Motorcycle Diaries Essay Essay

The movie â€Å"The Motorcycle Diaries† is very interesting in a way that, Ernesto not only takes a journey across Latin America but he also experiences a mental journey. His way of thinking and outlook on life changes drastically and this is illustrated all throughout the movie. He also discovers a great deal about life in Latin America that affects him in a way nothing else has before. Ernesto’s mental journey becomes clearer towards the end of the movie. It shows that he has changed and now has realized he can make a huge difference in many others lives. At first in the movie he and his companion do whatever it takes to rest and eat because at this time all they were concerned about was traveling around America. As more time passes, Ernesto gets incredibly serious and starts to show much concern for the people they meet. An example is when they meet the older gentleman and he asked them to take a look at the lump on his neck. This was when Ernesto told him that it was not just any ordinary lump, but it was indeed a tumor. Ernesto then suggests he go to the hospital, while Ernesto’s friend tells the man it’s nothing just so they can have a place to stay for the night. I believe this was a very bold move for him because it cost them their shelter for the night. By doing this he really demonstrates that he himself is more concerned about others lives then petty things, such as where he will sleep for the night. Although Latin America looks like a peaceful pleasant country, many people are very ill. Ernesto discovers this when he visits the one village. He experiences how truly sick they all are from all the disease. Up until this point he had pitied himself for having asthma, but now he has become thankful that he has good health. You can tell how caring and warm-hearted he has become at this point in the movie. An example of this is when he refuses to wear the gloves because he feels cruel doing so, as if he’d be acting as if they were animals not everyday people, the same as himself. From the day he stepped foot in this village he never treated any of the patients different and they loved being around him. It was amazing because you could just tell how much it meant to them for him to be there. All and all Ernesto learned and discovered a great deal within this film. He  changed much in his life and his attitude toward the world through this one journey. I believe there is one thing he will always take with him from this experience. That one thing is that he learned that he can make a huge difference in the lives of many just by caring enough to do so.

Notes on arrays

To signify absence of information oid fo // function fo does not return a value void *pv; // pointer to object of unknown type enumeration (enum): To represent specific set of values. Named integer constants can be defined as members of an enumeration. enum keyword {ASM, AUTO, BREAK}; keyword key; 2 Derived Data Types Address Types References Pointers Powerful, but difficult to master Simulate pass-by-reference Close relationship with arrays and strings Aggregate Types Arrays and strings Structures and Unions 3Reference is another name (alias) for a variable It is a pointer but a constant one – once declared it cannot be made alias of another variable A reference declaration must have initialization and it can be initialized toa variable, not a literal constant. A variable can have several references (aliases) – all references hold the same address Reference is not a separate variable like a pointer – it does not occupy space in memory 4 ? References All operatio ns supposedly performed on he alias (i. . , the reference) are actually performed on the original variable Example int count = int &cRef = count; Increments count through alias cRef 5 ? References (example) // Reference Types: Example // References must be initialized. #include using std::cout; using std::endl; 7 8 9 int main() intx=3; Creating a reference as an alias to another variable in the function.

Comparison of King Richard III and Looking for Richard Essay

Examinations of Shakespeare’s play ‘King Richard III’ and Pacino’s docu-drama ‘Looking for Richard’ reveals relationships between the texts and their respective audience. The fifteenth century and twentieth century contexts demonstrates the values of each text and enables understanding of how the film enriches the ideas presented in the play. ‘King Richard III’ portrays a hateful, corrupted Richard exploring divine justice and the notion of appearance versus reality in the context of the Elizabethan era. With a time difference of four centuries ‘Looking for Richard’ reflects the Pacino’s quest to understand a Shakespearean text through a personal examination of the same character. This docu-drama reflects the postmodern era’s absence of divine order and the change of conscience. Through the comparative study of these texts our understanding of different contexts and values are illuminated. Shakespeare portrays Richard’s deception through his soliloquies and asides, revealing his multifaceted nature. Richard is shown to use intelligent word play, irony and stichomythia; he is ultimately cast as the Machiavellian character â€Å"determined to play a villain†. Richard blames his appearance for his immoral acts â€Å"deformed, unfinished, sent before my time† and uses it to fulfill his hunger for power. Richard’s duplicity is emphasized when Clarence is sent to the tower. Any sympathy elicited from the audience is undermined by the thick irony in the dialogue. Richard appears to have no idea what is going on and innocently asks â€Å"Brother, good day. What means this armed guard/ That waits upon your grace?† Richard then tries to act like the loving brother â€Å"Brother farewell†¦ this deep disgrace/ Touches me deeper than you can imagine†. The Elizabethan audience is reassured that divine order will be restored and retribut ion will be reaped, Richard will be punished for his deceptive act. ‘Looking for Richard’ reflects the values of its society as Pacino attempts make Shakespeare accessible to a twentieth century audience. The film begins and ends with an intertextual extract from ‘The Tempest’ justifying the ambiguity of the twentieth century â€Å"†¦this insubstantial pageant†¦such stuff that dreams are made on†¦Ã¢â‚¬  reinforcing that life cannot provide us with stability in the search for the truth and  morality as it is endless, unlike the Elizabethan era. Pacino’s portrayal of Richard shows his ability to deceive those who trust him â€Å"he’s in good shape. He can move around. He can maneuver†. He plays the villain, loving brother, resistant king and desperate lover with skill. The fluid editing between rehearsal scenes, the staged performances and the actors’ heated discussions reveal Richard’s ability to construct the truth. Richard’s punishment is not God’s divine r etribution as he is haunted by his conscience. The final scene almost persuades the audience to feel sympathy in his death. Low angle shots reflect his loss of power. A contemporary audience understands that humans are multifaceted and do not condemn his deception as instantaneously as the Shakespearean audience. ‘King Richard III’ depicts Richard’s character through divine order and justice. Richard attempts to usurp authority as king being the catalyst of chaotic events. Richard removes anyone that acts as a barrier, including his own family â€Å"lies well steeled with weighty arguments†. His hunger for power results in his diabolic depiction â€Å"foul devil†, as he attempts to disturb divine order. The text was set in a theocentric society, God will seek retribution to anyone who goes against his will, demonstrated by Shakespeare when Margaret curses Richard for killing her husband and son â€Å"sin, death and hell have their marks set on him†. Richards disruption to moral order caused chaos, therefore divine order had to be restored. Richard had to pay the ultimate price for his sins â€Å"Hie thee to hell for shame†¦ there thy kingdom is† as justification in the Elizabethan era. ‘Looking for Richard’ ignores Richardsâ₠¬â„¢ villainous chaos, instead targeting the audience who live in a world where importance is placed on the individual. This is evident when Pacino states â€Å"A person has an opinion. It’s only an opinion. It’s never a question of right or wrong.† The dialogue demonstrates that theocratic elements are no longer universally accepted. The film juxtaposes twentieth century values with those of the Elizabethan people to show that people are guided only by their own morals. This is shown as Pacino chooses to focus the conversation of Clarence’s murderers on their own individual guilty consciences â€Å"Faith, certain dregs of conscience are here within me†. Pacino chooses to cut out the religious rhetoric to stress that Elizabethan values seem irrelevant to the contemporary audience. Rapid camera movements portray  Richard as a tormented, psychologically unstable man. He becomes haunted by the ghost of his conscience and is punished by his madness rather than his death. ‘Looking for Richard’ proves there is no fear of retribution, only the impact of their immoral behaviour on their identity. In our contemporary context justice is displayed as of individuals own psychological destruction and guilt, rathe r than endorsed by God. The analysis of â€Å"King Richard III† by Shakespeare and â€Å"Looking for Richard† by Al Pacino extends our understanding of the values and contexts of the texts and the attributes they share. Shakespeare’s Elizabethan audience valued religion and God’s restoration of rigid order as Pacino’s twentieth century audience have no decisive spiritual references and live in a world where independence is placed on the individual. The contextual comparison of the texts furthers our understanding of the values portrayed within two largely diverse time periods.

MHE512 Disaster Relief Module 3 SLP Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

MHE512 Disaster Relief Module 3 SLP - Essay Example To provide immediate answer to the basic needs of the victims regardless of the calamity or tragedy that has occurred: it is very important that relief providers know the basic needs and have the proper resources they need to be able to give to the victims of calamity and tragedies. To find the best providers of resources that could assist the relief and recover officials that allow the chance to give provisions that are needed by the victims: where to find the resources to be given for the needs of the victims of calamities and tragedies This is a practical question that is aimed to be answered through this system of relief and recovery process being suggested. It could be noted that through this particular consideration, the relief providers would have a better chance of pursuing the relief services directly without hindrance of having no source for the needed relief goods for distribution. To find a more effective process of servicing the victims of the tragedies and calamities with a more effective chain of command that would involve all the institutions that are enjoined within the process of assisting people who were made vulnerable because of the tragedies and calamities that occurred in their lives. Utilizing the different institutions and organizations present in the society for the benefits of the greater number of people who need help. To create a partnership among institutions that could help towa... Goals: The main goal of this proposal is to set a reasonable process that would be workable for many concerned administrators when it comes to providing aid to the victims of tragedies and calamite as well as other unfortunate events that occur every now and then. To create the said reasonable process, establishing partnerships among institutions that are present in the communities in concern is given practical attention to. 2Likely, the idea is to make every organization concerned in helping people survive the recovery that they need to move on from the different misfortunes that they have experienced in the past because of tragedies and calamities that they have surpassed. Communication: To establish a fine process of communicating between the partners that are supposed to work together for a single cause, the need to find better ways to link the institutions together is essential. It could not be denied that the ample provision of help and guidance for these partnered institutions is indeed a huge consideration to be given proper attention to by the concerned administrators of the system. 3The communication, to be effective, need to be technologically aided with accuracy and guidance which would give chances to the perpetrators of relief operations have a practical sense of urgency once the communication notices reaches them. Command Structure: The success of the entire procedure is dependent on how much the people involved are able to cooperate with each other. With the different institutional partners involved, it is essential that the process of overseeing the relief operations should flow within a practical sense of command. Agreement between the

International Business - Cultural Issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

