Wedding Superstitions

Weddings have been celebrated since the beginning of time. So have wedding day superstitions. It is traditionally believed that weddings are susceptible to evil spirits and bad luck. Over time, wedding traditions and customs have been preserved to promote a happy, long, fertile and wealthy marriage. Here are some customs that the bride and groom might consider to ensure a successful marriage. The Engagement †¢So as not to endanger the marriage, the future bride may only propose marriage during a leap year. †¢It is a change for the worse if a future bride is to marry a man whose surname begins with the same letter as the future bride's first name. †¢In the past, it was believed that the vein on the forth finger of the left hand leads directly to the heart. An obvious finger of choice for the engagement and wedding rings. †¢The future bride must not remove the engagement ring prior to the wedding day. The Wedding Dress †¢To borrow a wedding gown brings good luck for the bride, but the lender is in for some bad luck. †¢Wedding superstitions suggest it is bad luck for the bride to make the wedding dress but the last few stitches should be completed by the bride moments before dressing. †¢It is an old tradition that the bride wears a veil. This wedding superstition helps to disguise the bride from any evil spirits. †¢A spider found in the wedding dress is particularly good luck. †¢The bride may also add a horse shoe to the wedding costume to promote good luck, with the open end up to keep the luck in. The Wedding Ceremony †¢English folklore insists that Saturday is the unluckiest day of the week to be married. The groom's birthday is the luckiest day to tie the knot. †¢For good luck, the groom must arrive at the wedding ceremony first. †¢To ensure this luck continues the bride must not be on time and should enter the ceremony with the right foot. †¢The timing of the wedding ceremony and the saying of the vows must be considered to ensure that the couple work together in the marriage. After the half hour and prior to the hour is considered lucky. †¢It is extremely unlucky if the wedding ring is dropped by the groom or the best man.

Dangers and Hazards of Nuclear Power

Dangers and hazards of nuclear power When the term Nuclear Power or Nuclear Energy gets used usually the first things that come to mind for most people are bombs, destruction, war, and deformed humans. Which in fact are four things that occur the least in the nuclear power field. Nuclear power is much more than just bombs and destruction, bombs barely even take up a percentage of the total amount of nuclear energy used in the world today. Most all of the nuclear energy used today comes in the form of production of electricity.Nuclear power plants are responsible for 16% of all of the world’s electricity production; which really may not sound like a lot, but when you think of the amount of electricity used in the world it really puts it into prospective how vital nuclear power is to us all. These days, nuclear technology is used in several applications. Some of these include: medicinal, power and of course military. Out of these, nuclear energy based power is getting popular.In any case, because of growth in applications, based on nuclear technology, there are several nuclear installations being found at industrial scale. In general, nuclear installations are highly sophisticated, and, have lots of control measures in place to prevent any major hazard. Still, it’s a fact, that inspite of all these sophistications etc. accidents could still occur. The problem with nuclear accidents is – though, less frequent (due to high degree of sophistication and control measures), but, once an accident occurs, the impact is severe.

