A Timeline of the Russian Revolution From 1914 to 1916

A Timeline of the Russian Revolution From 1914 to 1916 In 1914, the First World War erupted across Europe. At one point, in the early days of this process, the Russian Tsar was faced with a decision: mobilize the army and make war almost inevitable, or stand down and lose massive face. He was told by some advisors that to turn away and not fight would undermine and destroy his throne, and by others that to fight would destroy him as the Russian army failed. He seemed to have few correct choices, and he went into war. Both advisors might have been right. His empire would last until 1917 as a result. 1914 June - July: General Strikes in St. Petersburg. July 19th: Germany declares war on Russia, causing a brief sense of patriotic union amongst the Russian nation and a downturn in striking. July 30th: The All Russian Zemstvo Union for the Relief of Sick and Wounded Soldiers is created with Lvov as president. August - November: Russia suffers heavy defeats and a large shortage of supplies, including food and munitions. August 18th: St. Petersburg is renamed Petrograd as Germanic names are changed to sound more Russia, and hence more patriotic. November 5th: Bolshevik members of the Duma are arrested; they are later tried and exiled to Siberia. 1915 February 19: Great Britain and France accept Russias claims to Istanbul and other Turkish lands. June 5th: Strikers shot at in Kostrom; casualties. July 9th: The Great Retreat begins, as Russian forces pull back into Russia. August 9th: The Dumas bourgeois parties form the Progressive bloc to push for better government and reform; includes the Kadets, Octobrist groups and Nationalists. Auguest 10th: Strikers shot at in Ivnovo-Voznesà ©nsk; casualties. August 17-19th: Strikers in Petrograd protest at the deaths in Ivnovo-Voznesà ©nsk. August 23rd: Reacting to war failures and a hostile Duma, the Tsar takes over as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, prorogues the Duma and moves to military headquarters at Mogilev. Central government begins to seize up. By associating the army, and its failures, with him personally, and by moving away from the centre of government, he dooms himself. He absolutely has to win, but doesnt. 1917 January - December: Despite successes in the Brusilov offensive, the Russian war effort is still characterised by shortages, poor command, death and desertion. Away from the front, the conflict causes starvation, inflation and a torrent of refugees. Both soldiers and civilians blame the incompetence of the Tsar and his government. February 6: Duma reconvened. February 29th: After a month of strikes at the Putilov Factory, the government conscripts the workers and takes charge of production. Protest strikes follow. June 20: Duma prorogued. October: Troops from 181st Regiment help striking Russkii Renault workers fight against the Police. November 1st: Miliukov gives his Is this stupidity or treason? speech in reconvened Duma. December 17/18th: Rasputin is killed by Prince Yusupov; he has been causing chaos in the government and blackened the name of the royal family. December 30th: The Tsar is warned that his army wont support him against a revolution.

The legitimate economy Essay Example

The legitimate economy Essay Example The legitimate economy Essay The legitimate economy Essay A huge reason for trying to regulate the financial market is to stop financial crime. This is caused by the human nature of greed. However it is aided by three other factors, weak governments, poor national financial regulation and corruption. One of the biggest causes has become more reported since the disaster of 9/11 which is terrorism. The terrorist need to be funded and are doe largely through illegal gains. The effect of financial crime is quite severe, it can diminish the reputation of a countries financial sector desecrating its economy. National security can be threatened with an increase in criminals using the market for illegal purposes. Interest rates can be unstable due to the high integration of capital markets. Finally it reduces tax revenues through underground economies, competes unfairly with legitimate business organisations, damages financial markets and disrupts economic development. The FSA are concerned with 3 main types of financial crime, money laundering, fraud and dishonesty, and market misconduct such as insider dealing. One of the biggest financial crime problems is money laundering, this is defined as: The methods criminals use to hide and disguise the money they make from their crimes9 In other words it is the way that criminals make it incredibly hard to trace their monies origins back to anything illegal. This process can be done in small or large ways and has been made easier by the development of technology and its use in the global financial market. In 1920 the American Mafia found that they could do this in large amounts through starting legitimate businesses such as launderettes or slot machine companies. In todays society it is possible to transfer huge amounts of money in seconds all around the world through many different accounts and transactions. Each transaction makes it harder to trace the origins of the money. 10 It is currently estimated that the amount of money that is laundered world-wide makes up 2. 5% of the worlds gross domestic product (GDP). This constitutes to between an amazing 590 billion dollars to 1. 5 trillion. The lower figure would be the equivalent to Spains economic output per year. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) reported these figures. The process of money laundering comprises of three different sections. The first is placement, the second layering and lastly integration. Placement was discussed in the case of Crown v Duff11. The placement is the break up of large sums of money into smaller amounts. Layering is where the criminal engages in a series of transactions to disguise the money from its source. Integration is where the money has re-entered the legitimate economy. Obviously the easier it is to launder money the more that will be laundered. The FATF was set up as an inter-governmental organisation, which aims to develop and promote policies to combat money laundering. Currently the FATF has 31 members. Money laundering was to be tackled by many different institutions in the UK. The police would obviously be close to the acts of criminals, which would include money laundering. However the police only deal with minor offences, major cases are passed on to specialised agencies such as MI5 and MI6. The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) is an independent governmental institution, which prosecutes for serious or complex fraud. The SFO was established in 1988 after trials, just after the FSA 1986, however it was created by the Criminal Justice Act 1987 (CJA). The flaw with the SFO is that it only investigates fraud of over 1 million pounds and so can be avoided if the money laundered is anything below this limit. The National Criminal Service (NCIS) works on behalf of the police and other law enforcers and is one of the special organisations mentioned above. The Economic Crime Branch was developed as a specialist division of NCIS primarily dealing with economic offences, such as money laundering. This was created after the FSMA 2000 but obviously not a bi-product of it. However the organisation would work closely with the FSA, this was greatly received news as John Abbott, the director of NCIS stated: This important agreement reflects the increasing focus on anti-monetary laundering activities that NCIS has long supported. 12 Since the FSMA the FSA have produced a Handbook of Rules and Guidance. This Handbook is like a code of conduct that all financial business organisations must follow or risk losing their licence of trade issued by the FSA itself. In respect to money laundering, all business organisations and individuals that carry out a regulated activity must be assessed to be competent, honest and is financially sound. Once authorised, the FSA supervise the financial businesses to make sure, among other things, that suspicious transactions are reported and that precautionary procedures are implemented effectively. All of the procedures are highlighted to the firms in the newly issued Code of Market Conduct and those firms that are found not to be following the code can have a financial penalty given to them or could even lose their authorisation of trade. Further powers are given to the FSA in respect to criminal activities through the Criminal Justice Act 1993 and the Money Laundering Regulations 1993. The FSA have powers of enforcement including the power to interview and seize documents. The FSA decide which cases to investigate through a policy of risk taking, they take in to consideration the impact the cases have on the regulatory objectives set be FSMA and the general principles of good regulation. However, the FSA has to consider the Human Rights Act 1998, stemmed from the European Convention on Human Rights, to ensure that they are not acting illegally. The SIB was given both legislative and administrative powers and supervised the numerous SROs and Recognised Professional Bodies (RPBs) within the financial market. The SIB gave licenses to the business organisations to trade in the UK financial economy but it was the RPBs who regulated the policies of the professional organisations such as the Law Society and Lawyers. The SIB was designed to combine self-regulation and statutory regulation covering a wider scope than had been seen previously. The FSA 1986 also supported for standard and administrative criminal sanctions, affording civil remedies to investors who suffered a loss as a result of contravention of its provisions, or those of sub-ordinate rules and regulations or the corresponding provisions of SROs. The CJA 1993 and the MLR 1993 aided the SIB in prosecuting those who knowledgeably or negligently aided in the process of money laundering. The labour party decided, as well as other reasons, that the process of regulation was expensive as well as the fact that there had been at least two major scandals in the 1990s which was evidence enough to suggest that the system was flawed. The FSA was created with its statutory objectives and its immense powers to regulate more of the financial market than ever before, making some people wary of making the institution too bureaucratic or unaccountable. The FSMA gave the FSA many of these powers creating the legal framework to support such a large organisation. It ensured that not only was the FSA the body to authorise and supervise but also to prosecute. The FSA would be able to work closely with other organisations such as the Serious Fraud Office. The FSA claimed that, in relation to money laundering: We will be doing more work across the whole financial sector to assess the effectiveness of firms money laundering controls and customer identification procedures. 13 However, statute helped the SIB to do exactly the same thing, the difference being that the FSA has complete control over the process including request or suggestions of new legislation to aid it in the fight against money laundering. Phillip Thorpe, MD of the FSA stated: the new act will for the first time give us new powers to instigate criminal prosecutions and to fine firms where their arrangements fail to come up to standard14 In conclusion, the SIB was on the right track in relation to money laundering; it identified where the problems could / would be and tried to enforce a Code of Conduct to ensure that financial organisations were operating at a standard that ensured that money laundering would be very difficult. However, the SIB lacked the powers necessary and werent able to supervise all parts of the financial services. There were many pieces of legislation made to aid the SIB such as the CJA and the MLR but neither allowed the SIB to enforce directly without going through the SROs. The FSA have been given more scope and enforcement as well as prosecution powers than the SIB ever had. The FSA is able to work with other organisations to ensure that they can meet objectives that the SIB lacked. However, I believe that the FSA could not be in such a powerful position without the aid of the SIB. The reason for this is because the SIB created a hierarchy that allowed self-regulation and had the policies to deal with money laundering but was unable to put itself into practice because of the lack of power and direct communication with the financial market. The FSA has been able to take the powers from the HM Treasury and the SIB who allowed the SROs to be abolished. The SROs wouldnt have been able to prepare the financial market in such a way as if the FSA came into force in 1986. To summarise, I think that the FSA 1986 or the SIB was a preparatory stepping stone in the evolution of financial services regulation and the FSA wouldnt be in the position it is now to deal with financial crime if this evolution had not occurred. However, the effectiveness of the FSA is yet to be determined and ultimately only time will show evidence of success or failure.