International Business - Cultural Issues - Essay Example Culture is the mix of behaviors, thoughts, beliefs, symbols, and artifacts that are conveyed to people throughout an organization over time. Culture may include a belief about desired employee conduct. Keep communication channels open. Because an organization requires the cooperation of its members for survival, managers should encourage employee communication of its members for survival, managers should encourage employee communication. Committees, conferences and networks can all lay an important role in effective communication in organizations (Yvonne, 2000, p- 119). "A socially inherited body of sanctions and directives which define (he 'proper' and 'improper' ways of behavior" could help to highlight on one hand the complex environment to which one has to adjust; on the other, being assimilated by the individual, it functions part of the super-ego and conditions his tendency to autonomy." (Yvonne, 2000, p- 87) The important global pressures impacting International business practices in MNCs have grown in number, variety and complexity in recent times- thanks to the changes in information technology, dismantling of tariffs, differentiated labor laws, cultural and language barriers, bargaining practices etc. getting the right people with requisite skills, motivating them to accept the challenges in a foreign locale and extending family support through cultural orientation, language training and education assistance have become truly demanding. Any systematic study of a new geographic market requires a combination of tough mindedness and generosity. The appreciation of another way of life cannot develop when one is defensive about one's own way of life; it is necessary to be secure in one's own convictions and traditions. In additions, generosity is required to appreciate the integrity and value of other ways of life and points of view-to overcome the prejudices that are natural result of the human tendency toward ethnocentricity. When people from other countries like Chinese are haughty, patronizing, or arrogant, home-country ethnocentricity is probably contributing to the problem. Global marketers need to develop an objective standpoint that recognizes diversity and seeks to understand its origins. There are many paths to the same end in life. The successful global marketer knows this and rejoices in life's rich diversity. 4. High and low context cultures In a low-context culture, messages are explicit; word carries most of the information. In a high context culture, less information is contained in the verbal part of the message. Much more information resides in the context of communication, including the background, associations, and basic values of the communicators. In general, high context cultures function with much less legal paperwork than is deemed essential in low context cultures. Japan, Saudi Arabia, and other high context cultures place a great deal of emphasis on a person's value and

Information Management, Knowledge Management and Organizations Essay

Information Management, Knowledge Management and Organizations - Essay Example However, as Blaise Pascal said," We must learn our limits. We are all something, but none of us are everything." Therefore integrating the knowledge base of the entire length and breadth of the organization and the ability to utilize this collective knowledge and make it available becomes important. Knowledge management is a relatively newer concept and has been received with as much enthusiasm as well as skepticism. However, its awareness has been continually increasing. Knowledge management is the complete system of finding knowledge or creating it, storing it and using it appropriately. Although Knowledge Management is often associated with the information and technology industry, it undeniably exists in all kinds of jobs and all occupations. Argyris (1977) defines organizational learning as the process of "detection and correction of errors." In his view, organizations learn through individuals acting as agents for them: "The individuals' learning activities, in turn, are facilitated or inhibited by an ecological system of factors that may be called an organizational learning system" (p. 117). ... A learning organization needs to address a number of issues in order that it meets its targets. It addition to working with its employees as a team as well as individuals, it also needs to behave a complete management buy-in and commitment to the process. This is emphasized in the Knowledge management forum by Thomas Brextel as "Knowledge management is the management of the organization towards the continuous renewal of the organizational knowledge base - this means e.g. creation of supportive organizational structures, facilitation of organizational members, putting IT-instruments with emphasis on teamwork and diffusion of knowledge (as e.g. groupware) into place." Organizational knowledge is the sum of all the knowledge accumulated gradually over time by all its employees, collected and shared. This also means that it depends on personal knowledge as well as inclination to share that knowledge with others. "Characteristics of the work or problem situation determine the ways that information is used and assessed to be helpful (or otherwise)." (Knowing Organization, Chun Wee Choo) This is especially true that when employees are singled out for promotions and incentives based on their knowledge, the urge to share it with others becomes lesser. To counter this management should promote an environment where the employees who share tips that prove to be beneficial to organization are recognized and rewarded. In an article in CIO.com, the author also expresses a similar view that, "Linking KM directly to job performance, creating a safe climate for people to share ideas and recognizing people who contribute to the KM effort (especially those people w hose

Principles of Economics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Principles of Economics - Assignment Example Indeed, this article highlights critical economics points. First, Rampell (2013) appreciates that prices inversely relate to demand, and as such, increase in demand causes an increase in price of commodities. The author supports this with examples of price increase of airline tickets during Christmas, tickets for Major League Baseball during World Series and roses around Valentine’s Day. Even so, the article is more concerned with products that defy this postulate. Specifically, the author questions the decrease in prices of turkey during Thanksgiving when the increased demand dictates otherwise according to the principles of economics. The author cites government data that indicates a significant decrease in prices of turkey every November, the month of Thanksgiving when demand for turkey is high. The article raises two points to explain the observed phenomenon. First, the supply-side forces postulate argues that retailers sell â€Å"loss leaders† in anticipation that the commodities for which they sell at low prices, even at a loss, would attract customers who would then buy other commodities to compensate for the profits forfeited on such products (Rampell, 2013). Secondly, the author cites the demand-side forces argument noting that consumers tend to be more price-sensitive on commodities during peak seasons. 3. In the next three to five paragraphs, apply two of the following economic concepts (supply and demand, market structures, elasticity, and cost of production) to the key points that you highlighted in Question 2. The term demand in itself makes no sense unless qualified by price and the time during which it refers to. This explains the definition of demand by Mankiw (2014) as the quantity of goods that a consumer is willing and able to buy given the price, during a specified period of time. With regards to the case article, the period is

Joseph Conrad and his influence on other writers Research Paper

Joseph Conrad and his influence on other writers - Research Paper Example Most modern literature encompasses adventure tales as compared to romance as was noted in previous works before his time. Joseph Conrad inspired consequent writers such as; Scott Fitzgerald, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, D.H. Lawrence, Joseph Heller, Virginia Woolf and Albert Camus who were inspired by the artistic works from the book ‘Heart of Darkness’. Others in his modern literary movement included Francis Scott Fitzgerald, D.H. Lawrence, Earnest Hemingway, Graham Greene, Malcolm Lowry, Calvino, Joseph Heller, Hunter Thompson and J.M Coetzee. With no argument, Conrad can be referred to the ‘Father of Modern Literature’ as his works were heartfelt and they reflected events that had happened are greatly referenced to and they act as a guide to all poets who would want to venture into the field of modern literature (Modern British Novel, â€Å"Joseph Conrad Biography†). History of Joseph Conrad Joseph Conrad was born on the third of December 1857 where his birth name was Jozef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski. He was of Polish and French descent. As he was growing up, he learned English as a third language and that was when his name changed to Joseph Conrad. With his intrigue in writing, he turned out to be a fluent Polish English writer and master mariner (because he spent so much time in the sea) who had a great impact in modern English literature in the ages of 1850’s. His story writing skills were far much artistic and he expressed himself in a poetical manner. Some of the great books that Conrad wrote include; â€Å"Heart of Darkness† (1899), â€Å"The Secret Agent† (1907, â€Å"The Lagoon† (1896), â€Å"An Outcast of The Islands† (1896), â€Å"The Nigger of the ‘Narcissus’† (1897), â€Å"Youth† (1898), â€Å"Lord Jim† (1900), â€Å"Amy Foster† (1901), â€Å"The End of The Tether† (1902), â€Å"Typhoon†(1902), â€Å"Nostromo† (1904), †Å"The Secret Sharer† (1909), â€Å"A set of Six† (1908), â€Å"The Duel† (1908), â€Å"Under Western Eyes† (1911) and â€Å"Victory† (1915). Since some of his books were inspired from sea life experiences. For example, â€Å"The Nigger of the ‘Narcissus’† (1897) describes the ship Narcissus that got knocked down in the harsh waters, â€Å"Lord Jim† (1900) was inspired from a sailor character out in the sea and the experiences the sailor faced, â€Å"Youth† (1902) and â€Å"Nostromo† (1904) (ReadBooksOnline, â€Å"Work(s) of Joseph Conrad†). Conrad’s best works included â€Å"The Secret Agent† and the short story â€Å"Heart of Darkness†. â€Å"The Secret Agent† was a book that ranked 46th on the list of The Greatest Books Of The 20th Century. The influence of Joseph Conrad on other writers and his subsequent movements Modernism is a representation of what has occurred or wha t will occur and it is based on pure truism. Joseph Conrad falls under the greatest period called the Modernist Period in English Literature. His works were based on a new way of writing that was filled with expression, passion, human dignity, independence, self confidence and responsibility, terrors in the sea and a twist of fiction. For example, some of the works written in this period included writings from the aftermath of the World War 1 in Europe. His works unknowingly influenced writers such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, D.H. Lawrence, Joseph Heller, Virginia Woolf and Albert Camus. â€Å"Heart of Darkness† inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald because he was an American author who specialized in novels, story writing and poet and his literary works were more of adaptive to modern literature. Some of the modernistic books Scott Fitzgerald wrote included, â€Å"The Side of Paradise†, â€Å"The Beautiful and Damned†, â€Å"The great Gatsby†

Student Accomodations in Lesson Planning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Student Accomodations in Lesson Planning - Essay Example This emphasis on creating hopes in students' heads so that they can work to make them into a reality is a contrast to putting all our energy into developing and creating an effective subject-centered lesson plan. Cooperative learning is effective in IEP education because hey help students to communicate and socialize. In contrast to other lesson formats, cooperative learning is based on discussions and group work. The main similarities between these formats are that they set clear objectives and require instructions; they check understanding and have a practical application step. The main difference is that discovery lesson and cooperative learning models require additional equipment and assessment, while a critical thinking model uses evaluation step. It means being totally involved, completely engaged in doing one's schoolwork. It means total attentiveness and participation in the learning activity (Bateman, 2006). 2. The essential elements of IEP are general intelligence, emotional intelligence, academics: health issues and effective communication. Also, each EIP should have clear ejectives and aims, measurable and observable behavior and stipulated assessment criteria. In a standardized lesson format, a critical thinking model can be used as a frame work of the lesson plan. ... del implies sessions in which teachers encourage students to imagine what it would be like to be successful (including how it might be scary in some ways); how they would feel to know the subject well, to get a good grade, to get approval from their parents and teachers. Students as well as athletes need hopes; not just problems, not just the current reality (Irvine et al 2000). Cooperative model can be a part of the lesson required discussions and personal opinion. Students can begin to focus on improving those areas that are particularly retarding their school success, whether it be some character trait, a health issue, self-management skills, self-defeating ways they think, writing skills, and so forth. To do that, a student is going to have to learn to ask for and accept help from the school. And the school and community, from their side, must be prepared to give the help students need. For example, if a student sees that he has a problem with alcohol that is getting in the way, somewhere in his world there has to be people and programs waiting to respond. The general accommodations for students should involve the use of yellow chalk to reduce glare, the teacher should repeat words written on the blackboard, it is better to use only black print handouts, alternative assignments should be proposed to students who cannot follow the lesson plan. A special attention should be paid to starting, lighting, timing (extended time for tests and more breaks), repeat presentations and immediate response, special test preparation. Sorting students by ability, past achievement, or skill, or whatever, narrows the range of diversity in a classroom and enables teachers to gear materials, assignments, and content to the students' capabilities, interests, and styles. Moreover,

