How has Chinese FP change since Moa and how important are economics? Essay

Throughout History, China and her foreign policy has been the focus of much controversy and debate in the fields of History and International Relations. The size, geographical position, culture and politics of China make it, and have made it one of the most important actors in regional and international affairs. The aims and nature of Chinese foreign policy have been through a number of important changes in the twentieth century. This essay will examine the principles of Chinese Foreign Policy after the death of leader Mao Tse Tung and will discuss the importance economics has on the formulation of post Mao foreign Policy. This essay will first discuss the principle aims and practises of Chinese foreign policy under Mao as a basis to compare the post Mao characteristics. The essay will then examine the major aspects of China’s foreign policy that occurred during and after Mao’s leadership in terms of the relations with the west, relations with the Soviet bloc, relations with third world revolutionary groups and the so called opposition to hegemonism. Through studying these factors the essay will examine the importance of economic factors in china’s foreign policy since Mao. As an example of how China works in the international system the essay will discuss the relations modern China has with its major neighbours in terms of military, political and, importantly, economic factors. In a discussion of post Mao Chinese foreign policy it is important to understand the foreign policy during the leadership of Mao Tse Tung. It is first important to note that Mao’s handling of Chinese foreign policy was not a single phase in itself and did not follow a single characteristic and it is also important to note that many principles of current Sino-foreign relations stem back to Mao. In 1949 after decades of civil war and political unrest the Chinese Communist party founded the â€Å"Peoples Republic of China†. Mao Tse Tung, the chairman of the Chinese Communist Party was now the political leader of over a billion Chinese people. Under Mao major social and internal changes were undertaken alongside a noticeable change in the relations with outsiders. The first major change was the five-year plan, between 1952 and 1957, during these years China opened up to a foreign state, the Soviet Union, in a way never before seen in China (1, pp47). This can be analysed as part of Mao’s â€Å"let foreign things serve China†(1,pp47) attitude, an attitude that, if vague, encouraged the Chinese to make a distinction between the damaging and the helpful elements of foreign influences. This period also saw Mao introducing the five principles of peaceful coexistence, principles that, at least publicly would become the backbone to the overt actions of China’s foreign relations. These principles, suggested by premier Zhou Enlai, claim to base China relations on mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence (8). The validity of these principles is obviously in question and it would seem that many could be described as being contradictory to China’s practice of foreign policy especially during the Cold War. China’s threatening stance over Taiwan, the invasion of Tibet and support for North Korea during the Korean war during this period can be argued to contradict the claims made by the five principles. China’s relations with the two major cold war super-powers were often pivotal in Chinese decision-making under Mao. It seemed that during the early cold war years, China began to emerge from her self-imposed exile as it opened up to the Soviet Union. The later Maoist era however also saw a turn away from Soviet domination during the early to mid sixties partly due to what the Chinese often refer to as â€Å"Soviet Chauvinism†(6,Liu Huaqiu article) and an approach to what can be called the â€Å"Period of Cooperation† (2,pp280) with America. One of China’s major advantages during the Cold War was the ability to choose between the two super-powers of the era. The build up of both Chinese and soviet troops on the border â€Å"(6, Liu Huaqiu article), the general rise in tensions between the two powers over the interference of Soviet facilitators helping develop Chinese industry may have contributed to Mao’s movement, politically, toward the US. US-Sino relations were obviously damaged due to the involvement of Chinese â€Å"volunteers† in the Korean War. The first stepping-stone in this new cooperation and the smoothing of post Korea relations was the famous Shanghai Communiquà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ of 1971-2 (2,pp280) involving American a visit to the Peoples Republic of China by President Richard Nixon and a meeting with Chairman Mao. It is difficult to examine in detail the complex elements of Mao’s foreign policy in the limited space this essay allows. However, it is important not to lay to much focus on China’s relations with the two super powers. Other elements lay at the heart of Mao’s foreign policies, elements that also changed through his years of leadership. His economic policy, originally based on the Marxist/Soviet principles of state controlled commerce began to reform, at least in the final Mao years, towards a more free market based economy. Political ties two Marxist revolutionary groups in third world countries also played a major role in Mao’s foreign policy making. Mao, not believing in a two-bloc world or a one bloc revolution, made major contributions to numerous third world Marxist revolutionaries as part of what Mao saw, at least publicly, as a way of achieving global revolution through the global working class (1 pp94-95). On a more power political level it could be argued that if these revolutions were successful China could develop allies in important places. Korea is an example of Marxist revolution supported by the Chinese in a strategically important country (7). Mao’s foreign policy cannot be described in a single word. His unstable relations with the US and USSR, the changes he made in the economy make understanding the drive behind Mao’s foreign policy challenging. It can be argued that the erratic foreign policy of Mao was a symptom of the erratic domestic, the failing Cultural Revolution and the great leap forward may have forced Mao to change policy. The importance of understanding the legacy Mao left at his death to future Chinese administrations is not to be underestimated when studying post Mao foreign policy. Despite the major changes in the nature of Chinese foreign policy Mao’s legacy and influence has in no way been ignored and it is important to first examine the affect of Mao’s policies on China’s foreign policy after his death. The public face of Chinese foreign policy still emphasise Mao’s so called â€Å"Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence† as being the centre of its actions (6). Despite continued evidence of China’s ignorance of the policy the public face of China on the international scene will often claim to be following these principles. Mao also initiated the cooperation with the United States that has, even if the relationship has sometimes been strained, continued as a major party of Chinese foreign relations. Mao also influenced the Chinese continued stance of vigilance towards the other cold war super power the USSR (3, pp201). Despite the changes that this essay shall now analyse the examples given suggest that Mao’s i nfluence was not forgotten in the formulation of cold war and modern foreign policy. In discussing post Mao foreign policy it is important to understand the importance of economic development in the new era of western cooperation. Economic development also gives an interesting starting point to the discussion of the importance of economics in Chinese Foreign Policy after Mao. There were many major attempts to both open and develop china economically by the new more moderate post Mao regime. The â€Å"Open Door† policy initiated by Mao was, after his death, intensified and relations with the West and especially the US carried out through businessmen now allowed into the once anti-capitalist environment (1,pp125). This new openness also coincided with internal economic reform. In 1978, the new chairman, Deng Xiaoping, introduced the â€Å"Four Modernisations†, a way of developing the country through modernising elements of agriculture, industry, national defence and science and technology as part of a ten-year plan. Deng also began the introduction and proliferation of China’s free enterprise economy (9). These economic development changes had a radical effect on China’s foreign policy. No longer an isolated communist country China began to move toward an economy base and even reliant on western capitalist systems (9,2,). This can be seen as evidence for the view that China’s economic health was gradually being placed at the forefront of her foreign policy and her position in the international system. China’s relations with the Western and economically developed nations, especially the US and Japan provides interesting perspective when analysing the changes nature of china’s foreign policy after Mao. As previously discussed the â€Å"Open Door† policy played a major role in the development of improved, or at least cooperative relations with the western world. One of the major characteristics of post Mao foreign policy was the continued hatred of the USSR and, as previously noted, the move toward the US as its main source of political and economic support. Towards the end of the 1970s the US even quietly aided China militarily against the soviets. During this period the military support was covert and originally involved eaves dropping equipment for intelligence gathering. However the military support became more public as the USSR’s war in Afghanistan began to escalate with America aiding the Chinese with no lethal and logistical support for defence aga inst possible Soviet attacks (2, pp 202). This military cooperation was could be used as evidence for suggesting the idea that the view â€Å"my enemies enemy is my friend† was the basis of Sino-US relations. However, evidence suggests that economics could be described as being at the centre of China’s relations with the developed world. As the cold war dragged on china began to turn more and more to the west for infrastructure development purchasing Nuclear reactors and factories. The new relationship with he west was not only beneficial to China, oil companies, such as BP and EXXON, were able to mine China’s oil reserves (2,pp203). This new economically charged relationship continued through out the later years of the cold war. Despite some obvious stumbling blocks, such as Tiananmen Square, the relationship with the west has, at least privately, flourished even if publicly western leader denounce China’s political system (6,7). China’s relationship with the west was not, as was originally expected (1, pp237-247), significantly changed by the ending of the Cold War. Despite some further stumbling blocks and diplomatic incidents, such as the collision of a US spy plane and a Chinese fighter jet in April 2001, and the continuation of sanctions China has become more and more reliant on the US. Ignoring its claims of opposing hegemonism China’s economic reliance on the western powers looks set to intensify. A way of simplifying the Chinese relation to the west could be done through describing it as a publicly strained and privately flourishing especially in the light of the events of September 11th. One of the major political changes in the post Mao era is the changing nature of China’s relations with the Third World. Under Mao, China often saw the third world as its main source of economic and political support and also considered the third world as being china’s main allies in combating US and Soviet attempts at hegemonism (1,pp234), (6). Mao, who considered China to be a leader of the third world and, as previously stated, also saw the third world as the backbone to a world revolution. After the death of Mao China’s political and economic support began to move from the third world to the US and Western Europe. There major change in the relations with the third world was the removal of support for Marxist revolutionaries and a turn away from the world revolutionary principles of Mao. However, the perceived importance of the third world was not completely from foreign policy decision makers. The third world, in the eyes of the Chinese, was considered to be the priority target for the USSR to spread the Soviet â€Å"hegemony† (1,pp234-236)(5,pp181-183)(6). This could be the reason behind China attempts to remove soviet influence from third world neighbours. The successful invasion of the third world country Cambodia (1978) and the unsuccessful invasion of Vietnam (1979) could be analysed as examples of these Chinese attempts to remove soviet influence. China’s involvement with the third world began to take a new form in the late eighties and toward the end of the cold war. Diplomatic ties with Africa especially were rebooted. Many argue that this was due to the sanctions imposed by the west in reaction to the Tiananmen massacre in 1989 (5,pp183). Despite China’s declination to join major third world organisations, China has joined with numerous third world countries such as Singapore to create a third world â€Å"immunity† from super power influence and supports the proposal of a â€Å"New Economic Order† developed by other third world states (5,pp183). So as far as China’s relations with third world nations can be analysed they have gone through a major change since Mao’s death and seem to be, not surprisingly, rooted in economic necessity rather than ideological or political will. To conclude this essay there is considerable evidence to suggest that Mao’s death, in September 1976, had a dramatic affect on China’s domestic situation and an even more important affect on China’s relations with the International System and the her foreign policy decision making. China’s foreign policy has, since Mao, been more and more influenced by economic factors. It is arguably possible to connect most major aspects of change since Mao to the Chinese government’s will to economically develop the country with political and ideological aspects such as the global revolution, military security and opposition hegemonism being placed either at a lower priority or interlinked with Economic Foreign Policy. Even if not directly economic it could easily be argued that most changes have at least an indirect affect on the economic growth of China and that these changes have been done for the China’s economic security. As china moves into the 21st century it appears that on a political level the regime has begun, especially since the September 11th terrorist attacks on America, to move toward a more interdependent relationship with the west. It seems apparent however that the soothing of relations with western power, despite the political and moralist claim, will be, as before, based more on the economic well being of China. Bibliography 1: M. Yahunda, China’s Foreign Policy after Mao, Macmillan, 1983, Hong Kong 2: J. B. Starr, Understanding China (2nd Edition), Profile Books, 2001, US 3: E. E. Moise, Modern China (2nd edition), Longman, 1994, UK 4: T. Siach, Government and politics of China, Plagrave, 2001, New York US 5: Chien-Min Chao, B.J. Dickson, Remaking the Chinese State, Rutledge, 2001, London (UK) 6: Chinese Embassy Web site: http://www.china-embassy.org 7: Chinese Foreign Policy, Article http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/china/19990914A128.html 8: Principles of Chinese Foreign Policy http://afe.easia.columbia.edu/teachingaids/china/for_pol/resource.htm 9: After Mao and Through the 1980s, May 9, 2000 http://history.binghamton.edu/hist274/May9.htm

