Business Policy Coco Cola

In strategic planning organizations make use of different techniques such as establishing the weaknesses, strengths, threats and opportunities as well as the social, economic, political and technological investigation of the environment surrounding the organization. In this perspective, the major objective of strategic planning in any organization is to establish and define a clear course of its future operations. As a result, strategic planning in any organization seeks to address several questions concerned with how, to whom and what to do in order to achieve the future growth path that will accelerate the profitability and expansion of the company. In the development of organizational strategies, environmental analysis is therefore key to the development of the organizational future (John, 2001).In this regard, analysis of strategies must be carried both externally and internally in order to identify threats and opportunities that prevail in and around the organization. Many compa nies have faied to initiate effective strategic planning techniques and the effects of the current recession has therefore downed on them. Such companies include General Motors and AIG to mention a few. In the subsequent section, this work will seek to explore strategic planning in Coca Cola Company. 2. 0 The importance of strategic planning in Coca-Cola Company Strategic planning is important for Coca Cola Company due to the fact that as a global Company, effective strategic planning helps in counteracting the challenges that are common in foreign countries such as competition and government regulations.Another importance of Strategic Planning is that it helps the Coca Cola Company to survive the current changes in the communication technology by highly investing in internet marketing and advertising. For Coca-Cola Company to maintain its wide range of beverages and customers, Strategic Planning is one of the best concepts that its management has seriously invested in. This in retu rn has benefited the company by giving it clear direction and purpose (Roger, 1995) Furthermore, strategic Planning helps Coca-Cola Company in balancing productivity costs and other related initiatives with the revenue generated. In this way unnecessary costs are avoided thus resulting to increased profitability. In context of Coca-Cola Company strategic planning involves the allocation of resources which includes people and capital.Strategic planning is also essential for Coca cola Company since: It helps the company in facing its competitors. Through better understanding of the Weaknesses, Strengths, Threats and Opportunities of its competitors the company has been able to diversify its range of products as well as producing high quality products which have proved hard to emulate by the competitors (John, 2001) According to John, the importance of Strategic planning is quite significant since it helps the Company’s management in addressing the following three questions. The first question is how do Coca-Cola Company excel? The second question involves what does the company do in order to be the market leader in the soft drink?The management is able to address the question â€Å"for whom do we do it? † Basically in strategic planning the three questions can be generalized by reframing them into one major question that is â€Å"How can Coca-cola company avoid the negativities of competition or similarly which additional measures can be put in place in order to beat competition? † (Bradford, Robert, Duncan, Peter, Tarcy and Brian, 2007). The company has six highly recognized strategic planning strategies that have to a great extent contributed to the continued success of the company. The autonomy that is experienced by most of the Coca-Cola distributors have enabled the freely integration of these priorities into their business plans.The six strategies are as follows. The first ones is that the Company will always use Coca-Cola as its brand name and its main activity will be production of carbonated soft drinks. The second strategy is to broaden its brands in order to increase its profit. It is through this initiative that the company has added new products which include bottled water, coffee, tea, juice and juice drinks. The third strategy is the adoption of cost effective and driving efficiencies as a result of economies of scale. The fourth strategy is serving its customers with consistence and creativity in this way it has been able to help the growth of its customers as well as its own expansion.The fifth strategy is making heavy investment in production technology in this way it has been able to meet the demand of its customers. Being a company that highly values good relationship with its bottling partners and its employees the company has emulated the strategy of teamwork as the sixth strategy in order to increase its sales and profits 3. 0 Can an organization survive without strategy planning? Coca-Cola Compa ny and any other international company cannot survive without strategic planning since this is the only way that the company will be able to successfully and actively face the challenges that have resulted to the downfall of big entities such as Morgan Stanley, AIG and even the recent disintegration of General Motor.The company can hardly survive without trategic planning due to heavy competition and modern marketing technologies that have been adopted by many companies in the beverage industry so as to improve on both quality and quantity of the products. As an example let us look at the General Motors as one of the recent victim of failure to adopt strategic planning (Bradford and Duncan, 2000). The fall of General Motors can be traced to the ineffective strategic planning methods that have been adopted by the corporation making it to declare itself bankrupt. Effective strategic planning was the missing concept that would have saved the 235,000 employees as well as the shareholder s and other stake holders who had interest in the corporation. The question of recession and the reduced demand in the world market cannot be ignored as one of the major causes of the downfall of GM.However, the failure to plan and to put in place effective control measures has to a great extent contributed to its poor performance. Effective strategic planning is crucial tool that keeps companies ready to tackle micro and macro economic obstacles such as inflation and recession which GM, AIG and Morgan Stanley banks failed initiate leading to their collapse (Hitt, Tihanyi, Miller and Connelly, 2006). 4. 0 Different processes and modes of planning, and its effect on the strategic planning process There are various processes and techniques of planning that an organization can adopt depending on the prevailing market, social and economic conditions (John, 2001).4. Customers’ relations strategy This mode of planning considers the importance of customers in a firm. A company adopt ing this strategy aims at keeping its customers satisfied as well as maintaining the customers’ loyalty towards its products. The effect of this planning technique towards the strategic planning process is that it helps in achieving and maintaining the high number of customers thus increasing its total sales (http://www. civicus. org) 4. 2 Cash-cow strategy This is a strategy that oversees the use of profits gained from the operations of the companies so as to improve its management as well as to expand the range of its products.The effect of this mode of planning on the strategic planning is that it ensures continuity of the company operations and hence it acts as an appropriate tool to face off the competitors (John, 2001). 4. 3 Star strategy This is a planning technique that involves increased reinvesting of the profits so as to be able to address future challenges that companies faces in foreign and domestic market. The effect of this technique on the strategic planning i s that it helps companies to put in place effective and strong financial strength needed when penetrating global market. 5. 0 Mode of planning followed by the Coca Cola Company and how this process can be improved.In its operations Coca Cola Company has adopted the customers’ relations strategy. The company highly values its customers and as a result it has invested in tailor made drinks that aims at fully satisfying its customers. In its marketing strategies, the company has adopted the target marketing and product variety marketing processes. Target marketing involves selection of part of the whole market and producing tailor made products that satisfies its customers in that particular market. In its endeavors as the market leader in the soft drink industry, Coca cola Company has embarked in producing a wide range of products which makes it possible to stay ahead of its competitors.The process of planning used by Coca Cola Company can be improved by adopting pricing strate gies that will make it easier to penetrate the market where its competitors are offering products at low prices. 6. 0 Task 2 External environment is composed of government or political, economic and social environment. This section looks at the impact of these factors on the task environment of an organization. 6. 1 Government/political environment In its operations an organization should put into consideration government regulations that directly or indirectly affect its activities. The legal requirements of a company which include trade licenses and permits should be timely acquired to avoid any fine or legal implications in an organizations which results to delay and time wastage.Another way through which government regulations affects the task environment of an organization is by regulating the quality of the products and services that are produced by an organization. In this way the company has an obligation to ensure that the legal specifications and the safety of its products are well adhered to in order to safeguard its customers (http://www. planware. org/strategicplan. htm) 6. 2 Economic environment Economic environment that affects the organization task environment includes inflation, recession and the unemployment level. During inflation the costs of production goes up making an organization reduce its productivity thus reducing its sales as well as profits.Recession on the other hand intensively affects the task environment of a company by slowing down production activities thus affecting its sales in both domestic and foreign market. This can be demonstrated by the extent to which recession has negatively affected the operations of big corporations such as General Motors and AIG. Unemployment level reduces the disposable income of individuals thereby reducing their demand of goods and services which results to reduced operations of an organization (Hitt, Tihanyi, Miller and Connelly, 2006). 6. 3 Social Environment The social factors also affect t he task environment of an organization. These factors include level of education, eating habits, religious and cultural beliefs of communities.The education level of the society highly affects the demand of the firms products for instance where majority of people are educated and have high level of income, the demand for basic needs and luxuries goes up. Similarly, cultural beliefs and religious beliefs affect the demand of some products and services more than others especially where some cultures do prohibit the use of certain products. Social factors therefore affect the task environment of an organization by affecting the demand and the supply of goods and services (Patrick, Burkhart and Suzanne, 1993). 7. 0 How can Managers identify and track these external strategic factors Managers can identify the external environment by analyzing the external environment.In this, managers will be able to identify the opportunities, strengths and weaknesses related to these factors and their relevancy in the performance of a firm. In addition managers should freely intermingle with the external environment as well as the general society during the social corporate responsibilities. In this way it will be easy to identify and track the external factors and be able to come up with strategic planning techniques to address these factors (Wang and Jiatao, 2008) 8. 0 Factors in the external environment that would influence strategy planning in Coca-Cola Company and part they play in strategic planning in the CompanyThe factors that would influence strategy planning by Coca-Cola Company can be viewed in two dimensions. The first one is from economic perspective. This involves the increase or decrease in the demand of coca-cola brands as result of inflation or reduced purchasing power. The reduction in consumers’ purchasing power causes a decrease in demand for coca-cola brands resulting to a decrease in sales level. In this case the Coca-Cola management needs to put in place effective strategic planning in its pricing concept such as reducing prices or initiating more promotions. The second dimension is the composition of the society. A society with more young people is a favorable market for Coca-Cola brands such as Coke and Fanta.In this way management of Coca-Cola Company should initiate effective strategies in order to increase the sales level and at the same time satisfy its young market without neglecting its old customers by initiating more energy drinks for young people (http://www. wowessays. com/dbase/ab1/iev224. shtml)9. 0 ReferencesInformation on strategic planning for non-profit or for profit organizations available from http://managementhelp. org/plan_dec/str_plan/str_plan. htm (Retrieved on 5th August 2009)Information on strategic planning process available from http://www. quickmba. com/strategy/strategic-planning (Retrieved on 5th August 2009)

