Uzbekistans History, Economic and Culture

Uzbekistan is a country in central Asia which boarders Kazakhstan in the northern side, Kyrgyzstan in the eastern side and Tajikistan in the southern eastern side. During the 4th century B.C it was under the Persian rule that had been conquered by Alexander the Great.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Uzbekistan’s History, Economic and Culture specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The region incorporated Islam as a religion in 8th century when the Arab forces invaded the land. Around the 13th century the region was taken over by the Mongols from the Seljuk Turks. The 16th century saw the region been merged with their neighbors but was not to last for long as the region broke into principalities (Adams 19). However, the city-states, which included khanates, Kokand and Bukhara were not to last for long as the Russians conquered them in the 19th century. In 1924, the territory was a republic but it is in 19 25 that it became an independent under socialist republic. However, in 1991 the country declared its independence making September 1st their national holiday. The country today enjoys independence with a presidential rule. Economically, the people of Uzbekistan are agriculturalist, however, the country is endowed with many minerals. Cotton has been their main produce but has recently been replaced by natural gas. The other minerals that the Uzbekistan people are involved with are gold and uranium. The country has recently grown to be a manufacturing country, especially in the automobiles industrial where they are a big exporter to Russian market. The state has always been in control of most business enterprises, but in the recent past free market has been endorsed (Oliker 46). It is not easy to determine the growth rate of the country because the government keeps unreliable records. However, it is notable much of the wealth of the country is held by the elite in the society with alm ost a quarter of the population living below the poverty line. The government has been instrumental in preventing the country from facing capital outflow by ensuring that the country adopts the policy of substitution of their imports. The actions of the government to control economic activities have even made convertibility of different currencies of the world. The low economy has transformed to some of the individuals in the country getting involved to human trafficking business. The business usually involves girls, as they are traffics to other countries as prostitutes (BoÄ ­kova 181). Amongst the people of Uzbekistan, the elders are the most respected people in the society. They have a mode of greetings where the men put their hands on the heart of other men when greeting them, while women usually put their right hands on each other’s elbow. The mode of dressing especially to women was such that they were to cover their bodies with their heads looking down to avoid any at tention. The people of Uzbekistan are mostly Muslims with a small percentage of people enjoying other religions like Buddhist and Jewish.Advertising Looking for research paper on geography? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Traditionally, matters of marriage were left to the man and the women but the approval of the parent was important. Virginity among the women was upheld and women were expected to be married much earlier than the men. Bride price had to be paid by the family of the man, and the cost incurred in the marriage ceremony was covered by the family of the wife (Hanks 83). There were defined duties of both men and women. While men were expected to work outside, the house women were expected to work indoors engaging in activities like weaving and spinning using cotton. Women were expected to cover the whole of their bodies when in public and they viewed it as observance of their faith (Adams 17). Traditional medicine was also incorporated in their treatment where herbs were used for treatment. There was also a taboo of drinking cold drinks since it was viewed as the reason why people caught cold. Arts performance that dated back during the soviet rule is still practiced. They include the crafts work as well as miniature painting. However, the practice of their music by the instruments they used in past is still in practice. Dotars that were put on the legs, flutes, and small drums are still used in the performance of their art. Unlike other countries in central Asia, Uzbekistan has adhered to the principle of legal stability. The constitution gives rights to the people to own private property and it views it as a way of giving self-respect to the people as well as a way of developing the society. Solid constitutional bases have been laid down through the years to promote and upgrade political and social relations. Economic freedom of the citizens has been highly promoted as well as the spirit of entrepreneurship with an aim of eliminating the repugnant old command-administrative system. The country has also incorporated a legal and organization environment where the society of Uzbekistan integrates with the world. Uzbekistan has adopted an open door policy that grants foreign investors reliable regal guarantee and broad economic opportunities in the economic activities. The environment for foreign investors has continually been improved as well as simplification of the procedures that are involved in creation of manufacturing enterprise for foreigners (Karimov 172). Regulatory acts created by Uzbekistan have had a comprehensive system of taxation and incentive against poetical and commercial risk for the foreigners. In turn, there has been active participation by foreign investors in this country. Some of their favorable policies to the foreigners are: freedom of buying property that the state has already privatized as well as ownership rights to these properties. Enterpri ses owned by foreigners are allowed to export without licenses as well to import duty free property from joint ventures (Karimov 173).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Uzbekistan’s History, Economic and Culture specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Economic relations between Uzbekistan and the United States have mostly been controlled by the bi-literal trade agreement signed by the two countries. The agreement was signed in 1994 and one of the benefits the agreements had to Uzbekistan was that it had an exemption provision to many of the United States importing tariffs. In the year 2000, the two countries signed a bilateral investment treaty but it did not come into force because of the weak economic reforms in Uzbekistan. In terms of imports and exports, Uzbekistan imports machines and equipment. Also inclusive in the list of the imports are chemical products and food items, especially the ones that d eal in plastics. The exports to the United States include inorganic chemistry products machines and equipment (Group Taylor Francis 2548). American companies have also been involved in investing in Uzbekistan economy in establishment of technological base in both agriculture and mining sectors. Infrastructure and food processing are also other sectors of the economy where American companies have actively involved themselves in. The American company General Motors has also established a strong link with the government of Uzbekistan and collaborated in manufacturing of cars. It is also notable that Uzbekistan is the biggest export of uranium in United States (Zhukov 213). The relation between United States and Uzbekistan can be traced back to 1991 when Uzbekistan was established as an independent nation. The following year saw the establishment of Uzbekistan embassy in United States. From that time, as part of the U.S policy, campaigns have been launched to support Uzbekistan upheld the rule of law. The relationship between the two countries increased after September 11 attacks, which led to the war in Afghanistan. However, the closeness between the two countries went a drift when United States requested the international community to get involved in investigating the Andijon violence of 2005. The reason behind sourness in the relations on was because Uzbekistan did not want involvement of United States or other European powers in influencing the government activities. However, year 2007 saw the two countries improving the relationship among them (Thackrah 240).Advertising Looking for research paper on geography? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The relations were all round as they included security issues civil issues as well as economic issues. It is also an attempt by the United States to ensure that there is peace in central Asia since Uzbekistan is the country with the biggest population and the most instrumental in keeping stability. The new relation between the two countries has since to improve to the best as in the United States assistance budget there was a provision that seeks to ensure better livelihood for the people of Uzbekistan (Group Taylor Francis 554). The relationship between the two countries has also promoted the level of education in Uzbekistan as many students from Uzbekistan have studied in American universities. Works Cited Adams, Laura L. â€Å"The Spectacular State: Culture and National Identity in Uzbekistan.† Durham: Duke University Press , 2010. Print BoÄ ­kova Elena Vladimirovna, R. B. Rybakov. â€Å"Kinship in the Altaic world: proceedings of the 48th Permanent International Altais tic Conference, Moscow 10-15 July, 2005.† Wiesbaden: Otto Harrassowitz Verlag , 2006. Print Group, Taylor Francis. â€Å"Eastern Europe, Russia and Central Asia 2004, Volume 4.† Lndon: Routledge , 2003. Print Group, Taylor Francis. â€Å"Europa World Year Book 2, Book 2.† London: Taylor Francis, 2004. Print Hanks, Reuel R. â€Å"Central Asia: a global studies handbook.† Califonia: ABC-CLIO, 2005. Print Karimov, I. A. â€Å"Uzbekistan on the threshold of the twenty-first century: challenges to stability and progress.† New York: Palgrave Macmillan , 1998. Print Oliker Olga, Thomas S. Szayna. â€Å"Faultlines of conflict in Central Asia and the south Caucasus: implications for the U.S. Army, Issue 1598.† Califonia: Rand Corporation, 2003. Print Thackrah, John Richard. â€Å"Dictionary of terrorism.† New York: Routledge , 2004. Print Zhukov, Boris Z. Rumer Stanislav Viï ¸  aï ¸ ¡cheslavovich. â€Å"Central Asia: the challenges of ind ependence.† New York: M.E. Sharpe , 1998. Print This research paper on Uzbekistan’s History, Economic and Culture was written and submitted by user Silver Gorilla to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Envy

