Cigarette Tax Free Essays

Section 1: â€Å"Cigarette tax hike sparks panic buying† By Ashley Hall Updated Thu Apr 29, 2010 What is the main issue presented in the media report? Discuss what has actually happened: In the year of 2010, the Federal Government raised taxes on cigarettes by an extra 25 per cent, resulting in an increase price of $2. 16 to every pack of 30 cigarettes. A proclamation stated by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on the crackdown on Internet advertising of cigarettes was mentioned. We will write a custom essay sample on Cigarette Tax or any similar topic only for you Order Now Mr. Rudd also affirmed ‘the government will spend $27. million on an anti-smoking campaign (Hall, 2010) This media report outlines the publics impulsive buying of cigarettes upon the government’s mention of the very rapid increase in taxes, thus resulting in an upward increase in price. It mentions the dismays retailers and tobacconists faced due to the tax hike. Further more, mentioning the concerns of philanthropists and other individuals. Highlight the reason for the issue being raised: This issue was one that arose quite soon after its announcement, as it impacted the country in its majority in numerous ways. The justification behind this issue was the government’s lack of planning. The release of the tax hike occurred only several hours before its prospected start of midnight that night, which ultimately left little or possibly even no time to adjust and prepare for the subsequent price increase. (Hall, 2010) Outline what possible impacts this change could have: The unexpected change posed many impacts on an abundant area of the population. The change impacted the consumers (smokers), the suppliers/producers, retailers/tobacconists, charity workers and the government. The sudden publication of the price increase would lead to a majority of smokers purchasing larger amounts of cigarettes than usual, in an attempt to purchase the product at a cheaper price rather than at its increased price. The retailers/tobacconists face the prospects of higher demands and physical impossibilities such as lack of stock and time to prepare. Although on the contrary as stated by the executive director of Quit Victoria â€Å"100,000 people will quit smoking as the result of the price increase and 250,000 children will not take up the habit†. (Hall, 2010) From another viewpoint, the rapid increase in tax had an immediate negative impact on the number of people seeking assistance. This is solely the case, as a widely held proportion of smokers come from low-income groups, â€Å"In fact, people from low-income groups are 13 times more likely to quit smoking in the face of a prime increase than those from higher income groups†. (Hall, 2010) Who are the key stakeholders that are impacted by the issue outlined in the report? The key groups that may be impacted by the issues raised in this report are ultimately the key stakeholders; i. e. he customers, suppliers, regulators and competitors. The customers (smokers) are faced with the increased price on packets of cigarettes. Which ultimately puts an excise burden on consumer’s income. The suppliers were faced with a rapid increase in demand in the hours before the implementation of the tax increase, and perpetual demand between the periods after the tax. This is due to the noti on that smokers are not willing to go cold turkey over night simply due to an increase of $2. 16, but ultimately the possible immediate decline in number of packets bought/sold in the event prior to the tax increase. Suppliers are also faced with the concern of consumers opting for substitute goods (This means a good’s demand is increased when the price of another good is increased) for example replacing cigarettes with chewing gum (even considering that cigarettes are inelastic). (McTaggart, 2010) Regulators, which in this case are the Government, are faced with constant scrutiny regarding their decisions and lack of planning. However, this tax hike increased an extra $5 billion over four years, which the Government would put towards its health and hospitals overhaul (Hall, 2010). So evidently, back into the economy. An increase in people seeking assistance will also place possible strains on charity workers, as people will continue to spend money on cigarettes rather than necessities. Competitors are also faced with a possible increase in demand, as the price of one good is increased, the demand of the substitute good is increased (McTaggart, 2010). Students and groups of people from low socioeconomic status will be directly affected the greatest. For those who come from high-income classes, their wages are generally increasing as the 25 per-cent increment is implemented, which ultimately does not substantially affect their income as a whole. However, students and people from low socioeconomic status groups are giving up necessities of life to feed their smoking addictions. What economic theories can be dawn from this media report? Opportunity cost: Graph 1: The theory of Opportunity cost (Graph 1): the amount of other products that must be sacrificed to obtain an extra unit of any product. The opportunity cost refers to the benefit forgone from the best alternative use of resources. (McTaggart, 2010) As the economy moves from point B towards point C, it must give up successively larger amounts of good B to obtain the same equal increment in good C (Layton, 2009). In relation to cigarette tax, people from lower income groups are giving up the necessities in order to feed their smoking addiction. Demand, Supply and Elasticity: Graph 2: The demand for cigarettes increased during the period of the government’s announcement and until midnight when the price increase