Dexter vs. Breaking Bad

The American Dream: Dexter vs. Breaking Bad The concept of the American Dream has been around us since the foundation of America and is largely what forms it. This ideal embraces fundamental freedoms that are endowed to each person. It strives for freedom, opportunity, and entrepreneurship for all people. Two television series that incorporate this principle are Dexter and Breaking Bad. Dexter focuses on a blood splatter analyst named Dexter who works to find clues/evidence in crime scenes by day, and secretly is a vigilante serial killer by night.Breaking Bad encompasses a chemistry teacher named Walter White who finds out that he has contracted lung cancer and must find a way to pay for his medical bills. Given his expertise with chemical properties, he decides to cook and sell the illegal and hazardous drug, methamphetamine. Both television shows Breaking Bad and Dexter criticize and portray ideals of the American Dream in their sophisticated plots and character portrayals. A larg e aspect of the American Dream is to ‘dream big. With both series, this concept is definitely represented well.In both circumstances, the protagonists in each show must cover p their devious ways to fit in and not be noticed by their surroundings. Walter does this by confining himself to his meth lab when he gets the free time in order to cook with his partner in crime, Jesse Pinkman. Dexter has to mask his acts of murder as well during his nighttime raids where he stalks his next malevolent victim. The average person Just looking at Dexter and Walter from a general standpoint would not have a clue as to what their side Jobs are.It is for this reason that the two shows do such worthy Jobs of depicting the characters as underdogs with lifestyles that would go unseen by most individuals. The family life and its significance is another key component to look at in both of the series. The concept of a strong family is a vital part of the American Dream. Both Dexter and Walter must support their families' needs and remain in good standing as fathers of their house. In both shows, the chemistry between the families lack greatly and thus successfully criticize that part of the American Dream.Walter must provide for his family while enduring the unfortunate hardship of his progressing lung cancer. Although he does end up providing enough money, Skylar, his wife, demands a divorce due to his chronic lying bout his whereabouts and his ignorance to his other fatherly demands – socializing with his family and being an exceptional role model. Dexter criticizes the notion of a structured and united family life. This original characteristic usually consisted of a happily married husband and wife that were raising a few children in a white picket fenced house.This stereotype is definitely combated in Dexter. Although Dexter does have a toddler son named Harrison whom he loves dearly and relates himself with his beginning, Dexter also has relations with numerous wo men throughout the series. Just a few women he does hook up with are Lila West, Rita Bennett, and Hannah McKay. America has its dark side. It is very apparent to the viewer that both shows do a superb Job at displaying this unfortunate reality.By doing so, the shows simultaneously mock the stereotypical characteristic of the American Dream ideal that the struggles and In Breaking Bad, there are numerous events that take place that embody this notion, such as the drug cartels that are largely organized under the main distributor, Gustavo Fring. There are many murders that occur as well, such as when Gale Boetticher (another meth. ab partner with Walter) is shot and killed by Jesse Pinkman due to Pinkman fearing that Gale would replace him as a partner of Walter, which would be a large financial disadvantage for Pinkman.It is no surprise that Dexter provides an abundant share of violence as well. Being centered on a serial killer, what would one expect? Dexter often makes his victims suffer the punishment that he believes they deserve. A prime example of this is when he hunts down and manages to abduct the infamous ‘bathtub killer' Arthur Mitchell. Dexter chats with Arthur about their beliefs of life and ridicules Arthur for killing innocent victims. Finally, Dexter bludgeons Arthur to death with the back of a hammer to end the scene on a sadistic, yet satisfying note.The method in which Walter gains his money is a superb example of another criticism of the American Dream ideal. The labor-intensive factory working environment was the original norm of how many Americans in the mid '50s found themselves in. Walter shatters this stereotype with his frequent seven-fgure drug deals with various clients. Not only does Walter live out this get- rich-quick mentality, but several others, such as Jesse Pinkman, Gustavo Fring, and Gale Boetticher are shown throughout the series to achieve wealth in a similar way – the exchanging of illegal drugs.Although the A merican Dream ideal has evolved over time, it is still largely predominant in todays society. The two television series do wonderful Jobs of portraying and criticizing the American Dream. Some of the major characteristics that they target are the importance of family life, the mentality to ‘dream big, and the reality of the ‘dark side' of America. The relations, portrayals, and criticisms of the American Dream ideal between Dexter and Breaking Bad can be easily deciphered if one Just simply looks for them.

Current Event Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Current Event - Research Paper Example This mainly affects consumers since the prices of commodities go on the rise and money becomes scarcer. The value of money in the affected states declines and therefore, a lot of money can only afford remarkably few commodities (Von, 2006). It is not easy to detect inflation as we can detect other things like drought. Once inflation has occurred, it puts away investors, and they prefer to invest in other states where the likelihood of making profits is higher with fewer risks of their businesses collapsing. This is in line with Buttonwood’s arguments. It even results to release of fewer goods and services into the market since raw materials are unavailable or the cost is too high. Customers may end up lacking particularly essential commodities or getting them at exaggerated prices. Inflation may be because of different things. Buttonwood article gives mixed reactions from economists. The article confirms that inflation might be as a result of hoarding of essential commodities that are in high demand. However, the main cause of inflation is the government activities, Buttonwood confirm. In cases where the government prints excess money, when it releases it in to circulation, aiming to deal with a certain crisis it raises inflation instead. Increased supply of money results to decline in the value of money reducing the prices of commodities and raising inflation (Voitovich, 1995) Customers are among those directly affected by profit margins. A raised profit margin increases the prices of commodities, and this affects the quantity that the consumer purchases. High profit margins can help maintain a business in the market, but this is only possible if their particular goods are in high demand (Von, 2006). Failure to have high demands, the company fails to realize its set goal, hence may end up not affording to pay its workers, and therefore only resolves to lay them off. According to Robinson (2007), unemployment means further decline in the products consump tion fewer sales and therefore this only favors the competitors of the declining business. International lending and national debts by the third world may be a leading cause of inflation. The developing countries borrow funds from the developed ones and pay them off with heavy interests (Sandmo, 2011). To deal with the debts they developing governments overtax their consumers to raise revenue and this result to increased prices of commodities reducing affordability. The citizens carry the burden of buying goods at unreasonably high prices. This is usually exploitation of the developing countries by the already developed ones. Article relation to economics Scheidel (2007) in support of Buttonwood (2012) article adds that another cause of inflation may be political instabilities within states. In cases of involvement into wars, the environment is usually not conducive for producers and therefore this means shortages in the supply of commodities. He argues that shortages in supply mean hiked prices that are unaffordable with the limited finances available. For example, when U.S.A attacked Iraq, this caused political instability in Iraq and hence affected the supply of petroleum products to the entire world. Supply of oil drastically declined and therefore this caused global inflation, that shortage affected every country. This has also happened in African countries after the supply of oil by Libya was

Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 12

Policy - Essay Example As an assistant director if the company, I have come up with a policy that will enable parents to keep touch with their children even when they are out of the facility for a recreational visit. The phones will also allow parents to alert the facility beforehand if they want to visit their children. The new cell phones will be managed by the manager of each facility, and he will be in charge of assigning the staff in charge of handling the mobile phone. The responsibility of the assigned staff would be to ensure that the one is charged all the time so that it never goes off to ensure that the facility is reachable at all times. The assigned staff would also be responsible for checking all the voice messages, and any information that is intended for the management should be forwarded accordingly. In cases where there are two groups going out for a recreation facility, it is the responsibility of the staff in charge to ensure that the other group has a reliable phone number that can be used in cases of

Managing Earth's Natural Resources Research Paper

Managing Earth's Natural Resources - Research Paper Example I have read your arguments, which support the lifting of new permits for hydraulic fracturing. Looking keenly on the arguments which you brought forward, I tend to object the move to allow corporations to destruct Callicoon. This is because the negative effects of permitting extraction companies to explore this area outweigh the perceived positive outcomes. To start with, the hydraulic fracturing fluids contain toxic and carcinogenic chemicals. These chemicals pose a danger to contaminate large portions of underground water. Contamination of water endangers the lives of aquatic animals such as fish in Callicoon-on-the-Delaware. In addition, the noxious chemicals such as benzene and ethyl benzene can enter the food chain of water animals, which are essential as a food source for people. The case of death of fish in 2009 because of Cabot Oil and Gas well in Pennsylvania should be a good example for you to consider before supporting the activities of the drillers. On top of this, plants can absorb these poisonous chemicals after diluting with water and therefore posing danger of their extinction (McGraw 1). This therefore, will destroy the natural and scenic Callicoon. The testing of water, which the drilling companies advance, may not be perfect. Jack, you should know that these companies are out to make huge profits (Kastenbaum 1). Therefore, I have fears they can claim that the water is safe so that they continue with their profitable natural gas extraction. Second, the pressurized fluids, which the drilling companies employ, are very high and can cause unwanted spill over to the areas that neighbors fracturing site. These spills can lead to surface contamination. Similarly, the spills can flow back to the rivers endangering the aquatic lives. In addition, the drilling process emits harmful gases such as methane. Methane gas has detrimental effects to the environment such as formation of acid rain, which can destruct natural vegetation. In addition, methane con tamination of underground water leads to explosion of residential houses. While I acknowledge your futuristic thinking, the desire for large sums of money can be a source of havoc in many people living Callicoon. The case of Pennsylvania is still live in my memory. The actions of drilling companies have led to more than eighteen families to look for ways to get clean water. This after methane and other toxic chemicals contaminated their water. Drinking of this water, which contains hydraulic fracturing chemicals, poses health hazards to the people of Pennsylvania. Some of these fracturing fluids such as ZetaFlow, are very dangers and can cause loss of senses of smell and headache. At extreme cases, the fluid in question can lead to breakdown in heart and lungs (Wireback 1). Lastly, the drilling process has potential of creating water shortage in Callicoon and New York. This is because the extraction of natural gas utilizes large volumes of water. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approximated that drilling uses 70 to 140 billion gallons of water to drill 35,000 wells annually. According to this agency, this water can sustain 40 to 80 cities, which is an equivalent of 50,000 people (McGraw 2). Lack of water is detrimental to the lives of animals and vegetation in New York. Jack, it is evident that supporting the lift of moratorium on hydraulic fracturing will create anarchy and suffering to the people of New York. I encourage you Jack to shun away short-lived benefits of allowing contractors to exploit

Product Reassessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Product Reassessment - Essay Example The BlackBerry previously was restricted to corporate only. However, it has recently been opened to any user of the mobile phone. The current population in the United States is composed on majority youths who increasingly need to communicate through the social media with peers as well as with corporations in which they have interest to work for. It can be well repositioned in the market through doing market research in order to identify the market segmentation so that marketing strategies can be developed so as to market the product in the most significant segments of the market (United States Census Bureau, 2010). The population of the United States is composed of corporations, individuals and other organizations of different lifestyles and ages. Repositioning this product in the market would involve carrying a market analysis of the demographic factors of the United States population. It is important to identify certain significant research methods applicable in finding necessary m eans of repositioning BlackBerry in the market. One such research method would be comparative research methodology, which involves finding of the various aspects of the demographic factors of the United States, in which case, differences and similarities with regard to the cultural aspects as well as lifestyles of the different market segments will be considered. Proper analysis of the characteristics of United States demographics will be scrutinized in order to ensure that significant findings which can assists in drawing of relevant conclusions are found. Surveys can be conducted with regard to popularity of this product so that data and information can be obtained (United States Census Bureau, 2010). Comparisons should be made with regard to the various factors contributing to the decline in the usage of the product in the United States. Similarities which exist with regard to different demographic factors should be considered in which case differences should as well be analyzed concerning the differences among the demographic factors. This will be significant in identifying various concerning issues which impact on the fresh marketing of this product so that it strongly establishes in the United States market. As such, it is clear that comparative research method will be significant in carrying out this kind of research in order to enhance repositioning of the product in the market. In order to increase adoption rates, certain significant methods should be used so as to encourage people to revert to usage of the BlackBerry in the United States. Marketing strategies would be high significant in this regard. Advertising of the products should be done through various advertising media including the television, radios, the as well as print press. Essentially adverts should be repeated on certain intervals within the televisions and radios in order to keep the masses informed and aware of the product. Product features should be well displayed and demonstration on the usage of the product well done in order to make prospective buyers to develop interest in the product (United States Census Bureau, 2010). Sales agents should be positioned in different areas and regions which are the target market for the organization producing the BlackBerry. Essentially, promotional strategies would be applicable to ensuring creation of awareness as well as