Envy The Oxford definition of envy is a feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by another’s better fortune (Allen 392). The focus of the seven deadly sins is based on religious thought. Envy is defined religiously as† thou shall not covet.† According to the Roman Catholic catechisms envy is considered a â€Å"venial† sin, but it would need to be confessed. Thus, if an individual commits a venial sin and does not confess, one would have to spend time in purgatory before entering heaven (Matusiak). Kevin J. Rice states that the Methodist position that envy is an emotion and that it is the feeling of glee that a person has. Accordingly the individual does not envy an object but envies the people who use the object. One instance would be,† I am not envious of a Corvette; I am envious of a person who owns a Corvette because I would like the emotions of glee, power, and speed that come with driving it† (Rice). Analyzing the word o rigin, the term envy is the Latin word invidere, which meant to look at askance or to see with malice. The Latin root word comes from the Greek, eidos, meaning form or idea (Iyer). In the twentieth century Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalytical theory, defined envy as a major characteristic of emotional distress. His classic example is the Electra theory in which younger girls envied the male penis and thus felt inadequate throughout their lifetime. Freud’s position was based upon Judaic thought and the culture of his time in the nineteenth century Austria (Sigmund). Throughout recorded history are many incidences of groups, religions, and nations who envy each other. Spain in the sixteenth century was probably the richest of the European nations after they looted the Americans of billions in gold. They were constantly at war, their ships were plundered, and their treasures were scattered to the Holy Roman Empire (Zevin 367). Currently, the poorer Muslim ... Free Essays on Envy Free Essays on Envy Envy The Oxford definition of envy is a feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by another’s better fortune (Allen 392). The focus of the seven deadly sins is based on religious thought. Envy is defined religiously as† thou shall not covet.† According to the Roman Catholic catechisms envy is considered a â€Å"venial† sin, but it would need to be confessed. Thus, if an individual commits a venial sin and does not confess, one would have to spend time in purgatory before entering heaven (Matusiak). Kevin J. Rice states that the Methodist position that envy is an emotion and that it is the feeling of glee that a person has. Accordingly the individual does not envy an object but envies the people who use the object. One instance would be,† I am not envious of a Corvette; I am envious of a person who owns a Corvette because I would like the emotions of glee, power, and speed that come with driving it† (Rice). Analyzing the word o rigin, the term envy is the Latin word invidere, which meant to look at askance or to see with malice. The Latin root word comes from the Greek, eidos, meaning form or idea (Iyer). In the twentieth century Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalytical theory, defined envy as a major characteristic of emotional distress. His classic example is the Electra theory in which younger girls envied the male penis and thus felt inadequate throughout their lifetime. Freud’s position was based upon Judaic thought and the culture of his time in the nineteenth century Austria (Sigmund). Throughout recorded history are many incidences of groups, religions, and nations who envy each other. Spain in the sixteenth century was probably the richest of the European nations after they looted the Americans of billions in gold. They were constantly at war, their ships were plundered, and their treasures were scattered to the Holy Roman Empire (Zevin 367). Currently, the poorer Muslim ...