was implemented: i. e. a change in consumer’s expectations about future prices brings forward an increase in consumption. (McTaggart, 2010) Graph 3: Change in demand is where the demand has shifted to the left hand side. Rise in price will see a greater quantity supplied (quantity will rise), shift in supply curve. McTaggart, 2010), (Layton, 2009). From midnight the equilibrium shifted to the left side along the demand curve by the price increase. As the result, as it was mentioned above, the quantities demanded decreased, due to the tax increase. Result in consumer and producer paying the burden of the tax increase. (McTaggart, 2010) Section 2: â€Å"Apple Shares hit as iPhone sales Fall Short† Sky News Oct 19, 2011 What is the main issue presented in the media report? Apple, one of the leading technological companies in the world has recorded revenues uncharacteristically short of expectations. Wall street analysts predicted iPhone sales during their fourth quarter earnings to be ’20 million sales’, with a short fall of ’17 million sold’. With overall revenues recorded at $28. 3 billion, substantially short of expectations (Sky News, 2011). Apple new chief executive ‘Tim Cook’ does not seem concerned about the recorded short fall of the company since the passing of Co-founder Steve Jobs. Recorded losses in revenue for Apple fourth quarter could be significantly the result of many factors (Sky News, 2011). The main contributing factor, being the short after release of the iPhone 4s. Due to the release of the iPhone 4s, consumers were withholding from purchasing older models of the iPhone, with the thought ‘I would rather wait a litter longer to purchase a new and updated version’. Ultimately the thought of consumers’ posses’ greater opportunity for Apple sales in the future but resulted in revenue falling short in their fourth quarter. The recorded revenue had a negative impact on the company. With the actual versus predicted sales of the iPhone falling short, Apple shared dropped 5% upon the announcement (Sky News, 2011). A drop in share price negatively affected the company, especially since a drop in share price has now only occurred since the passing of co-founder Steve Jobs. A drop in share price could result in consumers questioning whether they should continue to purchase Apple products, or if the drop in share price is a signaling factor that there is a higher demand for substitute goods. This could be the case as many other leading technological companies are constantly trying to innovate new and improve models of phones, laptops and tablets to keep up with Apples constant improvements. For example Samsung release of their new tablet caused large amounts of disputes between themselves and Apple, as Apple saw a large opportunity for threat to sales of their iPad. Although this is the case, the new iPhone 4s has sky rocketing sales of four million in its first three days on the market. As new chief executive ‘Tim Cook’ said: â€Å"customer response to iPhone 4s has been fantastic, we have momentum going into the holiday season, and we remain really enthusiastic about our product pipeline. † (Sky News, 2011). Who are the key stakeholders that are impacted by the issue outlined in the report? The key groups that may be impacted by the issues raised in this report are ultimately the key stakeholders; i. e. the customers, suppliers, shareholders and competitors. The customers are ultimately those who predict they continuing success of the company, without customer sales Apple would not exist. The hit of Apple shares could negatively impact consumer sales. A decline in the share price could signal a train of though in consumers mind that possibly there is a need for greater innovative or the threat of higher competitors in regards to Apple products. If consumers are being told that a company is recording predicted short falls in their expected revenue consumer might be apposed to their products, resulting in customers opting for substitute goods. (McTaggart, 2010) The suppliers in this report are in fact Apple and all other retailers that stock Apple products. The short fall of iPhone sales resulted in a decrease in revenue. Which ultimately lead to a decrease in the price of Apple shares. A decrease in share price could lead to a decline in possible sales, which results in a supplier surplus. Suppliers have a greater number of products to sell in relating to consumers who are interested in buying their product (McTaggart, 2010). In the event of the release of the iPhone 4s, suppliers are faced with higher consumer demand, which could result in a shortage of iPhone 4s in relation to consumer demands. Apples brand name and reputation is a very important asset to the company, with this issue being raised, it could have an impact on one of their largest assets. Shareholders, are those individuals or companies who have financially invested an interest in Apple, a decrease in share price negatively impacts shareholders. Decline in the share price by 5% results in a decrease in the value of shareholders wealth. The final group that is impacted by issues of a decline in Apples share price is competitors. This could have a positive impact to competitors. Negative public announcement over such a large and dominant company could result in a substantial amount of consumers opting to purchase products competitors offer, simply due to the decisions of other individuals. A consistent pattern in the public shows, that if a product is negatively represented in more than one way consumers will be very reluctant to purchase that product. Resulting in a positive advantage for competitor’s products. The group that would be impacted the most would be the suppliers. They are the key foundation