Political Socialization Essay

Have you ever thought about why you have the political beliefs and values you do? Where did they come from? Are they simply your own ideas and experiences or have you been influenced by others in your thinking? This process by which individuals acquire their political beliefs and attitudes is called political socialization. In another words, Political socialization is a concept where the study of the developmental processes by which children and adolescents acquire political cognition, attitudes and behaviors. What people think and how they come to think it is of critical importance to the stability of the government. The beliefs and values of the people are the basis for a society’s political culture and that culture defines the parameters of political life and governments? action. There are many agents that influence in one degree or another individual’s political socialization. Factors such as: family, friends, teachers, media, religion, race, gender, age and geography all influence us in one way or another during our childhood years. By now you should know that most political opinions are formed during childhood and many political ideas are passed down from parents to their children through them expressing their beliefs. When I was growing up I formed many opinions and attitudes due to the fact my parents were feeling that way. Growing up during in early/mid 1990? s in Bosnia wasn? t easy. With a country in a full scale war people were looking for help. A country that just few years earlier hosted and showed the world a great Winter Olympic Games was in need of help, but no one answered. People started forming their own opinions and theories about the world that has turned their back on them, including my parents. There was very limited access of what was happening in the world available to the people. I can clearly remember trying to figure out what is happening on my own and listening to my parents and trying to form something out of it. I lived in Sarajevo, where it was impossible to get in or out the city for the first year or so. Even with the United Nations present in the city I always asked myself why don? t they end this? To this day, questions always reappear in my mind about the international polices and innerving in a war when so many people are dying. How many lives does it take before the world powers and the most honored world governments sit down and a peace treaty is signed? For me this experience made me establish my own opinions about government and political views. With my parents constantly debating about who started the war, why aren? t the Americans coming, where is the humanitarian aid and many other questions concerning government policies, made me favor what my parents were saying and agree with them. By 1995, most of the fighting has stopped and siege was over and school back in session. Now, more views were formed to enforce what I been hearing at home, but as well some made me look at things in a different as well. I started to develop my own thoughts that have been flooded with so much hate during my childhood. Schools played a really influential agent, after the family, due to the extended exposure to a variety of political beliefs. My friends and teachers, both respected sources of information in one way or another made me look at the world in a different way. I always to this date keep asking myself some of the same questions my parents debated about. I just can? t let it go. Why did so many people get shot, murdered, raped and killed in Srebrenica? In a U. N safe zone, but it still happened. School thought us the history and not to forget. With school back in session, so was the television, newspaper and other sources of mass media. Media took over and attempted to reshape what we all have experienced in the previews five years for the benefit of their own profit. Foreign investors came in and took advantage of others need at a very cheap cost. I remember, first commercial on the national television was about the new mall what was to replace the shelled down Olympic village and the new president was going to be at ceremony. New lottery game was advertised everywhere with faces of political party members. It like nothing has happening the year before. Another factors started to surface with me. Did a religion cause this terrible war? With so much talk about genocide and ethnic cleansing, religion was being though in school. At that time it was unbelievably hard to form your own opinions with so much information being fed to you by the mass media and government policies. Today, I look back to everything that has happened and how did I come to the thoughts and opinions I have about politics. Family was a primary influence in the development of my political orientation, mainly due to constant relationship between my parents and I. Schools became a source to enforce what I been hearing at home. Then Mass Media took over and tried to paint a picture of functions as a political information-giver to adolescents and young children. With placing political figures in everyday life and association with political parties, I can only imagine what their goal was. The earliest socialization I believed is the deepest one because i favored with what parents have been going along with. Their political party favor and mine today however now that I am old enough and been influenced by a different culture I am beginning to rethink many views on our world today.

Collapse of CTV Building Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Collapse of CTV Building - Assignment Example The governments of several countries are motivating the organizations to follow proper business policies in order to improve countries’ business environment. This study will focus on the collapse of CTV building during the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. The study will try to find out several other reasons behind the collapse of this building. Collapse of CTV Building Introduction CTV Building was the headquarters of several leading organizations including Canterbury Television. This building was established in the Christchurch Central City (Kunstler, 2005). The CTV building became one of the significant symbols of 2011 Christchurch earthquake. 115 people lost their lives due to the collapse of CTV building during the earthquake. A series of construction, council, decision making, and engineering related errors over the last 20 years caused the catastrophic collapse of the CTV building. Prime Minister John Key ordered to set up the Royal Commission in order to investigate this i ncident. According to several reports it can be stated that the collapse of CTV building was the biggest life-taking incident. The Royal Commission stated that the CTV building’s engineering design was deficient in several ways. This building was not developed according to the appropriate standards. Therefore, Christchurch City Council did not make a right decision by issuing a building permit for CTV building. During the construction of the office block, it was found that the construction had been inadequately supervised by the appointed construction manager (Wilson, 2012). This study will identify the stakeholders and key role players associated with CTV Building and its consequences. Moreover, this study will critically analyze and evaluate the key management and several organizational factors associated with the critical incident. Analysis of the Case Study The government of New Zealand is trying to find legal reasons behind the collapse of this building. First of all, th e government has stated in the report of the Royal Commission that the construction plan was not created according to the standard level. The Royal Commission has concluded that serious deficiencies in its construction and design are the major reasons behind the accident (Figure 1). CTV building did not meet the standard construction criteria. Moreover, the designing engineer constructed the building out of his depth (Stursberg, 2012). Moreover, as for the council staff that inspected this building after the incident of the earthquake, none of them were the engineers. The Construction and Building Minister said that the report of the commissions would be handed over to the professional engineers’ institute. The government wanted to find out the level of corruption and crime associated with the collapse of CTV building (Xu, 2012). Alan Reay Consultants Ltd. were in charge of CTV building construction. The commission blamed the groups for establishing a noncompliant and inadequ ate design (Figure 2). Moreover, the council stated that city officials were also responsible for the incident as they had not sent notice to the owner of the building. According to the report, the building got a green sticker after the earthquake of 2010. Signalling authorities gave it thumbs up for the individuals to use in future. Identify the Roles of Key Role Players and Stakeholders The owner and principle engineer did not follow the legal aspects. The principle engineer

