Opedipus, a tragic hero free essay sample

Sophocles’ Oedipus is one of the most well-known tragic heroes in the history of drama. His strange fate leads him to tragic downfall that leaves both the reader and the audience feeling emotionally affected. According to the definition of the Greek philosopher, Aristotle, Oedipus’ troublesome story qualifies him as a tragic hero. Oedipus is the embodiment of Aristotle’s characterization of a tragic hero through his ability to preserve his virtue and wisdom, despite his flaws and predicament. The Aristotelian view of a tragic hero does not expose the lack of morality or even the wickedness of the protagonist, based on an error of judgment. The tragedy and drama so perfectly fit the Aristotelian characteristics of Oedipus. Considering Aristotle’s definition of a tragic hero, it can be found that Oedipus fits the character description seamlessly through various traits that he displays and the origin of his tragic fall: There remains then the man who occupies the mean between saintliness and depravity. We will write a custom essay sample on Opedipus, a tragic hero or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page He is not extra-ordinary in virtue and righteousness and yet does not fall into bad fortune because of evil and wickedness but because of some hamartia of a kind found in men of high reputation and good fortune such as Oedipus and Thyestes and famous men of similar families (Adade-Yeboah, Ahenkora, Amankwa, 2012, pg. 2). Aristotle’s definition of a tragic hero fully fits the character of Oedipus because of the various traits he displays and the origin of his fall. Even though Oedipus is not a saint, his extraordinary ability to outsmart the Sphinx and solve the riddle gives him much reverence. Oedipus earns consecration as King, a reward for saving the people of Thebes, which grants him more power as he comes a sacred leader of the city. The Priest addresses Oedipus: â€Å"Great Oedipus, O powerful King of Thebes† (Sophocles, 425, pg. 860). Even though this near saintliness has been dangerously stained through his incestuous relationship with his mother, Jocasta, despite that he did not know she was his mother. Following Aristotle’s concept, Oedipus’s downfall does not stem from his wickedness, but from a combination of factors. One factor that greatly contributes to Oedipus’ downfall is his anger towards Tiresias, which greatly reflects his own weakness. Oedipus loses his temper when the blind prophet tries to warn him: â€Å"Am I to bear this from him? Damnation Take you! Out of this place! Out of my sight! † (Sophocles, 425, pg. 870). By losing his temper, Oedipus demonstrates the error of judgment that Aristotle refers to in his definition. The responsibility of tragedy is placed on the weakness that reveals that wrong has been done; however, Aristotle refuses to hold blame to the hero whose goodness and virtue he still holds true. Aristotle targets human error, opposed to the lack of morality as it the cause of tragedy. Although Oedipus is guilty of incest and character flaws, his virtue is unquestionable, as he reveals guilt and responsibility. At the end of the play, even his anger is redeemed. He displays copious wisdom after he becomes blind and doomed to exile. â€Å"†¦or kill me, hurl me, Into the sea, away from men’s eyes for ever†¦ Of all men, I alone can bear this guilt†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Sophocles,425 pg. 894). Aristotle’s point is validated by Oedipus’ strength, a tragic hero’ goodness confirms that he is not evil, just capable of making mistakes. Overall, the diversity of the language significantly enhances the play and enables the play to be appreciated by different audiences. â€Å"Aristotle believes that the language must be sweet in tragedy. The level of language used by different characters should differ to depict the social stands of the characters† (Adade-Yeboah, Ahenkora, Amankwa, 2012 pg. 1). Additionally, he focuses on meaningful language reflected throughout the entire play, and stresses that tragedy must be taken seriously. Aristotle presents that there is a complex relationship between tragedy and emotions. For him, it is expressed through pity and fear. Konstan argues: The idea that the object of pity does not deserve his fate is present in the definition Aristotle offers in the Rhetoric; in the Poetics, however, Aristotle exploits the concept of similarity in order to explain the terror that tragedy induces. If the characters on stage are enough like ourselves-the context indicates that the sense is morally similar-then we will experience their fear as our own. (Konstan, 1999, pg. 1) Unquestionably, the audience reacts to the sequence of events in the play; feeling pity for Oedipus about his fate and the predicament he faces. Aristotle praises a brilliant arrangement that makes the play more attractive and creates higher expectations: The putting together of the separate actions is very crucial. The beauty of the plot therefore lies in the arrangements which must have magnitude and not be a matter of chance. Indeed, the subtle manipulation of the plot which brings suspense also ends in the discovery (Adade-Yeboah, Ahenkora Amankwa, 2012 pg. 1). He thinks that the actions should be reflected through a plausible plot to which the audience can easily relate and identify with for the accomplishment of a true tragedy. Finkelberg argues that Aristotle calls: â€Å"for the creation of a full-scale illusion of real-life experience and, as a result, for the audience’s emotional identification with the characters. Only such emotional identification would lead to the proper tragic pleasure that Aristotle seeks† (Finkelberg, 2006 pg. 6). Following Aristotle’s idea of plot, Oedipus the King has a very distinguishing plot that creates suspense and thoroughly engages the audience. Through the enactment of real life experiences, genuine emotions are created by those who can identify with the experiences and can find a strong connection between the fictitious characters and themselves. The sequences of events do not follow a chronological order, which enhances the suspense of the plot. For instance, as the play begins, Oedipus is already the King of Thebes; however, the truth about his biological parents is not discovered by the audience until much later. Aristotle promotes a plot that signifies a balance of wholeness, completeness, magnitude, and complexity. (McManus, 1999) This is determined by the length and complexity of the play as it relates to the seriousness and significance of the plot. This article establishes a thorough connection between the action and the plot that are interdependent and fundamental to the play: â€Å"Tragedy, by implication, is an ‘action that is serious. ’ The action is linked up with the plot because the plot is the imitation of the action. In other words, the plot is the synthesis of the individual acts. The word â€Å"serious† means that the action must surround a person of high class, an aristocrat† (Adade-Yeboah, Ahenkora Amankwa, 2012 pg. 2). This description matches the character of Oedipus who is not only a nobleman but also a virtuous and good man. According to Scheeper’s article: â€Å"Aristotle refutes the ‘simplistically’ structured tragic plot, which involves a good man coming to misfortune, as completely immoral, and rejects the simple moral plot, in which a bad man succumbs to hardship, as utterly un-tragic† (Scheepers, 2005, pg. 137). As in Oedipus the King and through the character of Oedipus, he believes that the hero does not have to be morally evil, but virtuous. Aristotle employs Virtue and morality as two major concepts in his references to the tragic hero and tragedy. The audience generally identifies with the characters through these two concepts; in addition to the characters actions and how they can be related to the audiences own lives. This explains the audience’s emotions throughout the performance or reading. As Konstan explains: The context in the Poetics indicates, as we have seen, that the relevant point of similarity in the case of tragedy is moral likeness: it is, generally speaking, in character, rather than age, family, or profession, that we are analogous to the protagonists of a play (Konstan, 1999, pg. 2). Although drama is an illusion of real life, it may represent a reflection of a character that some may identify with. As Gillet and Hankey write: â€Å"The reactions portrayed in Oedipus make vivid not only the idea of character traits but also the role of virtue in moderating what we might do in situations that interact with our characters in potentially disastrous ways. † (Gillet and Hankey, 2005, pg. 1) Aristotle’s concepts of a tragic hero, tragedy and drama are suggestively important. The Aristotelian tragic hero is a dynamic character with endowed virtue, whose fall stems from an error in judgment, not from the character’s wickedness. Moreover, Aristotle’s definition of a tragedy recognizes the imitated real life experiences and at the same time exposes necessary fundamentals of drama. Sophocles’ Oedipus fully exemplifies Aristotle’s view as a tragic hero, as he manages to obtain virtue and wisdom, even though his temper has been tested which leads him to his inevitable downfall. ?