Case Study of P1

1. 0 Introduction 1. 1 Company Background Packet One Networks (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (P1) was launched on August 18, 2008 as a subsidiary of Green Packet Bhd, which is a leading global developer of Next Generation Mobile Broadband Networking Solutions. P1 is Malaysia’s first and leading WiMAX telecommunications company with the country widest WiMAX network and it represents the first large-scale commercial deployment of Mobile WiMAX in Southeast Asia, as well as the first large-scale deployment of an 802. 16e WiMAX network outside Korea. P1 was one of four companies awarded 2. GHz spectrum licenses by the Malaysian Government to deploy WiMax services throughout Malaysia (www. p1. com. my, 2009). 1. 2 Company’s vision P1 objective is to become the market leader in wireless broadband industry. To achieve that, P1 are now putting their effort on broadening wireless broadband connectivity across the region in order to capture more market. (www. p1. com. my, 2009). 1. 3 WiMAX WiMAX is an abbreviation of Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access. It is a standard-based technology enabling delivery of last mile wireless broadband access as an alternative to cable and DSL. WiMAX enables deliverables of bandwidth between two points or between a point to multipoint to customer. The usage of WiMAX requires certain bandwidth of spectrum to be allocated to the service provider, in accordance to the channeling plan approved and published by Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission(MCMC) (www. greenpacket. com, 2008). 2. 0 Michael Porter 5 Forces 2. 1 Threat of new entry Telecom industry is one of the industries which have the biggest barrier to enter. Firstly, to enter this industry requires a lot of cash to cover high ixed equipment and innovation cost (Gupta. A, 2008). Secondly, the ownership a telecom license can be one of the biggest barriers to entry, because government may refuse to give license to operator to operate their business (WiMAXian. com, 2009). Thirdly, advertisements to create awareness to public are very costly; it is very hard to draw public attention if there is no enough advertisement since there are so many players in Malaysi a. Moreover, skilled human capitals are required to operate the business (Gupta. A, 2008). Lastly, high exit barriers scared off investors in get into this business, concluding that the threat of new entry is very low. 2. 2 Competitive rivalry As Internet plays a very important role in human’s daily life, most of the people have to in touch with internet every day. So, to attract more subscribers, competitors have to lower down their price and provide more benefits in order to survive since they have invest an enormous capital in this business that with high exit barrier due to its specialize equipment. There are more than 10 internet service providers (ISP) in Malaysia. Normally, new carriers are used to take low price strategy to attract customers, which lead to a price war (wwwen. zte. com. cn, 2010). Besides that, these ISP do their promotion and advertising frequently as everyone in major city can see it every day and everywhere. The fierceness of frequent advertisement had leaded to an advertising war between P1 and Streamyx in 2009 (Risen. J, 2009). Moreover, High customer churn rate shows that any unsatisfaction in term of speed, stability and price will cause customer to switch to other service provider (Gupta. A, 2008). It may conclude that the competitive rivalry in internet industry is highly intensive. 2. 3 Bargaining power of buyer With the increased choices of broadband service in Malaysia, the bargaining power of buyer is rising; this leads into customers seeking low prices but have better services. On the other hand, the switching cost from one to another Internet service provider is relatively low, customers can switch to other service provider easily, and this enhanced the bargaining power of buyer. 2. 4 Bargaining power of supplier P1 need to have sets of specialize hardware and software equipment to run their business. From hardware (Base station, CPE, Antenna, Cooling system and etc) to software (Billing software, Network Monitoring, Test Software), there are enough number of suppliers weaken bargaining power. As a conclusion for the bargaining power of supplier, it is average as P1 have many other options (www. wimax-industry. com, 2009). 2. 5 Threat of substitution High substitution threats from non-traditional telecom industries’ product and services, for example: Cable television verses Satellite television, Internet telephony verses traditional voice calls (Gupta. A, 2008). 3. 0 Segmentation Targeting and Positioning 3. 1 Target Market P1’s target markets are metropolitans who seek for convenience lifestyle. 3. 2 Positioning P1 had positioned WiMAX as a 4G technology that is superior to High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) and 3G technologies, which are the fastest, conveniences, stable wireless broadband network in Malaysia. Thus, P1 had done a â€Å"Potong (Cut) Now† campaign to encourage public to free themselves from hassles, frustration and any other unsatisfying broadband services. (www. p1. com. y, 2009) 4. 0 Marketing Mix 4. 1 Product The core product that P1 provided is internet connection service. There are two supporting products for people to connect to internet provided by P1 which are Wifi-enabled Desktop Modem and Portable Modem WIGGY; it can be diversify into many plans. 4. 1. 1 Wifi-enabled Desktop Modem Wifi-enabled Desktop Modem allows several users to connect to internet at the same time by WLAN technology. There a re 5 standard plans which are categorized into two major plans: Home and Office. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) For Home, it can be divided into 3 plans which are LITE, PLUS and PRO. The â€Å"LITE† plan connection speed is 400kbps and usage threshold are setting at 5GB. The â€Å"Plus† plan provided 1. 2 Mbps connection speed with 20GB usage threshold. The â€Å"PRO† plan provided 2. 4 Mbps connection speed and usage threshold are setting at 40 GB. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) Whereas for Office, are divided into Standard and Premium. The â€Å"Standard† plan provided 1. 2Mbps Internet connection speed and enjoying unlimited usage threshold. The â€Å"Premium† plan provide 2. Mbps internet connection speed and enjoying unlimited usage threshold by unlimited as well. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) 4. 1. 2 Portable Modem WIGGY Unlike Wifi-enabled Desktop Modem, there are only two major plans for Wiggy which is Wiggy 69 and WIGGY*. Wiggy 69 provide 800kps connection speed, allowing 5GB of usage threshold. Whereas for WIGGY*, provided speed up to 10mbps with usage thresho ld 10GB (www. p1. com. my, 2010). 4. 2 Price P1 had offered a â€Å"stimulus package† which is RM 49 per month to attract the new broadband users and students. Another competitive package includes WIGGY with RM69 and RM149 per month. In the below, the table shows that the competitive prices between P1 and Streamyx. [pic] Table 1 – P1 W1max [pic] Table 2 – Streamyx Table 1 and table 2 shows the prices of P1 WiMAX and Streamyx according to the prices. From here, it shows that P1 keeping the price to be balance with others competitors, which Streamyx are provide â€Å"Streamyx 2. 0Mbps† package with price RM 188, and P1 are provide the plan â€Å"PRO 2. 4Mbps† with price RM 199. (www. p1. com. my, 2010 and www. Streamy. com, 2010). The prices of all plan set by P1 almost the same with others competitors because P1 believes in an â€Å"honesty policy† in which the subscriber knows upfront which speed and price is worth for them. Thereby, P1 not only keeps the price balance but also increases market share and influences the local market. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) 4. 3 Place States and places had covered by P1 are Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Selangor, Perak, Pulau Pinang, and Perlis. P1 are planning to roll out its Wimax Services in the state which still haven’t covered by P1 that include Kuala Terengganu, Melaka, Sabah and Sarawak. www. p1. com. my, 2010) P1 recruit resellers to provide registration service in different state and areas that including Perak Ipoh, Pulau Pinang Butterworth, Johor Batu Pahat, Kuala Lumpur Putra Jaya and many other places which covered by P1 WiMAX coverage. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) On the other hand, P1 Green Packet’s headquarter located beside the Federal Highway in KL, it also houses their customer service center to provide reception service for customers come to registration with P1 Modem, require information, make payment, and others. (www. hot-screensaver. om) Lastly, internet also plays as an important part for P1 as play strategy, customers can make registration and bill payments are P1 official website. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) 4. 4 Promotion P1 has paid more attention to brand image promotion, and there are variety of promotions provided by P1 to attract more customers that involved P1 likes to attend different kinds of industrial exhibitions, seminars and summits, and make speeches to promote P1’s brand (wwwen. zte. com. cn, 2010). Besides that, P1 had also promoted their services through advertisement. It features with three conventional forms of media which are television, newspaper, and radio. 4. 5 People Externally, P1 recruit resellers to promote and persuade customer to subscribe P1 Wimax internet connection services. Customer can find P1 WiMAX reseller easily as long as they are under P1 services coverage (www. p1. com. my, 2010). Internally, P1 hire formal receptionist to serve customers at their headquarter-PacketHub reception. Moreover, P1 also hires operators for customer care line to serve call in when customer encounter problems or need advance information. The operation hours of P1 Customer Care Line starting from 8a. m to 11p. m, it also available on public holidays. (www. p1. com. my, 2010) 4. 6 Process P1 payment can make by online bill payment, auto debit, cheque payment and phone-in payment. Online bill payment allows customers to pay online by using Visa/MasterCard, Banks Savings and Current Account. Customer also can use Auto Debit/Auto pay system to do payment, it is an automatically system that will deduct customer bank savings or current account on a fixed schedule. It is for sure that customers can use cheque payment method to pay for their bill; this is the very common way to make payment. Moreover, there is an option for customer to pay by phone-in payment, but only for MBF credit card holder and Visa/Master card holder (www. p1. com. my, 2010). 