Applying Organizational behavior when motivating employees Research Paper

Applying Organizational behavior when motivating employees - Research Paper Example In relation to the rapidly growing global business environment, marketers have been widely witnessed to implement a number of strategic measures in order to keep the workforce more optimistic with regard to their specific roles and responsibilities within the organisation. In this regard, Organisational Behaviour (OB) has long been observed to play an essential role for the entrepreneurs to develop strong workforce in accordance with the vision and postulated business goals (Tishman et al., 2012). Emphasising the notion of OB to play as an essential role in employee motivation, the primary objective of this report is to critically analyse the practice of OB by United Healthcare (UHC) while empowering performance and long-term relationship of the employees within the organisation. In this regard, the report intends to critically assess the key principles and practices of OB that are highly practiced by UHC to keep the employees satisfied within their respective job roles. In order to critically identify the importance of OB in employee motivation, the report would also ascertain key influencing factors that can enable UHC to successfully satisfy its employees along with their expected performance within the organisation. UnitedHealth Care (UHC) is considered as one of the largest and prominent health carriers across the United States. The organisation is a major part of the UnitedHealth Group Inc., one of the largest and diversified healthcare organisations in the global managed health care industry. Founded in the year 1977, UHC tends to involve a wide array of advanced healthcare systems and procedures to provide extensive services to the clients located in different regions across the globe (1UnitedHealth Group, 2013). With respect to the recent financial year, the group has been recognised to ascertain revenue earnings of US$ 111 billion in the financial year 2012,

Strategic Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Strategic Marketing - Essay Example The organization needs to collect more information related with the trends and practices undertaken within a new market so that it can be familiarize with the new market. (2) Export modes (agents): In this stage, the company finds a local strategic partner or local distributer that can provide efficient and substantial information about the new market. In this stage, a base for being international is prepared (Onkvisit, and Shaw, 15). (3) Establishment of a foreign sales subsidiary: This is the stage in which the company has achieved wider knowledge about the business conditions of the foreign country. With the help of this knowledge and information, the company opens its new sales subsidiary in the concerned destination, and starts a direct business unit within a new country. This is the most crucial stages of the process of internationalization which will allow the organization get firmly established within the foreign country. (4) Establishment of production or manufacturing unit: In this stage, the company establishes its production or manufacturing unit in a new country for the purpose minimizing costs of production. In this stage of the process, the company uses local resources, man power, and talent (Gimbert, 173). With the help of such primary stages, the company can become international and global. In order to be global, the company has to take some crucial decisions which cast a direct impact over the viability of different stages of internationalization. These main decisions are: Decision of going international In these decisions, the company decides whether to go in international market or stay in domestic market. Decision regarding selection of the target market The company has also needs to select the destination in which, it wants to expand its business. Decision regarding selection of the mode of entry in target market The organization also has to made decision about the method with the help of which, it is planning to get entered into the new m arket. Decision of selecting the most appropriate marketing channel and communication tools in the new market The company also needs to take decision whether it should adopt the standard marketing mix or go for modified marketing mix as per the demand of the country. Decision for adapting the most suitable strategic position of the organization within the market The organization needs to have a particular trade position within the market in terms of having compliance with trade policies, other organizations and so on. These all the decisions affect internationalization process at different stages. These all the decisions are strategic by nature which has long term impact over sustainability of the organization. Every activity or process undertaken by the organization is directly influenced by such different types of business decisions. At different stages of internationalization, the organization requires performing a different set of tasks. The decisions undertaken by organization changes or modifies the way of working and accomplishing business operations effectively, which impact over the outcome of any practice directly (European International Business Academy, 25). In this way, decisions undertaken by the organization are directly aligned with successful completion of different stages of internationalization. Answer 2: Marketing channel Marketing channel can be considered as a process and step wise approach undertaken by producer and

