Essay On Chinas One Child Policy - 1075 Words

How Does Chinas One Child Policy Affect its Economy? Summary Overpopulation always has been one of the essential problems that China needs to pay attention to. In 1979, Chinese government promulgated a law called ‘one-child policy’ that official name is ‘family planning policy’, which purpose is to slow down the rate of population growth and control the size of the total population. This paper using calibrated general-equilibrium models that compared benchmark with a fertility constraint and counterfactual experiment to study the effects of China’s one-child policy. The results indicate that one-child policy mainly effected six fields of China. First, the one-child policy promoted human capital of China and increased per†¦show more content†¦So, how has the one-child policy affected China? In her essay, â€Å"The one-child policy: A Macroeconomic Analysis†, published in 2012, author Pei-Ju Liao argues that â€Å"the one-child policy contributed to China’s macroeconomics in many w ays and it brought a wide variety of positive possibility of China’s economy, and how one-child policy reaches the initial goal of buffering the highly increased population†. She effectively analyzes numerous data and macroeconomic models to show how Chinese economic development benefits form one-child policy and some ineluctable disadvantage. One important idea form the article is that one child policy did has a positive effect on China’s future economic growth. Pei-Ju Liao writes, â€Å"The results suggest that introducing the one-child policy promotes the accumulation of human capital and increases per capita output†. I totally agree with her point. In China, Mao Zedong, the Chairman of the Communist Party of China 1949-76, believed that there’s strength in number †, one way that empowers the country is the growth of population. They even come up with a medal called â€Å"hero mother† to encourage women to have more babies. This stra tegy significantly increased the Chinese population. The population almost doubled from 541.67 million to 962.59 million between 1949 and 1978. During this period, one woman had about 6 children on an average. Finally, this gradually decreased due to natural causes. Parents used toShow MoreRelatedChinas One Child Policy Essay1134 Words   |  5 PagesGovernment Action on Population Control and Chinas One Child Policy One of the more extreme measures taken in an attempt to control population has been Chinas one-child policy. Population advocate Garet Hardin suggests the rest of the world adopt similar policies. This paper is to show a countrys government acting on theories that Hardin is popular for and the ethical and environmental effects that it had on people and the land. Hardin fails to see the ethical problems laid out by governmentsRead MoreEssay On Chinas One Child Policy1129 Words   |  5 PagesChina’s one-child policy was implicated in China in the late 1970’s, during a time where China’s population was equivalent to about the quarter of the world’s population (CD, 2017). The Chinese government thought it was essential to put in place a policy that would aid the economic well being of the country and to improve the living standards, by controlling the rapid population growth. This policy meant that it was illegal for couples to have more than one child, di sobeying this law would causeRead MoreEssay Chinas One Child Policy785 Words   |  4 Pagesover than one billion people. China had a leading civilization for centuries guiding the whole world in different fields. However, in the 19th and the 20th century China suffered form serious problems, which resulted from huge numbers of population. When China was under the leadership of Mao who believed that a strong nation must have large population, the population of China increased rapidly until it reached its double. From one hand, Peng Peiyun, the writer of One family, one child, stressedRead MoreEssay On Chinas One Child Policy1195 Words   |  5 PagesChina’s one-child policy made it illegal for most Chinese couples to have more than one child. It was the culmination of the government’s long struggle to control population growth. The policy was enforced mainly through financial incentives and punishments, but in rural areas brutal enforcement techniques like non-consen sual sterilization and abortion were sometimes used. While the policy did reduce the population, it also caused problems such as an unbalanced male-female sex ratio and â€Å"4:2:1 familiesRead MoreEssay On Chinas One Child Policy766 Words   |  4 PagesA Policy for the Better China, in the late 1970s, had an unbelievable population; close to one billion. With such an alarming number of people and limited resources, even in such a large nation, there had to be an even larger change. China’s one-child policy was a remedy to this problem, and helped Chinese citizens in many ways. Without the policy, China would have many economic problems and serves all of China with its rules. China’s one-child policy was an excellent idea for China and its peopleRead MoreChinas One Child Policy Essay886 Words   |  4 Pagesthe one-child policy to slow their growing population. The one-child policy has prevailed effectively in slowing down the population growth, but it has caused great anguish among Chinese families. Matt Rosenberg explains how one of the problems facing China in recent years is overpopulation. The Chinese government needed to make a policy to cope with the growing numbers of Chinese citizens. China remains the only country in the world where it is illegal to have a brother or sister. Chinas one childRead MoreEssay On Chinas One Child Policy700 Words   |  3 PagesChina’s One-Child Policy Wasn’t Worth Keeping China’s One-Child Policy was an attempt to handle China’s ever-growing population, which seemed like it would soon outgrow China’s economy and food production. In fact, it did just that in 1959 when a catastrophic famine struck China and caused the death of millions of Chinese due to Mao Zedong’s â€Å"Great Leap Forward† plan that was intended to modernize China’s economy. Following this, the Chinese government started to push further and further forRead More Chinas One-Child Policy Essay1764 Words   |  8 Pagesabortion and sterilization are China’s war on women† (The Reality of Chinas 1). This was said by Reggie Littlejohn, the president of Women’s Rights Without Frontiers. Due to the rising population and the one-child policy, there are many human rights violations; however there are organizations, such as Women’s Rights Without Frontiers, which are helping to stop the problem. Due to the one-child policy there are many serious human rights infractions. Since the policy has been in effect, there haveRead MoreChinas One Child-Policy Essay1214 Words   |  5 Pageshappening in china right now because of the one child-policy. Can you imagine what’s going to happen when Chinese culture is destroyed because of males taking over and reducing female gender, more crime, and also the most important thing would be war going one. The one child-policy should not exist because reduction of female gender can cause culture affect and economic wise and violating social equality. In 1964, the first national family planning to oversee china’s fertility reduction programs, which focusedRead MoreEssay Chinas One-Child Policy1583 Words   |  7 Pagesdoesn’t have. The one-child policy has created many problems for China after it was created by the Communist party to control population growth; however, China is taking steps towards relaxing it, and many more people are speaking out. The one-child policy has caused many more issues than it has solved. The restrictions people must follow are causing a lot of the problems. One of the issues is that China will not relax the policy (Olesen 1). By limiting urban families to one child in a family, China

The Origins Of Our Cities - 1726 Words

The Origins of Cities The topic statement I chose was The Origins of Our Cities. I am personally interested in what caused the cities to form and function the way it did. How did these cities of our past affect us today? The main focus of the paper is to identify the principle of the cause effect relationship in the development of these cities. The first cities were developed and formed near bodies of water and fertile areas of the region. For example, I wanted to do some research on the Sumerian civilization around the fertile crescent and how the ancient Sumerian deities, the Anunnaki, played a part in influencing their way of life and their formation of their cities/communities. My interest started from my own curiosity of how†¦show more content†¦In the story, the tiger gave up after a few days, but the bear continued and became a woman. The god found the woman to be so beautiful he decided to marry her, and she gave birth to a child who became the first king of Korea. In the first scene of the movie Star Trek Into the Darkness, the captain of the Starship Enterprise is being chased by the native aliens of a particular planet because he steals a scroll that is sacred to them to lead them out of harm’s way. Meanwhile Spock, the second in command, is inside a volcano near this primitive society and is about to erupt, which could cause the native alien race to become extinct. While attempting to detonate an explosive device to neutralize the situation, he realizes that he is going to die saving these species. After tossing the scroll back to the natives and returning safely back to the ship, the captain breaks protocol and decides to expose their starship to this primitive race in order to save Spock. In the process, the native alien race sees the starship and at that very moment give no regard to the once sacred scroll they worshipped. Instead, they start drawing an outline of the starship and being to bow to it, believing that it is their sa vior and god. This very scene brings to mind the possibility that an extraterrestrial race could have had some sort of influence on our origins and the development of the first cities. The two examples that I have written about above are clearly not

Free Media Violence Violence in Primetime M Essay Example For Students

Free Media Violence: Violence in Primetime M Essay edia Argumentative Persuasive Essays Violence in Primetime Before graduating from high school, the average American child will have witnessed 8,000 murders and 200,000 acts of violence on television. This overwhelming presentation of violence to society can only mean one thing: violence sells, and sells big. But we must ask at what cost? Since violence in the media has long been analyzed and discussed by researchers and media, several measures have since been implemented to stop or reduce violence on television. But even with the recent measures, such as the V-chip and a television ratings system, we must question why television violence continues and the purpose it serves. A 1999 Communication Research article reported that several studies have been conducted to reveal some of the effects television violence can have on our youth and on society in general. The results of these studies have consistently found a correlation between viewing television violence and the viewers aggressive behavior and lack of emotions after the viewing. In 1996, President Bill Clinton commended the television industrys implementation of a television ratings system as a step in the right direction. The actions of the television industry show us what can happen when visionary business leaders make a commitment to values and the common good, he said. However, his comments are contradictory. As Clinton compliments the industry for its movements to regulate the amount of media violence, he improperly supports industry leaders for making a commitment to values and the common good. Certainly repeated violence on television does not expose society to important values and lessons. Joanne Cantor, professor of Communication Arts at UW-Madison and author of the book Mommy, Im Scared, discussed the medias presentation of violence. Television and movies, by their very nature, have the ability to introduce children to frightening images, events and ideas, many of which they would not encounter in their entire lives without the mass media, Cantor said. Professor Joanne Cantor speaks on violence in the media With societys continued exposure to these disturbing images, recent measures have done little to affect the number of violent programs produced. Since money is a fundamental driver and serves as an incentive for people to work not only for themselves, but to better society, certain fundamental steps, both money related, would provoke production companies to create more innovative and thought-provoking programs. As a result of television violence, two forms of action must be taken by society to compel the television industry to reexamine the violent content in their programs and potentially lead producers to divert from their exploitations of violence. The first would entail a national boycott by advertisers sponsoring violent programs. If such a movement could gain support and momentum, then producers would ultimately need to seriously abolish their violent programs for without the financial investment of sponsors their programs could not gain national exposure and survive. The second form of action concerns the network sponsors who have the final say over what gets aired. Network sponsors could refuse to air any programs that are violence-oriented. However, such a move could lead to a lengthy court case featuring production companies arguing over their first amendment rights to produce such material. Once network and advertising sponsors reevaluate these programs, examine what they truly have to offer and then boycott sponsoring such programs, the television industry may too be forced to review their current standing and return to programs that exemplify a commitment to values. .

