limited market reach as unlike other major international airlines. It operates in limited countries only like UK, Caribbean, South Africa, India, Australia, and US The companies reach in code sharing is limited hence it is not able to enjoy the benefits of code sharing which the members of leading Global alliance are able to do such as lack of transferable priority status, lack of seamless travel, lack of enhanced frequent-flier program benefits, limited extended lounge access and lack of greater network access. This is because Virgin Atlantic is not part of any leading global alliances. (Source: http://www.virginatlantic.com/en/gb/allaboutus/ourstory/forstudents.jsp)   Opportunities Virgin Atlantic is one of the few airline companies operating successfully in African countries, gradual liberalisation in UK/south African market leading to 53% rise in flights and 62% increase in passengers. The business has increased incredibly. There are few more cities, which can be considered for hospitality service based on the smooth record of the airline. Some of the very well known and large airlines have experienced bankruptcy in recent times providing them a great opportunity. Also the European Union is on their side providing to a be great support. Going forward, Virgin still have a great scope to grow in African market as only the British and African airways in dominating the continent and virgin comes at third position. It should focus on increasing the market share in Africa. Another opportunity available with Virgin Atlantic is attracting customers by aggressively promoting the clubhouse facilities and introduction of its latest Heathrow clubhouse. The number of tourist coming to UK is increasing day by day which is an opportunities available to them but in competitive environment, its quiet tough but strategic and aggressive marketing can make it possible.      Threats The current situation all over the world has lead to increase in competition so there is high possibility of threat due to competitiveness in the market which in turn creates pressure to maintain continuous profit. This would in turn lead to forceful alliances, mergers and acquisitions which might not be in the interest of the company. Other issue of concern is accommodation of passengers on the aircraft. Other threat may be the legislations i.e. changing policies and rules by government in the country where Virgin Atlantic operates. This may slowdown the operations and business of the company. Another major threat is emergence of new airlines, which can increase competition. Also if new airlines or existing competitors adopt Virgin Atlantics concept and structure, it will be a major threat to the company Strategic options for Virgin media: Ansoff Matrix: The Ansoff matrix (Ansoff, 1957) invented by Igor Ansoff who is also known as father of Strategic Management and was first published in Harvard business review in 1957. It presents the product and market choices available to an organization. In this markets may be defined as customers and products as items sold to customers (Lynch, 2003). Main aspects of Ansoff Analysis The Ansoff matrix provides the basis for an organizations objective setting process and sets the foundation of directional policy for its future (Bennett, 1994). The four strategies entailed in the matrix are elaborated below. Ansoff Product-Market Growth Matrix: (Ansoff, 1957) Market Penetration: It occurs when an organisation accesses a market with its recent services products. The market penetration strategy begins with the existing customers of the organization. This strategy is often use by companies in order to increase sales without wandering from the original strategy of product-market. (Ansoff, 1957). Product Development: Firm develops new products catering to the same market. This strategy refers to the significant new development of products not just minor changes to the existing products (Lynch, 2003). Market development In this particular strategy, a company moves beyond its existing customer base in search of new customers for its existing products and services. This strategy involves searching of new segment of a market, searching of new area to attract new customers, different/new use of products and services. (Lynch, 2003). Another good strategy that comes under market development is selling existing products in new international markets. (for example British firms can consider of selling there products in complete European markets). Diversification Levitt (1983) rightly whispered that world these days is becoming common market and people no matter where they live are demanding similar product and lifestyle. There has been a massive raise in international trade because of globalisation and liberalization. Diversification strategy essentially involves movement of current products and services in new markets (Lynch, 2003; Macmillan et al, 2000). All four strategic options defined above in the Ansoffs model bears risk element with them. Although Market penetration is often considered as a low risk strategy but diversification is considered as a high-risk growth strategy as it involves