A Market Driven Market Analysis of Sainsbury Essays

A Market Driven Market Analysis of Sainsbury Essays A Market Driven Market Analysis of Sainsbury Essay A Market Driven Market Analysis of Sainsbury Essay A Market Driven Market Analysis of Sainsbury’s and the Emerging Online Shopping Sector Abstraction This paper represents an analysis of the recent rise in on-line place shopping and more specifically the service offered by the supermarket concatenation Sainsbury’s. The analysis derives from a market goaded direction position and efforts to put the recent activity by Sainsbury’s within a strategic and market driven model, measuring the grade to which its direction determinations fit in with bing theory in this country. To this terminal so, this paper represents non merely an appraisal and scrutiny of a existent universe company utilizing modern-day theory but an rating of that theory as it manifests within a practical state of affairs. Sainsbury’s has a long history of retail within the British market, nevertheless the initial selling run for its on-line service,Sainsbury’s To You, was dissatisfactory, coercing a re-launch and re-branding exercising in 2006 ( Lyons, 2006 ) that aimed to be more in melody with client demands. This makesSainsbury’s Online( as it is now called ) an ideal topic for a paper covering with market goaded direction. It is hoped that this paper represents both an lineation and rating of market goaded direction in practice but besides a survey of how a comparatively traditionally based company can react to client demands and integrate these into their stigmatization exercisings and their corporate civilization. Introduction – From Marketing to Market Driven Management As Lambin ( 2000 ) provinces, Marketing is both a concern doctrine and an action-orientated process ( Lambin, 2000: 3 ) ; it has both an abstract base and a practical application and, as such, alterations to accommodate the environing socio-economic and socio-political state of affairs. Marketing non merely exists as an interface between a company and its clients but besides as a statement of purpose within a market place that serves to specify market portion and merchandise arrangement. Traditionally, selling has frequently been seen as a manner of working ( or possibly even making ) sometimes, unconscious demands and desires within consumers. Maddock and Fulton’s 1996 text editionMarketing to the Mind: Right Brain Strategies for Advertising and Marketing, for case purposes to utilize psychological techniques to make a sensed demand within a consumer that can be exploited by a company in a round procedure of creative activity and repletion of desire. Used more as an active ve rb, selling has come to depict the procedure of involvement coevals one time a merchandise has been created, instead than holding an built-in topographic point within research, development and production itself. As Lambin ( 2000 ) suggests, selling has besides traditionally been seen as contingent to the ethos, mission and civilization of a house, bing within the interstice between supply and demand: In a market economic system, the function of selling is to organize free and competitory exchange so as to guarantee efficient matching of supply and demand of goods and services†¦The function of marketing in society is hence to organize exchange and communicating between Sellerss and purchasers. This definition emphasises the undertakings and maps of selling, irrespective of the intent of the procedure of exchange. [ 1 ] The linguistic communication here, of supply and demand, exchange and communicating, emanates from traditional economic theory. The traditional impression of selling, so, relates straight to the Marxist construct of the creative activity of surplus value outlined inDas Capital( 1933 ) and depicting a quintessentially 19th and early 20th century construct of commercialism ( Drucker, 2007: 3 ) . How, asks observers such as Lambin ( 2000 ) , Day ( 2007 ) and Webster ( 2002 ) , can marketing adjust to the alterations in the socio-economic place experience since the 1980s? How can marketing reflect a more postmodern and globalised society, where increased denationalization, greater and greater technological progresss ( Lambin, 2000 ) , a feminised workplace ( Amin, 1997 ) and a immensely more educated client base mean that the simple chaining of supply and demand through selling is unequal? The reply is the displacement from marketing to market goaded direction, where client satisfaction and demand permeates every procedure in the corporation [ 2 ] : from the design and research of new merchandises to the method of bringing. As Webster ( 2002 ) inside informations, the construct is a simple but effectual one: Nothing could be simpler to understand. A satisfied client is willing to pay the house good for its merchandises and services because the client finds value in them. Value is created for the stockholders in the signifier of net income when the client pays the house a monetary value that is greater than all of the monetary values the house itself paid for the goods and services that it has combined into its ain merchandise offering. Therefore, value is created in the market place by clients who perceive value in the firm’s merchandise offering. [ 3 ] This simple sounding mission statement has a enormous impact on the twenty-four hours to twenty-four hours running of a concern or administration and, as we shall see, is non ever uppermost within the heads of many CEOs and stockholders. Market goaded direction purposes to put the construct of sensed value at the bosom of a company’s operations and, as such, represents an of import paradigm displacement in concern thought, one that is more holistically defined, one that attempts to put greater burden on answerability and procedure and moreover one that is commensurate with the altering commercial field beyond the council chamber. Along with the image of market goaded direction, Lambin ( 2000 ) postulates the rise of the new consumer ( Lambin, 2000: 41 ) , a more flush, spoting and technologically educated client who values time, stimulation, pleasance and change ( Lambin, 2000: 41 ) above traditional consumer desires such as length of service, quality and low monetary value. Baker and Bass ( 2003 ) continue this line of idea when they province: The present consumer-driven market place is characterised by a new sort of consumer, one who has been diversely described as active’ , knowledgeable’ and post-modern’ . In kernel, this is a New Consumer’ a animal clearly different and identifiable from its predecessors. [ 4 ] The image of the new consumer’ embodies many of the concerns of market goaded direction, it besides, as we shall see, has a great bearing on the instance survey that forms the following portion of this paper. The new consumer is a theoretical account that is based non simply on stuff demand but on a whole gamut of different situational demands, from clip direction to the desire for alteration and freshness. Servicess such as on-line shopping and e-commerce could merely hold come out of displacements in the manner clients needed to carry on their concern and ipso facto their whole life style ( Dholakia, Fritz, Dholakia and Mundorf, 2002 ) nevertheless this was facilitated by patterned advances in engineering and in marketing theory – as the traditional paths to client involvement ( in-store direction, forepart of head advertisement [ Varey, 2001 ] , monetary value decreases and so on ) began to look inadequate. The instance survey that follows looks at one such illustration of this, the online shopping arm of J. Sainsbury’s,Sainsbury’s Online, and does so within the renters of market driven direction and related theory. The first subdivision presents a general company background and overview of their present place ; the 2nd subdivision looks at the country of client behaviors and related scheme ( Lambin, 2000: 89-458 ) ; the 3rd, market goaded direction determinations such as merchandise line and pricing ( Lambin, 2000: 459-698 ) and the decision aims to put all of this within the context of current theory and to measure Sainsbury’s current policies. Sainsbury’s Online – A Traditional Company in a Changing Universe J. Sainsbury’s was founded in 1869 by John and Mary Ann Sainsbury [ 5 ] in Drury Lane, London and has grown to be one of the major participants in the UK food market market, functioning on norm about 16 million clients in 455 supermarkets around the state every hebdomad. Geting a figure of related concerns through a series of coup detats in the 1990s ( Bells Stores, Jacksons, JB Beaumont etc ) Sainsbury’s has invariably been careful to safeguard its image as a purveyor of quality green goods and besides to increase its presence in the market place over the last decennary. Its literature invariably stresses the extent that it responds to its customer’s demands and wants whilst at the same clip guaranting that its stockholders are kept happy with high returns. Its mission statement, for illustration, reads: Our aim is simple ; to function clients good and thereby supply stockholders with good, sustainable fiscal returns†¦ Our policy is to work with all of our providers reasonably, recognizing the common benefit of fulfilling clients demands. We besides aim to carry through our duties to the communities and environments in which we operate. [ 6 ] We can see here the beginnings of a market goaded direction mentality, where the satisfaction of the stakeholders is inextricably linked to that of the clients ; [ 7 ] nevertheless, as we shall see, this was non ever the instance, and market placement of Sainsbury’s is still a debatable country. Sainsbury’s To You, Sainsbury’s cyberspace shopping site, was ab initio rolled out in 2001/2 and operated out of merely 20 shops throughout the state. In its first twelvemonth, it made a ?50m loss making gross revenues of around ?110m in 2002 ( Wearden, 2002 ) . This was in comparing to Tesco online that achieved gross revenues of over ?356m in the same twelvemonth and handled about 85,000 orders per hebdomad to Sainsbury’s 27,000. As Harris and Dennis ( 2002 ) item, the scheme for the turn overing out ofSainsbury’s To Youwas based really much on their bing concern theoretical account. Initially, Sainsbury’s adopted the order and collect system that meant clients would order online and so come into the shop to pick up their food markets ( Harris and Dennis, 2002: 252 ) . This was chiefly designed to feed into bing selling schemes of impulse purchasing and forepart of head advertisement – the client would purchase farther green goods in shop w hen they came in to pick up their antecedently detailed order, so the thoery went. As Harris and Dennis ( 2002 ) suggest, non merely was this unpopular ( the market leader Tesco declining to follow such as system ) but Sainsbury’s ( and its rival Safeway ) abandoned this after 2002 when it was re-branded and re-launched. This last point is an interesting illustration of the manner in which a company such as Sainsbury’s can neglect to factor the demands and desires of the client when explicating market schemes. The order and collect’ service was based, so Harris and Dennis ( 2002 ) suggest, on preexistent corporate schemes non commensurate with market driven operations, the client hence rejected the service out of manus and the concern, purportedly given the disparity in net incomes, when to the rival supermarket, Tesco. Sainsbury’s is now the 3rd biggest online grocer behind Tesco and Asda, a state of affairs that is, in portion, due to the re-launch of the on-line service in 2002/3 ( Thompson, 2008 ) . The following subdivision looks closely at the building ofSainsbury’s Onlineand how this fits into, foremost, the company’s bing authorization and, secondly, market goaded direction theory. Customer Behaviour and Schemes One of the primary incentives behind market goaded direction is client satisfaction and this, as Lambin ( 2000 ) inside informations is best understood through a consideration of client behavior and how it changes over clip. Bradley ( 2003 ) inside informations that a consumer’s behavior is a complex procedure based on a whole scope of sociological and