Women and Development Essay Example

Women and Development Essay Enhancing women’s participation in economic development is essential not only for achieving social justice but also for reducing poverty. World wide experience shows clearly that supporting a stronger role for women contributes to economic growth, it improves child survival and overall family health and it reduces fertility thus helping to slow population growth rates. In short investing in women is central to sustainable development. And yet, despite these known returns, women still face many barriers in contributing to and benefiting from development.It is from this backdrop that this essay seeks to describe the ways and means to promote women’s participation in economic development. The essay will begin by defining the concept of economic development, after that it will go into describing the ways and means to promote women’s participation in economic development, in this essay the ways and means will be broken down into five areas, education, health, wage lab our, agriculture and natural resource management and financial services. Thereafter a conclusion will be drawn.The concept of economic development can be taken to mean the sustained, concerted actions of policy makers and communities that promote the standard of living and economic health of a specific area. Economic development can also be referred to as the quantitative and qualitative changes in the economy. Such actions can include multiple areas including development of human capital, critical infrastructure, regional competitiveness, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, health, safety, literacy and other initiatives (Todaro amp; Smith, 2005).Education is the most important means of empowering women with the knowledge, skills and self confidence necessary to participate fully in the development process. Education is important for everyone but it is especially significant for girls and women. This is true not only because education is an entry point to other opportuni ties, but also because the educational achievements of women can have ripple effects within the family and across generations. Investing in girls’ education is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty.Investments in secondary school education for girls especially yield high dividends. Girls who have been educated are likely to marry later and to have smaller and healthier families. Educated women can recognize the importance of health care and know how to seek it for themselves and their children. Education helps girls and women to know their human rights and to gain confidence to claim them (Thompson, 2004). In addition to this, the education of parents is linked to their children’s educational attainment, and the mother’s education is usually more influential than the father’s.An educated mother’s greater influence in household negotiations may allow her to secure more resources for her children. Educated mothers are more likely to be in the labour force, allowing them to pay some of the costs of schooling, and may be more aware of returns to schooling. And educated mothers, averaging fewer children, can concentrate more attention on each child. Besides having fewer children, mothers with schooling are less likely to have mistimed or unintended births.This has implications for schooling, because poor parents must choose which of their children to educate (ibid). Closing the gender gap in education is a development priority. The 1994 Cairo Consensus recognised education especially for women, as a force for social and economic development. Universal completion of primary education was set as a 20- year goal, as was wider access to secondary and higher education among girls and women. Closing the gender gap in education by 2015 is also one of the benchmarks for the Millennium Development Goals.Therefore it must be stated that once women are educated, they are able to participate effectively in economic development (Vos senberg, 2013). Secondly there is the area of health, avoidable female deaths in the developing countries are strongly associated with health care and nutrition failures, whereas avoidable male mortality is associated more with behavioural occupational hazards that are less susceptible to prevention within the health sector, such as exposure to toxins, smoking, drug and alcohol use, violence and accidents.The low marginal costs of preventing women’s disability, illness, and premature death through family planning, nutritional supplementation, community based primary health care and safe mother hood programs (including safe abortion) argue for expanding such programmes in all countries especially in high mortality, high fertility settings. Health services that integrate nutrition training and supplementation, family planning, maternal and childcare and primary health care are the most effective in reaching women because they address a wide spectrum of women’s needs and responsibilities and save them time.In some settings the training of female health personnel may be particularly important, and combining care for women and children can help overcome some of the permission barriers that inhibit women from seeking health care. Ensuring that women have access to quality health care would enable them to effectively participate in economic development (World Bank, 1994). Thirdly there is the area of wage labour, unlike the strategies in education and health, those for increasing the participation rates of women and reducing wage differences between men and women are less proven.The main strategies here include increasing the productivity of women, reducing the constraints women face while participating in the labour market and improving the efficiency of the labour market. Providing childcare can reduce the household constraints that working women face, particularly in urban areas where the extended family often is not available to help. With broader c hildcare facilities available, women may not need to compromise on the type of jobs they accept. This would begin to bridge the male-female differences in earnings that cannot be attributed to human capital differences.For example the community childcare project in Colombia provides for the nutrition, health, and early-childhood development needs of children aged 2 through 6 in low income urban communities. Community mothers chosen by parents, care for about fifteen children each in their homes. The service support component of the project provides training to the community mothers and helps upgrade their homes to reach minimum standards for providing childcare. It increases the productive potential of mothers by offering alternative childcare arrangements, but its cost-effectiveness has yet to be evaluated (ibid).Removing policies of segregation and discrimination to promote access to jobs and making information available to lower the search costs associated with finding a job are other strategies. For instance the employment and training project in Turkey incorporates some of these actions, but it is too recent to provide insights about their effectiveness. In the ongoing projects in Turkey and Hungary, youth and adult counselling systems and career awareness are intended to be gender neutral.This is to ensure gender neutrality in job vacancies, the abolition of gender preferences can be specified as a project goal, as in the Turkey employment project. In countries where there is gender segregation, training projects for women could be designed to be more gender sensitive and address segregation issues. And where equal employment laws exist, countries can be encouraged to enforce them more rigorously. This would in turn ensure that more and more women are able to participate in economic development (Rakodi, 2005). The fourth area has to do with agriculture and natural resource management.The many responsibilities of rural women can impose time and energy con straints on their participation in programs designed to increase their incomes. Part of the strategy, therefore is to increase their productivity in existing tasks. However, given the option, many women want to escape the drudgery of many of these activities, highlighting the importance of increasing women’s options in agriculture and in home production. Many projects of the World Bank and other agencies include three basic interventions to improve the delivery of extension services to rural women.One is to improve the delivery of appropriate extension messages to women as a separate clientele. The second is to increase the number of female agents and supervisors in the extension system or to separate facilities, transportation, and other resources for extension women farmers. Delivering appropriate extension messages to women may entail revising the content and orientation of extension in order to address women farmers’ needs (Farnworth amp; Munachoga, 2010). Furtherm ore, women bear the burden of environmental degradation, as they have to trek long distances to fetch fuel wood and water.Natural resource management projects and policy oriented studies need to fully evaluate the costs and adverse externalities of environmental damage by including the direct and indirect costs to women’s activities. Deforestation, for example impose both direct and opportunity costs on women. Direct costs result when fuel wood resources are depleted (and must be purchased) and indirect costs occur when women have to walk long distances to obtain fuel wood. When they can be trained to contribute to environmental conservation.Such training in research and analysis of environmental problems and their causes and consequences can equip women to participate effectively in decision making on issues relating to environmental policy. Technology transfer if appropriately designed and adapted, could lead to more efficient use of resources, yield significant environment al benefits and enhance women’s productivity to use resources more sustainably (Rakodi, 2005). Natural resources management projects need to identify and consult women’s groups in order to ensure environmental conservation and sustainable management.Failure to identify and acknowledge the role of women in environmental processes can result in inappropriate interventions and jeopardize the success of environmental projects. Wherever women play a role in influencing policymaking on environment, investigators could document and learn from experience. Women’s groups and environmental NGOs can also play an important role (ibid). Lastly there is the area of financial services, high transaction costs, and high perceived risks of default, lack of collateral and social resistance commonly bar women’s access to credit.One way to reduce transaction costs is group lending, in which members accept joint liability for loans this relieves the lender of the costly proces s of checking the creditworthiness of individual borrowers and lowers the administrative costs per loan, which is particularly important if the average loan is very small. The groups take over many of the screening, incentive and enforcement functions normally left to banking staff. Group lending also spares borrowers elaborate application procedures, transportation costs, and the need for collateral.Other techniques for lowering transactions include inexpensive and mobile offices, hiring of staff from client communities, and standardized and decentralized procedures for lending. Group lending also lowers the risk of default. The combination of peer pressure and cooperative gained from participation in a group has proved to be an effective motivator for repayment in many different countries and settings worldwide (Vossenberg, 2013). Lack of collateral is a pervasive problem for the poor, and particularly for women who rarely have title to significant assets.Joint liability groups re place collateral with a collective guarantee in many programs. Providing access to financial services is necessary but not sufficient. Women who have never used a bank must be taught how to do so. Training and confidence building are especially important for women, who are likely to have less formal education and less experience with formal organizations and procedures. Alongside financial services, it is imperative to equip women with training in small enterprise, entrepreneurship and management, how to begin and successfully sustain an enterprise.When women have access to financial services, they will be better equipped to participate effectively in economic development (World Bank, 1994). In conclusion, this essay has discussed various ways and means of enhancing women’s participation in economic development. The first one being education, which has been identified as being the most important, this is because education gives women power, self confidence and the knowledge t hat can equip them to participate fully in economic development. The second one is health, access to good quality health enables women to effectively participate in economic growth.The third, point has to do with wage labour, there is need for more and more women to be incorporated into wage labour, this would ensure that women start getting a stable salary which would help them to have disposable income that they can invest in businesses, and eventually they would be able to participate in economic development. The last two points that have been discussed are agriculture and natural resource management and financial resources. When women are properly trained in the area of agriculture and finances, they are better able to participate in economic development. Women and Development Essay Example Women and Development Essay Enhancing women’s participation in economic development is essential not only for achieving social justice but also for reducing poverty. World wide experience shows clearly that supporting a stronger role for women contributes to economic growth, it improves child survival and overall family health and it reduces fertility thus helping to slow population growth rates. In short investing in women is central to sustainable development. And yet, despite these known returns, women still face many barriers in contributing to and benefiting from development.It is from this backdrop that this essay seeks to describe the ways and means to promote women’s participation in economic development. The essay will begin by defining the concept of economic development, after that it will go into describing the ways and means to promote women’s participation in economic development, in this essay the ways and means will be broken down into five areas, education, health, wage lab our, agriculture and natural resource management and financial services. Thereafter a conclusion will be drawn.The concept of economic development can be taken to mean the sustained, concerted actions of policy makers and communities that promote the standard of living and economic health of a specific area. Economic development can also be referred to as the quantitative and qualitative changes in the economy. Such actions can include multiple areas including development of human capital, critical infrastructure, regional competitiveness, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, health, safety, literacy and other initiatives (Todaro amp; Smith, 2005).Education is the most important means of empowering women with the knowledge, skills and self confidence necessary to participate fully in the development process. Education is important for everyone but it is especially significant for girls and women. This is true not only because education is an entry point to other opportuni ties, but also because the educational achievements of women can have ripple effects within the family and across generations. Investing in girls’ education is one of the most effective ways to reduce poverty.Investments in secondary school education for girls especially yield high dividends. Girls who have been educated are likely to marry later and to have smaller and healthier families. Educated women can recognize the importance of health care and know how to seek it for themselves and their children. Education helps girls and women to know their human rights and to gain confidence to claim them (Thompson, 2004). In addition to this, the education of parents is linked to their children’s educational attainment, and the mother’s education is usually more influential than the father’s.An educated mother’s greater influence in household negotiations may allow her to secure more resources for her children. Educated mothers are more likely to be in the labour force, allowing them to pay some of the costs of schooling, and may be more aware of returns to schooling. And educated mothers, averaging fewer children, can concentrate more attention on each child. Besides having fewer children, mothers with schooling are less likely to have mistimed or unintended births.This has implications for schooling, because poor parents must choose which of their children to educate (ibid). Closing the gender gap in education is a development priority. The 1994 Cairo Consensus recognised education especially for women, as a force for social and economic development. Universal completion of primary education was set as a 20- year goal, as was wider access to secondary and higher education among girls and women. Closing the gender gap in education by 2015 is also one of the benchmarks for the Millennium Development Goals.Therefore it must be stated that once women are educated, they are able to participate effectively in economic development (Vos senberg, 2013). Secondly there is the area of health, avoidable female deaths in the developing countries are strongly associated with health care and nutrition failures, whereas avoidable male mortality is associated more with behavioural occupational hazards that are less susceptible to prevention within the health sector, such as exposure to toxins, smoking, drug and alcohol use, violence and accidents.The low marginal costs of preventing women’s disability, illness, and premature death through family planning, nutritional supplementation, community based primary health care and safe mother hood programs (including safe abortion) argue for expanding such programmes in all countries especially in high mortality, high fertility settings. Health services that integrate nutrition training and supplementation, family planning, maternal and childcare and primary health care are the most effective in reaching women because they address a wide spectrum of women’s needs and responsibilities and save them time.In some settings the training of female health personnel may be particularly important, and combining care for women and children can help overcome some of the permission barriers that inhibit women from seeking health care. Ensuring that women have access to quality health care would enable them to effectively participate in economic development (World Bank, 1994). Thirdly there is the area of wage labour, unlike the strategies in education and health, those for increasing the participation rates of women and reducing wage differences between men and women are less proven.The main strategies here include increasing the productivity of women, reducing the constraints women face while participating in the labour market and improving the efficiency of the labour market. Providing childcare can reduce the household constraints that working women face, particularly in urban areas where the extended family often is not available to help. With broader c hildcare facilities available, women may not need to compromise on the type of jobs they accept. This would begin to bridge the male-female differences in earnings that cannot be attributed to human capital differences.For example the community childcare project in Colombia provides for the nutrition, health, and early-childhood development needs of children aged 2 through 6 in low income urban communities. Community mothers chosen by parents, care for about fifteen children each in their homes. The service support component of the project provides training to the community mothers and helps upgrade their homes to reach minimum standards for providing childcare. It increases the productive potential of mothers by offering alternative childcare arrangements, but its cost-effectiveness has yet to be evaluated (ibid).Removing policies of segregation and discrimination to promote access to jobs and making information available to lower the search costs associated with finding a job are other strategies. For instance the employment and training project in Turkey incorporates some of these actions, but it is too recent to provide insights about their effectiveness. In the ongoing projects in Turkey and Hungary, youth and adult counselling systems and career awareness are intended to be gender neutral.This is to ensure gender neutrality in job vacancies, the abolition of gender preferences can be specified as a project goal, as in the Turkey employment project. In countries where there is gender segregation, training projects for women could be designed to be more gender sensitive and address segregation issues. And where equal employment laws exist, countries can be encouraged to enforce them more rigorously. This would in turn ensure that more and more women are able to participate in economic development (Rakodi, 2005). The fourth area has to do with agriculture and natural resource management.The many responsibilities of rural women can impose time and energy con straints on their participation in programs designed to increase their incomes. Part of the strategy, therefore is to increase their productivity in existing tasks. However, given the option, many women want to escape the drudgery of many of these activities, highlighting the importance of increasing women’s options in agriculture and in home production. Many projects of the World Bank and other agencies include three basic interventions to improve the delivery of extension services to rural women.One is to improve the delivery of appropriate extension messages to women as a separate clientele. The second is to increase the number of female agents and supervisors in the extension system or to separate facilities, transportation, and other resources for extension women farmers. Delivering appropriate extension messages to women may entail revising the content and orientation of extension in order to address women farmers’ needs (Farnworth amp; Munachoga, 2010). Furtherm ore, women bear the burden of environmental degradation, as they have to trek long distances to fetch fuel wood and water.Natural resource management projects and policy oriented studies need to fully evaluate the costs and adverse externalities of environmental damage by including the direct and indirect costs to women’s activities. Deforestation, for example impose both direct and opportunity costs on women. Direct costs result when fuel wood resources are depleted (and must be purchased) and indirect costs occur when women have to walk long distances to obtain fuel wood. When they can be trained to contribute to environmental conservation.Such training in research and analysis of environmental problems and their causes and consequences can equip women to participate effectively in decision making on issues relating to environmental policy. Technology transfer if appropriately designed and adapted, could lead to more efficient use of resources, yield significant environment al benefits and enhance women’s productivity to use resources more sustainably (Rakodi, 2005). Natural resources management projects need to identify and consult women’s groups in order to ensure environmental conservation and sustainable management.Failure to identify and acknowledge the role of women in environmental processes can result in inappropriate interventions and jeopardize the success of environmental projects. Wherever women play a role in influencing policymaking on environment, investigators could document and learn from experience. Women’s groups and environmental NGOs can also play an important role (ibid). Lastly there is the area of financial services, high transaction costs, and high perceived risks of default, lack of collateral and social resistance commonly bar women’s access to credit.One way to reduce transaction costs is group lending, in which members accept joint liability for loans this relieves the lender of the costly proces s of checking the creditworthiness of individual borrowers and lowers the administrative costs per loan, which is particularly important if the average loan is very small. The groups take over many of the screening, incentive and enforcement functions normally left to banking staff. Group lending also spares borrowers elaborate application procedures, transportation costs, and the need for collateral.Other techniques for lowering transactions include inexpensive and mobile offices, hiring of staff from client communities, and standardized and decentralized procedures for lending. Group lending also lowers the risk of default. The combination of peer pressure and cooperative gained from participation in a group has proved to be an effective motivator for repayment in many different countries and settings worldwide (Vossenberg, 2013). Lack of collateral is a pervasive problem for the poor, and particularly for women who rarely have title to significant assets.Joint liability groups re place collateral with a collective guarantee in many programs. Providing access to financial services is necessary but not sufficient. Women who have never used a bank must be taught how to do so. Training and confidence building are especially important for women, who are likely to have less formal education and less experience with formal organizations and procedures. Alongside financial services, it is imperative to equip women with training in small enterprise, entrepreneurship and management, how to begin and successfully sustain an enterprise.When women have access to financial services, they will be better equipped to participate effectively in economic development (World Bank, 1994). In conclusion, this essay has discussed various ways and means of enhancing women’s participation in economic development. The first one being education, which has been identified as being the most important, this is because education gives women power, self confidence and the knowledge t hat can equip them to participate fully in economic development. The second one is health, access to good quality health enables women to effectively participate in economic growth.The third, point has to do with wage labour, there is need for more and more women to be incorporated into wage labour, this would ensure that women start getting a stable salary which would help them to have disposable income that they can invest in businesses, and eventually they would be able to participate in economic development. The last two points that have been discussed are agriculture and natural resource management and financial resources. When women are properly trained in the area of agriculture and finances, they are better able to participate in economic development.