Marketing Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Marketing Management - Essay Example A wide range of food programs and food festivals are organized in Singapore which witnesses a strong level of participation from a wide array of expert level international chefs from various corners of the world. This automatically makes the market of Singapore a birth place of various kinds of innovative food based delicacies as well as bakery products. Discussing on the lines of the bakery products, it can be said that the market of Singapore can be divided on the lines of bread based offerings, cakes, biscuits as well as breakfast cereals (Euromonitor.com, 2011). However, it also has to be said that the Singapore has a large number of Muslim population, which forms the Halal market in the region. It is highly interesting to state that the South East Asia, which includes the region of Singapore, is homes to around 250 million Halal oriented consumers. Talking about the valuation of the south east Asia market formed by the 250 million Halal consumers, it can be highlighted that the market stands at an astounding 93,000 million USD (Daganhalal.com, n.d.). It is also very important to highlight the fact that the region of Singapore, which falls under the category of South East Asia has a tremendous and growing potential for becoming one of the leading Halal based food markets, mainly because of the fact of the region being a major transhipping centre. Also, it has to be said that the Muslim presence in the Singapore region comprises to over 60% of the entire population of Muslim located all over the world (Min, Global Halal Food Industry, p. 7). Source: Global Halal Food Industry. Hence, it can be said that there exists a unique opportunity in the bakery market to cater to the inward as well as outward growth that is emerging from the Halal market of Singapore. Market Trends Discussing the trends that are currently evolving in the market of Singapore, it can be said that the trends are similar to that of the bakery market of south East Asia. It is to be mentione d that the bakery industry existing in these markets is highly dependent on the series of factors. The factors are a mixture of macroeconomic as well as lifestyle trends like strong growth of the regional economy, growing living standards of the masses, influence of western oriented lifestyle as well as busy lives of the masses (PRWeb.com, 2013). The factor of shortage of time in the hands of the masses in regards to preparation of traditional meals is playing a tremendous catalytic role in spreading the growth of the bakery industry in the market of Singapore. The bread and bakery industry of the region has a highly diversified consumer portfolio. Talking in regards to the future market trends for this particular sector in the Singapore region, it can be said that the manufacturers and retailers will try to attain a growth in the business by leveraging on the highly diversified consumers base. In order to develop a competitive edge in the business as well as for better positioning of their products, the manufacturers and retailers of the bread industry will try to introduce innovative products which will be segmented and targeted specifically to consumers on the basis of their age group. Market Growth While discussing the factors of market growth, it has to be brought in to focus that the bakery market of Singapore grew at a rate of 7.9 % on a compound annual basis between the 5 year period of 2004 to 2009 (Datamonitor.com, 2012). During this period the bread and

Aboriginal studies Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Aboriginal studies - Research Paper Example Natives of the South -- southeast and southwest -- lived somewhat similar and different social environments and had their own unique means of using, controlling, and changing their inhabitation. Bonds of social set up were so strong that the Southern natives did not loose hold of their social and cultural identity while adapting to the ways of modern agriculture. In the matter of practicing refined ways of cultivation, the natives of southeast followed comparatively advanced methods of farming than their counterparts. The theme of religion in its purest form of following rituals and in the wider perspective of believing in the existence of God was pervasive in all functions of life. There were cultural differences as well as similarities as based on the geographical distribution of land that culminated in their choice of practicing different professions other than farming but natives of South believed in the oneness of all human beings on the spiritual grounds. Natives had a sharp se nse of the natural cycle and practiced different modes of livelihood to save themselves from the vagaries of nature. Before comparing the environmental and social organization of the natives of southeast and southwest, it is logical to know the physical boundaries that divided them. The Southeast culture area is the semi-tropical region that extends from the Atlantic Ocean Westward to way ahead of Trinity River in today’s Texas, and from the Gulf of Mexico towards north following different latitudes through the modern states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina. The Southwest aboriginal culture has its expansion from the southern corners of modern times Utah and Colorado south via Arizona and New Mexico, including Texas, California, and Oklahoma, into Mexico. This physical division of both regions creates curiosity to compare the social and environment organization of both the regions. According to Charles Hudson,

Sun and earth Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Sun and earth - Assignment Example The theory was supported across the world from Greeks and further through mathematical astronomy by Aryabhata (Indian); by Muslim astronomers, Persian scientist and astronomer Biruni and through various publications across the world. It has given a new paradigm to the world of astronomy and hence paved the way to our present thoughts about the solar systems and other galaxies which were discovered due the formulation of heliocentric theory (Encyclopedia Britannica). On the other hand, geocentric model provided the earlier view that the Earth is in the center while, the Sun, the stars and other planets revolve around it. The stars are spinning about the pole and those which are close to the equator are rising and setting each day. The theory laid the fundamental view that Earth is rock-solid and stationary. The pioneer of this theory was Aristotle but with the advent of early modern era and after the 16th century, geocentric views were replaced by heliocentric theory (Lawson,