Week3 DQ Team Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Week3 DQ Team - Essay Example The clear distinction between the two terms can be understood on the basis of their definitions. A habit, or habituation, is â€Å"becoming accustomed to any behavior or condition, including psychoactive substance use.† In contrast, an addiction is defined as â€Å"Repeated use of a psychoactive substance, to the extent that the user is periodically or chronically intoxicated, shows a compulsion to take the preferred substance, has great difficulty in voluntarily ceasing or modifying substance use, and exhibits determination to obtain psychoactive substance by almost any means† (WHO Lexicon, 2008). Based on the above, we can clearly distinguish between habituation and addiction. Habituation differs from addiction mainly in the absence of physical and psychological dependence, as a desire rather than a compulsion for the substance and the absence of a tendency to progressively increase the dose. A habit is a pattern of behavior which tends to be repetitive and is executed by conscious choice. It is regular, tends to result in beneficial outcomes and usually increases efficiency. On the other hand, an addiction dominates one’s life to the exclusion of all other activities and responsibilities and has a detrimental effect on the individual and society. Withdrawal symptoms characterize an addict’s efforts to stop usage of the substance. Habits and addictions basically differ in the degree of dependence. Unlike habits, addictions include compulsion, craving, increased tolerance for the substance and withdrawal symptoms. A nightcap, which becomes the customary pre-requ isite for a good night’s sleep, is a habit. The need for increasing quantities of alcohol to feel good is an addiction. An allergy is defined as â€Å"abnormal sensitivity to a substance which is normally tolerated and generally considered harmless† (AAAAI Website). The immune system is the body’s defense mechanism against foreign bodies, or antigens, which are protein molecules

Sales Tax in Canada Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Sales Tax in Canada - Term Paper Example There are various types of taxes such as the income tax, sales tax, import tax and export tax but the discussion in this paper will be based on the sales tax and its impact. Sales tax is levied by a city or state on retail prices of items (Kesselman, 2011). This tax is usually imposed by governments and collected at point of sale with the retailer to collecting and passing the tax to the state (Kesselman, 2011). There are three kinds of sales taxes levied in Canada namely the provincial sales tax PST collected by provinces; goods and services tax which is collected by federal government, Lastly, there is the harmonized sales tax (HST) which combines both PST and GST and is levied in various provinces and then shared out to participating provinces (Sherman, 2009). The rate of sales tax levied is based on various factors which include the product and the place they are being shipped; for instance, publications shipped into any Canadian destination are levied a 5 percent GST although th ey are not subjected to PST (Smart, 2011). The costs incurred in shipment and cargo handling expenses are also subjected to sales taxes. This paper will present three products subjected to sales tax in Canada and evaluate who bears the burden from this budgets. Products subject to sales tax in Canada On 1st July 2010, the harmonized sales tax (HST) was adopted which did away with payment of sales taxes to two governmental levels (Smart, 2011). Previously, eight percent sales tax was paid under the PST while 5 percent was levied by the federal government for various products. Despite the harmonization of the sales taxes, products that were previously not subjected to sales tax remained unaffected as the total sales tax become aggregated (Smart, 2011). The products which are never subjected to sales tax include prescription drugs, basic groceries and municipal transits (Roukhkain, 2011). Clothing and footwear are subjected to sales tax in Canada (Chetty, Looney, and Kroft, 2008). Unde r HST, clothing for adults is subjected to 13 percent in Ontario. The aggregate tax rate is equal to the cumulative sales tax levied before July, 2010 where GST was 5 percent and the PST was 8 percent. Clothing for the children is subjected to a 5 percent sales tax as was the case before HST was adopted as they were exempted from 8 percent PST rate (Roukhkain, 2011). Furthermore, footwear for children are subjected to 5 percent sale tax as shoes beyond size six have a 13 percent sales tax levied on them. The tax system on clothing is based on the age group of their users and it is lower for children clothing to ensure that they are cheap and affordable thereby guaranteeing quality life for them (Smart, 2007). Although not all food products and beverages are subjected to sales tax; others have the tax charged (Smart, 2007). Basic groceries such as meat, vegetable, dairy and canned products are not subjected to sales tax and this has been the case even before HST was adopted. However, snack foods for instance chips and pop corn are charged a 13 percent sale tax. In addition, meals sold in restaurants for more than $ 4 have a 13 sales tax levied. Similarly, alcoholic drinks are also subjected to 13 percent sale tax. These products have a tax levied on them given that they are considered as luxuries and therefore a person enjoying them is well off in the society (Duff, 2003). On the other hand, no tax is levied on basic groceries as they are usually needed for maintenance of life and if sales tax is levied on products in this category, they would become expensive and unaffordable for the poor (Duff, 2003). Motor vehicles and their spare parts are the other products

Exploring the geological history Essay Example for Free

Exploring the geological history Essay Firstly we will explore the importance of the site of the town. Because St. Aubins has a town on the sea, it grew up on sites close to a natural harbour, which afforded shelter to the vessels that carried the seaborne trade, upon which the existence of the town depended. St. Aubin is a town of this last class; a glance at a map of Jersey will show that it and Gorey are the only accessible natural harbours which are completely sheltered from the strong westerly winds. St. Aubins is sheltered from the sea on all sides except from the South-East to South. It is widely believed that St. Aubins was once the capital of Jersey; but this can not be true because from the earliest times the Royal Court and the States have met in St. Helier. Also St. Aubin had no church until the 18th Century, and it would be very weird if the capital was left churchless.  Small vessels of the time, securely mooredcould lie safely in all weathers. The want of depth of water, so detrimental to our town in these days, mattered then, when vessels where very small, and when men where not in such a hurry as they are now, and did not mind waiting patiently for a high tide. This naturally sheltered harbour must have been a resort for fisherman from the earliest time when our island was cut off from the continent. There can be no doubt that St. Aubins is the best natural port in the Island.  The salt and dried cod they brought home found a market in the Roman Catholic countries, where there was an especially large demand during Lent. The ships that carried the fish to these countries brought back cargoes of foreign produce, which in turn was distributed in Northern Europe in exchange for timber for ship-building, hemp for cordage, canvas for sales, pitch and other goods. So a lucrative trade grew up, and the town increased in wealth and importance. St. Helier too, though it had little trade or shiping, seems to have been slightly more populous than St. Aubins, even in its great days.  The two towns in fact lived on quite dissimilar lines, the townsmen of St. Helier lived upon the Court, with its lawyers and functionaries, and upon the country people who came into market and to do there business, while the inhabitants of St. Aubins lived upon there overseas trade, and especially upon the Newfoundland fishery. After this time the state of St. Aubin increased slowly but steadily for about one hundred years. Then the ship owners found it very profitable on account of the long wars with France, to fit out and arm vessels as privateers, and the profits earned where so high that this kind of trade grew rapidly until St. Aubins became the chief privateering port in the kingdom. The privateers were fast vessels, heavily armed with guns, and manned with large crews, needed both to work the ships and guns. The captains each carried a Royal Commission called a letter of marque authorising the capture of the ships and goods of the French. The letter of marque was an important document, as it was all that stood between the whole crew hanged as pirates if taken by an enemy man-of-war. No wages were paid to any of the hands but each received his share of the prizes taken.  In the early years of the last century, St. Aubins reached its high point of importance, but then began to fall off owing to the competition of the new port of St. Helier, which was rapidly increasing its harbour accommodation. Of the two largest St. Aubins merchants, the house of Robin moved to St. Helier, while the Janvrins ceased business. This was a serious blow to St. Aubins, so that by about 1850 its shipping had dwindled to small figures, while St. Heliers had increased until it was the sixth port of the whole British Empire. The peace after the Battle of Waterloo helped this result, as privateers became useless and the large St. Aubins capital sunk in them was so great extent lost.  An attempt to make this port for granite export failed, though for a time, the export of gravel brought many ships back to the port. The coming of the railway was a great event. A company formed in 1846 accomplished nothing. A new company in 1861 met with many difficulties; but at last the track was laid. In 1870, the first train was greeted with salvo cannon, and the dean read an eloquent prayer. Two hundred guests lunched in a marquee in the Noirmont grounds. And trains ran continually to bring the while Island to the fete and the fireworks. In 1899, this line was extended to Corbiere. But the advent of the motor bus eventually killed the trains, and in1935 they ceased running. Later, the four-mile track from St. Aubin to La Corbiere was transformed into one of the pleasantest walks on the Island. The Germans relayed the line when making their fortifications; but they have now been removed. The Chief legacy the Germans left to St. Aubin is the immense tunnel which they blasted into the side of the hill to hold their reserve ammunition.  On the 20th October 1941 Hitler declared that the Channel Islands would become an impregnable fortress. Thousands of foreign workers, mostly Spanish, French, Polish and Russian were being poured into the Island to assist in the building of bunkers, gun emplacements, tunnels and sea walls. They needed sand, granite chippings, cement, water and, of course, reinforcing metal. Transport of the first two presented a considerable problem and was largely responsible for the building of the railways. The metre gauge line from St. Helier to St. Aubin and Corbiere can be said to have started opposite commercial buildings, within a stones throw of the former J.R. T Weighbridge terminus. From West Park to St. Aubins tunnel, the roadbed of the former J.R. T was more or less followed. The line was single throughout except for an occasional crossing loop. A blast wall had already been built at the eastern end of the old J.R. T tunnel at St. Aubin as a protection from the extensive galleries which were being excavated. The bore of the tunnel itself had been greatly increased and the galleries driven through solid rock, the area being second only to that of the much better known underground hospital, to which rather surprisingly no connecting railway was laid.