psychological inputs that are brooding of alterations in the wider societal field, as he states: The external factors which influence consumer purchasing behavior are civilization, moralss, legal limitations, societal category, interhousehold communications and other influential procedures. The internal factors refer to the individual’s ain cognitive universe which determines the individual’s reaction to stimuli. [ 8 ] Lambin ( 2000 ) criticises accepted theory that asserts that marketing creates need, for him and for many other theoreticians ( Varey and Lewis, 2000 ; Morris and Morris, 1990 ; Thompson and Strickland, 2003 etc ) selling should reflect a demand existent in the market topographic point already for Lambin ( 2000 ) the issue is one of analysis instead than creative activity. It is easy to see how this impression fits into e-commerce and online shopping, Chan, Lee, Dillon and Chang ( 2001 ) for case have stated how alterations in the nature of society and client life styles have created a demand for services that are unusually different from traditional commercial ventures. One of the first stairss, so, to showing clients with what they need is to understand their life style and to factor this in to any corporate determination, as Lambin ( 2000 ) provinces: The consumer is consistent with regard to his or her ain set of maxims, and non with regard to a set of maxims defined with no mention to a specific situational context or penchants construction. [ 9 ] We have so the image of a client whose demands are propelledbyand rootedina specific situational context and this, as plants on e-commerce have told us, is non needfully commensurate with historically determined or traditional demands. The user of an on-line food market site, for case, is improbable to do the same sorts of impulse bargains as a shopper in shop, they are besides, as Dennis, Fenech and Merrilees ( 2004 ) item, more likely to value such things as dependability of the web site, website design and client service over monetary value and particular offers ( Dennis, Fenech and Merrilees, 2004: 92 ) . Following the re-launch ofSainsbury’s To Youin 2002, Sainsbury’s offered a more matter-of-fact and useful service, more aligned with its nearest challenger Tesco than the sole market its original name suggested. This was clearly a strategic operation carried out after initial losingss and, as Hackney, Grant and Birtwhistle ( 2006 ) item, resulted in a 19 per cent per cent growing over the following 12 months. One of the specific tools Lambin ( 2000 ) lineations is demand analysis ( Lambin, 2000: 292 ) a construct that combines primary demand’ ( the entire demand for a peculiar merchandise or service, in a specific geographical country, a specific clip frame and a specific economic environment ) and company demand’ ( a particular company’s portion of the primary ) . The primary demand can besides be plotted against entire market strength to foretell impregnation degrees and to be after for strategic eventualities. Figures from the IGD province that, in 2004, the primary demand for on-line food market shopping was around ?1bn per twelvemonth and that Sainsbury’s commanded around 14 per cent of this ( company demand ) . [ 10 ] The absolute market is dependent on a figure of things, in this sector, chiefly of class the figure of families with entree to a computing machine and the cyberspace – presently this is thought to be in the part of 8 million [ 11 ] , each of these families potentially spend the norm of ?119.10 per hebdomad on food markets online [ 12 ] and it is this figure ( figure of family ten mean hebdomadal budget ) that represents the absolute market potency ( Lambin, 2000: 294 ) that Sainsbury’s can take for. As Hackney, Grant and Birtwhistle ( 2006 ) province, much of the success of the Tesco online system and therefore, much of the failure of Sainsbury’s initial operations, was due to strategic planning. Tesco non merely had bing trade name acquaintance but was besides able to develop an emergent strategy ( Mintzberg and Waters, 1985 ) that was conceived of over a figure of old ages. Unlike Sainsbury’s, Tesco’s online operations grew easy during the first two old ages of operation and was merely rolled out to the full after the bringing substructure was in topographic point and working ( Grant and Birtwhistle, 2006 ) . Commensurate with impressions of the strategic selling program ( Lambin, 2000: 424 ; Stone and Maccall, 2004 ; Proctor, 2000 etc ) Sainsbury’s attempted ( and still try ) to place themselves within a market that was already emerging and, to some extent, booming. The trade name direction of Sainsbury’s stresses the importance of quality a nd household values every bit good as foregrounding its ain scope of low priced merchandises, their mission provinces for illustration that: At Sainsbury s we will present an of all time bettering quality shopping experience for our clients with great merchandise at just monetary values. We aim to transcend client outlooks for healthy, safe, fresh and tasty nutrient doing their lives easier mundane. [ 13 ] This in blunt contrast to that of Tesco that systematically stresses the impression of value in their literature and selling. [ 14 ] Sainsbury’s has systematically positioned itself in the food market market between the cheaper shops such as Tesco and Asda and the higher priced, choice thrust concerns like Waitrose and Marks and Spencer. This has manifested itself non merely in the design and construction of the website it offers for case a practical community where users can interchange formulas and thoughts – but besides in some of the direction determinations made over the last two old ages. The desire for a greener shopping experience for case has led Sainsbury’s to perpetrate to electric new waves to present their goods by 2010, reflective of, non merely, their mission statement’s purpose to offer a whole shopping experience’ but of their strategic placement within an already crowded market. Market Driven Management Decisions This last point enables us to interrogate the concluding country of operations: market goaded direction determinations, the impression that all corporate determination devising should be based on the sorts of strategic placement and demand analysis that we have hitherto looked at [ 15 ] . As Lambin ( 2000 ) provinces, within a market goaded administration, all determinations from pricing to merchandise choice, from logistics to advertisement will be based on client satisfaction and deriving greater market portion: In a invariably altering environment, a company must continuously re-evaluate the construction of its portfolio of activities, intending the determinations to abandon merchandises, modify bing 1s or launch new merchandises. These determinations are of the extreme importance to the endurance of company and affect non merely the selling section, but all of the other functional countries as good. [ 16 ] We have already seen how logistical determinations at Sainsbury’s were affected by market concerns through the acceptance of greener conveyance and how the forsaking and re-launch of the originalSainsbury’s To Youwebsite reflected the sensed demand of its clients and its market placement. Commensurate with impressions of market goaded pricing, Sainsbury’s used a construction that can be viewed more as a statement of value ( Morris and Morris, 1990 ) than a calculated scheme of underselling that is traditionally seen to be the chief arm in a supermarket monetary value war. Again Sainsbury’s attempted to place itself as a center land participant within the market by appealingbothto clients seeking cut monetary value value merchandises with the debut of its Low Price’ no frills range [ 17 ] and the higher priced healthy organic nutrient scope Be Good to Yourself . Again, we can see here how such pricing determinations reflect its strategic operations as positioning itself someplace between Tesco and Waitrose. Datas from Sainsbury’s online clients is due to be combined with strategies rolled out in shop. The CRM ( client relationship direction ) based exercising is due to hit shops UK broad in 2008 and aims to unite both in-store and on-line client databases [ 18 ] . Sainsbury’s trueness cardNectarnon merely offers clients money back offers and price reductions therefore functioning as a trueness card but, evidently, besides provides a front terminal to a valuable CRM informations aggregation exercising and this is set addition as it is combined with the new informations analytics tool, Self Serve’ ( LMG, 2008 ) . Customer relationship direction aims to use informations collected through things such as trueness cards and shopping behavior to better the free flow of information between consumer and retail merchant ; as Zingale and Arndt ( 2001 ) item, this is peculiarly utile when covering with on-line shopping: Enterprises should non see the cyberspace as simply a new medium or new channel ( although both of these could be get downing points for internal treatments ) , but more as a riotous engineering that demands strategic response. In other words, endeavors should explicate an Internet scheme for all facets of their concern: selling, distribution, stock list, direction, procurance. [ 19 ] Online shopping, so, can non merely be a manner of easing shopping but besides a manner of garnering informations on client behavior. It is easy to see, in Sainsbury’s particularly, how such information is being used – the web site itself, for case, merely offers those merchandises that its client base has proven to devour and there is a installation for offering merchandises based on picks made in the yesteryear. This, along with the creative activity of on-line communities through forums and information exchange portals, forms the footing of Sainsbury’s client relationship plan. Conclusion – The Middle Ground Scenario As we have antecedently hinted at, Sainsbury’s can be seen to be a traditional company trying to set to a altering economic universe. Its historical presence in the high street has assured it is good known in the market topographic point ; nevertheless this presence has besides been a barrier to its ingraining into emerging engineerings such as the cyberspace. Initially, as we have discussed, its web site was seen as a failure, particularly when compared to its nearest challenger Tesco, nevertheless through a period of re-branding it was re-launched and exists today as one of the fastest turning sectors of the nucleus company’s concern. As this study has tried to asseverate, this was due, in the chief, to the acceptance of many market goaded direction determinations and schemes that attempted non merely to re-position its on-line service in the market topographic point – bridging the gulf between Tesco and Waitrose – but besides to put client demands and s atisfaction at the bosom of its operations. In this manner, as Zingale and Arndt ( 2001 ) province, its cyberspace arm is being seen as inextricably linked to the remainder of the concern, non merely trusting on the bing constructions of procurance and bringing but besides feeding back information and information analysis to let for continually alteration and transmutation. Market goaded direction affects all countries of an operation and we have traced this throughSainsbury’s Online, looking at procedures such as CRM, strategic pricing, demand analysis and client behavior. It is interesting to observe that Sainsbury’s cyberspace based services non merely represent many of the issues discussed but besides that acceptance of these schemes coincided with increased use of their web site and greater net incomes. The alterations in the manner Sainsbury’s viewed its online shopping operations are an interesting correlate to the manner it has shaped its ain market place in recent old ages – trying to offer its clients value that resides more in community and household than merely monetary value cuts. Mentions Books and Diaries Abram, J and Hawkes, P ( 2003 ) ,The Seven Myths of Consumer Management, London: John Wiley. Amin, A ( 1997 ) ,Post-Fordism: A Reader, London: Blackwell. 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Avogadros Number To Calculate Mass of a Single Atom

