Walmart Case Essay Example For Students

Walmart Case Essay Definition of Main Problem: There can be no argument that Wal*Mart has revolutionized the discount retailing industry. Furthermore, CEO Glass and COO Soderquist have stepped in at the helm of this company and continued to take it in the right direction by quadrupling sales and profits from 1987 to 1993. The main problem they now face is how to sustain their phenomenal performance, and becoming number one has magnified this issue. No longer can they just sneak into small towns where the only competition is the local merchants shop. No longer can they copy larger companies like Sears and J. C. Pennys because of their size and scope. The fact is, Wal*Mart is bigger than these companies and their direct competitors Kmart and Target are doing everything in their power to close that gap. They are lurking not so quietly in the shadows, benefiting from Wal*Marts past choices, successes, and failures. They are there to blow the whistle if Wal*Mart steps outside the lines. Wal*Mart may be growing, but at a rate under 10% for the first time in years. Shareholders are concerned, the press is relentless, and many obstacles lie in their path if they hope to continue the trends Sam Walton set so ambitiously in 1962. Analysis: With one of their main issues being sustained profitability, Wal*Mart is at a critical time in their life. They are no longer the hero, a place commonly reserved for competitors striving to be number one, because Wal*Mart is number one. No one can debate how effective they have been in getting here. Through their focus on superior technology and low cost leadership, Wal*Mart reigned supreme. They are redefining Porters five forces model in the discount retailing industry, and are in the enviable position of having first movers advantage. We will write a custom essay on Walmart Case specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now Yet this blessing is also a curse. By virtue of their efficient, effective system and its proven success, companies like Kmart and Target are watching closely and both emulating and improving upon this system. An analysis of the five forces model will show Wal*Marts main competitive advantages in supplier power and barriers to entry. A look into their distribution centers and how they have been instrumental in reducing supplier power will be followed by an analysis of how effective first mover advantage has been and where they must take it next. Early in the history of the company, Walton recognized the importance of backward integration as a means to pass on lower prices to consumers. Though supplier power is high in the retail discounting industry, Wal*Mart changed the game with their two-step hub-and-spoke distribution network. Though building 1,000,000 square foot distribution centers seems costly, it allows Wal*Mart to purchase from their suppliers at a significantly reduced cost and deliver to their stores with 48 hours, sometimes even 24 hours. The networks become so effective that 80% of their inventory comes directly from these 27 centers. In contrast, Kmart has only 50% of their products coming from distribution centers with a full half being shipped directly from suppliers into their stores, thus raising costs to Kmart and their customers. Systems such as cross-docking are also aiding Wal*Mart in their fight to streamline every process by reducing inventory and restocking costs. Another decision that demonstrates Wal*Marts commitment to the future is their unyielding emphasis on superior information technology. Beginning in 1983 and standard by 1988, electronic scanning of Uniform Product Codes was installed in Wal*Mart stores. This and similar programs were effective in ensuring accurate pricing and reducing shrinkage, yet Kmart recognized its importance as well, and by 1990, had similar systems in place in its stores as well. Secondly, a $700 million investment in satellite systems made communication between headquarters, distribution centers, and stores much more effective. With this in place, sales data could be analyzed immediately and effectively, and Wal*Mart could better control inventory levels as well. Also instrumental as a means to achieving these ends was electronic data interchange. While UPC and satellite systems allowed sales to be collected and analyzed daily, EDI enabled 3,600 vendors to receive orders and interact with Wal*Mart electronically. All of these systems provided Wal*Mart the leeway to charge lower prices than their competitors, and though no supplier accounted for .

Why One Suffix Is More Common Than Another

Why One Suffix Is More Common Than Another Why One Suffix Is More Common Than Another Why One Suffix Is More Common Than Another By Mark Nichol What is the rationale, if any, for the predominance of one suffix over one that performs the same function? Last week, I discussed the question of choosing between the suffixes -logic and -logical. Here, I take a look at other suffixes that compete with each other when various parts of speech are converted to others. The suffix ize is adopted for most multisyllabic words; by contrast, -ify is rarely applied to words of more than one syllable. The rationale given for this rule, that one choice or the other simply feels right, bears out: Even if I didn’t know the adjectival form of apology, I would more likely say apologize than apologify; the same goes for minimize over minimify, revolutionize over revolutionify, and just about any other applicable word I can think of. (Electrify, rather than electricize, is one exception.) Often, more than one correct adjective exists for a given word, but one form seems more formal than the other. For example, both accountability and accountableness are acceptable (another example is the duo profanity/profaneness), but although -ness is more common, -ity is considered more proper. Certain suffixes go in and out of style. For example, -th long ago fell out of favor as an option for converting an adjective to a noun, and -ment has essentially been retired as a go-to suffix for new words. The same is true of -ar as a suffix indicating transformation from a verb to a noun; though -ar is common among existing words, -er is not only much more common but is also the default suffix for new coinages. When a word has more than one possible suffix, the alternatives may develop different connotations. For example, profaneness refers, among other senses, to irreverent or unholy things, while profanity has come to denote the quality or state of being profane, or the speaking or writing of profane language, or such language itself. Another example is the development of cynical when cynic became a noun as well as an adjective. Some suffixes develop distinct qualities. For example, -ive, based on Latin words ending in -vus but extended to non-Latinate words as well, implies a permanent state, as exemplified by the difference in nuance between attracting and attractive. Because of the variety of likely suffixes, it’s best to consult the dictionary or an authoritative resource if you’re uncertain about the proper appendage for a particular word. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Spelling category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:100 Whimsical WordsDoes "Mr" Take a Period?Captain vs. Master