Impact of Competition on Bank Performance

Impact of Competition on Bank Performance INTRODUCTION This study focuses on a research set forth to examine the linkage of competitive obsession and/or excessive competitiveness to financial impacts (credit boom/crunch) on the banking industry. Organisations concern for the survival of business at all costs has transformed into a strong credence that they can control and dominate human, physical, natural and intangible resources, thereby direct the business world now and in future. This has induced an underestimation of some immeasurable and unfathomable trends in business. Now the business world is being battered with harsh economic and financial struggle. Hence Ezer and Demetis (2007:57) states: â€Å"Our obsession with control has become part of our validation as a species.† At this time all countries and a huge number of firms has been impinged on, by recent the credit crunch. 1.1 Background There are huge reasons for the competitive activities of countries, banks and Multinational Enterprises (MNEs). Some of these reasons are to maximise wealth and minimise cost. In the 1970s the banks were not highly driven by competitive force (Black and Strahan, 2002). Countries and Multinational Enterprises take advantage globalisation and free trade. However, the banking industry today has become quite competitive and involved in subprime lending. The increase in competition among banks led to less proficient screening aptitude and credits granted to less worthy customers (Rajan, 2008). In addition, MNEs engage in drastic activities across nations termed as an abuse of free trade. The recent economic situation emerges quite troublesome for everyone. Credit concerns are now crucial and are imperative in ensuring successes in international business. This requires the aid of banks as MNEs are in battle with an unpleasant financial crisis. Nevertheless, would these banks who are also hit by the credit struggle, save themselves, talk more of aiding the MNEs or any other business and/or customers. The financial market crisis began early in 2007 and has resulted to losses in the market and loss of confidence in financial institutions across the globe (World Economic Forum, 2008).The causes of the credit crunch are traced to a number of identified causes (Johnson and Kwak, 2009). To mention a few are subprime investments, government neglect of banking activities, and the abuse of free trade, mainly but not wholly originating from the United States. Some of these causes are still in repetition dated back to 1966 and are yet to be eradicated. Financial crisis originating in the 1960s has been re-occurring in the 70s, 80s and of present, hence, it is not a novel issue. What is yet to be known is why the credit crunch keep re-occurring from similar causes, and the possible existence of a common element among these ‘causes which is unseen or rather covered in a veil, that could make or break the achievement of a Companys objective. This common element could be termed extreme competitiveness or competitive obsession. It is unknown if competitive obsession could have contributed to the credit crunch. A study and understanding of this problem could proffer solutions and thus, possibly promote international business and financial integrity on a global scale. 1.2 Research Purpose This research is not focused on identifying and putting blames on various organisations or their activitities that might have caused the credit crunch. The aim of this study is to identify the relationship between competitiveness- its obsession and the credit crunch, and to determine whether this competitive obsession is found within the activities of the organisations that might have caused the credit crunch. 1.3 Research Questions The questions to be researched will be principally concentrated on the grounds/motivations in which business, banks and regulators take drastic decisions and engage in dangerous activities that might have led to the credit crunch. The answers to find out will thus be: What this ground/motivation is? What is the existence of this ground/motivation among different institutions? What the relationship of this ground/motivation could have to the credit crunch? 1.4 Implication of the Dissertation This study develops a new theoretical model, which incorporates two â€Å"issues† which can be found today (competitive obsession and the credit crunch) in to the notion of global economic challenges in respect to nations and MNEs. The practical significance of this study involves proffering some guiding principle/course of action for globally competitive firms in the course of competitive/strategic decisions that is accountable. How firms react to the pressures of international competition and the chances of taking comparative advantage on the macro level has been deemed importantly stressed by Herrmann (2008), describing his research as only the beginning of a broader analysis. This study tends to continue from Herrmanns research, but relating it to the credit crunch. There are obviously exclusions in the literature, but the association of competitiveness and the credit crunch are very hardly studied in some intensity. This study tries to make the association of these two is sues overt. 1.5 The Structure of the Study 2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introduction Competitiveness and the credit crunch are two different broad issues, which however are not new in the literature. Firms aspire to have a competitive advantage/edge to survive in the global market; nevertheless, the extreme cases of this competitiveness that could be very fruitful or drastic are not put in to so much consideration. Furthermore, the extreme cases of credit facility (over or under extending), might or might not have presented a favourable business condition. 2.2 Review of Studies An attempt to review the whole issues on competitiveness and the credit crunch would be a task of great difficulty, size and strength. Both subjects have been in academic and organisational practice for a very long time. Hence, the re-evaluation of literature will highly pinpoint a survey as well as case research done. Given huge amount of data and research carried out through the years, some important studies have been omitted. Apologies are made for such omissions while, other studies which might be perceived as of less significance, are been utilised. 2.3 Sections of Review There are large amounts of literature works significant to this study, however, this chapter will focus on: Background : History, Present Future Competitiveness and the Credit Crunch Defined Competitive Obsession- Favourable or Unfavourable National and firm competitiveness [Porters Diamond] Competition in the Banking Industry Government/country competitiveness 2.4 Background: History, Present and the Future The early years of this millennium has faced corporations with credit problems connected with the boom in the stock market. As this financial catastrophe receded, came the rise and boom of the housing sector, which subsequently transformed in to the unavoidable credit crunch (Cooper, 2008). Financial crises has always come and gone. the early crisis of 1990 affecting countries like Mexico, Russia, Norway and Sweden and the Asian crisis of 1997 involving countries like South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Hong Kong (Allen and Gale; 2007, Nesvetailova, 2007). The causes of these financial crises and/or credit crunch were sought after and found (Johnson and Kwak, 2009). Some of these causes were generic to some Nations while others were particular to a Nation. It is found common among nations that blames were laid on the inconsistent macroeconomic policies of government and financial institutions (Allen and Gale; 2007, Nesvetailova, 2007; Turner, 2008; Cooper, 2008). Some particular causes found in the nations like the United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) are the sub-prime lending and housing boom (Rajan, 2008), the abuse of free trade by the promoters of free trade (Turner, 2008), and corruption in nations like Indonesia (Allen and Gale; 2007). Can the misdeeds of government and financial institutions be associated to competitiveness? Porter (1998) portrays that competitive advantage of nations convey new government and business functions for the attainment of competitiveness and success. Constantly, government is ineffectual in whatever it gets to do as she constantly fall short in her industrial policies and in tackling the issues of competitive lead (OShaughnessy, 1996). Hartungi (2006), stress the competitive impacts of globalisation among nations, in the flow of labour and capital. Thus, government of nations, especially the developing ones are being threatened by competition from other nations. In consequence, these governments deregulate and hence make weak their policies for fear of alien investors relocating their businesses to another nation (Hartungi 2006; Buiter, 2007). Turner (2008) on the other hand echoes the abuse of free trade as firms utilise the benefits of free trade by carrying their dealings across var ious nations, with the aim to maximise their profit at the least cost. Thus, while (Hartungi; Buiter) accuses the government, Turner accuses the Multinational firms. Notwithstanding, both government and Firms actions are rational justified to be a move to beat competition. The future of the economy, given this recent credit crunch is still bleak and insecure. There are no quick or magic solutions to this credit troubles. Most banks still hold back on granting credit and economic endeavors are still seriously threatened and extremely bad (Lorenzen, 2009). 2.5 Competitiveness and the Credit Crunch Defined Competitiveness, which is found at the heart of business firms and nations, has always been an inevitable desire, as firms and nations struggle for survival and to outperform one another by gaining a competitive edge, comparative/absolute advantage. Given different circumstances and/or surroundings, competitiveness itself, has defined and implied differently by academic scholars/ authors. Since the theories of Adam Smith in the 1770s and Ricardo in the early 1960s, the models of Porter (1980) and Krugman (1994) prior the other current ones, accentuated by Cao (2008) and Chikà ¡n (2008) national and firm competitiveness, given the global competitive force is still obsessive. The rationale behind competitiveness stays the same; changes are found to exist on strategies engaged to accomplish it, the means of maintaining competitiveness in a rapid and constant change of business environ and processes. In the literature, competitiveness has been widely defined. The Office of Competition and Economic Analysis (OCEA) (2009) echo, â€Å"Competitiveness means different things to different people. To an economist, it may mean how well a country is performing compared to other economies, as embodied in the standard of living and changes in national productivity. To a policy maker, it may mean how a new regulation changes the ability of affected businesses to compete. To a business owner, it may mean changes in profitability as reflected in market share for its goods and services in a low-cost market place.† Hence there are no specific or clear definition of competitiveness could be generally satisfactory, rather they are given different interpretations to best match ones requirements or task (Aiginger, 2006; Ketels, 2006; Siggel, 2006; OCEA, 2009). Garelli (2006: 3), from an economic and management perspective defines competitiveness as â€Å"a field in economics that reconciles and integrates several concepts and theories from economics and management into a series of guiding principles driving the prosperity of a nation or an enterprise.† With regard to the credit crunch, which is the second concern, finance and credit availability has always been the blood of every enterprise that ensures the running of its business operations. The credit crunch or credit crises, financial squeeze, or financial crises have been termed differently by different nations, firms, scholars and institutions. Some authors further use these terms sequentially. Hence, for example, the credit crunch might have resulted from a capital crunch or the financial crises have led to a recession. However, the implied meaning remains the same. This financial instability has long existed, as well as economic theories such as the efficient market theories (EMT), Keyness and the Minskyan theories and hypothesis. Watanabe (2007:642) defines the credit crunch as â€Å"the reduction in credit supply available to borrowers, particularly bank lending supply, for some lender specific reasons.† Watanabe further describes a difference between financial crisis and the credit crunch as thus: the financial crisis involving banks breakdown, financial mismanagement and volatility, while the credit crunch involving a incidental hindrance of banks lending activities, arising from capital shortage. Similarly, Ryder (2009:76) states, â€Å"The uncertainty in the global financial markets has led to a dramatic reduction in the availability of affordable credit, or credit crunch.† 2.6 Competitive Obsession- Favourable or Unfavourable The history of excessive competition is traced to the course of economic development and evolution of industrial formation in different countries in the globe, arising from changes in demand leading to a poor economic cycle or even recessions (Cao, 2008). One of the strong criticisms of competitive obsession is that of Krugman (1994) and (Cao, 2008) on excessive competition. Krugman bases his arguments on three points- (1) that apprehensions on competitiveness, are as an empirical issue, baseless; (2) that the definition of economic setback as one of international competition is nevertheless striking to lots of people. Finally, that obsession with competitiveness is incorrect, dangerous, distorting domestic policies and a threat to the international economic system. Hence, thinking competitively will one-way or the other lead to bad policy making. Both Krugman and Cao, stress the misinformed and common thinking in economic theory that intensification of competition can improve economic and social welfare. Aiginger (2006) in his competitiveness defined stresses its non-exclusion of strategies to harm neighbouring countries. Thus, assumptions have been made about obsession being a negative term (Dance, 2003). On the other hand, excessive/obsessive competitiveness has been identified to improve welfare (productivity and social) in an economy, as well as the possibility of positive externalities and spillovers (Brahm, 1995; Aiginger, 2006). Norcia and Flener (2008) in the retail experience, suggests that a means to not just survive but excel in the recent financial crisis is to become more obsessed, with the customer experience for example. Obsession with customer experience is further identified as Mr Philip Green, the owner of Bhs, achieved a historical largest profit for the company, by being obsessed with customer value, price, quality and market (Mazur, 2002). Identifying competitive obsession as good however, is dependent on it being properly focused (Dance, 2003). This research however, neither supports nor opposes the impact or effects of competitive obsession on firms as well as on the economy, but tries to find out if competitiveness and its obsession might have resulted to the recent credit crunch. 2.7 National and Firm Competitiveness [Porters Diamond] Chikà ¡n (2008: 24-25) presents the definition of both firm and national competitiveness: â€Å"Firm competitiveness is a capability of a firm to sustainably fulfil its double purpose: meeting customer requirements at a profit. This capability is realised through offering on the market goods and services which customers value higher than those offered by competitors.