The relationship between double dissociations and cognitive processes

The relationship between double dissociations and cognitive processes A relationship implies the way things interconnect and includes ways these groups regard and behave towards one another. Double Dissociations (DDs), modularity and connectionist modeling (CM) will be introduced. Discussions about their strengths and weaknesses, how advances in technology have added value to existing data and possible theoretical models will follow. Research community opinions will be explored as these factors impact the extent to which these processes uphold one another. Prior to 1960 the brain was primarily understood in terms of behaviorism where human behavior was thought of in actions of stimuli and response rather than through structure and organizational process (Cohen, 2000). Computer technology and cognitive psychology seemed to be a natural match as cognitive psychologists frequently used computers for analogies to explain the human brain. Armed with philosophies concerning modularity scientists started to explore ways in which computer technology could model actions of the human brain (Parkin, 1997). Cognitive neuropsychology leans on the theoretical framework provided by cognitive psychologists and detailed observation of brain behaviors and is noted for comparing differences between how an intact system works and what happens when it becomes damaged. Parkin (1997) shares an example of the difference between determining function for individual modules of an intact television set. He points out that observing modular failures in the set may be more informative than separating out the multiple components and how they contribute to media transmission. Even if one is ignorant of the workings of a television, by observing consistent mechanical failures it can be noted that it is possible for a television to lose sound and retain a picture or to retain the picture and lose the sound. By this it could be assumed that the components are independent of one another. The same principles can be applied to mechanical failure in a car or in the human brain where these observations can be foun d in the form of Double Dissociation (DDs) (Parkin, 1997). Dissociation is the process of identifying the neural substrate of a specific area of brain function. DD was a term originally used in statistics where 2 independent variables (IV) have different effects on two dependent variables (DV) where one IV affects DV1 but not DV2 and the second IV affects DV2 but not DV1 (Tauber,1955). In neuropsychology 2 independent brain areas are functionally dissociated by 2 cognitive tests. DDs are seen as the result of traumatic damage, disease or congenital deformities and offer a window into processes that normally operate in symbiotic ways such as the ability to understand and communicate with language (Parkin, 1997). DDs are sometimes criticised as reductionist however they can be vital signposts for estimating functional perimeters. DDs are useful for showing what happens when functional impairment occurs in one area of the brain leaving another area intact, while in other individuals the opposite functional pattern emerges (Shallice, 1988). It is challenging to find DDs where there are no mitigating factors or co-morbid conditions and some researchers recommend a classification system to rate DD extent and quality (Shallice, 1988; Parkin, 1997). DF is an individual with a single dissociation. She sustained Visual Form Agnosia when her ventral stream, the area responsible for the conscious identification of visual objects became impaired. Visual areas in the dorsal stream needed to identify color and texture remained intact so she could identify fruits and vegetables but was unable to identify a card, even though she was able to push it through a slot. She could draw on long term memory to draw objects but later when asked to identify them could not (Milner and Goodale cited in Datta, 2004). D.B. another person was found to have unconscious/covert visual function, allowing her to do better than chance on forced choice experiments which tests knowledge of areas she claimed not to see (Stoerig Cowey, 1992). DDs are noted in the contrast between deep dyslexia and surface dyslexia. The term dyslexia describes disorders of language concerning reading and spelling and can be acquired as the result of trauma or can be present at birth).Deep dyslexics have semantic, visual and reading errors (Plaut Shallice, 1993), they fail to name pseudo words but can name some exception words indicating the non lexical or visual route remains impaired but the phonological/lexical route was intact. Surface dyslexics can accurately name the pseudo words but demonstrate difficulty when pronouncing exception words such as pint which they pronounce as though it rhymed with lint. This indicates the non lexical/ visual route is intact but the lexical/phonological is impaired (Naish, 2000). Connectionist modeling (CM) is the process of using the computer to model various components of brain function so the patterns of how they work together can be observed. CMs, like the brain are layered for sequential tasks. The influence of the neuron is based on the strength of its connection and learning or recognition is achieved by altering the strengths of connections between learning. In models this is accomplished by assigning weights and connections that are determined by predetermined rules (McLeod, Plunkett Rolls, 1998) Modeling relies on gaining understanding of cognition through rule-guided transformation of mental representations. Hinton Shallice (1991) designed a connectionist model and used this to replicate co-occurrences of semantic and visual errors. After training the model to map from orthography to semantics it was lesioned. Three common network properties were identified to reproduce deep dyslexia, distributed orthographic/ semantic representations, gradient descent learning and attractors for word meanings. A fourth factor proved valuable which consisted of increasing the ratio of concrete to abstract semantics. The network replication proved useful for studying deep dyslexic patterns however may not be an accurate representation of how the brain learns (Plaut Shallice, 1993). DD and connectionist modelling have worked together to explore prosopagnosia, (face blindness). Face recognition has been traced to the fusiform area of the brain and because it is domain specific and information encapsulated there are characteristic of modularity present (Carlson, 2007). In Prosopagnasia it is common for face perception to show impairment, while object recognition remains intact (Cohen, 2000). Within prosopagnosia some people retain covert recognition without overt recognition. (De Haan, Young, Newcombe, 1987) explored this, utilizing behavioural techniques with PH, who sustained trauma related prosopagnosia. PH was only able to recognize two out of multiple faces he was tested on, moreover he was unable to discern famous from common faces above the level of chance, yet he retained the ability for covert recognition which was identified by the use of galvanic skin response testing and forced word choice testing where he did better than would be possible by chance. CM to study prosopagnosia was adapted to investigate whether recognition was sequential and temporally driven and how the information was linked to determine comprehension. (Cohen et al, 2000). It was found significance in the first process is unnecessary for successful execution of the adjacent process and this observation was later strengthened by FMRI findings (Cohen et al, 2000). Adjustments to face recognition CM were the result of what was already known through DDs about overt and covert recognition. The model allowed repetition of the patterns and the ability to alter parameters to resolve questions about timing versus modular involvement. Hidden layers in the network work to average error across the network and the covert learning is seen in the model. It learns by minimizing error to produce responses for information not directly inputted to the model (Cohen, Johnston Plunkett, 2000) LaVoi Naish, (2009) urge that the simplicity of available cognitive models cant mirror the complexity of the human brain and that at best the networks are useful for modeling small tasks. Cognitive neuroscience was originally dominated by case studies, cognitive modelling in the form of neural networks and carefully developed neuropsychological testing tools. DDs were critical tools for discovery (Parkin, 1997). Modularity was observed through behaviour and confirmed at post mortem or through animal studies. Technology lacked capacity to ethically observe structural brain changes in living participants. The brain was dissected and stained after dearth so changes could be observed. Differences in function were more readily seen by brains that were damaged (Parkin, 1997). DDs provided and continue to contribute valuable information in living patients and in lesioned laboratory animals. Brain impairments can also be explored and charted through case studies of cognitive dysfunction in humans and animals. There is considerable research done with animal models due to ethical and financial constraints. One added advantage of animal studies is that multiple generations can be studied in fewer years than it takes a human to reach maturity (Carlson, 2007). Recently Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) technology has been used to approximate a lesioned condition however TMS is temporary and fails to show results of long-term impairments. Hubel and Wiesel used kittens to demonstrate extended light deprivation during critical periods in development can cause permanent visual impairment. When light was restricted to one eye, the seeing eye took over function; however the kittens failed to develop binocular vision. Research delivered insight for ocular dominance and childhood cataracts (Goldstein, 2001). They contributed to visual neurophysiology by demonstrating how signals from the eye are processed by the brain where they generate detection of motion, edges, color and depth perception (Carlson, 2007). The research supports cortical plasticity studies by revealing plasticity can be developmentally triggered as well as domain specific. Similar activity occurs in hearing and motor domains (Ramachandran, Altschuler, 2009). The brain is dynamic and adapts in impairment which has implications for modularity assumptions and consequent rehabilitation (Purves, 2008). A 1949 manuscript cited by Scoville and Milner (1957) reveals findings of significant memory loss