How to Find the Mean of a Set of Numbers Formula and Examples

How to Find the Mean of a Set of Numbers Formula and Examples SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Are you taking the SAT or ACT and want to make sure you know how to work with data sets? Or maybe you’re looking to refresh your memory for a high school or college math class. Whatever the case, it’s important you know how to find the mean of a data set. We'll explain what the mean is used for in math, how to calculate the mean, and what problems about the mean can look like. What Is a Mean and What Is It Used For? The mean, or arithmetic mean, is the average value of a set of numbers. More specifically, it's the measure of a "central" or typical tendency in a given set of data. Mean- often simply called the "average"- is a term used in statistics and data analysis. In addition, it's not unusual to hear the words "mean" or "average" used with the terms "mode," "median," and "range," which are other methods of calculating the patterns and common values in data sets. Briefly, here are the definitions of these terms: Mode- the value that appears most frequently in a data set Median- the middle value of a data set (when arranged from lowest value to highest) Range- the difference between the highest and smallest values in a data set So what is the purpose of the mean exactly? If you have a data set with a wide range of numbers, knowing the mean can give you a general sense of how these numbers could essentially be put together into a single representative value. For example, if you’re a high school student getting ready to take the SAT, you might be interested to know the current mean SAT score. Knowing the mean score gives you a rough idea of how most students taking the SAT tend to score on it. How to Find the Mean: Overview To find the arithmetic mean of a data set, all you need to do is add up all the numbers in the data set and then divide the sum by the total number of values. Let’s look at an example. Say you’re given the following set of data: $$6, 10, 3, 27, 19, 2, 5, 14$$ To find the mean, you’ll first need to add up all the values in the data set like this: $$6 + 10 + 3 + 27 + 19 + 2 + 5 + 14$$ Note that you don’t need to rearrange the values here (though you may if you wish to) and can simply add them in the order in which they’ve been presented to you. Next, write down the sum of all the values: $$6 + 10 + 3 + 27 + 19 + 2 + 5 + 14 = \bo86$$ The last step is to take this sum (86) and divide it by the number of values in the data set. Because there are eight different values (6, 10, 3, 27, 19, 2, 5, 14), we'll be dividing 86 by 8: $$86 / 8 = 10.75$$ The mean, or average, for this set of data is 10.75. How to Calculate a Mean: Practice Questions Now that you know how to find the average- in other words,how to calculate the mean of a given set of data- it’s time to test what you’ve learned. In this section, we'll give you four math questions that involve finding or using the mean. The first two questions are our own, whereas the second two are official SAT/ACT questions; as such, these two will require a little bit more thought. Scroll past the questions for the answers and answer explanations. Practice Question 1 Find the mean of the following set of numbers: 5, 26, 9, 14, 49, 31, 109, 5. Practice Question 2 You are given the following list of numbers: 4, 4, 2, , 6, $X$, 1, 3, 2. The arithmetic mean is 4. What is the value of $X$? Practice Question 3 The list of numbers 41, 35, 30, $X, Y$, 15 has a median of 25. The mode of the list of numbers is 15. To the nearest whole number, what is the mean of the list? 20 25 26 27 30 Source: 2018-19 Official ACT Practice Test Practice Question 4 At a primate reserve, the mean age of all the male primates is 15 years, and the mean age of all female primates is 19 years. Which of the following must be true about the mean age $m$ of the combined group of male and female primates at the primate reserve? $m = 17$ $m 17$ $m 17$ $15 m 19$ Source: The College Board How to Find the Average: Answers + Explanations Once you’vetried out the four practice questions above, it’s time to compare your answers and see whether you understand not just how to find the mean of data but also how to use what you know about the mean to more effectively approach any math questions that deal with averages. Here are the answers to the four practice questions above: Practice Question 1: 31 Practice Question 2: 3 Practice Question 3: C. 26 Practice Question 4: D. $15 m 19$ Keep reading to see the answer explanation for each question. Practice Question 1 Answer Explanation Find the mean of the following set of numbers: 5, 26, 9, 14, 49, 31, 109, 5. This is a straightforward question that simply asks you to calculate the arithmetic mean of a given data set. First, add up all the numbers in the data set (remember that you don’t need toarrangethem in order from lowest to highest- only do this if you’re trying to find the median): $$5 + 26 + 9 + 14 + 49 + 31 + 109 + 5 = \bo248$$ Next, take this sum and divide it by the number of values in the data set.Here, there are eight total values, so we'll divide 248 by 8: $$248 / 8 = 31$$ The mean and correct answer is 31. Practice Question 2 Answer Explanation You are given the following list of numbers: 4, 4, 2, , 6, $X$, 1, 3, 2. The arithmetic mean is 4. What is the value of $X$? For this question, you’re essentially working backward: you already know the mean and now must use this knowledge to help you solve for the missing value, $X$, in the data set. Recall that to find the mean, you add up all the numbers in a set and then divide the sum by the total number of values. Since we know the mean is 4, we’ll start by multiplying 4 by the number of values (there are nine separate numbers here, including $X$): $$4 * 9 = 36$$ This gives us the sum of the data set (36). Now, the question becomes an algebra problem, in which all we need to do is simplify and solve for $X$: $$4 + 4 + 2 + + 6 + X + 1 + 3 + 2 = 36$$ $$33 + X = 36$$ $$X = 3$$ The correct answer is 3. Practice makes perfect! Practice Question 3 Answer Explanation The list of numbers 41, 35, 30, $X, Y$, 15 has a median of 25. The mode of the list of numbers is 15. To the nearest whole number, what is the mean of the list? 20 25 26 27 30 This tricky-looking math problem comes from an official ACT practice test, so you can expect it to be a little less direct than your typical arithmetic mean problem. Here, we’re given a data set with two unknown values: 41, 35, 30, $X, Y$, 15 We’re also given two critical pieces of information: The mode is 15 The median is 25 To solve for the mean of this data set, we will need to use all the information we’ve been given and will also need to know what the mode and median are. As a reminder, the mode is the value that appears most frequently in a data set, while the median is the middle value in a data set (when all values have been arranged from lowest to highest). Since the mode is 15, this must mean that the value 15 appears at least twice in the data set (in other words, more times than any other value appears). As a result, we can say replace either $X$ or $Y$ with 15: $$41, 35, 30, X, 15, 15$$ We’re also told that the median is 25. To find the median, you must first rearrangethe data set in order from lowest value to highest value. Sincethe median is more than 15 but less than 30, we should put $\bi X$ between these two values. Here’s what we get when we rearrange our values from lowest to highest: $$15, 15, X, 30, 35, 41$$ There are six values in total, (including $X$) meaning that the median will be the number exactly halfway between the third and fourth values in the data set.In short,25 (the median) must come halfway between $X$ and 30. This means that $X$ must equal 20, since that would put it 5 away from 20 and 5 away from 30 (or halfway between the two values). We now have a complete data set with no unknown values: $$15, 15, 20, 30, 35, 41$$ All we have to do now is use these values to solve for the mean. Start by adding them all up: $$15 + 15 + 20 + 30 + 35 + 41 = 156$$ Finally, divide the sum by the number of values in the data set (that’s six): $$156 / 6 = 26$$ The correct answer is C. 26. Practice Question 4 Answer Explanation At a primate reserve, the mean age of all the male primates is 15 years, and the mean age of all female primates is 19 years. Which of the following must be true about the mean age $m$ of the combined group of male and female primates at the primate reserve? $m = 17$ $m 17$ $m 17$ $15 m 19$ This practice problem is an official SAT Math practice question from the College Board website. For this math question, you’re not expected to solve for the mean but must instead use what you know about two means to explain what the mean of the larger group could be. Specifically, we're being asked how we can use these two means to express, in algebraic terms, the mean age ($\bi m$) forbothmale and female primates. Here’s what we know: first, the mean age of all male primates is 15 years. Secondly, the mean age of all female primates is 19 years.This means that, in general,the female primates are older than the male primates. Since the mean age for male primates (15) is lower than that for female primates (19), we know that the mean age for both groups cannot logically exceed 19 years. Similarly, because the mean age for female primates is greater than that for male primates, we know that the mean age for both cannot logically fall below 15 years. We are therefore left with the understanding that the mean age for the male and female primates together must be greater than 15 years (the mean age of the males) but also less than 19 years (the mean age of the females). This rationale can be written as the following inequality: $$15 m 19$$ The correct answer is D. 15 $\bi m$ 19. What’s Next? Tolearn even more about data sets,look at our guide to the best strategies for mean, median, and mode on SAT Math. Taking the SAT or ACT soon? Then you'll definitely want to know what kind of math you're going to be tested on. Check out our in-depth guides to the SAT Math section and the ACT Math sectionto get started. What are the most important math formulas to know for the SAT and ACT?Get an overview of the 28 critical SAT formulas and the 31 critical ACT formulasyou should know.