Where to Find Full-Text Sociology Journals Online

Where to Find Full-Text Sociology Journals Online Finding full-text sociology journals online can be difficult, especially for students with limited access to academic libraries or online databases. There are a number of sociology journals that offer free full-text articles, which may be especially useful for students who do not have easy access to an academic library. The following journals offer access to a selection of full-text articles online. The Annual Review of SociologyThe Annual Review of Sociology, in publication since 1975, covers the significant developments in the field of Sociology. Topics covered in the journal include major theoretical and methodological developments as well as current research in the major subfields. Review chapters typically cover social processes, institutions and culture, organizations, political and economic sociology, stratification, demography, urban sociology, social policy, historical sociology, and major developments in sociology in other regions of the world. The Future of ChildrenThis publications aim is to disseminate information on issues related to childrens well-being. The target of the journal is a multidisciplinary audience of national leaders, including policymakers, practitioners, legislators, executives, and professionals in the public and private sectors. Each issue has a focal theme. Topics covered have included the protection of children, children and poverty, welfare to work, and special education for children with disabilities. Each issue also contains an executive summary with recommendations and a summary of articles. Sociology of Sport OnlineSociology of Sport Online is an online journal that deals with the sociological examination of sport, physical education and coaching. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive HealthPerspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health (formerly, Family Planning Perspectives) provides the latest peer-reviewed, policy-relevant research and analysis on sexual and reproductive health and rights in the United States and other industrialized countries. Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular CultureThe Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture is a scholarly record of research and opinion on the intersection of crime, criminal justice, and popular culture. Western Criminology ReviewThe Western Criminology Review is the official peer reviewed publication of the Western Society of Criminology which is devoted to the scientific study of crime. Keeping with the Societys mission as stated by the president of WSC the journal is meant to provide a forum for publication and discussion of theory, research, policy, and practice in the interdisciplinary fields of criminology and criminal justice. Globalization and HealthGlobalization and Health is an open access, peer-reviewed, online journal that provides a platform for research, knowledge sharing and debate on the topic of globalization and its effects on health, both positive and negative. Globalization essentially refers to anything supra-territorial, anything that transcends the geopolitical boundaries of the nation-state. As a process it is being driven by liberalisation of markets and technological advancements. In essence, it is about human proximity people are now living in each others metaphorical pockets. Behavior and Social IssuesBehavior and Social Issues is an open-access, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal that serves as a primary scholarly outlet for articles that advance the scientific analysis of human social behavior, particularly with regard to understanding and influencing important social problems. The primary intellectual frameworks for the journal are the natural science of behavior, and the sub-discipline of cultural analytic science. The journal is particularly interested in publishing work related to issues with social justice, human rights, and environmental implications, but all significant social issues are of interest. IDEA: A Journal of Social IssuesIDEA is a peer-reviewed electronic journal created for the exchange of ideas related mainly, to cults, mass movements, autocratic power, war, genocide, democide, holocaust, and murder. International Journal of Child, Youth, and Family StudiesThe International Journal of Child, Youth and Family Studies (IJCYFS) is a peer reviewed, open access, interdisciplinary, cross-national journal that is committed to scholarly excellence in the field of research about and services for children, youth, families and their communities. Social MedicineSocial Medicine is a bilingual, academic, open-access journal published since 2006 by the Department of Family and Social Medicine at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the Latin American Social Medicine Association (ALAMES).

Argumentative paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Argumentative paper - Essay Example The taking constitutes significant facts that include losing at the very least $10, 000 when he was not permitted to fulfill his obligation to Ford during the Chief/Bronco game. The rule promulgated by FAA is unconstitutional for businesses, such as that of Ben is not illegal nor does it mislead the people. The purpose of the law is vague and the rationale behind it finds no balance to the nonexistence of impending danger as unreasonably feared by these government offices. The business of advertising through aircrafts has little to no possibility of having any relation to the goal of fighting terrorism or preventing its effects. People such as Ben are unduly deprived of their commerce because of such muddled policies. The First Amendment is inclusive of its protection of Commercial speech and this must be given weight in the case at hand. Under the Central Hudson Test, as promulgated by the Supreme Court in the case of Central Hudson Gas & Electric v Public Service Commission,  "Commercial speech will be protected by the First Amendment if it is a lawful activity and not misleading, there is a qualified government interest, that such interest is substantial and parallel to the regulation and finally, that the regulation is legitimately laid down. This leads to the conclusion that the business of Ben must be protected based on the given requisites.

Impact and Outcomes of Effectual Risk Based Planning Applications Essay

Impact and Outcomes of Effectual Risk Based Planning Applications - Essay Example Broad policy alternatives and a process of restructuring the existing practices have to be adopted in order to overcome the present impasse. I advocate a local level policy shift rather than a Federal level overhaul. Public administration consists of non-profit governmental institutions that form the bulk of a country’s administrative system. The process of planning at institutional level might require a cohesive and articulate strategy with a particular focus on existing inadequacies of the system. Non-profit public sector institutions operate on the principle of public welfare at the grassroots. However, there is an imbalance in these institutions when it comes to efficient management processes and institutional structures. Ill-defined targets often serve as hurdles that have to be surmounted even before the project is started. Project risk perception and management is another such area in which both leadership and intelligence are lacking. It is imperative to question the unprivileged immunity from public scrutiny that is almost taken for granted by local level administrators whose attitudes have, over the years, been conducive to producing negative outcomes in the sphere of public adm inistration. Causal factors include a host of fallacious assumptions too. Risk has a variety of meanings and senses that defy our articulation or assessment capabilities. Therefore in risk-based planning process there can be no perfection or certainty in determining a set of variables that impact on the planning process and the eventual outcomes. Both endogenous and exogenous variables impact on these outcomes, irrespective of our hypothetical presumptions on what shape those outcomes should take. Community or county level administration might seek to exert pressure on Federal bodies to facilitate legislation that cohort principles of public choice theory. For instance the Risk-Based Homeland Security Grants Act

The Truth about Rap Music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Truth about Rap Music - Essay Example The Home Affairs Committee of Great Britain’s Parliament debated whether or not rap music had a positive influence on Britain’s youth. Ultimately, the Home Affairs Committee agreed that rap music like any other type of music could incite criminal behavior. However, the Committee acknowledged that given rap music’s appeal to the youth, has been used productively. For instance pastors have been using some of the more exciting genre of rap to inspire Britain’s youth and to influence positive behavior. Great Britain’s Youth Offending Teams are also using rap music that could have a positive and encouraging impact on troubled youth (Great Britain Parliament 2007, p. 127). Positive rap does not draw the kind of media attention that gangsta or materialistic rap draws and this accounts for general perceptions that rap music is corrosive and inciting. Rap artists such as De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Common, Wyclef and Talib Kweli use rap lyrics tha t promote education, responsibility and pride in ethnicity. In this regard, positive rap contributes to the individual listener’s own personal value and to the good of that listener’s own humanity (Elligan 2004, p. 43).