Compare the carnival of Barranquila with the one of Rio de Janeiro and Essay

Compare the carnival of Barranquila with the one of Rio de Janeiro and another one in the US - Essay Example This essay intends to explore the subtle and intricate differences between the carnival of Barranquilla with that of Rio-de-Janerio and that of the Atlanta carnival in the United Sates which make them unique in their respective ways. Carnival of Barranquilla is one of the biggest and popular carnivals. This carnival is renowned as one of the biggest folklores and as the most significant celebration in Colombia. The heritage of the carnival is quite ancient and its traditions originate back in 19th century. The event is marked by exotic and intense festivities and the deck of Barranquilla warmly welcomes the tourists and nationals at least forty days before the initiation of the festival. The festival is marked by its unique dance practices of paloteo of Spanish origin along with Congo dance of Africa and indigenous music and dance of mico y micas. The carnival is marked by the wide practice of varieties of Columbian music and cumbia is pertinently practiced in the carnival. The cumbia music and dance is the most important activity of the carnival and the practice of this kind of music and dance in the festival makes it unique in its essence (Sinning, â€Å"Joselito Carnaval†; Proexport Colombia, â€Å"Th e Barranquilla Carnival: The Most Colorful Carnival in the World†). The extraordinary blend of the ancient and colorful tribal dances of African origin with the accompaniment of Spanish music enriches and renders a unique quality to the festivity. Among those, the dances like porro, mapale, puya and cumbia generate the chief attraction of the carnival. The carnival initiates on Saturday and ends on Tuesday. The inception of the festival is marked by the battle of flowers which is a treat to the eyes and is unique of its kind. The finale of the festival includes mourning day and the death of the Joselito Carvajal is observed followed by the announcement of his burial (Sinning, â€Å"Joselito

Letter to the Editor Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

Letter to the Editor - Essay Example I am therefore writing this in the expression of my concern about the increased road accidents due to careless driving in Lawrence area. From the accident mentioned, the Kansas highway patrol reports have indicated that there are several state laws on road safety that are severely violated. In most cases, drivers choose to ignore these rules. It has been proved that that just 70% of drivers on the road belt up as opposed to the required 100%. In case of an accident, it is hazardous, and it has been established that the highest number of deaths occur to those that fail to belt up as opposed to those that belt up. The driving for that matter has been careless. There have been reports of over-speeding in which drivers go beyond the required speed. This has led to many drivers losing control and knocking over pedestrians on the road pavements. Apart from overspending, the other problem as has been established is that the drivers and the passengers hardly belt up. A high number of accidents caused by impact lead to deaths because of the drivers and passengers failed to belt up. Disregarding the traffic rules and road signs is a deliberate act that causes accidents. Consider the March 2nd, 2014 accident in which a driver along Douglas County Road 1061 failed to stop at the US-56 intersection. The vehicle ended up being hit by a GMC Denali XL sports car, and the two ended up landing in a ditch with one vehicle landing on top of the other. Hospital reports have indicated that there are some drivers that drive under the influence of drugs and alcohol in complete contravention of the Kansas traffic l aws. There are several solutions that need to be implemented to curb this reckless loss of lives on the roads. The first solution is that the highway patrol police need to implement laws on driving as well spelt out in Kansas Statutes Chapter 8 Article 10. In this, no driver is supposed to take the

Worker compensation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Worker compensation - Essay Example nd the companies with modified duty programme to be better, and for these reason insurance companies normally lower the business workers’ compensation premiums for such companies. Placing the injured employees into modified work programme makes the employees to realize that time off of work is a rare event, and not a paid vacation. This move in consequence discourages the employees dishonestly requesting for paid vacations. Another advantage of implementing modified duty programme is that the employees will work within their ability, thus helping the Company to getting productive work its employees; the modified duty programme also makes the employees to return to their regular jobs faster. Modified duty programme also allows the employees to easily get into their normal routine, thus preventing the employees from being overwhelmed with work. This programme also makes the employees to feel important and appreciated by the Company for which they work. The employees under the mo dified work programme are paid by the Company and they are allowed to resume their work earlier. Modified duty programme also helps Companies to maintain a well-informed workforce, which of big advantage to the Company. An effective light/modified duty programme gives a detailed description of each work done in the work place. Since supervisors and managers are aware of the work being done within a business organization, they can make a list of all work done in the business organization. There is need for uniformity on the format for how everything is written down and described in the Company. With this kind of information, employees can easily find jobs that suit injured employees. Bearing in mind the common workplace injuries, the employees can plan beforehand on what kinds of jobs can be done with the employees with certain injuries. There is need for effective communication between the medical providers and the Company in which the Company informs the medical providers of the kind

Drug cartels and drug trafficking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Drug cartels and drug trafficking - Essay Example Prices of heroin and cocaine have decreased substantially in the past two decades, indicating greater availability (Lyman, 2010). The efficacy of international narcotics control policies remains a major issue. Millions of Americans purchase illegal drugs, spending roughly $60 billion yearly in multiple illegal markets (Barton, 2007, 18). These drugs are damaging to the user’s overall wellbeing, productivity, decision-making capacity, and health. Furthermore, the U.S. illegal drug market makes massive profits. These profits generate resources needed by global drug trafficking organizations to successfully dodge and fight with law enforcers, to break through legal economic sectors, and, in certain cases, to defy the power of the state (Erlen & Spillane, 2004). Computed in terms of dollar value, four-fifths of the total illegal drugs purchased in the U.S. come from foreign countries, as well as majority of the marijuana, heroin, and cocaine, as reported by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in 2002 (Barton, 2007, 19). According to Hinojosa (2007), the methamphetamine market, as stated by the DEA, is supplied mostly from Mexican and U.S. laboratories while majority of †˜designer’ drugs, unlawfully traded psychotherapeutic drugs, and hallucinogens comes from the U.S. The drug industry is highly profitable and a major source of international criminal operations. As stated in a 2002 report by the State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), more or less 930 tons of cocaine may have been manufactured in South America in 2001 (Barton, 2007, 19). A 2002 investigation by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime calculated the total profit of the illegal drug market in the Caribbean at $3.3 billion (Barton, 2007, 19). Not much is known about the circulation of profits from illegal drug trade, but foreign drug cartels hold substantial power over general

Aim in Life Essay Example for Free

Aim in Life Essay Most people in the world have some ambitions in life. A petty merchant has an ambition to become a big business man, a clerk to be a high officer, a student to be a doctor or engineer. Some desire for wealth, some desire for fame and reputation. A proper aim in life keeps a person shining and glowing in his future life. My aim in life is neither to collect money this or by that way nor for fame. It is my desire to become a well qualified doctor or a scientist. I do not just wish to be an ordinary doctor who spends his times in his laboratory trying to find out new drugs and medicines to remove the suffering of millions of people. The world remembers with thankfulness the name of the man who gave to the world vaccination. The world will remember forever the man who gave us penicillin. As a doctor it is my real wish to server the badly suffering humanity too. Our country is still under development and it has become necessary for all of us, especially for doctors to acheive sound progress in the field of new drugs and medicines, And for the prosperity and solidarity of pakistan we should work hard with spiritual zeal and zeast. I have an ambition to do something in this world so great as the doctors and the courages founders did in the past. I would like to give the world some new drugs and injections that will cure some of the many disease that people are still suffering from. In my opinion, wealth, fame and any other kind of materialistic gain are hollow and baseless if earned through unfair means. In my ambition, it is great wish to help the suffering people. For lawful earnings it will be my foremost dut to server the humanity, by going to the rural areas of this under developed country in order to help the poor and humble people for their happiness and entire satisfaction.

