Saturday, August 31, 2019

Sarah’s Scenario

That will put Sarah In a position to disobey her parent's rules of curfew. Socially, she is extroverted and thrives off of other people. There are three factors that Influence her willing to go against her parent's rules. These Include belonging, understanding, and enhancing-self. She Is new and wants to belong too new crowd and fit In while trying to understand their outlook and ways of talking. With that, she Is likely to feel more worthy to the group and make her feel better about herself.According to chapter 16 of Learn Psychology, (20131 cognitive dissonance Is a discomfort that someone experiences when putting ideas together that conflict with each other. Now in this situation, Sarah displays cognitive dissonance when she knows that she has no business going to anyone's party because if she does, she will miss her parent's curfew. If Sarah chooses not to go to the party, she will miss out on having fun with her new friends. This is likely to give her a uncomfortable feeling bec ause she knows she does not need to go.And that is because she knows it will cause conflict with her parents. Sarah is being affected by a few behaviors in this situation. Conformity is when a person changes their ways and thoughts to be alike another persons. Sarah wants to go to this party because she never attended one before. She also wanted this new roof of individuals to continue to involve her and invite her to events. Plus she was afraid she would miss out on the fun had she not went. Sarah displays conformity by giving in to her friends' beliefs because she went to the party anyway when she should not have.Then Sarah meets a boy named Jack at the party. As they talked, they learned they have quite a few things in common with each other. Jack and Sarah share several factors of attraction such as similarity, proximity, and physical attraction. If they do get to go on the date Jack invited her on, they are likely to enjoy themselves and get along well. They had a few similarit ies such as enjoying the same music or going to the same school. They also live In the same area nearby each other.Also, Jack Is clearly attracted to Sarah because he left her know that he thought she was beautiful. Because of these few factors, they surely have an Interest In each other romantically. Then two guys from the party get Into a pretty abrupt altercation and argument. Of course all the party goers have a piqued curiosity so they run outside to satisfy that need. Funny thing Is, no one stopped these two boys from fighting, That altercation ended up turning physical and again, no one of the party goers went o help the boys.Because of this physical altercation between the two boys, that group of popular kids used the bystander effect which means, â€Å"people are less likely are when they are alone. † (Carter & Sifter, 2013, Chapter Chapter 16). What these kids ended up doing was leave. They all went home. What one of these kids could have done differently is display diffusion of responsibility. That means a person has the tendency to be the responsible one and push the help factor amongst everyone else. Yet, not one child did, they ended up leaving the boys and everyone else there t the party..Sarah was likely going through the initial events of her evening because of her displays of conformity. She had a great deal of experience with social influences that evening. Questions are, if she had attended the party alone, would she have left the party by herself after the fight? Or would she have Just stayed there after the fight even if she had come alone? Sometimes people tend to do things differently when they are around other types of individuals. On this particular evening, Sarah and all her decisions were ultimately influenced by her peers all evening long.

Friday, August 30, 2019

India, China, and Japan History Essay

Early offers from the west – The west wanted to trade with china but they rejected it. They had all the stuff they needed and didn’t need any outside help Self-Reliance – China thought they didn’t need any help from the outside Trading limitations – China was self-reliant, so it didn’t tend to trade with other countries. But then again the European countries wanted to trade with them. They set limits on which they would trade with. Opium/Opium war of 1839 – Opium was the cash crop in China, there was a war between the British and the China, China lost and British declared a treaty Treaty of Nanjing – China lost and British declared the Treaty of Nanjing which states that British get Hong Kong Extraterritorial Rights – Is when foreigners do not have to ‘follow’ the rules of that country in a place Taiping Rebellion – Peace war with the peasants Dowager Empress – Cixi was the last emperor of China, and was overthrown by her nephew Sphere of Influence – Another foreign country control your economic powers Open Door Policy – They opened the ‘doors’ to other countries, Doors as in trading Boxer Rebellion – The boxer rebellion was 1900 revolt that was aiming to end foreign rule over parts of their country 1905 World Tour – Where the Chinese went to other countries to study their ways and copy some Constitution – Wrote their constitution based off of Germany Kuomintang – Nationalist party; led by Sun Yixian; a forerunner of the party, overthrew the last emperor of the Qing Dynasty (1644) in 1912 Sun Yixian – 1st great leader of the Kuomintang; wanted a government based on the â€Å"three principles of the people† (nationalism, people’s right, people’s livelihood); lacked authority and military support to fufill his goal; turned over presiden cy to Yuan Shikai (a powerful General) Treaty of Versailles – The treaty of Versailles gave some of China’s land to Japan May 4th Movement – 5000 students plus many farmers, workers, and peasants protesting against Treaty of Versailles Mao Zedong – An assistant librarian at Beijing University; one of the founders of the Chinese Communist Party in Shanghai; one of China’s greatest leaders Chiang Kai-Shek – Son of a middle-class merchant; followers were bankers and business people; feared that social economy is like the USSR; peasants did not support Jiang, Communists; became president of the Nationalist Republic of China Nationalist Republic of China – The national republic of china was a government-kind-of-thing that was lead by the Kuomintang â€Å"Swimming in the peasant sea† – Said by Mao Zedong because he took lenin’s idea but changed them a little bit because he believe the peasants could be revolutionaries†¦ The Long March – Communists fled and hid from the Nationalists led by Jiang, 100,000 communists fled, thousands died from hunger, hypothermia, etc, communists were only one step ahead from Jiang’s forces Unity VS Japan India British East India Company (1600-1858) History- Inside 3 cities: Bombay, Madras, Calcutta; Sir Robert Clive defeats Indian & French army; Leading power in India; Used British officers and Sepoy soldiers (Indian) Sepoy- Soldiers from India Jewel in the Crown† (Benefits of British Rule)- India has the 3rd largest railroad system, modern roads, telephone lines, damn, bridges, irrigation canals, sanitation/public health, schools/colleges, ended local welfare, brought relative peace Negatives of British Rule- British had political/economic power, restricted Indian-owned industries, emphasis on cash crops for Britain (reduced food production/famine), racial attitudes from British to Indians Sepoy Mutiny (1857) – Rumor of British smearing beef & pork lard on cartridges (religious issues); 85/90 people refused and sent to jail May 10, 1858- Sepoys rebelled, took over Delhi; British takes over, end of BEIC, start of RAJ, RAJ was British rule under India, Queen Victoria rewarded those who supported BEIC, and killed those who didn’t Ram Muhum Roy- Began a campaign to move India away from tradition (No caste sy stem and no child marriages) Indian National Congress- Founded in 1885 at Bombay, separates Hindus and Muslims in 1905, Muslim league formed in 1906 Swaraj- Self-Rule Amritsar Massacre (1919)- Indians protested against the Rowlatt Acts, 10,000 Indians protested by praying and fasting, the British fired into the crowd Gandhi – The massacre sets the stage for Gandhi to take over, people boycotted British shops and merchandise. One day, Indians marched 240 miles to the ocean to make their own salt, 60,000+ arrested including Gandhi Raj – (1858-1947) Partition – Had everything separate onto 2 countries; 10 million relocated, 1 million died in the process August 15th, 1947- India is the world’s largest democracy under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru Japan Prior to the Meiji Era Shoguns- Top people in the Japanese military Contact to the outside world- No contact to the outside world for peasants and workers Commodore Perry (Treaty of Kangawa) – Arrives in 1853 at Tokyo harbor scaring the Japanese with warships delivering a letter from US President Fillmore; US wanted free trade with Japan (Japan also trades with China and the Dutch), more coaling stations, more trading partners, a haven for ship-wrecked sailors; the Treaty of Kangawa in 1854 opened 2 ports for the US, in 1860, the US were allowed to trade, traditionalist did not like the plan Meiji Revolt (1868) – Samurai overthrew the Shogun The Last Shogun- The last shogun was Emperor Mutsuhito who ruled for 45 years, he wanted Japan to modernize; Mutsuhito sent diplomats to Europe and the US Meiji Reforms – Abolition of feudal system, land redistribution, westernize the school system (USA), modernize the army (Germany), modernize Navy (British), Emperor worship, human rights, religious freedom, written constitution (Germany), m odern banking system. In 1890, Japan was the strongest military in Asia, decided to show how strong they are by attacking other countries Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) – In 1885, China and Japan decide to leave Korea alone. In the month of June in 1894, Korea asks China for help, Japan protested against the help and sent in their military, in only a few months, Japan takes down the entire Chinese Navy. Treaty of Shimonseki (1895) – Japan start having colonies in Korea and Japan Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) – In 1903, Japan asks if Russia stays out of Manchuria, Russia refuses and they star fighting. Treaty of Portsmouth (1905) – In 1905, the US comes in and used the Treaty of Portsmouth to end the R-J war. They gave Japan its territory and forced Russia out of Manchuria Annexing of Korea – In 1905, Japan made Korea protectorate (sent advisors). In 1907, the Korean king quits and in 1910, Japan annexes Korea.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

A Letter Concerning the Tuition Fee Increase in the Campus Essay Example for Free