in two patients with medial temporal lobe surgery (MTLS including the hippocampus. In 1957 Scoville and Milner warned other surgeons not to overlook the role of the hippocampus which brings us to the study of HM. HM was one of Scovilles patients in 1953 and a victim of MTLS. HMs difficulty began with a bike accident at age seven, initially recovery seemed normal but three years later HM sustained intractable seizures. At age 27, HM underwent experimental surgery in hope of limiting seizure activity. The bilateral medial temporal lobe MTLS reduced seizure activity but also impaired HMs ability to learn new information, mental processing speed, and episodic explicit memory, resulted in language impairment and erased long term memory (Scoville and Milner, 1957; Corkin, 1984; Sagar et al., 1985). He remained a case study from age seven until after his death at age eighty three. Ironically one of the few individuals he continued to recognize was Dr. Scoville who remained involved with his care until his death. There is no evidence of Scoville blaming others or shirking responsibility for his surgical actions. After HMs death at his request and with the guidance of his guardian, HMs brain was donated to science to help others. HMs brain was dissected and the procedure broadcast online (Science Blogs, 2009) HMs cognitive impairments spanned memory, visual, and language domains providing a long term picture of how network involvement and developmental changes may follow the removal of domain specific anatomy. These impairments were more clearly defined by recent advances in imaging technology such as high definition functional magnetic resonance imaging available in HMs later years however some of the impairments may have been present from the onset of his epilepsy. Deficits on tests of executive functions and hippocampal involvement are common unusual in epilepsy patients, pre and post surgery. They can be prone to perseveration as well as language and motor skill impairments (Hermann et al., 1988; Horner et al., 1996; Martin et al., 2000; Trenerry and Jack, 1994). H.M.s neurological examination in 2005 reveals his medications still included prescribed anti seizure medications, Tegretol, Paxil, and Tegretol-X. Additionally in 2002-4 when HMs brain was re-scanned extensive white matter damage and corpus callosum fiber and cortical thinning beyond that considered normal for his age group was discovered in addition to the original damage from the resection. This may indicate modular damage can impair the networks and other modules that interface with it. Initially there was resistance in the medical community to naming the hippocampus as the seat of memory because animal models did not demonstrate the same degree of disruption as HM (Barr, Goldberg, 2003). This cultural mindset and lack of information may have been a factor in Scovilles failure to recognize the earlier warning signs about memory retention and hippocampal involvement. The hippocampus was gradually accepted by the medical community as a structure having domain specific function that was critical to information encapsulation. More recently it has been noted that memory may have significant network features mediated by paths in the frontal lobes rather than an exclusively domain specific module (Barr, Goldberg, 2003). Case studies such as HM (Henry Molaison) are valuable to cognitive neuroscience as they can show the transition of theory over time and how views on what constitute modularity are subject to change. There are similar findings where severe childhood brain injury led to widespread long term negative effects on white matter architecture and restricted the potential for brain growth. Damage patterns in the hippocampus indicate the white matter injury may come from the lesions restricting long term cerebral blood flow (Tasker, 2006). Neural network architecture could possibly model patterns of learning but would lack the capacity to predict developmental cascades in organic brain matter (Shallice, 1988). Scientists such as Broca who identified the segment of brain mainly responsible for language understanding and Wernicke who found areas relative to speech production are examples of how DDs increase understanding of localist function. Broca and Wernicke both researched aphasia post-mortem at the same time period in history and compared cases (Purves, 2008). Wernicke identified the area of the brain responsible for language comprehension and named it Wernickes area. Carl Wernicke was the scientist who discerned there was a regional difference between patients with aphasia dividing those with expressive aphasia (produce language) and those who sustained receptive aphasia (understand language) Wernicke located impaired language patients whose left frontal lobe was intact. These patients experienced language impairments in the area of comprehension and even though their speech was well formed it made little sense. Wernicke found that the area of the brain damaged in these patients was a small area in the left parietal cortex. Wernickes area is considered responsible for accessing words and decoding them for speech, whereas Brocas patients could understand language but could not transform them into understandable speech (Purves, 2008). Broca found speech accuracy impairment in expressive aphasia was due to the brains inability to produce language rather than the mouth failing to produce words. (Purves, 2008) Brocas patients included Leborgne who could only repeat the word tan and Lelong whose vocabulary consisted of only five words. Both patients were found to have lesions in the left frontal lobe an area later named as Brocas area. These patients led Broca to assume speech was region specific in the brain. Brocas area is presumed to be the syntax module and Wernickes area the semantics module (Purves, 2008). Wernicke and Brocas areas until recently appeared to fill some of Fodors (2000) conditions for modularity including domain specificity, autonomy and information encapsulation. The extent of this modularity is being examined in the light of more recent findings incorporating high tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Additional damaged areas are now identified as contributing to speech disruption. It was found that although Brocas area specific lesions can cause speech disruption, they are unlikely the source of complete and permanent speech impairment (Dronkers, Plaisant, Iba-Zizen, Cabanis E (2007). Additional evidence that Brocas area can be largely destroyed and language can remain intact was presented in a case study involving a computer engineer who had a tumor in Brocas region. The tumor and Brocas area were destroyed but he was able to function with minimal language problems and return to his work 3 months post surgery (Grodzinsky Santi 2002). Ongoing problems included an inability to create complex sentences, or relay reported speech. The problems were reported as working memory deficits and his recovery was explained by neural plasticity of the surrounding cortical area and a shift of some function to the right hemisphere (Grodzinsky Santi 2002). It seems unlikely that working memory could be the causation factor as the occupation he returned to is one highly dependent on working memory access. There is no report of auditory working memory in this individual differing from his visual working memory so it may be that Brocas area is not so easily dismissed (Grodzinsky Santi 2002). Figure 1 Broca and Wernicke areas NIH publication 97-4257, http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/voice/aphasia.asp (accessed 17/04/2010) Evidence from children who learn to read after a TBI indicate those who relearn reading or recover language may not be as fluent as they were previously (Ewing-cobb, Barnes, 2002). The adverse effects of diffuse axonal injury extend to linguistic development in the areas of discourse processing, lexical development and reading. An analogy could be the functional capacity deficit experienced when one injures the writing hand and has to adjust to using the alternate one. It appears the older and more expert a child reader is at the time of injury the better chance they have of functional recovery in the area of language (Ewing-cobb, Barnes, 2002). The areas of working memory and speed of processing for mediating recovery were acknowledged by Ewing-cobb and Barnes as an area for further research. Functional MRI (FMRI) reveals more explicit localization in the way language is used than that proposed by Broca and Wernicke as evidenced by (Lyons, Mattarella-micke, Cieslak, et al, 2009) who maintain language activates domains and networks beyond the areas commonly ascribed to language processing and that the expanded process influences the language experience. Gonzà ¡lez, Barros-Loscertales, Pulvermà ¼ller, Meseguer, Sanjuà ¡n, Belloch, et al. (2006) found that neural areas which access word meaning can include related sensory systems. For instance accessing the meaning of the word vanilla may activate the olfaction and gustatory systems. Action language can activate motor regions used to complete these actions (Lyons et al, 2009). One example (figure 5) shows left dorsal premotor cortex activity. This area is considered central to selection of higher level action plans and contributes to increased comprehension of sport specific and signals increase in strength in accordance with levels of expert learning (Beilock et al., 2008). This is much like the trend cited by Posner, (2004) in regards to the fusiform area being more than face specific with expert learners. Hickok Poeppel, 2007; Vigneau, Beaucousin, Herve, Duffau, Crivello, 2006) found left dorsal premotor cortex activity is modulated by personal experience when category specific action related language is used (figure 5) Figure 2 Shows brain activation differences between expert and novice hockey players when category specific language is introduced indicating language is also accessed via motor pathways (Lyons, Mattarella-micke, Cieslak, et al, 2009) This may have profound implications for cognitive rehabilitation when Brocas or Wernickes area are damaged however it is important to note that in spite of the coordination of other networks these areas are still largely domain specific for functional capacity. Cognitive models can be supportive in logging where, and to what extent cognitive functioning is systematically impaired or spared. They can offer some insight as to whether the function in question is mainly modular or if it is distributed like a network (Cohen et al, 2000, McLeod, Plunkett, and Rolls, 1998: Parkin, 1993). Present cognitive