Was Hitler a Weak Dictator between 1934-1939 Essay

Was Hitler a Weak Dictator between 1934-1939 - Essay Example If there was a weakness to be found in Hitler's dictatorship then it would have had to be his own greed and desire to conquer the entire world, which was an impossible feat, yet Hitler failed to see the reality of his circumstances. However, with regard to his iron rule over his people and the control he had over other countries, he was by no means weak but rather he was an extremely powerful and suffocating force, making all the necessary decisions concerning his homeland. The conclusion will show that the reign of Hitler still haunts the memories of many due to the delirious atrocities he placed upon thousands, which inevitably brings the validity needed to prove he was cruel and vindictive but never could he be classified as weak. Hitler's role was much too central in Germany for him to have ever been considered a weak dictator. Furthermore, in order to validate the point being made that Hitler was indeed not weak during these years it can be pointed out that he had a hefty amount of control over all areas of socialization and political governance during this time. This was through his tyranny on the people themselves and his say so in how the educational system worked, his persecution of the minorities in the country, the development of propaganda and censorship, and his overall pull in the maturing belief of Nazism (Jackson & Spielvogel 1996, pg. 12). Hitler pretty much controlled every activity that people participated in on a daily basis, from leisure activities to their quality of life at work and home as well. This is basically why there have been statements made about him of how he ruled Germany through his threatening presence alone (Klaus & Fischer 1997, pg. 110). Just for an example, Hitler had more control over the people than what has ever actually been realized. He forced German citizens and his military to pledge an oath to his allegiance and those who did not were dismissed and later executed. In fact, during these very year's history has shown that Hitler was at the rise of his popularity within Germany and in other regions of which he had conquered so there is no logical way to assume he was in any way weak at all but rather, as was stated previously, a very serious extremist and unrelenting dictator (Jackel 1972, pg. 55). The Rule of Hitler The question of if Hitler was able to be a strong dictator lays in the arguments of functional and intentionalists. A functional argument is the belief that Hitler didn't have a plan but used what was in front of him to his advantage, and an Intentional view is that Hitler had a plan and stuck by his plan therefore leading us to the question, 'was Hitler strong enough to have a plan and succeed it' Hitler knew how to abuse the chaotic government and he knew how to use the circumstances (Mitchell 1990, pg. 89). He knew exactly what the people wanted and what the military wanted. All of these aspects could have made Hitler strong. From the end of the 1st world war the military wanted rearmament and the people wanted revenge. These two circumstances assisted Hitler in having his voice heard more clearly and defined him as being a very strong leader throughout the years that he was gaining his control of the country. The weak government and the