A Letter Concerning the Tuition Fee Increase in the Campus Essay ? This academic year in our school had been very exciting and full of learning for the students. The school had been efficient enough in providing us the quality education that students’ need in preparation of their future careers. However it had been a serious issue in the campus among us, students, the continued increase in our tuition and other fees.   Students see, that in order to escalate further the quality of education in our school, the school has to face strenuous modifications in technology, books, and other school facilities. However, there would always a need for students to be consulted first about the issue, because these matters would always concern us. Along with the increase in the tuition fee is the increase in all other fees. Why? First, if the school would not fight for a greater state subsidy, then the school had to pay for the bills, the salary as well as to the technology and materials it would employed. With this matter, the budget would come from the tuition of the students and everything else would be increased; Internet fee, laboratory fee, school paper, etc. Second, education is supposed to be a right and not just a privilege, but with the continued increase in the tuition fee, along with other miscellaneous fees in the campus, there had been an apparent decline in the enrollment rate compared to the previous years. This only shows that few students were able to access the right to education because of the increase. Hence, there is a significant relationship between tuition fee increase and to the limited access of students to education (Dalton 2006). A similar study from the Rand Corporation in 1995 indicated that for every 10percent increase in the tuition fee of the students, there would be a 1.97 percent in the enrollment of the focus of study. Third, the effect of tuition fee and other fee increases would be felt less by those of the middle class brackets. Most of the burden would be felt by those in the lower class; usually with among black and with ethnic backgrounds. Accordingly, majority of the students in most schools were usually coming from the lower bracket and they were the ones who were greatly affected. The school is the only way for these students to move to the next ladder in the society. The tendencies for these students are to dropout or to transfer to a cheaper school with low educational standards. Needless to say, the educational preparation that they got is not enough to equip them for a high paying job in the future. The tuition fee increase that the school implemented is a subtle permit for the state to less care for the educational welfare of its citizens. Students are wary of the fact, that because of the tuition fee increase, we have to burden ourselves with part time jobs more than double just to compensate for the shortage in budget. Students recognized that tuition fee increase in needed to uplift the educational quality in this school. However, it is too fast and too soon to implement. Students are not prepared yet; emotionally, physically and financially.   There was no consultation in the increase in fees. It had always been our right to know and the responsibility for this school to be transparent. The students carried the baggage of financial hardship just to beautify the school, but the education that we got before then was still the same as now. Except of course in slight innovations in the laboratory facilities and in technology, the same education system we got from the school. If tuition fee increase is really bound to happen, we wanted to be prepared for it. We wanted an apparent positive change in the learning that we got; of course it is not to say that we got no learning from this school, it is just that, the change in learning is just minimal. This school has been our battleground to combat poverty, to uplift our situations and to gain learning. If the school is to increase its tuition fee and other fees, we expect that it would also provide subsidy through scholarship, or other alternative solutions to augment our financial difficulties. As well as it is the responsibility of our parents to finance our education; it is also the responsibility of the state to provide to its people the right to education. But how could we get this if tour very right has now become a mere privilege. The sad fact is, not the privilege of the majority but of the few only.   If we are destined to suffer from the tuition fee and other fee increases, would it be right that we would also demand great changes in everything. Would the payment that we give, be enough for us to pose subordinate command over our instructors and over other employees; anyway, we paid for them. Students believe, that in this school, students of characters should be made and not just a mere passive, technologically dependent ones. We need support to develop our minds, which is the role of this school. But where would we go now if this school would deprive us of that need? We seek to be consulted first, we need data of its great benefits on us, and we need alternatives for the increase that is accessible for everybody and not only for the few. [Name of the Sender] [Position/Occupation] Works Cited Dalton, McGuinty. â€Å"Canandian Federation of students.† 8 March 2006 A Letter Concerning the Tuition Fee Increase in the Campus. (2017, Feb 21).

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Effective ways to decreasing sexual drive in sex offenders Essay

Effective ways to decreasing sexual drive in sex offenders - Essay Example The methods used in decreasing the sexual drive of sexual offenders aim at addressing the sexual interests, interpersonal functioning, distorted attitudes and behavior management (Reamer, 2005). The behavioral interventions in decreasing the sex drive of sexual offenders aims at controlling the sexual preferences and interests from children and violence, addressing the distorted beliefs and attitudes and emotional regulation (Wright, 2009). One of the effective ways is the cognitive-behavioral treatment that is used to address the inappropriate attitudes and inappropriate sexual preferences through modifying the thinking pattern, modifying the arousal patterns and reducing reoffending (Wright, 2009). Aversion therapy ensures that deviant sexual patterns are altered through use of paraphilic stimulus like induced nausea at peak arousal or foul odor or using a positive reinforcement such as inducing masturbation at the peak of arousal in order to switch to appropriate fantasies (Schwartz & Cellini, 1995). Cognitive restructuring is another cognitive-behavioral therapy that will enable the sexual offender deal with cognitive distortions such as the notion that women enjoy rape and will involve training on social skills on how to interpret certain social issues without sexual distortions. The general purpose of the behavioral techniques is to pair the deviant fantasies with discomfort and boredom and pair the intense physi cal pleasure of orgasm with health fantasies (Reamer, 2005). Pharmacological interventions involve administration of prescription medicines. A common medication is the management of deviant sexual arousal through Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors that treat the obsessive-compulsive disorders thus reducing aggression and sexual urges (Reamer, 2005). This is an homonotherapy that reduces the circulation of testosterone through injection of chemicals such as ant-androgen that

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Historic Event in Middle East Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Historic Event in Middle East - Essay Example In 1917, Britain issued Balfour declaration which was seen as an attempt to support Jewish. The declaration however stated that Britain's support for the creation of Jewish national home in Palestine without violating civil and religious rights of the non-Jewish communities. By the year 1923 Britain had received two mandates a provisional mandate over Palestine and another east of river Jordan Arabs apposed the idea of Jewish national home which lead to a Palestine, Arab nation movement in early 1930s over 100,000 Jewish refugees came to Palestine from nazi Germany and Poland) which made the Arabs organize a general uprising that paralyzed Palestine in the late 1930s. In 1939 British began to limit Jewish immigration and land purchases and it was to be done under Arabs approval only (Mendelsohn, 1989) During World War II, most Palestinian Arabs and Jews stopped their resistance to the British rule and joined the allied forces. After World War II Zionist wanted British to allow immigration of the holocaust survivors they therefore used force to stop Great Britain from limiting Jewish immigration into Palestine. The United Nations special commission on Palestine recommended that Palestine be divided into Arab state and Jewish state also Jerusalem to be put under international control. The UN general assembly adopted this plan on November 29 1947, which could lead to the birth of Israel. Arabs rejected the move and fighting broke immediately. On 14th May 1940, the Jews proclaimed the independent state of Israel and the British withdrew from Palestine the next day neighboring Arabs nations attacked Israel. (Abboushi, 1987) The impacts of these events on today's world are:- It's the oppression of Jews in Eastern Europe that resulted in mass emigration of Jewish refugees who occupied Palestine with an aim of making it an independent Jewish nation the impact today being continued on and off violence between the pales tines and Israelites since then. The pales tines are fighting for the land back a thing that the Zionists can not allow. The fact that British handed over Palestine to the Zionist brought animosity between the Palestinian Arabs and the Jews and this has led to the United Nation spending a lot of money in the peace keeping initiative which is aimed at restoring calm between the two parties. Security uncertainty in the Middle East has also impacted heavily on the oil prices with experienced price fluctuations depending on the political climate in the Middle East. Cold and physical war between Americans ad Arabs came as result of the emigration of Jews from Eastern Europe due to oppression. The Americans are fighting in favor of the Jews with whom they are known to have the same origin. Lastly, the late 1800's oppression of Jews in Eastern Europe had a very strong impact on today's world because the fact that the Jews occupied 'foreign land' has led to suicide bombers. This are Palestinian terrorists who are ready to

Monday, August 26, 2019

Freedom in Colonial American Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Freedom in Colonial American Society - Essay Example The American civil war went on until 1865 when it was unanimously declared through the emancipation proclamation that stated that all slaves in the confederate states were free. Through state action and through the thirteenth amendment to the American constitution all slaves in the union and the Border States were freed. The American civil war transformed societies not only in the 'union' but also in the confederate states as well as in Canada. This was because all persons of all walks of lives in the three regions were affected. It is claimed that the civil war claimed more than 600,000 lives. On top of this, millions of people were wounded; more millions were left homeless especially in the confederate states, as well as massive destruction of properties in the confederate states. The American civil war also led to wide changes in the American as well as the Canadian way of life. Since slavery, was the backbone that had supported the south's political and social elites, the destruction of it thus meant a backdrop in economic activities To the average southerner the results of the war were poverty, homelessness, and emotional trauma as almost all economic and agricultural infrastructures was destroyed. In addition, the south would have to adopt the north's mode of production specializing in mechanics and industrialization. On the part of the federal state, the outcome of t

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Pride in Bury My Heart in Wounded Knee Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Pride in Bury My Heart in Wounded Knee - Essay Example In this movie however, pride is presented as strength. To begin with, the White settlers exhibit pride when they employ pretence to gain access to the land of the natives. After gaining the access, they maltreat the natives and reportedly kill the natives ‘for their energy resources’ (Voluk 154). The strong pride in this case makes them to maintain that the contentious land resource does not belong to anyone. This is regardless of having found the native inhabitants therein. Ultimately, this enables the Whites to have access to the resource. Also worth appreciating that the inherent pride gives the Americans the strength to persist on. Pride in this case is the driving force of all the activities. The White soldiers believe that they deserve only the best and this enables them to conquer the natives. Certainly, it is pride that made General Custer to carry and fight on even after the gruesome defeat in 1876. The soldiers at this point believed that the then defeat was temporary and could not demoralize them. Thus pride in this case can be considered a strength that contributes significantly to the success of the

Michael Jackson Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Michael Jackson - Assignment Example Michael Jackson’s fame as a cult figure in pop music is not limited to the sphere of African American music but it extends to the sphere of modern pop music, popular culture and other fields. Besides, his habit of donating large amounts to charity organizations and orphanages prove his attitude towards the needy. For instance, his donation to Leaganul Pentru Copii Sfinta Ecaterina Orphanage is memorable. In addition, he was selected as the person who broke the record for "Most Charities Supported by a Pop Star". His love towards orphans and charity donations were never ending and he used to support around 39 organizations which work for charity. The charity foundation initiated by Jackson namely ‘Heal the World Foundation’ donated millions of dollars to children who were facing war and poverty related problems. When compared with other celebrities in different fields, Jackson’s public and personal life was troublesome. Jackson's relationship with his father was not normal. Lee Pinkerton, in the work- ‘The many faces of Michael Jackson’ opines that Michael Jackson’s father used to treat his children rudely and did not allow them to play with others. Jackson's father used to torture him mentally and physically. But Jackson was of the opinion that his father's strict disciplinary rules helped him be the success in his future life. Lisa D. Campbell, in the work - ‘Michael Jackson: the king of pop' makes clear that music was an important factor that united the Jackson family.