Part 1. 1500 words Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Part 1. 1500 words - Essay Example In addition, I make mistakes while choosing the right methods for the projects. I am sure that I can overcome from these problems and turn these weak points into my strengths by conducting a research on the basis of certain criteria. The topic of the project is â€Å"Human Resource (HR) Issues Related to Cultural Diversity Faced by Marks and Spencer in China†. I have chosen this topic for this particular study to evaluate cultural diversity of Wu Han, where the company Marks & Spencer (M&S) wants to expand business operations (Alon, 2000). This particular study has facilitated in elaborating the issues of cultural diversity and the implications that these issues would have on the work environment and culture of M&S. Accordingly, I have ascertained the importance of Human Resource Management can be identified for resolving these issues on the basis of strategies (Lauby, 2005). This particular research aims to study about the issues of the employees regarding cultural diversity in Wu Han, China. It is the core duty of the company i.e. M&S to ascertain that issues that may be faced by the employees, so that effective measures can be implemented with the intention of mitigating these issues for better sustainability of the company in the long run. Employees’ individual growth is related to M&S overall growth. In this respect, it is important to recognize critical issues related to work environment of M&S to meet the objectives of the company (Albrecht, 2010). Accordingly, I have related the subject of the study on the consumers as well as the employees of the company to determine the issues associated with cultural diversity in Wu Han, China. In addition, I have conducted a survey about the services, which are provided by the company to have a better understanding about the perceptions of the customers about their preferences, so that quality products can be offered on the basis

Finance and Accounting Assignment Math Problem Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Finance and Accounting Assignment - Math Problem Example Since in this case, the payment is done at the beginning of the period every time, hence it is a case of an immediate annuity as each yearly payment is allowable to compound for an additional year as compared to the normal annuity case. In this context, Future Value of Annuity = A [{(1+i) ^n -1} / i] (Finance Formulas., n.d.) Where, A= Annual payment, i= interest rate per year, n= number of periods As in this case, each annual payment is completed at the start of each period, the same is allowed to compound for one extra period and hence its future value would be the product of value of a matching normal annuity and (1+ interest rate). Future Value of Annuity Due = (1+i) * A [{(1+i)^n -1} / i ] (Finance Formulas., n.d.) The 65th birthday is the day the person wants to have $2 million in the savings account. It should also be kept in mind that a payment is made even on the last day i.e. on the 65th birthday. This last payment does not get a chance to be compounded and has to be simply added to the compounded value of the earlier made 35 payments. In the Future Value of Annuity Due formulae, it has to be noted that the last cash payment is made one year prior to the end of the 35th year. Keeping in mind that a payment will be made even on the last day of 35 year period, the formulae for calculating the required annual payment would be, Future Value, FV = (1+i) * A [{(1+i)^n -1} / i ] + A A = F/ [ {((1+i)^n-1)/i} * (1+i) +1] It is decided that the person needs $2 million at the end of 35 years period, so in this scenario the Future Value would be $2 million. In this case, FV= $2000000, i= 5%, n= 35 years. Putting these values in the above equation, Annual Payment, A = 20,868.91 = $ 20,870 (approx) Thus, the person has to put aside $ 20,869 (approx) each year to make sure that he has $ 2 million in the savings account on the 65th birthday. Problem 36 The person realizes that since the income would increase over the years it would be advisable to save less now and m ore in the later years. Thus, instead of putting the same amount aside, the person has altered his plans to let the amount to be set aside grow by 3% per year. This is a case of growing annuity which is similar to annuity as both ends after a certain period, however, growing annuity payments increase at a fixed constant rate unlike the annuity. It should be noted that since the first annual payment to the savings account is made today and continuing to do so on each birthday up to as well as including the 65th birthday, the number of periods would be 36. The formula for Future Value of Growing Annuity is, FV = A [{(1+i)^n – (1+g)^n } / (i-g) ] (Finance Formulas., n.d.) Where A= First payment, i= interest rate, g= growth rate, n= number of periods Hence, The First Payment, A = FV * [(i-g)/ {(1+i)^n – (1+g)^n }] Here, FV= $2000000, i = 5%, g = 3%, n = 36. Putting these values in the above equation, First Payment = 13,823.91 = $ 13,824 (approx) Thus, the person will have to put $ 13,824 (approx) into the savings account today and keep on increasing the succeeding payments at a growth rate of 3% per year in order to get $ 2 million in the savings account on the 65th birthday. References Finance Formulas. (n.d.). Future Value of Annuity. Retrieved July 14, 2011, from

Al Qaidas Next Major Domestic Attack on the United States Essay

Al Qaidas Next Major Domestic Attack on the United States - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that 21st century marked with the huge terrorist threat over the world. It goes without saying that, the Al Qaeda is the most notorious among those terrorist groups. This group maintains a vast and organized networks throughout the world. Now the Al Queda is likely to launch a huge terrorist attack mainly on the non-Islamic and developed countries of the world. Now the most warned target of Al Qaeda's massive terrorist attack in the U.S.A. However, it started its full-fledged attack on September 11, 2001, on U.S.A resulting in the ‘World Trade Centre’ totally damaged and U.S.A defense installation Pentagon was also affected badly.Though the two famous American intelligence agencies FBI and CIA guessed about the probability of a terrorist attack they could not imagine that could be such a terrible one. However, from that time those intelligent agencies are very much conscious about the further possibility of any massive terroris t attack on U.S.A by Al-Qaeda or any other terrorist group. The plan, which is focused for the first time in the Australian publication that their duration is of seven phases. They started their first horrible activities concerning U.S.A on 11th September in 2001 A.D. On that very day they attacked the world trade center known as 9/11 attack. the object of this was the awakening in the consciousness of   Mohammedans all over the world and aimed at provoking the U.S.A into announcing war on the Muslim world and mobilizing radicals.... The battalion is also spread all over the world and devoted to their assigned afforded to form their own secret battalion which is huge in number and scientifically trained. The battalion is also spread all over the world and devoted to their assigned who are not fearful about their lives rather interested to even sacrifice themselves for the sake of Islam. However another alarming thing is that, Al Qaeda does not have face any difficulties to manage the necessary manpower from the third world Islamic countries. Due to economic insufficiency and lack of proper knowledge of Islam those people do not hesitate in joining Al Qaeda network. As an ultimate result Al Qaeda is increasing its network across the world within the least possible time. 3. Probably in the year 2010 the world is going to see a terrible aggression on the secular countries like Turkey and archenemy Israel. Al Qaeda is likely take preparation towards this direction. They insist on the principle that, no anti-Islam power will be shared from the attack of al Qaeda. 4. Another alarming plan of Al Qaeda is that, it decided to run a massive attack on the hatred Arab regimes, including Saudi Arabia and Jordan and other countries. Because, those countries are the main oil suppliers of the U.S.A and other non-Muslim western countries. Attacking them, Al Qaeda wishes to destroy the enriched economy of the U.S.A creating a bar in the oil production and it's supply process to U.S.A. They also threat that the U.S.A economy will be affected with serious cyber terrorism. This attack may take place with the beginning of the year 2013 in a pre-planed way. 5. IN this phase Al Qaeda group extremely expect to establish an