Avogadro's Number To Calculate Mass of a Single Atom Avogadros number is one of the most important constants used in chemistry. It is the number of particles in a single mole of a material, based on the number of atoms in exactly 12 grams of the isotope carbon-12. Although this number is a constant, its experimentally determined, so we use an approximate value of 6.022 x 1023. So, you know how many atoms are in a mole. Heres how to use the information to determine the mass of a single atom. Avogadro's Number Example Problem: Mass of a Single Atom Question: Calculate the mass in grams of a single carbon (C) atom. Solution To calculate the mass of a single atom, first look up the atomic mass of carbon from the periodic table.This number, 12.01, is the mass in grams of one mole of carbon. One mole of carbon is 6.022 x 1023 atoms of carbon (Avogadros number). This relation is then used to convert a carbon atom to grams by the ratio: mass of 1 atom / 1 atom mass of a mole of atoms / 6.022 x 1023 atoms Plug in the atomic mass of carbon to solve for the mass of 1 atom: mass of 1 atom mass of a mole of atoms / 6.022 x 1023 mass of 1 C atom 12.01 g / 6.022 x 1023 C atomsmass of 1 C atom 1.994 x 10-23 g Answer The mass of a single carbon atom is 1.994 x 10-23 g. Applying the Formula to Solve for Other Atoms and Molecules Although the problem was worked using carbon (the element upon which Avogadros number is based), you can use the same method to solve for the mass of an atom or molecule. If youre finding the mass of an atom of a different element, just use that elements atomic mass. If you want to use the relation to solve for the mass of a single molecule, theres an extra step. You need to add up the masses of all of the atoms in that one molecule and use them instead. Lets say, for example, you want to know the mass of a single atom of water. From the formula (H2O), you know there are two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. You use the periodic table to look up the mass of each atom (H is 1.01 and O is 16.00). Forming a water molecule gives you a mass of: 1.01 1.01 16.00 18.02 grams per mole of water and you solve with: mass of 1 molecule mass of one mole of molecules / 6.022 x 1023 mass of 1 water molecule 18.02 grams per mole / 6.022 x 1023 molecules per mole mass of 1 water molecule 2.992 x 10-23 grams

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Culturally Responsive Classroom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Culturally Responsive Classroom - Essay Example Likewise, this paper seeks to break down and simplify in explaining the key components and concepts of this paradigm to have a better understanding of what cultural responsive pedagogy requires. Initially, it will explain the realities of the situation and identify the players, their key roles to achieve successful cultural responsive pedagogy as well as simple frameworks that will guide any modifications intended for better performance of school and its pupils in the future. Keywords: cultural responsive teaching, cultural responsive pedagogy, achievement potential, multicultural diversity, multidisciplinary education, I. Rationale Behind Cultural Responsive Pedagogy Traditional Education and Its Impact A regular scenario inside a conventional classroom environment would be having a single teacher-facilitator mentoring about 15 or more pupils with the same age range. Traditional education generally adopts the ‘carrot-stick’ method and the ‘one-teaching technique-f its all’. â€Å"The structures, assumptions, substance and operations of conventional educational enterprises are patterned on European American icons†(Gay, 2010, p. 23). Generally, conventional educators ignore things of what students are receptive of like their culture, individuality, basic norms of behavior, body language as well as communication signals. Children are forced to swallow everything taught all in the same manner which eventually ends up provoking student resistance to the learning process. However, not all children fall under the same receptive category so some turns out to be more counter-productive instead. Actually, â€Å"there are many underlying factors of traditional education that contribute to the failure of students in different kinds of achievements in academic, school attendance, personal well being, dropout preventions and avoidance of discipline problems† (Gay, 2010.p.26). The Growing Influx of Multi-Diversified Students "The increa sing diversity in schools, the ongoing demographic changes across the nation and the movement towards globalization dictate that educators should develop a more in-depth understanding of culture if it is intended to bring about true understanding among diverse populations† (Portuondo, et. al, n.d). It was reported that â€Å"in the 34-year period from 1973 to 2007, the percentage of students of color in the U.S. public schools increased from 22% to 55% by the National Center for Education Statistics, 2008.† (Gay 2010, p. xi). That being said, an â€Å"alarming rate of increased low-academic achievers among student of colors, the minority and the mainstream of students† was also detected† (Gay 2010, p. ix) which according to the second generation of social theorists may be attributed to â€Å"cultural deprivation†, a major influencing factor of this outcome† (Gay, 2010, p. ix). II. Understanding the Significance of Cultural Responsive Teaching ( CRT) Cultural Responsi