4. 7 Physical Evidence 4. 7. 1 Official Website P1’s official website is well design; it is eye catching, multifunctional and easy to use. It contains of information, announcement, online speed meter check, online payment, coverage check, online feedback and so on (www. p1. com. my, 2010). 4. 7. 2 Packaging Packaging boxes of P1 W1WAX are made by high quality carton; this is to ensure that it can physically protect the product inside, preventing any damages from unexpected event. Moreover, the packaging itself are well design and nicely labeled, this is to attract and to relay information to customers. A well made design of packaging can be a tool to influence customer’s perception in term of quality of the product, indirectly persuade customer to choose P1 WiMAX internet connection service from other competitors. [pic] Picture 1 Packaging of P1 WiMAX Modem 5. 0 S. W. O. T of P1 wimax Strengths: |Weakness: | |First mover and market leader |Low Coverage | |Strong brand image |Erratic connection, weak connection signal | |Ease of use, affordable 4G technology | | |Partnering with government | | |Support from parent company | | |Opportunity: |Threats: | |Consumer preferences for internet access service |Threaten from Redtone | |Technological advancement |Preference for wired broa dband and free wireless services | |States going wireless |Intense competition | 1. Strengths: 5. 1. First mover and Market leader P1 is Malaysia’s first and leading Wimax telecommunications company with the country’s widest Wimax network. The company gains the first mover advantages. It obtains control of resources that followers may not be able to match. P1 also formed a partnership with Sunway Group and completed deployment of the first phase of the [email  protected] project, providing wireless broadband Internet access to more than 80 percent of home and business users and over 2 million visitors to the group’s flagship township, making Bandar Sunway the first integrated Wi-Fi/WiMAX wireless township in Malaysia. (www. p1. com. my, 2009) 2. Partnering with Government Moreover, P1 was chosen by the local government, the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and regulator, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), to set up the Wi-Fi/WiMAX (Wi-Fi mesh) Kuala Lumpur Wireless Metropolitan Project ([email  protected]), deploying over 1,500 hotspots and currently serving more than 130,000 users with free wireless broadband Internet access in Kuala Lumpur. (www. p1. com. my, 2009) It helps to create a strong brand image to P1 Wimax. P1 has established relationships with various local governments and communities to attract more new customers. 3. Ease of use, affordable 4G Technology Besides that, the ease-of-use offered by current modems, with true plug-and-play compatibility for typical users and greater flexibility for more advanced users (such as online gamers and heavy downloaders) to get the connection configuration freedom that they need truly satisfy the customer. P1 Wimax requires no configuration, no software installation (for desktop modems), no additional lines—just plug-and-play operation (www. p1. com. my, 2010). The price of the plan and packages for customer are also affordable. 4. Support from parent company P1 is a subsidiary company of Green Packet, a technology company from Silicon Valley, and gets its technology and designs from Green Packet. With the help of Green Packet, it brings the future to present by offering one? stop cost effective data, voice, video and other value added services for all communication needs. The technology can transfer or sharing between each other. 1. Weakness: 5. 2. 1 Low Coverage P1 W1MAX Wiggy signal coverage still not wide enough, there is only 35% population coverage by the end of 2009. 9As P1 Wimax service is still relatively new and in the process of being fully implemented, coverage is still not optimal especially in East Malaysia. However, P1 has a new marketing strategy out. Instead of planning where to â€Å"P1 W1MAX† enable, they are asking their users to vote for the next â€Å"P1 W1MAX† coverage areas. P1 hoping to reach 45% population coverage by the end of 2010, and 65% population coverage by the end of 2012 in Malaysia. (www. p1. com. my) 5. 2. 2 Erratic connection, weak connection signal The signal of the connection show a little erratic when the user wasn’t exactly in the coverage area. Beside that, depending on the location of the P1 tower, the connection also varied from various parts of the house and performed best when the modem was placed close to the windows. On the other hand, the P1 modem may not work if you are using a work laptop where you do not have permission to install applications. This is because the P1 modem will actually install a little application in your laptop or computer to enable it to connect so you will have to ensure that your computer allows installation of applications. Based on these weaknesses, the P1 Company has created an opportunity to their competition to move in; they still need to do a lot of improvement to increase its performance and quality. 2. Opportunity: 5. 3. Consumer preferences for internet access service Information technology (IT) and advanced communications are playing an increasing role in national productivity growth, the creation of new network-based activities, and improving education and living standards. Frequen cy of Internet activity – â€Å"many times a week† Activity All Dial-up High-speed Email & instant messaging 71. 4 68. 5 79. 7 Search engines & purchase products 37. 8 29. 5 60. 8 Play games & gamble 21. 0 17. 7 30. 8 Share music file or photos 10. 1 6. 19. 5 Banking, trading stocks, or bill payment 9. 8 7. 4 16. 5 Download movies to view on PC 1. 0 0. 9 1. 3 Note. Cells are percent of respondents using the activity â€Å"many times a week. †(Table taken from Telecommunications Research Group, University of Colorado) The table above shows Internet activity for the most extremes responses. The boom of e-business and m-commerce, doing things such as paying bills online and being on the go creates an opportunity for P1 as the trend is to utilize and makes the best of all the time you have. This is due to the increasing preference for full mobility, doing things on the go and online connectivity. [pic] The table above shows that the internet users and broadband internet users had been increase. By the end of June 2008, there were 1. 718mn broadband subscribers in the market, and our estimate of seeing just over 2mn by the end of the year is expected to be achieved, led by demand for wireless broadband. (Malaysia Telecommunications Report, 2009) This trend is expected to continue, particularly given that the country reported the deployment of its first WiMAX services in the third quarter of this year. We are forecasting around 7mn broadband subscribers by 2013, representative of a penetration rate of 24%. The increase of broadband users is also a sign that the market would be ready for P1 Wimax if the service and promotion are implemented successfully. 2. States going wireless [email  protected], is a state government initiative engaging the WiMAX-based P1 wireless Internet service. P1’s part of the project is actually named [email  protected], a subset of the larger initiative, to deliver broadband Internet connectivity to areas with high numbers of tourists, as well as densely-populated locations, making Penang one of the first cities in the world offering full WiMAX connectivity. (www. p1. com. my, 2009) This provides an opportunities as P1 may take advantages of this need and be the most widely used, known or eve sole provider in the state. This will put them ahead of their competition as well as help to establish credibility and reputation. 3. Technological advancement MIMOS, the premier applied research centre in frontier technologies, today announced that its WiWi Technology Platform – the world’s first hybrid WiFi and WiMAX solution which operates on 2. 3 GHz frequency designed as an alternative for last mile broadband connectivity to accelerate Malaysia’s broadband ecosystem – is ready for nationwide commercialisation. (www. mimos. my, 2009) The new MIMOS WiWi allows for better penetration into the broadband market such as being able to reach rural areas where pulling cables are more costly, time consuming and inefficient option. If P1 is able to build a strong brand image, excellent reputation and services, it will be able to capture the lion’s share of the market. 3. Threats: 5. 4. 1 Threaten from Redtone Redtone, using base stations and CPE equipment from Motorola, has launched the first commercial WiMAX service in East Malaysia. (www. telecoms. com, 2010)The first phase of the WiMAX network covers the Kota Kinabalu business district. With Redtone heavily investing and focusing in East Malaysia, Redtone has managed to establish themselves and build credibility there. This creates an obstacle for P1 whose objectives is to be the leader in the wireless broadband industry. P1 will find it much harder to penetrate that market without heavy investment in promotions and improving their services or Redtone’s service deteriorates. 2. Preference for wired broadband and free wireless services As wireless broadband is still not very advanced, it tends to be either more unstable or does not have extensive coverage. As such, people may not want to pay for wireless broadband when options such as wired internet in the office or home are available. Free Wi-Fi services are also available to cater for the increasing preference for full mobility in many places such as F&B outlets such as Starbucks, McDonalds, Secret Recipe, Old Town cafes, Papa Rich and so on. 3. Intense competition P1 Wimax operates in the highly competitive and rapidly evolving technology industry. Rapid changes in the technology have resulted in the frequent introduction of new products with competitive prices, features, and performance characteristics. Some of the competitors of the company include fixed line (TMNet Streamyx), and cellular providers through their HSDPA/HSUPA (Celcom, Digi, Maxis). With telecoms lying new technologies from time to time (towards LTE) and TMNet starting High-speed (using fiber) broadband next year in metro areas of Klang Valley. Moreover, P1 only offers 2 portable Wimax packages, the Wiggy and the Wiggy 69. Each package is placed on two extreme ends, one with a very low speed and the other with a significantly higher but also higher price tag. (www. p1. com. my, 2009) There is currently no package catering to the in between market—those who do not mind paying a bit more and getting a slightly higher speed than that offered by Wiggy69. Aside from that, the competitor offers a much wider range of packages and some even cater to the â€Å"in between† market. This creates a threat to the P1 also. 6. Marketing Objectives and Strategies: 6. 