Writing Prompts 101

Writing Prompts 101 Writing Prompts 101 Writing Prompts 101 By Simon Kewin Even if you are not a professional writer you probably already heard about writing prompts. They represent a very effective tool for any writing project, so its a good idea to know how to use them. What Is A Writing Prompt? If you’re a fiction writer, you may want to consider using writing prompts to kick-start your creativity. A writing prompt is simply a topic around which you start jotting down ideas. The prompt could be a single word, a short phrase, a complete paragraph or even a picture, with the idea being to give you something to focus upon as you write. You may stick very closely to the original prompt or you may wander off at a tangent. You may just come up with rough, disjointed notes or you may end up with something more polished and complete, a scene or even a complete story. The point is to simply start writing without being held back by any inhibitions or doubts. Here are four good reasons for writing to prompts : Sometimes it’s hard to start writing when faced with a blank page. Focusing on an unrelated prompt for a while helps get the creative juices flowing. If you write for just ten minutes on a prompt, you should then find it easier to return to the piece you intended to write. You may also find that if you stop trying to think so hard about what you wanted to write and switch you attention to the prompt instead, the words and ideas for your original piece start to come to you after all. The things you write in response to a prompt may also end up as worthwhile material in their own right. The prompt may give you ideas from which a complete story grows or you may get fresh ideas for another piece you are already working on. It’s often surprising how much material you come up with once you start. Writing to a prompt regularly helps to get you into the habit of writing. This can act as a sort of exercise regime, helping to build up your â€Å"muscles† so that you start to find it easier and easier to write for longer and longer. Prompts can be a great way to get involved in a writing community. Sometimes writing groups offer a prompt for everyone to write about, with the intention being for everyone to come up with something they can then share. This can be a source of great encouragement, although knowing that others will read what you have written can also inhibit your creativity. Examples of Writing Prompts The following are twenty writing prompts that you could use to spark your imagination. If you want to use one, don’t worry about where the ideas take you or whether what you’ve written is â€Å"good†. The point is just to get into the flow of writing. You can come back later and polish if you wish to. It was the first snowfall of the year. He hadn’t seen her since the day they left High School. The city burned, fire lighting up the night sky. Silk. She studied her face in the mirror. The smell of freshly-cut grass. They came back every year to lay flowers at the spot. The streets were deserted. Where was everyone? Where had they all gone? This time her boss had gone too far. Red eyes. Stars blazed in the night sky. He woke to birdsong. ‘Shh! Hear that?’ ‘I didn’t hear anything.’ He’d always hated speaking in public. She woke, shivering, in the dark of the night. The garden was overgrown now. He’d never noticed a door there before. She’d have to hitch a ride home. ‘I told him not to come back too!’ His feet were already numb. He should have listened. Where To Find Writing Prompts Online The internet is a wonderful source of writing prompts. There are sites dedicated to providing them which a quick search will turn up. Examples include : CreativeWritingPrompts.com WritersDigest.com Creative-Writing-Solutions.com Perhaps even more valuable are the lists compiled by authors and websites. Here are some suggestions: 200+ Writing Prompts to Inspire You There are numerous blogs that offer a regular writing prompt to inspire you and where you can, if you wish, post what you’ve written. Examples include : SundayScribblings.blogspot.com DragonWritingPrompts.blogspot.com There are also many other sites that can, inadvertently, provide a rich seam of material for writing prompts – for example news sites with their intriguing headlines or pictorial sites such as Flickr.com that give you access to a vast range of photographs that can prompt your writing. If you’re on Twitter, there are users you can follow to receive a stream of prompts, for example : twitter.com/writingprompt twitter.com/NoTelling twitter.com/writingink Another idea is just to keep an eye on all the tweets being written by people all over the world, some of which can, inadvertently, be used as writing prompts. How To Make Your Own Writing Prompts You can find ideas for writing prompts of your own from all sorts of places : snatches of overheard conversation, headlines, signs, words picked from a book and so on. Get used to keeping an eye out for words and phrases that fire your imagination, jot them down and use them as writing prompts to spark your creativity. You never know where they might take you. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Writing Basics category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:50 Incorrect Pronunciations That You Should AvoidHow to Punctuate with â€Å"However†Capitalizing Titles of People and Groups

Answer the following questions#2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Answer the following questions#2 - Essay Example The model gives exact video guidelines that can be easier to understand for students, since they can see organs that are not seen during actual conversations, as these organs move inside the mouth. The model also provides examples of words for practice pronunciation, where learners can feel how these organs work together in providing a specific sound(s) for a specific letter. Phonetics_Focus/. It has many applications that help students learn the English language, such as the Phonemic Reader. It shows the actual sounds of the consonants and vowels. It can guide students in seeing each letter, not just physically, but also audio-visually, in a phonemic way. The application also offers several games, such as the Phonemic Pelmanism. It asks students to match the phonetic spelling with the real spelling. The game helps readers practice what they know about phonemics already. There are also plenty of mobile applications that help children learn sounds and letters. These applications test learning too, which provides automatic feedback and positive reinforcement once kids learn them. I can use them to help students reinforce learning in class by doing tasks that they can do at home at their own pace and time. Information gap tasks are done orally by asking learners to determine differences between pictures, ordering sentences in stories, and restoring missing portions of maps and charts. I can use this game to help learners think about the uses of words in context. The advantages of the task are contextual learning of language and interactive learning. The disadvantages are possible lack of writing reinforcement and some students with poor vocabulary will struggle with the tasks. An example of the task is making an appointment game. I can use this game to help young learners understand the concept of time and time management. The advantages of the task are helping students understand the meaning of words in actual settings and

How Attitudes Influence an Organization Research Paper

How Attitudes Influence an Organization - Research Paper Example The importance of the attitudes is no different in the corporate world as well. We can observe in the job advertisement placed by the organizations in which they explicitly mention the importance of a â€Å"can do attitude† in the applicant. Therefore, it is important to understand why organizations need individuals with a positive attitude. Importance of Attitude The increasing competition within the corporate world has compelled organizations to be extremely dynamic in their approach. The need to adjust according to the demands of the market and customers and for this they need employees who have a positive and flexible nature to adjust immediately to the required changes. The increased number of companies has also not helped the cause for many organizations as it stiffened the competition in the market. In the situation where organizations needs to be extremely innovative in their business approach, require their employees to think out of the box. The creative thinking is o nly possible when an individual is trying to find a solution rather than just filling in the situation. ... ees are an integral part of any success that an organization achieves and hence it important for the companies to have employees who are always thinking of something new and innovative. Attitudes Influencing Organizations Generally Organizations perform their activity in a competitive commercial environment which is permanently changing, which forces them to constantly adapt to new conditions. In an organization, management is performed by people, through people. Essentially, the organizational transformation resides in a holistic approach, emphasizing the human dimension of the company, which simultaneously takes into account the changes for purposes on the whole, the structures, the culture and the strategy of the organization, based on new perceptions, ways of thinking and of behaving. The dynamic nature of the corporate world has increased the importance of evolving organizations. The rapid advancement in technology is also changing the way of business practices around the world. The employees, thus, needs to be extremely positive in their approach to accept these changes in the work environment. The competitive forces in the industries have somehow shortened the length of competitive advantage for the firms, as many other firms would master the art of producing it with some additional features that too in a very short span of time. The example of Smartphone is the perfect elaboration of the above discussion. In this situation, if employees resist changes in the organization, which is brought in it to move forward and compete in the industry, the organization is likely to fall out of the competition (Olatokun, Wole and Olalekan). The approach or attitude of the employees is thus of critical importance. Their attitude shapes the attitude of the organization as the

Foucault and kant Essay Example for Free

Foucault and kant Essay Both Kant and Foucault present a question of what is enlightenment? According to Immanuel Kant enlightenment was mans freedom from his â€Å"self-incurred immaturity†. Kant believes that all that is needed to reach enlightenment is freedom. Enlightenment could not be achieved by any one person, we have to do so as a community. Kant said that we should have the freedom to make public use of our reason in all situations. He also believed that revolution is a great way to remove oppressive government heads but it would not teach the community to think in a different way. Kant says that the matters of religion is the focal point of enlightenment. Thinking and acting freely is mans enlightenment and emerges us from our immaturity. Foucaults text is a reflection upon Kants views on â€Å"What is enlightenment? †. Foucault addresses many of the issues with Kants essay on â€Å"What is Enlightenment? † and says that is written in a world era to which no one belongs to. He says that enlightenment is an â€Å"exit† or a â€Å"way out†. Focault says that we have not yet reached enlightenment and that once we achieve this enlightenment there will be nowhere else to progress to and we will achieve our limit. I agree with Foucault over Kants view on enlightenment. I think as a whole we have not reached our enlightenment and I don’t think we will for a very long time. Although Kant said in order to reach enlightenment we have to do so as a community. We cannot do this because this is something that exceeds our limits as human beings.