In Depth Analysis Of Mary Shelleys Frankenstein English Literature Essay

In Depth Analysis Of Mary Shelleys Frankenstein English Literature Essay Mary Shelly was a British novel writer, who name before marriage was Mary Godwin. Born in London, her mother was a feminist, and her father a political philosopher. When she was younger her beloved mother pasted away, she and her brother was taken cared of by her father. A year after her mothers death her father published Memoirs of the Author of A Vindication of the Rights of Woman, Mary read the memoirs along with books written by her mother. She tends to self-educate herself and started to write at the age of eight, and at the age of ten published her first poem. Since her father had well-known intellectual friends, she would learn from them. Mary fell in love with her one of her fathers friends Percy Shelley. This uncontrollable love caused her to run away with him at the age of sixteen, and they married in 1816, when Percys wife committed suicide. Mary had two kids, a daughter and a son, unfortunately they both died, and she also has a miscarried. Along with that Percy also died . This was when she started to write gloomy novels, such as The Last Man. After Percys death she become friends with Jane Williams, who she seems to be fond of, but Jane betrayed her with terrible rumor. Out of the entire novel Shelley wrote Frankenstein was the most famous, where decades later it was put on the big screen. Frankenstein was published in 1818. During this year many events occurred in the United States and around the world. During this year the White House officially reopened. On April 13, 1818, a new flag flew on top of the flag poll near, the U.S. Capitol. It represented the Union at the time. The thirteen stripes represented the original colonies and there were twenty stars which was the number of states in the Union in 1818. There was twenty states when the flag was made in April, however there was soon twenty-one states when Illinois entered the Union in a December. Also the well known, abolitionist Frederick Douglas was born on February into slavery.   In May 4th the Netherlands and the English signed a treaty stating that they were against illegal slave handling. By May 24th general Andrew Jackson captured Pensacola Florida. On July 11th Keats writes, In the Cottage Where Burns is Born. Keats also wrote Lines written in the Highlands, and Gadfly . Characteristics of the Genre The Genre of Frankenstein was Gothic Romance. Gothic romance novels came about in the 18th and 19th century. It was first recognized in England. Gothic novels were known as mysteries mixed with horrors. They were usually set against dark backgrounds and harsh settings. The gothic romance novels started getting popular in the United States in the 1960s. Plot Summary The story begins with Walton and his letters to his sister He talks about his journey to the North Pole. He and his crew set out on a ship to begin their voyage. Every event that happens during their trip was told to Margaret by letters. One day as they explore the North Pole, the ship got trapped between two ice bergs. The crew paid close attention to their surroundings and saw a savage like figure in the distance on a dogsled. Being curious they continue to seek for the creature, hours later they found Frankenstein, the sick stranger, and his dogsled near the ship, and brought his aboard. As the stranger recovered, he told Walton his story, so he could teach Walton the dangers of pursuing knowledge. Victor Frankenstein started off explaining his early life. He grew up with in a loving family, with a close relationship with his adopted cousin, Elizabeth and dearest companion Henry. As a youth he became preoccupied with studying outdated theories and studies, that were say as useless. One day he got interested in nature and its actions when he witnesses a lightning storm that amazed him. At the age of seventeen he was sent off to Ingolstadt college. One professor, M. Waldam, inspired Victors with his words of how ancient teachers accomplished none of their promises but the modern ones managed to discover the unknown. These words lit a light bulb in his in that encouraged him to explore the unknown, to unravel the mysteries of creation. In his laboratory he created his own creation, but once it lived, it was a hideous creature. Victor was frightened by the creatures structure, so he ran away and abandoned this own creation. This creation began to roam the streets, and became the ca use of Victor lifes destruction. On the night this he ran away from his creation he found he companion, Henry Clerval, who came to study with Victor. However, when he examined Victors physical and mental being he saw how ill he was, and ended up tending to him instead of studying. Henry would write letters to Victors family informing them about his progress. After many months Victor recovered and began his studies with Henry. While on the other hand the monster roamed around looking for shelter and a to find an understanding about the humans and their language. After days of observations on his journey he saw how different he was from the humans physically. This was why he encountered many brutal events with humans, where they would violently threaten him. Being afraid of coming across a human the monster found that darkness was his friend where his image was hidden in the night. One day he found a place of shelter, living near a cottage, there he observed a family who lived there. Everyday he would study their lang uage, feelings and actions; soon he picked up the language and was also literate. The monster became compassionate with them and then wanted to become friends with the family and decided to reveal himself to them, but they were afraid of him, and rejected his kindness buy beating him with a stick. This incident along with his act of saving a girl from being drowned, where he was rewarded with a gun shot, sparked hatred towards mankind. One day the monster arrived at Geneva, Victors hometown, and met a little boy who he would kidnap and keep him as a companion. He thought that since the boy was still young he could not tell the difference from the monster and himself, so he would take the boy in and express himself to him so the boy would be evidence that he was not the monster he look to be. However, he quickly found out that the boy was Victors younger brother, William Frankenstein, so the monster killed him as revenge towards his creator. When he was in the cottage he listened to stories read by Felix, the son of the family, about mischief actions and he planned a way to frame a person for the murder. He placed the necklace he removed from William and put it in the pocket of Justine, a adopted girl that took care of William ever since he was young. Victor was quickly informed of his brothers death, and he went back to be with his family and most importantly console his beloved Elizabeth. When he arrived it was already nighttime, on his way he saw an unclear figure, it was massive and hideous, he soon realized that it was the monster and concluded that he was murderer. When he came home he found out the Justine, a trustworthy companion of his family, was the one being accused. Victor knew who was the killer but could not tell because it would make him seems insane. Justine was accused guilty and later dies in prison. Victor was full of rage and guilt and went to the mountains to find peace alone. His trip was peaceful, but as he arrived at his destination he was approached by the monster who offered Victor to follow him. There the monster expresses his feelings of being lonely and abandoned by his creator, and ask for companionship from