Why Are Ethics Important in the Field of Accounting Research Paper

Why Are Ethics Important in the Field of Accounting - Research Paper Example Ethics have a very serious bond with legality as sometimes mortality differs as it lacks certainty. If fulfilling and implementing a legal thing might turn to be unethical in behavior, as each individual perceives morality differently (Souster, 2011). The right and the wrong is determine by the proximity of application of laws and moral values of the society and thus it becomes important to not only enforce ethics in professional capacity but also to safeguard the sanctity of the independence of the professions like medicine, law, military and even accountancy. The unethical behavior and lack of confidentiality in accounting profession and services will terminate the independence and integrity of the accountants, organizations and even the public at large. The ethical dilemmas especially the grey areas which need to be assessed by the accountants for the organization as well as the services they provide through firms which enables them to not jeopardize their professional values over the familiarity with the client or not doing their job with professional due care (AICPA, 1998). Ethical Approaches and Behavior The ethical approaches are notable by Absolutism or dogmatism, which highlights the importance of believing in universally accepted codes of conducts. The right is certain and accepted in every corner of hemisphere e.g. to murder a person is wrong and to tell the truth is always right which leads to the ethical behavior of deontological approach. Another ethical approach divulges Relativism or pragmatism that argues over the circumstances or consequences that if to murder is justice and to tell a lie for a notable cause than it is ethically right (Souster, 2011). Ethical code of conduct is label by proximity of duties and responsibilities of the professional accountants in the organizations. The ethical behavior is express in relative consequential approach that is term as teleological, derived from a Greek word ‘telos,’ which means ‘th e end’. The action is right if the resultant of those actions is acceptable depending upon the ethical stances. The ethical stance of Utilitarian depicts that the action is deem right if it benefit the majority in large. This might rapture the considerations of the minorities’ ethical morals but here pluralists views to account for actions that benefits both the majority and minority. Lastly, egoistic stances favor only the action that is right for them being a selfish approach to ethical morals. The ethical approaches by consequential and role based leads to different ethical norms and decision by the organization. The personal capacity and the professional life has a strong connection in consequential approach and is deemed to be right or wrong if one goes wrong or right (Souster, 2011). Code of Ethics in Professional Accountancy Ethical standards and codes of conduct are mandatory in practicing accountancy as this profession has a wide range of services from statuto ry audit, taxation, financial services etc that needs specialized skills and knowledge to encounter the international standards of accounting and finance. The ethical code of conduct are define by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and other professional bodies such as ACCA, CA on Integrity, Objectivity, Confidentiality, Professional behavior and Professional competence and due care. Integrity is steadfast and transparency is voluntary for accountants in their business and professional relationship. Objectivity and biasness should not arise due to any familiarity or personal issues conflicting with the professional judgment. If the accountant is being over familiar

Discussion questions - International marketing Essay

Discussion questions - International marketing - Essay Example Factor analysis can be suitably used in a situation when the data to be analyzed is quiet large (Lehmann, Gupta & Steckel, 1997). Cluster analysis fits for analyzing inherently grouped data (Lehmann, Gupta & Steckel, 1997) and helpful in dealing raw data into clusters. This type of analysis helps determine similarities and variations between local and regional markets. Another type of analysis is Multidimensional scaling. It uses statistical technique in for graphic or 3D visualizing information and data. It also allows sifting of similar and dissimilar patterns in a data (Grover & Vriens, 2006). This technique is utilized when a marketer is required to select between varied alternatives. Conjoint analysis on the other hand, helps the international market researchers understand how consumers’ value varied attributes or features associated with a product or a service (Grover & Vriens, 2006). This helps marketers come out with combined optimized information technology (IT) attri butes preferred or acceptable by customers (Lehmann, Gupta & Steckel, 1997). Comparative Analysis help marketer solve problems associated with two markets, products, services or processes that are almost same or comparable to a great extent (Lehmann, Gupta & Steckel, 1997). ... e methods (regression, correlation, cross tabulations), and multivariate methods (including multiple regression, cluster analysis, multiple factor indices and multidimensional scaling) (Moyer, 1968). Other marketers also use analytical techniques of industrial growth pattern; income elasticity measurements; regional lead-lag analysis; and analogy (Moyer, 1968). Industrial growth patterns help gather information relating to market demands using statistical computation which can be sourced from in-country sources. Income elasticity measurement, on the other hand, describes the relations between demand for goods and changes in income (Moyer, 1968). To cite an example, the demand for basic agricultural products decline if income rises. Regional lead-lag analysis on the other hand predicts the pattern of demand in a considered country is similar to leading country. For instance, if Philippines will have new method of drying abaca; it is likely the other abacca producing neighboring countr ies will follow this system(Moyer, 1968). Analogy, a process of analyzing information, could also be used in estimating market demand. This can be done either by cross sectional comparison or by time series analysis(Moyer, 1968). Cross sectional analysis assumes that a factor which correlates with demand in country A could be translated to country B. Time analysis use time dimension to estimate the international life cycle (Moyer, 1968).. While analysis is relevant, it has also its inherent limitations. 2- What is meant by the phrase global strategic partnership? In what ways does this form of market entry strategy differ from more traditional forms such as joint ventures?   Global Strategic Partnership (GSP) refers to broad-based cooperation and linkages between varied companies aimed at