Conflicts Among Co Workers Cultural Studies Essay

Conflicts Among Co Workers Cultural Studies Essay Abstract Due to globalization, more interaction among Mauritian from diverse cultures, beliefs and backgrounds are increasing more than ever before in the working environment. Most people and companies are facing the need to communicate cross-culturally. Therefore, maximizing and capitalizing on workplace diversity has become an important issue for management today. Unfortunately, due to cultural prejudices and ethnocentrism of some co-workers, most employees form culturally diverse workgroups are unable to cooperate and work together in an organization. Thus, it consequently creates conflicts and barrier to communication resulting in an improper business environment. Acknowledgement Chapter 1: Introduction Introduction of the project The purpose of this study is to determine the factors that cause conflicts among co-workers from culturally diverse workgroups. The link has to be established between those two factors conflicts and culture. This study target the whole Mauritian population as potential respondents, being a multi cultural country most of us have experienced at least once the impact that our culture may have on our relationship with colleagues, on our work and people reactions towards us. Communication and mutual understanding among us is sometimes the root to conflict resolution. Thats why throughout the researches and analysis of data much focus would be laid on sources of conflicts, culture impacts, double effects of diversity and communication as a solution to bridge the gap. Problem Statement In a multi-cultural country like Mauritius Island, increased cultural diversity in work places has aroused considerable attention to conflict management and intercultural sensitivity. Diverse workgroups pose several challenges (Egan and Tsui, 1992; Ayoko and Hartel, 2002). However, few studies have investigated these two concepts conflict and culturally diverse workgroups (CDWS) together. The present study aim to bridge the gap in this line of research with an examination between those two concepts situations stated below. Some studies in this area shows that diverse workgroups are hampered by process loss (Milliken and Martins, 1996), high levels of conflict (Egan and Tsui, 1992) and low levels of cohesion and social integration (Hambrick, 1994). Although conflict is not limited to culturally diverse workgroups (CDWs), (see Jehn, 1997; Tjosvold, 1991a, b, c), the potential for conflict in Mauritian companies for CDWs is greater than culturally homogeneous workgroups because of the operation of cultural prejudices, biases and stereotypes as well as value differences (Harrison et al., 1998). These factors are proposed to affect processes such as communication in CDWs (see Larkey, 1996). Previous studies also suggest that a groups demographic composition influences communication between group members because people tend to communicate with those who are similar to themselves (Zenger and Lawrence, 1989). Group members, who perceive themselves as similar, tend to communicate with each other more openly. When group members perceive themselves as dissimilar, communication is impacted negatively. Specifically, demographic diversity is associated with increased problems with communication, co-ordination, dysfunctional conflict and a potential for decreased performance (Pelled et al., 1999). It is argued that communication openness is antecedent to the differing group members reactions to conflict events, which, in turn, are proposed to impact groups task and social outcomes. Aim of Study The aim of this study is to determine whether employees from culturally diverse workgroups are ground for organizational conflicts among co-workers. The present study also aims to assess the role and impact of communication openness as a conflict resolution method among work groups of different cultural backgrounds. Objectives of Study To establish the link that relates conflict to cultural backgrounds in the working environment. (or To establish the factors that leads to cross-cultural conflict in the working environment) Analyzing people mindset towards colleagues from other cultures. Assessing sources of conflict that may arise and its impact within employees from culturally diverse workgroups. Assessing communication openness impact as a conflict resolution method for multi cultural interaction among employees. Outline of Study Chapter 2: Review of Literature Introduction Conflict Nature of Conflict For long conflict has been considered as one of the most important aspect of modern management (Wilson Jerrell, 1981). Augsburger (1992:11) defined conflict as a crisis that forces us to recognize explicitly that we live with multiple realities and must negotiate a common reality; that we bring to each situation differing frequently and must negotiate a common reality; that we bring to each differing- frequently contrasting- stories and must create together a single shared story with a role for each and for both. Commonly, conflict may be understand as a feeling, a disagreement, a real or perceived incompatibility of interests, inconsistent worldviews, or a set of behaviors (Mayer, 2000:3). In todays organizations conflict is viewed as unavoidable in organizations and groups of people due to the complexity and interdependence of organizational life. Theorists are still debating throughout the researches to know whether it is beneficial or harmful to companies. Organizational conflict theorists such as Pondy (1967) and Brown (1984) suggested that conflict is of uttermost importance to the good functioning of an organization; moreover they suggest that much more attention must be focus on the causes and resolution of these conflicts (Schmidt and Kochan, 1972; Brown, 1983). Sources of conflict/Contributors to conflict at the Workplace The possible sources of conflict are poor communication, competition for common but scarce resources, incompatible goals and the like14. Fisher (1997) notes, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦both individuals and groups have undeniable needs for identity, dignity, security, equity, participation in decisions that affect them. Frustration of these basic needsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.becomes a source of social conflict According to Plunkett and Attner (1989), the sources of conflict include; shared resources, differences in goals, difference in perceptions and values, disagreements in the role requirements, nature of work activities, individual approaches, and the stage of organizational development. Gray and Stark (1984) suggested that there are six sources of conflict. These are: 1) Limited resources; 2) Interdependent work activities; 3) Differentiation of activities; 4) Communication problems; 5) Differences in perceptions; 6) The environment of the organization. According to these writers, conflict can also arise from a number of other sources, such as: 1) Individual differences (some people enjoy conflict while others dont); 2) Unclear authority structures (people dont know how far their authority extends); 3) Differences in attitudes; 4) Task symmetries (one group is more powerful than another and the weaker group tries to change the situation; 5) Difference in time horizons (some departments have a long-run view and others have a short -run view). Another author Deutch in camp bell et-al (1983:187) identified a list of sources of conflict. These are; control over resources, preferences and nuisances, values, beliefs, and the nature of relationships between the parties. The classification of conflict is often made on the basis of the antecedent conditions that lead to conflict. Conflict may originate from a number of sources, such as tasks, values, goals, and so on. It has been found appropriate to classify conflict on the basis of these sources for proper understanding of its nature and implications. Dealing with conflict/ Conflicts Resolution Methods/ Conflict Management Styles (techniques) Researchers have identified several modes or styles people use to deal with conflict. While the most widely-understood paradigm for resolving conflict may be that of fight (i.e. to compete and win the conflict) or flight (i.e. to avoid people with whom one is in conflict), it is also common to find managers who have other styles of dealing with workplace conflict. Follett, a classical management theorist, was many decades ahead of her time when she conceptualized three styles of handling conflict domination, compromise, and integration and argued for an integrative approach to conflict resolution (Metcalf and Urwick, 1940). Schmidt and Tannenbaum (1960) discuss four approaches to conflict resolution avoidance, repression, competitive and collaborative with the most appropriate approach depending on informational, perceptual, role, and other factors. Types and levels of Conflicts Thomas (1976) is generally credited for popularizing five general styles or strategies for managing conflict avoiding, obliging/accommodating, dominating, compromising, and collaborating/integrating. He also categorized these styles by two key dimensions: (1) The degree of concern for self, which can also be viewed as assertiveness or how assertive one is likely to be in pursuing ones interests; and (2) The degree of concern for others, or how cooperatively one is willing to engage the other party. Conflict management styles/modes Research on conflict styles suggests that managers tend to use one or two styles regardless of whether those styles are most appropriate for the situation, and that managers respond to a conflict situation based on the way they feel instead of the way they should respond (Aldag and Kzuhara, 2002; Hellriegel et al., 2001; Whetten and Cameron, 2002). Several scholars (e.g. Thomas and Kilmann, 1974) have developed questionnaires to help managers gain a deeper understanding of their dominant style of conflict-resolution behavior and help them determine whether changes in their style could increase their effectiveness in resolving conflicts. The literature suggests that: . Variations of these styles may be appropriate under certain conditions; . Managers should be aware of their dominant style; and . Managers should make a conscious effort to choose the best style for each situation. Based on an extensive review of scientific studies, Rahim (2001) concluded that there appears to be agreement among scholars that the collaborative or integrative style is the superior approach to handling workplace conflicts because it promotes creative problem solving and fosters mutual respect and rapport. They point out that a consistent application of this style offers the greatest probability of producing