Victor, and if Victor gave this to him he would not hard mankind. The monster also demanded f or Victor to create a female companion for him. Victor refused to be content with the monster, however he did agree to create a companion for him. Afterwards the monster told his own story about his journey once he opened his eyes. The monster tells of his tales of how he had to look for shelter, and how human created him. Also he explained how he learned the human language and the family in the cottage. The monster also confessed to the murder of William, this enraged Victor and caused him to not even thinking about being compassionate to the monster. After the story Victor left and later he and Clerval went to England where he began to formation of a female creature in his lab. He would make this monster compassionate, caring and a moral thinker. When he was almost done, he decided to destroy it, an example of abortion, because he did not want the responsibility of another monster. When the monster was told the news he was angered and gave Victor and warning that he would see him in his wedding. Victor quickly started his journey back home, but before he could his friend Henry was murdered by the monster, Victor being the one accused. Victor planned to marry Elizabeth, when he came home to Geneva, but before he could the monster murdered her as she was in his room, where the monster pointed at her with the devilish grin. Soon after his father also died because of the mournful lose of Elizabeth. From that point, Victor would pursue another goal of destroying the monster, so he went again to the North Pole in search for the monster. This is where Victor met Walton and his crew, and began his dreadful tale. After a few days, Victor finished his story and asked Walton to kill the monster if was to die. After that Victor himself died, and Walton decided to go him, but before they could the monster appeared. The monster looked his creator, mournful of his death and guilty for what disasters he inflicted on his creation. The monster explained that he was the wretch, that he killed the innocents, but he was doing it because he was filled with evil from being rejected and hatred. He expressed his guilt of his murders and t old Walton that he would also die, so all of his feelings or misery is no longer felt and mankind would not have to deal with him. He was soon borne away by the waves and lost in darkness and distance. The novel begins with Walton and his crew along the Artic. This opening provides a way for Victor Frankenstein to tell his tragic tell. In the Artic where it is cold and empty Walton and his crew is on a journey to the North Pole, also Victor was on one of his own to kill his creation. In the letter they can be related to Victor and his past journey. For example, in letter two Walton talks about his dreams and goals, just like Frankenstein he had a goal of creating a new creature. In letter three it describes how lonely Walton is because he had isolated himself from the world to accomplish his goals. Another relation to Victor when you begin to read the novel you will see that he would work day and night in his laboratory, lonely and with no companion. In letter four, Walton tells his sister how he spotted a massive and savage figure in a dogsled across the ice, then later they saved a man, Victor, that was weak and ill that was on a piece of ice. Victor soon learned that Walton was on a journey of knowledge. This idea troubled him, and he warns Walton about the consequences of his journey, but Walton ignored it. Along with the warning he then began to tell his tales about how his search for knowledge ruined his life. Significance of ending/closing scene The novel begins with Walton and his crew along the Artic. This opening provides a way for Victor Frankenstein to tell his tragic tale. In the Artic where it is cold and empty Walton and his crew is on a journey to the North Pole, also Victor was on one of his own to kill his creation. In the letter they can be related to Victor and his past journey. For example, in letter two Walton talks about his dreams and goals, just like Frankenstein he had a goal of creating a new creature. In letter three it describes how lonely Walton is because he had isolated himself from the world to accomplish his goals. Another relation to Victor when you begin to read the novel you will see that he would work day and night in his laboratory, lonely and with no companion. In letter four, Walton tells his sister how he spotted a massive and savage figure in a dogsled across the ice, then later they saved a man, Victor, that was weak and ill that was on a piece of ice. Victor soon learned that Walton was on a journey of knowledge. This idea troubled him, and he warns Walton about the consequences of his journey, but Walton ignored it. Along with the warning he then began to tell his tales about how his search for knowledge ruined his life. Symbols The moon/night- this symbolize how in the darkness of the nighttime the evil will occur. For example, the monster was created on the night of November. Also, in the dark is where the monster roams, and in the novel Victor sees him as a demon and is evil. The Artic- Walton wants to explore the North Pole and see what it has to offer. At this time no one has done this task before so he would like to take the journey to the unknown. Victor chose to go into the unknown mysteries of creation and accomplish something the modern scientist at the time did not figure out, so he seeks a goal to create his own creature. When he created it, ht finds that it destroyed his life and goes to the Artic to seek revenge. However as they reached the Artic they found that it was hard to accomplish what they want. Walton is stuck between two icebergs, and Victor is unable to capture the monster. Therefore the Artic symbolize that mankind can go so far in their dreams and their goals, and once they reached that limit of obtaining knowledge they cannot take in anymore. The De Lancey Family- the monster examined them everyday, and through his observation he found that not all humans are harmful. He was attached to the family and every feeling they feel they connect with them. When they are mournful he is as well, and well they are cheerful he rejoice too. However, he I found out that even with the happy image they represented they were like any other human who was violent and terrified of him. The family symbolizes the disappointments of life. The monster was hopeful that the family would understand him and share their companionship with him, but in the end he was proven wrong when Felix beat him out off the house. Old AP Questions The years in which questions and essays related to Frankenstein   appeared on the AP Exam in 1989, 2000, 2003, 2006, and 2008. Possible Themes The dangers of knowledge can cause misfortunate events, and ruins one life is taken to the extreme, such as devoting all of your time in one goal. Which you cause isolation and loneliness. Support from the text: in the text as Victor told his tale to Walton he also states Learn from me, if not by me preceptsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦how dangerous is the acquirement of knowledge and how much happier that man is who believes his native town to be the world, than he who aspires to become greater than his nature will allow. (p.38). Dream can at times be the destruction of your life. Support from the text: Mingled with this horrorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦dreams that had been my food and pleasant rest for so long a space were now become a hell to me à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the overthrow so complete!(p.42)Victor