huge investment that increases due to simultaneously movement into new products and new markets. When applied to Virgin Atlantic, this model results in to two vital strategic options available. Product development strategy and the Market development strategy, to become the most successful organization Virgin Atlantic should follow both of them. The product development strategy suggested through Ansoffs matrix can be a very good strategy for Virgin Atlantic because of the type of customer base, the company possess. The company has good customer base of upper class families and corporate tycoons. If the company introduce new products or sub products, they can market it to these existing customers. The company should focus on strengthening the relationship with existing clients often known as Relationship marketing. One of the ways to achieve it is being in contact with them, giving them special offers, and at times offering them concession. If they are given special facilities and excellent services then it will develop brand loyalty in them. Another option available with Virgin Atlantic is market development strategy which involves search of additional geographical regions and additional market segment. If we compare the flights/services offered by Virgin Atlantic with British airlines, there is a large gap. Although Virgin Atlantic is UKs second largest airline but it operates flights to only 26 major destinations whereas against BA has flights to more than 150 odd destinations. Virgin Atlantic should increase the number of destinations, which can be done after carefully analysing the facts and figures about the population, operations, flights of competitors etc. Also Virgin Atlantic group should focus on developing country (Asia Pacific Region) as the growth prospects ate higher than developed countries. China and India are two developing countries with highest population and expected compounded growth rate in this region in 2007-2012 will be 5.2%. The manufacturing cost is comparatively low in these countries making them attractive destination for business. Also it will be a sound decision to outsource operational work to these countries. Virgin Atlantic is famous for luxurious flights as it offers world-class facilities to their passengers but in this competitive environment they are not offering anything price conscious economy class passengers. They should introduce no frills flight with the objective of earning profits on economy of scales. With this strategy they will not only diversify their risk but can potentially capture a new segment using their brand name and service. Conclusion: To conclude, after analysing internal and external factors of the Virgin Atlantic, it has been observed that Virgin group has grown massively and became world-class brand following the path of virgin group but it is still in path as there is a massive scope of growth which can be realised by combination of two strategies. They are product development and market development and market development. If used appropriately, they can help Virgin Atlantic to

Friday, October 25, 2019

The theatrical works of 5C Athens represent a very significant advance on Homers Iliad :: Ancient Greece Greek History

The theatrical works of 5C Athens represent a very significant advance on Homer's Iliad It is difficult to compare the works of Aristophanes and Homer, and make a decision as to whether or not Aristophanes' plays are more advanced than Homer's writing, as they serve a different purpose and are told conpletely differently. Aristophanes's stories are meant to be performed in the form of a play. Homer's Iliad is an epic, and through his language the reader can only picture the scene. They cannot be compared as such, but we may pass judgment on whether the works of Aristophanes has advanced in quality, in relation to Homer's Iliad. Literature reflects the circumstances of the times by providing a social and political commentary. This commentary is represented by Aristophanes, one of the best known tragic and comic poets of the fifth and fourth century B.C. As Greek society became more sophisticated a new type of poetry arose among the Greeks. Unlike Homer, authors of this lyric poetry sang not of legendary events but of present delights and sorrows. This new note, personal and passionate, can be seen in the works of Aristophanes, in which the contrast between the new values and those of Homer's heroic age is sharply clear. By the fifth century B.C. in Athens, two distinct forms, tragedy and comedy, had evolved. Borrowing from the old familiar legends of gods and heroes for their plots, the tragedians reinterpreted them in the light of the values and problems of their own times. Comedies were vulgar and lively. There were no laws against libel or obscenity in Athens, so political satire became a favorite subject of the comedians. Aristophanes, the most famous comic-dramatist, brilliantly satirized Athenian democracy as a mob led by demagogues. A favorite target of his was the political leader Cleon - he based several of his plays around him. Yet he also put intelligent messages between his jokes. For