Employee Issues And Failure Of Mergers And Acquisitions Management Essay

Employee Issues And Failure Of Mergers And Acquisitions Management Essay Globalization has demanded change in business practices because of its initiated competition (Schuler and Tarique, 2007). However, two streams can be found in the literature suggesting two different views about this phenomenon of globalization. One view suggests that it is being evolved to accomplish the power, politics, and wealth accumulation objectives and to do so, it has been instilled through carefully planned strategies, plans and tactics (Chomsky, 1999; Schuler and Tarique, 2007). Other view conveys a contrasting philosophy asserting that it is a social phenomenon which is benefiting the people around the globe by reducing monopolies of few (Castells,1996). Though these two views convey two opposite messages stating it political fixture designed for the purpose of gaining control of power, authority and wealth or a phenomenon which is operating to benefiting the people around the globe has instigated challenges for the business organization, somehow. Whether these are threats or opportunities, these are challenging (Mourdoukoutas, 2006). This phenomenon has changed the face of the world economy, and economic conditions of most of the countries are forcing the organization to change their business strategies. The organizations are using various forms of collaborations and alliances such as mergers, acquisitions and joint ventures inside and across the national boundaries in order to survive through the threats or to grow on the new challenging opportunities provided by globalization. Kogut and Singh (1988) state that collaborations such as joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions are the source of sharing and spreading and sharing risks over partners firms. According to Contractor and Lorange (1988) such collaborations allow developing and harnessing knowledge of the host organization. Choi and Hong (2002) suggest that collaborations can be for the purpose of knowledge or/and material flow. However, many of such collaborative efforts are not successful and according to Datta (1998), employee resistance is the key factor that hinders the success in such collaborations. And this essay, in fact, analyses the statement often employee-related issues prevent a merger or acquisition from succeeding in order to offer a better understanding of the factors of such failures by reviewing the relevant literature and using a case study. However, main focus of the essay is on collaborative relationships with main focus on joint ventures. Employee Related Issues and Failure of Mergers and Acquisitions As states in the given statement that often employee-related issues prevent a merger or acquisition from succeeding, Datta (1998) asserts that these are the conflicts and interventions arising from the employees that hamper the success of mergers or acquisitions. Kumar and Andersen (2009) state that these conflicts and resistance from employees stem from three levels due to their unwillingness to be the part of the new development and insecurity associated with this new formation. Das and Kumar (2009: 18-19) explain these levels stating that Pragmatic conflict occurs at the level of the functional specialists, moral conflict falls within the domain of alliance level managers, and cognitive conflict involves the top level managers, i.e. the individuals who are responsible for initiating and managing the alliance based strategy of the firm. Pragmatic conflict centers on issues of operational coordination among partner firms, moral conflict revolves around the appropriateness of behaviors among the partner firms, while cognitive conflict focuses on issues pertaining to the strategic rationale for continuing with or exiting from the alliance. Das and Kumar (2009) it is the top management which should be made responsible for their lack of vision about the intensity of change and then failure to manage change, resulting in failure of such collaborations. Change Management and Success of Collaborative Efforts Organizational change usually is perceived or rightly believed to contain threat or challenging opportunities of personal loss or rewards respectively as consequences of the change for the stakeholders. Lorenzi and Riley (2000) state that these threats or risks can fluctuate from simply disturbance of established routines to job insecurity if we talk about the internal stakeholders. While Hall (2002) classifies the change as shot tem and long-term and states the trade-offs between short and long run. Use of the term change management has been widespread in management writings and organizational studies (Ackoff, 1981, 1990). Interest of managers and researchers in change management topic has been stimulated by the commentary of Peter Drucker (1999), stating whether change can be managed at all or organizations are merely led or facilitated because of its episodes. In the words of Lorenzi and Riley (2000) Change management is the process by which an organization gets to its future state, its vision. While traditional planning processes delineate the steps on the journey, change management attempts to facilitate that journey. Consequently, implementing change instigates crafting a vision for change, and it proceeds further by empowering and allowing individuals to work as agents in the process to accomplishing that vision. These agents require realistic and future oriented strategies, plans and tactics to make successful transformation. However, since managing change is not simple and requires top managers to have a holistic approach which addresses all the major factors and disturbances arising from them. Factors Requiring Attention Kauser and Shaw (2004) that though employees can affect the success of such collaborations, however, there are plenty of factors that have more devastating impact on the success. In fact, firms investing in such collaborations face various uncertainties, resulting in affecting the intended outcomes. Gulati and Singh (1998) state that such uncertainties can stem from numerous factors that can be critical in hampering success in the firms with different norms, cultures, future plans and intentions. If these are the international joint ventures, various factors such as difference in national cultures, varying labour market conditions, different political and legal system can be crucial in defining success in collaborations (Bratton and Gold, 2007). Unavailability of timely and adequate allocation and sharing of resources is one of the main reasons that can cause some type of failure in such collaborative efforts and hence should be given proper focus while addressing the change arising from collaborations (Boddy et al, 1998). Given the dynamic and volatile business environment, timely and adequate allocation of resources, including human, capital an information, are vital in the success of mergers and acquisitions (Yan and Zeng, 1999). Earlier, Yan (1998) believed that bargaining power, control and trust are the main factors that can play central role in the successful mergers and acquisitions. Sirmon and Lane (2004) state that cultural compatibility should be taken care, while going into such collaborations. Lorange and Roos (1992) that these are the intentions of the collaborating firms that cause issues, resulting in impeding the success. Lorange and Roos (1992) further state that difference in objectives, and differing practices, norms, values also contribute towards failures. Fey and Beamish (2000) suggest that varying intentions, lack of cultural compatibility, and differences in objectives are the main factors that create uncertainties in employees, resulting in impeding the success. Hennart et al, (1998) collaboration without clear identification of need and objectives of collaboration, lack of concentration towards qualitative factors cause failures because it hinder effective decision making. Looking at the above statements and assertions, it can be argued though employees related issues can cause failures but it is the failure to manage change due to lack of vision to identify the factors and manage them is the main reason. Employee related issues such, according to Hennart et al, (1998), arise from lack of trust in the new working arrangements. If top management is able to remove these issues by giving incentives, ensuring security and involving them in the entire process of initiation and development of such collaborations, employees related issues can be solved (Sirmon Lane, 2004). Yan (1998) evidence that such failures are the result of incomplete contracts because of improper decision-making on behalf of the people who are supposed to manage change by efficiently responding to and reacting to changing business environment through proper attention to various internal and external factors. Sirmon and Lane, (2004) suggest that it is the lack of vision to predict the s everity of change which can result from the new business arrangements. These collaborations demand employees new roles and hence, human resource management should be well prepared to play its new roles in these changing business arrangements along with their traditional roles of hiring, training etc. Inability to do so means failure of collaborations whether it is mergers, acquisitions or joint ventures (Sirmon and Lane, (2004) and in this regard, role of human resource management need to be changed due to globalization and its wedged factors such as culture, political and social structures, economic conditions, labour market conditions, market size. Human resource management role should be sensitive to all the factors and effective in cross cultural environment, both organizational and national (Scullion and Linehan, 2005). For instance, national culture, defined by Hofstede (1980, 1991) as values, beliefs, and assumptions distinguishing people of different societies from one another, with Power Distance, Uncertainty Avoidance, Collectivism-Individualism, and Masculinity-Femininity dimensions affect the HRM role and practices in this era of globalization, where companies are driven to go limitless in terms of nationalities. For example, Budhwar and Boyne (2004) state that in India, hiring and promotion is completed keeping in view religion, caste system, and culture. (Clark Pugh (2000) suggest that feminine culture of Netherland is not suitable to use hard HRM. According to Hofstede (1983) and Blunt Jones (1986), that Kenyas culture showing uncertainty-avoidance dimension needs that organization should take care various ceremonies such as funerals and marriages. Similarly, tensions arsing form different organizational culture (in case if it is different) and national culture requires more than traditi onal HRM role (Cooke et al 2008). This means that in case of international collaborations, these factors can cause serious problems and hence organizations need to develop and deploy a policy that pay attention to these factors as well to avoid future harms. In case of mergers and acquisitions in different countries, political, legal, and social structures influence HRM role and functions (Noe Ford, 1992). Economic system of a specific country with different governance structures is also hard on playing its cards to alter the HRM role and practices in its own terms. Labour Market conditions, (Ali, 2000), market size (Tayeb, 2005) also needs different motivational and promotional strategies as same standard for all markets cannot work. Same quantitative target will not work for sales persons in London and Lancaster. Role of unions is also important in shaping HRM decisions of selections, promotions, wages (Collins et al, 1993), and motivation (Rosen et al, 1986) It means that new business environment may require different business practices, demanding different role of HRM and that is its role envisioned in strategic HRM (SHRM. Bratton Gold (2007: 56) define SHRM as The HR polices and process that result from the global competitive activities of multinational companies and that explicitly link international HR practices and processes with the worldwide strategic goals of those companies It means that HRM is no mere an administrative facility but has received or expected recognition as a strategic business collaborator. Companies are  actively relating  the HRM in the development and implementation of both people and business strategies (Christina Evans, 2003). It means that HRM needs to manage people and proactively support the overall management and decision making of the organizational. According to Guest (2002) managing people includes ensuring commitment from employees, building high trust and flexible roles, creating focus on value s, flattering hierarchical structure of the organization, and ensuring autonomy at national level and enhancing self control. In the era of globalization, where new forms of organizations are unavoidable, Christina Evans (2003) goes further to explain the HRM role stating that it contributes to overall development of the organization through performance measures, agenda building, translating strategic level strategies into HR deliverables. Holbeche (1999) suggests that role of HRM is strategic rather than operational, proactive rather than traditional reactive, changing instead of stagnant, and of employee champion. Ulrich (2000) suggests that HRM role in competitive world is turning knowledge into action. Keeping in view the new role of HR, this essay suggests that it is not the employee related issues that cause problems; rather it is the ineffective role of HR that can cause predicaments for the collaborating firms. Black and Gregersen (1999) state that if seen from individualistic perspective, Resistance from the employees to adopt new practices, procedures and values can be a problem and can be a factor in failure of mergers. There could be conflicting interests of the employees of local and foreign companies, which could enhance the complexity of the task for expatriatesAnd this signifies the fact that the employees involved in such collaborations, especially expatriates, require interpersonal and cross-cultural skills, along with comprehensive understanding of the foreign culture to efficiently work with employees of different cultures The above statement brings attention to the fact that though employees resistance and issues related to employees such as lack of strong interpersonal skills and inability in understanding of different cultures are vital in creating troubles in the success, it also bring attention to the fact the important new role of HR to train them and make them suitable for such unavoidable assignments, in the current business scenario. Hence, once again, this essay argues that if we look at the surface, it looks the employees related problems; however, in-depth investigation tells us that it is the over-all ineffectiveness of the organizational policies and practices that hinder success. Luo (1998) asserts that success of such arrangements depends upon the right choice of partner. Luo states the partners selection significance stating various factors vital in this regard including organizational practices, routines, norms, values, culture, structure, government connections, effectiveness of distribution channels, skill and capacity development, position and experience in the industry. Brouthers et al., (1995) propose the four cs formula for the success such arrangements, and these four Cs are compatible goals, complementary skills, cooperative organizational culture, and commensurate risk-taking orientation. This suggestion of Brouthers et al., (1995), further signifies the value of clearness in business objectives, responsibilities and understanding of the partners. Zeira, et al., (1997) found significant positive relation between objectives clarity and and success of mergers and acquisition. For the purpose of re-iterating this point, survey results of Thompsons (1996) study identifies that cross-cultural communication issues, lack of business objectives clarity, and intentions of partner firms create fatal towards the success of such collaborations. According to Thompsons (1996; 145) Disagreements and misunderstandings over the business objectives of the relationship and over business strategies were most fatal and threatening to the success Kealey et al., (2006) suggest that issues arising from environment create the major hindrances and, to a particular level, these problems can be alleviated, and the level to which these problems are alleviated, determines the failure and success. Kealey et al., (2006) identifies some such issues which have been stated as under: Congeniality of the organizational cultures and compatibility among them General economic health of the economy (host) along with international economic conditions, resources availability such as financial and human, and consumer demands and competition. Regulatory and law and order situation of country (host), such as foreign investment restrictions, import and export controls and policies Friendliness, health, and effectiveness of firms Social and political climate, and ability of the management to manage change pro-actively Looking at the above discussion and emphasis on change management, role of human resource management and external environmental factors along with clarity of objectives, trust, and intentions of the partners, and significance of selection of firms for such collaborations, this essay argues that though importance of employee related issues can be a problem in the success of mergers and acquisitions is always their but these are issues which are the result of improper HR policies, ineffective change management. Case of Rolls-Royce and BMW It was, in fact, joint venture resulting in acquisition between Rolls-Royce and BMW stared in 1989 and broken, after 10 years, in 1999. Habib and Mella-Barra (2002) express their point of view about termination of this collaboration stating that it is possible that the venture ended because of failure to cooperate on the part of the two partners, such an explanation is unlikely given that BMW was paid in Rolls-Royce shares, which have made BMW one of the largest shareholders of Rolls-Royce, with a 10% stake. From this termination it is also argued that Rolls-Royce wanted to acquire know how the pertenr regarding to re-enter the aircraft engine manufacturing after long time because Rolls-Royce was not in the business before the initiation of joint venture. And when Rolls-Royce believed that they have gained substantial knowledge of how to run the business independently, it terminated the collaboration. While Minehart and Neeman (1999) suggest an another reason stating that this close was consequence of various conflicts arising from lack of consensus on investment decisions and trust and together with imbalance in powers of decision making. Therefore, if combined these stated reasons, it was the differences in intentions, goals, conflicts, power disparity and lack of trust that cause termination of this venture. Hence, it was not the employee related issues rather some organizational level issues which caused the end the collaboration. Conclusion This essay analyses various factors which can cause failures to mergers, acquisition and particularly joint ventures. In fact, this essay analysed the statement often employee-related issues prevent a merger or acquisition from succeeding to reach a certain conclusion. This essay argues that though employee related issues play detrimental role in such collaboration, however, these issues are the result of the certain inefficient practices including inability to manage change, ineffective HR policies and practices, lack of clear objectives etc. These factors also include intentions and lack of trust and differences in objectives. The case of Rolls-Royce and BMW confirmed above ideas suggesting that, it has been the differences in intentions, goals, conflicts, power disparity and lack of trust that cause termination of this venture. Therefore, these were not the employee related issues rather some organizational level issues which caused the end the collaboration.