Hamlet and The Lion King :: GCSE English Literature Coursework

Hamlet and The Lion King Many perceive The Lion King, Disney's most successful movie to date, as Disney's only original movie; the only movie not previously a fairy tale from one country or another. This, however, is not the case. While The Lion King seems not to be beased on a fairy tale, it is in fact strongly based on the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare. Disney writers cleverly conceal the basic character archetypes and simplified storyline in a children's tale of cute lions in Africa. To the seasoned reader, however, Hamlet comes screaming out of the screenplay as obviously as Hamlet performed onstage. The characters in The Lion King closely parallel Hamlet. Simba, the main character in The Lion King, embodies Hamlet, He is the son of the King and rightful heir to the throne. The King of the Pridelands, Mufasa, parallels Hamlet Senior, who is killed by the uncle figure. In The Lion King, the uncle is Scar, and in Hamlet, the uncle figure is Claudius. Laertes, the henchman and right-hand man of Claudius, becomes, in the movie, the Hyenas, Bansai, Shenzi, and Ed. The Hyenas collectively act as hero-worshippers to Scar, loyal subjects, and fellow doers-in-evil. They support Scar completely, just as Laertes supports Claudius. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are the comic reliefs of Hamlet, and in The Lion King, this role is fulfilled by Timon and Pumbaa, who are a meercat and warthog, respectively. Both sets compliment each other, complete each other's sentences, act as caretakers to Hamlet/Simba, and are comical to the point of being farcical. The role of Horatio, Hamlet's right-hand man, is fulfilled in The Lion King by Nala. Nala concentrates on the aspect that Simba is the rightful King and that it is his responsibility to ascend to the throne. She is his best friend and someone whom he trusts. Just as Horatio loyally follows Hamlet, Nala is completely loyal to Simba. Not only are there ties of friendship, but there is also an element of respect and reverence in both friendships. Horatio and Nala both know that they are friends and loyal followers of the rightful king. In The Lion King, the plot mirrors the plot of Hamlet as well. In the very beginning, Hamlet Senior is poisoned by Claudius, who then ascends to the throne and marries Hamlet's mother Gertrude. Similarly, Mufasa is thrown to his death by Scar, who goes on to become King of the Pridelands and leader of the pack, thus "marrying" Simba's mother, Sarobi.

Ib Bio Experiment on Effect of Substrate Conc on Enzyme Activity

Practical Assessment 2 – The effect of substrate concentration on the rate of enzyme activity of Catalase Aim To investigate the effect of substrate concentration (manipulated by increasing concentration of hydrogen peroxide) on the rate of enzyme activity of catalase, produced by liver cells, on the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. Introduction Enzymes are biological catalysts that increase the rates of reactions.In an enzyme-catalyzed reaction, the substrate binds to the active site and forms enzyme-substrate complex with the enzyme through the lock and key method (where the lock represents the enzyme and the key represents the substrate). The enzyme then breaks the bonds in the substrate. The product of the reaction then leaves the enzyme, which remains unchanged after the reaction. Without enzymes, many essential processes, such as digestion, would occur too slowly for life to continue.Catalase is an enzyme produced by our liver cells to break down hydrogen peroxide â⠂¬â€œ a common end product of metabolism, but highly toxic to tissues if accumulated in the body – into water and oxygen. The equation of the reaction is as follows: 2 H2O2 O2 + 2 H2O Catalase Catalase In this experiment, we obtain 6% hydrogen peroxide solution from a pharmacy and extract equal concentrations of catalase from liver cells.Filter paper discs are dipped into the catalase solution before they are submerged in hydrogen peroxide solution. The oxygen produced from the enzyme reaction will form on the discs and cause the disc to be buoyant enough to float upwards. We can investigate the effects of substrate concentration on the rate of reaction by catalase by using different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide solution, and measuring the rate of reaction by measuring time taken for the disc to float to the surface when sufficient oxygen is produced. HypothesisThe hypothesis for this experiment is that the rate of reaction will increase with the increase of hydrogen p eroxide concentration, if the other factors of enzyme activity (such as temperature, pH and enzyme concentration) are kept constant. However, the rate of reaction will stop increasing with hydrogen peroxide concentration at a point where the enzyme concentration becomes a limiting factor. At high substrate concentrations, most of the active sites available are occupied since they are saturated with substrate molecules at any given time.Hence, a further increase in substrate concentration will not cause the rate of decomposition of hydrogen peroxide to increase. As such, the expected graph from this experiment is as follows: Graph 1: Expected graph of rate of reaction against concentration of substance Variables Dependent variable: Rate of enzyme activity of catalase in terms of time taken for the disk to float to the surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution when sufficient oxygen is produced. * Once the filter paper disc has reached the bottom of the test tube, the stopwatch is sta rted.The stopwatch is stopped once the disc has reached the surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution. The recorded timing indicates the amount of time taken for the disk to float to the surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution. Independent variable: Concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution. * Add different volumes of water to the different volumes of 6 % hydrogen peroxide solution. Controlled variable(s): 1. Enzyme concentration * We are provided with homogenous liquid liver solution. Hence, the concentration of catalase is constant throughout the liquid liver solution. . Volume of hydrogen peroxide solution * The volume of hydrogen peroxide solution in each test tube is 5cm3. Controlling the volume of hydrogen peroxide solutions ensures that the same amount of hydrogen peroxide molecules (substrates) is available for reaction in the test tube. 3. Size of test tubes * The test tubes used each time must be of the same size, length and volume. This is to ensure that the distance the filter paper disc has to travel (between the bottom of the test tube to the surface) is the same for each time. 4. Filter paper disc The filter paper discs should be of the same diameter and of the same thickness. This is to ensure that the same amount of oxygen gas is required to lift it to the surface each time thereby enabling us to determine the time taken for it to do so. 5. Temperature * Enzyme activity is affected by temperature. The experiment is carried out in room temperature (25  °C), which is assumed to remain constant throughout the duration of the experiment. Apparatus * Digital stop watch, accurate to 0. 01 s * 6 Test tubes (Same size and length) * 6 Test tube holders * Wooden stick * 500 cm3 beaker 6 measuring cylinders Materials * 6 % hydrogen peroxide solution provided by teacher * Homogenous liquid liver solution provided by teacher * 30 Filter paper discs provided by teacher * Distilled water Procedure 1. 0. 75 % hydrogen peroxide solution is prepared by me asuring 3. 00 cm3 of 6 % hydrogen peroxide using a measuring cylinder and then diluting it with 21. 00 cm3 of distilled water. 1. 50 %, 3. 00 %, 4. 50 % and 6. 00 % hydrogen peroxide solutions are prepared using the same method with corresponding volumes of 6 % hydrogen peroxide and water as shown in the table below.Concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution/ %( ± 0. 02)| Volume of 6 % hydrogen peroxide/ cm3( ± 0. 01)| Volume of water added/ cm3( ± 0. 01)| 0. 75%| 3. 00| | | 21. 00| 1. 50%| 6. 00| 18. 00| 3. 00%| 12. 00| 12. 00| 4. 50%| 18. 00| 6. 00| 6. 00%| 24. 00| 0. 00| Table 1: Dilution table for preparing different concentrations of hydrogen peroxide solutions The prepared hydrogen peroxide solutions are poured into test tubes. Each test tube should contain 5 cm3 of the solution. The test tubes with their olutions are placed in the test tube holder, labelled with the concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution that they contain. 2. Obtain homogenous liver liquid from te acher and add 8 cm3 of liver liquid into each petri dish to be used in the experiment. (5 petri dishes) 3. A filter paper disc is soaked with liver liquid in each petri dish. 4. A filter paper disc is removed from petri dish and pushed to the bottom of a test tube with 0. 75 % hydrogen peroxide solution using a wooden stick. 5. The stopwatch is started immediately when the filter paper disc touches the bottom of the test tube. . The stop watch is stopped once the filter paper disc reaches the surface. The time taken for the filter paper disc to float to the surface is recorded. 7. Steps 3 – 6 are repeated a further 5 times, using other new 0. 75 % hydrogen peroxide solutions. 8. The average of the 6 readings for each hydrogen peroxide concentration is calculated and recorded. The rate of reaction is calculated by the following formula: Rate of reaction = 1/Average time taken for filter paper disc to reach the surface of the hydrogen peroxide solution from the bottom 9.Steps 3 -7 are repeated with 1. 50 %, 3. 00 %, 4. 50 % and 6. 00 % hydrogen peroxide solutions 6 times each. Data table | Timing for each run conducted/s| Concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide solution/%| 1| 2| 3| 4| 5| 6| Average timing for each concentration Hydrogen Peroxide solution/s| Rate of reaction for each concentration Hydrogen Peroxide solution/s| 0. 75%| | | | | | | | | 1. 50%| | | | | | | | | 3. 00%| | | | | | | | | 4. 50%| | | | | | | | | 6. 00%| | | | | | | | |