Analysis Of McDonalds Corporations

Analysis Of McDonalds Corporations In this report, thorough analysis of McDonalds Corporations position strategies has been design on the basis of the given contexts. Two different topics have been given to discuss in this case. The first topic focuses on the environmental factors that may affect McDonalds business. This topic has been addressed by six different factors which may broadly affect the business of McDonalds. Specific focus has been given to each factor and minute issued have been addressed in our discussion. It has been tried to give a comprehensive analysis of all the relevant ideas regarding this topic to make a reasonable discussion. The second topic given has been focused on the recent strategic stands taken by McDonalds. It has been asked to identify the pros and cons related to these strategies. The discussion has been done to create a comprehensive commentary about the pros and cons of each strategy. Every strategy has been evaluated on the basis of their individual merits. The subjects are quite sensitive and have specific implications to the business of McDonalds. in order to identify advantages and disadvantages each strategy has been clearly scrutinized. It has been tried to provide valid and reasonable remarks about these strategies. At the end, some relevant ideas have been presented to provide a more understandings of these issues. The entire report has been done with a reasonable understanding about the issues in question and all other factors relevant to the study. Introduction This study has been done to provide a reasonable understanding about business policy and strategic management development. McDonalds Corporation (NYSE: MCD) is known as the worlds largest chain of fast-food restaurants, serving approximately 47 million customers daily. Once it was the largest global restaurant chain, but it has since been exceeded by multi-brand operator Yum! Brands (KFC, Taco Bell and others) and sandwich chain Subway. Every McDonalds restaurant is run by a franchisee, an affiliate, or the corporation itself. Its revenues come from the rent, royalties and fees paid by the franchisees. It also earns form sales in company-operated restaurants. From the accounting records we can see that McDonalds revenues grew 27% over the three years ending in 2007 to $22.8 billion, and 9% growth in operating income to $3.9 billion. Generally McDonalds sells hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken products, French Fries, breakfast items, soft drinks, milkshakes, and desserts. Now-a-days, in order to respond to the obesity trends in western nations and in the face of criticism over the healthiness of its products, the company has modified its menu to include such healthier alternatives as salads, wraps and fruit. McDonalds began its business in 1940, with a restaurant opened by brothers Dick and Mac McDonald in San Bernardino, California. They have introduced the Speedee Service System in 1948, which established the principles of the modern fast-food restaurant. A man with a chefs hat on top of a hamburger shaped head was the original mascot of McDonalds. The name mascot was Speedee. Ronald McDonald replaced Speedee in 1967 when the company first filed a U.S. trademark on a clown shaped man having a puffed out costume legs. McDonalds opened its first restaurant in the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, France, El Salvador and Sweden in order of openings. Objective of the report: This report is prepared to gain a broad idea about business strategy formulation and evaluation of these strategies. It is also done to understand the different influences the environmental factors have on the operations of a Multination Corporation. Major objectives of the report are to: Provide a conclusive idea about business environment of McDonalds Understand the impacts and implications of changing environmental factors Gain reasonable perception about strategy formulation Achieve realistic insights about strategy evaluation Attain a thorough knowledge about pointing out the pros and cons of different strategies Methodology of the Report The research methodology is the complete techniques that we will follow to conduct the research. So, we can describe the methodology in the following steps: Data Collection Present information was collected from two sources: Primary Source: Primary data of this report was collected by means of questioning of McDonalds employees and operational managers. Secondary Source As secondary source I adopt some text book on Marketing, Management and also some websites. Data Collection Method Observation: Since the report was descriptive in nature data being analyzed conceptually. Limitations: The field level survey was missing in some areas of our study due to some practical constrains. Question 1: Environmental factors impacting upon McDonalds: As a leading fast food restaurant in the world, environmental factors in different countries are crucial considerations for McDonalds. Following discussion focuses on the environmental issues of relevant to the business of the firm. General environmental factors impacting on a corporations business: If generalization is used, for a multinational corporation, following factors can be identified as major issues: Demographic Geographic Economic Socio-cultural Technological Political-legal These factors have serious implications for any Multinational company. Detailed discussions of these factors are given below: 1. Demographic environment: Demographic environment, which can be defined as the environment consisting of factors related to age, sex, gender, education level, marital status, occupation, religion, birth and death rate, average size of the family, average age of marriage etc. of a specific populace of a specific region, is the most important feature that may impact the business of the firm. As it is a Multinational corporation, the impact of demographic environment on McDonalds can be examined on regional basis. United States of America: United States is the birth place of McDonalds. Basically it is the birth pace of Fast Food culture. The people of United States of America love to enjoy their meal and the idea of fast food have been a turning point of their life style. From the demographic aspect of the region, we can point out the following issues: United States has one of the highest population growth rates among the industrialized nations. So it generally indicates the development of a large market for the corporations. 45% of the children under 5 years old belong to the minority groups of the populace. Hispanic population increased by 14%. McDonalds has been developing its menu to target this population. According to U.S. census Bureau News 2006 studies, the average income of Americans is around $46000. One of the main reasons of increase in McDonalds sales in US is the introduction of Asian Chicken Salad, which indicates importance of Minority groups in US market. Different minority groups are emerging as the economically significant groups. For example, Asians as a minority group has an average income of around $57500 which is well above the average income of Americans. So focusing business on the basis of these kinds of developments may prove fruitful in the future. Around 81% of the populace lives in urban areas where drive-through system is one of the most popular systems of getting easy meals. Europe Europeans are getting more and more interested in having quick meals from fast food shops, as their hectic lifestyles suit this mechanism. Though the sales of McDonalds dropped 14 percent, the expansionary plans of McDonalds reflects the significance of this Market. Following ideas emerged from our analysis: Demographic behavior has changed drastically in Europe. General fertility rate is below the replacement rate in many countries of the region. But a new pattern, described as a `second demographic transition have emerged, as age of first marriage and first child has changed. These changes in behaviors culminated to an increase in population growth. On average, population growth increased somewhat in the region. In European Market, McDonalds stores enjoy more customer visits and highest company-operated margin since 2001. This may be attributed to increased population and changing trends of food habits towards fast foods. Gender differences have been reduced dramatically. Economically solvent mothers are spending much to provide best quality products for their children. For this reason, McDonalds introduced R Gym to enhance children customer base. Asia pacific and Middle East: This is the region where McDonalds has the highest possibility of exponential growth due to demographic as well as socio-cultural and economic changes. Demographic factors can be specified in following manner: Countries like China and India, with high population growth rates, are considered as emerging markets for fast food industries. In order to capture the expanding markets in China and India, McDonalds has increased its outlets in both of these markets. Income of the people of this region has been increasing gradually over time, which indicates people having more spending power. Middle Eastern regions are considered as one of the wealthiest regions of the planet. Population growth is also relatively high in this region compared to the industrialized countries. Migration trend towards urban areas is a major factor to consider for Corporations like McDonalds. Latin America Although regarded as one of the poorest regions of the world, this market has been changing its economic and socio-cultural patterns to become one of the lucrative markets. According to 2005 statistics the population of South and Central America is 588 million. The population growth is about 0.6%. This is quite significant information as it indicates a big market for fast food industry. Due to the low income and economic inequality, Latin American market is still not a big revenue source for McDonalds. Different ethnic groups with diverse cultures are prominent features of this region. Economic inequality is dominant in this region. According to World Bank reports, approximately 25% people live less than $2 a day. Huge amount of people live in rural areas, or under developed areas in the cities. Migration rate to the cities is increasing day by day. The following diagram depicts the importance of each regional segment for McDonalds based on sales revenues. Source: http://internationaltrade.suite101.com/article.cfm/mcdonalds_global_sales [Visited on 23/12/2009] Figure 1: McDonalds regional sales revenue. 2. Geographic Environment: Geographic factors that may affect the business of McDonalds can be pointed out in the following discussion: The distribution points of McDonalds are vital considerations as it is involved in a business which requires easy accessibility for the customers. So locations of the distribution centers should be close to populated areas. Some of the McDonalds stores are connected to gas station or convenient stores to target the shoppers. McExpress are shops having limited seating arrangements, located in shopping malls. In its mission statement, McDonalds vowed to provide services in the best possible means. This requires quick and correct service. So, warehouses for the raw materials should be located in the strategic places for easy transfer. Geographic segmentation is very important for McDonalds. As fast food culture is mainly the trend in cities and urban areas, the strategic establishment of distribution points are needed. McDonalds have locations in Disney Theme parks and Ocean Park. This strategy helps to increase sales promotion and expand customer base among the visitors of the theme parks. Competition is anther driving issue for McDonalds to choose the locations of its business carefully. McDonalds may choose a location where it will get a strategic advantage. To have a competitive advantage it introduced locations in Wal-Mart stores. To target trackers and travelers, McDonalds has developed McShop, which may have services found at truck stops. 3. Economic Factors: Many economic factors may affect the operations of McDonalds. These economic factors are identified in the following discussion: The economic cycle of different countries may affect the revenue generation of McDonalds. But as the business seems well diversified, the effects may be nullified to a negligible extent. In 2006, McDonalds global sales rose 5.8% from the previous year. Sales margin improved in all geographic locations. McDonalds has a large amount of long term debt of about $8 billion. So, changes in interest rates or tax policies of the government may affect favorably or adversely. The exchange value of dollar against other currencies may affect the profitability of McDonalds. As it is operating in different regions, so it may consider the exchange rates differentiations of different currencies. There may be some possibilities that inflation rate may adversely affect the business of McDonalds. Increase in inflation rate may cause the price of raw materials to rise. This may also drive the customers away from the restaurants. Income level of the general people varies with the economic condition of the nation. So, in the times of recession, economic conditions may adversely affect the purchasing power of people, thus affecting the business of McDonalds. McDonalds operating earnings, earnings per share and overall revenue increased 15%, 17% and 10% respectively. It also announced dividend at the rate of $1 in year 2002 per share. This indicates 276% increase of dividend payout from the period of 2002. These numbers reflect economically a strong position for McDonalds. 