models lack the processing power to model complex modules and the inclusion of multi sensory network architecture (|Naish, 2000) The modularity assumption is ascribed to philosopher Fodor who conceptualizes the brain as having modular characteristics and goes on to define modularity as domain specific, autonomous, innately specified, hardwired (neuronal path specific), informationally encapsulated, and not assembled (Coltheart,1999). Multiple areas of the brain are considered to have modular characteristics but do not meet all the criteria for Fodors model by (Cohen, Johnson Plunkett, 2000). Fodor insists he has never maintained the brain is modular but only that it contains modular characteristics which he goes on to describe. Fodor (1983) does not believe the mind is massively modular explainable by computational or excessively modular models, instead his emphasis is on the function of a mental state rather than its biology and he maintains modularity can be by degrees rather than on an all or nothing basis (Fodor,2000). Fodor (1983) gave his model (figure 2) three components. The transducers act like perception whose task is to convert precepts or stimuli into signals for neurons. The input systems he envisions interpret the information within mainly modular platforms. The central system operates as an executive system Fodor suggests basic aspects of vision, and language have modular characteristics and Fodor describes the central system as responsible for reasoning, problem solving analysis and making choices as network mediated (Fodor, 2000). The diagram below shows a limitation of this model in that it is feed forward only without feedback networks. Figure 3 Fodor, J.A. (1983) the Modularity of Mind, MIT Press/Bradford Books Scientists such as Posner, 2003; Gordon, Arns Paul, 2008 and Williams, Brown,, Palmer, Liddell, Kemp, Olivieri, et al. 2006) have credited neural network models as learning tools from which they have derived theoretical models of how the brain learns (Posner Carr, 1992) Two of these models will be briefly described to demonstrate that neural networks contribute to the understanding of the functional patterns of the brain. Rennie, (2001) a physicist, models the large-scale electrical activity of the brain and mapped the neuronal activity from temporal and localist assumptions. His model has contributed to the development of the integrate theory model where conceptual knowledge of cognition, biology, modelling, physics and even psychiatry are combined to propose how the brain integrates cognitive and emotional feedback(Gordon, Arns , Paul,2008 ). The integrate model could allow for cognitive function based on fight/flight mechanisms and internal/external motivators while still retaining the modular aspects. Although the integrate model was conceptualized by information accessed by observing Rennies cognitive modelling of the brain, contributions of genomics, neuropsychology, psychiatry, case studies, neuro-imaging and meta analysis are in use to further develop the model (Gordon, Arns , Paul,2008 ). This model explores age and temperament stimulus processing changes, and possibilities for personalized psycho-active drug formulation. Fight /flight response is represented in how emotion is processed and its affect on language response. In this model there is feedback and feed forward mechanisms at all levels (Williams, Brown, Palmer, Liddell, Kemp, Olivieri, et al. (2006). Figure 4 Integrate Model http://brainNET.net (accessed 11/04/2010 Posner employed cognitive modelling networks investigating patterns for attention which informed his theory on executive attention networks and assisted the design of attentional network training for children (Posner Rothbart, 2007). This computer training module used in his research demonstrates functional neural plasticity in that long-term gains in attention, language skills, working memory, visual perception and executive functioning are observed (Thorell, Lindqvist, Nutley, Bohlin, Klingberg, T. 2009). The advantages extend to near and far transfer tasks such as language acquisition, working memory and cognitive load capacity. Posner describes the brain as a network but does not deny domain specificity plays a role in identifying localization. His emphasis is on mental states, a position similar to Fodor, (Posner Rothbart, 2005). Posner refers findings which favour localized mental operations as an opportunity to explore neural plasticity and uses elements of face processing to support his position. Posner references the common activation that occurs in the fusiform area when experts think about a domain of expertise rather than an exclusive face recognition task. He maintains that if we see localizations in the form of mental operations it would be natural for to share operations in common (Posner, 2004). In fact (Corbetta Shulman, 2002) show localization of separate mental operations within the parietal lobe which merge with a larger network to align attention to specific targets (McCandliss, Cohen, Dehaene, 2003) Posner and Tang (2009) have recently explored attention state models and how they influe nce learning and communication. See a diagram of Posners conceptual model below: Posner model of localization of aspects of executive attention states www.dana.org/NEWS/cerebrum/detail.aspx?id=23206 accessed (14/04/2010) The relationship between DDs and the modularity of cognitive processes in conjunction with the role CMs play is informed by ongoing research. Ellis and Young (1988) indicate unearthing a double dissociation, is only a starting point as processes and the aspects they mediate in common need careful identification. Crowder (1972) comments investigating the necessity of a two process theory may be more informative than the properties of individual processes (Plaut, 2003). DDs and CMs may oversimplify functional processes leading to distorted perceptions of neuroanatomical systems. Dividing executive function and episodic memory may undermine mutual network connections to temporal lobe systems, (Barr, Goldberg, 2003) DDs are useful for showing what happens when functional impairment occurs in one area of the brain leaving another area intact, while in other individuals the opposite functional pattern emerges (Parkin, 1997). The correlations can act as a reference in a similar way to a labelled fuse box which points the way to the specific appliance that caused an overload malfunction in the system. Fuses can be individually tested for function and the electrical impairment can be isolated for further review. CM simulates to some extent how patterns can develop in response to stimuli and injury. CMs work on an input in/out basis and as a result are unable to account for the complexities of phenotype variations influencing cognition (Naish, 2000). The patterns themselves are more concrete than abstract concepts and this may lead to insights about how specific cognitive processes work. FMRI, TMS, Galvanic skin response, single cell electrical recording, Magneto-encephalography, Quantitative encephalography, Positive electron tomography, Single photon emission computed tomography methods all allow neuro-anatomical functional observations with living individuals/animals. This informs understanding about modularity and the interaction of adjacent structures. It is important to note that each technology has limitations, MRI with temporal resolution, MEG and QEEG with spatial resolutions. With TMS artificial lesions can be created without harm to living participants by means of magnetic stimulation however, this process is time limited and can produce artefacts. These methods add to the foundation laid by early cognitive neuroscience and in some cases lead to confirmation or disputes about the original findings (Carlson, 2007). Bowers (2009, 2010) for instance notes single cell recordings may be consistent with localist coding rather than a distributed model based on the fact that neurons in the hippocampus and certain areas of the cortex may selectively respond to one stimulus out of many. His assumption is that because the IA word identification model uses single units to code for specific units it is not distributed. Parallel Distributed Processing networks (PDP)s rely on graded constraints and interactivity to determine actions that are consistent with the systems knowledge as determined by connection weights between units. However, (Plaut and McClelland, 2010) claim PDP neural network could learn localist grandmother cells in training specific learning conditions. The CMs are built from mathematical formulas using incomplete knowledge, they can be useful for showing patterns however it is illogical to expect them to uphold something they were only created to simulate and this thinking leads to unintentional error in interpretation. Statistically constructed mathematical computer models are built by the National Institute of Highway Safety to assess levels of diffuse axonal brain injury using squid axons (IIHS, 2007). These axons are electrical synaptic models rather than the chemical synaptic structure commonly found in human brains. Chemical synapses are less robust and more vulnerable to secondary cell death than the electrical synaptic structure (Roberts, 2005). Myelination damage cannot be measured by squid axon models. The resulting inaccuracies prejudice compensation claims for diffuse axonal injury survivors who often sustain language and vision impairments as the squid axon model can survive higher impact without brain damage. (Price, 2007) Cohen reports being disturbed by the ad hoc tinkering of connectionists trying to make the model work. Naish retorts that if connectionists tinker it is only to appear to model what neuro-physiologists claim to have found. He notes the complexity of the brain and notes this leave cases open for contamination by extraneous variables (Naish, 2009). Parkin (1997) states DDs may contain co-morbidities and research will reflect this. Literature tends to report simple conditions because they are easier to understand (Naish, 2009). Rebuttals can include neuro-psychologists calling connectionists tinkerers and connectionists accusing neuro-psychologists of cherry picking cases. This may reflect frustrations of research demands in a rapidly evolving field. Hinton reports CMs require labelled training data and most data learning relevant data is not constrained by labels. The signals CMs attempt to replicate require different equations than biological neural signals creating comparative discrepancies (Hinton, 2010). The brain processes data for 10^14 labels @ 10^9 per second, well beyond what computers presen