Sociology: Midterm Exam, Explain the Effects of Sociology

Each human is born into differing sets of cultural and sociological circumstances that make each individual differ from one another in various ways. Culture would be classified as the moral standards, knowledge, beliefs, customs, and whatever other habits man can and will create in a society. This â€Å"Culture† affects each individual passively, or unintentionally, but yet very effectively. Corresponding to this would be the society that an individual is born into. Differing cultures create Societies; societies are made up of cultural relations with others of the same and agreeing culture. Cultures are separated out into â€Å"social classes† naturally because of major differences in cultural habits, beliefs, customs, etc. Social classes are differing cultures: cultures that cannot easily coincide. A person might be born into the American culture, usually referred to as â€Å"western culture†, and thus he would be immediately different from those of an â€Å"eastern culture†, say those of Iraq or Iran. The differing cultures are obviously based on the differing base of beliefs, the different customs, habits, moral standards, and much, much more! Then there are sociological differences that we refer to as social class. While there is much of the western culture throughout the world, there are even widely differing cultures within the culture itself. These are what form society and social classes. While there is one culture on the east coast of the United States, you will find that the culture on the west coast is completely separate and distinct. One of the more distinct examples that can be given is of those from the south versus those from elsewhere in the United States. Feature Article –  Sociology Test Because of the culture that children are born into, they are immediately immersed in a society that would demand respect and modesty in everyday living. It can be noted that the cultural standard in the southern United States is made up of higher moral standards than other states. Morals are one of the factors that make a culture differ from another. Just by sheer consequence, this culture creates a society that is considerably higher than those surrounding. In history it can be noted that men from the south tended to be more upper class citizens having those of a differing culture under them as working class individuals. African Americans are from a differing culture, which in turn makes the society that they create clash with the society of other cultures. You will find many different social classes that are together in one culture. For instance, Bill Gates would be part of a social class that some farmer from Iowa would not be able to relate to. Generally there are 4 major social classes. These would be the Upper Class (a small percentage), the Middle Class, the Working Class (constituting of most people), and the Lower Class. As well as any average person from the rural town life would not be of the same social class as the president of the United States. A person can be born into a certain social class, but they can also work to attain a higher social class from the point in which they have begun. For the ease of consideration we will chose someone from rural farm country in either Illinois or Iowa; These people are born to their parents into the working class and or lower class that they are part of. There have been people that have risen from the Lower Class up to the position of President, like our current president Mr. Barak Obama. Through natural means, and providential circumstances he was able to get an education and work his way up through the classes, and after many years of work, sits as the current President. Education is a part of each individual’s social class. One of the major factors that separate the Working Class from the Middle Class is their education. People that have taken the time, money and energy to get an education and secure a degree or certificate in some specific area, are of a higher class and social status than those that are just working to provide for themselves in a workforce where no degree is needed. Culture is similar to Social class in that each individual is born into them without any choice, and that they are passively trained to be part of that class. But, a culture is the influence of certain standards, morals, habits, and such that will influence the person, whereas a society is only made up of relationships and certain goals and objectives. By joining together into a social class, the society can achieve what they would not be able to on an individual basis. The same is true for a culture, but to a lesser degree because there are many more cultures than there are social classes. Another term that can be used to describe culture would be: learned behavior patterns. In conclusion, there are many cultures and many social standards throughout the world that affect every person either in a negative or a positive way. Every individual has the influence of their culture and social class on them, to the point that they make distinctions about whom they will associate with and who they are able to have deep or shallow relationships. These are some of the factors that will limit the amount of people that a person is â€Å"able† to marry. The person under consideration must be of a certain culture, in most cases, as well as be of an equal or greater social class. In my opinion, it is the wide distances between these social classes and foreign cultures that cause the many clashes in civilization, causing war and riots among lower people. If people were able to over-come these Sociological differences, then all men would be able to live more peaceably together.

Рitlers youth Essays

Ð  itlers youth Essays Ð  itlers youth Essay Ð  itlers youth Essay Hitler youth was formed In 1920 by Hitler. One of the main youngster movements and it helped Hitler to grow extremely fast and to grow his power. Hitlers youth was just like a school and it was extremely important and mostly everybody had to attend to it. Hitlers youth did millions of group activities so it could train team work. Boys joined Hitlers youth at the age of 10. Many kids found it very fascinating and they thought of it like It was a lot of fun especially when they got to go out for all of those long walks, even though it damaged their feet. They loved training shooting. All of this was done to practice for the army and to make kids like army from very early age. it made all the boys who joined it very healthy and fit. The Hitler Youth grew from a small group from a handful boys to one of the most important youth groups in Europe. No other group so comprehensively succeeded in their settled point. They were the ones to toughen the young of Germany and to prepare them for war. Actually to make it all work even better they had more than 1 school for boys and the difference was only in ages: one of them was for boys from 10 to 13 years old and it was named Deutsches Jugenvolk, and the other one, Hitler Jugend, was for boys from 13 to 18 years old. Boys have also done team activities like bayonet drill, grenade throwing, trenching digging, outside cooking and reading maps what was extremely useful and trained boys morally and intellectually. By doing all of that, boys were well prepared for the strong army of loyal supporters that would simply help Hitler to achieve his foreign policy aims by obeying all his orders. Of course the girls who joined the Hitlers youth had absolutely different teamwork experience. Girls who were aged form 10 to 14 years old joined Jungmadelbund and girl who were older than 14 years old were transferred to Bund Deutscher Madel. They were training how to be great mothers and housewives. Girls as boys also had to complete the 8 month of farm service called Landjahr. Girls were told they had to make babies and look after their husbands, but they were not allowed to do any hard jobs and to work. Hitler wanted to get the German population to grow to one of the biggest so that he could take the space that Russia owned and so that he could destroy Versailles. Hitlers youth was a strict organisation that controlled the discipline of children and that helped Germany to grow its population. It also taught boys that the most important thing was is loyalty and obedience and that Hitler was the greatest person in this world and that he should be worshiped as God him self. This was another reason to persuade the youth into obeying anything Hitler said and that he was more important then the parents. To accomplish all of that, kids faced a grand deal of propaganda to make them into loyal citizens. Citizens also had compulsory activities to attend to like singing songs, camping were created to straighten Nationalism and to warship Hitler and the Nazis.

Definition and Examples of Heuristics in Composition

Definition and Examples of Heuristics in Composition In rhetoric and composition studies, a heuristic is a strategy or set of strategies for exploring topics, constructing arguments, and discovering solutions to problems. Common discovery strategies include freewriting, listing, probing, brainstorming, clustering, and outlining. Other methods of discovery include research, the journalists questions, the interview, and the pentad. In Latin, the equivalent of heuristic is inventio, the first of the five canons of rhetoric. Etymology:Â  From the Greek, to find out. Examples and Observations [T]he heuristic function of discourse is that of discovery, whether of facts, insights, or even of self-awareness. The heuristic function of discourse is essential to the inventive processes, that is the ability to discover the means of expressing our thoughts and sentiments effectively to others.(James A. Herrick, The History and Theory of Rhetoric: An Introduction, 3rd ed. Pearson, 2005)A heuristic is a set of discovery procedures for systematic application or a set of topics for systematic consideration. Unlike the procedures in a set of instructions, the procedures of a heuristic do not need to be followed in any particular order, and there is no guarantee that using it will result in a single definitive explanation. A good heuristic draws on multiple theories rather than just one.(Christopher Eisenhart and Barbara Johnstone, Discourse Analysis and Rhetorical Studies. Rhetoric in Detail: Discourse Analyses of Rhetorical Talk and Text, ed. by B. Johnstone and C. Eisenhart. John Be njamins, 2008) Reconsideration of Aristotles notion of heuristic reveals both another dimension of classical invention and an important feature of Aristotles Rhetoric. Heuristic is not only an instrument for inventing techniques to articulate to others but is also a techne enabling the rhetor and audience to cocreate meaning.(Richard Leo Enos and Janice M. Lauer, The Meaning of Heuristic in Aristotles Rhetoric and Its Implications for Contemporary Rhetorical Theory. Landmark Essays on Aristotelian Rhetoric, ed. by Richard Leo Enos and Lois Peters Agnew. Lawrence Erlbaum, 1998) Teaching Heuristics [I]nstruction in heuristic strategies has been controversial. . . . Some have feared that heuristics will turn into rules or formulas, thereby overdetermining or mechanizing the rhetorical process. This danger was realized at times in rhetorical history when the arts of discourse were taught as inflexible steps for carrying out rhetorical acts rather than as arbitrary but effective guides. Another controversy has stemmed from false expectations about the efficacy of teaching heuristics as a panacea for all rhetorical problems. But they do not supply motivation or subject knowledge but rather depend upon them. Nor do they remedy grammatical problems or provide genre knowledge or syntactic fluency. Advocates of heuristics see them as part of a larger repertoire of rhetorical resources and argue that teaching heuristics shares with students insider knowledge of discourse strategies that can empower them in genuine, compelling rhetorical situations.(Janice M. Lauer, Heuristics. Encyclope dia of Rhetoric and Composition: Communication From Ancient Times to the Information Age, ed. by Theresa Enos. Routledge, 1996) Heuristic Procedures and Generative Rhetoric [H]euristic procedures can guide inquiry and stimulate memory and intuition. The imaginative act is not absolutely beyond the writers control; it can be nourished and encouraged.These generalizations about heuristics and the technical theory of art become clearer if we recall Francis Christensens generative rhetoric of the sentence, a technique that uses form to produce ideas. After a close examination of the practice of modern writers who have a knack for good proseHemingway, Steinbeck, Faulkner, and othersChristensen identified four principles operating in the production of what he called cumulative sentences. . . .Heuristic procedures enable the writer to bring principles such as these to bear in composing by translating them into questions or operations to be performed. If we were to invent a procedure based on these principles, it might look something like this: study what is being observed, write a base clause about it, and then try piling up at the end of the clause analogies, details, and qualities that serve to refine the original observation.(Richard E. Young, Concepts of Art and the Teaching of Writing. Landmark Essays on Rhetorical Invention in Writing, ed. by Richard E. Young and Yameng Liu. Hermagoras Press, 1994)

M5C Obstacles and Pitfalls to Success Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

M5C Obstacles and Pitfalls to Success - Essay Example More emphasis is put in the endeavor to attain and maintain a considerable health plan which is being inhibited by the massive heath costs and invariably rising insurance costs. Insurance costs are increasing at an alarming rate with many medical insurance pundits alleging that the high risks in the current heath status of many individuals are the contributing factor (Pauly, MacGuire & Barros, 2011). Several factors have been continuously discussed on their influence to the obstacles, pitfalls and barriers of a good health care. Significantly the status of the economy has a haphazard impact on the costs of insurance and the heath care in general. A conducive and better performing economy where virtually all levels of income to the citizens are high and the costs of living low will enhance the affordability of a successful health plan (Pauly, MacGuire & Barros, 2011). Moreover, inflation, continuously poses a big threat to the insurance and health costs. These prices are soaring high and high with the rise in inflation rates an indication of a poorly performing economy. A successful health plan needs stable and steady economic conditions which will allow the concerned parties to attain their esteemed goal (Pauly, MacGuire & Barros, 2011). As noted earlier the levels of income play a big hand in the accomplishment of a successful health plan. Evidently, this influence is demonstrated in the instance of increased propensity to save which enhances the availability of more funds to secure health services when one is rendered less productive or retires. In addition, high income illustrates a better level to afford insurance costs which with the increasing health risks, diseases and infections are continuously rising (Inhurst, 2009). Unemployment rates are another key factor influencing on the costs of health care. With high population being unemployment and rising dependency levels many insurance providers are finding it inevitable to raise their costs

Geico Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Geico - Case Study Example Such, each company must strive not only to attract talent, but also to retain them as well through a total rewards program. Traditionally, rewarding employees has been equated with pay. Today, it is no longer applicable and â€Å"the definition of rewards encompasses the overall value proposition that the employer offers to the employee. It’s a total package that includes compensation (comprising of base pay, short-term incentives and long-term incentives), benefits (including health, retirement and work/life benefits, which account for an increasing portion of the rewards package) and careers (including training and development, lateral moves,stretch assignments and career incentives)† (Morris, nd, pg 6). In the case of Geico (2012), it employed a six facet item as part of its Total Rewards program which include Health and Well-being, Building and Securing Your Financial Future, Time Off and Leave Programs, Family and Life Programs, Education and Development and Amenit ies and Perks. Many aspect of Geico’s total rewards are consistent or aligned with the lectures in the Chapter 2 of our textbook which are as follows; 1. Increased Flexibility Geico’s reward program is not only tied up with pay. ... This provides Geico greater latitude to address the needs of its employees that would not keep them but also to make them highly motivated to perform. 2. Improved?recruitment and?retention The range of Geiko’s total reward program is indicative that the company really intends to retain its employees. More especially is the emphasis on family and life programs which very few companies offer as part of its compensation package. This component of Geiko’s total reward program would also be very attractive if not hard to resist among prospective employees who values work-life balance (Guld, 2007). It would also serve as a retention tool among its employees who have families to attend. For Geiko’s part, it would retain its best talent and attract the best talent in the market because of its attractive total rewards program. 3. Reduced Labor Costs/Cost of Turnover Having a flexible reward system designed to retain its employees will have an effect on Geiko’s bott om line in terms of minimal attrition rate, reduced labor cost and low or no cost for turnovers. Opportunity costs associated with labor turnover such as the low learning curve of a new recruit, higher inefficiency and disrupted work will also be avoided. 4. Heightened Visibility in a Tight Labor market One of the big advantages of having a responsive reward program is that employees would not only stay longer in the company but are also motivated to perform. Highly motivated employees performance would resonate to the labor market that a particular company, such as Geiko is a good place to work thus becoming Geiko as a preferred place of work among the best talents in the labor market. 5. Enhanced Profitability All of the