of the company, without continued success the company could face greater hardships and decline in sales leading to a decline in revenue and share price as which occurred in the month of October 2011. What economic theories can be drawn from this media report? Supply and Demand: Graph 1: Demand curve during period of Apple reporting shortfall of sales and decreased revenue in recording during their fourth quarter. The graph above is a representation of changes in demand. Apple change in demand during this period is caused by consumer expectations, tastes and preferences. Where the soon to be released iPhone 4s resulted in the decrease of current iPhone sales. (McTaggart, 2010), (Layton, 2009). Graph 2: The Above graph is a representation of the supply and demand curve during the first release of the iPhone 4s. The supple curve remains constant (from period before and after the release of the iPhone 4s). Where significant changes occurred in relationship to the demand curve. The increase in demand which resulted in a right ward shift of the demand curve was a direct result of ‘taste or preferences of consumers’ a key determinant in the changes in demand (Layton, 2009). This was the case as consumers withheld from purchasing older models of the iPhone with anticipation of purchasing the newer and improved version of the iPhone (iPhone 4s). This resulted in Apple experiencing greater quantities demanded as stated in the article â€Å"iPhone 4s has sky rocketing sales of four million in its first three days on the market†. Change in demand results in change in new equilibrium (Sky News, 2011). References: McTaggart, D. , Findlay, C. , and Parkin, M. (2010), Economics, Sixth Edition, Addison-Wesley, Sydney Lecture Slides, Blackboard, University of Technology, Sydney, Insearch (2011), Economics for Business Unknown. 2011, ‘Apple shares hit as iPhone sales fall Short’, Sky News, YAHOO, viewed 4 November 2011, http://news. yahoo. com/apple-earnings-hit-drop-iphone-sales-220800212. html Layton, A. , T. Robinson and I. Tucker (2009), Economics for Today, Cengage Learning Australia, Australia: South Melbourne. Faculty of Business (2010), Guide to Writing Assignments (3rd ed. ), Faculty of Business, University of Technology, Sydney How to cite Cigarette Tax, Papers

Parents of teenagers are doing a good job free essay sample

A team led by Professor Frances Gardner from the Department of Social Policy and Social Work at the University of Oxford found no evidence of a general decline in parenting. Their findings show that differences in parenting according to family structure and income have narrowed over the last 25 years. However, the task of parenting is changing and could be getting increasingly stressful, particularly for some groups. Parents and teenagers are choosing to spend more quality time together than 25 years ago, with 70 percent of young people regularly spending time with their mothers in 2006 compared to 62 percent in 1986. For fathers, the figure had increased from 47 percent to 52 percent.This research follows a Nuffield-funded study in 2004, which identified an increase in both adolescent conduct and emotional problems over the last 25 years. Despite the rise, this latest study shows that today’s parents are more likely to know where their teenage children are and what they are doing than their 1980s equivalents. We will write a custom essay sample on Parents of teenagers are doing a good job or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The proportion asking what their children were doing has increased from 47 percent in 1986 to 66 percent in 2006. Differences in the monitoring of teenage children, according to family type and income, have narrowed. For example, in 1994, 14-15-year-olds from single-parent families were more likely to be out late without their parents knowing where compared with two parent families, but by 2005 this difference had disappeared.Professor Gardner said: ‘We found no evidence for declining standards of parenting overall, and this leads us to believe this factor does not generally explain the rise in problem behavior. ’ Parents of teenagers are increasingly likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety themselves, particularly one-parent families and those on low incomes. For example, the proportion of parents from the most economically disadvantaged group who reported symptoms of depression and anxiety had increased by more than 50 percent between 1986 and 2006.The research highlights a different set of challenges for parents compared with 25 years ago. Young people now are reliant on their parents for longer, with higher proportions of 20-24-year-olds living with their parents. Many more remain in some kind of education or training into their late teens. In addition, the development of new technology, such as mobile phones and the Internet, has created new monitoring challenges for parents.Today’s parents have had to develop skills that are significantly different and arguably more complex than 25 years ago, and this could be increasing the stress involved in parenting,â€⠄¢ Professor Gardner said. The research, commissioned by the Nuffield Foundation for a briefing paper, Time trends in parenting and outcomes for young people, was authored by Dr. Ann Hagell, Head of the Nuffield Foundation’s Changing Adolescence Programme.The research team reviewed published evidence and analyzed two sets of UK nationally representative data. The first was the British Household Panel Survey (BHPS), with annual data on parenting reported by teenagers and their parents from 1994 onwards. The second data source comes from a related Nuffield-funded project, led by Dr. Stephan Collishaw, to study causes of trends in youth mental health.