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Histograms Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Histograms - Essay Example Notably, histograms are indispensable in tabulating and analysis of data acquired from the intelligent quotient scores of both males and females varying results. In addition, it gives details on the mean, minimum, maximum, standard deviation, class width and skewness of the intelligent quotient scores of both male and females. Considerably, histograms are significant in showing the distribution of data thus, it is essential to establish the differences that occur in the intelligent quotient scores of both male and females. More than often, female are agreeable and open with their feelings as compared to their male counterparts who are assertive. As a result, the intelligent quotient tests that require details on information about a person’s openness, empathy and facial expression make females more likely to score highly than males, because in nature, they give detail information and are skilful in verbal communication. On the other hand, the male will give less information and as a result, score poorly in the intelligent quotient test. In addition, the memory holding capability of both males and females differ because the male counterparts have the ability to recall encounters masculine in nature and scores highly as such, if the intelligence quotient test asked are dealing with events of masculine’s nature. On the other hand, females have the ability to remember experiences, faces and names of individuals and places (Garlick, 2003). As a result, female participants score highly in intel ligent quotient tests that incorporate questions dealing with remembering events and experiences they encountered before hence scoring highly than their males counterparts. Extensively, males are proficient in things that involves mental rotation and mathematical in nature (Dykiert, Gale & Deary, 2007). As a result, tests set with mathematical calculation makes the males comfortable and tackle them with much ease and score highly than the females. In addition, many

Friday, August 23, 2019

Favorite Person Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Favorite Person - Essay Example His values and dedication are not driven by the desire to achieve fame of to gain a reward but as a true representation for ideal humanity. He has therefore become an inspiration to both his colleagues and neighbors. The ability to live according to the values he believes is what makes Uncle Bill a successful person. Uncle Bill believes that ethics are the foundation of every society. Without ethics, all societies will crumble. Bill also believes that ethics are the true determinant of patriots in any society or organization. The problem with modern organizations and countries comes from lack of patriotism. According to uncle bill, this situation can be overturned by embracing ethics in all organizations. Work ethics are of particular interest to him since people spend most of their quality time in their work place. Work ethics determines the right and wrongs of a particular organization and they do not have any constraints. This indicates that every individual has the responsibility to distinguish between rights and wrongs. Uncle bill has a good sense of right and wrongs within the work place and his action does not depend on the views of the authority or the rules in operation within the organization. In addition, his well-developed respect for work ethics, Uncle Bill gives priority to his work. His dedication is a motivational factor to both his supervisors and his colleagues. His dedication goes beyond the formal work environment since uncle bill also tries us much as possible to balance between his profession and social life. He once told me that dedication is what draws a line between success and failure. This sentiment is true concerning his achievements and those of his close friends. Recently I learnt that his dedication is embedded in the factor of attitude. Bill strongly believes that his attitude has determined the height of achievements. Dedication closely followed by success, which comes with a certain degree of fame. However, success

Thursday, August 22, 2019

The Lady with the Pet Dog Essay Example for Free

The Lady with the Pet Dog Essay The versions of the â€Å"The Lady with the Pet Dog† by Anton Chekhov and Joyce Oates are considered different largely due to the fact that the authors took different perspectives in narrating the story. The earlier maximized on the guy’s point of view, thus providing a clear interpretation of his actions, while the latter focused on the woman’s. However, in general, the story spoke of the same two persons and a dog; a man and a woman, both within the sanctity of marriage taking a vacation, meeting each other and getting into a dalliance. Then again, the authors showed different realizations from the man and the woman at the end of the story. Another main difference that can be observed, if one reads both stories, is the illustration of the personality of the female character, Anna Sergeyevna.. In Chekhov’s account, she was barely described, so simplified, typical, one can only see her through Gurov’s perception of her, if not for her major participation as Gurov’s mistress she might as well be just one of the women generalized in the story. Thus, after reading the story, one would definitely identify her as just the lady with the pet dog. On the other hand, although Oates took the view of the female character, she did not maximize on the actions, rather on what Anna feels; her inner emotions. Thus, she was able to show the female protagonist as having a hysterical character, has suicidal tendencies, full of self-loathing and with a melodramatic self-image. It was also shown in this version what seemed to be almost neglected in the original narration, the female protagonist’s thoughts of the situation she was in. If one would observe how Anna reacted on the circumstance based on Chekhov’s narrations, it would be unclear how she felt about what was happening. One may somehow recognize the struggles but not to the extent of truly identifying with her. In fact, it may be possible to jump to a conclusion that she was not tremendously affected by the obviously wrong conduct that they were doing. As can be seen in the situation where Gurov went to visit her, she was described as astonished about his sudden appearance but showed no remorse for they continued their escapades and promised to meet discretely (Gioia, 1998). This can be misleading for readers may interpret her reaction as a complete acceptance of the situation they were in. However, in Oates’s account, it can be seen and felt how much Anna was confused about the situation. The conflict inside her was clearly illustrated which made it easy to relate with her struggles. Thus, it can be understood why she had inclination to end her own life. Moreover, being able to focus on her perception makes readers understand that she actually desired for things to be in the right place. She wanted her marriage to be better so that things would be corrected. This confusion was emphasized more by Oates’s circular presentation of events, which made it seem like it was actually the main idea of the story. Moreover, in the depiction of the characters, one can see how the Gurov of Chekhov’s version and Anna of Oates’s story have quite different perceptions of marriage and adultery. Through Chekhov’s, we identify that the main protagonist do not think highly of his marriage, staying within it but not respecting its real essence. It has actually became instrumental in perpetuating his quest for women, thus, adultery can be said as a second nature to him. On the other hand, we learned through Oates that Anna has fair regards to her marriage, which made her feel guilty about her affair with Gurov. She was not comfortable with adultery the same way that her partner was; therefore, she had to deal with her conscience throughout the story. (Fulford, 2004). Further differences unfold at the end of each story. On Chekhov’s note, since it was on Gurov’s view, he presented how he realized that he can actually still find true love; that despite the fact that he despised women in general, here is a woman who was able to show him that he can still feel that form of affection. On the other hand, Anna also found love at the end of Oates’s story, however, it was a different one for it was a love for herself. It was an acceptance of what she is and what she has become in loving â€Å"the stranger†, which made her acknowledge that she cannot live without him and that her marriage would not be able to keep her from being with him. Through this realization, it showed that she has finally decided to take the path that would make her happy, disregarding other matters, just making a decision that would satisfy her needs and wants. Her identity has been found and she has learned to love it (Edrich, 2003). If profoundly analyzed, one would identify that the theme of both stories revolve on the stereotypical idea of love, marriage and adultery. Men tend to find love on another person, often on women, while women always seem to be lacking self-acceptance which translate to not loving themselves; women has higher respect and gives more importance to marriage as compared to men and society seems to have a better acceptance of men being adulterous but women are judged awfully for it. As a matter of fact, men who commit adultery are at times admired but women are abhorred for doing so. The story is somewhat an illustration of society’s double standard. Chekhov was a genius in coming up with a story with a theme like this and the way that he presented it was very exceptional. Oates should also be commended for her brilliance in making an interpretation of the woman’s character. Thus, even though these are different stories, they are able to present different perspectives and understanding of issues that are rampant in the society but are not often addressed. I cannot completely decide on which of the versions is better because both have their own merits, although I have a slight inclination to the original. Perhaps, a good deciding factor would be to which character one could relate to, the man or the woman? Works Cited: Edrich, M. M. (2003). The Lady with the Pet Dog Essay. Retrieved May 31, 2010, from: http://www. edrich. us/files/own/c_engcheckhov. pdf Fulford, R. (2004). Surprised by Love: Chekhov and The Lady with the Dog. Queens Quarterly, 111, 300+. Goioa, D. (1998). Anton Chekhovs The Lady with the Pet Dog. Retrieved May 31, 2010, from Ecclectic Literary Review: http://www. danagioia. net/essays/echekhov. htm

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Strategies for Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty

Strategies for Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty Abstract This research aims at to provide the strategies which can be employed by company in order to establish customer satisfaction and customer loyalty by looking at the case of Thai square which is the famous Thai restaurant in London regarding to its reputation. Since customer relationship management is gaining more important to businesses. Many companies try to solve their problem by applying customer relationship management such as the motivation of staff , staff training , method of increasing customer satisfaction, how to gain customer loyalty. These factors can lead to building customer loyalty in the future. In the part of literature review will emphasize on the basis theories which are relevant to the customer relationship management. This research contains the motivation theory , staff training , customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. By achieving this research purpose , this research employs secondary and primary data. The primary data was acquired by a questionnaire survey which is the methodology of this research. Regarding to the questionnaire for staffs , there are 20 respondents who participated in this research as well as there are 100 respondents who walk into and eat at Thai square restaurant who responded to the questionnaire for customers. The sample size of this research is Thai square restaurant (Minories). To conduct this research researcher used both primary and secondary data achieved by self à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" administered questionnaire. By analysing primary data from the questionnaire , the SPSS and Microsoft Office excel was used to achieve it. The statistical method was applied to analyse the result of this research. The results illustrate what factors could gain customer satisfaction , how successful the staff performance after being trained , how well staff can achieve companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ objectives. This research also provides recommendations for company and the further research so that company can improve the customer relationship management as well as can gain more customer loyalty in the future. Chapter 1 Introduction 1.1 Overview Nowadays, the consumer behaviour has been changed from the product centred stage to the customer cantered stage . Moreover, the customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s behaviour has been changing. Mudie Pirrie (2006 p.7 ). When they purchase product , they expect not only good product , quality and design but they also expect on service. Therefore, the service has been the significant reason in decision à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" making process. Since many business have been trying to improve and develop their strategy in order to meet the customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s need rather than the products. All organisationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s achievement has to give an important to the customers. Companies need to recognize all details of their customers such as the details about what customer need , who they are , what they buy, when and where they buy , how often and how much they spend. Moreover, companies have to evaluate approximately the customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ behaviour in order to predict what customers will do in the future. In addition, companies should establish the database of their customer and profile so that they can keep contact and advertise new promotion. These has been the knowledge of company which have been assumed as the asset of company. The managing customer relationships strategies is the essential process. By emphasizing on customer relationship management , companies may increase their abilities in knowing what customers need. Moreover, customer relationship management can help companies to target potential customers and to cut unnecessary cost and gain higher return on investment. As the staff motivation and training is a part of the Human Resource Management. There is a connection between customer relationship management and Human Resource Management because customer relationship management relies on staffà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s effectiveness and moral. Customer relationship management focuses on customers. To satisfy them , companies need to develop their staffà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ effectiveness and moral using motivation and training method. By doing so , companies may gain customer satisfaction and customer loyalty which are companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ objectives. Customer relationships management strategy has generally been companyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s strategy in managing customer relationship so that companies can retain their customers and increase customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ satisfaction and loyalty (Blazey 2006 p.136)(Kumar 2006 p. 156-157) Companies are focusing on customer retention , customer loyalty and customer satisfaction as a key management objectives. The one objective of customer relationship management is the advertising of customer loyalty .(Peppers Rogers 2004 p.12). The greatest benefit of customer service is customer loyalty (Tschohl Franzmeier 1996 p.20).Loyal customers are forcing organization changes.(Montano 2005 p.332)and can improve employee morale and productivity because customers respond positively to company. (Tschohl and Franzmeier 1996 p.20). The motivation for loyal customer based on better products, better service and better market value.(Montano 2005 p.332) . The manager is more likely to achieve improved levels of motivation(Nieto 2006 p.108) Companies have to motivate staff to participate in training process for improving staff performance so that they can achieve customer relationships management strategy. Organization tend to concentrate on performance management and rewards to elicit employee cooperation ,supporting the value management and employee relations in workforce. (Nieto 2006 p.108) 1.2 Aims and Objectives The objective of this research is to provide the strategies which can be employed by company in order to establish customer satisfaction and customer loyalty and to improve employeeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performance to achieve objective in the future. The objectives are that : 1. To evaluate the customer satisfaction which may lead to customer loyalty 2. To explain the relationship between motivation of staff and staff training as well as their effectiveness to improve customer service in order to satisfy customer 3. To establish the appropriate strategies for restaurants in terms of customer relationship management. 4. To give an advice for restaurant , staffs on how to improve their potential in providing so as to satisfy customer. 1.3 Organization background The Thai Square Restaurant Group was founded in 1996 when the first Thai Square opened in The Strand in central London. Thai square restaurant aims to maintain the leader status in the London market and sustainable growth of Thai restaurant market. The currently competition is intensive and the customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s behaviour have been changing very rapidly. Many competitors can soon gain the competitive advantage and also gain more market share eventually. The company creates challenges with authentic Thai food, fresh ingredients , excellent service as well as restaurantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s design and decoration to be unique and different from the competitors. To address these challenges, the company need to provide a great service in order to gain customer satisfaction and loyalty. Thai square has planned to add value to the customers by capturing customer feedback received by telephone, e-mail, and establishing a knowledge base of problems and solutions. (Interview with resta urant manager of Thai square (Minories) According to the restaurant review, the customers choose Thai square restaurant because its decoration , quality of food and service however the price of food and drink in Thai square restaurant when compare to the competitors is quite high especially todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s economics is critic and the customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ behaviour have been changing. They may choose to spent on food and drink which is not too expensive and value for money. Therefore, they will choose somewhere else which is cheaper even if it is not good as Thai square. The increasing competitors and changing consumer behaviour are forcing company to apply the managing customer relationships strategies such as customer loyalty , customer loyalty and customer service so as to meet customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ need. Thai square uses the concept of managing customer relationships strategies to be the optimal solution for this case. (Interview with manager of Thai square (Minories)) In the case of Thai square restaurant, the company grew at a lower rate than last year (2008). Net profit declined by 23% from last year due to economic crisis. In addition, it is affected from changing consumer behaviour.The company applied the idea of customer relationship strategies to meet the customer satisfaction and consequently increase customer loyalty. 1.4 Research Structure The structure of research consists of 6 chapters is as follows; Chapter 1: Introduction This chapter contains aims and objectives of research , organization background which is a case study of this research as well as the structure of this research. Chapter 2: Literature review This chapter focus on all theory and strategies that relate to this research such as motivation theory , staff training , customer service , customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. Chapter 3: Methodology This chapter describe what methodology can be employed in research and what methodology which is applied by this research. This chapter also contains the objectives and goal of this research, research design , sampling method , data collection and data analysis technique as well as the validity of this research. Chapter 4: Data analysis This stage is using Microsoft office excel (Excel) and SPSS program to analyses questionnaireà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s data. As well as this process will be evaluated data into percentage and mean score in order to show result by bar chart and pie chart in next step. Bar chart and pie chart will help to easily understand the research topic in each questionnaire Chapter 5: Conclusion This chapter provide the conclusion of the questionnaire result is provided to answer the research aims and objectives. Chapter 6 : Recommendations This chapter provide some recommendations for company and its employee as well as further research. Chapter 2 Literature Review As a result of competitive business situation , many businesses need to pay attention to the new method in retaining and creating new customers. Customer loyalty lead to profitability. Companies should develop positive relationship with customers by increasing customer satisfaction. Since customer satisfaction has been an important to establish long à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" term relationships which may result in customer loyalty and long à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" run businesses. It is widely known that the cost of retaining an existing customer is much cheaper than attaining a new customer. In addition, increasing a customer loyalty may be achieved by the level of service which is delivered by company. Companies need to develop the quality of service by increasing responsiveness , fulfilling customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s needs as well as providing consistent service. In many business industries, customer satisfaction has been used as the guiding principle for developing customer relationship management strategies as well as organizing business activities. 2.1 Theories of Motivation 2.1.1 Introduction The motivation in work is à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“The processes by which people are enabled to and induced to choose to behave in particular ways (Stevens 2005 p.90). As a result, The motivation could be maintained and improved if it was related with a seek for the methods by the job performance and productivity of members 2.1.2 Need Based Theories The previous idea of human motivation was based on the concept of self-satisfaction which human tries to meet with the happiness and relieve and tries to avoid sadness and distress. However ,this statement, whilst being apparently rational, cannot clarify many ways of human behavior. For example, why do the volunteer charity workers offer their time and attempt for nothing? Why do amateur athletes exert such high levels of effort, whereas a hedonist would prefer to relax? Researchers started to understand that human has other needs and desires which cannot be given an explanation under such a restricted observation of human behavior as hedonism. Therefore, there is the basic principle of needs theories which human motivation is resulted from the absence of an important needs.(Argenti 2002 p.89) Figure 2.1: The Motivation Framework Source: Griffin, R.W. (2003), Fundamentals of Management- Core Concepts and Applications (3rd edn), Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston 2.1.3 Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Yeatts and Hyten (1998 p.62) regarded motivation as a continually changing desire to fulfill changing needs. Maslow supposed that human needs arose in a hierarchy of importance, that was called à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"prepotencyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢. Only the motivators will play a role on the next stage of needs in the hierarchy. Therefore, the act as motivators would be ended when the stage of needs has been fulfilled and the person will pay directly the attention to the next stage of needs in the hierarchy. Maslowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s hierarchy of needs is shown in Figure Physiological needs (Food, water, shelter) Safety needs (security, protection) Social needs (sense of belonging, Love) Esteem needs (status, self-esteem) Actualisation Needs (Self-development) Self- Figure 2.2: Maslowà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s Hierarchy of Needs 2.1.4 Motivation-Hygiene Theory The research observed the link between job satisfaction and productivity with 200 engineers and accountants. The research outcome was the motivation hygiene theory of Herzberg, which proposes that certain factors (intrinsic factors)can result in job satisfaction, while others (hygiene factors) can prevent from dissatisfaction but cannot stimulate satisfaction. Herzberg at el (1959 p.102). Intrinsic factors are factors which are inherent to the job, for instance , the satisfaction of the job itself as well as the recognition and development for success , the availability of chances for the responsibility. On the other hand , hygiene factors are relevant to the environment in which the job performance is achieved. The hygiene factors consist of working conditions , supervision and interpersonal relations , salary as well as the policy and administration of organization. Besides, the importance prerequisite factor , which is needed to influence humanà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s motivation, is regarded as the hygiene factors. The motivation factor would be able to proceed on the staff and establish job satisfaction and productivity if there were à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"goodà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ hygiene factors which lead the staff to be in a form of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"no dissatisfactionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢. Consequently, to encourage staffs towards higher productivity, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“while it is important to ensure that the hygiene factors are correct, the manager must manipulate the motivation by attending to job-content issues (e.g. job-enrichment)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? (Carson at el 1997 p.136). Job- enrichment entails redesigning jobs to make them more interesting and challenging by allowing provisions to be made for increased responsibility, creativity and autonomy. The Herzbergà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ research has been criticized because of the research itself and the biased collection of sample (see Holloway 1991). Holloway (1991 p.1) stated that the