† And â€Å"National competitiveness is a capability of a national economy to operate ensuring an increasing welfare of its citizens at its factor productivity sustainably growing. This capability is realised through maintaining an environment for its companies and other institutions to create, utilize and sell goods and services meeting the requirements of global competition and changing social norms.† Chikà ¡n further stresses the existence of a structural homogeneity with the two definitions, as both are described as capabilities, sharing similar root in economic and social thinking, involving strategic governance and the thought of sustainability. Thus, Garelli (2006) stipulates that firms play their main role of achieving economic benefit, while nations provide the necessary framework to maximise the economic benefit, hence their fate is entangled and cannot be managed singly. The interconnection of competitiveness at national and firm level has been presented by Porters (1990) diamond framework. As concerns gaining sustainable advantage, Porter (1998:71) throws the question himself â€Å"which firms from which nations will reap them† Porters model is useful to analyse competitiveness and its various factors (Garelli, 2006; Chikà ¡n, 2008), thus, in this literature it will be used to analyse the banking industry. The different components of the diamond theory are used to summarise the activities of banks at national and firm level: Factor conditions: these are factors of production as well as infrastructure. Innovation and efficiency via technology are inputs for banks competitiveness (Berger and Mester, 2001; Black and Strahan, 2002; Balgheim, 2007). Demand conditions: customers are increasingly becoming more demanding of banks and less loyal (Balgheim, 2007). On the micro level, mainly households and businesses take on banking dealings, such as deposits, loans and other financial services (Goddard and Wilson, 2009). On the other hand, household in some countries avoid placing their savings in financial institutions and rather buy physical goods (Barth et al, 2006). Related and supported industries: this factor takes account of cluster theory, which endorses firms concentration. The banking systems are becoming more concentrated, and the correlation of this concentration and competition is becoming vague (Carbo et al., 2009). Firms strategy, structure, and rivalry: these are managerial actions and strategy in addition to domestic rivalry. as bankers detect a rival struggle to win in the inter-bank lending competition, they assume firms to show more potential than they had reasoned (Ogura, 2006) Government: is another factor considered to determine competitiveness based on its influence on social norms and macroeconomic policy (Ketels, 2006; Chikà ¡n, 2008). However, Michael Porter disbelieves government to be a fifth determinant of competitiveness (Garelli, 2006). Davies and Ellis (2000) summarised some of the limitations of Porters model- to involve omissions of object of analysis, that productivity at national level is confused with industry level success; confusion of trade factors with respect to comparative advantage; flaws in methodology and mode of reasoning; and a refutation of the assertions of the competitive advantage of nations. 2.8 Competition in the Banking Industry Competitiveness cannot extricate itself from the conception and veracity of competition (Herciu and Ogrean, 2008). Goddard and Wilson (2009) describes banking competition as vital because a failure in the market or an anti-competitive behaviour by banks could have extreme consequences on the productive effectiveness, the welfare of the consumer and the growth of the economy. This explains further the development of competition in banking to be a highly relevant exercise paving way for good policies that could effectively regulate and supervise the banking and financial services sector (Goddard and Wilson 2009; Carbà ³ et al., 2009). At the 1970s, there were little or no competitive strains on banks, favourable government ruling and strong barriers of entry into the industry (Berger and Mester, 2001; Black and Strahan, 2002). Nonetheless, by the early 1980s, government rulings no more favoured the industry, technology and policy changes reduced the barrier entry, and competitive strains were on the increase (Berger and Mester, 2001; Black and Strahan, 2002). The increase in competition has a two effect as depicted by (Black and Strahan, 2002)-limiting the credit accessibility to new and small businesses, while also increasing its credit accessibility to big firms that are credit worthy. In recent times, competition has become highly on the increase, banks loosen their creditworthiness assessment in sub-prime lending and non-worthy customers get access to credit (Marquez 2002; Ogura, 2006; Rajan, 2008). The consequence of this is of three ways- reducing the impact of observational learning; reducing the credit risk engaged by every bank, while on the other hand; increasing the total risk engaged by the whole banking industry (Ogura, 2006). 2.9 Government/country competitiveness Competitiveness is a crosscutting issue that is influenced by the decisions of many different government agencies and is subject to a strategic goal for foreign direct investment (FDI) attraction (Ketels, 2006). Siggel (2006); Herciu and Ogrean (2008) presents a view of a country competitiveness arising from the harbouring of internationally competitive firms, industries, as well as government policies and regulations. The central or apex bank of a country is an agent of government, thus, understanding the macro/micro level competitiveness and its inter-linkages to the credit squeeze would require a study of internationally competitive banks and the central bank. 3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3.1 Macro Economic competitiveness- methods suggested by Authors National competitiveness has been measured with indicators such as business competitiveness index of the world economic forum (WEF) (Ketels, 2006; Herciu and Ogrean, 2008; Chikà ¡n, 2008). The world economic forum (WEF) which engages its competitive analysis on global competitive index (GCI), sets out 12 determinants/ and or pillars of competitiveness – Institutions, Infrastructure, Macroeconomic Stability, Health and Primary Education, Higher education and training, Goods market efficiency, Labour market efficiency, Financial market sophistication, Technological readiness, Market size, Business sophistication, and Innovation. 3.2 Firm Level – Competition in Banking- methods suggested by Authors The measure of competition in the banking industry is significantly subject to barriers on entry, internationally and at home (Barth et al, 2006). They stress- entry requirements and restrictions of foreign entry/ownership of domestic banks as two of the variables that could be used to qualitatively confine the degree to which competition in the banking sector is controlled. Nevertheless, some researchers [(Goddard and Wilson, 2007; 2009; Carbà ³ et al., 2009)] draw inference from the observations of firms behaviour derived from theoretical models. Furthermore, the measurement of competitiveness differs broadly in terms of definition, scope, drivers and geographical location (Ketels, 2006). Irrespective of the measures that are put in use, the important issue is ensuring that these different measures make similar suppositions about competitive behaviour (Carbà ³ et al., 2009). Various studies and research has been engaged to understand the credit crunch on a macroeconomic level and on the financial aspects of firm Kang and Sawada (2008). However, the researchers environment and sense of direction in identifying and resolving problems, as well as the interested organisation and society subscribing to it, determines his/her research process or methodology (Ghuari and Gronhaug, 2005). 3.3 Adopted Methods for this Study The main purpose of this present study is to examine the interrelationships of extreme competitiveness among firms and the financial impacts. This will be evaluated on a macro and micro level. The intended methodology will differ as well as emanate from the methodology utilised by the above reviewed researchers in a number of ways: On the macro level, the interrelationships of firms and financial institutions will be evaluated by drawing form secondary data (GCI published by the WEF for 2008/09). For this study, however, the interrelationships will be evaluated utilising only two (2) – Institutions and Financial market sophistication, of the twelve determinants of competitiveness, rather than the combination of all the 12 determinants of competitiveness. A collection of primary data via questionnaire: this questionnaire is intended not just to ascertain or measure competition on the bank firm level competition but going further to evaluate how this competition are driven by business factors such as changes in policy and business strategies. To support the data collected via questionnaire will engage in an interview to give room for some of the top bank personnel to justify and give opinions on the issue of competitiveness and the credit crunch. 3.4 TRIANGULATION This research will triangulate its primary and secondary data collection method qualitatively and quantitatively. This approach will be important when considering the reliability and validity of data, and in trying to find similarities and differences existent in these different sources of data. Thus, the result of one research strategy are cross checked against the result of another research strategy (Bryman and Bell, 2007; Saunders et al, 2007). Thus, the methodology utilised for this research will draw data qualitatively and quantitatively. Quantitative as it will engage in statistical measure and manipulations and qualitative as it will also engage in interviews and survey reports. 3.5 FIRMS AND FINANCIALINSTITUTIONS – A SECONDARY APPROACH The secondary approach utilised for the purpose of this research will draw data from the global competitive report of the world economic forum (WEF), as well as textbooks, articles and journals by electronic and manual means. Drawing data from secondary sources provides a channel as to the essential research work that needs to be carried out, as well as sufficient background information to ensure a direction for research (Cooper and Schindler, 2008). The GCI prepared by the WEF, derives its data from the executive opinion survey (EOS) as well as from other globally recognised data sources such as the International monetary fund (IMF), organisation for economic co-operation and development (OECD) and national sources. Institutions as described by the WEF, comprises the interaction of individuals, firms and governments to create wealth and income in the economy, thus, having a potent connection on development and competitiveness. Financial sophistication on the other hand, emphasises a thorough review of risk ensuring an appropriate creative channelling of resources use. In order to emphasise the connection and link of Institutions and Financial market sophistication, we adopt the correlation index calculation. A way of measuring the relative strength of correlation between two variables is done through a correlation coefficient (r) (Francis, 2004). Hence the product moment correlation coefficient formula: r = n∑xy- ∑x∑y √({n∑x^2 )- à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬â€œ(∑x)à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬â€^(2 )} {n∑y^(2 )- (∑y)^(2 )} Where r = product moment coefficient formula and is a number which lies between +1 and – 1 When r is far from zero (closer to +1 or – 1), there is a strong correlation When r is close to zero, there is a large dispersion and variables uncorrelated r= 0 signifies zero correlation r= 1 signifies strong/direct connection between variables. r= – 1 signifies strong/inverted connection between variables. Where x and y = variables to be measured, And n = number of (x, y) variables 3.6 Test of Robustness The essence of the robustness test is to check the stability of findings from secondary analysis done above, in the sense of whether smaller or larger deviations could prejudice performance of the model or data findings to a large extent. Thus, the existence of gross errors in a small fraction of observation is regarded as a small deviation, the main aim of robust measures being to preserve against errors (Huber and Ronchetti, 2009) Using a dataset of over 100 countries surveyed by the world economic forum, variables on a selected number of countries are drawn. To identify a relationship between competitiveness and the credit crunch (based on two pillars afore mentioned), this research uses the â€Å"robustness/ruggedness approach†, which has been effectual in Baxter and Kouparitsas (2004) in analysing its datasets of over 100 countries. Using this approach, a variable is identified to be a robust determinant of another vis-à  -vis the recent credit crunch, if the correlation coefficient of both variables is far from zero (0). 3.7 Secondary sample collection The systematic sampling method has been selected to take in to account a sample of 15 countries, which will be used for the measurement of connection between variables. This method of sampling has been found to create ease of use, especially where there is an inexistence of a sampling frame. The procedure of the sample systematically selected is as follows: A hundred and thirty- four (134) economies have been covered in the 2008-2009, global competitiveness report by the world economic forum (WEF). Thus sampling 15 countries will be a selection of every 134/15 (8.93th) country. If every eighth (8th) country is selected, 8 x 15= 120, so the last 14 countries will certainly not be selected. On the other hand, if every ninth (9th) country is selected, 9 x 15= 135, definitely the final country selected does not subsist(see appendix 2). One of the disadvantages of systematic sampling is that the sampling technique is not strictly random, since the selection of a random starting point would mean all subjects are pre-determined (Francis, 2004) However, for the sake of the study 8.93th will be approximated to 9th, as it is more free of bias compared to selecting every 8th country. The countries selected are shown in the table (1). Table 1 Column1 S/N Country Country Rank/no Random Starting Point 1 Japan 9 2 Australia 18 3 Saudi Arabia 27 4 Tunisia 36 5 South Africa 45 6 Latvia 54 7 Turkey 63 8 Ukraine 72 9 Egypt 81 10 Georgia 90 11 Algeria 99 12 Albania 108 13 Mali 117 14 Nepal 126 15 135 Source: reproduced from the global competitive report (2008-2009) 3.8 Primary Data Collection The purpose of the research is to identify the existence of competitive obsession or excessive competitiveness particularly on the actions and reactions of banks and the government on a macro and micro level interrelationship. To draw a wide range of data on competition among these institutions, the quantitative and qualitative approach is engaged. 3.9 Quantitative research: the questionnaire This research will use questionnaire administered on bank staffs to collect data for quantitative analysis. This aspect of research will engage its analysis univariately in frequency tables, diagrams and percentage of variables, using the Microsoft excel. Subsequent on that, the data findings will be endorsed with that of the qualitative and secondary data. The questionnaire is purposeful on the views of bank staffs relative to competitive actions that might have contributed to the credit crunch. The questions posed will therefore indirectly address the three (3) key research questions, then similarities and differences in answers triangulated with other research methods to be utilised in the