Aristotle and Aquinas Essay -- Philosophy essays

Aristotle and Aquinas      Ã‚  Ã‚   Among political theorists, the debate over the rule of law has been quite intense.   From the earliest days of political philosophy through to the enlightenment, there have been varying views on what the rule of law should be.   Two thinkers in particular - Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas - are perhaps the most influential.   On the surface, they both advocate the rule of law as playing a crucial role in society.   But upon deeper analysis, one finds that Aristotle's views sharply contrast with those of Aquinas.   This essay shall attempt to elucidate the disagreement between Aristotle and Aquinas, by first outlining Aristotle's arguments for and against the rule of law, and then by explaining what Aristotle would find inadequate with Aquinas' arguments.      In the third book of Politics (1286a8ff.), Aristotle presents a number of arguments for and against the rule of law.   He begins by posing a question around which his ensuing discussion revolves:    The beginning point of the inquiry if this:   whether it is more advantageous to be ruled by the best man or by the best laws.1    He proceeds to point out that laws only speak of the universal, and that they "do not command a view to circumstance"2   He uses the analogy of an Egyptian doctor to prove his point.   In Egypt, a doctor must follow legal procedure when treating a patient.   It is only after the fourth day that the doctor is legally permitted to use his or her own discretion, and even then, it is at his or her own risk.   Thus, the doctor must follow the prescribed routine (until the fourth day), even if it leads to the death of his patient.   Aristotle uses this example to illustrate that the best regime cannot be one that i... ...le by law, or to fool by law;   that is the question.   And the debate still rages on.    BIBLIOGRAPHY: Lord, Carnes [trans.]   Aristotle, The Politics.   University of Chicago Press; Chicago;   1985 Baumgarth, William P. and Richard J. Regan [eds.]   Aquinas, St. Thomas.   On Law, Morality, and Politics.   Hackett Publishing Company, Indiana;   1998       1 Lord, Carnes [trans.] - Aristotle, The Politics.   P. 111 Ln. 8-9 2 Ibid.  Ã‚   Ln. 11-12 3 Ibid.  Ã‚   Ln. 20-21 4 Ibid.  Ã‚   Ln. 30 5 Ibid.  Ã‚   Ln. 35 6 Ibid.   Pp. 111-112.   Ln.36-37 7 Ibid.   P. 112.   Ln. 2 8 Ibid.  Ã‚   Ln.6 9 Ibid.   P. 114.   Ln 28 10 Ibid.   P. 115.   Ln. 4-5 11 Baumgarth, William P. and Richard J. Regan [eds.]   Aquinas, St. Thomas.   On Law, Morality, and Politics.   P. 57 12 Ibid.  Ã‚   Pp. 57-58 13 Ibid.  Ã‚   P. 58 14 Ibid.  Ã‚   P. 116.   Ln. 28   