1 Marketing Objectives a) To increase to 20% P1 WiMAX subscriber in one year. b) To increase 30% of P1 WiMAX awareness among the targeted audience in one year. 7. Marketing Strategies: Ansoft Matrix Market Penetration: price, promotion |Product Development: product | |- special price packages |-R&D in service stability | |- inducing trial use |-packaging of the product | |Market Development-promotion, place |Diversification-distribution: pro duct | |- Increase service availability in F&B outlet |-come out with mobile telecommunication service. |- Increase coverage | | |- Mailing campaign | | 7. 1 Market Penetration: Price †¢ Special price packages-student packages Communicating the benefits to the end-consumer of a product often needs a â€Å"sweetener† to entice the consumer to change their provider or sign up for the first time with a new provider. Adding value and an incentive to purchase to the end-consumer is the main point. The student market for broadband is significant and forms the key demographic of the target market. According to the research that done by P1, the customer â€Å"Top Five Wish List† are: 1. Coverage 2. Embedded devices with attractive bundling and add-on options 3. Higher data cap 4. More affordable portable offerings 5. Direct subscription sign-up online (already addressed by P1 Direct) With student sometimes paying up RM 26. 000 per year on higher tertiary education fees, a mobile internet service that is fast, reliable, portable and most of all, affordable is most attractive. As an incentive for students to sign up to P1 Wimax, an exclusive package deal for â€Å"student only† would include 12-month short-term contract, an improved download speed of up to 10mps, the last month of the 12 month contract would be free-of-charge, premium on offers which include pendrives, mouse pad all bearing the P1 Wimax logo and so on. The design of shorter term contract would be more appealing to students as many students live in a dynamic environment and value their freedom of choice. By making the 12-month contract more attractive the student’s interest will be garnered. Besides that, P1 also can conduct an on campus advertising. On campus advertising is a marketing and media services company specializing in targeting college students on campuses. The concept of advertise in campus is less expensive and can attract more student in the package which are only deal with student. Additionally, the campus media such like campus radio station and website can get the ads get played in order to increase its brand awareness. †¢ Inducing trial use The consumers could be influential in inducing trial use of a new product or service. Companies now allow clients and potential customers to try products and services on a trial basis before purchasing or signing up. By offering a trial offers, it acts as an incentive for prospective consumers, potentially influencing their decision to sign a contract with the company and encourage users of another brand to switch. This method is used in order to demonstrate and promote the stability and speed of P1Wimax. Once the users get a feel of the Wimax technology P1 provides, they will be more easily convinced to make a purchase if they are able to experience a product or service first hand as they will make the judgement on their own. 7. 2 Market Development: promotion, place †¢ Increase Services availability in F&B outlets F&B outlets such as Starbucks and Old Town are selected as it is not only a hang out place but a place where those who wish to surf the net can do so in comfort as food and beverages are served there. It is more convenient than using the cyber cafe and it is also provides a change of atmosphere from surfing the net at home the office or in an educational institution. The F&B franchises are chosen as many people patronize the outlets not only for the food and drinks served but also for the ambience, WiFi services and price. Furthermore, the distribution of these outlets is wide and easily to find. Thus the name and device will always be easily seen, building awareness, reminding the public and creating interest in the Wiggy portable USB modem service. †¢ Increase Coverage In order to increase distribution and availability, P1 could establish relationships with various state governments and communities. Because of the successful partnering with Penang government, the company now can engage the WIMAX-based P1 wireless internet service with other state government. This partnership project not only can increase the brand awareness, but also boost economic capabilities and social education opportunities so that the state can leapfrog the development and growth of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a whole. †¢ Mailing Campaign It’s important to promote the brand awareness and reputation. This is especially true when economic times are challenging, you’ve got news to announce, or you’re simply hungry for growth. Many forms of promotion are available to the modern designer – with banner ads and Google AdWords among the most popular. In this digital age, it’s easy for web and graphic designers to overlook one of the most effective and fun forms of promotion: the mail campaign. Direct marketing provides with a way to conduct a test of this market relatively quickly, at a reasonable cost, and with convincing certitude. Direct mail can happen fast. With a modest campaign to a known target audience, P1 can acquire a mailing list; develop mailing materials (including direct-mail letter, flier, reply card and so on), launch a mailing and start to receive results in just a few months. This is faster than the typical advertising campaign–and a lot faster than waiting for the phone to ring. Additionally, P1 can test different appeals, called â€Å"offers† in the trade, to reveal the most potent message through direct mail. By making a different offer to randomly different portions of mailing list, P1 can see which offer pulls best. Go with the best puller until find a better draw. As P1 try different offers and different letters, they will find one does better than another. Use the better one, and then try to beat that in the next mailing. Eventually, P1 could get better and better response rates. The mailing campaigns are potent to generate immediate response for advertisers and are also easy to track performance of campaigns. Moreover, P1 can take entrepreneurial achievements far beyond their competitors if they use this campaign correctly. 7. 3 Product Development: product †¢ R&D in service stability Stability is one of the stimuli that create customer retention in telecommunication industry, and it can be one of the most attractive unique selling point attracts more potential customer to subscribe P1 WiMAX internet services. So, R&D on current P1 WiMAX and come out with a more stable service rather than just emphasizing on speed improvement can draw numerous of potential customer from other competitors. More stability, in customer’s mind, means more reliability. †¢ Packaging of the product The modem of P1 is a little big compare to other competitors, it maybe not convenience for whom which are bring along and travel around. In order to attract more customers, the design and the package of the modem should be more stylish and portable. For example, with the environment now furnished with modern, a broadband also can be designed as a necklace which is easy to take and keep. Moreover, it also can be a decoration for girls. 7. 4 Diversification-distribution: product †¢ Come out with mobile telecommunication service P1 can diversify their service into mobile telecommunication service. This is a new, challenging and profitability market for P1 to diversify into it. Although P1 have to bear a high risk for press ahead towards mobile telecommunication service industry since there are already three major players which is Celcom, Maxis and Digi had dominated most of the market shares. However, as every person has to had one mobile phone in this 21th century, mobile telecommunication service is an enormous, long lasting and highly profitability industry to target. In order to penetrate this new market segment, P1 could establish a partnership with Sony Ericsson. Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications is chosen because it’s a global provider of mobile multimedia devices. It is famous and well known. A good relationship with right company can become an essential pull factor for P1 development. 8. 0 Target market and Positioning 8. 1 Target market These new implementation plans targets people who live in urban areas. Whereas Mobile telecommunication service are targeting students who are currently using P1 services 8. 2 Positioning As to coordinate with the new implementation plans P1 should position themselves as an affordable, reliable, and fastest wireless broadband network. For mobile telecommunication service, P1 should position themselves as affordable, reliable and emphasis on joyfulness to communicate with friends and families. ———————– Threat of New Entry: 1. Require enormous capital to enter 2. Telecom License 3. High advertising cost 4. ([email  protected] · A – > ? L M T V W l 2 K L cI µÃ‚ ­Ã‚ ¦Y ¦?  ¦Y ¦Ã¢â‚¬ËœÃ‚ ¦S‚~‚u‚Sn‚~‚e‚n ¦Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ]‘V‚ hCk9hoâ€Å"hCk9ho|w5? hCk9hy^A0J hCk9hy^AhCk9hyWe0Jh? sjh? sU[pic] hCk9hyWe hCk9huo% hCk9h? a hCk9h? hCk9hshCk9hy^A5? 0hCk9hOyk5? B*[pic]CJOJQJaJmHphsH0Skill human resources capital 5. High exit barrier Competitive rivalry: 1. More than 10 ISP 2. New carriers lead to price war 3. Advertising war 4. High customer churn rate Supplier Power: 1. Moderate number of suppliers 2. Able to change Buyer Power: 1. Many Suppliers 2. Seeking for lowest prices but have better services 3. Low switching cost Threat of substitution: 1. High substitution threats from non-traditional telecom industries’ product and services.