Knight Guys Finish Last Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Knight Guys Finish Last - Essay Example The fourth wall consisted of thick, iron bars. Beyond was a hallway leading to a dark staircase. This contained the weak light source; a torch in an iron sconce, high on the wall. People panic due to shock and Tess began to feel a little hysterical herself, as she paced the cell, trying to make sense of the situation. She turned to find Daniel, opening his arms to console her, and she lost control. It was hours until they were discovered by a man wearing a chain tunic, old dented armour, and a rusty short-sword at his waist and he hurried up the stairs upon spotting them, returning soon after with another man, who possessed the haughty mannerisms of the high-born. "I am Count William the Third," he paused as if expecting applause. Receiving none, he continued, "Deegan here was most distressed to find a group of persons, occupying a cell in my dungeon which was empty. Obviously, the mystery is how they came to be here. Deegan believes that you are a group of sorcerers, though I must disagree. Why would a sorcerer transport himself into a dungeon I think you must have displeased a sorcerer, who transported you into my dungeon, expecting me to dispense justice, which I will do unless one of you can defeat my champion in the tourney on the morrow." And with that, he walked away. The next morning found Tess and her friends clamped in chains and escorted to a large ... Receiving none, he continued, "Deegan here was most distressed to find a group of persons, occupying a cell in my dungeon which was empty. Obviously, the mystery is how they came to be here. Deegan believes that you are a group of sorcerers, though I must disagree. Why would a sorcerer transport himself into a dungeon I think you must have displeased a sorcerer, who transported you into my dungeon, expecting me to dispense justice, which I will do unless one of you can defeat my champion in the tourney on the morrow." And with that, he walked away. The next morning found Tess and her friends clamped in chains and escorted to a large stadium. After the jousting, sword fighting, and jesters, Count William stood up from amongst his many attendants. He called for one of the prisoners to face his champion in a battle of blades. "I volunteer," said Daniel. The guards went forward and after unchaining Daniel, he led him past the group stopping in front of Tess. "I've never been brave enough to tell you this," he began softly, "but I suppose certain death makes heroes of us all. Ever since the first time I met you, I've been hopelessly in love with you." Then he continued on his way. Tess tried to call out to him, but the words caught in her throat as they led him into the centre of the stadium, handed him a sword and shield, and left him alone. The crowd roared as a dark figure stepped from the opposite entrance. Everything about him was menacing; the way he walked spoke of sinister grace. He approached Daniel as a lion stalking a doe. Wasting no time, the champion crouched and drove his blade towards Daniel's throat. It never found its destination as Daniel moved impossibly fast, spinning on the ball of his foot and heaving the other foot into the champion's ribs. With a

Dream Team - Media Analysis Essay Example for Free

Dream Team Media Analysis Essay George and Lennies dream is the most commonly mentioned in the novel, they want to live the American dream and have their own land and home. Although Crooks tells them he never seen a guy really do it their determination is beyond that of normal men. They crave the freedom from ordered working life and less responsibility. George desires the relief from the burden of supervising Lennie, on the ranch he constantly has to watch him to ensure he is no danger to himself or others. He talks of how he could live so easy without Lennie and it seems to be a private dream of his to marry and raise a family without the childish weight of Lennie upon him. He has cared for Lennie for a large part of his life and wants happiness for both of them without the strain of rules and the risk of characters such as Curley. Lennies only dream at first glance seems to be having his rabbits, however at a closer look the rabbits are his way of relating to their entire dream, he connects all other aspects of free life with them such as growing crops to feed them. He loves hearing the story of how its gonna be, his own dreams are based on what George tells him is good and bad. Candy is desperate to join in with Lennie and George and their dreams have become his. Since his dog died he has nothing left on the ranch to encourage dreams and he seems to have given up, the chance to be part of a reasonably realistic project motivates him again and he is willing to give everything to be part of it, Id make a will an leave everything to you guys case I kick off. All of Candys dreams seem to have be worn away by life on the ranch, the loss of his hand also seems to symbolise a large loss mentally for without his hand he cannot realistically dream of working his own land and living alone. For Candy life on the ranch seems to be a reminder of lost dreams rather than hopeful ones and this could explain his eagerness to be part of Lennie and Georges. He is also aware that he is old and becoming closer to the end of his job and possibly his life. Theyll can me purty soon. Jus as soon as I cant swamp out no bunk houses theyll put me on the county. He dreams of ending his life in happiness and not in poverty and discomfort surrounded by bad memories. Curleys wife is in many ways like Lennie and George, she tell her dream like its real and could happen at any time to escape the loneliness of the ranch. She tells as many people as she can about her dream as though she wants to make it more real for herself. Her conversation with Lennie reveals her desperation to make this dream come true, she hangs onto the man who could put her in pitchers, so sure he did write to her and someone else ruined her dream. It is these fantasies she uses to escape her life which is heavily restricted by her husband who wants to control her to comply with his own dreams, she wishes to be free to fulfil the life she desires. Her way of telling the story of her dream is almost sad as she clings to any glimpse of it so desperately it is clear how unhappy she is. All the dreams expressed by these characters are what drive them in the novel and can determine how they express their feelings and how they act. Niki Holdsworth Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE John Steinbeck section.