4. Socio-cultural Factors: Every corporation should analyze the important socio-cultural factors relevant to their business. Such relevant factor regarding socio-cultural environment of McDonalds are discussed below. The healthy lifestyle trend has become a global phenomenon in recent days. McDonalds must consider this to maintain a competitive position in the market. McDonalds Healthy Lifestyle programs attracted health conscious people. It has become worlds first fast food service restaurant to provide nutritional information on majority of its food packaging. As women are becoming more independent and families are becoming smaller and smaller, fast foods are growing in their popularity. Eating home cooked meals are becoming a luxury in the fast paced unban lifestyles. So, restaurants are gaining momentum in their businesses. McDonalds operated in different regions of the world. In order to maintain its profitability it must keep track of regional cultural and sociological changes. For example, increased migratory trends towards cities in developing nations can be an advantageous sign for McDonalds. McDonalds needs to be aware of local trends in different regions. For instance, by presenting French Fries as vegetarian food, McDonalds had to pay a hefty price as fines in 2002. McDonalds has introduced R Gyms, a form of interactive game zones, designed for children aged 4 to 11. To emphasize on physical activity, they are equipped with stationary bicycles attached to video games, dance pads, basketball hoops, monkey bars, an obstacle course, and other games. It has introduced a new slogan to its recruitment posters: Not bad for a McJob, to encourage employees to be related with McDonalds. McDonalds jobs have been regarded as of low pay, just above the legal provision, required little skill and little job security. It has been trying to improve the conditions 5. Technological Factors: To maintain a competitive edge against the rival companies, McDonalds must be aware of the recent technologies and innovations. New and improved technologies can reduce the man power needed in processing the food thus reducing the labor related costs. New innovations can help McDonalds to create more environment friendly operating systems which will help them to reduce their carbon footprint in the world. To tackle environmental issues, McDonalds has incorporated technology into its business. McDonalds has started using corn-based bio-plastic to produce containers for some of their products. Innovative technologies can also help to reduce the levels of processing and contamination due to human interactions with the food processing functions. It may also help to reduce energy consumption thus reducing the actual cost of serving the customers. In Europe, it has started recycling vegetable grease to use it as fuel for its trucks. In 2000, it has opened a restaurant in Sweden which was the first to intentionally incorporate green ideas. 6. Political- Legal Factors: Political structure of a nation and the ideology of political parties need to be carefully assessed to run business on that states. Confiscation, domestication, tax control, exchange control, interfere of government on business operations are common in global business. Following factors may be taken into considerations about the political and legal factors: Stable political situations are always important incase of operating businesses in different regions of the world. Government policies, tax policies, regional cooperation policies etc. may affect the operations of McDonalds. Law regarding the business operations, legal suits and other legal obligations may influence the business of McDonalds. McDonalds has been involved with number of legal cases, mostly concerning with trademark. Some social cases like, The McDonalds Coffee Case in 1994, hampered the public image of McDonalds. Question2: Evaluation of current strategies in use: McDonalds has been taken some specific steps to enhance the profitability of the corporation. From the perspective of its performance and future potentiality evaluation, these strategies can be critically examined. The strategies chosen by McDonalds are assessed in the following discussion: SWOT strategies: McDonalds has chosen these strategies based on their SWOT analysis. These strategies may have some advantages and disadvantages. SO strategies: These strategies are taken in line with the strength of McDonalds and on the basis of the opportunities the firm has within its arena of operations. The firm has chosen the following strategies: 1. Expanding into Chinese market: McDonalds is thinking of expanding its Chinese market via increased advertising and numbers of outlets. This strategy can have some merits for McDonalds operations. Advantages: Chinese market is a growing market for McDonalds. The population of China is increasing rapidly and the demand for fast food is also growing at a good pace. By developing a good market in China may prove valuable for McDonalds as it has a potential for good return in future. Drive-through system is gaining popularity in china as number of car owners are increasing. This is a very good indication for McDonalds to provide this kind of services in increased number of locations. McDonalds has a brand name which is globally recognized. McDonalds can use this position of its brand name for its advantage. In China, it would be much easier for McDonalds to advertise as it has an easily recognizable brand name. In order to increase the market share, McDonalds must increase its advertising in China. It has to compete against already established quick service providers like Yum Brands. Increased advertising will enable it to capture new markets in China as well as enhance brand exposure. Increased numbers of the restaurant locations in China will provide easy accessibility to the customers. As the number of consumers is increasing the number of locations must be increased in order to meet the current demand. This strategy may pose some disadvantages for McDonalds. Disadvantages: Increased number of advertisements means increased costs. This means less revenue will be off settled by increased operating cost. As McDonalds operates its business on the basis of franchising, increased number of locations may mean lesser amount of control over its operations. In its mission statement it states to be the best quick service provider. Increased number of locations may cause McDonalds to hire employees who are not competent enough to provide good services. It may also force McDonalds to increase training costs. Quality control may not easily be done if numbers of restaurant locations are increased. Although this strategy may have some potential demerits, this strategy is a very good step for McDonalds. Chinese market is becoming the fastest growing market and McDonalds need to enhance its market share in China in order to ensure its sustainability as one of the leading quick service provider in the world. 2. Acquiring Krispy Kreme Corporation McDonalds has taken a strategic choice to integrate horizontally by taking over Krispy Kreme Corporation, which is at the verge of going bankrupt. This strategic decision may have some good implications for McDonalds. Advantages: By expanding horizontally it will be able to outreach more customers with more ease. As Krispy Kreme Corporation is at the verge of bankruptcy, it will be easier of McDonalds to acquire this company without substantial financial implications. Krispy Kreme Corporation may willing be merged with McDonalds without showing any hostility towards the acquiring company. McDonalds should be able to use the existing infrastructure of the Krispy Kreme Corporation in order to conduct its business. Loyal customers of the Krispy Kreme Corporation may still be with this company after the acquisition. This way McDonalds may be able to acquire a new customer base. Acquiring Krispy Kreme Corporation will put McDonalds in a competitively advantageous position. This will mean less competition for McDonalds and infrastructure and customer base development. This strategy may have some potential disadvantages as follows: Disadvantages: There is a chance that Krispy Kreme Corporation may not be willing to merge with McDonalds. This may force it to take strategies against the acquisition. If acquisition happens in this situation, then McDonalds will be in a disadvantageous position. The customer base of the Krispy Kreme Corporation may not support this acquisition. This may drive them away and reduce the benefits of this acquisition. There is a potential of dilution of control and profit of the shareholder in case of this acquisition. For this reason McDonalds may change the top management of Krispy Kreme Corporation. This may affect the whole operations of Krispy Kreme as new management may have a different style of running the business. By comparing the disadvantage with the advantages, we can easily say that the disadvantageous situations may occur in highly probabilistic circumstances, which make those less potent. So this strategy may prove profitable for McDonalds. WO Strategies: These strategies are taken on the basis of the analysis of the weaknesses and existing opportunities of McDonalds. The firm has chosen the following strategy: 1. Menu development: McDonalds has chosen to develop its menu based on healthy lifestyle trends. It is also thinking of introducing Hispanic food lines. This strategy may have following advantages: Advantages: Providing healthy foods may increase the customer base of McDonalds as there is a global trend of shifting to this kinds of foods now-a-days. Increased Hispanic population forced McDonalds to focus on this group. By creating Hispanic food line, McDonalds may be able to capture a more diverse and wide customer base. There is a bad name of fast food of being unhealthy. By providing more healthy food, McDonalds may be able to change this perception which may be a competitive advantage for McDonalds. There may have some disadvantages of this strategy. Disadvantages: This strategy may cost McDonalds more as it requires more investment from McDonalds part. The new product lines for Hispanic population may not be successful or needs more time to be successful. Focusing on Hispanic population may be frowned upon as being a racially motivated strategy. In order to capture the market and be in line with the global trend, McDonalds need this strategy to be implemented. ST Strategies: McDonalds Corporation also has some strategies based on its strength and potential threat analysis. These strategies are discussed below. 1. Increase number of restaurants located in theme parks: McDonalds is thinking of forward integrating by increasing the number of locations in the theme parks of Disney and Ocean Park. This strategy may have some pros and cons which have been identified in the following discussion: Advantages: By increasing the number of locations in the theme parks McDonalds can capture more of the customer base by providing more services. Mutual understanding between theme parks managements and MacDonalds may increase the brand exposure of McDonalds. By expanding the operations to the theme parks it can appeal to the children which may eventually lead to brand loyalty. Disadvantages: This strategy may increase the operational cost of McDonalds. Quality control may not be an easy proposition. More advertising may be needed in order to make all the locations popular. This strategy may be profitable for McDonalds in the long run and it may be recommended to be pursued by McDonalds. 2. Increase advertising of coffee line: McDonalds is trying to increase advertising of the coffee line in key markets like China and North America. This strategy may have some advantages for McDonalds. Advantages: By developing a market penetration strategy, McDonalds can increase coffee sales, which is one of the weak links of its operations. By increasing the advertising, it can acquire more customers in the morning time when the demand of coffee is highest. McDonalds can create an image of best quick service coffee provider by increasing the frequency of advertisements and providing customers with quality services. Disadvantages: It will increase the sales cost of McDonalds and reduce the profit. Increased advertising may prove fruitful if it can provide good services. But id it fails to live up to the mark then rival companies can take advantage of the situation. Increased advertisement for coffee line may prove fruitful for McDonalds as it has beaten its traditional rivals in coffee taste test according to consumer report. So this strategy is quite a good stand for McDonalds. WT Strategies: McDonalds has been thinking of taking some strategies based on its weaknesses and threats analysis in order to enhance its operational efficiency. Following discussion has been done to point out those strategies and some relevant issues about those strategies. 1. Develop the menu to keep up with the competition: McDonalds one of the main concern is lack of menu development. In order to appeal to the Asian and Latin American markets, it is thinking about menu development. Advantages: Creative menu development will appeal to growing markets like Asian and Latin American markets, which will increase its customer base. It may reduce the operational inefficiency and create more customer satisfaction Customer retention may increase as more options of food items are included in the menu. It will increase its profitability in the long run and create stronger customer base. It will help to capture the potentially profitable markets of Asia and Latina America. The underserved niche of the industry may be capture if creative menu developments occur. Disadvantages: Cost of product development and market survey may increase, which will reduce the profit of the company. New products may fail to appeal to the targeted customer segment, which will result in operational loss. New product development may need new kinds of technologies or raw materials, which will increase capital expenditures of McDonalds. This strategy may increase the profitability of McDonalds as new customers are induced to buy its products. It will also increase the customer base and customer retention rate. 2. Redesign the website to make it more users friendly: Making the website more users friendly is another ploy of McDonalds to increase its efficiency. The advantages and disadvantages of this strategy is discussed below. Advantages: Redesigning the website will increase the knowledge of the customers about McDonalds and its products. Internet is one of the best possible ways to advertise the products of any corporation. Revamping the website may increase its potential customer base by providing them with best possible information. Creating a user friendly website may increase the customer satisfaction. Disadvantages: This strategy may reduce the profit of the organization for the time being, but this may increase capital expenditure of the company. Creating a user friendly website requires expert handling of information. If it is not done efficiently, then it will prove worthless for the Company. The strategy of improving its website can be a fruitful ploy for McDonalds if it is done efficiently. 3. Increasing sales promotion and advertising: Increasing the amount of sales promotion and advertising in key markets to increase consumer awareness of the products is an important strategy for McDonalds. The pros and cons of this strategy are discussed below. Advantages: This will increase the consumer awareness of the products and services of McDonalds. This may also increase the number of customers of the company. This may help McDonalds to capture customers from its rivals if it is done efficiently and effectively. This will also help to gain a competitive advantage in key markets. Disadvantages: Increased cost for McDonalds will offset the profits. Increasing advertising and sales promotion is the best possible way for McDonalds to increase its customer base. Recommendation Following recommendations can be