Women of Color at the Workplace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Women of Color at the Workplace - Essay Example Today, the community comprises almost one-fifth of the workforce in the United States. Research indicates that major developments have happened regarding the recruitment of women of color in the recent past. The enlisting of each segment of women looked into such as Black American, Latino, Asian and Aboriginals, increased in the recent past (Amott and Matthaei 157). More females from all the categories are absorbed as officials and key members of the executive teams in the industrial sector. This paper examines how women of color used feminism to increase their power in the workplace. Statistics According to Amott and Matthaei (53) â€Å"Native Americans struggling for tribal autonomy and for the recognition of broken treaties have also had to confront corporate greed †¦Ã¢â‚¬  This implies that women of color have achieved tremendous gains, in terms of population at the workplace and the statuses of workplace environments, though not easily. Despite the progress made, there ar e still a number of stubborn occurrences which require more concern. Quite a large number of women of color tend to prefer particular industrial sectors and seem to have concentrated in insignificant occupational positions. Statistics indicate that â€Å"Native American women’s labor force participation rates rose sharply between 1970 and 1990, from 35 percent to 55 percent† (Amott and Matthaei 59). Nevertheless, in the recent past, they have achieved the smallest returns regarding total absorption into jobs and positions of significance, far smaller than the level of growth of Latinos and Asians. In the meantime, black women surpass their work force percentage as sales employees, clerical officers and those in the service sector. Notably, the Nursing and Residential Care Facilities sector absorbs the largest proportion of Black American women vis-a-vis the greatest proportion of women in general. Replacing men during World War I Whereas the chance for the women to ext end their careers came into fore during the First World War, there were several grounds why women of color transformed their principles to occupy the new job opportunities left by men. The main reason behind more women power at the workplace was inspired by patriotism factor. The then message from the government summoned women to support the country. Equally linked to this patriotic call was the need to engage in something more fascinating and different, and an issue which would enhance the combat effort. Higher remuneration, also partly contributed, as did the prevailing shore up in social status, though a number of women of color took up the opportunities in the workplace out of absolute need, because of the government program, which differed by country and eventually rooted for only the families of absent military officers did not meet the shortage. Unions and strikes Although, the war resulted in many new options for the women and job opportunities, it did not normally impact an increase in the earnings of the women, which were traditionally much poorer than men’s. In the United States, for instance, rather than offer a woman what a man would have pocketed, according to government policies on equal regulations, recruiters divided responsibilities down into less significant tasks, employing more women of color for each task and offering them peanuts for carrying out the responsibility. This increased the bureaucracy of the women, but shrunk their earnings. During the World War I, women organized strikes citing meager pay, developments that lasted days or several weeks as the war transpired. Amott and Matthaei (56) indicate that in 1980s, â€Å"American Indian women continued to form pan-Indian women’s organizations for self-determination and against sexism.†

The argument Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

The argument - Essay Example It is also believed that India was one of the few countries which pioneered the consumption of this plant as a tool for recreation and relaxation. The Sadhus and the Gurus who practiced the art of spiritual elevation found this plant to be extremely useful for their purpose. Ancient Hindu text Soma Veda refers to Marijuana as the â€Å"food of the thinking mind.† (ElSohly, Mahmoud) Despite being termed as a life saving drug, there are a number of side effects of this plant because of which the legalization of marijuana has not yet had a concrete stance in the law making process. Marijuana comes from the plant known as Cannabis Sativa. The major psychoactive compound in the plant is known as THC, and this is the element which is responsible for the psychoactive effects in the human mind. The female plant of Cannabis Sativa is consumed by people as it is said to be more potent with THC than the male plant. Marijuana has been used for medicinal as well as recreational purposes. I t influences the human body and mind in many different ways and even has the power of changing the mood to the perception of the human mind for a particular object. It enhances hunger when consumed and can lead to weight loss among those who consume it. It relaxes the muscles and also helps the mind calm down after the THC molecules hit the ‘cannabinoid’ receptors which are present in the human mind. ... The reason is valid as they understand that no matter what the law says, people will still be able to find means to procure Marijuana and consume it for their relaxation purposes. (Iversen, Leslie) However, they fail to understand that in spite of them consuming the plant in such a fashion, it remains a fact that this is not the legal way and they are going beyond the boundaries of law to procure and use this item. This is where the argument of legalizing Marijuana erupts, as those who want to smoke it and want it to be legalized raise their voice. These are the people who say that the boundaries of law have to be stretched to accommodate those societies which have been living on this plant for centuries now. However, there is strong counter argument from the other camp, as they believe that it is a drug and has extremely volatile effects on the human mind and body, and therefore it should never be legalized. The topic is indeed compelling and timely. The argument of legalizing Marij uana will never run out of time. It has been a debate which has been going on for ages now and the whole process of societies opening up to it and accepting it the way they have accepted alcohol will take a lot of time and effort, from those who want to legalize it and also from those who think it is in the right domain to legalize it and let the people decide for themselves. People from all walks of life have indulged in this ecstasy, be it the rock stars, the founding fathers of USA, or the common average man smoking in his courtyard, or the young students in college ready to take on the mantle of their life. It has been used and consumed by every kind of person out there and