Customer Service Positions Essay Example for Free

Customer Service Positions Essay There are several types of customer service jobs out in the world that have certain requirements and back rounds that need to be met in order to qualify for a certain job. I found a job post on Monster.com for a customer service management position through the company Ecovacs Robotic Inc. located in Glendale, California. A customer service manager is to provide excellent customer service policy for the organization, develop a customer service policy for the organization, manage and hire a team of customer service staff, and handle face to face inquires. Ecovacs is a company that sales different variety of electronics. To qualify for this position, you have to either have a Bachelors Degree or equivalent experience plus five years customer service experience. It is also required to have exceptional interpersonal communication and negation skills. (Monster.com) The major requirements to work at Ecovacs are performing excellent management, training, and development skills. As a customer service manager you must lead your team to meet organizational objectives and achieve results to build up the company you’re working for. Being able to organize and plan multiple priorities to meet deadlines. Ecovacs wants you to have two years’ experience in the electronic and technology industry of sales. Majority of the customer service positions for different companies requires the same criteria as far as managing a team of staff, knowing how to communicate, and being able to set up plans and meeting your goals as a team and company. A median salary for a customer service manager in the state of California is $38,000 a year. California’s salary is eight percent higher than average customer service manager salaries and incomes nationwide. Nationwide it ranges between $32,000 and $34,000 a year. (Indeed.com) On Jobpath.com they had an opening position for a medical receptionist in Illinois. A medical receptionist works in the Healthcare Services according to Jobpath.com. A medical receptionist does not require college level education. The requirements to become a medical receptionist are to have one to three years’ experience as a receptionist in a medical practice. It’s  required that you have open availability which means you are able to work a flexible schedule with rotating weekends. You must have a reliable source of transportation because you’ll have to travel to two different locations weekly. You must have knowledge of ICD-9 and CPI’s and have excellent written and oral communications skills. A medical receptionist job is checking in patients, answering phone calls and taking messages. It is required that you know how to communicate with insurance companies in order for customers to receive prescription coverage and have valid insurance information. A medical receptionist must be able to constantly be on your feet, engaging in several tasks which require a lot of multi-tasking. The average salary for a medical receptionists ranges from $23,000 to $25,000 a year nationwide. (Indeed.com) Working at Safeway we are a company that promotes excellent customer service. I decided to research the job of a cashier position. I visited Safeway.com for more information about a cashiers position. I did not find the information I needed so I went to Shrm.org for a detailed description about a cashier. A cashier, according to Dictionary.com is an employee, as in a market or department store, who collects payments for customer purchases. A cashier is responsible for maintaining guest services as company standard, generate sales, operate sales, operate cash registers, and follow all company policies at all times. A cashier must have a high school diploma or the GED equivalent in order to qualify for the position. (Snagajob.com) The requirements to become a cashier are being able to work varied hours and days as business dictates. You must be able to read, count, and write all documentation accurately. You must be able to communicate with associates and guests and be willing to anticipate customer needs. You also are required to maintain awareness of all product knowledge information, weekly promotions, and offer samples to customers when asking about a certain product, if you’re able to sample it. I know this first hand working in the bakery at Safeway. A cashier must also know how to make labels and tags for promotional items and product that goes on in sale in general. Also you must complete all duties assigned by management and communicate when you’re done with those duties or duty. Depending on what state you reside, a cashier can make $6.99 to $14.00 an hour or more. (Snagajob.com) The last job I decided to do research on was the position of a daycare assistant. My