The History of Computing :: Free Essay Writer

The History of Computing The Computer - Man’s Greatest Achievment Computers are indeed approaching the status of the core operator of every electronic device or utility in the world today. Their â€Å"logic† and process can produce results millions of times faster than that of the human brain. They are at the helm of everything from an old walk man to the systems that keep the Earth’s continents in constant communications. They’ll likely soon be the basis of communications between other civilizations in outer space. When the computer was first introduced, it was simply a device of convenience for use of the masses or huge corporations and universities. The incredible machines have now grown so much since their introduction, that the World’s economy desperately depends on them to function. But computers have not always been so royal. The first machine to be classified as a computer used no circuitry of any kind, but was consistent entirely of gears and rods that made simple calculations in mathematics. As compute rs progressed in complexity and became more modern, society utilized them in nearly every way possible. They now are incorporated into every aspect of human life, especially for recreation and general home usage. It remains second in complexity only to that of the human brain. And yet it they still progress towards perfection. The idea of what is now modern computing originates (more or less) in the late 1700’s with the birth of computing’s conceptual father, Charles Babbage. He was born in London on December 26, 1791, the day after Christmas. He excelled in the area of mathematics (algebra for the most part), acting as his own instructor. He found himself to have been far in intellectual advance of his peers and â€Å"mentors†. Upon attending Trinity College, Cambridge in 1811, he still remained at incredible superiority to his tutors. After founding several societies (i.e. Analytical Society, Astronomical Society or Royal Astronomical Society), he became interested in mathematical calculation machines. This ultimately became his life interest. He pursued the invention of a machine that could compile mathematical tables. This gave way to the design of the â€Å"Difference Engine†. It performed somewhat complex mathematical tasks using gears and belts, not quite the hard ware integrated in todays machines. He eventually conceived the design of an â€Å"Analytical Engine† that would be able to make virtually any calculation (at least those considered in the time period) given the proper commands and instructions.

Systematic Approach Dealing with Disabilities

Dyslexia causes difficulties in learning to read, write and spell. Short-term memory, Math, concentration, personal organization and sequencing may also be affected.Dyslexia is a disorder which has various types and classifications. The more commonly description of this disorder is the individual having difficulty with a written language. Dyslexia is a general term for other disabilities that may hinder a person’s learning curve.Dysorthographia, is a mental disability that affects visual and auditory information process and includes spelling difficulties. Dysgraphia affects handwriting. Dyscalculia affects the process of using numbers and manipulating them. As dyslexia is a common term for various disabilities, it is needed to carefully assess the subject in order to pinpoint the specific disability that they have (Winstanley 2006).Dyslexia DiagnosisDyslexia will not be noticeable during the first three years of the child, but as soon as the child age and encounter numerous fa ctors things may start to appear internally and externally. As the child ages and goes into society and then finally meet others in the same age group, factors became much more complex which the child may or not cope very well. Difficulties would show as the child with dyslexia faces new challenges and scenarios amongst their peers.They may show a different personality at home, around the parents, but would clearly show within a school environment. Within the home, the child may feel at ease so the need to try and outdo others is not present, thus not displaying the symptoms of dyslexia to their parents.On the other hand, when the child is in school and among his classmates, he would try to go throughout of the day without any burst of enthusiasm for the learning ahead and shyness would overcome him as his fellow classmates would race through and show more of a developing knowledge than he has .The child would soon distinguish that there is something with him and that the others wou ld tease and make fun of him with his inability to excel in his studies. Further psychological test would be done in order to determine and check which type of dyslexia a child may have.Symptoms: Strong and Weak Points of DyslexiaOnce a child or a person has been diagnosed with dyslexia, often times there are strong points, or symptoms, that appear to every individual like as follows: visual sensory; practicality; skillful; sports oriented; and have vivid imaginations.Recalling and follow instructions; organization skills; concentration; and verification are the common symptoms and weak points of a child or person may have. Besides showing a slow learning level curve, a child or an individual may start showing the following behavior: laziness; bad behavior; being clumsy; and even have personal and family issues.Solutions.There are no known cures of dyslexia and no amount of medication can prevent it as well. However, children with dyslexia can be assisted to attain their full potent ial despite their disability to learning. Teachers and teaching aides are detrimental for the development of the learning curve and potential of children with this disability. It would be the teachers’ discretion on what approach to use so that the children can cope and excel with their studies inside the school room.Teachers can use and garner help from students to buddy-up with children diagnoses with this disability in order to help motivate them. Recreating the environment of the classroom is another effective way of helping the children with dyslexia. Avoiding the overuse of bright and flashy colors; seating arrangements for the children in order for them to clearly see the board and their teacher; and as well as minimizing the distraction factors for the children to create a conducive learning environment for those afflicted with dyslexia.

Culture And Society Essay Sample Essays

Culture And Society Essay Sample Essays Culture And Society Essay Sample Essay Culture And Society Essay Sample Essay Society and culture in sociology It is true that the way we perceive our environment make us different. It is in line with the inspiration one derives from the association with our environment. It is of the essence to note that environment is the surrounding whereby the nature of surrounding will shape a person and their perception of the world and pother things. The implication in this is that he association between a person and the environment will arouse positive or negative aspects about life. The nature of environment could be friendly or unfriendly influencing a person perception toward the parties there in or life in general. For instance, if a person grew up in an environment where the police used to harass people for no important reason then such a person will develop a negative attitude toward police. The environment in this case terms as aspects surrounding a person consciously or subconsciously. Moreover, the way a person perceives his or her environment will determine whether they appreciate it the way it is or they are not happy with it. There are people who are conscious and are willing to make the environment better. These are people who are willing and striving to make life better for themselves and for others. For instance, in he course of history there are people who have worked hard into influencing people to take care for environment. These people who have positive attitude towards environment tend to spread he message that people owe the future generations a proper environment. It is an environment characterized by all forms of trees, wildlife, water catchment area maintained., rivers, streams and other natural aspects. These people strive in making the world better buy ensuring that while people have current needs in such things as timber, hey should responsibly use them. such a [person is different because he or she perceives he environment ass under control of m an and hi responsibility to care for it for present and future generations. Also, people holding such perception are disappointed by the continued changing in climate as a result of green house emissions. on the other hand, there are those who hold the perception that it is the responsibility of the environment to provide. The implication under this perception is ha people should take from the environment without giving back. These are people who do not care whether their activities are causing harm to the environment or not. There are such people who own industries and direct the waste materials from their factories into the rivers or ocean. hr ar others who are only concerned with cutting trees and getting the benefits without thinking about planting more tree. The aspect of care to both people and environment is shaped by how a [person perceives the environment. It is for this reason that a person will strive making life for other better while others will strive in meeting their selfish needs. There are people who are capable and willing to compensate people who work for them well because environment has shaped their character that way while others do the opposite.