World Bank project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

World Bank project - Essay Example Some of the main economic sectors that the Senegalese government feels that continued skill development should be enhanced include the tourism sector, horticulture and poultry farming sectors. The initiative by the World Bank to fund the training programme for the young people in Senegal has led to massive improvements in the job market. In addition, the cases of joblessness among the young people in Senegal has significantly reduced. The project was awarded a $35 million loan for full implementation. The project is very beneficial to the economic development of Senegal. The project will improve the level of skills among the young people. In essence, the project will aid in the diversification of the economic activities in Senegal. Over 60% of the total Senegalese population is employed in the agriculture. However, the contribution of agriculture to the country’s economic growth is less than twenty percent. In this regard, offering sufficient relevant training to the young people in the fields of agriculture and tourism can aid in boosting the economic growth of the country. The project aims at increasing the country’s agricultural production and to boost returns from tourism activities. In essence, the project will boost the contribution of common economic activities to the country’s economic growth and development. Most young people are idle because of lack of skills in the various industries. Young people are very productive since they are energetic and can easily adapt to changes. Actually, the young people have a better understanding capacity compared to the old people. In this case, offering training to the young people is very economic since they understand concepts at a higher rate than the old people. For this reason, the project will aid in boosting the level knowledge among the young people and reduce idleness in the streets. The project will aid the Senegalese