harley davidson inc Essay Example For Students

harley davidson inc Essay HARLEY DAVIDSON INC. MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRYINTRODUCTIONThe purpose of this report is to develop a strategic corporate objective for HarleyDavidson Inc., a publicly traded, employee owned manufacturer of heavyweight motorcycles, recreational and commercial vehicles, military defense items, and small engines, distributing its products to domestic and international markets targeting all men and women of all ages. INDUSTRY AND COMPETITIVE MARKETThe industry under study is the motorcycle industry consisting of five major manufacturers: one American (Harley Davidson), and four Japanese (Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki) and some European companies (mainly BMW of Germany and some other Italian companies). Most companies market their motorcycles and accessories on a worldwide basis, handling international trade through foreign distributors and domestic sales through franchised outlets. Industry sales of motorcycles were shrinking in the early l990s because of the recession and the competition from computers and electronic products decreasing consumers discretionary income. Sales of accessories and parts make up 36% of total retail sales and is a viable area for producers to explore because people want something to differentiate their bikes. Previously, motorcycles were viewed as a cheap means of transportation. By 1992, they came to be viewed as a recreational, or a luxury item. This new perception of motorcycles led to the introduction of more expensive models with higher prices. This led to the introduction of consumer financing, one of the fastest growing service areas in the motorcycle industry. MISSIONHarleys strategic objective is to continue to provide safe, high technology heavyweight bikes and keep customer satisfaction at high levels. This quality vision more than doubled Harleys market share and increased its brand loyalty. EXTERNAL PLANNING PREMISESCUSTOMERSThey can be divided into 2 categoriesmen and women. Men.A. Men under 30. This group accounts for 44% of all sales. Therefore, a great opportunity exists here because of the groups size. This groups members buy motorcycles for their transportation and recreation needs. Men in this group buy more of mopeds, scooters and entry level lightweight road bikes. B. Men between 30 and 50. This age group makes up 45k of buyers another large area providing opportunities for firms. The motorcycles most frequently purchased are the heavyweight tourers and cruisers. Many buyers are married couples looking for an alternative to taking the car out for weekend drives to the country. C. Men over 50. This group accounts for about 11% of motorcycle sales. The heavyweight touring class and the middleweight road bike categories account for most of the sales here. Women. This group is a segment that is growing at a fast rate, thereby representing an opportunity area. Firms to be successful here are to provide smaller, easier to handle, comfortable, and good quality bikes to build up brand loyalty. PRODUCTSThree types of products/services are being offeredmotorcycles, accessories, and financing services, all related to the sale of the main product motorcycles. Motorcycles: It includes mopeds or scooters (with engines under 125cc which are used as an alternative to walking), accounting for about 17% of total motorcycle sales; lightweight motorcyclesroad bikes, dirt bikes, dual purpose bikes (with engines ranging from 125cc to 499cc), accounting for 51% of sales; sport motorcyclesstreet bikes, and superbikes (with engines ranging from 450 to 749cc) accounting for 13% of sales; heavyweight motorcycles cruisers, tourers (ranging from 750cc to 1500cc) accounting for 19% of sales. Accessories: Aftermarket accessories, such as saddle bags, higher windshields, customized seats, and clothing items are produced or contracted to be produced by all leading manufacturers. Since these items realize high profits and strengthen customer relations and customer loyalty, this area is providing an opportunity for companies. To succeed here, firms provide a wide product line, of stylish items, and aggressively advertise/market them. Financing Services: As prices of motorcycles increased well above the reach of many motorcycle enthusiasts, manufacturers begun to set up consumer credit arrangements falling into 3 categories consumer, dealer, and corporate financing. Financing services are vital for success in the industry and firms unable to provide them will lose market share. To succeed here, firms are to provide a wide variety of flexible (in terms of maturity and payment arrangements) plans. MARKETSAlthough motorcycles are sold internationally, 3 main geographic markets comprise the bulk of motorcycle salesNorth America, Asia, and Europe. The largest is the North American Market (USA and Canada account for about 60% of this market) accounting for 60% of worldwide motorcycle sales. With the baby generation aging, opportunities exist for the penetration of new markets. The Japanese marketaccounting for a great chunk of the Asian Marketis an untapped one for foreign manufacturers. Government regulations and trade policies make it difficult for foreign manufacturers to enter though. Most Asians consider motorcycles as a basic means of transportation. Major target areas include China, Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam. The European Market is another market with great potentials since Europeans have a higher disposable income and enjoy a higher standard of living. Eastern Europe is not offering a good deal mainly because of its unstable political and economic environment. To succeed in these markets, firms are to modify products to meet local needs, provide after sales service, expand distribution networks, create strong customerCOMPETITIONCompetition in the motorcycle industry consists of only a handful of producers worldwide. The Japanese producersHonda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzukiare producing a full line of motorcycles ranging from scooters to heavyweights, and together control the largest share of the market. Their