How would you direct act 1 scene 3 of Macbeth? Essay

Through this essay, I aim to present my ideas as to how I would direct act 1 scene 7 of Macbeth. I will also analyse the text and explain what I think it means. In my play, the two characters of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth would be like nothing before. Throughout the play, the characters would distinctly change; in fact Macbeth and Lady Macbeth would practically switch rolls. For example, to begin with, Macbeth is soft, weak of mind, and it is Lady Macbeth who leads him and pushes him forward. Through this scene, she should appear to be wicked, even evil, and this should especially stand out in this scene. The point in the scene were I would make this very apparent, are between the lines 54 – 59. Here, lady Macbeth states her loyalty for Macbeth, when she says ‘I have given suck and know how tender ’tis to love the babe that milks me: I would, while it was smiling in my face, have plucked my nipple from his boneless gums and dash the brains out, had I so sworn as you have done to this.’ The way I would direct the actor through this is as follows. I would have her pause between the words ‘smiling’ and ‘in’ to show that the very thought of her child’s face really does have an effect on her, and that she is not all evil, although the insight into this side of LM would be so short the audience should wonder if they even saw it. Then, the phrase ‘dash the brains out’ she would mime a moment, as if she was performing the act. This is just one example of how I want LM co come across in the play; a wicked, scary and evil, but you should have the feeling that she isn’t all bad or perhaps, so wasn’t always this evil. Later though, when Macbeth kills the king he suddenly changes from weak one, to evil one, it should almost appear that LM and M switched characters as at that point LM breaks down, and becomes the weak one of the two. In 16th c, women had a very different role to the one they have today. My research shows this through several ways, but the major one is that if a man considered a woman to be a potentional trouble maker, he would accuse her of being a witch, there by having her killed. This meant that women couldn’t stand out in any way, leaving the responsibilities of gaining honour and power to the men. Through the play I want to show this clearly. I will do so by having LM aggressive while it is only she and M. but as soon as they are in other company, she is quiet and submissive only reminding M by shooting him glare after glare. The way people acted in the 16th c. should show through the play. For instance, honour in the 16th c. was a major part of society. This will show through M character in the play, especially at the beginning of act 1 scene 7, when M is making his soliloquy and telling LM of his decision (to not kill the king). I would direct the actor to strain his voice while making it appear as if he was trying to protect his honour when he says ‘he’s here, in double trust:’ and ‘I am his kin’s man and his subject’ then ‘as his host I should against his murder shut the door’. He should emphasize on the words ‘host’, ‘against’ and ‘kin’s man’. By doing this, the actor is showing that if he were to kill the king, then his honour would be tarnished. At the time the play was written, king James 1 was in power. For this reason I think the play, was written as it would greatly appeal to the king. – ‘The man who killed his fellow king, watch how his life is destroyed!’ I would want this to show through my play, as I want to keep the play as true to the original as possible in this respect, as it would give the play another layer of depth and therefore make it more interesting. My version of this scene would be set in a 16th c. city, during a large feast hosted by the Macbeth’s in the city centre. M is down a side ally when LM joins him part way through the scene. Throughout the scene M and LM are both tense as they are nervous about anyone walking in on them. The reason I would set it in the 16th c. is because honour was a major part of society which is one of my main themes of the play, along with King James being in power at the time. Also in the 16th c. community events involving the entire town/city were not uncommon, making my version of act 1 scene 7 perfectly viable. The reason I’ve chosen to set it in a city is to fit in with the story but to make it totally unique. It would allow for everyone to get drunk including Duncan’s guard, which intern allows the murder to take place in a unique way, with LM and M travailing out doors to reach the king’s quarters. The way this would work is as follows: the king would be down stairs in one of the houses bordering the city centre, with one other man (his guard). While everyone else is asleep, slumped over benches and of the like LM and M would silently make their way over the bodies to the city centre. I would create tension by the music which I would put in place and having some of the people stirring in and out of sleep as the Macbeth’s pass. Then when they finally reach the king’s quarters, a man is lying across the front door causing M to enter through the window. Then when M climbs through the window into the room where Duncan is asleep, the lights will dim leaving, a candle lit glow illuminating the room. When the murder takes place the dim orange glow would dramatically switch to a vibrant blood red. Simultaneously a white light will illuminate both of the Macbeth’s faces showing clearly their expressions. M has a faint grin on his face as he takes strength from the act, while LM shrivels and becomes by far the weaker of the two. This is the point in the play where their characters switch. I would want my play to stand out from the rest, and to do that I would update the language. I think this would help younger students, understand the play resulting in a far wider audience. However I wouldn’t want a very young audience, as it is not suitable. However to keep it in theme with the 16th c. ideas I would not be able to update all the language in the play. An example of this would be in act 1 scene 7 where LM states ‘he has almost supped, why have you left the chamber?’ this would translate into ‘the meal has almost finished, why have you left the feast?’ This still holds much of the original meaning but it is far easier to understand making it more enjoyable for some people. Apart from this, I wouldn’t change anything else in the play, as I think it would distract from the main story because I would be more focused on the alterations than the story line, thus distracting from the meaning of the play. Shakespeare uses this scene to explore several themes. The first of these is honour. I would display this strongly through M before he kills the king, and then after when he has no honour everything falls apart in his life. (What happens to him was written as a warning, to please the king). I would display the transition from honour to dishonour as described earlier. I would also have LM fearful when she realises that she and her husband have made a terrible mistake. This shows that honour is very important and without it you have nothing. The 2nd theme is the concept of people being two faced. This would radiate from LM in this scene. I have chosen this as one of my themes as I think I could get a lot across throughout the play based on this. It tallies well with LM’s character- evil (even though she reveals it to M alone). Through act 1 scene 7 I would have LM be very tense and conscience that someone could over hear their conversation. To emphasise the evil side of her I would not only have her speak slowly between the lines 48-59, but also between lines 35-44. I would have her layer her voice with malice and occasionally pausing for effect. This would create a contrast between the perfect LM and the ‘evil’ wife M. the final theme I will have is power and the need the Macbeth’s have for it. To make this theme stand out in act 1 scene 7, I would have LM labour on the words ‘wouldst thou have that which thou esteem’st the ornament of life,’ these words state, ‘do you not want the highest achievement?’ which is the highest achievement of power. This displays the greed of power and wealth that LM has and simultaneously appealing to her husbands greatest desire- power. In my version of act 1 scene 7, the two characters of M and LM will really show their ‘true colours’. At the beginning of the scene when LM hasn’t yet walked in, M starts off with his soliloquy. This soliloquy is the equivalent to what M is thinking. He states that he doesn’t really want to kill Duncan when he says ‘not bear the knife myself’ it is at this point that M fully decides he will not kill Duncan. After this, all he does is give reasons why it is a good thing he is not going through with murdering him. Through the soliloquy, M talks himself out of murdering his king and ‘kinsman’. He comes up with lots of reasons for instance the king is in ‘double trust’ and he is ‘his host’. This soliloquy should clearly declare the state M’s mind is in as he acts out his thoughts to the audience. The audience should clearly see that M is very unstable and is torn between power and the right thing. †˜But here upon this Blanc and shoal of time, we’d jump the life to come. But in these cares we still have judgement’. However simply reading the words out would not convey the depth of meaning I wish to convey. So I would have the actor show unrest in the first few lines. Then as the soliloquy goes on M should become slowly more confident, then when he reaches his decision not to kill the king, he finally has the courage to hold his head high. This represents the battle going on inside his mind. Once the battle is resolved however M is confident and clear minded as he knows what he thinks he’ll do. Throughout the soliloquy all that can be heard is M talking as the audience are effectively hearing what is inside M’s head. The way M works the issue though his mind is by coming up with lots of reasons why not to kill Duncan, while totally ignoring his greed for power, resulting in a temporary decision. For example he starts of by saying, ‘first as I am his kinsman and his subject strong both against the deed’, then ‘this Duncan have borne his faculties so meek, hath been so clear in his great office that his virtues will plead like angels, trumpet-tongued against the deep damnation of his taking off.’ Then he goes on to say, ‘and pity, like a naked newborn babe striding the blast, or heaven’s cherub s horsed upon the slightest couriers of the air, shall blow the horrid deed in every eye, that tears shell drown the wind.’ Through these examples of M reckoning with himself, we can see an argument which first stacks his honour, ‘first as I am his kinsman and his subject’. And then how he would be effected. It says that the ‘cherubs would blow it in every eye’, and that ‘the wind would be filled with tears’. This shows that, if he does commit the deed, he will be discovered, as ‘angelic children’ watch over Duncan. Which basically means he is in Gods favour, ergo, with God against him, M cannot hope to win, and would surly be found out. When LM walks in at the end of the soliloquy, M tells her that ‘they will do no further in this business’. (That he won’t kill Duncan). When he tells LM this, h er immediate reaction is shock, (I would direct the actor to look taken aback when M says the line ‘He hath honoured me of late,’. It would be it that point because when M says ‘we will proceed no further in this business’ she isn’t quite sure what he means). This would be shortly followed by anger, ‘was the hope drunk wherein you dressed yourself?’ LM then very quickly rallies on M and begins to brutally persuade him again to kill Duncan. First of all, she calls him a coward by saying ‘art thou afraid to be the same in thine own act and valour, as thou art in desire?’ She then goes on to say that he lacks ‘manliness’. However, the stroke that wins M back to her way of thinking is often interpreted as evil, (between lines 54 – 59). These lines show LM terrifying loyalty, and word wise, make her sound totally evil. These lines shock M (and the audience, especially at the time it was written) into going along with the plan. I would show this on stage, by having M shrink away from LM, and wincing at the key words. I think that Shakespeare wanted to have the effect of totally shocking the audience, and I would want to do the same. However, I think Shakespeare intended to shock his audience through the fact that the character is evil, I would, however, rely on modern society and the fact that most people would be horrified by the thought of ‘dashing the brains out’ of a ‘newborn babe’. I would also have the background noise of laughter and singing throughout these lines, to create an eerie silence. Lighting wise, I would have a harsh white light shining across the stage at them to wash out all colour and create a scene of death and evil. All this should have the effect of shock and almost disbelief on the audience as I would want these lines to be burned into their memories, because they are the most poignant lines in the play. They carry so many connotations that without them being remembered, the entire purpose of the scene would be lost. As soon as LM has finished this speech, M makes one final attempt to redirect LM by saying (feebly), ‘if we should fall?’ but LM sweeps the words away like the feeble attempt it was. From then on, the rest of the scene if dominated my LM as M is still in reprieve from what LM said; (As the audience should be). At the end of the scene, the characters of M and LM are finally in agreement. LM has convinced M to go through with murdering Duncan, his ‘kinsman’. So, at the end of the scene, LM is fully in command, but this will soon change. Throughout act 1 scene 7 are devices designed to make it stand out. The first one seen in this part of M is the soliloquy. Through this Shakespeare wanted to captivate the audience for the scene that would follow. I would make this device work by introducing lighting, sound, and directing the actors. Personally I would make the soliloquy work by firstly working on M. he would be wearing makeup, put on to make him look tired and drawn. M the scene on stage, with his head hanging low, He would begin speaking feverishly then as the soliloquy develops, he should become stronger and more confident, as described before. The turning point in the soliloquy is when M realises what he was planning was ‘wrong’ and that it was doomed to fail. Ergo, he decides not to kill Duncan. At this point M lifts his head and says triumphantly ‘he is here in double trust’. At this point the lighting would become lighter and warmer, both representing the revelation in his mind. This lighting will be effective, as it will be in total contrast to the previous lighting, which was a harsh white. If this were to be made into a film, I would place a heroic, but faint tune in the background, played by a brass band to add to the texture and connotations of the play. The second device used by Shakespeare is ‘violent imagery’. This device come through the play on several occasions, for instance, when LM displays her loyalty and depth of commitment while trying to bring her husband back on course. This device has major importance throughout the play. An example of how I would direct a section of this is between lines 54 – 59. I would have LM act out the phrases ‘pluck my nipple from his boneless gums’ and ‘dash the brains out’. This is designed to help the audience visualise what she is saying, therefore having a larger, and deeper impact. Unlike before, even if this was made into a film, I would have no music underneath, as this might distract form the lines. The same goes for in the theatre; I would not place any music underneath, as the words are powerful enough! Act 1 scene 7 is a very important scene in the play ‘Macbeth’. It is during this scene that the most important decision is made. it was also during this scene that the most dramatic and most memorable lines throughout the play are said by LM,(her son â€Å"dash his brains out†).It is also the first time that M attempts to stand up to LM. In short, had this scene of the play been lost or forgotten the entire play would also have been forgotten, as this scene, is by far the most memorable scene, and makes it a classic. In my version of this scene, I would strive to make the audience pity M for his weak mind and be shocked by LM with her brutal ways. I would want this response because it would indicate that the audience had understood the meaning, and that I had directed it well. Out of everything that is said in this scene, I think that what LM said between lines 54 and 59 are the most pivotal and provocative because is at that moment in the play, that it becomes cl ear this story will last for centuries. And this essay is living proof. The audience are meant to feel sorry for M at the beginning of the scene, as it should be clear, he is in a mess. However, they should shortly feel resentment towards him, when they watch how LM manipulates him, (i.e. calling him a ‘coward’ and attacking his manliness). I am fairly sure that Shakespeare wanted the same, and therefore I want to achieve the same. My views on this scene are very similar to want I have directed throughout this essay. I think that M is very unstable and up until he kills Duncan has very little confidence. He relies heavily on LM to make many of the decisions and to motivate him. I think, on the other hand that Lady Macbeth is not evil. I think that she is a strong minded woman who craved power and had t o motivate her weak husband to get it for her. (A sign of the times). Later in the play, when Duncan is killed I think that M gains confidence with his new status and the ease with which he got it. In contrast LM realised the enormous mistake they had made and began to break down. As a whole, I think the play is packed with morals and at the time was written to please the current king. (King James 1). Amazingly, I think it relates to today’s society very well with one of the main themes being ‘you cannot read people by their outward appearances’. As in these days the world seems to over value and focuses too much on image. Therefore this plays still bears a powerful and very meaningful message, even today, 500 years later.