Student Loan Debt Should be Forgiven Essay examples -- Student Loan De

Does the amount of student loan debt have an effect on the economy? If so would forgiving student loan debt help lower the national debt or would it just increase it? According to Mary Claire Fischer, a writer for Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine, â€Å"two-thirds of students who receive bachelor’s degrees leave college with an average debt of twenty-six thousand dollars† (Fischer). This means that the average student debt has doubled since 2007 (Ross 24). The total student loan debt is $1.2 trillion with $1 trillion being from federal student loans (Denhart). This debt accounts for six percent of our nation’s $16.7 trillion debt (Denhart). Since student loan debt is such a big part of the national debt, if the student defaults on their loan then the United States tax payer has to carry the burden of the loan (Denhart). Students who are graduating with debt do have a couple of different options that they can choose from. There is a six month grace period after graduation to allow the student time to find a job and programs to try to help eliminate debt. â€Å"The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau estimates that one-fourth of the American workforce may be eligible for repayment or loan forgiveness programs† (Atteberry n.p.). The problem with these programs however, is that they are hard to get into and stick with. Some of these programs that are options for students may require that student to move to another city or even another country. This option would work well for someone who is able to move, but what about someone who cannot leave where they currently live. These graduates may not want to leave because of family for example. Another problem with these programs is that the student with loan debt must fully comp... ... Emily. â€Å"Student Loan Forgiveness: What you Don’t Know (but Should).† USA Today. 6 Dec. 2013. Web. 17 Feb. 2015. Denhart, Chris. â€Å"How the $1.2 Trillion College Debt Crisis is Crippling Students, Parents, and the Economy.† Forbes. 7 Aug. 2013. Web. 13 Mar. 2015. Fischer, Mary Claire. â€Å"Student Loan Forgiveness: What to Know.† MSN. 9 Oct. 2013. Web. 17 Feb. 2015 Morici, Peter. â€Å"Forgiving College Debt Won’t Help Students.† CNBC. 14 May 2013. Web. 24 Feb. 2015. Pisani, Joseph. â€Å"A Guide to Student Loan Forgiveness and Repayment Options.† Huffington Post. 26 Sept. 2013. Web. 21 Feb. 2015. Ross, Andrew. â€Å"Mortgaging the Future: Student Debt in the Age of Austerity.† New Labor Forum (Sage Publications Inc.) 22.1 (2013): 23-28. Academic Search Complete. Web. 13 Mar. 2015 Webly, Kayla. â€Å"Is Forgiving Student Loan Debt a Good Idea?.† TIME. 20 Apr. 2012. Web. 17 Feb. 2015.