Education Is the Main Agent of Secondary Socialisation Essay

Secondary socialisation is an ongoing process which occurs when a child leaves a family environment and continues learning how to live as a member of society. There is always an influence to help carry out this process, this is known as an agent of socialisation. The perfect example of an agent of secondary socialisation is Education, more precisely, school. At school, the student continues learning that which they started learning at home. The aim of education is for the individual to learn how to behave in certain situations and places. One of the main aims of education in schools is the preparation for the world of work, one of the most predominant aspects of social life. Functionalists view the positive aspects when it comes to education’s contribution to society as a whole. Functionalists view education as meritocratic, stating that it is a system which is fair on everyone. They attribute intelligence and effort as being the keys to success. Parsons, a functionalist, says that schools are a major tool when it comes to role allocation. He views education as being important when selecting the future roles of individuals in society. In his own words, he states that an educational system ‘’functions to allocate these human resources within the role-structure of adult society’. Parsons therefore concludes that schools test the student while also evaluates them, to give a suitable job based upon the talents and skills that the student has. Parsons view regarding the values transmitted may not have been that of society as a whole, but perhaps as a ruling minority. Something which Parsons has been criticised for. His view upon schools being a meritocratic system was also questioned. Meanwhile, another functionalist, Durkheim, says that schools are society in miniature which is modelled after the social system. Same as in society, in school, an individual has to abide by a certain set of rules which in turn prepares the student for interaction with the members of society as a whole. Durkheim believes that the rules should be enforced and also punishments should be given to reflect the offence’s seriousness. This being done as a lesson for pupils to act in favour of the interests of society as a whole and also learning to exercise self-discipline in the process. Durkheim also claims that the students learn specific skills which are important for their future occupation, saying that this is important due to the increasing specialisation of labour. Durkheim is criticized for her descriptions of how schools act, with some researchers questioning this. David Hargreaves says that education in modern Britain fails to promote self-discipline. Bowles and Gintis, Marxist economists, do not agree with the Functionalists in their view that education is meritocratic. They believe that achievement can be influenced by the class background, citing this influence as the most important one, claiming that there is no such thing as equality. Despite education being open to all, they claim that some have more opportunities than others. Children who are of wealthier and more powerful backgrounds tend to have higher qualifications and more respectable jobs, without any reference to their abilities. Bowles and Gintis say that this is disguised by a myth of meritocracy done by the educational system. Those who do not have access to success do not blame the system which has forced them to fail, but blame themselves. Their views are criticised for claims regarding how the student’s personalities are shaped because of the school. No matter what kind of view or perspective is presented regarding the subject of education, it is quite obvious that education or school is one of the main agents of socialisation because we can say that school regulations are similar to those we find in the work place. Therefore the student learns norms and values that are expected in society.

Comparisons of two Information Security Management Frameworks Essay

Comparisons of two Information Security Management Frameworks - Essay Example Security responsibilities in an organization are all-embracing that is why it is important to associate the employees in formulating the program. SQL information system management used in health care The health care information technology system in several instances is predisposed to various risks and threats among other vulnerabilities. The situation gets worse when such vices are channeled towards the information system targeting patients with life threatening conditions. Some of the risks, threats, and vulnerabilities include and are not limited to accessing public internet without authority, hacking resulting to penetration of IT infrastructure, and fire torching primary data (Rodrigues 56). In most instances, health-care centers have put in place web-based patient and physician portals to enable visibility in the organizations financial and clinical data. The physician portal is normally used for various purposes including viewing radiology and laboratory results, obtaining elec tronic medical records and completing charts. Similarly, the patient portal enables accessing patient’s information including test results, billing information, prescribed medication, scheduled appointments, and medical conditions. However, if secure coding of the web application is not implemented, vulnerabilities such as SQL injections and cross-site scripting are likely to occur. This occurs based on actions of exploitation from unauthorized users who may compromise sensitive information confidentiality via the internet (Gentile 69). Notable tools employed in the identification of healthcare related online risks include the Web inspect scanner by Hewlett, Web vulnerability scanner by Acunetix and the watchfire Appscan by IBM. Application of the above systems would then go ahead in selective selections of authentic databases, passwords, and user identities as far as the internet security is concerned. In order to tackle various threats and risks, sections of clinical system s have adopted wireless networks, which they use to present and obtain information at the point of care. For example, this has been applied at bedsides (Gentile 41). The wireless network policy enables the use of wireless network infrastructure to handle patient’s information systems. This kind of system with proper coding plays a significant role in ensuring that there is integrity, confidentiality, and reliable availability of patient’s information. If proper securing of information is not enhanced under such circumstances, it would greatly affect the organizations internal systems. The wireless network system ensures that proper regulations and procedures are put in place to handle the patient’s information systems. These include performance logs and network security. Training of steps in this field would then enable justified users such as permitted staff to understand encryptions and authentication of wireless mechanisms that are in use. To identify where u nauthorized access points and rogue users are located, system administrators should use wireless scanning tools. On the same note, hospitals offering free access to wireless network for the public must always ensure that the person accessing information is

Land Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Land Law - Essay Example Type your answer to the question using the standard template ensuring you comply with the page limit set in the module handbook for that piece of work. You need to enter your name into the header on the coursework template. Ensure footnotes appear at the bottom of the page end notes are not an acceptable alternative. DO NOT change any of the settings (paper size, font, font size, spacing or margins), write within the margins nor change any existing wording within the header. DO NOT cut and paste on to the template from another document. Type your answer directly onto the template. Please note that ANY infringement of the template will result in a maximum mark of 40% being awarded. Also be aware of the penalties for late submission of coursework. (Details are found within the LLB Student Handbook). Paper Size: A4 Font: Ariel 10 Top and Bottom margins: 2.54cm Header and Footer: 1.27cm Left and Right margins: 3.17cm The margin settings can be checked before printing by clicking on page layout in the Windows tool bar and then clicking on the ‘margins’ icon (within the dialogue box that opens click on ‘layout’ to check the header and footer margins). The font size can be checked under ‘home’ on the word tool bar. ... I also certify that I have checked the settings of my work before submission to ensure that I have complied with the template instructions. If this is untrue I acknowledge that I will have committed an assessment offence. Signature: (Enter the title of the coursework here or, if you have been set a long problem question which does not fit within this space, simply attach a copy of the question at this point) The duties and obligations and other matters that relate to relationships between landlords and tenants in the UK is primarily governed by the Landlord and Tenant (Covenants) Act 1995. This law became effective on 1 January 1995, which means that leasehold contracts entered into before it, are governed by common laws and other statutes in effect at that time. There are significant amendments introduced by the law, among which, is the release of a lessee from the contract once the contract is assigned to another. An author calls this a â€Å"mortal blow to the principle of privit y contract† in leasehold contracts.1 The problems discussed in the preceding pages are based on a leasehold contract entered prior to 1996 act but involves a freehold purchase after 1996. A couple of problems involved easements, which calls for the application of the relatively new Land Registration Act 2002. The last one tackles adverse possession, also governed by LRA 2002 and the Limitation Act 1980. 1.0 Richard A. Repairs The leasehold covenant between Meryl, the original landlord and Richard, the original leaseholder, was entered into prior to 1996, which was before the effectivity of the Landlord and Tenant (Covenants) Act 1995. Thus, Meryl and Richard’s leasehold covenant is

Ethics and Compliance Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Ethics and Compliance Paper - Essay Example The company also ensures abiding by the codes of ethics through the set integrity standards. In its quest to comply with the companies stated code of ethics, Pepsi- cola makes the financial report available to the shareholders for evaluation of their financial performance. The company believes in operating under strict ethical standards while ensuring accountability to customers and shareholders. The ethics in the Pepsi cola financial environment are initiated through the maintenance and presentation of financial statements to the board of directors (Reinemund, 2003). The has Internal control committees that govern and ensure production of the right financial reports on time. The company has insights on the compliance of financial regulations through the expertise in different departments and assistance from the internally controlled systems. In ensuring ethical behavior within the company, the audit department reports any issues concerning the internal quality of the board, which in turn subjects the reports to financial professionals. The company stresses the need of performance with purpose hence delivery of sustainable growth. Pepsi Cola in complying with their ethical standards they have worked hard in reducing carbon footprint and by giving back to the society. Pepsi cola also ensure that the employees have the option of healthy living in that they believe in giving back to the society increase and improve their performance. They have also invested a lot in ensuring that the environment is not polluted by the companies hence reduction in pa ckaging weights and water

Understanding Strategic Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Understanding Strategic Management - Assignment Example It has also assisted the organisation to understand their position on the global market. The internal analysis has illustrated various weaknesses and threats of the organisation such as strict pricing policy, legal issues and market saturation. The external analysis of the organisation has elaborated the current political, social, environmental and technological condition of their operated countries. It has also helped the management to analyse the impact of these situation on the overall performance of the organisation. The final outcome of the report has helped the management to introduce various new strategies to improve the performance of the organisation. The report is based on the situational analysis of the organisational strategies of the Starbuck Corporation, a leading multinational coffeehouse chain. Starbuck Corporation was established in the year of 1971 and it is headquartered in Washington, USA. The organisation operates in almost 62 countries through 19,767 company owned outlets. They have recorded revenue of $14.89 billion by the end of 2013 (Marketline, 2014). The internal and external analysis of the organisation will be conducted to understand the strategic position of the organisation. Therefore, a strategic formulation of the organisation will be discussed to analyze the most appropriate course of action to achieve the overall goal of the organisation. The long term objective of the organisation is to establish themselves as a premium seller of finest coffee products across the world. Their mission is to maintain the uncompromising business principle to achieve the sales growth (Marketline, 2014). The SWOT analysis will assist the management of the organisation to evaluate the internal strength and weaknesses of the organisation. This will also illustrate the external opportunities and threats to expand their business venture (Pahl and Richter, 2009). The changes in the political relationship with the raw material sourcing countries