win-win results for both involved parties. Consequently, in an attempt to achieve win-win outcomes, many scholars (e.g. Fisher and Ury, 1982; Dana, 2001; Cloke and Goldsmith, 2000; Rahim, 2001) have offered specific to do lists or steps. A review of these approaches to conflict resolution suggests that although there is general consensus regarding the basic principles of developing a win-win strategy (see following list), there is no structured, systematic approach to developing win-win solutions to organizational conflicts. The four points of principled negotiation (Adapted from Fisher and Ury, 1982) are as follows: (1) Separate the people from the problem. (2) Focus on interests, not positions. (3) Generate a variety of possibilities before deciding what to do. (4) Insist that the result be based on some objective standard. Recently, Hoffman (2005, 2007) argued that diagrammatic reasoning is useful for bringing hidden knowledge to the surface so it can be explicitly considered by participants in a negotiation or conflict. Hoffman proposes a system referred to logical argument mapping to make such knowledge explicit and makes a strong case for the benefits of diagrammatic approaches in general in communicating and resolving conflicts. We believe Goldratts evaporating cloud provides a structured, systematic way to resolve conflicts while it provides the benefits of the collaborative/integrative conflict resolution style. In addition, the EC is a logical diagramming approach that we believe provides the significant benefits enumerated by Hoffmann (2005). In essence, it provides managers and co-workers a mechanism to effectively manage their reaction to conflict and be a part of the solution to difficult situations. Another conflict resolution method used today is Mediation is another way of conflict management. Bentley (1996) describes mediation as a form of problem solving process where a neutral third party assists disputants to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Culture and Conflict / Cross-Cultural Conflict Culture refers to systems of meaning values, beliefs, expectation, and goals shared by a particular group of people distinguishing them from members of other groups (Gooderham and Nordhaug 2003 pg 131; Schneider and Barsoux 2003, cited in Martin G. 2006). People in different cultures quite often have different ideologies, and such differences are important to decide the way they respond and react in a conflicting situation. Throughout this study, researchers would determine the link that exists between culture and conflict. Culture Culture Background Culture is the manifold ways of perceiving and organizing the world that are held in common by a group of people and passed on interpersonally and intergenerationally (Yuan, 2006, p. 5). According to David Victor, it is the part of behavior that is at once learned and collective, and is therefore, taught rather than instinctive or innate (2001, p. 30). Starting at birth, the infant mind is somewhat like a blank tape, waiting to be filled, culture plays a large part in the recording process (Fisher, 1988, p. 45). Handed down from members within the larger community, it is gradually reinforced and imprinted into individuals mind as time progresses. Culture directly influences the way in which people within the context communicate, and the way in which they perceive each other (Victor, 2001). As a result, one organizations conduct, developed in a particular environment and reflecting the local staffs cultural identity, may not be applicable to another culture. People around the world are similar as well as different, they are similar since they share common characteristics, and at the same time they are different since each one of them have been born and brought up in different cultures having different set of values. According to Naylor (1997), all human beings are fundamentally the same, but culture makes them different and distinguishes them from other groups by creating and developing their own version of culture to meet their needs, desires and goals. In other words, culture serves as an element that helps humans to identify and define themselves. Therefore, Naylor (1997) defined culture as the learned way (or ways) of belief, behavior, and the products of these (both physically and socially) that is shared (at least to some degree) within human groups and serves to distinguish that culture group from another learning different beliefs and behaviors (p. 1). Ting Toomey (1999) also made a similar definition of culture. She defined culture as a learned meaning system that consists of patterns of traditions, beliefs, values, norms, and symbols that are passed on from one generation to the next and are shared to varying degrees by interacting members of a community (Ting Toomey, 1999, p. 10). Cultural Stereotype and Preconceptions Stereotype refers to the simplified viewpoint that one social group holds for the other. Cultural stereotype is attributed to over-generalization, which claims that the cultural characteristic of one individual can also be applied to the group, and ignores the mobile and changeable nature of culture as a whole (Beamer Varner, 2009). Considering mankinds limited capacity to process messages, and todays overwhelming volume of information, it may be helpful for people to try to summarize cultural differences, and establish cultural models. In this sense, some extent of qualified stereotype could be instrumental for it facilitates mutual understanding and learning between cultures. However, when this strategy is adopted generally, undesired effects arise. Generally, because of the stereotyped preconception in our mind, we want to see what we think we will see. Ones cultural belief system learned during socialization, ones experiences, and ones currently salient roles all contribute to the composition of what Bruner has called the individuals expectancy set; what he is set for perceiving in a situation and in other people (Simmons and McCall, 1966, p. 63). Furthermore, due to this mentality, we are not only attracted to things that we anticipate seeing and try to interpret them based on our limited knowledge, but we also disregard or belittle things that deviate from expectations. Cultural Prejudices, Ethnocentrism and Bullying When dealing with cultural aspects there are two aspects that we need to keep in mind, cultural prejudice and ethnocentrism. Cultural prejudice refers to the formation of opinion on certain members of the group grounded on the previous perception, attitude, and viewpoint of the group, heedless of the particular characteristic of the individual (Zhang and Xu, 2007). In cross-cultural communication, people often rely on their first impressions and assumptions, drawing on previous knowledge of the common features of a culture to make conclusions about an individual instead of analyzing behaviors specifically. Ethnocentrism means that a tendency exists within every individual to view his or her own culture as intrinsically better than other cultures (Victor, 2001, p. 36). When we grow up in a particular culture, not only does it shape our disposition and insert certain values and beliefs into our minds, but it also teaches us how to navigate within the environment. The older we grow and the deeper we immerse ourselves in one culture, the more likely we will see the world through a stained-glass window. Thus, it is natural for people to establish a sense of superiority regarding ones own culture over the other, generating a comfort zone in which we live and with which we are familiar. Moreover, self-reference criterion is employed in evaluating the surroundings. Nevertheless, this subconscious sense of cultural supremacy acts like a stumbling block in cross-cultural communication in that it forms a narrow-minded and defensive cultural identity that affects meaningful cultural exchange. In addition, it trains people into the mindset of drawing on a finalized conception to perceive other cultures. Just as cultural scholar and organizational sociologist Geert Hofstede, once said, Everyone is used to seeing the world from their own living rooms window; everyone has the tendency to view foreign cultures as strange while consider their own features as standard. This narrow mentality opens the door for future cultural imperialism, abasement, isolation and dependence which disrupts cross-cultural communication (Yang and Yi, 2006, p. 77). Consequently, with workers mindset of cultural prejudices and ethnocentrism there is a tendency that the employee who is culturally different suffers most of the time from bullying. Einarsen (1999) defines bullying as deliberate or unconsciously repeated actions and practices directed to one or more workers (victims) with the result of causing humiliation, offence, distress, and interference with performance on the job. Especially, bullying behaviors include: aggressive eye contact (glaring or meaningful glances), intimidating physical gestures (including finger pointing, slamming or throwing objects), yelling or screaming at the target, angry outbursts and temper tantrums, rude or hostile behavior toward the target, accusations of wrongdoing, spreading false rumors about the victim, breaching the victims confidentiality, and making unreasonable work demands on the target (Keashly, 1998). Einarsen (2000) identified two general types of bullying behaviors. Predatory bullying occurs where the victim has personally done nothing provocative to justify the bullying behaviors. In this case, the victim is an accident of a bullys demonstration of power. In contrast, conflict-related bullying occurs as result of highly escalated conflict (Einarsen, 2000). In some instances, the social climate at work creates conflict that escalates into harsh highly personified conflicts where the total destruction of the opponent is seen as the ultimate goal to be gained by parties (Van de Vliert, 1998). In such highly escalated conflict, aggressive behavior is a common tactic used to show resentment about perceived wrongdoings by ones opponents. Although many interpersonal struggles and conflicts are a natural part of human interactions, there is a thin line between interpersonal personal conflict and the aggressive behaviors that are labeled as bullying. In conflict-related bullying, oppone nts value as a person is denied leading to manipulation, retaliation elimination and destruction (Einarsen, 2000). Cultural Diversity Concept of Diversity The issue of addressing diversity is still a difficulty for organizations in this 21st century (Jackson Aparna 2010). Previously, diversity was defined as a characteristic of groups of two or more people and that commonly relates to demographic differences of one sort or another among