An Exposition of Amos 5

An Exposition of Amos 5 With a view to an audience within a stated contemporary ministry setting, provide an exposition of Amos 5 As I engage to expound the book of Amos I would want to do an exposition of Amos 5 which with a view of a mixed Audience of men and women between the ages of 20 to 50 years of age and also young people who most of them are under the age of 20 years. The audience is a mixture of different nationalities that have different cultural background. According to Hasting (1963:28) writing in the dictionary of the bible, he says that Amos was one of the earliest prophets who prophesied in the 8th century B.C. Amos is known to have come from Tekoa and according to the dictionary of the bible, he prophesied when Israel and Judah were strong and prosperous. Though there was prosperity in Judah and Israel the book of Amos portrayed a lot of injustice taking place during that period. In (chapter 4) of Amos and verse (1) it talks of how the poor are oppressed and they are crushed. (Amos 1:1) The words of Amos, one of the shepherds of Tekoa-the vision he saw concerning Israel two years before the earthquake, when Uzziah was king of Judah and Jeroboam son of Jehoash[a] was king of Israel. According to this verse, it makes us understand that Amos was a shepherd, and also understand that Amos may not be the one who wrote the book;(Thorogood 1992:10) cites that, the book of Amos is a collection of the Prophets words. We cannot be certain who actually wrote it, or when it was written. When we come to chapter 5 of Amos it can be hard trying to understand what specifically he is trying to address when he talks of a virgin Israel in verses 2. It is hard to interpret the book without first having understood some of the things that Amos is saying, for example, where he says, This is what the Lord says to Israel: Seek me and live; do not seek Bethel, do not go to Gilgal, do not journey to Beersheba. For Gilgal will surely go into exile, and Bethel will be reduced to nothing (vs. 4-5). Not knowing what Bethel, Gilgal and also Beersheba means one can not interpret what he was implying. Patte (2004:282) makes us understand that Bethel, Gilgal, and Beersheba were sacred places because they were memorials connected to the ancestors and history of the conquest of the land without having this knowledge it is a hard one to understand. The writings of Amos are regarded as Oracles, this is highlighted by Heaton(1977:73 ) Amos cultivate d the practice of embodying in his oracles quotations of his opponents claims. So this is to affirm that Amos was writing oracles. Wolff (1977) in his book of Joel and Amos cites that the literary tradition hardly allows us to recognize more than two dozen short individual oracles, so he is implying that Amoss writing was literal and he cites three basic type of speech found in the book of Amos (i) The messenger speech which he says that it is tied to what Amos was told to say by God. (ii) The free speech witness speech, this he says promotes relationship with the listener. (iii) Vision report, that one he says that it cannot be said with certainty whether is rhetorical or literary in Origin. When Amos is starting to speak the oracles he is using within and in front the text where he is addressing the children of Israel and tells them in verses 1-7 to hear what the Lord is saying and what will happen to them. As Amos is speaking in chapter 5:1-3, he regards the children of Israel as people who are already dead, and is lamenting over their state and seems there no hope for them when he says, Fallen and no more to rise. He compares them to a virgin woman engaged but now she has been forsaken. So he uses metaphor when he is addressing them. This may mean that Israel is glorious but their glory is gone. In verse 4-10 it is a call for them to call God even in their crisis, it is surprising that in the beginning, he speaks to them; It portrays them as people who have been utterly destroyed and no hope to rise again. In verses 4 he tells them to seek the Lord and live. On the other hand, he tells them, what not to seek Bethel and not to enter Gilgal or cross over to Beersheba fo r there are consequences when they do that. Marsh (1959:53) gives the meaning of the word seek and he says the word translated seek originally meant to ask for an oracle from some diviner, and then to offer worship and obedience to God. Applying this few verses as I address my audience bearing in mind the state of the nation that we are in where there have been a crisis in the economy and a lot of cuts in so many sectors that some services that the government used to offer are not longer there, I would bring to their attention to how the nation has declined and probably try to mention, maybe is because of the evil that is done in the nation. I would also encourage them to seek the Lord and not to put their trust in the systems, as Amos was encouraging the children of Israel to seek God and not seek the sacred places. When Amos is warning the people not to seek Bethel or go to Gilgal and having now understood that Gilgal was a sacred place as cited by Patte(2004:282), he is encourag ing them to worship the true God rather than go and worship those sacred places whereby even if they are sacred places they are not God themselves. I would, therefore, encourage my audience to worship the true God rather than men, bearing in mind that most of my audience are from African background where there is a tendency of worshiping the men of God. In verses (10 Amos talks of people hating correction or rather discipline and hate he who tells the truth. So I as address my audience I would encourage them to speak the truth and allow themselves to be corrected by the word of the Lord. Since my audience is a mixture of young people who most of them are under the care of their parents I encouraged them to adhere to discipline and obey their parents.[G1] In (verses 11-12) Amos talks of how the poor are oppressed, and he tells them because they have done these things and even extracted wheat unjustly from them even the house they have built they will not live in them. Amos was pronouncing judgment. As I bring this to my audience I would speak to them, warning them not to oppress each other and especially the old oppressing the young even on those who are married, men not to oppress women. I would speak to men oppressing women with confidence having some background knowledge how African women at times are regarded as not equal to their men and they tend to be oppressed. Amos changes his tone in verses 14 and he gives the people hope that if they seek the Lord they will live. What I see when I look at the previous (verses 12 and 13) he is telling them to stop oppressing the poor and they will live. So I would tell the audience that, when we are doing injustice to one another we are not seeking God, and God is not with us because after A mos telling the Israelite how they have oppressed the poor he tells them to seek the Lord in order for them to live. Amos here was like implying that God was not with the Israelite because they were oppressing the poor. Amos follows verses 14 with verse 15 by saying that they should hate evil, and my understanding I will interpret that not rendering injustice and oppressing the poor is what God hates. As a result of them hating evil, they will escape the calamity that Amos is speaking in (verses 16) which he says there will be wailing as the Lord passes across the land. The Israelite will understand the in a better way when they remember what happened while they were escaping Egypt when there was wailing in the camp of the Egyptians. Amos is saying that the wailing will be so great that, they will even call for people to help them to wail. As I would address my audience I would focus them on treating each other well and not oppressing others, this is because loving God is loving and treating other people justly, we cant say we love God and yet you treat others badly and oppress them. According to Patte(2004:282) in the commentary, he says that The horizontal relationship to neighbors is inseparably bound to the vertical relationship with God. To avoid punishment from God we have to love God and treat people well. Though God had sworn of bringing destruction we see in (verses 15) that he will leave some from the remnant of Joseph may be the ones who will carry on his purpose on the earth. This reminds me the day of Noah where he had to destroy everything apart from Noahs family. Amos in verse 17 is using literal language that he is going to pass through them and their vineyard will be wailing. This may not mean that God is the one who is going to pass the land himself; but may be the adversary. As I share this verse I may bring to the attention of my audience that the Lord may not necessary come to punish our wrong doing but things might happen when we dont live according to what the Lord has expected of us. In Verses 18 he is warning those who have been waiting for the day of the lord, may be expecting a reward, and instead he is telling them it will be darkness instead of lights. In other words, things will be so bad instead of being good and this is as a result of their actions. Most Probably they Children of Israel have been expecting God to come and reward them and have victory among their enemies. Thorogood(1992) in his book a guide to Amos commented that Amos did not share hope with the Israelites instead he predicted a day of darkness instead of light. Even in our day, we might be expecting great things from God because we believe in him, and instead, we find ourselves going through difficult times. Therefore it is important to check our ways and see whether there are people we are oppressing or doing things that cannot please God. Maybe the children of Israel thought because they have a covenant relationship with God, they can do anything and God turns a blind eye. Amos portraye d the day of the Lord they have been expecting a very gloomy day, in that they will be running from one problem thinking they have escaped they find themselves in another major problem. Amos uses allegory a lot; as he writes when he is talking about a lion, a bear, and even a serpent. Maybe he using this because for him being a shepherd has had encountered all these animals. If I were to use allegory I would use things that my audience would understand. In verses, 21-24 Amos is narrating how the Lord is not pleased by the sacrifices that they offer unto him and even their worship unto God. He said if justice and righteousness are not found in them, their rituals are in vain. Maybe they thought by observing the rituals and offering sacrifices they will please God even if they oppress the poor and put heavy taxes on them. I would also address the same issue to my audience that it is not by how much we do for God, or how much money we give to the Him; is about acting according to what he requires. Marsh (1959:57) as he comments on verses 21-24 cites that Israel had all externals of true religion-fine churches and cathedrals, great festivals popularly observed (everyone went to church on such days, moving rituals solemnly impressive sacrifices, beautiful music, and well-trained choirs. But such externals do not, of themselves, beget communion with God. In other words, outward rituals and appearance do not appeal to God. We must go beyond rituals and do what God want us to do. In verses, 25 Amos is like narrating what God is asking Israelites that they never offered him any sacrifices and that they carried idols with them. It is like he is saying that while they were not established they didnt offer any sacrifice to God and yet he took care of them. But now that God has established them the wont honor him, instead, he is saying they carried idols with them. Having an audience who some of them have come from hardship I would bring to their attention to remember wher e God has brought them from, some from great hardship and yet God has established them. I would encourage them to honor God and keep his commands. Amos has mentioned two things they carried which are sikkuth their king, and chiun their idols which according to Wintle (2015:1146) commenting in South Asia Bible commentary refers to these idols that the Israelites carried as Assyrian deities. This shows as if the Israelites regarded other gods more than the true God. They were holding unto what they may be; thought is the righteous way than do what God had instructed them to do. As we read these verses today we would also ask ourselves as Christians are we exalting things in our lives more than we exalt the Lord, and this can be true even in the audience I am addressing, in that some many have valued their jobs, families children or as a people we regard rituals more than we regard God. In conclusion, as I have looked at the book of Amos chapter 5 I can conclude and say that this chapter can speak to us as the church of today that we need to deal with injustices in our society and live righteous lives, and that will be a true worship unto God. Amos has reminded us the need of humility in our worship. Thorogood 1992:66) says that the closer our worship is linked with the rest of-of our life the more helpful it is likely to be, This means that we need to be conscious every time, that we have a relationship with God; and we can worship him anytime not only when we are gathered together. As Amos highlighted the injustices and oppression done to the poor by the children of Israel we also need to learn as Christians to treat each other well even when we are in different social status. Bibliography D.D, J. H. (1963). Dictionary of the Bible. Edinburgh: T.and T Clark. Heaton, E. W. (1977). The Old Testament Prophets. London: Anchor Brendon Ltd. Marsh, J. (1959). The Torch Bible Commentary series: Amos And Micah. Great Britain: Northumberland Press Limited. Patte, D. (2004). Global Bible Commentary. Nashville: Abingdon Press. Thorogood, B. (1992). A Guide to Amos. London: Spck. Wintle, B. (2015). South Asia Bible Commentary, One Volume Commentary on the whole Bible. Michigan: Grand Rapids, Michigan. Wolf, H. W. (1977). Hermancia, Joel, and Amos. United Kingdom: Fortress Press [G1]Deleted:h

Steve Wozniak Essay -- essays research papers

Steve Wozniak's childhood had a big effect on his revolutionary developments in the computer world. Wozniak grew up in Sunnyvale California. His family lived in a development built for Lockheed engineers like his father. (Rose, 26) As a teenager he w During his high school years, Wozniak was a prankster and was once suspended for placing a metronome disguised as a bomb in a friends locker. (Brodhagen, 1) The more serious side of Wozniak loved electronics and spent one day a week working at Sylvania Electronics, where Wozniak's love for computers grew. Wozniak was working with electronics from an early age. In 1962 Wozniak built a calculator using a few electronic components and entered it in a local science fair. (Brodhagen, 1) It won him a prize. In 1971 Wozniak and his friend Bill Fernandez built a computer in FernandezÕs garage. (Rose,25-26) They called it t Wozniak decided to go the University of California at Berkeley after he returned from C! olorado State. While he was there, his mother sent him an article about a mysterious person who called himself ÒCaptain Crunch.Ó (Rose, 27) Crunch would build electronic boxes, known as blue boxes, that mimicked the tones governing telephone company switching equipment. This allowed him to make free long distance phone calls. Apparently Crunch was the leader of an underground group who called themselves the Òphone phreaks.Ó They would use technology to get what they wanted, but they wope by staying one step ahead of the police. Wozniak was extremely interested and called his friend from high school, Steven Jobs. (Rose, 27) They decided to go into business selling them. Wozniak managed to make one which only used forty dollars worth of parts, instead of the 1,500 dollars it cost Captain Crunch. Wozniak and Jobs then went to college campuses and sold them to dorms for 150 dollars and up. Wozniak became obsessed with ÒphreakingÓ and almost forgot about school. This is! the first example of WozniakÕs In 1975 personal computers became a reality. The Altair 8800 was released. (Rose, 31) It was a computer kit. It came with all the pieces that were needed to build it, and it was then assembled by the consumer who bought it. It was really designed for computer hobbyists, who loved the fact that they were able to build it. It had its down side though. Once it was assembled, there wasnÕt much that it could do. The... ...nd something that the consumer would buy. Wozniak changed the computer industry because once he made his computer and Steve WozniakÕs prankster nature changed the world for ever. Since he tended not to listen to what people say, he didnÕt get discouraged when people told him he was wrong or that he would fail. He just kept on working. The result of all his work was that the personal computer became a reality. He is one of the greatest men alive. His work effects tens-of-millions of people every In researching this paper I looked in a recent MacMall (a mail order catalog that specializes in selling Apple products) and there were twelve different computers made by Apple. Ranging in price from 499.99 dollars to 4,199 dollars and from ! one that will fit in your pocket to one that will cover your whole desk. Apple also had a wide range of printers, scanners, drives and monitors. In my phone interview with Jim Harper he summed it up this way: ÒSince 1984 Apple has sold twenty-six million Macintoshes. The Macintosh in your home is more powerful and faster than the computer that put the man on the moon. It all started back in 1976 with Steve WozniakÕs Apple I.Ó Performa User $Ú &