Gun control Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Gun control - Research Paper Example However, in my opinion, I support that we need strict gun control laws in each country. In my country-China only policemen and military can have guns. The citizens can’t have guns. Due to the strict gun control laws, China’s murder rate was nearly the lowest in the world, well below countries such as Japan and Switzerland. China’s homicide rate stands at 0.8 cases per 100,000 people, Japan’s rate is 14. Therefore, strict gun control laws are needed in order to decreasing the murder rate. There are few ways we can strict gun control laws in the follow. One does not need to look very hard to find evidence that gun control is needed within the current era. The rash of mash shootings, to include the Colorado Theater shooting, Sandy Hook, as well as a great litany of others, underscores the fact that guns legally obtained through the proper channels are oftentimes utilized to commit these brazen acts of terror. As such, the issue that this comes down to is what the government can seek to do with regards to limiting the supply of guns while at the same time seeking to preserve the civil rights of individuals within society. Accordingly, the following arguments will present a case for why gun control and stricter gun laws are required; while at the same time presenting the case for why stricter gun laws will not necessarily improve the situation that has been thus far evidenced throughout society; relating to gun crimes and/or mass shootings. Firstly, there is he stance that further gun control would help to mimic the actions that have been taken in other nations around the globe. One does not have to delve too deeply into the statistics to realize that developed economies and societies, such as Germany, France, Italy, and Great Britain, do not experience anywhere near the same levels of gun crime as does the United States (O’Brien et al. 7). This is of course due to a number of reasons. The first of these has to do with the fact tha t the right to bear arms is not unique to the European nations that have thus far been listed. However, this inherent â€Å"right† is built into the United States Constitution with regards to the Second Amendment. This particular amendment guarantees that Congress will not impede the right of the citizen to own and bear arms. However, even a cursory analysis reveals the fact that laws such as a minimum age for purchasing firearms and/or the requirement to obtain a legal permit in order to conceal a weapon have already infringed upon this Second Amendment right. In this way, those who continually assert that the Second Amendment is hallowed ground that the government will never be able to infringe upon are sorely mistaken; as it has already been infringed upon, defined, and hedged by a great many different laws. An argument against further gun control in order to present the atrocities that have thus far been listed has to do with the fact that criminals are, by their very nat ure, disinterested with the impacts or repercussions of breaking the law. In this manner, seeking to engage further gun laws as a means of reducing the supply of guns available to these individual via legal channels will not necessarily solve the situation. Instead, it is reasonable to assume that if an individual intends on breaking the law in the first place, then they will equally be willing to purchase a firearm or ammunition on the black market; outside of the channels of supply that the United

Medicare and Medicaid Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Medicare and Medicaid - Essay Example A state sets its own eligibility standards. Qualifying for eligibility depends upon age, pregnancy and disability status, citizenship, and other assets. The state includes individuals who receive federally assisted income-maintenance payments and who do not receive cash payments. Medicaid focuses on the group who needs the outmost assistance due to financial instability. Federal poverty line level (FDL) determines the families who will receive the Medicaid program. However, not all the poor benefit from or receive the Medicaid program. Among poor groups in America, about 60% are not covered by the Medicaid program. Under the Medicaid, the state makes an agreement with the Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) to pay the health care providers and reimbursed Medicaid expenditures from the Federal Government. All Medicaid beneficiaries are exempted from copayments for emergency services and family planning services and exclude pregnant women, children under age 18, and hospital or nur sing home patients. On the other hand, Medicare is a social, health insurance program intended for the elderly and disabled Americans. Medicare has four parts. Part A and B deal with hospital insurance while part C and D deal with prescription drugs.

Should Workers be Allowed to Go on Strike Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Should Workers be Allowed to Go on Strike - Essay Example Workers strive to achieve their basic rights in the service industry and can use different techniques to persuade the authorities to provide them with these rights. Striking is one form of the persuasion techniques used by the workers to get their rights. In the garment industry, the workers should be allowed to go on strike for the reasons. Workers tend to go on strikes to persuade the authorities into their demands. Some argue that these workers tend to use these strikes in an unfavorable manner, and the strikes should be stopped. However, a worker thinks of this instance â€Å"What if my daily wage was low enough that I could not even feed my family?† In simple words, if the workers are not paid enough to meet their needs then they should at least have a right to appeal against injustice. Strikes allow the workers to appeal to the authorities regarding any of the issues that they face in the workplace. This further shows that workers have a weaker side if the authorities fo rced to implement a decision which is unjust. The strikes can only provide a way to the workers so that they can force the authorities to reconsider their decisions.

Strategic Managment for new busniess in state of Qatar is it really Essay

Strategic Managment for new busniess in state of Qatar is it really applied - Essay Example To find out how effective strategy implementation is taking place by the proper choice of strategies and tasks which are essentially concerned with effectively managing the resources, and those that are deployed in the limited part of the country within the context and guidance of the existing ones. The previous strategic management study was based on various areas like corporate finance, strategic planning, which is mainly concerned with world class industries and oil companies. The share trading was also a major part in dealing with the strategic choices and various market transactions taking place in the country. â€Å"The most efficient way of evaluating Qatar is to consider key dimensions which themselves are composites of multiple factors. Composite portfolio approaches have long been used by strategic planners. The biggest challenge in this approach is to choose the appropriate factors that are the most relevant to international planning. The two measures of greatest relevance are â€Å"latent demand† and â€Å"market accessibility.† (Executive Report on Strategies in Qatar: How to Strategically Evaluate Qatar, 2007). The main aim and the intention of strategic learning and management process is mainly to accomplish the strategic options and choices to make the markable changes and to primarily focus on the strategic point. The cross functional management makes the practical brilliance and specializations to make much greater contributions to the organizational process. (Mohamed Zain, 1985) The economic data obtainable from Qatar is the result of a choice of spatial econometric and timely forecasting models that are useful to forecast and distribute dormant demand diagonally to countries of the world and key distribution centers of prevailing authority within a country. This calls for proficiency in knowing the economic basics like the

Meaning of life Essay Example for Free

Meaning of life Essay The meaning of life is a philosophical question concerning the significance of life or existence in general. It can also be expressed in different forms, such as Why are we here?, What is life all about?, and What is the purpose of existence? It has been the subject of much philosophical, scientific, and theological speculation throughout history. There have been a large number of proposed answers to these questions from many different cultural and ideological backgrounds. The meaning of life is in the philosophical and religious conceptions of existence, social ties, consciousness, and happiness, and borders on many other issues, such as symbolic meaning, ontology, value, purpose, ethics, good and evil, free will, the existence of one or multiple Gods, conceptions of God, the soul, and the afterlife. Scientific contributions focus primarily on describing related empirical facts about the universe, exploring the context and parameters concerning the how of life. Science also studies and can provide recommendations for the pursuit of well-being and a related conception of morality. An alternative, humanistic approach poses the question What is the meaning of my life? The value of the question pertaining to the purpose of life may coincide with the achievement of ultimate reality, or a feeling of oneness, or even a feeling of sacredness. governs the universe. Closeness with the God of Israel is through study of His Torah, and adherence to its mitzvot (divine laws). In traditional Judaism, God established a special covenant with a people, the people of Israel, at Mount Sinai, giving the Jewish commandments. Torah comprises the written Pentateuch and the transcribed oral tradition, further developed through the generations. The Jewish people are intended as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation[69] and a light to the Nations, influencing the other peoples to keep their own religio-ethical Seven Laws of Noah. The messianic era is seen as the perfection of this dual path to God. Jewish observances involve ethical and ritual, affirmative and prohibative injunctions. Modern Jewish denominations differ over the nature, relevance and emphases of mitzvot. Jewish philosophy emphasises that God is not affected or benefited, but the individual and society benefit by drawing close to God. The rationalist Maimonides sees the ethical and ritual divine commandments as a necessary, but insufficient preparation for philosophical  understanding of God, with its love and awe.[70] Among fundamental values in the Torah are pursuit of justice, compassion, peace, kindness, hard work, prosperity, humility, and education.[71][72] The world to come,[73] prepared in the present, elevates man to an everlasting connection with God.[74] Simeon the Righteous says, the world stands on three things: on Torah, on worship, and on acts of loving kindness. The prayer book relates, blessed is our God who created us for his honorand planted within us everlasting life. Of this context, the Talmud states, everything that God does is for the good, including suffering. The Jewish mystical Kabbalah gives complimentary esoteric meanings of life. As well as Judaism providing an immanent relationship with God (personal theism), in Kabbalah the spiritual and physical creation is a paradoxical manifest ation of the immanent aspects of Gods Being (panentheism), related to the Shekhinah (Divine feminine). Jewish observance unites the sephirot (Divine attributes) on high, restoring harmony to creation. In Lurianic Kabbalah, the meaning of life is the messianic rectification of the shattered sparks of Gods persona, exiled in physical existence (the Kelipot shells), through the actions of Jewish observance.[75] Through this, in Hasidic Judaism the ultimate essential desire of God is the revelation of the Omnipresent Divine essence through materiality, achieved by man from within his limited physical realm, when the body will give life to the soul. Zoroastrianism Zoroastrianism is the religion and philosophy named after its prophet Zoroaster, which is believed to have influenced the beliefs of Judaism and its descendant religions.[77] Zoroastrians believe in a universe created by a transcendental God, Ahura Mazda, to whom all worship is ultimately directed. Ahura Mazdas creation is asha, truth and order, and it is in conflict with its antithesis, druj, falsehood and disorder. (See also Zoroastrian eschatology). Since humanity possesses free will, people must be responsible for their moral choices. By using free will, people must take an active role in the universal conflict, with good thoughts, good words and good deeds to ensure happiness and to keep chaos at bay.