Diabetes Mellitus and Hypoglycemia

Diabetes Mellitus and Hypoglycemia Disease classification Diabetes Mellitus is a group of metabolic diseases, diabetes mellitus happen when body does not capable to use insulin efficiently or the insulin is not produce more enough in a person blood. According to Kowalczyk N (2013), this syndrome is related with chronic hyperglycemia in combination with glucose intolerance and alterations in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. There is certain test to indicate the presence of this syndrome. Usually patient undergo blood glucose levels test, before the patient take this test, they need to fast 12.00 mid night, the normal blood glucose levels range from 70 to 120 mg/dL, but if the blood glucose levels is greater than 126 mg/dL it is show that patient might have Diabetes Mellitus syndrome. According to Kishore,P (2013), Pancreas released a hormone called Insulin which controls the amount of glucose in the blood. The pancreas is stimulated by glucose in the bloodstream. Insulin allows glucose to move from the blood into the cells. Inside the cells glucose can transformed to energy, which is used instantly or the glucose is stored as fat glycogen until it is required. Insulin production is related with the levels of glucose, when the glucose in blood is high the insulin production increases, once the levels of glucose in the blood come back to normal, insulin production will decreases, normal blood glucose levels for healthy people is about 70 to 120 miligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Symptoms and complications of diabetes happen when the body does not generate enough insulin to move the glucose into the cells or if the cells stop responding normally to insulin, the consequential high levels of glucose in the blood and the insufficient amount of glucose in the cells together produce the symptoms and complications of diabetes. There were three types of diabetes mellitus, Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational Diabetes Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 Diabetes mellitus type 1 is a genetic disorder and can be classify as an autoimmune disease, this disease also know as juvenile diabetes or insulin dependent diabetes, according to Kowalczyk N (2013) diabetes mellitus type 1 is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, these young individuas produce little to no insulin because of an autoimmune disease of the pancreatic B cells and are insulin dependent from a young age. Type 1 diabetes accounts for 5 to 10 percent of cases of diabetes worldwide which is stated by The Health on the Net (HON) (2014). Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 Diabetes mellitus type 2 is categorized as insulin resistant diabetes with an insufficient secretion of insulin. Type 2 dibetes mellitus is more common than type 1 and the risk of developing this type increases with age, especially after the age of 40 years. It is also more prevalent in women than in men which are stated by Kowalczyk N (2013). According to Wisse B (2014) type 2 diabetes happen when insulin is not been respond correctly by fat, liver and muscle cells, this is called insulin resistance, therefore blood sugar or glucose does not get into these cells to be stored for energy. When sugar cannot go into cells, a high level of sugar builds up in the blood. This is called hyperglycemia Gestational Diabetes This type affects females during pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is caused when insulin receptors do not function properly, and their bodies are unable to produce enough insulin to transport all of the glucose into their cells, resulting in increasingly rising levels of glucose. Undiagnosed or uncontrolled gestational diabetes can elevate the risk of problems during childbirth. The baby may be bigger than he/she should be. Disease process Etiology Generally the cause of type 1 diabetes mellitus is unknown. A number of descriptive theories have been put forward, and the cause may be one or more. One of the causes is autoimmune disease. This is a condition that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue, an infection causes the body to mistakenly attack the cells in the pancreas that make insulin in which destruction or damaging of the beta cells, beta cells is special cells that produced insulin hormone in the pancreas. According to Wisse B (2014) Insulin is needed to move glucose into cells. Inside the cells, glucose is stored and later used for energy. Without sufficient insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of going into the cells. This increase glucose in the blood is called hyperglycemia, therefore body is unable to use the glucose for energy. Genetics is one of the causes, according to American Diabetes Association (2014) if you are a man with type 1 diabetes; the chances of your child developing diabetes are 1 in 17. If you are a woman with type 1 diabetes and your child was born before you were 25, your childs risk is 1 in 25, if your child was born after you turned 25, your childs risk is 1 in 100. Your childs risk is doubled if you developed diabetes before age 11. If both you and your partner have type 1 diabetes, the risk is between 1 in 10 and 1 in 4. Another cause of Type 1 diabetes mellitus is viruses that might promote autoimmunity. According to American Diabetes Association (2014) A significant number of viruses have been associated with type 1 diabetes, including enteroviruses such as Coxsackievirus B , but also rotavirus, mumps virus, and cytomegalovirus . Rubella virus has been suggested to cause type 1 diabetes, but so far only congenital rubella syndrome has convincingly been linked with the disease. The prime viral candidates for causing type 1 diabetes in humans are enteroviruses. Type 2 diabetes mellitus generally causes from the pancreas does not make sufficient insulin or the body is unable to use the insulin that is produced, as we know insulin resistance. According to Khardori. R (2014) Type 2 diabetes mellitus appears to involve complex relations between environmental and genetic factors, environmental factor is including lifestyle for example (excessive caloric intake, inadequate caloric expenditure, obesity), high body mass index (BMI) increases risk for diabetes. In addition, an in utero environment consequential in low birth weight may influence some individuals to develop type 2 diabetes mellitus. Infant weight velocity has a small, indirect effect on adult insulin resistance. In addition about 90% of obese patient develop type 2 dibetes mellitus. According to Winter S (2014). Second diabetes mellitus type 2 causes is by genetic, diabetes mellitus type 2 strongly has a hereditary component. However not everyone who carries a mutation will get diabetes. Gestational Diabetes type affects females during pregnancy. The cause’s gestational diabetes according to Mayo Clinic (2014) during pregnancy, the placenta, which connects your baby to your blood supply, produces high levels of various other hormones. Almost all of them impair the action of insulin in your cells, raising your blood sugar. As your baby grows, the placenta produces more and more insulin-blocking hormones. In gestational diabetes, the placental hormones provoke a rise in blood sugar to a level that can affect the growth and welfare of your baby. Gestational diabetes usually develops during the trimester. Pathogenesis According to Nucleus Medical Media (2014) Pathogenesis for diabetes mellitus type 1 is summaries that beta cells in the pancreas lose their ability to produce insulin, resulting in high blood glucose levels.In type 1 diabetes, your immune system, specifically your white blood cells, mistake your pancreatic beta cells for foreign invaders.In an autoimmune response, your white blood cells secrete auto antibodies that destroy your own beta cells.As a result, your pancreas produces little or no insulin.Without insulin, glucose cannot get into your cells, so they are starved for the calories they should be receiving from glucose.In addition, the glucose level builds up in your bloodstream, resulting in a condition called hyperglycemia. Diabetes mellitus type 2 usualy caused by obesity and physical inactivity, Diabetes mellitus type 2 is categorized as insulin resistant diabetes, it commonly referred to as the metabolic syndrome according to Hannele Yki-JÃ ¤rvinen (2011) Insulin resistance can be defined as the inability of insulin to produce its usual biological actions at circulating concentrations that are effective in normal subjects. In addition pathogenesis diabetes mellitus type 2 happen when beta cells of the pancreas are no longer capable to meet the body’s requirement for insulin. Hyperglycaemia therefore develops earlier in the course of beta cell failure, and in association with a greater beta cell mass, in insulin-resistant compared with insulin-sensitive individuals. The relative importance of reduced secretion of insulin and increased demand insulin resistance ranges along a range from one individual or population to the next. Pathogenesis of gestational diabetes. According to Manda A, when pregnant, human body will produce several hormones. Some pregnancy hormones disrupt the usual function of insulin by interfering cell signalling pathways. In the bloodstream insulin will stimulates fat tissue and skeletal muscle cells to absorb glucose. Because of presence insulin resistance the process uptake of blood glucose is prevented as a result the blood sugar level remains high. In the pregnancy glucose usually present in the blood stream in the placenta through the Glucose transporter 1 (GLU1) carrier to reach the fetus. If not been treated, amount of insulin develop by the fetus will increase, then the baby born larger body than is normal. After baby born the excess of glucose through placenta is done. However, the insulin production still increased it may lead to low blood glucose levels or hypoglycaemia. Manifestation According to Kishore P (2013), The types of diabetes have very related symptoms. The first symptoms are related to the direct effects of high blood glucose levels. When the blood glucose level rises above 160 to 180 mg/dL, glucose spills into the urine. When the level of glucose in the urine rises even higher, the kidneys excrete additional water to dilute the large amount of glucose. Because the kidneys produce excessive urine, people with diabetes urinate large volumes frequently. The excessive urination creates abnormal thirst. Because excessive calories are lost in the urine, people may lose weight. To compensate, people often feel excessively hungry. Other symptoms include blurred vision, drowsiness, nausea, and decreased endurance during exercise. Significant Lab Tests There are severe test can done to demonstrate diabetes mellitus (DM). According to Mayo Clinic (2014), the common test done is Glycated hemoglobin (A1C). Test this blood test indicates your average blood sugar level for the past two to three months. It measures the percentage of blood sugar attached to hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying protein in red blood cells. The higher your blood sugar levels, the more hemoglobin youll have with sugar attached. An A1C level of 6.5 percent or higher on two separate tests indicates that you have diabetes. An A1C between 5.7 and 6.4 percent indicates prediabetes. Below 5.7 is considered normal. However If the A1C test results arent consistent, the test isnt available, or if you have certain conditions that can make the A1C test inaccurate — such as if youre pregnant or have an uncommon form of hemoglobin (known as a hemoglobin variant) — your doctor may use the next tests to diagnose diabetes such as. Random blood sugar test. Fasting blood sugar test. Oral glucose tolerance test