Study of Nikon Corporation

Study of Nikon Corporation The Nikon has gone global and divides the globe to six regions of its operation which are the Americas, Europe, Asia, Oceania, Middle East, and Africa. The products have also been grouped in to imaging products (Digital/film cameras, lenses and accessories), precision equipment (IC/LCD steppers and scanners), sport optics (Binoculars, telescopes and laser rangefinders), instrument products (Microscopes and measuring instruments), and ophthalmic lenses (Single vision and progressive addition lenses) (Nikon, 2010). It has a capital of  ¥ 65,475 million as of March 31 2010, where the consolidated net sales were  ¥ 785,498 million as of March 31 2010 while unconsolidated net sales as of March 31 2010 were  ¥ 572,972 million (Nikon, 2010). The numbers of employees in the corporation are approximately 26,125 as of March 31 2010 where the number is not inclusive of employees in subsidiary and associated companies. The company also has five main plants that include the Ohi plant, Yokohama Plant, Sagamihara Plant, Kumagaya Plant, and Mito Plant (Reynolds, p.23). The company has developed products of quality throughout the years where the core technology center, the research and development center and the production technology center are responsible for quality and innovation. Its imaging products (72.5%) contribute to a huge proportion of the sales followed by precision equipment (19.1%), instruments (5.7%) and others (2.7%) respectively (Nikon, 2010). The Nikon philosophy is Trustworthiness and Creativity that presents the unchanging principles that the company are dedicated to. The aspirations include Meeting needs and exceeding expectations where the company does not just stop at meeting the customer needs but also providing the customer with new products of value that exceed expectations; aiming at sustained growth through continuous development of all products; maximizing on the understanding and knowledge on light to produce products that transform and lead the markets currently and in future; and maintaining high integrity so as to contribute to the prosperity of the society (Nikon, 2010). The commitments of Nikon are being firstly being pro active i.e. Be broad-minded and well-informed in order to act quickly and resolutely Second seeking new knowledge i.e. Pioneer new potential through self-study and insatiable curiosity thirdly is effective communication i.e. Harmonize diverse skills by thinking out of the box and communicating effectively with others and last but not least displaying integrity i.e. Work with diligence and sincerity as a responsible individual (Nikon, 2010). The goal is Transforming imagination into creativity (Nikon, 2010). This paper critically examines the Nikon Corporation its history products, markets, goals and philosophy. It continues to scrutinize the company by performing a Strength Weakness Opportunities Threats Analysis which is crucial in matching the companys resources and capacity to the competition it faces in its operating environment; and a 4 P Product Services Pricing Promotion and Placement Mix analysis. It elaborates the position the corporation stands in the market and current and future opportunities that the company has in terms of growth and sustainability. Strength Weakness Opportunities Threats Analysis Nikon has been well placed in the markets in the markets and this gives the company a competitive advantage (Armstrong, p.34). This involves an environmental scan where the internal and external analysis is carried out. The Strengths The patent rights of the brand are high Nikon boasts of a global established brand that sells globally and is demanded by so many customers. The Nikon products are renowned throughout the world and thus give the company a strong basis to establish itself over it competitors and any new entrant in to the markets (Tarcy Et al p.47). This is seen as strength in that the brands are preferred by customers thus more sales are made and hence more revenues to the company. When the patent right is high the company has a lot of goodwill with the company and thus becomes the favorite and hence controls a larger share in the market. High technology in the production of products; Nikon has a reliable brand that is based on high level technological supremacy and resource and development. This has been established by the company since its inception where the products developed suit the market and become leaders in the market because of their level of technology (Nikon, 2010). The company has continued to phase out the products that are out of technology and introduced competitive products in the market that make life convenient and more comfortable. The company has invested a lot in resource and development and alliance, and industrial knowledge so as to keep on producing basic technological products that control the market. The Nikons starring technology is developed in the optics, image processing, materials, precision measurement and manufacturing, software and system technologies. The technology has continued to be unique and superior which offers better performance and functionality. Such technology include Super-Resolution in Non-Linear Optical Lithography, High-Precision Thin films, Ultra-Precision Molds, Image Processing Algorithms, Lead-Free Electronics Technology, Nano Particle Coating, Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs), Computer Aided Engineering (CAE), Vibration-Reduction (VR) and Predictive Focus Tracking System (Nikon, 2010). Quality has also been a strong point for Nikon in that the products produced have always been regarded for their high quality in the market. This makes Nikon products have a competitive advantage over its competitors. The diversification of the products that the company has is also a very strong strategy to remain in business (Tarcy Et al. p.52). This is the case because the company does not rely on a single product to get its revenues thus diversify the risks in the markets. The company has diversified to produce products like microscopes, measurement instruments, binoculars, cameras, and steppers that it has continued to dominate the market and contribute to the companys revenue. Nikon continues to boast of a very wide distribution network. The global dominance in the five regions which are the Americas, Europe, Asia, Oceania, Middle East, and Africa gives it a competitive advantage over those with ineffective distribution mechanisms (Nikon, 2010). Even in each region there is specialty in the products that are more preferred by the customers hence more sales. There is also presence of subsidiaries and affiliate companies that make the products available to the customers easily and in time. The effective distribution network enables the company to study the dynamics of the market in time and respond quickly before the markets are dominated by other competitors. The global presence is strength due to balancing of the currencies where the company can absorb shock from depreciation of currencies in areas that they are operating in (Tarcy Et al. p.71). The global presence can also be important in that when products are not moving in one region they can be transferred to other regions that require the products and thus promote business. Nikon has global and regional presence that enables the company to study the dynamics of each region and apply the best strategy. It is also possible to shift the products to other markets when they are bought at a slower rate in other regions thus save on production. Nikon has also invested a huge amount of finances in its business; the capital of  ¥ 65,475 million invested by the company is a way to lock out investors that cannot raise such an amount hence helps it in dominating the markets. The Nikon D1H camera is known for its solid build where the handling and the ergonomics is very efficient with a strong and fast autofocus. It is also weatherproof and is very fast since it as the 5 fps. It also produces large images that are approximately 40 jpeg fine (Nikon, 2010). Weakness Nikon has a poor marketing strategy where promotion of products has been low and the products have not been known to many consumers. The marketing systems have been reluctant and not aggressive enough to make the products known in all regions. The production of the Nikon scan scanner software that was faulty was a major weakness to detest its products in the market. The Nikon Scan has remained redundant in the number of images it determines in that it only determines 99 images and stops working (Nikon, 2010). For images above 100 the scanner must be restarted to continue its function. This is a very crucial part in that the customer can judge the products quality through one product and lead to rejection of the rest. The scanner software did not also have proper calibration procedures even after the purchase of an IT-8 Target. The Nikon NiMh camera batteries are not user friendly also they are heavy and big while they are sold expensively at shops (Nikon, 2010). They are also bad since they need recharge or be replaced once the camera is put in use for a shorter time than other cameras. There is a global phobia where people detest products from Japan and China and see then as counterfeits or of low quality. Products from these countries may have low sales due to such phenomenon and the company must be able to fight this negative attitude of the products it produces. Opportunities The digital world has numerous chances that have not been exploited the customers are yet to be fulfilled (Bà ¶hm, p.23). Customers still yearn for better digital products as they are produced. Any company that deals in technology has opportunities to control the market share through unique products or products that are user friendly and technologically advanced. In cameras manufacturing better products gives the company a chance to remain competitive. In view of the fact that Nikon has invested heavily in resource and development then it stands a chance to better opportunities. Trade is being liberalized in many regions and thus there are possibilities of governments loosening regulations of operations. This will be instrumental in allowing further development of the company to such countries where it is not yet penetrated (Ferrell, Hartline, p.35). Nikon has the capability to expand its production processes to other countries where there is distribution is done from exports. This will be easier and cheaper to reduce costs of production since the products are will be produced locally hence extra costs are eliminated (Bà ¶hm, p.48). Nikon may prefer mergers with companies like Sony so as to be much effective and build an empire that will control a large market share. a vertical merger will be more effective where the companies do not loose their identity but merge as a necessity to better their business objectives. Threats Nikon faces stiff competition from other globally renowned companies such as Sony, Olympus, Panasonic, Fujifilm, Canon, Kodak, Casio, and Pentax that all deal with the similar products. Such companies pose a threat of controlling the market share that Nikon holds. There is also the threat that the customers may shift their taste and prefer other companys products due to better marketing techniques applied by the other companies. New regulations may appear in different regions that may affect the companys operations in view of the fact that they may be unfavorable or strict. These regulations may include trade regulations that may be a barrier to efficient trade. In the Middle East peace has not been brokered by the warring parties and this political stand off will be a threat to business in the region. 4P strategy The Product Services, Pricing, Promotion, and Placement (Distribution) analysis of Nikon Corporation will be effective in establishing the companys position in the market and the opportunities that may be available for sustainable growth (Ferrell, Hartline, p.39). This gives a customer oriented approach that ensures that the business ventures into the market in a way that it will meet all the customers demands and expectations. The 4P marketing strategy is also known as the SIVA strategy which is translated as the Solution (product), Information (Promotion), Value (Price), and Access (Place) (Ferrell, Hartline, p.39). Product Nikon deals with a range of products that are aimed at maximizing customer satisfaction. The products include imaging products such as the Digital/film cameras, lenses and accessories; precision equipment such as IC/LCD steppers and scanners; sport optics such as the Binoculars, telescopes and laser rangefinders; instrument products such as the Microscopes and measuring instruments; and ophthalmic lenses such as the Single vision and progressive addition lenses. The imaging products are specifically the digital SLR Cameras, Digital compact cameras, speed-lights, software, film scanners, film SLR cameras, and Nikkor lenses. The microscopes include the biological, digital, industrial, stereoscopic and multi-purpose zoom. The precision equipment includes the IC stepper and scanner and the LCD stepper and scanners in different series (Nikon, 2010). The packaging is attractive with different colors and the Nikon brand name on them with each product packed with a user manual so as to enable the user steps of operation. The packaging is also ensured to shock proof to protect the products from any falling or mishandling. A return form is also placed in the packaging that bears the name and address of the company. The company logo is also encrypted in all products. It bears the words handle with care that cautions any person handling them that they are delicate and prone to damage. The customers are also assured of a warranty for every product they buy that is from authorized distributors. Pricing Each product has a specific price and the prices vary in every region and according to the specifications. The price for Digital SLR Cameras is $7,999.95; NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4 is $469.95, AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III is $499.95; AF DC-NIKKOR 105mm f/2D is $1,199.95, and COOLPIX S640 is $219.95 (Nikon, 2010). The LS-9000 Nikon scanner is sold at $2799.99; while SB-400 Speed-light unit is sold at $149.99; SB-600 Speed-light unit is sold at $249.99; and SB-900 Speed-light unit is sold at $349.99 (Nikon, 2010). Compared to the competitors prices Nikons prices are averagely similar in the markets thus leaving the customer to choose the best product that suits them. Promotion This includes the Advertising, Professional Selling, Sales Promotion, and Publicity of the products by the company (Ferrell, Hartline, p.57). Nikon Corporation in June 2003 dissolved the Nikon sales promotion Co. ltd in view of the fact that it was not affecting its mandates to the corporation. Its mandate was shifted to Nikon Corporation business units that would effectively carryout the marketing and advertising. Nikon has also implemented the CSR strategy that includes several promotional strategies which include the education and awareness, surveying and monitoring, preventions of violations, and a consultative reporting system. The education strategy seeks to educate the employees in the corporation to create a favorable workplace environment through this promotion strategy the employees are able to promote the company to the public. The company also conducts awareness surveys that help gauge the products place in the market this helps promotion in laying the right procedure to advertise the products that have low sales. Nikon also promotes the products through print and advertising. It also holds photo exhibitions like the Photokina that helps in showcasing all the recent products by the company. Photo shootouts are also organized where customers are able to try out the new products and know their operations, availability and prices. Billboards are also used to advertise the products so as to reach the customer more efficiently. Taxi branding where taxis are branded with the company logo and products to promote the products is done globally. Nikon has also been involved in supporting sports such as formula one and advertised during the events (Nikon, 2010). Placement (distribution) Nikon is present globally with all its products being traded world over. The market has been segmented into regions that enable ease of distribution of the products to the customers. There are six regions which are the Americas, Europe, Asia, Oceania, Middle East, and Africa (Nikon, 2010). In each region there are authorized distributors of the products where they are then further sub-divided into sub divisions that help penetrate the market effective and reach the customers in time. Conclusion The general life cycle of the products from Nikon starts from the receiving of raw materials, then to the material, component and product manufacture, then to transport, where it is then used by the customer after which it is then recycled or disposed. Nikon has developed a competitive advantage over other companies and has definitely benefited from the effective marketing strategy it has. Work Cited: Armstrong, Michael. Management Processes and Functions, London: CIPD, 1996 Bà ¶hm, Anja. The SWOT Analysis. Boston: GRIN Verlag, 2009 Tarcy, Brian,. Bradford, Robert and Duncan, Peter. Simplified Strategic Planning: A No-Nonsense Guide For Busy People Who Want Results Fast!. New York: Chandler House Press, 2000 Ferrell, Olive C. Hartline, Michael D. Marketing Strategy. Ed.4, New York: Cengage Learning, 2008 Nikon. Nikon Corp, 2010. http://www.nikon.com/ November 27, 2010 Nikon. Product Assessment, Nikon Corp, 2010. http://www.nikon.com/ November 27, 2010 Reynolds, Clyde. Nikon F Book. New York: Focal Press, 1977