members of a working team (McGrath, Berdahl, and Arrow, 1995).Van Knippenberg and Schippers (2007) define diversity as a characteristic of social grouping that reflects the degree to which objective or subjective differences exist between group members. Research in workplace diversity has quadrupled in the last few decades, yet, most of the outcomes demonstrate that diversity has paradoxical effects on team processes and outcomes (Joshi, Liao Roh, 2011, Jackson, Joshi and Erhardt, 2003, Milliken Martins 1996, Williams OReilly 1998). Diverse teams have been found to experience process and performance losses, as evidenced by less positive attitudes, reduced communication, and a higher likelihood of leaving a working team (Riordan Shore, 1997). Recent works have also identified the conditions, such as employee involvement that must be in place for diversity to generate organizational benefits (e.g. Yang Konrad, 2011). Cultural Diversity Double Effect and Dimensions Diversity is a subjective phenomenon, created by group members themselves who on the basis of their different social identities categorize others as similar or dissimilar: A group is diverse if it is composed of individuals who differ on a characteristic on which they base their own social identity [OReilly, Williams, Barsade 1998, p. 186]. Loden Rosener [1991] define diversity as characteristics which differentiate one group of people from another along with primary, secondary and tertiary dimensions as shown in the table below Table 1. Dimensions of Diversity Primary dimensions Secondary dimensions Tertiary dimensions à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Race à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Ethnicity à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Gender à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Age à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Disability à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Religion à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Culture à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Sexual orientation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Thinking style à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Geographic origin à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Family status à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Lifestyle à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Economic status à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Political orientation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Work experience à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Education à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Language à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Nationality à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Beliefs à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Assumptions à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Perceptions à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Attitudes à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Feelings à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Values à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Group norms Source: based on R. Rijamampinina, T. Carmichael, A Pragmatic and Holistic Approach to Managing Diversity. Problems and Perspectives in Management, 1/2005, p. 109. In sum, the presented above research debates that diversity might have positive and negative contributions to organizational functioning depending on its level. The most negative outcome of cultural and workplace diversity was found to be conflict (Jehn, Northcraft, Neale, 1999; Pelled, 1996; Olson, Parayitam Bao, 2007). Workgroup diversity is associated with conflict in teams, both task conflict and relationship conflict (Ayoko, Hartel, Callan, 2002, Chatman Flynn, 2001; Jehn, Chadwick, Thatcher, 1997; Jehn et al, 1999; Pelled, 1996; Pelled, Xin, Weiss, 2001). The conflict resulting from workgroup diversity has the potential to benefit performance if it generates the elaboration of more possibilities and perspectives in problem-solving discussions (van Knippenberg, De Dreu, Homan, 2004). The Meta-analytic research linking both task and relationship conflict to poorer performance have demonstrated that workgroup conflicts often do not result in positive outcomes (De Dreu Weingart, 2003). Additionally, new evidence emerging from another meta-analytical study (de Wit, Greer Jehn, 2011) suggests that while relationship and process conflict are negatively linked with performance, the effect of task conflict on outcomes is even more complex indicating that task conflict is only associated with positive outcomes when the link between task and relationship conflict is weak. There is substantial literature which argues that diversity has performance advantages over homogenous work structures [Cox, Lobel and MacLeod 1991]. First, multicultural organizations have an advantage in attracting and retaining the best talent. The capabilities of women and minorities offer a wider labor pool. Organizations that is able to attract and retain qualified minority group members and keep faith with them through fair and equitable career advancement treatments, gain competitive advantage and derive high quality human resources dividends. Second, a multicultural organization is better suited to serve a diverse external clientele in a more increasingly global market. Such organizations have a better understanding of the requirements of the legal, political, social, economic and cultural environments of foreign nations [Adler 1991]. Third, in research-oriented and hi-tech industries, the broad base of talents generated by a gender-and ethnic-diverse organization becomes a priceless advantage. Creativity thrives on diversity [Morgan 1989]. Fourth, multicultural organizations are found to be better at problem solving, possess better ability to extract expanded meanings, and are more likely to display multiple perspectives and interpretations in dealing with complex issues. Such organizations are less susceptible to groupthink. Fifth, multicultural organizations tend to possess more organizational flexibility, and are better able to adapt to changes. Women, for instance, are said to have higher tolerance for ambiguity than men [Rotter OConnell 1982]. Diversity has some drawbacks which moderate its significant advantages. In problem-solving situations, extraordinary costs in time and financial resources can negate the benefits of synergy, and can even degenerate into dysfunctional conflicts. Diversity does not fare as well under conditions of uncertainty and complexity which may lead to confusion and frustration. Diversity can make it harder to arrive at an agreement on a particular course of action, and can result in negative dynamics and cultural clashes that can create work disadvantages for women and minorities. Traditionally, cultural conflicts between majority and minority group members are usually resolved in favor of the majority groups. This, in turn, creates significant barriers to full participation by minority members in potentially conflict situations. In an analysis of 151 work groups, Tsui, Egan and OReilly [1992] found diversity to be associated with lower levels of psychological identification with group members w hich would tend to detract from overall performance and result in adverse effects on organizational measures of productivity, absenteeism and turnover. Homogenous groups have been reported to outperform culturally diverse groups especially where there are serious communication issues which make it more difficult for everybody to make optimal contributions to the group effort. Higher turnover and absenteeism are special problems identified with multi-cultural organizations. Several research studies since the 1960s have found women and other minorities to be consistently higher on absenteeism and turnover than their majority-member counterparts. In a study of twenty work units, OReilly, Caldwell and Barnett [1989] concluded that heterogeneity in groups was associated with lower levels of group social integration which resulted in higher individual turnover. They concluded that out-group members were more likely to leave the organization. Using a hypothetical company of 10,000 employees, Cox estimated that absentee differences attributable to multiculturalism would cost a company an average of three million dollars per year [Cox 1993, p. 25]. Milliken and Martins [1996] argued that diversity can affect an organizations functioning through four types of mediating variables. First, diversity can have affective consequences, such as lower organizational commitment or lower satisfaction, because people prefer interactions with similar others. Second, cognitive outcomes refer to an increase in creativity and innovation. Diversity can enhance a groups ability to gather and process information and therefore it could result in a greater creativity. Third, a diverse organizational workforce is a symbol of equality. These symbolic effects are important for an organizations reputation. And last, diversity also has clear implications on the communication process within a group or organization, i.e. communication effects. Milliken and Martins typology takes into account the fact the diversity can have both positive and negative effects on the functioning of organizations. Also Benschop [1999] argued that their typology provides a clea r view on the effects of diversity on an organizations functioning. Communication Role of Communication Openness Stuart Sillars(1998: pg 21) define communication as the giving, receiving or exchanging of information, opinions or ideas by writing, speech or visual means or any combination of the three so that the material communicated is completely understand by everyone concerned. Communication has been seen to assist organizations undergoing change by breaking down the resistance among workers and increasing their trust in the impending changes (Graham and LeBaron, 1994). Communication is also considered to be a means of resolving conflicts. When a group is meeting a goal, there are internal and external problems and one of the only ways to resolve the problem is via communication (Appelbaum et al., 1999). Communication is considered to be particularly beneficial when new recruits enter a work place. To make sense and to settle into the new environment, communication is considered to be particularly important (Jablin and Krone, 1987). Communication openness is defined as the ease of talking to each other in the group and the extent of understanding gained when people talk to other group members. According to Pelled et al. (1999), demographic diversity is linked with increased difficulties i