wide product line though has also created some customer complaints to them (especially true for Honda and Kawasaki) for low quality service. This significantly decreased their market shares. Japanese companies success began with copying other products, but evolved to depend on innovative designs and technology. Harley Davidson is producing heavyweight motorcycles emphasizing good quality product and after sales service, thereby building up brand loyalty. Leonardo Da Vinci EssayAlternative 3, which is the one that I recommend, capitalizes on Harleys strengths. The company is to produce only heavyweight motorcycles, thereby focusing its RD on producing safe, good quality products. The company is to guarantee a high resale value and provide good after sales service. Also its decision to stay with FMCO financing gives the company an additional financial advantage to be used in targeting specific marketing niches. Customers under 30 years of age are to be provided with safe, stylish, high quality products at reasonable prices, thereby increasing brand loyalty. Safety issues are not being focused by the Japanese and that gives Harley a competitive edge here though they can provide their products at lower prices. Customers from 30 to 50 years of age are to be provided with high performance, safe products, building up Harleys brand loyalty that is considered the strongest, especially in the domestic market. Customers over 50 years of age a re to be provided with comfortable, easy to handle bikes to increase their convenience. Foreign bikes are lacking this key and are expected to be outperformed by Harley. Harleys line of accessories (more emphasis on clothing) is to be expanded by providing a wider product line. That by itself would advertise its products and increase brand loyalty. Its plan to focus on the domestic market with 60% emphasis and on the foreign market with 40% emphasis is both good and bad. It is good in the sense that international demand for Harley products is increasing and that would increase the companys revenues since it will expand its distribution network, provide after sales service, and appear there with an already established brand loyalty. It is bad though to expand with 40% emphasis in the foreign markets because Harley is not strong in meeting consumer demand that is expected to grow even more and dissatisfy both domestic and foreign customers. Surely, Harley can solve this problem by get ting loans, thereby expanding its plant capacity and meeting this increased demand. The future cash flows that will arise due to increased sales will be used to repay these loans and maintain the companys good credit rating. SWOT ANALYSISHarleys high RD accounts for innovative designs providing Harley with unique product designs that set Harley apart from its competition. In order to achieve that, Harley is to increase its RD to improve product designs, quality, and safety. It is also to offer a guaranteed resale value (that most Japanese firms are lacking), offer a high quality after sales service and, therefore, build up its brand loyalty. Harley also, provides a wide variety of stylish accessory products and aggressively market them. Harley due to its lack of capital, avoided forming its own subsidiary providing financing servicessomething that Honda and Kawasaki have already done, and that is a wickeness for the company. That lack of capital also makes the company unable of producing the amount of products needed. There are some oportunities for the company, For example the expansion of its markets o Asia and Europe. In addition, of having its own financial services is a profitable expansion. Some of the threats are the tarrifs that might exist in other markets, and the immitation of Harleys products from other competitors. STRATEGIESThe strategies that the company might use have to do withe expansion to other markets like Asia, or Europe in order to increase sales and market share. In addition the creation of its own financial services could bring more profit. Harley should give a lot more emphasis to the male customers and also increase the emphasis on the foreign market close to 40%.IMPLEMENTATION ISSUESSome of the problems that the previous strategies may face depend on the lack of capital. Of course a loan could be beneficial since the returns from the sales would be enough to pay back the loan. In addition, exports in Europe are not that easy since the products are going to be taxed more, since they come from a country outside the Europian community. In the future a subsidiary in one of the European community countries would relax the tarrifs. TOWARDS THE FUTURETowards the future the company is expected to do very well and increase its market share. The management objectives is expected to be the same as the current ones. Therefore the company is expected to manufactore only heavyweight motorcycles, but with the use of some loans will be able also to icrease sales in Asia and Europe. I ) DECISION CHARTKind of DecisionsAlternative 1Alternative 2Alternative 3Product Kind*Lightweight, sport,*Sport and heavyweight *Heavyweight motorcyclesand heavyweight motorcycles. only. motorcycles.*Expand the line of acces- *Expand the line of accesso-*Stay with current sories to include more ries giving increasing em-line of accessories items. phasis on clothing. *Financing Services*Financing services through*Financing services throughthrough FMCO a wholly-owned subsidiary. FMCO. Consumers*Target all customers*Concentrate on males*95% emphasis on male cus-from young to old. (90% emphasis) tomers and 5% emphasis on*10% emphasis on females females. Ownership*Keep as is*Keep as is*Keep as isMarkets*70% emphasis on*Equal emphasis on the *60% emphasis on the dome- the domestic anddomestic and foreign stic and 40% emphasis on30% on the foreign markets. the foreign market. markets. Management*Keep as is*Keep as is*Keep as isCategory: Law

Role Model free essay sample