clerical and production workers à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"did not produce the accounts he was seeking, he didnà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t sample themà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢. Goldthorpe et al (1968 p.11) suggests that other types of employee (such as assembly-line workers) may indeed view work in the way expressed by scientific management and be primarily motivated by financial incentives. A case of workers being primarily motivated by what Herzberg regards as a hygiene factor. The important point to be made from the criticism of Herzberg and from the work of Goldthorpe et al. is that no one theory, be it human relations or scientific management, is likely to apply universally. Different socio-economic groups appear to attach different meanings or have different orientations towards and work (Parker 1972 p.200). While different group s of people may have different attitudes towards work, they are also likely to react differently towards management policies. A model of worker motivation should therefore be able to differentiate between different types of worker and treat the wants, expectations and attitudes towards work as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"culturally determined variables, not psychological constantsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ (Goldthorpe 1968 p.178). As a result of the differences of each staff , company should apply a motivation policy so as to encourage an individual behavior and characteristic of its staff. To motivate people with different need and different characteristics is difficult but it would be rewarding and challenging. It can be said that hope is the magic component of motivation. The motivation factors help staffs to do a better job and to increase productivity(Steinberg 1976 p.123) ( Kamin 2002 p.87). The theorists propose that there are four strongest motivation factors which are the achievement : feeing personnel accomplishment for having done a job well , the recognition : being recognized for doing your job well ; for example , being complimented by your boss and receiving an award , the participation : being involved in your work ; having some responsibility for making decisions and the growth : having the opportunity for challenge in the job, such as the chance to learn skills and knowledge. (Kamin 2002 p.87). Manager not only should translate attitude and knowledge into action but also recognize that people have diverse motivations for asking to join a team (Nieto 2006 p.56).Therefore , manager should to be understand in how theories and models can be translated into useful practices (Currie and Procter 2003 p.14) in next step on training and practica l skill Motivation Factors Achievement The work itself Recognition Responsibility Growth Advancement Satisfaction No Satisfaction Hygiene Factors Supervision Company policy Relationship with supervisor Working conditions Salary Relationship with peers Status Security Dissatisfaction No dissatisfaction Figure 2.3: Motivation-Hygiene theory 2.2 Training 2.2.1 Definition of training Training has been defined as the planned activities on the part of an organization to increase job knowledge ,skills or to modify the attitudes and social behavior of the members in ways consistent with the goals of the organization and the requirements of the job (Robin 2003 p.1219)(Anderson and Neil 2001 p.280) Development has been defined as any attempt to improve managerial effectiveness through a planned and deliberate learning process . Methods of training needs / analysis needs. (Wilson 2005 p.149) Job analysis. Job description. Interview with the job holder. Interview with the manager / supervisor. Performance objective. Analysis of competencies. Reasons for training Poor performance and /or productivity. A change in working methods. Introduction of a new technology or equipment requiring new /different skills. Changed or new product range ,after sales etc; Replacement of employees who have been promoted or transferred, and training the employees who are all promoted and replaced. To improve workplace safety.(Ferris, et al 1995 p.154) 2.2.2 Training Methods 2.2.2.1 Attitude training An attitude training is an individualà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s characteristic way of doing or responding to a object or a situation. It is based on the experience and leads to certain behavior or the expression of certain opinions. 2.2.2.2 Methods of attitude training On the job experience placing the trainee within a group whose attitudes are thought to be appropriate .This socialization process tends to produce the desired attitude in the trainee. On the job training :This may involve à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Shadowingà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? or being attached to a senior employee who has the desired attitudes and personal qualities to influence the employee .(Bohlander 2001 p.235) On the job counseling à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"s senior member of the organization with the desired qualities and attitudes is appointed as the mentor to the employee. Off the job training :A group of employees engage on case study activity intended to emphasize relevant and desirable attitudes. Off the job exercises : Role-playing exercises. 2.3 Customer service The small companies should emphasize on creating positive relationships with their customers. Customers with positive dealings with companies are likely to be loyal. There are three fundamental idea which lead to the focus on delivering an outstanding customer service. Firstly, the high level of customer service increases customer satisfaction. Secondly, customer satisfaction leads to customer loyalty. Thirdly, small companies have a possibility in delivering greater customer service than large companies. From those three fundamental idea , it can be concluded that by not concentrating on customer service may endanger the achievement of customer satisfaction and customer loyalty. (Longenecker 2005 p.289) In general , good customer service is to meet customersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ expectations by giving the importance and value to them. Their experience in companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ service will decide that not only they want to continue doing the business with companies but also what will they give a word of mouth about companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ service. The good customer service is decided by customers who is given the service. As each customer has different needs and expectations. Therefore, companies need to designed service for individual customers. 2.3.1 Why customer service is important There are a research shows that when employees have a poor view of customer service , this will result in high turnover in companies. Therefore, to increase the quality of service could lead to increase employee retention and customer loyalty. Some people would like to do good work. They may lack skills and so they appear unmotivated, or they may be job-hopping because they have not found work environment that support their talents. By giving the support and training as well as service environment which focus on customer staffs could have tools they need to give customers what they want and deserve. (Kamin 2006 p.1) In addition ,training is important part to improve quality. Good staffs understand that training is crucial for being successful on the job and for future career opportunity. 2.3.2. The value of good service Service is important to customers as well as it is important for business development. The aim of companies by creating more value for customers is to retain customer to their companies. Everyone in companies should help to build value as well as their jobs aim at serving customers. When everyone understand their role in serving customers, there will be the results which are creating goodwill and increasing companiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ reputation , decreasing in the case of poor quality , improving the chances of cross à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å"selling and up à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" selling , gaining in the number of customer retention , reducing employee turnover , making more profit , establishing the goal and performance measure , having competitive advantages and being differences from competitors.(Zemke and Wood 1999 p.12) 2.3.3 How to provide good customer service Most customers have common expectations. They need companies to deliver an outstanding service , solve and realize their problems as well as make an apology if anything went wrong. To determine customer satisfaction companies need to meet their customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s needs. Moreover, there are some methods which could help to build customer satisfaction. Firstly , companies should give the attention to customers all the time. Secondly, companies have to listen to customers in the way of understanding what they really need.( Aguilar and Stokes 1995 p.3-7) 2.4. Customer Loyalty As the purpose of increasing profit by continually satisfying customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s need becomes more prevalent, the significance of meeting customers satisfaction and increasing their loyalty becomes more important in the competitive business (Disney 1999 p.491). As a result, business owner who want to be successful in the long term should encourage customers visits and make more sales. Good business owner have known and understood this situation well and devoted much of their consideration to ongoing and increasing sales through a variety of marketing activities. Business owner of subtle products should do the same for supporting competitive advantages( Disney 1999 p.491)(GrÃÆ' ¶nroos 1990 p.3). Moreover , since the need of focusing marketing attempt on maintaining existing customers grow to be the principle of marketers (GrÃÆ' ¶nroos 1990 p.3), the topic of customer loyalty, which aim to increase the regularity of a customers behavior and the possibility of cross-selling, has been received more consideration recently (Buttle and Burton 2002 p.217; Dick and Basu 1994 p.99). In this part, the customer loyalty, the different types of loyalty, characteristic of service and service loyalty and the benefits which companies may gain by increasing customer loyalty, plus the related factors which may affect customer loyalty, will be discussed. 2.4.1 The Origin and Meaning of Customer Loyalty The first approach is that loyalty is a surrogate of retention; in other words, a customer who keep on buying one product or service is a loyal customer. However, the second approach regards customer loyalty as a mental conception with an affective or attitudinal component, which could in fact reflect the essence of retention ( Buttle and Burton 2002 p.217;Ennew and Binks 1996 p.219). Loyalty is unlike repeat buying behavior; loyalty includes an attitudinal component which should firstly come to mind before repurchasing products or services (Buttle and Burton 2002 p.217; Dick and Basu 1994 p.99). Therefore , loyalty is a state of being faithful and honest to a particular product or service, and proving such faithfulness and honesty. On the other hand ,repeating purchase only represents frequent occurrence of the purchasing behavior which persists in a given period of time. The meaning of loyalty and repurchase have common characteristics because of the frequency of use increasing when there is a high level of loyalty (Liddy 2000 p.351). Consequently, frequent customer should not be regarded as loyal customer because frequent customer possibly purchases product or service from several different companies. Moreover, customers purchasing behavior could be changed by different situational factors. Buttle and Burton (2002 p.217) stated a characterization of loyalty from a companys head of customer relationship division: Its about having had experiences of things that you feel are important. Putting it in personal terms, you build loyalty to your friends through personal experiences youve shared. Customer loyalty really is like friendship (p. 218). This argument implied that although many customers may carry on to purchase with particular sellers, they could be unfaithful to the product or service sellers. Hence, by explaining the knowledge of customer loyalty, many attempts has been dedicated to classify the different types of customer loyalty. Moreover, to understand the differences between customer loyalty to goods and services as well as the typologies and the origins of customer loyalty, the benefits that businesses could obtain from increasing customer loyalty have been suggested by many authors. With the knowledge of both the characteristics of service loyalty and the promising benefits received from increasing customer loyalty as well as the importance of retaining existing customers could be obtained. 2.5 Customer Satisfaction Generally , most customers do not criticize about their dissatisfying experiences of product or service. However , they could change to another sellers ( Boshoff 1999 p.236). If the seller cannot offer what customer want, there are many other different sellers which provide similar products or services in the market. To sum up, sellers who want to attract or retain customers have to meet customers needs and satisfaction (Oliver 1998 p.14 ). Customer satisfaction has become increasingly to sellerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s attention during the past decades. Nevertheless, customer satisfaction has been one of the most unquestionable theory of the modern management field (Oliver 1996 p.11-12 ). The idea of customers satisfaction have a clear, reasonable concept. Moreover, it is commonly understood that customer satisfaction could lead to customer loyalty as well as result in higher future profit(Oliver 1996 p.11-12). In many business industries, customer satisfaction has been used as the guiding principle for developing CRM strategies as well as organizing business activities. However, customer satisfaction should not be an objective by itself. Customer satisfaction should be employed as a method for developing the companys performance (Martensen et al. 2000 p.544-53). A number of empirical researches have revealed a relation between customer satisfaction, customer loyalty, and the economic performance of a company while customer satisfaction has been evaluated in different ways, for example, stock market value, added market value and return on investment (Anderson et al. 1994 p.53-66 ; Eklof et al. 1999 p.514-22). On the other hand, the topic about the background of customer satisfaction, the relationship between customer satisfaction and customer loyalty as well as customers post-purchase behavior are presently arguable. To understand the idea of satisfaction undoubtedly and realize the benefits of customer satisfaction, relation between customer satisfaction and related matter are the main significance in this study. 2.5.1 Definition of Satisfaction Customer satisfaction has developed into one of the main purposes for business since the 1990s. Johnson and Fornell (1991 p.267-86) termed satisfaction as a general assessment of customerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s purchasing and consuming experience. In a few years later, Oliver (1996 p.11-12) provided the recognized definition of satisfaction, which he stated to be linkage with the theoretical and empirical evidence to date: Satisfaction is the consumers fulfillment response. It is a judgment that a product or service feature, or the product or service itself, provides (or is providing) a pleasurable level of consumption-relate fulfillment, including levels of under or over-fulfillment( p. 13). As a result of the importance of satisfaction, many businesses initiate to assign their job to evaluate how satisfied their customers are and to observe how satisfaction ratings affect customer retention and their profit (Bolton 1998 p.45-65). 2.5.2 Importance of Customer Satisfaction In 1990s, there was a prevalent knowledge that satisfaction ratings has been in fact a process to reach strategic purposes, for example, customer retention which is understood to have an effect on companies profits directly (Jones and Sasser 1995 p.88-101). To concentrate on increasing satisfaction is necessary since satisfied customers have more potential to come back the same shop or repurchase the same product or service (Reichheld 1996). Furthermore, customer satisfaction is regarded as condition for customer retention and loyalty, and apparently it is important to understand economic target such as market share, return on investment and profitability(Hackl and Westlund 2000 p.820-25).