Pentecostal History Essay -- Church History

To know the history of the Pentecostal movement, one needs to know what they believe. Pentecostalism is a movement within Christianity that places special emphasis on a direct personal experience of God through the baptism in the Holy Spirit. During Pentecost, the Holy Spirit fell upon those in the upper room. Acts 2:1-4 says, â€Å"When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[ as the Spirit enabled them.† (1,3) The Pentecostal movement started in the late 19th century in revival movements in Great Britain and in the United States of America. Within this movement more attention was placed on the person and the work of the Holy Spirit. Some people felt that the church was missing the power and authority of the church they read about in the bible. We will look at the Pentecostal movement from the past and look at it all the way up through to today. (1) The earliest date given for the beginning of the Pentecostal movement is January 1, 1901. A man by the name of Charles Parham began teaching that the act of speaking in tongues was the biblical evidence that someone was filled with the Holy Spirit. He started teaching this at Bethel Bible College in Topeka, Kansas. Over time Charles Parham moved to Texas to teach. While Charles spoke in Texas, William J. Seymour was attending. William J. Seymour traveled to Los Angeles where he led the Azusa Street Revivals in 1906. The beginning of the w... ...ecostals. It is important to know where we came from in order to know where we are going. The future is bright for the Assemblies of God if they just rely on God and the power of the Holy Spirit. Works Cited 1. Wacker, Grant. Heaven Below: Early Pentecostals and American Culture. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard University Press, 2001. 2. Miller, Donald E. and Tetsunao Yamamori. Global Pentecostalism: The New Face of Christian Social Engagement. Berkeley, California: University of California Press, 2007. 3. Hollenweger, Walter. Pentecostalism : Origins and Developments Worldwide. Peabody, Massachusetts: Hendrickson Publishers, 1997 4. Burgess. Encyclopedia of Pentecostal and Charismatic Christianity 5. Blumhofer, Edith L. Restoring the Faith: The Assemblies of God, Pentecostalism, and American Culture, 1993 6. www.ag.org

The Situation In Ireland :: European Europe History

The Situation In Ireland "But who are we that we should hesitate to die for Ireland. Are not the claims of Ireland greater on us than any personal ones? Is it fear that deters us from such an enterprise? Away with such fears. Cowards die many times, the brave only die once." Padraic Pearse (rebellion leader), 1916 (The New Republic, 34) Pearse's words, spoken just before the Easter rebellion, summarizes many Irish feelings toward rebellion for independence. In order to gain freedom from the British, revolutionaries were willing to sacrifice anything, even their lives. For centuries, the Irish had been part of the vast British empire and for most of that time, they struggled to obtain their sovereignty. Numerous events sparked this discontent in Ireland in the early 20th century. At the top of their list of grievances was the political treatment of the Irish. The Irish parliament was highly inadequate and inefficient with no real power to represent the people (The Outlook, pg 116). Additionally, Britain governed Ireland in the same manner that it governed all of its territories; it ruled according to what would best serve Great Britain, not the territory. For example, Ireland's commerce was discouraged and their manufacturing was paralyzed by British legislation (The Outlook, pg 116). Religious treatment of Roman Cat holics also angered the Irish. A large number of Irish were (and still are) Catholic and were repressed in many ways by English legislature. They were expected to pay taxes to support the Established Church of England, which gave Catholics no services. Furthermore, Britain forbade Catholics from providing education for their own children. Catholics could not be teachers and parents could not send their children abroad for education without forfeiture of their property and citizenship (The Outlook, pg 117). Although these actions by the British government infuriated the Irish, the new wave of rebellion actually began again in 1914 with the British government's repeal of the recently enacted Home Rule Bill, which gave the Irish some measure of political autonomy. These feelings came to a peak on Easter Monday, April 24, 1916 in the Irish capital of Dublin when approximately 1500 men, led by Pearse, seized the post office and other strategic points. These men were members of the Citizen Army, an illegal force of Dublin citizens organized by labor leader Jim Larkin and socialist James Connolly. From here, they established themselves in military fashion by erecting barricades of sandbags and closing off the streets with barbed wire.

Advantages of Standardization

Standardization is the process by which a company makes it methods, especially its production processes, uniform throughout its organization. Standardization helps cut costs by eliminating duplicated effort and allows a company to take advantage of economies of scale when purchasing supplies. However, some advantages may be lost when a company decided to standardize its operations. Disadvantages Loss of Uniqueness If a company builds up a customer base that values its unique niche products, or if the company serves a specialized market, standardizing its processes may mean it loses some of its former customers. For example, if a restaurant builds its reputation on a varied and exotic menu, then changes to a standardized menu to provide a more predictable customer experience, its former customers may defect to competitors who provide more variety. Loss of Responsiveness. When a company expands into new markets, especially in foreign markets, standardization may work against the firm. While it may be cheaper for a restaurant to buy its trademark hamburgers in bulk, if it expands into a new market where people buy chicken much more often, its standardization measures may make it slower to respond to market conditions and end up costing money. Unsuited to Some Aspects of Business Standardization may be advantageous in some areas of business, such as production, but some aspects of a business should be tailored to the customers' needs. Customer service, advertising, distribution and product pricing must be driven by local market conditions to be successful. Stifles Creativity and Response Time Standardization has the potential to get a business into a rut. Standards, once implemented, soon become the status quo and may become entrenched in the corporate culture, making them hard to change when change is needed. However, market conditions often change, and companies that change quickly are best positioned to take advantage of them. Standardization may also stifle creativity, particularly in product design.

Manners Makes Man

A man is known to be good or bad according to the way he behaves towards others and under some circumstances. When his habits and manners are good, he is known to be a gentleman. A man with proper manners attracts the attention and admiration of everyone, whereas the man with ill-manners draws himself the ridicule and contempt of others. Cultivation of good manners should be started from the childhood and it is done so, it would become an asset in life. An accident was witnessed many years ago could be cited in support of such training being given early in life.A man is known to be good or bad according to the way he behaves towards others and under some circumstances. When his habits and manners are good, he is known to be a gentleman. A man with proper manners attracts the attention and admiration of everyone, whereas the man with ill-manners draws himself the ridicule and contempt of others. Cultivation of good manners should be started from the childhood and it is done so, it wou ld become an asset in life. An accident was witnessed many years ago could be cited in support of such training being given early in life.A well dressed and educated couple who appeared to belong to the higher levels of society were traveling in a first class compartment of an express train and with them was their girl child of about 3 years old. There were only three or four other passengers in the compartment. A few minutes after the train steamed out of the station, the child asked for a biscuit and it was given by her mother. When the girl was about to eat that, the mother snatched it away from her hands. A few minutes later this â€Å"drama† was enacted three times, the biscuit being snatched away when it was about to put to the lips.This attracted the attention of other passengers. The fourth time girl asked for the biscuit and when it was given, she said â€Å"Thank you Mummy†, and she was permitted to eat the biscuit. This was a training in good manners, traini ng in courtesy, not given with scolding and rebukes and reminders from the mother, but one of a lesson in self-realisation. This child was made to think and act; It was made to think and understand about the apparently meaningless and seemingly cruel act of the mother. If such training is given to every child the world would be a better place to live in.A man may be wealthy; he may be handsome; or he may, in addition have the advantage of enjoying power and position. But if he does not possess good manners, it would be useless to have such advantages. All these assets would be poor compensation for the lack of good manners. There are many who would put up with even in insults from others, but would not tolerate bad manners. Good manners are invaluable to people everywhere, in every walk of life. The executive in an industrial concern would be honoured and respected more if his manners are such as to be courteous and polite to the subordinates.If a businessman forgets manners and is impolite, if not positively rude to his customers and employees, he will lose his customers and consequently have a loss in business financially too. The same principle applies to the principal or professor in a college or university, to a lawyer or doctor. Good manners as exemplified in courtesy in speech and action are indispensable to traveling medical representatives or salesman, for their success depends upon the possession of this quality.They can be sure of good clientele only if they eschew rudeness or incivility or ill temper Good manners are, therefore, manifestation of good breeding and are indispensable to everyone. The personality of a man is well brought out by his behaviour and speech and these are reflections of good manners. Even a man of ordinary looks or appearance, or a man who is not handsome may make a deep impression on others and give pleasures to others in his company if he possesses good manners.Similarly, an unscrupulous man may also succeed in his ways an d hide his real nature if he develops his manners and passes for a gentleman. His courteous and polite actions or speech may succeed in deceiving others as to his real intention and nature. Such is the effect of manners. A man is known by the dress he wears it is said. He will be better known to others if he possesses fine manners. Notoriety may also result from outward manners. Whether a man is good or bad, popular or unpopular, famous or notorious will depend upon his manners.His company would be welcomed or hated according to the manner in which he behaves with others. Hence, if one trains one?s children is in the development of courteous speech and action and polite behaviour one can be proud of giving to the nation worthy citizens. If you have good behaviour, You can conquer herats. If not, know how to attract others http://expertscolumn. com/content/how-attract-others-and-how-increase-your-personality-want-become-star Know how to become smart from today http://expertscolumn. c om/content/be-smart-today

Contextual Factors in Pride and Prejudice influence the characters. Do you agree?