Role models are people who inspire others with their superior qualities and their commitment for a good cause. Here are some main characteristics of a role model. We will write a custom essay sample on Role Model or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Parents often tell their children about looking up to people who set good examples in their lives. Such people often end up being role models for youngsters or even adults and their habits are often emulated. Positive people can have a positive effect on the lives of others. These role models are often leaders with an optimistic approach towards life. Well, role models need not always be people from around the world but often; parents can also prove to be excellent role models for their children by helping them to imbibe good values in life. Here, we shall read about some of the main characteristics of a role model require to inspire people to follow their way. Humility is one of the characteristics you would need to look out for in a role model. Often, pop stars or even movie stars tend to influence the life of youngsters. Well, these are not exactly considered to be role models considering their behavior may not always inspire children to inculcate good habits. Humility in a person is extremely important as it shows the ability to be humble despite great achievements in life. A perfect role model would be one who respects others no matter his/her social status. Respect towards people would earn respect in return. The person who listens to others without being dictating in his/her approach would have all the factors to be successful in life. This may seem a very minute characteristic but it can surely make a major positive difference in life. An intelligent person can be noticed in the mannerisms and how a person handles issues on a daily basis. One of the characteristics of a role model is his/her level of intelligence. Intelligence is something that cannot be measured merely by grades but how the person uses his/her intelligence to succeed in life and help others in return. Good habits help to make a person better in life. Your role model should be having exemplary habits that should inspire you to improve yourself in life. Impeccable manners and kindness towards people are some characteristics that should be present in the role model you probably look up to. Commitment to a good cause is so very important in our lives. There are many people who have dedicated their lives to others. There are people who have overcome all adversities in life and have excelled despite all the odds. These people have not only gone ahead in life but have helped others to improve their condition of life as well. A role model should therefore be a complete inspiration for others in terms of his/her work towards the society. Role models should always have a sense of integrity with strong values. A positive minded person who is loaded with enthusiasm can surely prove to be the best role model one can have in life! Examples of people who have always been role models Mother Teresa Helen Keller Mahatma Gandhi Florence Nightingale Harriet Tubman Albert Einstein Bill Gates Role Model free essay sample Dr King is my role model because he fought to change my history. Dr King didn’t only want to see a change happen for his self and others but also for his family. He had a wife Coretta and four children; these were the people who he wanted to see change happen for the most. After King’s death is family wanted to keep his legacy alive because they knew he stood for a good cause. According to the article A king family tribute â€Å"Family and friends remember Dr. King as a role model and dedicate themselves to his mission. Watkins, Dr. Kings niece, has assembled their writings and excerpts from their speeches. All pay tribute to his spirit, abiding faith and dedication to the cause of civil rights, and they affirm their own commitment to following the path he walked, as his nephew, Derek B. King, states. Kings fathers remarks are excerpted from his autobiography. We will write a custom essay sample on Role Model or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Dr King is my personal role model because is stood for what he believed in. Dr king helped shape my worldview because through his hard work he’s shown me that nothing worth fighting for comes easy. I think a lot of people look over the fact that Dr King wasn’t just trying to change the race problem it stood of many different social issues. In the article Martin Luther King Jr conception of freedom and radical democracy the author states that â€Å"king came to believe that the civil rights struggle needed to expand beyond just racial desegregation in this country, He began to raise his voice against racism militarism, and economic exploitation around the world†. This is another reason why I look up to him because he didn’t only focus on one hing that needed to be changed so saw the importance of these issues and wanted to change them. Dr. king had a career as a pastor which is why I feel he never gave up believing in what he thought was right. The article Martin Luther King cover story gives background on his life â€Å"King was a preacher who spoke in biblical cadences ideally suited to leading a stride toward freedom that found its inspiration in the Old Testament story of the Israelites and the New Testament gospel of Jesus Christ. Being a minister not only put King in touch with the spirit of the black masses but also gave him a base within the black church, then and now the strongest and most independent of black institutions†. Like Dr King I believe that everyone should have the right to freedom and equal rights ; However, I don’t know if I could have endured the things that Dr king had to. Once Dr King was thrown in jail because of his protest, I think if I knew I could go to jail because I was protesting I wouldn’t protest. On the other Dr King who have pathed the way for me to be able to use my freedom of speech. I would want to be brave and stand for what I believe in for myself and my family just as King did. Reference MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. A King Family Tribute. (2012). Kirkus Reviews, 80(24), 222. Orosco, J. M. (2001). Martin Luther King, Jr. ’s Conception of Freedom and Radical Democracy. Journal Of Social Philosophy, 32(4), 386-401. White, J. E. (1998). Martin Luther King. (Cover story). Time, 151(14), 160.