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

An Investigation into the Effect of Organisation on Memory

An Investigation into the Effect of Organisation on Memory Research Previous research has been done by other psychologists into the affect of organisation on memory. In 1953 Bousfield asked participants to try and learn 60 words consisting of 4 categories, (animals, peoples names, professions and vegetables) with 15 examples of each all mixed up. Bousfield found that when participants free recalled (recalled in any order) they tended to cluster similar items, Eg; if someone recalled onion it was very likely that other vegetables followed. Although participants had not been told of the categories, the fact they recalled in clusters suggested that they had tried to organise the data. Bousfield called this trend categorical clustering. Another study took place in 1967 by Mandler, where subjects were given lists of random words and asked to sort them into a given number of categories (between 2 and 7). Once sorted the participants were asked to recall as many of the words as possible. The results showed that recall was poorest for those who used 2 categories and increased steadily by about 4 words per extra category. Those with 7 categories recalled approximately 20 more words than those who used 2. Mandler argued that the great number of categories used, the greater amount of organisation was imposed on the list. However my particular study is inspired and based on a later one by Bowers et al in 1969, in which data wads organised by conceptual hierarchy. In this study participants were required to learn a list of words which were arranged in a hierarchical structure. See appendix 1. The participants studied were split into 2 groups, on group were given the list in the correct hierarchical form, the other group were given the same words in a similar structure however the words were mixed up. Short-term memory is believed to have a capacity of 7 ±2 chunks of information, which can remain there for approximately 20 seconds without rehearsal. Chunking is a process that apparently increases the capacity of short-term memory by relating and combining the incoming information to knowledge that we already possess in long term memory. In chunking we organise information giving it a structure and meaning tit did not already have, so although we can only recall around 7 chunks a meaningful chunk can be very large Rationale ========= The results of Bowers study showed that the list organised by conceptual hierarchical order did indeed promote a higher recall of words than the list arranged in a random order. The organised list proved to have an average of 65% words recalled correctly whereas the disorganised list only recalled an average of 19% correctly. My study is based on the above conceptual hierarchy model. My model will mimic Bowers by having a main heading which splits into several subheadings in a hierarchical form, these headings will then have a list of appropriate words underneath. However, as Bower used the theme of minerals, splitting into categories such as alloys and metals etc. I am going to use the general theme of food splitting in fruits, salads and vegetables. Aim === The aim is to investigate the affect of organisation on memory by finding out if people remember more words from an organised list than they do from a disorganised list of words. Hypothesis ========== As there has been previous research into the affects of organisation on memory I will do a 1 tailed hypothesis.  ¨ People will remember more words from an organised list of words than from a disorganised, Null hypothesis ===============  ¨ There will be no difference between the number of words recalled from the organised list compared with the disorganised list. Any difference will be due to chance. Method Design ====== For this type of study into memory I will use an experimental method in the style of a laboratory experiment because I feel it is the most suitable method. It allows the precise control of variables and enables it to be replicated easily. It is the aim of this study to find out which variables are responsible for affecting memory. Its is only by the experimental method we can alter and control these variables. The design will be independent measures, which means that it consists of 2 groups of different individuals Therefore it is an independent measures design because we will obviously need 2 separate groups of individuals those who do the organised list and those who do the disorganised. The task takes place in the recreational centre in the college. This is in the participants own settings rather than in a laboratory. This should reduce the stress and pressure of the situation and promote natural behaviour. Variables ========= The variables are controlled whether the participant is given the organised list or the disorganised list to memorize.  ¨ Independent variable The independent variable is the factor which I have manipulated and controlled. In this case it is whether the list of words is organized into categories or whether it is disorganized.  ¨ Dependant variable The dependant variable is what is affected by the independent variable, it is also measurable. This is how successfully people remember. I can measure the dependent variable by recording how many words are recalled. *The two lists contain the same words, Universal words were chosen for the lists so that no one would have any expertise or advantage over anyone else. The theme of food is a universal topic that everyone has certain degree of knowledge about, less obvious everyday foods were also used to prevent people simply guessing at common foods. Sample and Participants ======================= In order to conduct my research I will need some people to study. The participants used are called a sample. The type of sample I have chosen to use is called an opportunity sample. This means that I will use anyone that is available at the time the experiment is conducted providing they are over the age of 16. I chose this method because it is the most convenient; I will study a total of 40 people. 20 will do the organised list (consisting of 10 male and 10 female) and the other 20 will do the disorgansied list (also consisting of 10 male and 10 female). The participants will all be students of Stafford College, therefore should be of similar ages and social background. Apparatus =========  ¨ Organized list Appendix 2  ¨ Disorganized list Appendix 3  ¨ Blank paper  ¨ Pen  ¨ Stopwatch Ethics ======  ¨ Participants must be over 16 years of age.  ¨ Participants should give informed consent to take part.  ¨ Confidentiality is of the utmost importance no names will be recorded  ¨ Subjects are free to withdrawn from the study at any point, even after it has been completed they can request their results are not used.  ¨ To avoid any psychological harm or damage to self-esteem, participants should be praised and thanked for taking part.  ¨ Subjects will be fully debriefed to the true nature of the study after completion. Procedure ========= The study is carried out in the recreational area of a college. Myself and my fellow researcher will approach students and by following the standard instructions (Appendix 4) will ask them if they would mind participating in the study. If they agree then they will be provided with either an organised list or a disorganised list of words to memorise. The participants are given 2 minutes to study the list of words, this is then taken off them and another 2 minutes is given for them to free recall and write down as many words as they can remember on a blank piece of paper. When this time is up each participant is fully debriefed. Each potential participant is approached addressed debriefed the same way using the prepared standardized instructions (appendix 4) This is so that what I say to each person doesnt have an influence on their behaviour or their ability to recall data. Controls All variables excluding the independent variable must be controlled and kept consistent for each participant. This will ensure the results obtained are as accurate and reliable as possible.  ¨ Each participant is given the same duration to memorize and recall the data, namely 2 minutes  ¨ The task will be carried out in the recreational area of the college for each participant.  ¨ The researcher will communicate with the participant using the prepared standardized instructions so all participants are treated the same.  ¨ Each participant will be debriefed and thanked in the same manner using the standardized instructions. Table of Results - The tables below show the number of words recalled by each participant for both the organized and disorganized list. Organized List Disorganized List Participant No. Words recalled Participant No. Words recalled 1 16 1 6 2 16 2 6 3 17 3 7 4 14 4 7 5 17 5 5 6 15 6 6 7 14 7 6 8 16 8 5 9 15 9 6 10 16 10 7 11 16 11 6 12 12 12 5 13 15 13 6 14 16 14 4 15 14 15 5 16 17 16 7 17 14 17 6 18 13 18 7 19 18 19 7 20 16 20 6 Measures of Central Tendency - Organized List Disorganized List Mean 15.35 6 Median 16 6 Mode 16 6 Range 6 3 15.35  ¾Ã‚ ¾ = 0.697 * 100 70% is the average number of words recalled from the organized list. 22 6  ¾Ã‚ ¾ = 0.272 * 100 27% is the average number of words recalled from the disorganized list. 22 Results Analysis The results displayed in the table clearly show that when words are arranged in an organized structure it does improve memory and the ability to store and recall information. The average number of words recalled from the organized list is 15.35, thats 70% of all the words recalled. Whereas the list arranged in a random order only recalled an average of 6 words, thats only 27% of the total words recalled. These figures show what an obvious effect organization imposes on memory. It seems to apparently increase memory capacity. Short-term memory has a limited capacity of approximately 7 ± 2 slots of information. This is supported by the fact that an average of 6 words were recalled from the disorganized list. However an average of 15 words were recalled from the disorganized list, this is much more data than can be stored in short term memory. This is evidence that a process called chunking took place. Chunking is a process which involves relating and combining information to knowledge already stored in long term memory. This apparently increases the capacity of short term memory by giving data a structure and meaning it did not already process therefore increasing the size of a meaningful chunk. So although we only have the ability to store 7 ± 2 slots of information in STM, A slot can be very large. In the case of the organized list, chunking would most likely occur by relating and combining the information into the already structured groups of salads, fruits and vegetables. From the results I have obtained I can confidently conclude that my hypothesis can be accepted that a greater number of words are indeed recalled from an organized list compared with the same list of words in a random order. I can therefore reject my null hypothesis that the results produced were not due to chance but due to the structure that organization imposes. Discussion -  ¨ Implications of the study My results support the hypothesis that people do indeed recall more words from an organized list than from a disorganized list. The average number of words recalled from the organized list was 15.35 compared to just 6 from the disorganized list, so this is clearly true. My study was based on a previous study by Bowers in 1969; The results I produced are comparable to those obtained by Bowers. Table comparing the result of my study and Bowers study My Study Bowers Study Average words recalled % of Words Average words recalled % of Words Organized 16.35 70% 16.9 65% Disorganized 6 27% 4.94 19% The results are quite similar although my results have a higher percentage of words recalled for both the organized and disorganized list compared to Bowers results, however it must be taken into account that more words were involved in Bowers list: 26 compared to the 22 words used on my list. This will have an affect on memory as the participant is challenged to remember more words. Also different themes were used, Bower used that of minerals Whereas mine involved food. This could affect the ability to recall especially if some of Bowers participants had more specialized knowledge then others, the same can be said for the theme of food. With these factors in mind, on the whole my results are similar to those obtained by Bowers.  ¨ Validity The study does show that organisation can aid how effectively we remember data and can be regarded as accurate and reliable. However the experimental method that was used lacks in ecological validity. Although the study took place in a recreational area, so therefore in the participants own settings, it is not however a natural everyday scenario to need to remember words in this manner, it is an artificial situation. Apart from these factors I did attempt to make the test as valid as possible. For example I tried to use everyday universal words that people would be familiar with and no one would have any particular advantage or knowledge over anyone else. Also I tried to make the variables as clear as possible because variables can affect peoples memory ie. Whether they are given the organised or disorganised list, However it is crucial that they werent told what the list is as itd give the participant some insight into the true nature of the experiment and give them an advantage. Overall, I think that my study is a good representation of the affect organisation has on memory.  ¨ Improving Validity To improve the validity of this research it needs to be performed in a more realistic scenario, an idea f this would be to change the method to make it more valid. I could do this by doing my research in the form of exam revision so it would be more like a field experiment. I could do this by creating a situation in which 2 groups are given one week to study for a small test. One group is encouraged to revise using an organised method, structured into categories and subheadings, whereas the other group are left to their own methods. Another idea is to use the same method used by Rubin and Olsen. They tried to create a valid test by asking university students to recall professor and they subjects they taught by giving one group an organised list to study and the other a list in random order.  ¨ Reliability I used the experimental method in the style of a laboratory experiment. This method is usually very reliable and accurate as it allows manipulation and full control over the variables (i.e. Whether the participant is given the organized or disorganized list) I can be fairly sure that if I repeated my research I would get very similar results to what I have obtained. I had strict controls and kept factors constant, such as time to memorize and recall, this should ensure that results recorded are accurate. I also used a set of standardized instructions and procedure which I followed when asking a student to participate, this was to make sure that what I said to each person didnt have any effect on their ability to recall words. However, the sampling method used called opportunity sampling can be seen as biased because the researcher chooses who to take part and who doesnt.  ¨ Improving Reliability To improve reliability I could have used the sampling technique of matched groups. This consists of 2 groups of people which are matched by age gender background etc. i.e. for every person there is someone to match them in the opposite group, Also I could use a wider range of participants of different ages and people from different parts of the country (they would still need to be matched for the other group) Also I could test a larger number of people than 20 per list.  ¨ Generalization of Findings A generalization could be made from my results that organization does indeed prove to increase the capacity of memory and the ability to recall. However it needs to be taken into account that the study was conducted in one small area and participants were all students of similar age and social background, so it can be argued that it is unreasonable and inaccurate to generalize and apply the results to everyone. For example, it would not be reasonable to apply the results of a small select group of young adults to the older generation. The study on the whole was not a natural scenario so it isnt reasonable to conclude that it is how people would behave in real life.  ¨ Application to Everyday Life This study could be applied to help people in everyday life. Some ideas of how it could be used is to aid in exam revision for example, by revising from notes arranged in an organised manner should organize the date in the brain and promote better recall in exams and therefore better exam results. Another idea is that it could help people with learning difficulties, if they learn from material arranged in an organized and structured format using subheadings etc it will give it a structure and meaning it did not already have and it should be easier to learn and store the information.

Monday, August 19, 2019

The Process of Entrainment :: essays research papers

Essay - The Dance of Life, Entrainment In a television interview, Bruce Lee said: â€Å"Empty your mind. Be formless, shapeless, like water. Now you put water into a cup, it becomes the cup. You put water in a bottle, it becomes the bottle. You put water into a tea pot, it becomes the tea pot. Now water can flow or it can crash. Be water my friend.† He was talking about dominantly expressing ones self through martial arts by letting go of rigid styles or patterns you’ve learned, and freely adapt in combat so as to fluidly move with your opponent, as in a dance, then to â€Å"crash† into your opponent in victory. What Bruce Lee described was a state of total awareness of one’s environment so as to continuously be able to entrain one’s self to it. Edward T. Hall wrote among many things in his book, The Dance of Life, of entrainment. Entrainment is the internal process that makes syncing possible with others and the environment around us. Day to day we move from one routine to another, or one appointment to another. When we do so, we adjust ourselves from one movement to another movement. When these movements require another person or a particular environment, entrainment is present. Entrainment, whether we’re aware of it or not, is something that we do everyday with varying success. Depending on our success entraining with any particular situation, there results either a fluid transition or a turbulent one. Since not many people are martial artists and will have difficulty relating to Bruce Lee, we’ll look at the process of entrainment using a different example that most people will have some experience in. Also, since the process of entrainment varies with every individual in their various experiences, and will prove quite impossible to describe in abstract mechanics, our example will be a specific and isolated occurrence. The example will be of a student’s experience while studying. A young girl is in the school library. She goes to the library because she feels that the environment there is peaceful and tranquil, perfect for studying. She sits there silently at one of the many tables fully engulfed in the book that she’s reading. Nothing in the room disrupts her. The sound of pages being flipped at the table to her left doesn’t bother her.

Jacksonian Era: The Removal Policy Essay -- president, native americans

Andrew Jackson, who was the 7th President of the United States, signed the Indian Removal Act in May 28th, 1832 and this policy granted Andrew Jackson the right to forcibly move the Native Americans to land west of the Mississippi. Even though â€Å"it is presumed that any explanation of Jackson’s purposes is an attempt to justify the mass killing of innocent people†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Remini, 45) some would say his childhood affected him; seeing and hearing Indians Attacking places near his home. Or how he was the second President to make it into the business without an education. Some people thought that with gold being found in Georgia, this led many new white settlers looking to buy land from the Cherokee Indians. Although a lot could be said about Andrew Jackson’s Removal Policy one thing is for certain, the way the Policy was carried out was a horror. If you could just imagine this with your heart and soul how the policy was carried out, then you could see how terribl y the Indians were treated. All because they occupied the land they were given in a treaty. The policy affected many people, some in good ways; some in bad. Obviously the only people this policy affected in a good way were the white settlers looking to buy the Indians land. The Chickasaw Indians were the only Tribe to not have land in the New Territory even though they were promised it. They sold their land for $500,000 to the United States Government, and when they showed up and had no land they decided to lease land from Choctaws. The purchase of the land from the other tribe created a trust fund that gave the Chickasaw Indians up to $75,000 a year, and then enabled them to have a cash economy and not rely on the natural environment (Kidwell). The unfortunate situation in this enti... ...med, TeacherServe, National Humanities Center. National Humanity Center. 19 Feb. 2014 . Langguth, A. J. Driven West: Andrew Jackson and the Trail of Tears to the Civil War. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2010. 106+. Potter, Woodburne. The war in Florida. Ann Arbor: University Microfilms, 1966. 14+. Satz, Ronald N., Robert Vincent Remini, and Anthony F.C. Wallace. "Primary Documents in American History." Indian Removal Act: Primary Documents of American History (Virtual Programs & Services, Library of Congress). The Library of Congress. 18 Feb. 2014 . Smith, William. Expedition against the Ohio Indians. Ann Arbor: University Microfilms, 1966. Iii+. Spencer, Oliver M. Indian captivity. Ann Arbor: University Microfilms, 1966. 58+.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Oedipus the King: Bliss in Ignorance :: Oedipus Rex Essays