A Streetcar Named Desire and Top Girl Essay

â€Å"Man†¦cannot learn to forget, but hangs on to the past: however far or fast he runs that chain runs with him.†- Friedrich Nietzsche (German-Swiss philosopher and writer). In the light of Nietzsche’s opinion, compare and contrast the presentation of the past as a limiting factor to the identities of the female protagonists in ‘A Streetcar named Desire’ and ‘Top Girls’ Williams and Churchill present the past as a haunting spectre that threatens the characters progress in their future life. Both playwrights construct the past as an emerging chain that, parasitic like, has clinged onto the protagonists’ present and immobilised the characters ability to function and progress. The retroactive structure of Top Girls reinforces this. Marlene attempts to escape her working class roots in the city office, but the chain of her past, her daughter Angie, imprisons her in this very environment she seeks to flee. Blanche Dubois seeks refuge in her sister’s world in an attempt to release herself from the chains of her past; presenting herself as a ‘Southern Belle’ in search of a gentleman and holding on to Old Southern traditional values: she is always incongruous to New Orleans and the future America. Initially, both playwrights present the past as a route of future imprisonment for the characters. The initial exposition of Blanche’s marriage and widowing is demonstrated through the constant symbolic sound of the traditional polish Polka; also revealing Blanche’s extreme sensitivity as a woman, to her past and vulnerability as how ‘man cannot forget’. Blanche is glued to her past suffering, and deliberately forces herself to believe that her previous experiences no longer i ntimidates her, but deep down, her remembrances haunt her, infiltrating in her present and future through the subtle sound of the disruptive Polka music, slowly becoming more and more frequent, leading up to the climax point towards the end, where Blanche reaches her tragic ‘self-destruction’, where her brother in law rapes her. The texture of the polka music creates an enhanced contextual setting of the play, where the audience gains a clearer perspective of how the past reflects on the construction of each characters psyche. Blanche ‘cannot forget’ her past, but chooses to ‘hang on to it’. Her choice of constantly remembering the sound of the Polka, is a reflection of her hesitation of wanting to progress; Blanche is her own enemy, therefore being her own barrier to overcome past dilemmas. NOT SURE WHAT ELSE TO ADD Churchill presents lies as a means of liberation for Blanche. When speaking to Stella, she laughs at â€Å"myself, myself for being such a liar. I’m writing to Shep.† Blanche unambiguously admits that she in fact, is a liar; the repetition of the personal pronoun â€Å"myself† emphasises the irony in her statement; Blanche is very well aware of her past, and so chooses to lie to avoid any future consequences through exposing the truth. â€Å"†¦neurotic and corrupted, hiding from herself behind artificial illusions.† as described by Christopher Innes in John Russel Brown (ed.) 1995: 422 Blanche is face to face with Stella, she is desperate for some Alcohol and compulsively searches Stella’s house for some liquor, â€Å"I know you must have some liquor on the place!† Blanche evidently seems to feel no shame of having a â€Å"drink† near Stella but â€Å"nervously† tamps her â€Å"cigarette† however, suddenly, further in the scene, Blanche negates a drink, when stanley arrives home from work, â€Å"No, I – rarely touch it.† and lies to Stanley as â€Å"(He holds the bottle to the light to observe its depletion.)† as he has noticed that someone has drunk some liquor. Blanche clearly feels intimidated and ashamed in having â€Å"some liquor† in the presence of the Alpha male, Stanley Kowalski, and denies the drink; however, Stanley has already seen through Blanche’s pretence and comments, â€Å"some people rarely touch it, but it touches them often†. Blanche is fully aware that the first impressions are the ones that stay, especially as she has a necessity to impress men, so she knows that if she accepts the drink and has it near Stanley, her reputation as a â€Å"Southern Belle† will be destroyed. However, Blanche seems to be quite flattered to have Stanley’s attention; and without a doubt, realises that Stanley is flirting with her, and automatically switches to her ‘past’ seductive self which she initially tried to cover up. The promptness in which Blanche reacts and gives in to Stanleys’ seductive methods, clearly shows how she cannot resist being a ‘fake’ but, cannot help but giving in to her old, past desires. Critic JJ Thompson argues that Blanche is â€Å"trapped by the sins of her past,† which to an extent is true as Blanche may not have needed to create a fake past if she had not done anything wrong. She is desperate to conceal the truth about her previous record of prostitution and promiscuity. However, it is not in fact her sins that trap her, but her desire to hold on to the values of the old south, as society demands spinsters to be the â€Å"visible manifestation of the Southern gentility and purity†¦Ã¢â‚¬  We have no clear trace of Stanley’s past, or what leads him into acting in such an manipulative manner, however, in contrast with Blanche, he does not show any signs of being ‘chained’ to his previous experiences, but shows some sort of complexity in his character, as he intimidates Blanche causing some sort of disruption in her care-free lies. This complexion could be the fact that Stanley’s apparent broken character is simply a male instinct of power possession and pride as a man. Critic Londrà © argues that Williams â€Å"intended a balance of power between Blanche and Stanley, to show that both are complex figures whose wants and behaviours must be understood in the context of what is at stake for them.† Felicia H. Londrà © in M.C. Rouande 1997: 50. At stake for both is something essentially selfish- escape for Blanche, sexual satisfaction and dominance for Stanley. Equally in Top Girls, Marlene’s sister Joyce clings on to her past. She still criticises Marlene’s judgement by accusing her that â€Å"I don’t know how you could leave your own child†. By referring still to Angie as Marlene’s child, suggests that Joyce has not accepted the past and this leads to the growth of her resentment and bitterness, and these sentiments are articulated through the monosyllabic tone of the language. Joyce seems to be imprisoned by her past as she has no means of prospering. The womanly domestic environment becomes Joyce’s biggest limitation and the ending, implies that she is enduringly trapped in the past, leaving her with no hope for the future. The stage direction â€Å"Marlene goes. Joyce goes on sitting,† allows the audience to perceive the visual impact the past has created between the mother-daughter relationship, and once again referring back to the post-feminist criticism of Feminist abandoning their concept of sisterhood and embracing a more materialistic society, who care ab out the individual, much like Margret Thatcher’s ideology. Blanche however, uses the figure of Shep Huntleigh to re-establish him as a potential date instead of recalling the past and classifying him as a failed lover in her life. Even though, this can be seen as a weakness of Blanche, she has not released â€Å"the chain† of her past but simply ‘covering the dirt up with the carpet’. Blanche feels enlightened through her ‘untrue’ past which is obvious as she laughs at herself. The tragic protagonist is all too aware of her lies, and seems to be gaining some sort of pleasure through her fake truths, which shows that Blanche is ultimately â€Å"just as phony as can be†. She cannot let go from her desire to be a delicate southern belle, who relies on the â€Å"kindness of strangers† like poor old Mitch, Stanley’s friend (not sure on how I can build on it without losing my point); rather than face her reality of being an ageing, penniless prostitute with a corrupt reputation. Blanche is far from being trapped by her sins; she is trapped by her desires, not for sexual satisfaction but for the past. Churchill also illustrates how the past can set the characters ‘free’. In Act 1, the protagonist Marlene gathers women who suffer with their past together, to feel liberated through sharing their experiences. This is an uncommon part of the play and though we do not know exactly where and when it takes place, we are aware that all the women in this scene are from the past of literature, art and history. Marlene’s story is ironically told through the historical character of Patient Griselda implying her promotion at work, Pope Joan taking over a male role as Marlene had in the office, Dull Gret fighting men, Isabella Bird leaving home and her family behind to independently travel and the historic character from Japan, Lady Nijo, who grew in an imperial court, as one that has her motherhood nature, debilitated due to her three traumas with child abduction; â€Å" taken the child† from the own father, the Emperor, â€Å"I saw my daughter once.† Marlene, the protagonist hosts a dinner party for her friends, where here, all the six women have the chance to share their ‘past’ experiences. When Nijo begins to recall her tragic history, her speech becomes more fragmented and the characters interrupt less while she talks about her past, â€Å"it hurts to remember the past† admits Lady Nijo. By gathering these persistent women in a celebration of Marlene’s job promotion, transmits a message that for the present to be fully valued, the past has to be reviewed. If Lady Nijo had not gone through her losses with her children, she had not learnt the value of being a mother, an independent woman and bearing children, leading her into being a Buddhist monk and living her life completely please herself and benefit her well-being. Marlene says, â€Å"how far we’ve all come†. This comment switches the past form regret to thankfulness of emerging from prejudice against women. The use of the pronoun â€Å"we† demonstrates that this progression is one that all women make together, supporting a feminist reading of the play as one which would argue that women build on successes of women of the past to achieve in future. Churchill presents women in Thatcherite Britain who are trying to establish a future focus, a new society where women were able to be in power. Blanche is too afraid to embrace this attitude to the past; it was essential in 1947 as America needed to establish a forward focus following the war, where the suffering past that women once went through, no longer hindered them in taking a stand. Alternatively, it can be argued that the past actually limits the female protagonists in both Top Girls and A Streetcar Named Desire. The structure of Top Girls reinforces this argument as the retroactive structure implies the past of these characters keep chasing after again and again, being unable to look towards the future, being barred by their past. Protagonist, Marlene ends up in her working class, domestic space and the past- which is ironic as she defines her success against her capacity to escape these things, which suggests that her success is not as valid as it might seem. Streetcar on the contrary, uses a linear structure where the action escalates towards the vertex, yet the characters such as Blanche cannot progress but tragically end up disheartened, owed to the past that limits her. Blanche does not accept the new world and holds on to her old world values of the past. Both playwrights therefore present unlike perceptions on the role of the past; Williams sees it as a form of escape and to move forward from, whereas Churchill insists on evaluating the impact it has on the present, as we end up re-examining Marlene’s success, rather than looking to the future.