Influence of the Olmec Civilization on Mesoamerica

Influence of the Olmec Civilization on Mesoamerica The Olmec civilization thrived along Mexicos gulf coast from approximately 1200-400 B.C. and is considered the parent culture of many of the important Mesoamerican cultures that came after, including the Aztec and Maya. From their great cities, San Lorenzo and La Venta, Olmec traders spread their culture far and wide and eventually built a large network through Mesoamerica. Although many aspects of Olmec culture have been lost to time, what little is known about them is very important because their influence was so great. Olmec Trade and Commerce Before the dawn of the Olmec civilization, trade in Mesoamerica was common. Highly desirable items like obsidian knives, animal skins, and salt were routinely traded between neighboring cultures. The Olmecs created long-distance trade routes to obtain the things they needed, eventually making contacts all the way from the valley of Mexico to Central America. Olmec traders swapped finely made Olmec celts, masks and other small pieces of art with other cultures such as the Mokaya and Tlatilco, getting jadeite, serpentine, obsidian, salt, cacao, pretty feathers and more in return. These extensive trade networks spread Olmec culture far and wide, spreading Olmec influence throughout Mesoamerica. Olmec Religion The Olmec had a well-developed religion and belief in a cosmos comprised of an underworld (represented by the Olmec fish monster), the Earth (Olmec Dragon) and skies (bird monster). They had elaborate ceremonial centers: the well-preserved Complex A at La Venta is the best example. Much of their art is based on their religion, and it is from surviving pieces of Olmec art that researchers have managed to identify no fewer than eight different Olmec gods. Many of these early Olmec gods, such as the Feathered Serpent, the maize god, and the rain god, found their way into the mythology of later civilizations such as the Maya and Aztecs. Mexican researcher and artist Miguel Covarrubias made a famous diagram of how different Mesoamerican divine images all diverged from an early Olmec source. Olmec Mythology: Apart from the religious aspects of Olmec society mentioned above, Olmec mythology seems to have caught on with other cultures as well. The Olmecs were fascinated with were-jaguars, or human-jaguar hybrids: some Olmec art has caused speculation that they believed that some human-jaguar cross-breeding had once taken place, and depictions of fierce were-jaguar babies are a staple of Olmec art. Later cultures would continue the human-jaguar obsession: one good example is the jaguar warriors of the Aztec. Also, at the El Azuzul site near San Lorenzo, a pair of extremely similar statues of young men placed with a pair of jaguar statues brings to mind the two pairs of hero twins whose adventures are narrated in the Popol Vuh, known as the Maya bible. Although there are no confirmed courts used for the famous Mesoamerican ballgame at Olmec sites, rubber balls used for the game were unearthed at El Manatà ­. Olmec Art: Artistically speaking, the Olmec were far ahead of their time: their art shows a skill and aesthetic sense far greater than that of contemporary civilizations. The Olmec produced celts, cave paintings, statues, wooden busts, statues, figurines, stelae and much more, but their most famous artistic legacy is doubtless the colossal heads. These giant heads, some of which stand nearly ten feet tall, are striking in their artwork and majesty. Although the colossal heads never caught on with other cultures, Olmec art was very influential on the civilizations that followed it. Olmec stelae, such as La Venta Monument 19, can be indistinguishable from Mayan art to the untrained eye. Certain subjects, such as plumed serpents, also made the transition from Olmec art to that of other societies. Engineering and Intellectual Accomplishments: The Olmec were the first great engineers of Mesoamerica. There is an aqueduct at San Lorenzo, carved out of dozens of massive stones then laid side-by side. The royal compound at La Venta shows engineering as well: the massive offerings of Complex A are complicated pits filled with stones, clay, and supporting walls, and there is a tomb there built with basalt support columns. The Olmec may have given Mesoamerica its first written language as well. Undecipherable designs on certain pieces of Olmec stonework may be early glyphs: later societies, such as the Maya, would have elaborate languages using glyphic writing and would even develop books. As the Olmec culture faded into the Epi-Olmec society seen in the Tres Zapotes site, the people developed an interest in the calendar and astronomy, two other fundamental building blocks of Mesoamerican society. Olmec Influence and Mesoamerica: Researchers who study ancient societies embrace something called the continuity hypothesis. This hypothesis posits that there has been a set of religious and cultural beliefs and norms in place in Mesoamerica that has run through all of the societies that lived there and that information from one society can often be used to fill in the gaps left in others. The Olmec society then becomes particularly important. As the parent culture - or at least one of the most important early formative cultures of the region - it had influence out of proportion with, say, its military might or prowess as a trading nation. Olmec pieces that give some information about the gods, society or have a bit of writing on them - such as the famous Las Limas Monument 1 - are particularly prized by researchers. Sources: Coe, Michael D and Rex Koontz. Mexico: From the Olmecs to the Aztecs. 6th Edition. New York: Thames and Hudson, 2008 Cyphers, Ann. Surgimiento y decadencia de San Lorenzo, Veracruz. Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). P. 30-35. Diehl, Richard A. The Olmecs: Americas First Civilization. London: Thames and Hudson, 2004. Grove, David C. Cerros Sagradas Olmecas. Trans. Elisa Ramirez. Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). P. 30-35. Gonzalez Tauck, Rebecca B. El Complejo A: La Venta, Tabasco Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). p. 49-54.