Dutch vs. American Euthanasia Essay examples -- Euthanasia Physician A

Dutch vs. American Euthanasia      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Dutch take their euthanasia seriously. The Dutch government has resubmitted its proposal for formally legalizing assisted suicide and euthanasia, while modifying its controversial provision allowing euthanasia for children. When first proposed to Parliament over a year ago, the bill allowed for cases where children from 12 to 16 years old could request and receive euthanasia "against the wishes of their parents." The modified proposal still allows child euthanasia in this age group, but not over parents' objections [New York Times, 7/14/00]. Still unclear is the fate of another controversial feature of the original bill, allowing adults to sign advance directives requesting euthanasia in the event of future mental incompetency. This would allow legal euthanasia for patients with dementia or Alzheimer's disease for the first time [Id., 6/20]. Dutch euthanasia practice has long included lethal injections for children, including newborn infants, with parental co nsent. Euthanasia for kids - a bit extreme?    Numerous US studies have established that the Americans most directly affected by the issue of physician-assisted suicide -- those who are frail, elderly and suffering from terminal illness -- are also more opposed to legalizing the practice than others are:    * A poll conducted for the Washington Post on March 22-26, 1996, found 50% support for legalizing physician-assisted suicide (Washington A18) Voters aged 35-44 supported legalization, 57% to 33%. But these figures reversed for voters aged 65 and older, who opposed legalization 54% to 38%. Majority opposition was also found among those with incomes under $15,000 (54%), and black Americans (70%).    * An A... ...e: attitudes and experiences of oncology patients, oncologists, and the public." 347 The Lancet 1805 (June 29, 1996):1809    Humphry, Derek. "What's in a word?" Euthanasia Research & Guidance Organization 1993, Table 1-A.    Koenig, Dr. Harold et al.. "Attitudes of Elderly Patients and their Families Toward Physician-Assisted Suicide." 156 Archives of Internal Medicine 2240 (Oct. 28, 1996)    Lee v. Oregon, 891 F.Supp. 1429 (D. Or. 1995), vacated on other grounds, 107 F.3d 1382 (9th Cir. 1997), cert. denied, 118 S. Ct. 328 (1997).    "Poll Shows More Would Support Law Using Gentler Language," TimeLines (Jan.-Feb. 1994):9    Washington v. Glucksberg, 117 S. Ct. 2258, 2262 n. 7 (1997. -- -- --. 117 S. Ct. at 2272, quoting United States v. Rutherford, 442 U.S. 544, 558. 1979.    Washington Post, April 4, 1996.      

Self-Concept :: Psychology, Gender Difference

Before stepping onto the topic of the way we see ourselves, we first have to try to fully understand the definition of self-concept. The classification of self-concept is defined in many different ways by various researchers and practitioners over years. According to Purkey and William (1988), the popularity and attention of self-concept has been raising since decades of ignorance. Self-concept is mainly regarded as the realisation of our own existence; who we are, what is our purpose and how we fit into the society. Self-concept can be defined in a very complex manner. For example, it can be explained as a cognitive representation of oneself that gives coherence and meaning to one’s experience, including one’s relations to other people. It organises past experiences and plays an important role in assisting us to recognise and interpret relevant stimuli in the social environment (Hewstone, Stroebe & Jonas, 2008). Nonetheless, self-concept can also be clarified as simple as a statement where Fromm (1956) describe as â€Å"life being aware of itself.† After understanding the notion self-concept, we then can proceed to use different approaches to search a suitable answer to the question of â€Å"Why do we ‘see’ ourselves in the way that we do?†. In an experiment done by Montemayor and Eisen (1977), children were studied and questioned for their existence. When the children in the experiment were asked â€Å"Who am I?†, the most common answer given are descriptive and are usually about their appearance. For example, â€Å"I have brown eyes, I have brown hair and et cetera†. Children tend to mainly focus on the description of physical features of their body, address, procession and play activities; kids’ self-concept is more concrete as well as less abstract. In comparison, teenagers were observed and were asked the same question. As teenagers with wider knowledge of their existence, they will probably come up with more profound words and not only focus on the physical parts of body but somehow personal beliefs, motivation and interpersonal characteristics. For example, â€Å"I am a human being. I am a moody person, etc†. Consequently, adolescence’s answers seem to be more abstract but less c oncrete. By asking this question to both childhood and adolescence, significant increase can be seen in self-conceptions and categorised in followings: occupational rule; existential, individuating; ideological and belief reference; the sense of self- determination; the sense of unity; interpersonal style; and physical style (Montemayor & Eisen, 1977). The experiment has proven that aging does massively affect the way of seeing ourselves in everyone.