Karl Marxs Estranged Labor Essay example -- essays research papers fc

Karl Marx's Estranged Labor In Karl Marx's early writing on "estranged labor" there is a clear and prevailing focus on the plight of the laborer. Marx's writing on estranged labor is an attempt to draw a stark distinction between property owners and workers. In the writing Marx argues that the worker becomes estranged from his labor because he is not the recipient of the product he creates. As a result labor is objectified, that is labor becomes the object of mans existence. As labor is objectified man becomes disillusioned and enslaved. Marx argues that man becomes to be viewed as a commodity worth only the labor he creates and man is further reduced to a subsisting animal void of any capacity of freedom except the will to labor. For Marx this all leads to the emergence of private property, the enemy of the proletariat. In fact Marx's writing on estranged labor is a repudiation of private property- a warning of how private property enslaves the worker. This writing on estranged labor is an obvious point of basis for Marx's Communist Manifesto. The purpose of this paper is to view Marx's concept of alienation (estranged labor) and how it limits freedom. For Marx man's freedom is relinquished or in fact wrested from his true nature once he becomes a laborer. This process is thoroughly explained throughout Estranged Labor. This study will reveal this process and argue it's validity. Appendant to this study on alienation there will be a micro-study which will attempt to ascertain Marx's view of freedom (i.e. positive or negative). The study on alienation in conjunction with the micro-study on Marx's view of freedom will help not only reveal why Marx feels labor limits mans freedom, but it will also identify exactly what kind of freedom is being limited. Karl Marx identifies estranged labor as labor alien to man. Marx explains the condition of estranged labor as the result of man participating in an institution alien to his nature. It is my interpretation that man is alienated from his labor because he is not the reaper of what he sows. Because he is never the recipient of his efforts the laborer lacks identity with what he creates. For Marx then labor is "alien to the worker...[and]...does not belong to his essential being." Marx identifies two expla... ...gative liberty. He states "...[private] property is...the right to enjoy ones fortune and dispose of it as one will; without regard for other men and independently of society." Private property for Marx is the mechanism by which man can be separate from other men and pursue his (negative) liberty. Marx's writings on estranged labor and in The Communist Manifesto are a clear repudiation of private property. What can be deduced then is that Marx does not favor negative liberties. Negative liberties require private property to exist and private property is for Marx the enslaver of the proletariat. With negative freedom eliminated from the discussion we are left with Positive or prescribed freedoms. Positive freedom, as was identified above, is the freedom to pursue specified options. That is, freedom to do certain things. Man is not necessarily given a choice of what these options are, he is simply free to pursue them whatever they may be. Positive freedoms then are the freedoms Marx likely wishes to uphold by denouncing estranged labor.Bibliography Bibliography 1Marx, Karl, The Early Marx, 2Marx, Karl and Engles, Freidrich, The Communist Manifesto, London, England, 1888