Rhetorical analysis about the westboro church. the link to the article Essay

Rhetorical analysis about the westboro church. the link to the article is on the intructions - Essay Example Among the many freedoms that the American people enjoy, the freedom of speech was the first amendment made to the American constitution and was included in the bill of rights. It is the most fundamental freedom and given priority by the founding fathers to define the American spirit. However, expression of this right is dependent on the individual and the topic under discussion. Sensitive topics attract a lot of debate from different parties who may be in favour or against the ideas that one expresses. Moreover, it is necessary to realise that the universe is not homogenous in its views and, it is through this that the world grows (Werhan, 8). The expression of this freedom can lead to overexploitation, which is punishable by law in cases where the law refers to it as hate speech. In such cases, it leads to issuance of verdicts when expression of this freedom causes emotional or physical damage when directed to parties who may not be the right receivers of the blame or the doers of such an act. However, radical means have to be within the limits of the constitution if they are to be used to express freedom of speech. This will attract no punishment because this freedom is enshrined in the American constitution. This calls for consideration of the extent to which individuals can exercise their freedom of speech because of the many fatalities that have resulted due unnecessary blames and pressures exerted on an individual who is purported to go against moral standards. This piece of writing is addressed to learned individuals in the American society because this writer applies impartiality in addressing the freedom of expression. This is because the writer does not give limitations on exercise of their freedom of speech. He only exposes all sides of this freedom and gives the reader an opportunity to decide their stance. The general American population does not have adequate knowledge about the bill of rights.