Why is Food Exchanged with Hindu Gods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Why is Food Exchanged with Hindu Gods - Essay Example This is known as Prasad, which means mercy or the divine grace from god. The food offered to the deities is said to bestow religious merit, purifying body, mind and spirit. One of the rituals performed in Hinduism is known as puja. It is an offering done to various deities or special guests. It is done in variety of occasions and settings, but it is mainly performed at home or in public temples. However, Puja has different ritual performances, which basically, exhibit the same structure. Pitar pak, a family rite consisting of simple rituals andinvolves a few participants (Babb 34). The matar festival in whichtheparticipants’ number are in hundreds unlike the pitar Pak. Singing Bhajan and a domestic puja called saptashati path. These ceremonies are performed to persuade deities to grant favors that the worshipper is seeking. Food offering is the central feature of the rituals Hindus perform. Otherwise, without food offering, the ritual would simply not be Puja in the convention al sense of the term. Food is offered to the deity and in turn, the deity in some way partakes of the offering. Sometimes, the consumption of the food is symbolized physically, like in homa where the food is consumed by the fire. Other times the food is set before the god often behind a concealing cloth. In both cases, it is assumed that the deity actually partakes of the food. If the deity does eat the food placed on the altar, the leftover is then taken back for distribution. Upon eating this food, the participants are giving the most profound honor to the god. Therefore, the exchange of food in puja is in consonance with general principles that order Hindu life. More so, it shows that the food exchange that takes place in puja is a necessary pattern of human interaction with the gods. In presenting the food, the deities are paid for the past of future favors. Apart from the food, offering of clothing, money, and precious metals are used to pay the deities. The deities are suppose d to be given expensive type of foods, and if simple, they are usually prepared under stringent conditions of purity, which is the universal rule of Hindu ceremonialism (Babb 47). Rituals should be performed to honor god and at the same time to pay the god for all the favors. Several rituals in Hinduism are associated with food. For example, when a child feeds for the first time, it is celebrated as Samskara known as annaprasana. The funeral rite involves offering food to the departed soul. Devout Hindus observe some rituals before eating it. They sprinkle water around the food to purify it and make it worthy to the gods. In addition, they clean the place first because Hindu law books proscribe eating food in dirty places. They offer food to their personal gods before eating. In doing so, one’s body becomes a sacrificial alter. It is also believed that offering the gods food is a mark of self-devotion. As stipulated in the Hindu scriptures, anyone who offers food to gods befo re eating it come to no harm as the qualities in the food are neutralized by their positive energies. Therefore, it is important that the food is presented to â€Å"temple† where the gods are waiting on their altars (Yalman 293) The Hinduism community in honor of the gods holds different festivals, for example, the Annakuta festival. Annakuta literally means, â€Å"A hill of food†. On this day, worshippers offer Krishna great varieties and large quantities of vegetarian food. It is a celebration of an event in Krishna’s life. He lifted the mountain of Govardhan for seven days to protect people against the deluge of rain sent by the god of heavens and rains, and that is why Hindus celebrate this day (Toomey 123). They prepare hundreds of different food and take them to the

Battle of Mogadishu (Black Hawk Down) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Battle of Mogadishu (Black Hawk Down) - Essay Example The mission aimed to abduct several top lieutenants and significantly warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid then return to base. The operation intended to last for 90 minutes. The work provides insightful and original analysis of the commander’s performance, based on establishing cohesive teams through mutual trust, use of mission orders, and accepting prudent risk. On 3rd October 1993, Task Force Ranger, U.S. Special Operations Forces comprised of Bravo Company 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta (better known as â€Å"Delta Force†) operators, and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), (â€Å"The Night Stalkers†), attempted to capture Aidid’s foreign minister Omar Salad Elmi and his top political advisor, Mohamed Hassan Awale. The Special Forces elements involved lightly armed warriors fielding submarine guns, automatic rifles, and light machine guns1. Delta Forces members had variety ofi assault rifles whilst Army Rangers depended on the support of squad-level, small-caliber machine guns in the M60 and M249 SAW. In addition, Heavily-caliber, vehicle-mounted 0.50 quality weapons were on lightly armored HUMVEE vehicles. However, main line of heavy support lay in the air cover provided by Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk medium transport and Hughes OH-6 â€Å"Little Bird† light helicopters. The Black Hawks outfitted a pair of 0.50-caliber heavy machine guns while; â€Å"Little Birds† fielded a collection of mini-guns, rocket pods, or M60 machine guns as needed. The Somali militias used AK-47s, rocket propelled grenade launchers (RPG-7), automatic rifles. They convoyed in improvised fighting vehicles. During this period, the Somali guerillas gained several tactical advantages over the US Special Forces. First, the Somali militias engaged on familiar grounds, leaders could muster an Army of several thousand men, and boys in short order. Second, their civilian appearance