Writing a Nursing Essay

Writing a Nursing Essay Similar to residency essays, a nursing essay is used by nursing school admissions directors to find those students whom theyd like to consider for their program. Thousands of hopefuls apply for nursing school each year, many of whom have similar GPAs and collegiate backgrounds. The essay helps distinguish the individuals from their educational statistics. When writing a nursing school essay (or any personal essay for that matter) it helps to be as candid as possible. Admissions directors want to know as much about their applicants as possible, however, they cant afford to give each and every essay a tremendous amount of time. In other words, dont sugar coat the message. Be unique in your approach, but factual and to-the-point as well. Another thing to remember when writing an essay for nursing is to include points relative to the subject. Offer specific examples as to why you are choosing a career in nursing. The more detailed you can be, the easier it will be for the readers to identify and/or sympathize with your decision. Exercise similar precision when discussing why you are applying to the school in question. Writing a nursing essay is a difficult task that is as much professional as it is personally revealing. For more information about writing admissions essays or if you would like help in writing an essay for a residency program, please dont hesitate to contact me. I would love to use my experience to help you.

Free Essays on AfricansAmericans In An America Civil War

Blacks and the Civil War The foundation for black participation in the Civil War began more than a hundred years before the outbreak of the war. Blacks in America had been in bondage since early colonial times. In 1776, when Jefferson proclaimed mankind’s unchallengeable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the institution of slavery had become firmly established in America. Blacks worked in the tobacco fields of Virginia, in the rice fields of South Carolina, and toiled in small farms and shops in the North. Foner and Mahoney report in A House Divided, America in the Age of Lincoln that, â€Å"In 1776, slaves composed forty percent of the population of the colonies from Maryland south to Georgia, but well below ten percent in the colonies to the North.† The invention of the cotton gin by Eli Whitney in 1793 provided a demand for cotton thus increasing the demand for slaves. By the 1800’s slavery was an institution throughout the South, an institution in which slaves had few rights, and could be sold or leased by their owners. They lacked any voice in the government and lived a life of hardship. Considering these circumstances, the slave population never abandoned the desire for freedom or the determination to resist control by the slave owners. The slave's reaction to this desire and determination resulted in outright rebellion and individual acts of defiance. However, historians place the strongest reaction in the enlisting of blacks in the war itself. Batty in The Divided Union: The Story of the Great American War, 1861-65, concur with Foner and Mahoney about the importance of outright rebellion in their analysis of the Nat Turner Rebellion, which took place in 1831. This revolt demonstrated that not all slaves were willing to accept this â€Å"institution of slavery† passively. Foner and Mahoney note that the significance of this uprising is found in its aftermath because of the numerous reports of â€Å"insubordina... Free Essays on AfricansAmericans In An America Civil War Free Essays on AfricansAmericans In An America Civil War Blacks and the Civil War The foundation for black participation in the Civil War began more than a hundred years before the outbreak of the war. Blacks in America had been in bondage since early colonial times. In 1776, when Jefferson proclaimed mankind’s unchallengeable right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the institution of slavery had become firmly established in America. Blacks worked in the tobacco fields of Virginia, in the rice fields of South Carolina, and toiled in small farms and shops in the North. Foner and Mahoney report in A House Divided, America in the Age of Lincoln that, â€Å"In 1776, slaves composed forty percent of the population of the colonies from Maryland south to Georgia, but well below ten percent in the colonies to the North.† The invention of the cotton gin by Eli Whitney in 1793 provided a demand for cotton thus increasing the demand for slaves. By the 1800’s slavery was an institution throughout the South, an institution in which slaves had few rights, and could be sold or leased by their owners. They lacked any voice in the government and lived a life of hardship. Considering these circumstances, the slave population never abandoned the desire for freedom or the determination to resist control by the slave owners. The slave's reaction to this desire and determination resulted in outright rebellion and individual acts of defiance. However, historians place the strongest reaction in the enlisting of blacks in the war itself. Batty in The Divided Union: The Story of the Great American War, 1861-65, concur with Foner and Mahoney about the importance of outright rebellion in their analysis of the Nat Turner Rebellion, which took place in 1831. This revolt demonstrated that not all slaves were willing to accept this â€Å"institution of slavery† passively. Foner and Mahoney note that the significance of this uprising is found in its aftermath because of the numerous reports of â€Å"insubordina...

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the Electoral College Essay

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the Electoral College - Essay Example The Contender is required to take a broad advance. It is within the Electoral College that the presidential applicants are liable to choose a running mate from another region. The procedure is essential as the government avoids regional problems (Hudson and Roger 40). Another benefit of the Electoral College is that it allows the minority groups to make a difference in the voting process. The supporters argue that Minorities in a region have the possibility of creating a divergence amid prevailing of a regions electoral vote or losing (Kimberling and William 1992). The supporters of the Electoral College also argue that it helps in maintaining the federal character in a country. The supporters argue that the Electoral College system grants every region the freewill to design its laws regarding voting. Electoral College also allows each region to make amendments (Hudson and Roger 40). The supporters of the Electoral College also argue that the depressing result of the Electoral College on third parties as an excellent scheme. The Electoral College upholds the current two party systems in presenting the region with firm constancy (Kimberling and William 1992). The supporters of the Electoral College also argue the Electoral College maintains division of powers. The constitution has been designed to segregate the government to three diverse branches that are intended to present stability plus consideration. Some supporters argue that if the President is voted directly he can state a countrywide popular mandate that will challenge other government branches (Hudson and Roger 40). One of the disadvantages is that in many states, the contender with many votes gets every electoral vote of that region. The minority regions have an account of constantly voting for a Democrat or a Republican. Contenders are capable of not

Develop Creative Listening and Linguistic Communication Skills of the Dissertation

Develop Creative Listening and Linguistic Communication Skills of the Second Language Learners - Dissertation Example This dissertation attempts to take the concept of creative listening to task as a development method to assist Second Language Learners in developing creative listening and linguistic communication skills. Second Language Learners are a language minority in such English speaking countries as the United States and the United Kingdom. Inculcating literacy among these learners is a present-day critical challenge since English literacy is essential to their academic achievement, and to educational and economic opportunities beyond schooling. Given the phenomenon that minority learners are increasing owing to immigration and birth rate conditions, there is the added fact that without English literacy, this language minority group will not fare well in school achievement.. Already, statistics show that 51 percent of minority learners do not finish high school compared with only 10 percent of English speaking learners who do not complete secondary education. (National Center for Educational Statistics). Meanwhile, listening skills belong to the unattended self-improvement skills being developed in schools. While much training is given to reading, writing, arithmetic and science, the listening part of the communication process is bypassed or presumed to be virtually learned. Research studies, however, makes a revelation, namely that untrained listeners are very low— lower than 50 percent—on proficiency in learning. ... While much training is given to reading, writing, arithmetic and science, the listening part of the communication process is bypassed or presumed to be virtually learned. Research studies, however, makes a revelation, namely that untrained listeners are very low— lower than 50 percent—on proficiency in learning. This should not be surprising since various studies also state that people, including school learners, may spend 45 to over 50 percent of their communication time in the listening act. It appears most timely and important therefore that the educational system should give adequate attention to the improvement of listening skills among learners. This dissertation makes two assumptions: 1. Creative listening and linguistic communication skills can be developed along the new paradigm of multiple intelligence learning, and 2. A program patterned along multi-intelligence activities can be devised to respond to the need to develop creative listening and linguistic comm unication skills. Creative Listening Skills To focus on the listening act itself, it is necessary to remove the misconception that hearing and listening are the same. At times, we may have heard someone complaining, â€Å"I hear you, please don’t shout at me.† This is to recognize the physiological process that occurs when sound is received by man’s hearing apparatus. People may hear, however, but they may not be listening in the sense of recognizing the meaning of those sounds, such as the internal anger or anguish expressed by the speaker. Developing listening for meaning is therefore a must. Developing listening to create constructive ideas and action, such as behavioral change, can therefore be very beneficial to society, inclusive of social relationships