example, in his play Lysistrata, the women of Greece stop the Peloponnesian War with a sex boycott, refusing to sleep with their husbands until they agree to end the fighting; thus, he could advocate peace and women's rights in the same story. By allowing such coarse humor even in difficult times, the Athenians may have shown us why Athens remained a cultural center after its best years ended; they were never afraid of the truth, and could always laugh at themselves. The theatrical works of 5C Athens represent a very significant advance on Homer's Iliad :: Ancient Greece Greek History The theatrical works of 5C Athens represent a very significant advance on Homer's Iliad It is difficult to compare the works of Aristophanes and Homer, and make a decision as to whether or not Aristophanes' plays are more advanced than Homer's writing, as they serve a different purpose and are told conpletely differently. Aristophanes's stories are meant to be performed in the form of a play. Homer's Iliad is an epic, and through his language the reader can only picture the scene. They cannot be compared as such, but we may pass judgment on whether the works of Aristophanes has advanced in quality, in relation to Homer's Iliad. Literature reflects the circumstances of the times by providing a social and political commentary. This commentary is represented by Aristophanes, one of the best known tragic and comic poets of the fifth and fourth century B.C. As Greek society became more sophisticated a new type of poetry arose among the Greeks. Unlike Homer, authors of this lyric poetry sang not of legendary events but of present delights and sorrows. This new note, personal and passionate, can be seen in the works of Aristophanes, in which the contrast between the new values and those of Homer's heroic age is sharply clear. By the fifth century B.C. in Athens, two distinct forms, tragedy and comedy, had evolved. Borrowing from the old familiar legends of gods and heroes for their plots, the tragedians reinterpreted them in the light of the values and problems of their own times. Comedies were vulgar and lively. There were no laws against libel or obscenity in Athens, so political satire became a favorite subject of the comedians. Aristophanes, the most famous comic-dramatist, brilliantly satirized Athenian democracy as a mob led by demagogues. A favorite target of his was the political leader Cleon - he based several of his plays around him. Yet he also put intelligent messages between his jokes. For example, in his play Lysistrata, the women of Greece stop the Peloponnesian War with a sex boycott, refusing to sleep with their husbands until they agree to end the fighting; thus, he could advocate peace and women's rights in the same story. By allowing such coarse humor even in difficult times, the Athenians may have shown us why Athens remained a cultural center after its best years ended; they were never afraid of the truth, and could always laugh at themselves.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Park internet gambling Essay

Chapter IV Sub problem 1: What is the main reason of IT students to enter gambling through the use of computer games? Reasons| Male(n= 58)| %| Female(n=42)| %| Totaln=100| %| Rank| Lack of Money| 15| 26%| 13| 31%| 28| 28%| 8| To forget love problems| 14| 24%| 10| 24%| 24| 24%| 10| For Enjoyment| 43| 74%| 33| 79%| 76| 76%| 2| To earn extra income| 14| 24%| 9| 21%| 23| 23%| 11| Addiction in Playing| 33| 57%| 25| 60%| 58| 58%| 3| Lack of love from family| 1| .98%| 7| 17%| 8| 8%| 12| Peer Pressure| 23| 40%| 14| 33%| 37| 37%| 7| Past Time| 49| 85%| 38| 90%| 87| 87%| 1| To avoid boredom| 29| 50%| 14| 33%| 43| 43%| 5| To Socialize & meet new friends| 16| 28%| 11| 26%| 27| 27%| 9| Hobby| 28| 48%| 23| 55%| 51| 51%| 4| Stress Reliever| 23| 40%| 16| 38%| 39| 39%| 6| Out of 42 female respondents, majority of them says that they are playing computer games and entering gambling for past time and the least reason that they have chosen is also the same as the male respondents answered, lack of love from family maybe because it’s not a big deal for them to handle family issues. POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES Rank 1= Past Time Rank 10= To Forget Love Problems Rank 2= Enjoyment Rank 11= to earn extra income Rank 3= Addiction in Playing Rank 12= Lack of love from Family Rank 4= Hobby Rank 5= to avoid Boredom Rank 6= Stress Reliever Rank 7= Peer Pressure Rank 8= Lack of Money Rank 9= To Socialize SUMMARY OF FINDINGS The purpose of this study is to know the reasons of the I.T Students why their used to gamble using computer games. We conducted a survey to know their reasons. We gathered some information to our classmates who used to gamble using computer games. The questionnaire was spread in all I.T Students of Institute Technology. We made 100 copies of questionnaire for us to evaluate their own reasons. We also gave them 15 questions to choose 5 main of their reasons to enter this kind of gamble. BIBLIOGRAPHY http://www.thedti.gov.za/news2011/Appendix.pdf http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Gambling_Impact_Study_Commission_Act POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES Polytechnic University of the Philippines Institute of Technology Sta. Mesa Manila Dear IT Students: This survey was conducted to determine the Reason of IT students to enter the gambling through the use of Computer Games. Truly yours, Students of ICMT Name: __________________________________ Course:______________________ School: _______________________________________________________________________ Topic: Reasons of the IT Students to enter gambling through the use of Computer Games. Directions: Choose 5 specific problems why IT Students enter gambling through the use of computer games. ( ) Because Lack of Money ( ) To forget Love Problems ( ) For Enjoyment ( ) To earn extra income ( ) Addiction in Playing ( ) Lack of love from Family ( ) Peer Pressure ( ) Past Time ( ) To avoid boredom ( ) To Socialize & meet new friends ( ) Hobby ( ) Stress Reliever Hypothesis There are differences on the respondents of the I.T Students in Institute of Technology between their answers in the survey that we provided. In reasons of the I.T Students to enter gambling through the use of the computer games (Lack of Money), (To forget love problems), (For Enjoyment) (To earn extra income), (Addiction in playing), (Lack of love from family), (Peer Pressure) (Past time), (To avoid boredom), (To Socialize and meet new friends), (Hobby) and (Stress Reliever). Scope and Limitation of the student This study covered the reasons of the I.T Students to enter gambling through the use of Computer Games. There are weaknesses and limitations associated with the study. Steps to improve the reliability of self-report include the assurance of anonymity. Although the participants were encouraged to answer honestly and reminded that their responses would be anonymous, they may not have been entirely honest in their self- reported gambling behaviors and may have intentionally or unintentionally given false information about the variables under study. POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES This study sought the reasons of the I.T Students to enter the gambling through the use of computer games. Specifically, this research determined each reason of the students. IT students would benefit from this research because they can manage more efficiently and reduced the time that they wasting for the computer games. A lack of exposure may also mean the I.T students are less aware of the Potential risks associated with gambling. A lack of experience is also likely to mean the students are less familiar with strategies for self†regulating gambling such as taking a set amount of money to venues and mixing gambling with other forms of entertainment. POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES Out of 58 male respondents, majority of them says that they are playing computer games and entering gambling for past time and the least reason that they have chosen is lack of love from family maybe because it’s not a big deal for them to handle family issues. Out of 42 female respondents, majority of them says that they are playing computer games and entering gambling for past time and the least reason that they have chosen is also the same as the male respondents answered, lack of love from family maybe because it’s not a big deal for them to handle family issues. POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES Foreign Studies Mark D Griffiths and Jonathan Park Internet gambling is a relatively under-researched area. While our current knowledge remains in its infancy and the prevalence rates are relatively low, researchers and cliniciansare predicting greater involvement among youth. A comprehensive search of the relevant literature was undertaken. The resulting relevant literature was classified into four areas. These were (a) the empirical studies on adolescent internet gambling, (b) online gambling-like experiences in adolescence, (c) adolescent gambling via social networking sites, and (d) adolescent gambling via online penny auction sites. Age verification in relation to prevention and regulation is also examined. It is concluded that young people appear to be very proficient in using and accessing new media and are likely to be increasingly exposed to remote gambling opportunities. These young people will therefore require education and guidance to enable them to cope with the challenges of convenience gambling in all its guises. POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES Local Studies The National Gambling Impact Study Commission Act of 1996 (Public, 110 Stat. 1482, enacted August 3, 1996) is an Act of Congress that was signed into law by President of the United States Bill Clinton. This legislation established the National Gambling Impact Study Commission in 1997 to conduct a comprehensive legal and factual study of the social and economic impacts of gambling in the United States on: (1) Federal, State, local, and Native American tribal governments; and (2) communities and social institutions generally, including individuals, families, and businesses within such communities and institutions. Mandates a report to the President, the