Essay --

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald Fiction Setting: In the early 20s in Long Island and New York # of pages: 180 Diem Ha Setting The Great Gatsby takes place after WWI in Long Island and New York during the early 1920s. There are two main areas in The Great Gatsby, the â€Å"West Egg† and the â€Å"East Egg†. People that are wealthy and are rich live in the â€Å"East Egg† and people with less fortune and are poor live in the â€Å"West Egg†. There is a separation between the rich and the poor. Characters Jay Gatsby- The protagonist in The Great Gatsby is Jay Gatsby. He is called Gatsby throughout the novel. Gatsby grew up poor, but he had always yearned for wealth. Though he wanted to be rich and have money, he had always had his mind on Daisy, a woman he met in Louisville before being stationed in to fight in WWI. Gatsby wants the money and the wealth even more after meeting Daisy. Gatsby began to do all he could to win back Daisy’s heart. Tom Buchanan- The antagonist in The Great Gatsby is Tom Buchanan. He is a very arrogant man and he reeked with wealth. Tom married to Daisy before Gatsby could get to Daisy. Tom was racist and he was a bully towards others. Even though Tom was having an affair himself, with Myrtle, he became viscous when he heard Daisy and Gatsby were having an affair. Nick Carraway- The narrator of this novel, The Great Gatsby, is Nick Carraway. Nick was a young gentleman that grew up in Minnesota. Nick was honest and well educated. He had moved to the West Egg and became friends with Gatsby, his neighbor. He then learned of Gatsby and Daisy’s affair, and he watches their romance. Nick is the cousin of Daisy Buchanan. Daisy Buchanan - Daisy is Nick’s cousin; Tom’s wife; Gatsby’s lover. While in Louisville, Dai... ...t of non-olfactory money" (Fitzgerald, 68). This is an example of imagery because you could imagine the city rising up the river and there is a vivid image. â€Å"His station wagon scampered like a brisk yellow bug to meet all trains.† (Fitzgerald 39) This is an example of a simile because the author is stating how fast the station wagon went and comparing it, using ‘like’, to a bug. Concluding Diem Ha The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald Is wealth really worth it? Does it matter if you are rich or poor? When someone has a great amount of wealth it doesn’t mean that their lives are going perfectly fine. Wealth cannot buy happiness or love. Why go after a dream when your life is going to be ruined just because of dishonesty? When you love someone, you would be willing to do what you can for them. Is it worth it or is it just a waste of time and effort? Diem Ha

Corruption of Culture Essay

In Yukio Mishima’s â€Å"Swaddling Clothes† we see a great deal of symbolism portraying the corruption of the Japanese culture. The times are changing and with that change, culture is adapting to it. Some of the Japanese feel threatened and that the changes that are being made are corrupting their moral values. The story is told through Toshiko, a lonely and seemingly oppressed wife and mother. She shows how this corruption is leading to decay. The story depicts the corruption of Japanese culture by western modernization. Japanese culture is becoming more westernized, â€Å"unhomely with its Western-style furniture†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (366). The air of the room being unhomely because some Japanese thought that Western-style was corrupt. Toshiko’s husband is accepting these changes, â€Å"sitting there in his American-style suit, puffing at a cigarette† (366). The city they live in is changing as well, â€Å"dotted with bars and then by a theatre† (368). The park that Toshiko visits had also changed, â€Å"The paper lanterns that hung from wires between the trees had been put out; in their place electric light bulbs†¦that shone dully beneath the blossoms† (369). The word dully being used to show that western-style is dull and dreary. Violence is one of the concepts Toshiko relates to western culture. Toshiko believes western style is violent, â€Å"his frail body was wrapped in bloodstained newspapers† (367), showing the degradation of moral values in this westernized society. When Toshiko’s husband is sitting there talking with his friends he jokes about the incident and stating â€Å"I rescued our good rug†¦ (367), this showing that his mind is corrupt with the western culture because he did not care about the well being of the nurse and the blood did not faze him. The baby is a symbol of the violence in the western culture as well. The way the baby was born was out of wedlock, â€Å"Even if that baby should grow up in ignorance of the secret of his birth, he can never become a respectable citizen† (368). Toshiko worries that the baby â€Å"who has been sinned against† (368) may come in contact with her son one day and, â€Å"savagely stab him with a knife†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (368). All because the baby was born out  of wedlock, due to Western mod ernization, Toshiko thinks of him as violent and evil. Western culture is not only seen as violent but as polluted as well. Western-style is also polluting their society. While walking in the park Toshiko notices that the people â€Å"would automatically kick aside the empty bottles or crush the waste paper beneath their feet† (369). Waste pollution not only being the kind of pollution polluting their society but moral pollution as well. Toshiko sees a homeless man and wonders â€Å"was it one of those miserable drunks often to be seen sleeping in public places?† (369). The homeless man in the park is a symbol of the baby that will grow up to be in crime and poverty, though what is most significant is the way that he is dressed, â€Å"his khaki trousers had been slightly pulled up† (370), this showing that he is westernized just like Toshiko’s husband. Toshiko is saddened by this westernized lifestyle. This story shows through many elements the degradation of moral values in the modern westernized changes that are taking place. Through the moral changes, the violence of the western culture, and the pollution we have seen that Toshiko believes that her society is corrupt. There are many symbols showing these changes; through the baby, Toshiko’s husband, and through the homeless. She continually contemplates the loss of their moral values and is saddened. Ultimately this story is trying to depict the corruption of Japanese culture by western modernization.

Princess Diana essays

Princess Diana essays In a changing world like ours today there is many uncertainties. There is one thing we are sure about, that's our own pass. When you look back at your life are you gonna see yourself as a leader or a follower? There is one woman from the last century, one that sticks out, to have been a leader for us. With the dawn of a new millenium upon us we need more women like Princess Diana to step up and become leaders in this changing world. Born July 1, 1961 near Sandringham, Norfolk. She was not born into poverty or had a rough life growing up. Her case was far from rags to riches story, like many want to believe. She was raised to be a good person, not having to rise above adversity. As a young girl she received her studies while she attended preparatory school in Riddlesworth Hall, in Diss, Norfolk. This is where she got basically what we get at our elementary schools. Around the age 13 in 1974 she went as a boarder to West Heath, in Sevenoaks, Kent. While studying there she showed talent as a musician, for playing the piano, dancing and domestic science. She was also once awarded for the girl giving maximum help to the school and her school fellows. In 1977 she left West Heath and went to finishing school at the Institute Alpin Videmanette in Rougemont, Switzerland. After the Easter term in 1978 she left the school when she moved to Coleherne. There she watched after a child for an American couple, while she began her job as a kindergarten teacher at the Young England school in Pimlice, London. Like most teachers she didn't have a lot of spare time on her hands, but when she got the chance for a break her and her three roommates would go skiing. A sport Diana loved very much and tried to enjoy as often as possible. In a changing world like ours today there is many uncertainties. There is one thing we are sure about, that's our own pass. When you look back at y ...