Economic System Of Pakistan Economics Essay

Economic System Of Pakistan Economics Essay Pakistan is among some of developing countries who have achieved an average growth rate over 5. Pakistan economy has been emerged as an economy with 27th largest in world in term of Nominal. Pakistan has a mixed economy, major decisions are taken by Government and private enterprise, and also economy is exercised by these both sectors. Pakistan economy also depends on its industrialized sector like agriculture, textile etc. Pakistan came in being in 1947 and that time to the fifth decade of it the growth rate of it higher than the worlds economy at that time. In the decade of 1960 Pakistan was considered as a model f economic progression throughout the world. It was so much appreciated due to its economic development. Its yearly average growth rate at that time was 6.8 %. Karachi was the most dominant city who was participating god role for increasing the GDP rate and many others cities copied him and South Korea was one of them. Pakistan economy was down in the decade of 197 t0 1990 due to mismanagement of fiscal policy. But again it was recovered by policy of deregulation. This is a chart of trend of gross domestic product of Pakistan at market prices estimated by the International Monetary Fund with figures in millions of Pakistani Rupees. Year Gross Domestic Product US Dollar Exchange Inflation Index (2000=100) Per Capita Income (as  % of USA) 1960 20,058 4.76 Pakistani Rupees 3.37 1965 31,740 4.76 Pakistani Rupees 3.40 1970 51,355 4.76 Pakistani Rupees 3.26 1975 131,330 9.91 Pakistani Rupees 2.36 1978 283,460 9.97 Pakistani Rupees 21 2.83 1985 569,114 16.28 Pakistani Rupees 30 2.07 1990 1,029,093 21.41 Pakistani Rupees 41 1.92 1995 2,268,461 30.62 Pakistani Rupees 68 2.16 2000 3,826,111 51.64 Pakistani Rupees 100 1.54 2005 6,581,103 59.86 Pakistani Rupees 126 1.71 2Government of Pakistan has made considerable economic policies and also made new jobs and also trying for reduction the poverty using their scarce resources. Government are working effectively and collecting the taxes from all types of communities whether they are elite or middle and by using these taxes making the new products hence unemployment is decreasing, output growth rate is increasing and poverty is also decreasing. Pakistan is exporting more than before, they are producing double than 1990, they are trying to improve their ports and there roads in which easily transactions can be transported. Pakistan is getting benefits from agricultures trade, and country expects to get more and more profit from trade. Pakistan is also progressing by using their resources effectively like using CNG instead of petrol, Hence the import of oil from other countries has been decreased and the cost f many other things also be decreased. Now CNG has taken place in many fields like automobiles. Pakistan has become the 85th country among 181 countries in flagship report. Pakistan is better than china and Russia and also comes highest in South Asia. Pakistan Government investing more in IT department and making their business more mobile. But Now Pakistan economy is going to dogs due to inflation and other economic crisis, Pakistan Economy has to face a crisis like Balance of payment. In year 2008 Pakistan had been bailed out by monetary funds to repay your loans that were increase $ 7.6 billion to $ 11.3 billion. Pakistan economy condition in 2000 was the best condition that it had ever because that time it was emerged due to its spectacular growth, average GDP was 7% between 2003 to 2007.In October 2007 Pakistan revenue increased and become $ 13 billion due to increased in exports to $ 18 billons. Hence it was a turning point for Pakistan economy because $ 8.4 billion had been invested by foreigners. Depression phase of Pakistan economy was 2008 because this time was a grea t terrorism. Terrorism had very bad impact on the overall economy, value of money decreased, growth of output rate decreased. Everyone felt thread and investment f foreigners also decreased hence devaluation of rupee occurred. Political environment also the reason f this situation, the average of inflation n 2011 was 5 % to 7 %. 3Economic comparison of Pakistan 1999-2008 Indicator 1999 2007 2008 2009 GDP $ 75 billion $ 160 billion $ 170 billion $ 185 billion GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) $ 270 billion $ 475.5 billion $ 504 billion $ 545.6 billion GDP per Capita Income $ 450 $ 925 $1085 $1250 Revenue collection Rs. 305 billion Rs. 708 billion Rs. 990 billion Rs. 1.05 trillion Foreign reserves $ 1.96 billion $ 16.4 billion $ 8.89 billion $ 17.21 billion Exports $ 7.5 billion $ 18.5 billion $ 19.22 billion $ 18.45 billion Textile Exports $ 5.5 billion $ 11.2 billion KHI stock exchange (100-Index) $ 5 billion at 700 points $ 75 billion at 14,000 points $ 46 billion at 9,300 points $ 26.5 billion at 9,000 points Foreign Direct Investment $ 1 billion $ 8.4 billion $ 5.19 billion $ 4.6 billion External Debt Liabilities $ 39 billion $ 40.17 billion $ 45.9 billion $ 50.1 billion Poverty level 34% 24% Literacy rate 45% 53% Development programs Rs. 80 billion Rs. 520 billion Rs. 549.7 billion Rs. 621 billion Major part Pakistan income consists of its agriculture products and it produces a huge amount of following objects presented by FOASTAT and the ranking of producing these products are given below: No of objects Food Rank 01 Seed 3rd 02 Sugarcane 5th 03 Rice 11th 04 Wheat   10th 05 Onion 4th 06 Dates 5th 07 Cotton 4th 08 Mango 6th 09 Buffalo Milk   2nd 10 Oranges 11th 11 Chickpea 3rd 12 Apricot 3rd 4Pakistan foremost Natural resources are its land and rivers according to a survey Pakistans 25 % land for cultivation and it is watered by the canals, rivers and some other ways. Pakistan merchandise exports are the part f industrial sector and according to the accountants Pakistan 24 % GDP and 64 % merchandise export relies on this sector. There are some others industries involve like cements, chemical, surgical etc. 250px-Manufacturing_by_Province.jpg Small business has great impact on the overall economy of a country; here is also same thing SME has contributed more than 40 % in the economy of the country. It also reduced the unemployment, use the skilled people and increased the growth rate of output. Small businesses are running almost 90 % enterprises and also make the jobs for people about 80 percent. Pakistan is also improving auto mobile industry and investing in it. It also contributes the GDP like 2.8 percent. In 2010 Pakistan is on number one that used CNG. Almost 3000 CNG pumps are running in the country and more than 2000 are in under construction. Pakistan is a country that is rewarded by its natural resources like rivers, cultivated land, mountains and many other minerals. Among them one of the significant mineral is mining, using their own resources like labor; It etc Pakistan has been found a most dominant country in this field. According to a survey at least 6, 00,000km 2 areas have metallic and non metallic commodities. Recently, a mining survey explores an ample which is the evidence of great minerals. In 1995, minerals policy took a step and said we will explore ourselves and call foreigners investors and it was favorably answered and now four projects are going for finding some new minerals.  [5]  250px-Service_Sector_by_Province.jpg Pakistan serves sector is also trying to improve GDP yet also they are contributing about 53 percent. Pakistan is also improving their IT department by investing more because it can make them more efficient and effective. The massive part of economy is gradually grow towards telecommunication according to a survey Pakistan has more than 18 million internet networks and 91 million mobile users in 2008. Banks are also providing massive amount to the people and industries for investing more and more, it is a good sign because money is continually flowing and the value f money could be increased. There was a very horrible situation in banking sectors in 2008; inspite of that Pakistan banking sector was massively enough determent at that situation. Pakistan is not using their resources rightly in case of electricity, due t this disease a lot of small business has to shut down and hence unemployment also increase. Like other countries Pakistan also has not good planning how to secure our i ncreasing population.