Are You a Loser Professor Ramos Blog

Are You a Loser Joining the track team was by far the most unpredictable thing I have ever done. I was about 15 years old in the 10th grade and I wasnt planning on doing any sports in high school, but one day after school I was walking passed the track and I seen how competitive and how much fun the track team was having while they were practicing. As i was walking passed the track my friend rushed to me with a big smile on her face, excited about being on the track team. It had grabbed my attention completely after that, I knew I had to give it a chance. I was so anxious to join the track team, the next day I decided to go to the athletic directors office to get information about the track team. I walked into his office and we spoke for almost an hour! I started by telling him I felt nervous, because I didn’t know much about the sport. Finally, after that talk the athletic director had convinced me to get out my comfort zone and give this sport a try. So later on that day, after school I headed down to the track field for practice and I was already feeling anxious and out of place. I remember wearing my black old school vans with green basketball shorts and a white tank top, while everyone else was wearing tights and their track shoes. Being the only one who was unprepared for practice made me feel like I was already off to a bad start. I just tried to have a positive mindset, so I thought to myself â€Å"at least I know what to wear for next practice†. As practices went by I felt as if i wasn’t improving at all, I remember the coaches criticising me on everything I did. One day the criticism had got to me and I had enough , I thought they were always picking on me. After practice I talked to one of the coaches named coach tracy, he looked like he was in his mid 40’s and he always wore a sombrero he looked like a wise man, I talked to him about not being interested on being on the team anymore. Since there wasnt much time to talk about why I didn’t want to be on the team he asked me to speak with him in his office the next day about it and so I agreed to speak with him. I walked into his office the next day, it smelled like sweaty people in locker room it smelled like and athletes office i guess you can say. I remember walking in and seeing the look on his face changed, he became very serious but also had a face of hope, maybe hope that I would change my mind? I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I walked towards him and sat in the seat that was in front of his desk. The first thing he asked me was â€Å"are you a loser?†, I was in complete shock, and I asked him â€Å"why would you say that?†, he answered saying, â€Å"only losers give up.† He started going on explaining they only criticize me, because they want me to improve in what i do, also that it’s so important to finish what you start, because in life we have to keep moving forward through all the failures and obstacles that life throws at you. This was an eye-opener for me, it made me realize all the things I could’ve accomplished if I never gave up on previous things i’ve been through in life. At that moment I told myself I was going to succeed in all that I do, even if the process is difficult. I continued to attend practice everyday and coach Tracy even offered extra practice days on the weekend, which I decided to attend as well. During all those extra practices coach Tracy took his time with he was very patient, he taught me how to run on my toes, take breaths while running, and he also taught me how to set up my starting blocks. One of the most things I had a difficult time with was starting off, I would pop straight up from the blocks and I did it over about 30 times that day, he did not let me give up, (which I am so thankful for now). Coach Tracy was very motivating, when i felt down about doing something wrong he’d remind me to not let it get to me and keep pushing through the failures. Throughout I started to notice that this sport not only has to do with skillful techniques but it has to do a lot with ha ving a positive mindset. Throughout the season practices I felt as if I didn’t accomplish much, but I kept telling myself I will succeed. Finally one day after a long and rough practice the coaches announced when our first track meet would be. We all gathered around the coaches in a circle as they announced the assigned runs. As he was calling out everyones names and what they were assigned to, I began to feel extremely anxious. I didn’t want to participate at all because I feared all of the possible things that can happen, I thought â€Å"what if people think I suck?’, or even worse, â€Å"what if I get myself disqualified? The entire team would be upset.† All these feelings made me overwhelmed, and then i remembered i need to stay positive to succeed, all the negativity isn’t going to do anything but bring me down. I remember that first track meet, it was about 100 degrees outside and asa team we were all wearing track pants and windbreakers, can you imagine how hot we were? Words cannot explain how hot it was, I felt like I was in a sauna. Eventually we changed into our shorts to warm up for our runs. As time went by and I knew that my call for my run was coming up, I knew i needed to talk to coach Tracy to restore myself, because those feelings of anxiety started to come back. It was like he read my mind, because he came up to me and began to say that it’s my time to show everyone how confident i’ve got and and much improvement i’ve made. When he told me this, I made me feel better, because it’s the truth i’ve worked hard for this and now I get to put the work in action. Next thing you know I heard â€Å"200 meter sprint runners come up!†, my heart dropped, it’s like all the emotions of anxiety came back. I had butterflies as I walked up to the starting blocks, I got into position and â€Å"bang!† the starting gun went off, I ran with all my force and I kept going. When I heard the starting gun go off, I ran with all my force and I was third place I almost let it get to me while running but I didn’t I pushed myself to run faster and keep going and before you knew I was in first place. I seen coach Tracy waiting at the end of the finish line yelling â€Å"finish strong!† It gave me so much motivation knowing that he was there for me when I was terrible and he stood at the finish line when I was winning. The finish of the race was the absolute best feeling. The feeling of accomplishment is one of the best feelings, its indescribable how proud you can make yourself, especially with the support from those who want to see you succeed. All the hard work i’ve put in that season of practice had really paid off. I never knew how much a difference it can be to keep practicing after so many failures, I co uldn’t believe I had almost gave up that season. I knew that remaining positive and keep moving through all the failures will make you accomplish more things in life. That whole track season has made an impact on me all around. It has taught me to not give up on myself in anything, and by the end of the season I was more confident than I have ever been. This sport has showed me that it’s okay make mistakes even after so many failures. Acceptance is key to success, in life we need to learn to accept the failures and hardships we go through in order to grow and become better, and thats what track has helped me learn. Not everything comes easy it takes time and patience to grow. Now that I had that experience with track, it has honestly helped me view things differently in an optimistic way. There are many aspects in my life that track has influenced greatly. I couldn’t have done it without coach Tracy, he has made a big impact on me, he didn’t let me give up, and showed me how much more I can accomplish by being positive and pushing myself to continue to get better. Not only did I grow love for this sport but Track has helped me learn how to accept failure and continue to prosper more in my life for the future by having a positive mindset.