Master-Slave Dialectic Hegel and Fanon Views

Name: Instructor: Course: Date: Master slave relationship and dialectic Fanon – Black Skin White Masks Black Skin and  Hegel Self Consciousness â€Å"In this experience self-consciousness learns that life is essential to it as pure self-consciousness. One (self-consciousness) is self-sufficient; for it, its essence is being-for-itself. The other is non-self-sufficient, for it, life, that is, being for an other, is the essence. The former is the master, the latter is the servant† (Hegel 189).Hegel suggests in the dialectic that there is coherence between subject and object, concrete and abstract, part and whole, and for the purpose of dialectic, master and slave. Hegel believes that â€Å"master† is a â€Å"consciousness. † The consciousness defines itself in mutual relations to what is referred to as slave’s consciousness. This occurs in a process of mutual interdependence and mediation. Hegel uses his Phenomenology of Spirit to provide his unders tanding and exposition of master slave dialectic as an account of both the need of recognition and emergence of self-consciousness.Hegel’s line of thought and work plays a crucial role in Fanon’s exposition of the colonization by the Western. Fanon exposition focuses more on violence and race. Violence adds urgency, complicates and is driven by the need for recognition. An optimistic and promising moment lurks in Fanon’s Black Skin White Masks. The promising moment in Fanon’s work is articulated in a humanity characterization which also serves as an entry point into mutual recognition. The question to ask; is there any hope in reconciliation and coming to terms with the colonial situation between the white master and the black slave?How can we address the problem of mutual recognition in light of racism and violence? Frantz Fanon’s exposition is based on a context that analyzed being both similar and different from our own context. Fanon’s w ork is based on colonialism that has come to an end with effects which are still around. Colonization effects are witnessed in the existing unequal relationships between the former colonies and the West. Fanon’s work still carries much relevance when we reflect on the existing racism and persistence violence in most of the former African colonies.There is a reassessment of the current context when we revisit to reassess Fanon’s Black Skin, White Mask. Fanon attempted to explain how Hegel’s master slave dialectic is significant to the context of former colonies. Being a philosopher and a significant figure in idealism, Hegel reflects his most profound ideas in master slave dialectic that left a significant legacy. Hegel attempts to describe and conceptualize a process of recognition that leads to mutual recognition. According to Hegel’s exposition, proper recognition is achieved through mutual recognition of one consciousness agent and another conscious ag ent.Fanon reflects Hegel’s idea when he says â€Å"There one lies body to body, with one’s blackness or one’s whiteness in full narcissistic cry, each sealed into his own particularity – with, it is true, now and them a flash or so. It is this flash of â€Å"recognition† in its Hegelian sense with its transcendental, sublative spirit – that fails to ignite in the colonial relation where there is only narcissistic indifference† (Fanon 1986). Mutual recognition brings freedom between self and the other and acts as an agent in the attainment and development of own self-consciousness.The self-consciousness is the cognitive awareness of self and the relation to the other and the world in extension. â€Å"If the standpoint of consciousness, which is to say, the standpoint of knowing objective things to be opposed to itself and knowing itself to be opposed to them, counts as the other to science – if it is that the point where consci ousness is at one with itself is where it counts to an even greater degree at the loss of spirit† (Hegel 26). Domination has a central role to play according to Hegel’s master slave dialectic description of specific relations among humans.Domination results from the urge to be recognized in life midst as well as death struggle. Fanon took Hegel’s master slave dialectic in his critique of colonialism and West. Fanon states that dialectic is relevant and crucial to human relations among the colonies. Fanon critique focuses on dialectic based on violence and racism. Hegel’s Self Consciousness: Master and Slave Hegel’s Phenomenology of Spirit (1807) provides master slave dialectic that reflects his ideas on history course up to when he was writing his work. Hegel’s dialectic takes an analysis form of self-consciousness and its working. This pure concept of recognition, that is, the pure concept of the doubling of self-consciousness in its unity, is itself now up for examination in terms of how its process appears for self-consciousness† (Hegel 185). Hegel describes way in which self can become conscious of itself by presence and recognition of itself by an-other. Hegel’s exposition reveals how the process of self-consciousness takes place at the expense of the Other. The Other is negated the moment the self becomes conscious of itself, and declares itself as â€Å"I† and the Other is destroyed as an-other.The negation and destruction of the other results from the other becoming image and mirror of self. The image is the attempts and urge of self to overcome the other in order to achieve primary and essential being in the world. Self and other eventually enter into a phase of self-consciousness which results in an unequal relationship characterized by strict opposition. The self is determined to declare itself as ‘I’ and become conscious in the presence and influence form of an-other. The sel f is no longer considered as a thing or useless or objects among objects by the other.In order to achieve this, self must see and regard the other as an object or a thing, which is attained by annihilating and negating the other considering the other as a ‘self’ existing for itself. In his exposition, Hegel uses â€Å"maser and slave† relationship to demonstrate the process and working of the whole process of self-consciousness. According to Hegel, the master is used to refer to the consciousness existing for itself and which is mediated with itself but through another consciousness. Through this mediation, the master becomes an ‘I’, a being for itself.To become a master, the self-consciousness is experienced in the virtue of presence of an-other. The other now becomes slave. Hegel’s description of slave is the one who is the dependent consciousness and whose essential nature is just to live and to be for another. â€Å"How consciousness is i mmediately to be found and how it determines itself and its object at any given time, that is, how it exists for itself, depends on what it has already come to be, that is, on what it already is in itself† (Hegel 234).The master inextricably links the slave with objecthood and the slave is bound to being considered as a thing by the master. The master desires for the thing and that is the slave, desire to possess it but not to destroy. In addition, this desire is characterized with the urge by the master to transform the slave into something that belongs to the master, thus stripping the slave off its foreignness. Defining the slave (object or thing) or the other satisfies the desire of the master by representing master’s act of making the other the same as the self (master).The slave (other) is bound to nourish the master’s (self) desire to make the world its own. The self takes control by seizing power over the other and he decides what and who the thing (slave ) is. What is the opinion and nature of the thing according to self (master)? According to Hegel, the answer to this question according to master is simple: a thing is something merely negative. â€Å"as the positive, avoids looking at the negative, as is the case when we say of something that it is nothing or it is false, and then, being done with it, go off on our own way on to something else† (Hegel 32).The relationship between slave and master has an ironic effect in that the master achieves his recognition and desire through another consciousness. This implies that the self (master) becomes dependent on the thing for his own self-consciousness. Slave’s chains become those of the aster as well and as a consequence, the process creates a scenario where there is no manner of full freedom but a presence of mutual enslavement to the other. This means that the object’s meaning is constructed and determined by an-other, creating a situation of being-for-other.This gives the thing (slave) the self-consciousness that is able to affix its own meaning. Hegel’s treatment of recognition comes into a situation where the slave turns the table on the master by way of regarding the master as a thing, which happens after the slave regards himself as an object and not willing to be modified and transformed into an object. Fanon’s Black Skin, White Masks: White Master Black Slave Frantz Fanon analysis of the topic on recognition in his work Black Skin, White Masks reinterprets Hegel’s in term of race based on the relationship of black man and white settler, or white master and black slave.Fanon states; â€Å"Man is human only to the extent to which he tries to impose his existence on another man in order to be recognized by him† (Fanon 168). Through this statement, Fanon reveals various positive and negative things that can be discussed about recognition. Desire or need for one to be recognized is a human attribute where a hum an wants to be recognized. Fanon reveals that one is human if he is recognized as such. According to Fanon, it is negative when the extent of the imposition of a self’s existence on an-other becomes a measure of humanity, where one is human by ensuring that one imposes oneself on an-other without challenges.Fanon still qualifies the concept of humanity as a bond between self and an-other. Fanon said; â€Å"It is that other being, on recognition by that other being, that is his own human worth and reality depend. It is that other being in whom the meaning of life is condensed† (Fanon 169). A self becomes hums when an-other recognizes him as human, intertwining humanity with the other. This slightly contrasts with Hegelian stand that humanity only comes about in the consumption of the other due to the urge and desire for recognition. Fanon expresses Hegelian need or desire as an â€Å"open conflict between black and white.One day, the White Master, without conflict, rec ognized the Negro slave† (Fanon 169). The black slave does not measure to the standards of whiteness and this drives to the assertion of the white settlers as a master. Black slave’s image to the white settler is that of negative attributes based on humanity as the slave is regarded as â€Å"machine-animal-men to the supreme rank of men† (Fanon 171) who are partly human, partly animal, and completely a thing. Hegelian master slave dialectic turns from master to object where the master is now considered as an object and the results asserts its own subjectivity.The black slave turns towards the master abandoning the object and the master’s subjectivity is considered as his own desires. In Hegelian final analysis, the slave disallows the definition of itself by the object (master) as refuses to be considered as a thing and through this; the slave takes hold of its own meaning. The Hegelian slave now forms its independent self-consciousness and his situation b ecomes so radicle that the object (master) becomes dependent on the slave to enhance in upholding his own self-consciousness.Fanon’s slave in white master black slave is not so fortunate compared to Hegelian slave. Fanon’s slave remains in an unfavorable situation as he does not create himself and continues to be dependent on the white master for his own self-consciousness. In his work, Fanon states; â€Å"The inferiority of the colonized is the correlative to the European’s feeling of superiority†¦It is the racist who creates his inferior† (Fanon 69). This directs focus on the subject since the black slave wants to be regarded as an object and never wants to be considered as an object.In the gaze of the white master, the black slave is used as an instrument for the master to measure his superiority. Additionally, the black slave gives the master the ability to realize his subjective security, and in defining himself and the world. Lastly, the slave is â€Å"denied in terms of individuality and liberty† (Fanon 164). The Conflict and the Violence The situation between the white master- black slaves may result to a radical and bleak situation. The environment shapes the slave and the desire for subjectivity is not yet exhausted with all odds staked up against the slave.The situations force the slave to â€Å"have an indisputable complex of dependence on the white man† (Fanon 168). The black cannot remain in the place assigned to him, for he seeks to find an end to this. According to Fanon, this happens through conflict and violence. According to Fanon’s exposition, â€Å"human reality in-itself-for-itself can be achieved only through the risk that conflict implies† (Fanon 170). Conflict becomes a central feature in humanity and human reality if there is a desire for one to be transformed from being an object to a subject.This in turn facilitates an entry to self-consciousness. Pursuit of subjectivity b y the black slave threatens the life of the master as Fanon puts it, â€Å"self-consciousness accepts the risk of its life, and consequently it threatens the other in his physical being† (Fanon 169). The desire for slave subjectivity implies that the slave wants to make himself recognized by virtue of his own agency, and he wants to assign meaning to himself as he desires. The slave no longer desires to be considered as a mere thing.Hegel gives a clear articulation of the Black slave’s desire for subjectivity when he states that freedom exists only because one is prepared to take the ultimate risk to obtain it. Freedom is not a right for the slave and is therefore essentially negative and gained beyond struggle and has to be earned. The characteristic of this freedom is the ability to assign and gain meaning by one self. â€Å"As this universal self-consciousness of each and all, spirit has in one unity its pure inwardness as well as the being for others and the being -for-self of the individuals† (Hegel 710).According to Hegel, â€Å"vanity is expected to give up this freedom, and, instead of being the arbitrary principle moving the content, it is supposed to let this freedom descend into the content and move itself by its own nature and then to observe this movement† (Hegel 58). The freedom and the agency involved in being-for-self is not granted for the black slave and the black slave fails to grant himself this freedom and agency.Fanon believes that recognition without struggle does not take place as the white man, in the capacity of master, one day, without conflict said to the Negro, â€Å"From now on you are free† (Fanon 172). However, the white man words to the Negro here seem contradictory since the tone seems normative in a sense, commanding the black slave to accept that he is now free since he has same rights as those of the master. The statement is an empty recognition considering that the slave wants to make hims elf recognized and take control of what transpires.Fanon describes slave-object situation by restating Hegel’s description: â€Å"The individual who has not staked his life, may, no doubt, be recognized as a person, but he has not attained the truth of his recognition as an independent self-consciousness† (Fanon 170). This point throws some focus on the idea of personhood in the Hegelian sense. It is through struggle that personhood is gained. However, this does not guarantee that that one has gained freedom or agency in terms of being able to provide oneself with a desired meaning.According to Fanon’s view, the black slave will be satisfied if master slave dialectic is inverted and the only means to so is through conflict and struggle. White master’s values are inherited and exercised by the black slave without transformations. This leaves the black slave at a bleak situation wondering if there is any hope in coming to agreement with the colonial situati on between the black and slave and the white master. Is it really possible to move form conflict and violence to mutual recognition on inter-subjective level?This move is however possible if we turn to Fanon’s characterization of humanity that serves as a point of entry to mutual recognition. Characterization of Humanity according to Fanon Humanity, according to Fanon, is characterized with a direction of mutual recognition that is identified by the importance of acknowledging differences among people, the integral role of action as it relates to the subjectivity formation and the basic values of humanity. Under acknowledgment of difference, the affirmation of differences between white and masters and black slaves is important.The white master addressing the black man as a brother attempts to convince the black that there are no differences between the black and the white. â€Å"When it does happen that the Negro looks fiercely at the white man, the white man tells him: Brot her, there is no difference between us† (Fanon 172). This shows a simple paternalistic curiosity that the white man has in the black man which in turn shows that the white master has an interest in the black man as far as the former slave can be of political and economic assistance to the white man.There are ulterior motives then through the way the white master proclaims rhetorically that blacks and whites are equal. This is not an assertion of equality but rather sameness. The role and impact of race in a society is an issue that should be handled carefully. Fanon states that action is integral to the formation of subjective self-consciousness when he states: â€Å"the former slave needs a challenge to his humanity; he wants a conflict, a riot† (Fanon 172). The former slave is rendered active from the outside challenges he faces and the desire for subjectivity.Action is central to Fanon’s idea as it is a notion that problematizes and undermines recognition. Act ion and recognition should however co-exist to assist one in attaining subjectivity. Fanon puts clearly the significance and utter importance of action, where one puts thoughts into what they consider to be basic values constituting the human world. Basic Values of Humanity These are the values that Fanon provide that motivate action from people, those that people pursue, with even a risk of death in the process. Fanon said: â€Å"that man is a yes. Yes to life.Yes to love. Yes to generosity† (Fanon 173). These values constitute the backbone of mutual recognition and also humanity. The values also serve as motivation towards action, implying that action should bring about a human society that is based on these values. According to Fanon, action is superior to reaction and in his work; Fanon says â€Å"man’s behavior is only relational. And there is always resentment in a reaction† (Fanon 173). Fanon follows Nietzsche when he says that human behavior must be acti onal and that freedom is found out of practice.However, reaction is not necessarily negative and action in this case can also be a reaction against something alike transgressions of humanity. Fanon conceptualizes the humanity transgressions when he states, â€Å"man is also a no. No to scorn of man. No to degradation of man. No to exploitation of man. No to the butchery of what is most human in man: freedom† (Fanon 173). It is the desire for life, generosity and life that defines humans as well as their desire for both freedom and a mutual recognition ad subjectivity in hich the agency is afforded by both the self and the Other for the provision of meaning to one’s own life. This freedom is both a practice and value and any transgression against it almost certainly results in a violation of humanity and human life. One’s actions, in favor of mutual subjectivity, must at the same time be a reaction against degradation, scorn, and any exploitation aimed at human l ife. Self and Other is inextricably dependent on a simple and basic, but mutually beneficial, conceptualization of humanity.Fanon’s Black Skins, White Masks thus provides a starting point for conceptualization and in that there is an optimistic moment in Fanon’s reading of Hegel termed as a point of entry into mutual recognition. Reciprocity as Key to Mutual Recognition Reciprocity is a key element in Hegel’s recognition. Fanon considers absolute reciprocity to be the foundation of Hegelian dialectic. One-sided recognition cannot work according to Fanon, who asserts, â€Å"action from one side only would be useless, because what is to happen can only be brought about by means of both† (Fanon 169).The search for meaning to life and for an authentic identity can only be fulfilled in mutual recognition. The move from objecthood to subjecthood is the starting point to mutual recognition. This need is integral to the constitution of a healthy and functional hu man society. A self primitively begin as an is, a being-in-itself. However, one wants to be and emerge into being recognized. One wants to be considered as a subject and not an object (being-for-other). The other requires the same presence of oneself, in order to reach the same result and as a consequence of a society of comparison is formed.There is a simple conviction at the root of the need for recognition that the self has about itself, namely that the self is not a mere thing and should not be considered as an object. The refusal to be objectified drives the desire for subjectivity which in turn opens up the possibility of independence, agency, freedom and personhood. The desire also represents the move â€Å"beyond life toward a supreme good that is the transformation of subjective certainty of my own worth into a universally valid objective truth† (Fanon 170).Such truth search, for a supreme good beyond life, represents the creation of the human world in which one seek s reciprocal recognitions by recognizing which is human in an-other. Master slave dialectic as revealed by Fanon and Hegel shows that the aftermath of colonization is a messy and uncompromising process where human lives are lost and seriously damaged. There is a number of empowering and positive values that emerge for their work such as those based on the possibilities and pitfalls of mutual recognition that characterizes a positive description of humanity.