Oedipus Rex - Bliss in Ignorance One of the most memorable and meaningful Socratic quotes applies well when in context of Sophocles' Theban Trilogy. "The unexamined life is not worth living," proclaims Socrates. He could have meant many things by this statement, and in relation to the play, the meaning is found to be even more complex. Indeed, the situation of Oedipus, king of Thebes, the truth of this statement is in question. Would Oedipus have been better off if he was blind to the knowledge of his birth and the fate which was foretold to someday befall him? Truly though, his life would have been a far better and easier path had he never known about his true origins. His life in Corinth would have been long and prosperous, and Thebes would have lived on under King Laius. In fact, everyone would have been better off in the long run if Oedipus had not ventured out beyond the walls of Corinth. So is it worth living an examined life? Socrates had made this statement long after the creation of the Theban Trilogy. In the context of his own time, this was meant to imply that life must be examined and reflected upon, known and discovered by each individual philosopher to better enrich life for all. Yet in terms of Sophoclean drama, specifically Oedipus Rex, this was meant in a vastly different way. The unexamined life was one that was in the dark, unknown as to what fate lied beyond every turn and irony of living. Oedipus, up to the point in which he heard the comment in the tavern in Corinth, lived an unexamined life. To Socrates, he was an unfulfilled man, one who deserved to know more, one who was not complete. However, in a much less metaphysical sense, Oedipus' life was complete, in that he had all that he needed, and was living a happy and fruitful life. As the drama progresses, he finds out more and more, learning exactly what the implications of his birth was, he suffers the fate for examining his life. So what Socrates had meant, that the life which was not rich with self exploration and reflection was not worth living, was indeed different than its application in terms of Oedipus, who's life was unexamined, yet complete. The question arises, what would life have been like, if Oedipus had not discovered his true origins? Oedipus the King: Bliss in Ignorance :: Oedipus Rex Essays Oedipus Rex - Bliss in Ignorance One of the most memorable and meaningful Socratic quotes applies well when in context of Sophocles' Theban Trilogy. "The unexamined life is not worth living," proclaims Socrates. He could have meant many things by this statement, and in relation to the play, the meaning is found to be even more complex. Indeed, the situation of Oedipus, king of Thebes, the truth of this statement is in question. Would Oedipus have been better off if he was blind to the knowledge of his birth and the fate which was foretold to someday befall him? Truly though, his life would have been a far better and easier path had he never known about his true origins. His life in Corinth would have been long and prosperous, and Thebes would have lived on under King Laius. In fact, everyone would have been better off in the long run if Oedipus had not ventured out beyond the walls of Corinth. So is it worth living an examined life? Socrates had made this statement long after the creation of the Theban Trilogy. In the context of his own time, this was meant to imply that life must be examined and reflected upon, known and discovered by each individual philosopher to better enrich life for all. Yet in terms of Sophoclean drama, specifically Oedipus Rex, this was meant in a vastly different way. The unexamined life was one that was in the dark, unknown as to what fate lied beyond every turn and irony of living. Oedipus, up to the point in which he heard the comment in the tavern in Corinth, lived an unexamined life. To Socrates, he was an unfulfilled man, one who deserved to know more, one who was not complete. However, in a much less metaphysical sense, Oedipus' life was complete, in that he had all that he needed, and was living a happy and fruitful life. As the drama progresses, he finds out more and more, learning exactly what the implications of his birth was, he suffers the fate for examining his life. So what Socrates had meant, that the life which was not rich with self exploration and reflection was not worth living, was indeed different than its application in terms of Oedipus, who's life was unexamined, yet complete. The question arises, what would life have been like, if Oedipus had not discovered his true origins?

Saturday, August 17, 2019

A Good Man Is Hard to Find – Reflection Paper

Character as Reflection in O’Connor’s, â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† In O’Connor’s â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find,† the grandmother is faced with her own moral beliefs. Throughout the story, she proves to be self center and hypocritical. Although her family wants to go to Florida for vacation, she tries to persuade them to go to Tennessee because she wants to see her â€Å"connections. † She uses scare tactics and guilt as tools. Appearances are also important to her, she believes she is judged by her appearance and she judges other by theirs.She dresses well so others will know she â€Å"is a lady. † She presents herself as a good, Christian woman, but as the plot unfolds, her true colors are exposed. When she is confronted with the Misfit, her only concern is herself. For instance, when her family is taken into the woods to be killed, she tells the Misfit that he is â€Å"a good man† and because she is a lady, he wouldn’t shoot her. Also, trying to save herself, she frequently tells him he should pray. Ironically, she doesn’t pray for herself. Similar essay: Reflection Paper Martial LawInstead, The Misfit seems to question the existence of God. He doesn’t admit to his crimes and, therefore, doesn’t feel he should be punished for them. He states he doesn’t remember doing them and this is the reason he now signs his name, for proof. Similarly, the grandmother doesn’t take responsibility for her actions. She doesn’t say she is sorry for placing the family in this situation. As she continues to discuss The Misfits salvation, her own faith is shaken and she is forced to question her own beliefs.She questions whether Jesus raised the dead. The Misfit states that if he had seen Jesus raise people from the dead, his life would be different. This is a pivotal moment for the two. They make a connection and the grandmother realizes they are more alike than she thought, neither is truly good and both are misfits. Connor Flannery. â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† Short Fiction Classic and Cont emporary. Sixth ed. Pearson Prentice Hall X. J. Kennedy. Dana Gioia. Longman, New York 2000. 330-346.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Ancient Mesopotamia and the Epic of Gilgamesh

The epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest epics known to man, reflects the challenges of life in ancient Sumer by dealing with them metaphorically. The most important challenges in ancient Sumerian life were deforestation and flooding. After Enkidu and Gilgamesh meet and become friends, Gilgamesh proposes that they go to the cedar forest and cut down all the trees. Though Gilgamesh’s reasoning for cutting down all the trees isn’t very reasonable, he still persuades Enkidu to come along with him. â€Å"At dawn Gilgamesh raised his ax and struck at the great cedar. When Humbaba heard the sound of falling trees, he hurried down the path that they had seen but only he had traveled. † 1 Gilgamesh and Enkidu cutting down trees was a metaphor for the ongoing problem of deforestation in ancient Mesopotamia. Because Gilgamesh and Enkidu cut down the trees that were sacred to the gods, the gods cursed mankind with fire and drought. â€Å"Civilization has never recognized limits to its needs. † 2 In ancient Mesopotamia, the land was savagely deforested. In this way, deserts formed, and civilization declined. Gilgamesh yearns for immortality, and chases after the dream of being immortal. When he fails to achieve immortality, he returns to his town and realizes that because he built the wall of Uruk and other constructions and because they would last long after he was gone, he would thereby gain immortality. â€Å"He looked at the walls, awed at the heights his people had achieved and for a moment- just a moment- all that lay behind him passed from view. † 3 In the epic of Gilgamesh immortality is a theme that frequently recurs, and is a metaphor for how Sumerians, as like all humans, desire immortality but cannot achieve it. Also, a possible explanation for the reason humans do not have immortality is because Gilgamesh did not obtain immortality. Humans living in ancient Mesopotamia had difficult relations with gods; they were responsible for natural disasters, which is how the people of ancient Sumer rationalized floods, drought, famine, and locusts. Supposedly, the gods had human emotions and could become stubborn, angry for no reason, jealous, and have other petty emotions. With the gods’ ability to create those natural disasters and at the same time harbor negative emotions, humans were fearful of the god’s wrath, since the gods could be easily provoked. Before the epic of Gilgamesh, a tremendous flood is released when the gods realize how imperfect humanity is. Utnapishtim had built a large boat and every living thing was stowed away inside of it while the flood raged. When the flood recedes, Utnapishtim is the only human left alive along with other animals. He lets the animals free, and Enlil blesses him with immortality. The power of the gods in the epic of Gilgamesh is a metaphor for the flooding of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. Because the gods were violent and unpredictable, they could create disasters among the Sumerians and they could grant immortality. ’Acts of God,’ such as flooding, drought, famine, or plagues of locusts, affected entire communities. Floods were generally local but extremely destructive, causing a high death rate. † 4 Floods were one of the largest problems in Ancient Mesopotamia. The rivers could also be harsh and unpredictable because their flooding devastated ancient Mesopotamia. Ancient Sumerians could also suffer from droughts, famine, locust, and other natural disasters. On the other hand, they could gain abundant harvest when nature was compliant. Many challenges of life in ancient Sumerian history are reflected in the epic of Gilgamesh. Deforestation and flooding were the main issues faced in ancient Mesopotamia. These challenges were woven into the epic tale of Gilgamesh as metaphors; â€Å"The epic of Gilgamesh shows an understanding of ecological processes and the consequences of human action on the earth†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 5 The epic of Gilgamesh was proof that Ancient Sumerians caused their own demise by deforestation, which also led to more flooding and other natural disasters.