Transition Questions on ACT English Strategies and Practice

Transition Questions on ACT English Strategies and Practice SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Transitions are one of the most common and trickiest rhetorical topics tested on the ACT English section. However, there are a couple simple rules that can make answering these questions much easier. In this post, I'll cover everything you need to know to approach all three types of transition question: Types of transitional relationships Transitions between sentences Transitions between clauses Transitions between paragraphs Key strategies for transitions on ACT English questions Feature image credit: Justin Kern, via Flickr, under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 3 Types of Transitions The ACT covers three basic transitional relationships: addition, contrast, and causation. Understanding how these relationships work will be very helpful for the test. Addition: Words like "also" and "moreover" that indicate continuation of or elaboration on a thought. Contrast: Words like "however" and "still" that introduce a conflicting point or idea. Causation: Words like "so" and "because" that indicate a causal relationship. Let's look at some examples in context: Addition: Dorian Gray couldn't be killed. In addition, he never aged. Contrast: Vanessa knew Ethan was a werewolf. However, she was unconcerned. Causation: Frankenstein's monster threatened to hurt him if he didn't build the monster a mate, so Frankenstein did as he was told. Keep in mind that not every transition falls into one of these categories. They're more what you'd call guidelines, than actual rules. Nonetheless, thinking about transitions in these terms can help you pick out the right answer on ACT English questions, as you'll see below. Transitions Between Sentences The most common type of transition question on the ACT deals with picking the correct transition word to place between two sentences. For example: Malcom and Sam were best friends. Even so, they spent every moment of the day together. Something about this transition doesn't quite make sense. "Even so" is a contrast transition, but these to sentences aren't opposed to each other: if Malcom and Sam are best friends, it makes perfect sense that they would spend every day together. Instead it would make more sense to use a causation transition, or even drop the transition word completely: Malcom and Sam were best friends. As such, they spent every moment of the day together. Malcom and Sam were best friends. They spent every moment of the day together. We're going to cover a step-by-step approach, key transition words, and some helpful ACT English tips for questions about connecting sentences. Step-by-Step Approach Let's got through how to approach sentence transition questions step-by-step: #1: Cross out the underlined word. Always start by crossing out the word that’s there. Otherwise, if it's not obviously wrong, you may be biased in favor of the original phrasing. #2: Read to the end of the sentence. You should be doing this on every question, but it's especially important here to make sure you understand how the two sentences are related to each other. #3: Does anything seem obviously necessary/correct? Sometimes you'll read the two sentences and immediately recognize what word you would use- that specific transition may not be a choice, but you can look for synonyms. #4: What type of relationship is it? Addition, contrast, or causation? If you're not sure, it can be helpful to think about whether you would connect the sentences with and (addition), but (contrast), or so/because (contrast). #5: Narrow down your choices. Once you have a sense of what you're looking for, rule out any answers that don't make sense or that aren't grammatical. #6: Plug answer into sentence to check. When you think you have the answer, plug it into the sentence and make sure the transition is logical. We'll walk through this process with an example shortly, but first let's go over some key words and strategies that you need to know. Key Words Transitions between sentences are generally conjunctive adverbs, like "however" and "furthermore," or prepositional phrases, like "for example" and "on the other hand." You can see the most common ones below, sorted by type. Introducing Sentences Addition Contrast Causation Also However Thus Moreover On the other hand As such In fact Nonetheless Therefore Furthermore Nevertheless Consequently In addition Still As a result Similarly Instead Indeed Despite this In conclusion Meanwhile In other words Finally Next Likewise Then For example As I mentioned above, not every question will involve these types of transitions. Occasionally, you'll see other phrases or adverbs, like "in general" or unfortunately," or constructions that are specific to the context. You may also see options that are grammatically incorrect. These will generally be coordinating or subordinating conjunctions (see the chart below for examples), which can't be used immediately before a comma to introduce a complete sentence. Helpful Tips Beyond the basic concepts we've discussed, there are some ACT English-specific tips that can really help you approach transition questions. If two choices are synonyms, neither is correct. If two of the words mean the same thing (they must be synonyms, not just belong to the same category), there's no way to choose between them, so neither can be correct. When you see two choices that are synonyms, rule them both out. If one of the choices omits the transition word altogether, that's usually the correct answer. Always check any answer that leaves the transition word out first- if the paragraph works without it, that's the right answer. Transition words don't necessarily come at the beginning of the sentence. Sometimes, for example, you'll see them moved into a sentence like this one. keep in mind that they must be surrounded by commas and can't be used to connect two independent clauses without a period or semicolon. Don't panic if the three categories don't apply. Not every question deals with transitions that fit into the categories outlined above. Simply use the rest of the strategy (thinking about how the two sentences are related, narrowing down choices that don't make sense, and then plugging in the answer you think is right to check) to pick out the best answer. Watch out for questions that ask for the LEAST acceptable option. Make sure to use process of elimination to rule out any answer that does work. Real ACT Practice Question We've covered a lot of material on transitions- let's put it into practice on a real ACT question. This example is a case where the transition has been shifted into the sentence, but we'll approach it in the same way. The first step is to look at the two sentences without the transition: Snowflakes form from tiny water droplets, following a specific process of chemical bonding as they freeze, which results in a six-sided figure. The rare "triangular" snowflake confounded scientists for years because it apparently defied the basic laws of chemistry. Does an obvious transition jump out at you? Not really. On to the next question! How are these sentences related to each other? The first sentence describes how snowflakes are formed. The second brings up a seeming exception to that rule. This relationship is contrasting. Rule out answers that don't work. "Additionally" and "similarly" are too similar to choose between, so both must be wrong. "For example" doesn't make sense, since the second sentence is actually about an exception to the rule laid out in the first, not an example of it. Plug in the remaining choice. We have only "however," which is a contrast transition, left. Let's try it out in context: Snowflakes form from tiny water droplets, following a specific process of chemical bonding as they freeze, which results in a six-sided figure. The rare "triangular" snowflake, however, confounded scientists for years because it apparently defied the basic laws of chemistry. That transition makes sense, so J must be the correct answer. Image credit: Arjan Almekinders, via Flickr, under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 Transitions Between Clauses Questions dealing with transitions between clauses are very similar to those about transitions between sentences, so you can use the same approach. However, these questions involve a different set of transition words: coordinating and subordinating conjunctions. Connecting Clauses Addition Contrast Causation And But So Yet Because Unless Since While As Though Such that Although Whereas Otherwise You may see questions that mix up the different types of transitions and attempt to use a conjunction for connecting clauses to introduce a sentence or a conjunctive adverb to connect two clauses- these answers will be incorrect. Issues with transitions between clauses may also be tested in conjunction with correctly connecting independent clauses, so watch out for punctuation as well. (For more details on connecting independent clauses, check out our post on run-ons and fragments.) Let's use the strategy above to answer a real ACT example that asks about transitions between clauses: First we have to look at the underlined word and answer choices and recognize that these subordinating conjunctions, so this a question about connecting clauses and not sentences. Next, let's cut out the current transition word and break the sentence into its two component clauses (I'm also going to eliminate the descriptor at the end for simplicity): There's not much chance that a seven-year-old just learning the game can hit a pitched baseball The umpire puts the ball on top of a stationary tee Does an obvious transition jump out at you? I would use "so" or "because" to connect these two ideas. How are these sentences related to each other? Those transitions jump out at me because the idea in the first clause (that a seven-year-old can't hit a pitched baseball) clearly leads to the solution in the second (putting the ball on a tee). This connection is a causal relationship. Rule out answers that don't work. Neither "while" nor "although" can work because they're interchangeable (and both contrast transitions). "Unless" doesn't make sense. Plug in the remaining choice. Process of elimination leaves only "since," which is a causation transition. Looking at the sentence as written, we can see that it makes sense, so A is the correct answer. Transitions Between Paragraphs The final type of transition question deals with transitions between paragraphs. Rather than asking about a specific word or phrase, these usually deal with full sentences and will be phrased similarly to the following examples: Given that all of the choices are true, which one would most effectively introduce the main idea of this paragraph? Which of the following sentences offers the best introduction to this paragraph? The exact phrasing may vary, but these types of questions always ask about "transition" or "introduction." Step-by-Step Approach Because it's impossible to predict the content of an entire paragraph, it's vital that you use process of elimination for questions that ask about transitions between paragraphs. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you narrow down your choices. #1:Pay attention to what the question is asking for. Though many of these questions simply ask for the sentence that provides the best transition or introduction, some may give a more specific. Make sure to read the question carefully and think about what it's asking. #2: Read into the paragraph at least a couple of sentences. Ideally, you'll read the whole paragraph before answering transition questions, but you absolutely must read at least one sentence after the first to get a sense of the context. #3: Keep in mind types of transitional relationships. Though most of these questions don't involve transition words, it can still be helpful to consider whether there's a clear contrasting or causal relationship. #4: Look for anything that needs to be introduced because it's referred back to later in the paragraph. In the subsequent sentences, look out for pronouns like this and these that reference ideas or nouns that need to be introduced in the first sentence. This will often be the best hint for the correct answer. #5: Narrow down the choices. Rule out answers that don’t make sense or don’t fit with the general tone of the passage. #6: Plug in the sentence you think works best. When you've eliminated three choices, read the last answer in context and check that it makes sense. Not all of these steps will apply to every question- the important thing is to think about these ideas as you work to rule out choices. Real ACT Practice Question Let's walk through how to approach a paragraph transition question from a real ACT. What is the question asking for? The best transition between the paragraphs. Read both paragraphs. The first paragraph describes Quezada's discovery of and interest in the ancient pots. The second paragraph details his attempts to recreate them. Is there anything referenced later in the paragraph that needs to be introduced? The sentence that currently opens the paragraph mentions "the clay" without really explaining which clay it's talking about. Narrow down choices. We can immediately rule out F, because it's about the town and not the pottery, which is the topic of these two paragraphs. G and J are both relevant to the topic of the ancient pottery, but neither makes sense as a transition. The patterns are initially described earlier in the passage, and Quezada's painting doesn't come up until later in the second paragraph. Plug in the remaining option. Let's look at the passage with H, the only remaining option, plugged in. Fascinated by geometric designs, Quezada wondered if he could make pots like these. Quezada began working with clay from the mountains. He dug the clay, soaked it, and tried to shape it into a pot. The underlined sentence makes sense as a transition, so H is the correct answer. Image credit: Carlos Bryant, via Flickr, under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 Summary of Key Strategies for Transitions on ACT English Though transition questions can vary pretty widely, you should always use process of elimination to narrow down the possibilities. I've rounded up the most important tips from the in depth discussion above. Consider the type of transitional relationship. Thinking about how the sentences or paragraphs are related to each other is key to understanding how best to transition between them. Read the question carefully. Any time there's a written out question, make sure you know what it's asking for- don't make assumptions. Similarly, make sure you always read enough of the passage to understand the context. Use multiple choice to your advantage: If two answers are synonyms, neither is correct. If one answer has no transition word, that’s usually the correct one. Plug in the answer you think is best to check. Always make sure that an answer makes in context. If nothing else, this technique will help keep you from picking answers that indicate the right type of transition, but don't fit into the sentence grammatically. What's Next Transitions are sometimes tested in conjunction with sentence structure and punctuation, so make sure you read our complete guide to commas and our post on other punctuation marks. If you're struggling with the rhetorical skills questions, take a look at our guides on redundancy and author technique. For more big picture strategies, be sure you know the best way to approach ACT English passages and the 5 critical concepts you need to ace the test. Want to improve your ACT score by 4 points? Check out our best-in-class online ACT prep program. We guarantee your money back if you don't improve your ACT score by 4 points or more. Our program is entirely online, and it customizes what you study to your strengths and weaknesses. If you liked this English lesson, you'll love our program. Along with more detailed lessons, you'll get thousands of practice problems organized by individual skills so you learn most effectively. We'll also give you a step-by-step program to follow so you'll never be confused about what to study next. Check out our 5-day free trial:

International Business Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

International Business Marketing - Essay Example (Tai, et al 2005). Population growth rate and FDI are considered the main factors for country selection. Examining the statistical results, it is evident that China is on the top of the list having the highest population in the world (Table 1). The average rate of population growth is a lower than in India and Indonesia, nevertheless, it is expected that in 2025 the population in China will be about 1,476.0 ml, in contrast to India which will has only 1,363.0 ml (2004 World Population Data Sheet, 2005). According to the survey, "China was the largest FDI destination in the world in 2003, overtaking the US" (FDI Confidence Index, 2004). It has stable political situation, and high rates of economic growth. In case of China, FDI is a very important feature of the economies of the developing countries. For many big Western companies, expansion of their sphere of operations through the establishment of branches in other countries is regarded as a key aspect of strategy, often more important than immediate returns on capital. Many firms are seeing their investments as lower than they would have to be in the future and as providing them with a first-mover advantage as those economies begin to grow significantly. In 2003, FDI inflows were $53.5 billion. The economic health of countries is also assessed to determine whether the macroeconomic conditions are conducive to stable economic conditions. The economic prognosis says that 40% of world's investors "expected a more positive outlook on China's economy" (FDI Confidences Index, 2004). China expects liberalization of market, and that is why all those risks will be minimized. Demographic factors, taken into account together with measures such as disposable income per head, shows that China and India are two potential markets for this product. For instance, GDP per capita growth rate is the highest in China (8.8%) in contrast to other countries included in the list (GDP per capita, 2001). The penetration strategy will be based on specific product line which has not been developed yet. The strategy will be aimed to promote luxury skin care line for pregnancy and early motherhood. Estee Lauder has not promoted this product line, but its skincare product meet high quality standards making them safe for pregnant women. Cosmetics for pregnancy is based on all natural cosmetic line (Begoun, 2006) as those proposed by Estee Lauder. This strategy is important because there are limited number of companies promote this line in China (Dowling, 2006). International expansion strategy will consist of several steps. 1.The first step (during the first year) - co-operation strategy and selection of sales agents in big cities. (This step is aimed to evaluate market potential and growth rate, as well as competition tension. Estee Lauder will sale its products through drug stores and specialized stores for pregnant women in big cities around the country). 6 month - identification of potential agencies and sellers; contracting and licensing 6 month - advertising and promotion campaign, opening a Web page After the first year of performance - evaluation and analysis of the market potential 2.The second step (during the second year) - employing sales representatives and agents in order to promote products around the country (the aim is to sell products in middle-size cities through agents, drug stores and specialized stores for women; competitive rivalry on both a price and a non-price basis. 3.The third year - to

History of Planning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

History of Planning - Essay Example (National Planning Policy Framework), housing strategy and Localism Act were introduced leading to more compliance with environmental justice, availability of government incentives for home planners and builders (Bryson & Bryson, 2004). Civil War and the subsequent industrial revolution resulted to changes in U.S settlement and other social aspects. New technologies emerged and led to growth of industries, huge cities, and escalation in industrial workers. Disparagingly, cities grew with petite planning. Choices regarding construction and land use were in the hands of builders, developers, individual landowners who were out to make huge profits and consequently left little open space for expansion. Environmental degradation upsurged while developers simply focused on economic development at the expense of the existence of a sustainable environment. By the closing of the frontier a unique American society had been created. Americans became resourceful, established strength and craggy individualism that nurtured democracy. Instead of succumbing to urban problems in the collusive cities, the poor considered moving to the west which they perceived to be safe. People started living close to nature and sanitize it of civ ilization’s corruption (Bryson & Bryson, 2004). The primeval wilderness ominously improved. Due to increased land demand, Americans planned to explore cyberspace and outer space and John F. Kennedy was committed to resolve the planning issues facing Americans while leaders such as Chief Joseph, Crazy Horse, Sitting Bull and Geronimo strived to resist such changes. Cases over the best planning and utilization of land have always existed. For instance, in the case of Village of Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co, Euclid formulated a zoning ordinance that divided the land into sections that were to be used for particular purposes (Bryson & Bryson, 2004). While Euclid had the right to control and use the property, it violated Ambler’s 14th Amendment provision