Capital Punishment Essay

The world is full of mysterious answers to questions: Why does the sun rise? Is there a higher power somewhere? These questions can be answered one of two ways; either through knowledge or belief. The accuracy of these answers, however, can vary greatly depending on which method of knowing is used. Belief, for example, is the least accurate option of the two. Belief is personal. Different individuals may have different beliefs on the same matter. People tend to have different beliefs depending on their way of thinking, which in turn depends on the person’s upbringing, education, knowledge, etc. Knowledge however is something universal; there are no different views factored into knowledge. It is something that is void of any emotions or personal beliefs. When it comes to capital punishment, the answer for whether or not governments should be allowed to execute criminals is an answer based on belief. Some people may believe that capital punishment is wrong while some may believe that it is just. No one knows for sure whether or not it’s right or wrong to execute criminals. Some faith groups, such as the Roman Catholic Church, oppose the death penalty as not being â€Å"pro-life. Catholic Cardinal McCarrick, Archbishop of Washington, writes â€Å"†¦ the death penalty diminishes all of us, increases disrespect for human life, and offers the tragic illusion that we can teach that killing is wrong by killing. † This quotation is based off of reason. It shows the side of the debate that views executing criminals as wrong. After all, if we kill someone to teach that killing is wrong, doesn’t that make us just as bad? â€Å"If a civilized society cannot say why one man should be executed and another not,† stated Justice Matthew Tobriner, â€Å"it does not rationally, logically take life. Instead, it grossly denies due process of law, inflicting death on the basis of a trial that is capricious, discriminatory and guess-infected. † For example, wrongly convicted, innocent people have received death penalty sentences and were killed by the state. People are accused of crimes they didn’t commit frequently. How can the state be sure of whether or not the person whose life they’re taking is actually doing justice, or just murdering an innocent person? This is based on reason. Arguing for capital punishment, the Clark County, Indiana Prosecuting Attorney writes that â€Å"†¦ there are some defendants who have earned the ultimate punishment our society has to offer by committing murder with aggravating circumstances present. I believe life is sacred. It cheapens the life of an innocent murder victim to say that society has no right to keep the murderer from ever killing again. In my view, society has not only the right, but the duty to act in self defense to protect the innocent. † Some crimes are so horrific that some people think that revenge or retribution is the only option. This reasoning is not based on logic; but rather, it is based on emotions. Therefore, this reason should not be deemed a valid justification. It is commonly believed that the punishment of a crime should equal the crime. This is also known as â€Å"an eye for eye† justice. Therefore using this reason, the appropriate punishment for murder is death. Frank Carrington states, â€Å"is there any way one can tell whether the death penalty deters murders from killing? There is no way one can tell whether the death  penalty deters murderers from killing. The argument goes on that proponents of capital punishments should not have to bear the burden of proving deterrence by a  reasonable doubt. Nor should the abolitionist have to prove deterrence by a reasonable doubt -neither side would be able to anyway. † He also claims common sense supports the inference that if, the threat of the death penalty decreases, the rate of murders increases than it may be true. But  if the threat had increased, the homicide rate may decrease. This statement means that capital punishment may serve as an example to would-be criminals, to deter them from committing murder or terrorist acts. In conclusion, I find the arguments against capital punishment the most convincing. All of the inferences made in the argument against the death penalty have been based on reason or perception. An argument pro death penalty was based on emotion and has convinced me that the death penalty is in large part, a way of getting even. The â€Å"eye for an eye† analogy supports this. Previously, I was for capital punishment, but due to the evidence and the knowledge and not belief, that support the claims, I am against capital punishment. Word Count = 765

The Effect of Dashboards and Scorecards on the Performance of Employees in Hospitals Essays

The Effect of Dashboards and Scorecards on the Performance of Employees in Hospitals Essays The Effect of Dashboards and Scorecards on the Performance of Employees in Hospitals Paper The Effect of Dashboards and Scorecards on the Performance of Employees in Hospitals Paper Like actual dashboards found on automobiles and other transport machines, dashboards for hospital systems are actually designed to measure the performance of employees through noting the procedures that they use to complete certain tasks. It is through this certain system that the application of professional ethics as well as professional performance based from the actions of the employees during certain specific situations. (Pugh, 2005, 11) A hospital dashboard measurement is characterized by its measurement of performance based on seniority leadership that the employees show at work as well as the ability of certain employees to align effort among others and thus increase achievement levels on the part of the entire staff of the healthcare institution that they are working at. The said dashboard for performance management is subdivided into three dimensions which include (A) Organizational performance measure; (B) Strategic measures; and (C) Process and Operating Measures. (Pugh, 2005, 12) These dimensions are positively applied in the operational systems of the healthcare institution so as to imply progress and improvement on the part of the task divisions given to the staff members of the hospital. Through these dimensions, the activities and the performance level of the employees become much aligned as the members of the team become aware of the roles that they play during certain situations of dealing with their patients. (Institute of Medicine, 2001, 3) With the case of St. Joseph Hospital, it could be noted that they used seniority of performance as measure of their employees’ capability of being involved in certain emergency situations. This process has actually helped the administration in the said hospital to handle the need for training new staffs as well as increase competency of the entire hospital in handling the medical needs of their patients since the seniors are the ones leading hospital operations. Obviously, this process had been considered truthfully successful for the said health institution. (Pugh, 2005, 13) Reference: Michael D. Pugh. Dashboards and Scorecards: Tools for Creating Alignment. The Healthcare Quality Book (Ransom, Joshi, Nash, 2005). Institute of Medicine. 2001. Crossing the Quality Chasm: A New Health System for the 21st Century. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press. Kaplan, R.S. and D.P. Norton. 1992. The Balanced Scorecard-Measures that Drive Performance. Harvard business Review. (1996). Boston: HBS Press.