Congress, State Governors, and Native American tribal governments. Requires the Commission to contract with the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations and the United States National Research Council for assistance with the study. Authorizes appropriations. Specifically the commission was to look at the following: 1. existing policies and practices concerning the legalization of prohibition of gambling 2. the relationship between gambling and crime 3. the nature and impact of pathological and problem gambling 4. the impacts of gambling on individuals, communities, and the economy, including depressed economic areas 5. the extent to which gambling revenue had benefited various governments and whether alternative revenue sources existed 6. the effects of technology, including the Internet on gambling The study lasted two years, and in 1999 the commission released it final report. There was a separate section on Indian gaming provided.[2] POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES Statement of the problem Moreover, there has been little research documenting whether general gaming education has any effect on students’ gambling attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions. Hence, there remains a void for studies related to these factors. College administrators and student affairs professionals have been criticized for the lack of attention and recognition of the gambling issue on campuses. A study by Shaffer, et al (2005) revealed that although gambling is commonplace on college campuses, only 22 percent of 119 schools studied had adopted any type of gambling policy.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Stylistic Analysis. Doctor in the House

â€Å"Doctor in the house† is written by Richard Gordon a real ship’s surgeon and an assistant editor of the British Medical Journal. The story deals with describing process of exams, difficulties provided by them and students’ feelings and thoughts before and after examinations. The general slant of the story is quite tense, gloomy and even a bit depressed. It makes the Reader feel anxious and it forces us to have a disagreeable sense of a heavy load because we worry about the narrator’s success at the exam. The author manages to create such an atmosphere by an abundant use of similes.He compares examinations with a serious contest, an eight-round fight, a final breathless sprint and even with death. All these devices leave a very vivid description of the students’ anticipating such an unpleasant inevitability as the exam. By means of the author’s language our imagination depicts a distinct and colorful picture proving the effectiveness of t he stylistic devices in Gordon’s description. It’s hard to believe but suspense is even growing from one paragraph to another turning just an investigation of a man’s knowledge into judgment day. Also read: The Man With The Scar AnalysisAnd to my mind this allusion is chosen nonrandom but to emphasize a meaning of the exam for candidates. And Gordon asserts that if an examinee loses his nerve he’s like a cow in a bog and soon he will be finished. But not all students act like this and knowing that the author focuses his attention on describing different psychological types of candidates. He pictures them with common understandable vocabulary which refers us to life and makes the portraits very convincing.At the same time Gordon adds some tiny but significant details like the Nonchalant lolling back on the chair, the Franky Worried tearing his invitation, the Crammer fondling his books, the Old Stager treating like a photographer at a wedding. Besides an attentive Reader could notice how skillfully the author names these types underlining their essences and expressing them shortly just in one word. Meanwhile despite of a psychological type everybody can find no peace af ter the exam not knowing anything about their results. And the author perfectly conveys students’ sense of futility and despair considering these days to be black.It helps the Reader to guess how difficult to cope with such a condition when you are numbed, unable to realize what has happened and everything you can is just hope for the better. This is precisely what the author says about pernicious aftereffect of exams. So as I said the suspense is still growing especially when the results are about to come out. Gordon gives us a very unusual and picturesque image of the speechless world where everything isn’t going to stir, not a leaf. The Reader has already got used to a high speed of the story and this sudden stop makes a great contrast in mood between the whole text and the last part.But this stillness is fake the narrator’s heart is on a point of leaping out of his chest. The description of the hero’s state is highly emotional. His wet palms, burning face, pulse in his ears keeps the Reader in so great tension which disappears at once after just one word ‘pass’. And a long-awaited relief covers the narrator and the reader because the author ideally coped with his main task – he hold our attention during the whole narration compelling us to feel we are inside of this story.