There are many contextual factors in Pride and Prejudice that certainly influence the characters, in the way the characters behave and also in the way that they are viewed. A few of the main factors are money, marriage and the role of women and these can be seen as a few of the novel's themes. However, these factors do not always influence all of the characters. I will explore the different contextual factors in the novel and come to the conclusion as to whether I agree with the statement. Money is a highly influential factor in Pride and Prejudice, so much so, that the narrator is very careful to give financial details of every character to ensure that the reader has an idea of the social standings of all the characters and their placement in society. As the Bennet family and the Lucas family have less money, this means they are of a lower class than most of the other families in the book, for example the Darcys and the Bingleys. This means that the daughters in these families are less likely to be offered a proposal of marriage, as the classes tend not to mix and the possible crossing of social boundaries seems insurmountable. This can be shown in chapter 8, where Miss Bingley mock Elizabeth's behaviour and her family. Miss Bingley begins by stating, â€Å"I have an excessive regard for Jane Bennet, she is really a very sweet girl,† to give the impression of being caring and thoughtful and continues to say, â€Å"I wish with all my heart she were well settled. But with such a father and mother and such low connections, I am afraid there is no chance of it. † In this quote, Miss Bingley conveys fact as an opinion which she uses to try and manipulate her brother's views. By stating this, Miss Bingley shows that she feels Jane should not be allowed to wed Mr Bingley, as this would be crossing the social boundaries. This chapter also shows how Mr Bingley is not affected by money and the fact that Elizabeth has low connections, as this does not affect the way he perceives her. By stating that â€Å"it would not matter if they had uncles enough to fill all Cheapside, it would not make one of them one jot less agreeable,† it illustrates how Bingley is not swayed by other characters' status or appearance. Money can also influence the appearance of characters on the surface, as when Mr Darcy is introduced in chapter 3, he is described as being very favourable, based only on his social standing and his financial status. The fact that Darcy earned ‘ten thousand a year' meant that people looked at him â€Å"with great admiration for half the evening†. It is only when people explored his character that they found him to be â€Å"proud and above his company†, which allows the reader to see how money influences their perception of characters. Elizabeth could be described as one of the only characters with morals whose life is not completely influenced by money, but her conversation with Jane in chapter 59 that her character can in fact be affected by wealth. Her comments to Jane that her love for Darcy began â€Å"from my first seeing his beautiful grounds at Pemberley† and although Elizabeth is joking about this, the audience realises that there is an element of truthfulness in what she has said. She feels â€Å"some perturbation† on approaching Pemberley: â€Å"her spirits were in a high flutter†. When she sees the estate, â€Å"at that moment she felt that to be mistress of Pemberley might be something! † Elizabeth speaks of a present and a future, not of something past and concluded, which demonstrates how she could be persuaded by Darcy's estate to marry him. This shows how Darcy's wealth is of great interest to Elizabeth, when she is confronted by its reality, that she can escape her life of being poor and having little money. The reader can also see that the idea of money influences Charlotte, â€Å"Lady Lucas began to directly calculate with more interest than the matter had ever excited before how many years longer Mr Bennet was likely to live†. This shows Charlotte treats money higher in her opinion than the feelings of her friend when her father dies. Charlotte, thinking up â€Å"kind schemes† for Elizabeth feels that Colonel Fitzwilliam was â€Å"beyond comparison the pleasantest man; he certainly admired her and his situation in life was most eligible; but, to counterbalance these advantages, Mr Darcy had considerable patronage in the church and his cousin could have none at all†. This reveals the final twist in which Charlotte's thoughts move from the outcome that might suit her friend best, to that which would serve her own purposes through the advancement and enrichment of Mr Collins, which would undoubtedly earn her more money. Property is shown to be a contextual factor that influences the characters as the females of the Bennet family are in real financial difficulty, as their house is to be entailed upon Mr Collins when Mr Bennet dies. This puts the Bennet daughters into a difficult position as there is added pressure to marry well so they can be financially secure. This pressure is increased as Mrs Bennet wanted one of her daughters to marry Mr Collins so that the Bennet family would not lose the estate which has been in their family for many generations. Property can also be seen as a beneficial factor that influences the perception of characters because at this time the larger the estate then more money was earned. This can be seen in the description of Mr Darcy in chapter 3, where the people at the ball thought very highly of him when they heard about the size of his estate in Derbyshire, which directly relates to his earnings. A contextual factor that influences all the women characters in the novel is marriage. A perfect example of this is in Charlotte Lucas marrying Mr Collins, as she does not marry for love, she marries him to be financially secure and to have a place in society. This can be seen in the quote by the narrator describing Charlotte, â€Å"who accepted him solely from the pure and disinterested desire of an establishment†. This shows that Charlotte married only for an estate and money, so that she could establish herself in society as women were looked down upon if they were not married. As the life expectancy for women in the early 1800's was around the mid to late 30s and Charlotte was 28, she saw that marriage was the only honourable provision for a woman in her position and wealth. Although Elizabeth and Charlotte were close friends, they had very different views. Elizabeth felt that â€Å"it was a long time before she became at all reconciled to the idea of an unsuitable match. She had always felt that Charlotte's opinion of matrimony was not exactly like her own†. Charlotte was prepared to marry for money and financial security and she thought that â€Å"happiness in marriage is entirely a matter of chance†. In the 1800's society influenced the characters of the novel as marriage was essential for women, they were entirely dependant on men to look after them and if women were not married, they were thought to be excluded from society. However, this did not affect Elizabeth as she turned down two respectable proposals of marriage, from Mr Collins and Mr Darcy. The former proposal is deemed to be more acceptable and her family is more understanding of this as Mr Collins is pompous and boastful, and an all round unfavourable character. However, Mrs Bennet was upset when Elizabeth declined his proposal as it is her duty as a mother to marry all her daughters off and help them to set up her lives. Mr Bennet opposed his wife's views and suggested to Elizabeth that, â€Å"Your mother will never speak to you again if you do not marry Mr Collins, and I will never speak to you again if you do†. This led to Mr Collins withdrawing his offer and marrying Charlotte. The latter proposal was certainly very easy for Elizabeth to refuse as she explained to him that after knowing him for a month, â€Å"I felt that you were the last man in the world whom I could ever be prevailed on to marry. Although, we can see that wealth does affect Elizabeth's judgement as after the proposal is made, she feels some guilt for not accepting the proposal as it would mean a better life for her and it would please her mother and her family. Even though Darcy admits how he admires and loves Elizabeth, he is still influenced by the fact that she is of a lower class and â€Å"his sense of her inferiority – of its being degradation† and before his proposal he would have convinced himself that this could not happen and admits he has repressed his feelings. However, in spite of this, Darcy is still prepared to marry Elizabeth and cross the social boundaries, which shows that money and Elizabeth's â€Å"low connections† do not influence him fully. The pressure of marriage affects many of the characters, but it does not affect Jane or Mr Bingley, as they overcome the separation of the classes and are married because they are truly in love with one another. Jane and Bingley represent the coming together of two handsome, like-minded and kind-hearted people. Their eventual marriage is delightful and a relief to the reader as their have been many obstacles in their way of marriage. The main reason of their separation was caused by the persuasion of Darcy because he thinks that Jane is not in love with his friend Bingley. The reader knows that part of the reason why he persuades Bingley is because he does not feel Jane is worthy enough for his friend. This is ironic as he then proposes to Elizabeth who detests him. In chapter 8 there is a discussion of the accomplishments of young ladies. Bingley has a lot of admiration for women's ability to â€Å"paint tables, cover screens and net purses†, but Darcy wants more than this and even more than the list Caroline Bingley provides of â€Å"music, singing drawing, dancing and modern languages,† plus â€Å"something in her air and manner of walking†. If men expect all those accomplishments for the women to have, then the Bennet daughters and many other women in their position will have little hope of marrying well. However, as seen in chapter 29 when Lady Catherine quizzes Elizabeth with many questions about her family and finds that none of them can draw she is very surprised, â€Å"What, none of you? † and also that only one of her sisters can play the piano and sing. This demonstrates that women do not always need a long list of accomplishments in order to be married, for Mr Darcy was not concerned about her lack of abilities, but only cared about her â€Å"liveliness of mind† and the spirited freedom of her thinking about her world, even in spite of the pressures cause by its snobbery and narrowness of society. In conclusion, the contextual factors do influence many of the characters in the novel, but some of these characters are able to overcome the pressures of society and cross the social boundaries. By using Elizabeth as a main character, Austen is able to highlight these factors as she is not influenced by them and causes others around her to rebel against the norm. The main character highlights what is expected of women and the ‘norms and values' in society during the nineteenth century by behaving in an unacceptable way. The fact that in chapter eight, when Elizabeth walks to Netherfield to visit her sister, and her appearance is deemed improper by the Bingley sisters, â€Å"her petticoat, six inches deep in mud†, is one of the main reasons why Darcy falls in love with Elizabeth, shows that some men prefer women with an independence of mind and a free spirit. This is not in agreement with society, where it is believed women should depend on men and all act very similar with no specific purpose as they are just possessions of men.