Strategic Analysis of Marks and Spencers Plc (MS) The WritePass Journal

Strategic Analysis of Marks and Spencers Plc (MS) Abstract: Strategic Analysis of Marks and Spencers Plc (MS) Abstract:Introduction:Strategic positionEnvironmental analysisStrengths:Weakness:Opportunities:Threats:Porter’s 5 forces model:Competitive rivalry (High):Bargaining power of buyers (High): Bargaining power of suppliers (Low):Threat of new entrants (Medium):Threat of substitutes (High): Cultural web:Evaluation of strategic directionTOWS MATRIX:Industry life cycle:Ansoff matrix:Conclusion: References:Related Abstract: This report critically analyses how the external and internal factors affect the strategies of MS and modifies its business strategies. Even though MS has good strategy and marketing plans they haven’t used it to their advantage. It also tells how the macro and micro environment affect their strategy and their plan. The report uses frame works like PESTEL, SWOT and porter 5 forces. It further investigates the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of MS. This report highlights on MS planning, organising, and taking decisions. It further incorporates the history, business operation, and the treats and opportunities faced by the company. It also provides an alternative solution and offers recommendation which might help the company to compete in the market, by providing appropriate service to its customer’s .The main aim of this report is to evaluate how MS can survive in this ever changing market Introduction: Marks and Spencer the Britain retailer (often referred to as Marks Sparks by locals) is a general retailer that sells clothes, gifts, home furnishings, and foods under the brand name St. Michael in the UK, Europe, the Americas and Far East. The company also operates in the financial services segment.  Ã‚   Marks Spencer was started in 1884 by Michael Marks in the Leeds market. The company strived for value and low prices and worked for its development. By 1901, the company acquired 35 outlets and had a new partner in Tom Spencer. The company’s stores started to carry the label (St. Michael) by 1949.   The company’s vision is to offer consumers great quality, value, and service. With nearly 300 stores in the United Kingdom, MS is the country’s largest retailer and holds 17% of UK clothing market. The goods they have are perceived be of excellent value and quality. It has been seen that the company adheres to top-down management approach and watched under the close supervision of its former CEO. This was going good with the company for several decades, But latter part of the 1990s there was a noticeable decline in the sales and in the overall performance of the company. Strategic position Marks and spencer is operating in a very competitive environment and there are many factors that affect the company in the outside environment. As they operate in many segments like food cloths and home and beauty products they have to deal with a lot of competitors. MS is very sensitive to technological, social and economic factors. It has to keep up with ever growing and changing trends of clothing if they have to compete in the market. The key drivers that affect MS are changing trends and online purchasing as they have no control over it. The core values of MS: quality, affordability and service were under the attack from its competitors. Other Retailers such as Top Shop, Next, Debenhams, Warehouse and the Gap provide the customers with better fashionable and trendier designs with good value. Food chains, such as Tesco, Waitrose, and Sainsbury have started to move into frozen foods and readymade food products. MS has challenge from all the business segments it is competing. But MS has not changed enough to be competitive; this resulted in MS losing its profits and market share (MS Press Releases 1999) Strategic clock:   Differentiation      Ã‚  Perceived value MS is trying to gain market share and for them to regain its market share and dominance they need to invest. Currently MS takes on the larger market share and is still suffering in its profits. This implies weakness in a rather cutthroat world of retail.  Giving access to quality food and clothes to all is their vision. They are committed to understanding and meeting the customer’s needs  consistently, in this ever competitive retail environment. MS has 90% of its revenues from the UK (Mintel,2009) , Increased food and fuel prices has an impact on the disposable income of the consumers   which leads to weaker demand for non-food products, MS is responding to this trend of   cutting prices this is having a serious effect on their   sales Environmental analysis Swot analysis: Strengths: Excellent and high quality products They have excellent relationship with its employees they are treated well and paid well It has stores all over high streets in London Profitable company and has a large market share in the retail sector It has a long term relationship with its suppliers It’s been here for more than 100 years so it has a good history of trade. Weakness: It is heavily reliant on British suppliers where as its competitors use foreign suppliers for low cost products. They have an old and classical fashion image, advertising is poor as they do not offer discount sales during festivals like Christmas and Easter, this Is the time when the customers buy a lot of goods. No customer focus Technology is poor as they cannot provide reading of their inventory No knowledge about the market for the younger generation. Poor customer service as they do not provide fitting rooms and loyalty cards. Opportunities: MS has to enter the e-business effectively as their competitors Expansion in growing product areas such as Food, Home and Beauty as they have customers trust for their quality and innovation The Home business, areas like home furnishings and gifts are fastest growing product areas and beauty products are growing rapidly. Both of these areas offer promising opportunities for the company to develop and expand Focus on cloths market segment by age group and introduce clothing line for kids and teenagers. Threats: Since MS operate in many segments like food clothing and others they have many competitors such as Tesco, Sainsbury, Zara, Gap and top shop. Customers are always looking new fashion cloths Internet allows the customers to shop from home online. MS has not done well in the foreign market after expanding abroad. Porter’s 5 forces model: Competitive rivalry (High): Marks and spencer faces high rivalry in the clothing sector from next and gap, they also face high competition in the food industry from Tesco and Sainsbury. Bargaining power of buyers (High): The threat from buyers is high as they have large number of retailers situated very close by. Bargaining power of suppliers (Low): The power of suppliers is low as there are concentrated purchasers. Threat of new entrants (Medium): Is very relatively low as there the other retailers are already established. Threat of substitutes (High): There has been increase in retailers who import their goods from foreign countries, so consumers can buy the same products for cheaper price. Cultural web: Evaluation of strategic direction The strategic direction of Marks and spencer can be evaluated by using the TOWS matrix, Ansoff matrix which helps us to understand how marks and spencer can possible convert their weaknesses to strengths and their threats to opportunities. The vision of Marks and Spencer is to give standard and high quality products to all. Marks  and Spencer give huge importance to a work place that  inspires and rewards the employee’s .The approach to Corporate Social tell us their commitment to Quality, Value, Service and Trust. It allows Marks and Spencer to manage  operations responsibly, this helps  them to attract shoppers to their stores and retain their customers, it also helps to have a good understanding with the suppliers and helps to give value to their stakeholders. TOWS MATRIX: TOWS Strengths Opportunities High quality products High end customers Stores all over high East accessibility to streets in the UK the customers Mature in high profitable Scope for improvement economy in marketing and Technology Weakness Opportunity Suppliers limited to New suppliers the UK Poor customer service Enhanced services not Keeping with the Must enter E-business competitors in a effective way Weakness Threat Reliant on British Higher production costs suppliers Poor marketing Intense competition Strategy Poor technology use New entrants into the market with better technology Strength Threat High street giant Higher cost, online sales by competitors Long term relationship new lower cost suppliers with suppliers Cost efficiency New market By looking at the TOWS matrix the strategic direction is suitable with capabilities MS has. Industry life cycle:       This is a tool used to look at the current phase of the company, according to industry cycle MS is in the maturity stage; after looking at the external environment the life cycle curve indicates that growth is slow due to a lot of competitors. However this calls for MS to change their strategy due to heavy competition, in the market. Ansoff matrix: We can use Ansoff product/market matrix to identify the strategic direction for Marks and Spencer’s. This matrix helps to understand the strategic option available to MS in terms of products and market coverage, by looking at their strategic capability. Market penetration can be done by product development as their clothing lack variety and if they can develop this they can be competitive. It can also be achieved by concentrating only on the UK market and consolidating it. Product development can be achieved by developing the per una brand as it is already an established brand.IT development to promote online shopping. Market development can be achieved by looking at new countries new customers and can also consider entering new segment like children’s wear and teenagers to be competitive. Marks and spencer can also diversify in food, beauty products and home appliance and get into partnership with other retailers.    Conclusion: Using the environmental audit (PESTEL and SWOT) and strategic analysis it can be seen that MS poses some strength within them and also a few weaknesses. They also have a few threats and areas of opportunities which explored can take MS to new Heights. MS drifted away from its core values and failed to notice that the competition was getting tougher and was not in line with the changing trend, this made them to lose a few customers. The mid-market segment which MS was operating was hit by recession and this made the consumers move to other retailers such as Primark, Tesco Sainsbury etc. which were providing the consumers for cheaper rates. MS should come up with a contingency plan to not only focus on differentiation, but also to encounter the growing rivalry from other supermarket chains. Acceptability: Looking at the current weaknesses like not following the market trend in the clothing line and no proper customer service that MS have it can’t sustain the challenge from other retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury, gap and Zara as do market research and follow the current trend that is in the UK. Feasibility: With the combination of its strengths the strategy MS is using can be feasible but need to turn its threats to opportunities. MS need to diversify and keep up with the challenge from the competitors, so that they can satisfy the shareholders Sustainability: For MS strategy to be sustainable and prosper in the long term their core competences has like value to customers, Rarity, inimitability has to be looked at. Because customers feel they are not getting value for their money as the competitor are offering goods for cheaper prices, Their products are not rare and can be imitated by other competitors. Recommendation: The current strategy MS is pursing is not very sound, so here are a few changes that MS has to look at that would help them to capture back the lost market share and customers. Come up with new quality products in areas of cloth food home and financial services and achieve customer satisfaction through quality service. Regain lost market share in clothing: Improve the Per Una brand as people like it.They have to be customer oriented and do a market research on the current trends in the UK. Start providing trial rooms so to attract customers. Use Zara’s concept of communicating with the manufactures abroad through media. Obtain customer opinion and feedback this helps not only in keeping up with the current trend in the clothing line but also helps to do research in the food and home appliances sector. Improve online shopping this not only helps in reducing costs but also helps in increasing sales and to be competitive and also an opportunity to advertise in the internet. Make the advertising big as MS is an old organization and the younger generations who are not aware of it would rather go to stores which are attractively advertised. Putting up hoardings in the streets and may be in the Tube stations would help attract customers not only in UK but also tourists. Improve the customer shopping experience: MS need to invest in its stores in areas like stock availability and better customer service which adds to the value to the customers and uniqueness quotient. Improve franchising in foreign: This helps to capture market share in other countries with less capital. References: http://corporate.marksandspencer.com/investors/corporate_governance/governance_framework (n.d) [15 June 2011] docshare.com/doc/103365/Exploring-Corporate-Strategy-in-Marks-and-Spe (n.d) [16 June 2011] examstutor.com/business/resources/companyprofiles/marksandspencer/strategyinsight.php   (n.d) [15 June 2011] marksandspencer.com/thecompany/ (n.d) [15 June 2011] google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://mamikikeyu.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/lifecycle.pngimgrefurl=http://mamikikeyu.wordpress.com/2011/04/h=322w=414sz=14tbnid=-r6cuuc94rtigM:tbnh=97tbnw=125prev=/search%3Fq%3Dindustry%2Blife%2Bcycle%2Bdiagram%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Duzoom=1q=industry+life+cycle+diagramhl=enusg=__LrlcgyCPZs3vCFQwZWOWw1dMPV4=sa=Xei=KVP7Ter7KsrJhAeE1emUAwsqi=2ved=0CCIQ9QEwAg   (n.d) [17 June 2011]    Appendix: PESTEL analysis POLITICAL  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ The EU and the Free Trade Agreements, this helps the other British Companies to take advantage of it by getting their goods from other countries for cheaper rates compared to MS higher cost structure. Issues of labour laws ECONOMIC   the Retail sector is very sensitive to changes in tax and interest rates. After the economic slump the retail industry is once again booming. The competitors import their goods from other countries  to cut cost but this puts MS in a disadvantage as they get the good from within the UK. SOCIAL  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ changing life style and trend of the consumers could be a threat to the company. However this also could be an Opportunity in terms of new market and consumers. TECHNICAL  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ Media plays an important role in communicating with the designers and manufactures in other countries about the changing trends of UK. Online shopping Is now getting more and more common. LEGAL –To provide high quality as promised, and legislations for health and safety both in terms of consumer rights and also in terms of production of own natural renewable resources for making clothes ENVIRONMENTAL  Ã¢â‚¬â€œRetailers use lot raw materials to produce their goods; they need to be aware of the natural habitats and the environmental effects. They also have to be aware of the legal effects for farm animals in health and safety

Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Research Paper Example The results obtained though the articles further revealed that nurses’ attitudes are among the most vital aspects which tend to influence the practice of physical restraint to elderly patients. Research Question or Hypothesis Although the research hypotheses were not mentioned within specific quotations, the research questions considered in the study were observed in a precise form as mentioned below. a. â€Å"Are nursing staff members' attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived moral obligation related to their intentions to use physical restraints with older people?† b. â€Å"How are nursing staff members' attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, perceived moral obligation, and intentions to use physical restraints related to selected demographic and professional variables?† Research Variables To be noted, in Werner & Mendelsson (2000), the research variables were selected on the basis of the theory of reasoned actions which can be divided as independent variables, dependent variables and extraneous variables as illustrated in the diagram illustrated below. Source: Werner & Mendelsson (2000) Independent Variable The independent variables that were considered in this research included attitudes deciphered by the nurses when practicing physical restraint on elder patients, the various subjective norms that were followed along with the perceived moral obligations which tend to have a direct impact on such practices influencing the intention of the professionals. Dependent Variables There was only one dependent variable identified in the study which included the intention of the nurses to practice physical restraint on elderly patients. Extraneous (Confounding) Variable(s) In this article, the extraneous variables consisted of various attributes such as socio-demographic factors that included age, education, sex, place of birth and marital status which are given at a fixed unit and thus, is impossible to be changed. Werner & Mendelsson (2000) also considered the number of years spent in a particular profession along with the position of the nursing professionals as significant extraneous variables in the study to impose a considerable effect on dependent variables, besides the identified independent variables. Research Design The research design of the study conducted by Werner & Mendelsson (2000) was based on the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA). Accordingly, a correlational design was applied in the process. It can be mentioned in this regard that as the intention of the study was to identify the factors influencing the nurses’ intention to practice physical restraint on old patients, this research design was appropriate to conclude if a correlation existed amid the identified variables. Population and Sample Setting The data collection was performed in alliance with the natural setting in an Israeli elder care hospital with a capacity of 800 beds. Target and Accessible Population The populatio n considered in this study comprised nursing staff members from the hospital. The target population was thus quite realistically accessible within a given enclosed setting. Sample and Sampling Plan A sample of 303 nursing staff members was taken into concern to suffice the data requirements of the research. As can be observed from the research technique, a random sampling technique was used in the

Content Analysis on Prime Time Television Using Cultivation Theory Research Paper

Content Analysis on Prime Time Television Using Cultivation Theory - Research Paper Example Cultivation Theory was developed by George Gerbner and Larry Gross based on their research in order to identify and understand the effects of television on its viewers. They focused more on the culture of violence that is evidently and explicitly embedded in television programs and on how this message is inculcated in its audience, thus affecting their social behavior and disposition. Gerbner and Gross also correlated that as the exposure to such programs increases or becomes a constant factor on the daily lives of people, they tend to develop and adopt the same notion of thinking that, indeed, the world is full of violence. Cultivation theory remains to be one of the most popular theories in mass communication phenomena and is an essential theory in understanding behavioral (Bryant, 2004). n the Saturday program, FOX aired two episodes of Cops and an episode of Bones. The plot of these TV shows clearly depicts a violation of criminal law and grave offenses against society. The former is an action-packed documentary and reality show that revolves around what transpires in the line of duty of law enforcement agencies from various areas and departments of United States, while the latter is a fictional series about a team of forensic investigators who solve crime mysteries by analyzing, examining human remains, and determining the cost of death of the victims. While these shows can be easily concluded, and rightly so as to having themes of heavy violence, they also portray other messages as well.