How to Make Glow in the Dark Slime

How to Make Glow in the Dark Slime It only takes one more ingredient to turn normal slime into glowing slime. This is a great Halloween project, though its fun for any time of the year. Glowing slime is safe for kids to make. Difficulty: Easy Time Required: about 15 minutes Materials for Glow in the Dark Slime Elmers glue gel or 4%  polyvinyl alcohol  solution4% (saturated) borax solutionPhosphorescent zinc sulfide (ZnS) or glowing paintMeasuring cups/spoonsBowl or zip-top plastic baggieSpoon (optional) Make Glowing Slime Basically, you make glowing slime by adding zinc sulfide or glowing paint to normal slime. These instructions make a clear slime that glows in the dark. However, you could add zinc sulfide to any of the recipes for slime with different characteristics.The slime is made by preparing two separate solutions, which are then mixed. You can double, triple, etc. the recipe if you want more slime. The ratio is 3 parts PVA or glue solution to 1 part borax solution, with a little glow-in-the-dark agent thrown in (measurement isnt critical).First, lets prepare the glue gel or polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution. If you have polyvinyl alcohol, you want to make a 4% polyvinyl alcohol solution. 4 grams of PVA in 100 ml of water is great, but the project still works if your solution is a different percent of PVA (just takes more or less). Most people do not have PVA sitting around their homes. You can make a glue gel solution by mixing 1 part of glue gel (either clear or pale blue) with 3 parts of war m water. For example, you could mix 1 tablespoon glue with 3 tablespoons warm water, or 1/3 cup glue with 1 cup of warm water. Stir the glow agent into the glue gel or PVA solution. You want 1/8 teaspoon of zinc sulfide powder per 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of solution. If you cannot find zinc sulfide powder, you can stir in some glow-in-the-dark paint. You can find glowing paint at some paint stores or glowing paint powder (which is zinc sulfide) at craft or hobby stores. The zinc sulfide or paint powder will not dissolve. You just want it mixed in really well. Please read the label on the paint to make sure it is safe enough for your purposes.The other solution you need is a saturated borax solution. If you are in a chemistry lab, you can make this by mixing 4 g of borax with 100 ml warm water. Again, most of us arent going to be doing the project in a lab. You can make a saturated borax solution by stirring borax into warm water until it stops dissolving, leaving borax at the bottom of the glass.Mix together 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of PVA or glue gel solution with 10 ml (2 teaspoons) of borax solution. You can u se a spoon and a cup or you can just squish it together with your hands or inside a sealed baggie. The phosphorescent glow is activated by shining a light on the slime. Then you turn out the lights and it will glow. Please dont eat the slime. The slime solution itself isnt exactly toxic, but it isnt good for you, either. Zinc sulfide can be irritating to the skin, so wash your hands after playing with this slime. It may be harmful if swallowed, not because ZnS is toxic, but because it can react to form hydrogen sulfide gas, which isnt great for you. In a nutshell: wash your hands after using the slime and do not eat it. Do not inhale or ingest the glow-in-the-dark ingredient, whichever you choose to use.Store your slime in a baggie or other sealed container to keep it from evaporating. You can refrigerate it if desired. The slime cleans up well with soap and water. Tips for Slime Success The glowing slime in the photo was made using  a glowing paint called Glow Away at Michaels craft store, for $1.99, that is good for many, many batches of glowing slime (or other glowing projects). Its safe, washes away with water, and is easy to mix into the slime gel. It was located with the tempera paints. Other products may work equally well, just be sure to check the label for safety information.Instead of zinc sulfide (the compound used to make plastic glow-in-the-dark stars), you can substitute any phosphorescent pigment. Be sure the product is marked phosphorescent (glows in the dark) and not fluorescent (glows only under black light).You can use Elmers non-toxic blue glue gel for this project, sold with school supplies, but there is a clear glue gel made by another manufacturer, plus there are red or blue glue gels with stars and glitter that you could use.Usually, borax is sold in stores right next to laundry detergent. If you dont see it there, try looking near household cleaning chemicals or on the insecticide aisle (note: boric acid isnt the same chemical, so its not a good idea to  make substitutions).

Sugar Industry Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Sugar Industry - Research Paper Example The U.S. sugar industry saved the domestic players from the changing world prices of sugars. For importing sugar, the U.S. has to pay an import price which also includes import duties. However, it has been found that there occurs a significant gap between the import prices and the market prices. The reasons of the volatility of the market prices could be the unbalanced supply which may result from high costs of production, implying that small changes in the supply may have significant price effects. (Agricultural trade policies in the new millennium) (Kennedy & Koo 156) The U.S. followed a sugar system which was meant to protect the domestic sugar producers from the volatile and high global market prices. This system led to almost double prices for sugar than the market prices. However, in the year 1989, the traditional quotas were changed and a new tariff quota was being followed which led to paying an extra duty, thereby allowing imports to respond to greater demands. From the 1990 s, there was demand for change in policies, when the World Trade Organization, came into being (Vaughan, & France 25-29).The sugar program in the U.S. helps the domestic producers through a loan program which guarantees the producers a minimum market price for the sugar they produce. However, this has to operate without any cost to the government. In order to prevent losses, the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) has to keep the prices up, and the import quota plays a crucial role in this. The tariff rate quota allows a lower level of imports at a low tariff level, that is, restrictions are made to the foreign supply of sugars. (The U.S. Sugar Program, 18-19). As per researches, the U.S. sugar program increases costs to the U.S. sweetener users. The government, not paying directly to the producers, lists the costs to the users of sweeteners. As a result there is a gap between the import prices and the prevailing market prices. Thus the users pay more which benefits the producers. Keeping the prices high, protection is obtained against forfeiture or loss in terms of loans or other factors, and helps the producers to recover loan rates, and other costs like transportation. (The U.S. Sugar Program, 24-25). Manufacturers who produce substitutes for sugar also benefit from the sugar program. However, the benefits from the sugar program are not always profits. Profits are dependent on production and efficiency of the producer. (The U.S. Sugar Program, 33-35). Consumers and taxpayers enjoy several benefits from the U.S. sugar program. The American economy benefits from the policies by

Management Research Project; Hiring Function Recruitment and Selected Paper

Management Project; Hiring Function Recruitment and Selected - Research Paper Example The process that has been used in this particular research paper would be incorporated into the research study so as to identify the deficiencies of GOME electric company and ways to eliminate them from the system. The research topic that has been selected is an analysis on the hiring, recruitment and selection function of the GOME electric company in China. The topic is very advantageous from the point of view of reviewer and also from the perspective of organization. This research study would enable the organization that has been selected to improve its level of efficiency and even save the overall cost that is associated with the execution of business operations. The company occupies a large market shares in the retail industry of electronics in China and has also been able to enhance its distribution operation across other regions. The reviewer has a work experience in the selected organization and so the deficiency in hiring and selection process can be easily highlighted. The report structure would comprise of primarily a research objective and questions followed by conceptual foundation. The findings of the research would be based on focus group study and interviews with key personnel of the organization which would be supported by secondary data. The purpose of the research paper that has been selected for the particular research study has been to enhance the aspect of technology in all possible sectors. The research paper states that technology is a part of everyday lives and has a great importance in the human resource management. The concept of technology lessens the cost and at the same time even enables the job seekers to explore more opportunities in the least possible time. The research aim was to identify the various advantages as well as disadvantages of incorporating e-recruitment in the system. The rationale of the research paper is that the findings of this particular paper would be beneficial for other organization as well as job