Colgate Palmolive Industry Position

Colgate Palmolive Industry Position Colgate-Palmolive is recognized as the worlds leader in personal care sales which included oral hygiene products like toothbrushes and toothpastes. In 1991, its sales topped at $6 billion and profits at $2.76 billion as it cornered 43% of the worlds toothpaste market and 16% of the worlds toothbrush market. In the United States, the worlds largest market, Colgate-Palmolive holds the number one spot in toothbrush sales with a market share of 23%. From these statistics, one of Colgate-Palmolives main strengths is being the market leader in oral care products. Colgate-Palmolives extensive overseas reach is another main strength. Based on the data in the case study, Colgate-Palmolive introduced 275 new products worldwide and setup manufacturing facilities in China and Eastern Europe breaching the emerging economies of the 21st century. On top of that, international sales accounted for 64% of total sales and 67% of the total profits for Colgate-Palmolive. Colgate-Palmolive has an extensive Research and Development department boasting 170 employees worldwide. Though having a large RD department does not directly contribute to increased profits, Colgate-Palmolives history of innovation  [1]  in the toothbrush market is linked to its current position as the market leader in the toothbrush industry. Therefore Colgate-Palmolives strong commitment to innovation through investment in RD is a prominent strength. With an energetic and visionary leader like Reuben Mark at the helm of Colgate-Palmolive, the company has transformed itself into a lean and profitable machine, leading to increased profit margins and volume growth.  [2]  Clearly, having a visionary CEO is a strength. Colgate-Palmolives positioning strategy for its toothbrush line in food stores has aided in capturing their current dominant market share. Its in-store displays, combining toothbrushes with toothpaste packs and locating the Colgate-Palmolive line of toothbrushes in the middle of the stores shelves have contributed to this dominance. This strategy has been successful, as sales through food stores, drug stores and mass merchandising channels have produced the greatest volume and dollar sales historically.  [3]   Colgate-Palmolive has a large number of stock keeping units for their toothbrush line.  [4]  Multitudes of SKUs indicate that Colgate-Palmolive is targeting a broad spectrum of market segments in the toothbrush market, which spreads the risk inherent to carrying any product. Diversification of product types within the toothbrush market is another strength factor Colgate-Palmolive holds. Colgate-Palmolives secret weapon in the war for supremacy in the super-premium market, Colgate Precision, is proven to be very effective in removing plaque 35% more effective than existing brands and in preventing gum disease. This advantage can be attributed to the innovative design, high-tech research using CAD and infrared scanning, consumer research and extensive product testing. Although this technology is a strong argument for positioning Precision in the super-premium category, Colgate-Palmolive could also use its design aspects to improve Colgate-Palmolives existing professional and value toothbrush lines to increase their respective market shares. Colgate-Palmolives patented  [5]  innovation for Precision also stands as a strength upon which Colgate-Palmolive can lean for other market differentiating advancements. Colgate-Palmolives recent infusion of new capital into its manufacturing facilities will bode well as it prepares to battle for market share in the new super-premium market segment. Colgate-Palmolive will be able to leverage its existing relationship with its manufacturing partner, Anchor toothbrush, to quickly and cost-effectively product its newest product. Weaknesses The impending release of Colgate-Palmolives new toothbrush, Precision, may affect sales of its existing toothbrush lines. This may lead to a cannibalization of the Colgate Plus and Colgate Classic market of up to 60%.  [6]  Since the existing toothbrush lines are the cash cows  [7]  of the companys oral care division, a dismal performance by the new Colgate-Palmolive Precision might drain the cash cows of their resources altogether. Colgate-Palmolives media expenditure layout is very small compared to its rivals.  [8]  It has spent only $7 million dollars on its Colgate-Palmolive Plus marketing efforts and has only 19% of the share voice. Since media exposure fuels consumer demand  [9]  for a new product, this is one area where Colgate-Palmolive needs to have its expenditures equivalent to that of its rivals. Another marketing weakness that Colgate-Palmolive faces is its lack of professional dental endorsements, with less than half that in market share and dollar sales than that of their largest competitor, Oral-B. Similar to Colgate-Palmolives lack of professional endorsement, the Precision toothbrush does not have the fullest endorsement from the American Dental Associations (ADA). Although the ADA issued its seal to the product, the seal alone stands for little more than recognition that the toothbrush works. In fact, only when the ADA issues its seal and an official quote stating that a product is superior to similar product types, does a product receive the fullest support possible. Not having the full backing of the ADA is a weakness which Colgate-Palmolive may have to overcome to gain the professional endorsement they seek.  [10]   Opportunities Macroeconomic The emergence of the niche super-premium category presents a golden opportunity for Colgate-Palmolive to increase market share for several reasons. First, although its competitors, i.e. Oral-B, Johnson Johnson and Procter Gamble, have gained a foot-hold in this niche market already, Colgate-Palmolive can still make a dent with its new Precision toothbrush, thus enabling them to enter a new and potentially highly profitable market segment. Since the super-premium category accounts for 35% of the volume and 46% of the dollar sales of toothbrushes  [11]  this niche category may in turn result in a substantial profit margin. Secondly, with the baby boomers and younger generations becoming more concerned with the health of their gums, they will be willing to pay the above mentioned premium for a toothbrush  [12]  which is optimized for better gum care. Colgate-Palmolive can capitalize upon this demographic segment to ensure a successful release of their super-premium Precision toothbrush. Finally, since 82% of toothbrush purchases are unplanned and many consumers are unaware of the technological and cost variation among toothbrush brands,  [13]  Colgate-Palmolive could establish a media blitz with educational ads depicting Precision toothbrushes as technologically superior to its rivals at an equivalent cost. The ads can also serve to educate consumers about proper toothbrush replacement schedules to ensure effective plaque removal and gum disease prevention. Ultimately, Colgate-Palmolive could leverage their advertising campaign to boost sales and revenues. Microeconomic One of Colgate-Palmolives competitors, Johnson Johnson,  [14]  ranked third in toothbrush sales, was phasing out one of its toothbrush lines at the time of the Precision introduction. As the toothbrush market remains rather constant, courting customer from other brands, particularly ones being phased out, is a tremendous opportunity to gain market share.  [15]  Another competitor, Smithkline Beecham, was predicting an operating loss in its toothbrush business.  [16]  If the losses are sustained, it might cause Smithkline Beecham to move out of the toothbrush business all together, yet again opening the door for further gain of market share. Colgate-Palmolives constant innovation also provides an opportunity to convert consumers away from less advanced toothbrushes, such as those offered by Lever. Threats Threat of intense segment rivalry The super-premium toothbrush market is highly competitive, hosting many brands and private label toothbrushes. If any of these rivals creates a toothbrush which tops or even equals the technology of Precision, specifically if done at a lower production cost, Colgate-Palmolive may lose market share. Threat of new entrants Along with intense rivalry from existing competitors, Colgate-Palmolive has to deal with new competitors. In 1991, the toothbrush market exploded with a dramatic increase in new entrants. Proctor and Gamble introduced Crest Complete, their first toothbrush  [17]  . Smithkline Beecham entered the market with Aquafresh Flex and a 9% market share volume for 1991. Levre, Pfizer and Sunstar all entered the market in 1991 and earned a total 11% market share. These numbers reinforce the seriousness of the threat of new entrants that Colgate-Palmolive will have to contend with when they launch Colgate Precision. Threat of substitute products Similar to many industries, oral care technology has advanced tremendously since its inception in approximately 3000 B.C. The introduction of the nylon bristled toothbrush in 1938  [18]  represents one of the latest quantum improvements for the industry, however it was not the last. The introduction of electronic toothbrushes and water picks are threatening to usurp traditional oral care products market share. This is a threat which Colgate-Palmolive needs to heed, despite its confidence in the technology of Precision. Threat of suppliers growing bargaining power Colgate-Palmolive depends on Anchor toothbrush for its outsourced manufacturing. Hence, Anchor toothbrush has a decided supplier advantage in the relationship with Colgate-Palmolive. If Anchor toothbrush were to increase its supply cost, it would affect Colgate-Palmolives production costs which in turn would impact Precisions market share by potentially pricing it above even the super-premium segment. Colgate-Palmolive needs to maintain a healthy relationship with Anchor toothbrush to reduce the risk of a costly supplier switching process. Threat of buyers growing bargaining power One of the factors which can cause buyers bargaining power to grow is when the switching costs for buyers are low. Even if Colgate-Palmolive were to position Precision as the most expensive toothbrush on the market, it is still a relatively inexpensive product, compared to many daily purchases (i.e. lunch in NYC or a cup of coffee at Starbucks). Therefore, buyers can easily switch between toothbrush brands without giving the decision much thought. To combat this threat, Colgate-Palmolive could position Precision as a superior toothbrush that customers can not afford to be without. PROBLEM STATEMENT In 1992, after evaluating the current market condition and completing its research and development, Colgate-Palmolive was ready to begin marketing its newest toothbrush, Colgate Precision. Of major concern to Colgate-Palmolive was how to position, brand and communicate this new product to the general population. Colgate-Palmolive also had to develop budget constraints and generate a marketing mix that would maximize the sales and revenues of the new product. Colgate-Palmolive was faced with the decision of whether to promote the new product as a high quality niche product marketed mainly towards individuals concerned about gum disease, or as a mainstream toothbrush that would be marketed as the best toothbrush available. If marketed as a niche product, Colgate-Palmolive would target a smaller market segment without as many competitors vying for market share. A niche market segment would also be willing to pay a premium for the new toothbrush. If, however, the toothbrush were marketed as a high quality mainstream toothbrush, Colgate-Palmolive would realize revenues from larger volumes of sales despite a lower price and more competition. To reach its verdict, Colgate-Palmolive analyzed forecasted data with regard to potential sales volumes and prices, advertising, packaging, and manufacturing costs, among other factors. A summary of this analysis, and a marketing strategy recommendation follows. EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVES In August 1992, Colgate-Palmolive had two options regarding the positioning strategy for their new toothbrush titled Colgate Precision. Their choice was to position the product as a mainstream offering or target the Precision toothbrush to a niche market. The positioning of the product would have little to do with any modifications to the actual design of this toothbrush, but would effect the perception of the toothbrush within the market. Mainstream or mass marketing refers to the mass production, distribution and promotion of a single product to all potential buyers.  [19]  Contrarily, niche marketing is a form of micro-marketing. It refers to a specifically defined group of consumers with a need that is not currently well served. A niche is created from a subdivision of a market segment.  [20]  Due to the diversity of these two market types, the decision to market the Precision toothbrush as a mass-market product or as a niche product involves analysis of the advantages and disadvantages for each. Mainstream Marketing Advantages The primary reasons to use a mainstream marketing approach is that the product is made accessible to a larger market. Marketing to a more diverse audience would enable Colgate-Palmolive to construct a more simple and direct campaign that would address the common concerns of all toothbrush buyers. Consequently, the use of television and radio would be more cost effective as it would reach this larger audience. The obvious goal of such a position would be to capture a greater return on the investment Colgate-Palmolive made on this products research and development effort. It is estimated that within twelve months this product could secure 10% of the market and a volume share of 14.7% by its second year. This would equate to 27 million retail unit sales in year one and 44 million in the second year, if positioned as a mainstream product.  [21]   Disadvantages There are also many problems with marketing Precision to the masses. In the mainstream market a higher price makes a product less attractive to the average consumer. This means that Colgate will have to price their product within reasonable alignment of other similar products in order to be a serious competitor inside this market, ultimately diminishing their potential profit margin and return on investment. There is a variance amongst consumers in relation to oral hygiene. They are classified into three groups: Involved oral health consumers Therapeutic brushers Involved oral health consumers Cosmetic brushers Uninvolved oral health consumers These segments are divided into relative percentages of adult toothbrush users. They are 46%, 21% and 33% respectively.  [22]  This illustrates that one third of the toothbrush using adult population has only little interest in oral hygiene and are probably not a worthwhile audience to which to pitch the Precision toothbrush. The expense of including these consumers in the target market would not be advisable. In the design and testing phase of the Precision toothbrush, Colgate-Palmolive accrued significant clinical data concerning the product. This information would not be relevant to the mainstream market that most likely would view it as too scientific. The Precision toothbrush was originally conceived to be a top-of the-range, super-premium product  [23]  indicating that production schedules had been developed in line with a niche marketing strategy. Mainstream marketing would require a greater volume production of the toothbrush with an estimated ten month lead time to achieve sufficient quantities of the product. This could result in an inadequate supply of the product at the outset.  [24]   The objective of the research and development group working on the product was to develop a superior, technical, plaque-removing device.  [25]  It was produced to be the best toothbrush possible and become the top-of the-range, super-premium product.  [26]  All of these phrases are heavily skewed towards niche merchandising. A mainstream product should aim to serve all of the people, all the time. This product clearly was created with niche-oriented goals. The greatest issue facing Colgate-Palmolive if they were to promote this product in the mainstream market is that it would be distributed through the same channels as an existing Colgate-Palmolive toothbrush called Colgate Plus.  [27]  Colgate Classic was the companys original entry in the toothbrush sector and was positioned as a value segment. The Colgate Plus came later and was placed in the professional segment as a higher quality product.  [28]  Including Precision as a high-end, mainstream product could potentially cannibalize Colgate Plus sales. Finally, Susan Steinberg, the product manager of Precision, felt that incorporating the new product into the mass market would require the company to delete one or more of the seven existing SKUs (stock keeping units) that Colgate-Palmolive produced.  [29]  This strategy could result in a loss of market share in the value or high-end segments. Niche Marketing Advantages Advertising companies have access to audience profiles through a wide variety of media products, such as television, radio and print media. This is the fundamental basis for successful niche marketing. A great advantage of offering any eligible product to a niche market is that it allows for a concentrated, specific advertising campaign, targeted to a specific demographic, psychographic, behavioral or geographic segment through whichever medium is most effective at reaching the specific population.  [30]  This allows efficient use of advertising budgets. Precision falls within the class of goods that could tender itself as a niche product. Developed to be the best toothbrush possible and placed in the super-premium category, this toothbrush is inherently a niche product. Members of the public most interested in this toothbrush would be those in the Involved oral health consumers groups; therapeutic and cosmetic brushers. Therapeutic brushers are interested in functionally effective products and differentiate between brands.  [31]  Both segments of customers would appreciate the scientific data Colgate-Palmolive has complied on this toothbrush. The facts that the initial clinical trials removed an average of 35% more plaque over that of Reach and Oral-B, and that it assists in the reduction of the likelihood of gum disease, would be effective information for this group.  [32]  Unlike the mass market, these are issues which a niche market segment would comprehend and about which they would care. Niche market participants are also more likely to pay a premium for this product due to the fact that Precision caters to a distinct set of needs they have. With this type of positioning, a 15% increase in price above Oral-B regular would be anticipated, bringing the cost to consumers to $2.13 per unit (more aligned with Oral-B Indicator). A mainstream market could only be anticipated to pay $1.85, in accordance with the Oral-B regular line.  [33]   As Precision was conceived more as a niche-type product, initial production was set for the lower demands of the smaller market segment. As discussed previously, to change the natural emphasis of the toothbrush to mainstream distribution would require a major overhaul of projected production schedule and costs due to the increase number of units required. Additionally, to keep Precision as a specialized product means that the new product is less likely to invade the market share of other Colgate-Palmolive products, like the Colgate Plus. This would also preserve the number of SKU that Colgate-Palmolive currently produces in the toothbrush sector. Niche markets historically attract fewer competitors.  [34]  This gives time and room for a new product such as Precision to establish itself and build up a market share before it may have to fight against a new contender. Disadvantages Marketing the Precision product to a niche market would generate less revenue for Colgate-Palmolive than a mainstream approach. Working with the estimated figures for the first two years of release generates the following table. Niche marketing Mainstream marketing Year 1 Year 2 Year 1 Year 2 No. units sold 8MM 15MM 27MM 44MM Factory list price $2.13 $1.85 Total revenue generated $17,040,000 $31,950,000 $49,950,000 $81,400,000 Obviously, the niche market revenue is significantly less than the mainstream market revenue, despite the 13% higher price. Conclusion Developing and communicating a positioning strategy for a product is necessary and critical. Differentiating a product, and the degree to which that product is differentiated, can be guided by quantifying the following criteria: Importance Distinctiveness Superiority Preemptiveness Affordability Profitability Using these parameters, a company can provide the public with a reason to buy their product.  [35]   Another tool used in solving the marketing mix problem companies face when launching a new product is a perceptual map.  [36]  This is a graphic representation of two or more features against which similar products can be ranked. When graphed, the resulting map displays areas to which the product types cater, revealing both areas of over population and areas of potential opportunity. Clusters of products exist when similar products appeal to the same consumer market participants. In these areas, competition is intense, therefore, they are not as attractive when positioning a new product. An optimal plan is to create a space within the product market that is relatively free of rivals and can enable a new product to develop and dominate. A perceptual map for Precision was created from the following data: Toothbrush Price Benefits Class Colgate Precision 0.8 0.9 Super Premium Oral-B Indicator 0.8 0.8 Super Premium Oral-B Regular 0.7 0.6 Super Premium Crest Complete 0.5 0.6 Super Premium Reach Advanced 0.6 0.5 Super Premium Aquafresh Flex 0.7 0.7 Super Premium Colgate Plus 0.4 0.4 Professional Reach Regular 0.3 0.4 Professional Pepsodent Professional 0.2 0.4 Professional Colgate Classic -0.4 -0.1 Value Pepsodent Regular -0.3 -0.1 Value Butter GUM Microtip 0.3 -0.1 Value Butter GUM Supertip 0.4 0.1 Value Menedent Pro-Core 0.7 0.7 Professional Oral-B cross action 1 0.8 Super Premium Generic Eckerd Interdental -0.5 -0.2 Value Generic Eckerd Angle -0.7 -0.2 Value Crest Advantage 1 0.8 Super Premium Recommendation Using these evaluative criteria in relation to the advantages and disadvantages of niche and mainstream marketing, we believe that Colgate-Palmolive should position the Precision toothbrush as a niche product. This would establish Precision as the leading toothbrush on the market at a competitive price. It would be a superior and distinctive oral care product. However, we believe this product would also work in the mainstream market and we envision it moving towards the mass market in the future. Once the toothbrush has established itself as a high quality product with specialty features, we believe that Colgate-Palmolive could transition the product to a wider audience. This will also allow time for Colgate to reconcile the position that the Colgate Plus product will hold relative to the Precision line. Further, we anticipate no significantly negative issues will be encountered by initially marketing Precision as a niche product and then moving it into the mainstream market. We do not believe the opposite would be true, as a niche market will most likely not accept a product that has been offered to the masses as the best value, and then marketed as a specialty item. The anticipated cyclical nature of the product on the market is well illustrated by the Boston Consulting Groups Growth-Share matrix.  [37]  The Precision toothbrush will begin as a question mark. This means the company will spend money developing and establishing the product in anticipation of increasing its market share. Subsequently, the hope would be for Precision to become a star, meaning it has been successful by obtaining a high market share and growth rate. If the product evolves into a mainstream offering by this time, the company will reap higher rewards. Going even further into the future, the toothbrush will most likely decrease its market growth rate while maintaining its high market share. At this phase the product will be a cash cow. Revenues produced from Precision at this phase can be used to establish other question marks and/or subsidize other stars if required. The final phase in this products life cycle will be a decline into dog status. This refers to the product when it has weak market share and low growth. At that point, Precision would need to be removed from the companys product line, allowed to decline further or all together repositioned in the market. At this point, the research and development phase for Precision has been completed, a thorough analysis has been performed on the current market situation, and a marketing strategy has been recommended. The final aspects of launching a new product must now be investigated product, price, place and promotion. PRODUCT Colgate-Palmolive has many important decisions to make regarding the new toothbrush before it becomes available on store shelves for customers to purchase, including the positioning strategy for the new toothbrush. To reach a conclusion, the new toothbrush must be analyzed on three product levels the core product, the actual product, and the augmented product so that customers needs are fully understood and the Precision toothbrush is correctly marketed to meet those needs. Since we are recommending that Colgate-Palmolive choose a niche market for Precision, the core benefit that the toothbrush will deliver to its users is plaque removal. Less plaque in turn leads to the added benefit of a reduction of the lik