Theory Of Second Language Acquisition English Language Essay

Theory Of Second Language Acquisition English Language Essay Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is a critical issue to both teachers and learners of a second language equally. Thus, teaching and learning a second language has always been of a highly important matter for linguistics who always seek language learning solutions to facilitate instructors job and answer educational enquires .Fillmore and Snow, 2002 and Hamayan, 1990 stated that teachers can play a positive role in improving second language acquisition if they understood how to improve the learners ability of majority. This paper will be devoted to Stephen Krashens second language learning acquisition theory. It will go through the stages of the theory and some applicable strategies for L2 teachers and learns. Key words: mother tongue, second language acquisition, learning, L2, theory Introduction Linguist Stephen Krashen (1981,1982) , University of Southern California, USA has developed the most famous second language acquisition theory (SLA) which is also known as the Krashens Monitor Model. Krahsen has developed his theory of second language acquirers who are assumed to have two autonomous systems for improving their ability in acquiring a second language and aware of the language learning. So, these systems are interconnected in an explicit way where unconscious acquisition seems to be more vital as it takes place naturally. The theory rotates around hypotheses that young learners subconsciously pick up the target language similarly to acquiring their mother tongue in informal situations. In fact, this is totally different from formal learning where it is thought to be dominated by error alteration and the appearance of the grammatical rules (Krashen and Seliger,1975). In this paper, light will be shed on SLA theory, its components and how important for the L2 teachers to be familiarizes with it. Acquisition and learning Both the mother tongue and the second language acquisition share different aspects. They both require a meaningful interaction, authentic communication in which speakers are paying the most attention for conveying and understand the message rather than the form of their utterances. Error alteration is more likely not so important and teaching grammar is not applicable to acquiring a second language. Teaching should give acquisition an adequate chance to flourish and make the second language learner gains a self-confidence which will help him later on to realize his mistakes and overcome them as this technique will help the acquisition process. (Brown and Hanlon, 1970; Brown, Cazden, and Bellugi, 1973). On the other hand, formal language learning is thought to be overwhelmed by a great deal of error correction and the existence of explicit grammatical rules (Krashen and Seliger, 1975). Although error alteration is sustained, it helps the acquirer comes to the right psychological image of the linguistic simplification. It is said that, error correction hinders the language development with a feeling of continues anxiety governed by error phobia . Whether such feedback has this effect on the acquirer to a significant degree or not remains an open question (Fanselow, 1977; Long, 1977). 2. The natural order hypothesis This hypothesis in second language acquisition assumes that mastering second language grammatical rules occurred in a predictable order. Regardless of the mother tongue of the learners, acquiring the target language rules varies in terms of their sequential which means that some rules are acquired earlier than others. Yet, second language grammar should not be taught as it is supposed to be acquired in this natural order. 3. The monitor hypothesis This hypothesis states that acquiring an L2 will be developed automatically allowing the acquirer to monitor his new language grammatical rules and edit the mistakes unconsciously at some stage, which we will see later as the Monitor. These monitor uses vary from a learner to another, with different degree of accomplishment. Stephen Krashen (1981) classify the monitors into two types, Over-users who habitually try to use their Monitor, in fact, this application leads to a result of a correct language lacks a lot of natural fluency that should help the learners in their real live. Monitor Under-users either have not intentionally learned or decide to not use their aware information of the language. Even though the modification of errors by others has little effect on the learners, they can frequently correct themselves, later on, based on a good judgment for correctness. 4. The input hypothesis Krashens theory of SLA is also called the input hypothesis, which answers the question of how a target language acquirer develops competency over time. It states that a language learner who is at i level must receive sufficient and logical input that is at his level i and a new +1.The new +1 varies from a learner to a another where an x can pick something different form a z depending on his background, interest, priority, attention and the way it is presented. 5. The affective filter hypothesis Filtering the learners input varies from a stage to another, so a learner of a second language might not need to filter every single input at the early stage. The role of filtering the new input increases as the learner have sufficient comprehensive input. At later stage, when the second language learner masters a lot of L2 rules and have reached the advanced language proficiency, filtering becomes subconscious process. This process will shape the new language and internalize its rules forming a native like competency. The preceding five hypotheses of acquiring L2 can be summed as follow: 1. Acquiring a language is far more significant than learning. 2. For acquiring a new language, two conditions are essential,i+1 input, which should be formed slightly above the learners present stage, and the second, a low sense of filtering to allow the input takes place. Development of second language acquisition Stephen Krashens concept of second language acquisition intake means presenting a language context a little beyond the learners current competence in the L2 ( Krashen, 1981,p.103). He sometimes refers to it as we saw an i+1, meaning that the learning situations should challenge the L2 acquirer by presenting a new input and above the learners level so that he will acquire something new and construct on what he already has . The concept of the continuum of learning, is said to be a shared phenomenon by most current language theorists, where predictable and sequential stages of second language development occurs. A child can acquire a second language using almost the same techniques he applies in acquiring his mother tongue. In fact, it requires authentic situational interaction in the second language and meaningful communication in which the two parties are caring not with the structure of their vocabulary but with the communication they are passing on and understanding. Error alterati on and pure rules teaching is not relevant to language achievement as Brown and Hanlon, 1970; Brown, Cazden, and Bellugi, 1973 said. The second language learner progresses from no knowledge of the new L2 to a level of competency closely like a native speaker. These theories however, have identified different stages for the development of second language acquisition where they are identified in five phases: Stage 1, the receptive or preproduction stage This stage is also called the silent stage where the learners develop survival vocabulary, following different teaching and learning situations including playing, miming, simple games and listening to stories. This phase could last from hours to six months. As the learner feels comfortable, he/she starts understanding and interacting with the teacher, his classmates and the surrounding environment using a variety of techniques like pointing to surrounding things, standing up, closing the door, nodding or might responding using simple words like yes or no. Teachers are recommended not to force learners to speak at this stage. Stage 2,the early production stage After acquiring about 5000 words in the first stage, the learner adds 1000 active words, in another six months, enabling his/ her to speak one or two words phrase, and demonstrates understanding by responding to yes/no, some WH questions or to either or. New vocabularies are required to be presented side by side with revising the old ones. Mistakes are to be tolerated in speaking provided the message is understandable. Stage 3, the speech emerging stage The most prominent phenomenal of this stage is the production of L2 phrases and simple sentences. During the second year, the learners will start interacting using the second language in reading and writing for operational purposes. The surrounding should play a positive role in encouraging the L2 learner and ignoring mistakes as long as the message is understandable and clear. Stage 4,the intermediate fluency At this stage the L2 learner is more aware of the usages of academic words in different situations comprehending about 6000 active words. He/she can interacts outside the teaching and learning contexts without using L1 for interpretation thus, he still makes errors in complex grammar and the usages of new vocabulary. The learner can interacts in academic presentations using visual and hands-on science activities, solve math problems, making models, maps, participate in academic discussion, make brief oral presentations and answer higher level order thinking questions. Stage 5, the advanced language proficiency speakers This level can be mastered after from five to seven years. The learner can comprehended academic presentations without using visual illustrations. He can use higher reading comprehension skill, writing comprehension, reports and research papers. The learner can use L2 grammar and vocabulary comparable to his age native learners. Understanding the learners stage helps the instructor to tailor the material accordingly and build on the existing strengths and remedial the weaknesses. Mother Tongue and Second Language Acquisition Mother tongue interference has been of a high priority in the history of second language acquisition researches and practices. For a long time , it had been reputed that the main source of syntactic errors in adults L2 performance was their mother tongue (Lado, 1957), in addition to a huge deal of resources preparation was done with this assumption in mind (Banathy, Trager, and Waddle, 1966). Consequently, experimental studies of errors made by second language learners guided to the detection, however, that many errors are not specific to the rules of the mother tongue, but are familiar to second language users of different linguistic backgrounds (e.g. Richards, 1971; Buteau, 1970). These results have guided several researchers to examine the importance of contrastive study and to argue as an alternative for error examination. As clearly stated earlier, the mother tongue is one of a number of causes of error but other factors need to be measured. A research conducted by Selinker, Swain, and Dumas, 1975; Plann and Ramirez, 1976 found that , mother tongue influence appears to be higher in complex word order and in word for- word translations of phrases. Mother tongue influence tends to be weaker in bound morphology. Mother tongue influence also appears to be strongest in acquisition poor surroundings. And finally mother tongue influence errors here are also in the area of word order. Pedagogies Providing Krashens Theory The question which we all need to ask ourselves is, How can a second language learner benefits from a formal learning situations? Formal learning or face-to-face learning can be of a great benefit for an L2 learner if it provides a comprehensive input. If the learner current ability helps him to add something more to his i or as Vygotsky called ZOPD. It is also said that classroom or formal learning cannot provide the acquirer with the wide range of daily issues and social langue needed. So the classrooms role is to prepare the learners for dealing with real life situations by presenting a sufficient daily actual language contexts. The theory also suggested that learners who are not able to speak output for physical problems can still master the full ability to comprehended language by presenting comprehensible input dependence on each learner. Teachers need to be slower and carefully articulate using common vocabulary and avoid dilates , slang language and shorter sentences. Teachers should facilitate presenting the best possible monitor users as to promote communication and avoid hindering acquisition with grammatical rules domination. In addition to getting the appropriate input, acquirers need to have their emotional filter kept minimum which will help them get the maximum input from the surrounding and allow them to master the techniques of dialogue and ideas exchange. Conclusion: Acquiring and learning a second language is very important in a bilingual and multi lingual society. It is also a necessity in todays global world where technology is mostly restricted to specific countries speaking a small number of languages. In fact, a lot of students, teachers, specialist and politics find themselves in a bad need for learning these languages. As presented earlier, Krashens theory of second language acquisition, suggested some useful techniques for teaching and acquiring a second language. Teachers are urged to use such theories for facilitating their job and helping their students acquire and learn better. Although this theory was a result of studies conducted in America on bilingual and multilingual speakers, our students in the Arab world in general and in the UAE in particular could gain the most of it with the help of their teachers. The focus should be on how to gradually help the learners pick the foreign language in a way that focus on fluency rather than accuracy.

Fight Club and Our Consumer Identity Essay -- Fight Club Essays

Fight Club and Our Consumer Identity The narrator in the film Fight Club is questioned about his devastated condo and declares, "That condo was my life, okay? I loved every stick of furniture in that place. That was not just a bunch of stuff that got destroyed, that was me!" This attitude of defining self-identity through a consumer culture has become institutionalized in the American society. The film Fight Club addresses the excessive consumerism as a sign of emotional emptiness and as a form of self-distinction. While the title suggests that it is just another clichà © action movie, it is not so shallow or narrowly focused. It instead provides the viewer with a provocative view on American society and it raises valid questions about the values embraced by that society. As the film American Beauty dubbed, "...look closer." The film begins with a nameless narrator (Edward Norton), a corporate pencil-pusher who suffers from insomnia. A doctor tells Norton to quit complaining and stop by a support group for prostate cancer victims. He begins to attend this and other support groups, which helps Norton regain his ability to sleep and act as an outlet to release his emotions through crying. However, when Marla Singer (Helen Bonhem-Carter), another "faker," begins attending his support groups purely for the entertainment value, Norton once again cannot sleep. This is the least of his cares because when he comes back from a business trip he finds that his condo has exploded. Fortunately, on his flight home he had met the charismatic Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt), who sells soap and has a very unconventional view of life. Tyler offers his "dilapidated house in a toxic waste part of town" to the narrator and he takes a room... ... Man Alive" contest. So should we all give up all our material possessions and join an urban terrorism cult? Of course not. Nor am I suggesting that either Tyler or Jack are role models that should be emulated. However, it does seem that some Americans care more about their riches defining their identity than life defining it. Tyler’s message opens the door to a variety of questions surrounding what defines you as a person. Is it defined by your Nike shirt and VW Jetta? Or is it your personality, relationships, and experiences? Do you find someone attractive purely for his or her looks and Porsche? Or do you love someone because they’re kind, have a great smile, and are insanely funny? Through the media and advertisement we are fed the consumer identity. Fight Club just shows another way of looking at self-identity that is aside from the mainstream.