Essay on Motor Learning

Essay on Motor Learning Essay on Motor Learning Motor learning – change resulting from practice in the capability for responding. Skilled performers – kinaesthetic anticipation of what might happen next, timing of responses, limb coordination. Cognitive phase – learning how to do a skill, identify sub-routines in their correct sequence, needs to practice a lot to develop the skill. Associative phase - the performer understands the basics of the skill and is in the process of refining the skill, they experience fewer errors and can detect some of them on their own. Autonomous phase – elite sportsmen and women are usually at this stage, performers can attend higher-order cognitive activities, can take individuals a long time to reach this stage. Linear curve – performance improves with practice. Negatively accelerated curve – successful early but tapered off. Positively accelerated curve – small gains early improvement in later stages. The ‘s’ shape curve – rapid l earning with gradual process. Learning plateau – observable levelling off of the learning curve. Kinaesthetic sense – feel/ movement, muscle memory. Anticipation – predicting what will happen next. Timing of responses – faster and more efficient. Limb coordination – use of hands and fingers; legs and feet. Response to cues – team mates yell at you to get/leave the ball. Rates of learners – some people take a while to learn some skills and some people can learn it really quick. Closed skill – performed in a predictable environment, allows players to plan their movement in advance, player is in control of the skill. Open skill – performed in and unpredictable environment, externally paced, performed in a constantly changing environment. Discrete skill – distinct beginning and end. Serial skills – series and definite beginning and end, combination of discrete skills. Continuous skills – no beginning and end, repetitive. Fine skills – movement of small muscle groups with high precision. Gross skills – opposite to fine skills, large muscle groups, action is less precise. Self-paced - under control of the performer, taking their time. Externally paced – dictated by surrounding environment. Feedback – info you receive about the performance of the skill either during the performance or after the skill has been completed, specific to sub-routines. Practise – mass and distributed practice, whole or part practice, mental and physical practice. Physical – massed-continuous without breaks or rests intervals, distributed-rest intervals, allows to recover, best for beginners, fixed, variable (MDF V). Motor skill – where the physical aspect of a skill is heavily emphasised, practical ability to achieve a predetermined result. Feedback – feedback given to a learner changes between the cognitive and autonomous phase will definitely change b ecause in the cognitive phase the learner will make quite a lot of mistakes and not so much when in the autonomous phase. The feedback will help the learner progress if the learner has specific

History of Jazz Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

History of Jazz - Essay Example Armstrong also began playing on riverboats and brass band parades and spent most of his time listening to older musicians. However, he began his full career with the resignation of Joe Oliver from Kid Orys band and would continue with his musical dreams playing alongside other musical groups like the Tuxedo Brass Band. Therefore, this assignment seeks to discuss Louis Armstrong’s contribution in jazz music as well as the influence he had in the entire American society. Life and career of Louis Armstrong is a transition from New Orleans to Hollywood, television, Carnegie Hall and the tale of is successful musical career also depicts how jazz music evolved in American and the world beyond(Bergreen 10). The manner in which Louis played trumpet brought a revolution to the music world as he would join the list of most famous and favorite entertainers then and even in the modern society. Though 30 years has elapsed since his death, Louis’s work as a vocalist and instrumentalist still continues to influence the America music especially the jazz type. As a black who was working and living in the segregated black society, he used his music to represent civil right struggles and played an important part in changing the then America (Stein 23). In this case, the life and career story of Louis Armstrong depicts a musician who not only changed the genre he was representing but also the civil and political aspect of the society. Throughout the 1920s at his prime, Armstrong performed alongside various musical groups and began bringing changes to jazz musical genre when he introduced the extended solo. Before, his arrival, the arrangement of jazz music was highly orchestrated or, in other words, loosely structured (Gioia 15). In this case, the previous jazz had a Dixieland structure; a musical collection where no musician is allowed soloist vocal for an extended period. Within no

Company Strategy and Structure Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Company Strategy and Structure - Essay Example In a recent report cited by the Wall Street Journal, sales of Macintosh compatible computers to businesses have risen significantly since November. [Berry] By one account, there has been more than a 40% increase from November to January in the Mac-compatible market share among business-oriented personal computer buyers. Bolstering the Mac-compatible position in the business market are the new machines recently released by Apple. The Power Book 3400 is the worlds fastest laptop computer. There is also the new series of Power Macintosh computers, including the 9600, which runs as fast as 233 MHz. Recent surveys indicate that the Mac OS has over 50% of the market for Web authoring and CD-ROM content creation. Apples new line of computers is ideally suited for the demands of power users, such as high-end designers and Web authors who work with graphics, digital movies and sound. In addition to offering new products, Apple continues to revise its own management and structure. In order to become more efficient and nimble, additional corporate changes are necessary. Over the past year, Apple has seen a growth in the overall Mac OS market. The decline in its own sales can be directly attributed to the success of the Macintosh clone makers. Apple can take advantage of the clone makers success by reducing the number of models it produces, focusing its marketing on high-end users and focusing hardware development on better-equipped, higher margin products. Clone makers have become a significant factor in Apples rebirth. By competing for buyers in markets where Apple has had difficulty, clone makers allow Apple to reduce the number of models it manufactures (and its costs) because it no longer needs to "carry" the entire Mac OS market. As Apple reduces its presence in a particular market, clone makers can compete more with Wintel machines than with Apples products. As a result, Apple may choose to raise the licensing fee paid by the clone makers on each unit sold when