mother and sister are in the process of opening a childcare center so I thought it would be good to do research on the responsibilities of a daycare assistant. A daycare assistant is an employee who assists the director or teacher of a daycare facility with enrollment, hiring and supervising faculty, facility management, maintaining superb customer relations, handling management reporting tasks, and working with children from newborns to twelve years of age. (Indeed.com) The responsibilities of a daycare assistant is to set up activities and clean up after children. They also have to supervise children and help with jobs such as feeding and diapering toddlers and infants. Assistance keeps track of toddlers and infants behavior and communicates progress of children to parents. In order to become a daycare assistant, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must be CPR and first aid certified just in case a staff member or child chokes on food or an object. You also must get a background check in which you have to have a fingerprint clearance, no criminal background like child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, prosecution, and molestation. Assistants who want to become daycare teachers or supervisors usually should have a minimum of an Associates degree in the field of Childhood of Early Learning. (Ehow.com) According to Indeed.com, the average salary for daycare assistants are $38,000 a year nationwide. There are all types of customer service jobs out there that require all different types of responsibilities and education. Working in the field of customer service, I have met most of the requirements from each job I researched online. I want to work in the field of communication and I know it is required that I have a Bacherlors degree and exceptional customer service skills and have knowledge about my job. References Daycare Assistant resources Davies, Faith. Day Care Assistant Job Description | EHow. EHow. Demand Media, 22 Dec. 2009. Web. 19 Jan. 2014. http://www.ehow.com/facts_5790737_day-care-assistant-job-description.html Job Not Found | Indeed.com. Indeed.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Jan. 2014. http://www.indeed.com/viewjob?cmp=Doodle-Bugs!-Children%27s-Centerst=Child+Carejk=c220f26e0c22377esjdu=PfqW7OX-Y30gm1KgHUU8l4rlETR0V6maUXSL9Dn0qzaLz8h-P_GYMqQakJ_0OjgHzv1wNooo0v2ri2iBDlHIvQ Cashier Resources About SHRM. Login. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Jan. 2014. http://www.shrm.org/TemplatesTools/Samples/JobDescriptions/Pages/CMS_001514.aspx Safeway Official Site. Safeway Official Site. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Jan. 2014. http://www.safeway.com/IFL/Grocery/Home Cashier Job Description. How to Become a Cashier. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Jan. 2014. http://www.snagajob.com/job-descriptions/cashier-2 Medical Receptionist Resources â€Å"Medical Receptionist Position Description.† Jobpath.com Illnois, N.p., Web. 19 Jan. 2014 https://www.jobpath.com/medicalreceptionist Customer Service Manager Resources Customer Service Manager: Job Description. | Prospects.ac.uk. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2014. http://www.prospects.ac.uk/customer_service_manager_job_description.htm Customer Service Manager. Job in Glendale 91203, California US. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2014. Ecovacs Robotics Inc. http://jobview.monster.com/customer-service-manager-job-glendale-ca-us-128460946.aspx Major Website Resources To Find Jobs Search Jobs for FREE with Monster. Search Jobs for FREE with Monster. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Jan. 2014. http://promotion.monster.com/keywordjobsearch-new/?WT.srch=1WT.mc_n=olm_tm_srch_ggl_gen_slk_clickid=52fa51bf-8f42-fe09-033a-00003cc42730k_trackingid=9716314gclid=CMHsgLWAjLwCFQPZQgod73MAFA

Lexical and Structural Ambiguity Examples

Lexical and Structural Ambiguity Examples Language is the most important thing in our life. People communicate with others by using language. Without language we cannot communicate with other people properly. Even deaf or dump people can communicate with others by using their special language or sign language. People talk, share their thought, feeling and emotion through language either spoken or written. In the world, there are many different languages in different countries. It is possible that there are many languages used in one country. Although have so many different languages, people use it for one reason, that is to communicate. They communicate with each other either spoken or written through sentences. Sometimes people do not get what we said to them. It is not because they do not hear it or something. However, occasionally we say a sentence which has more than one meaning. As a result, the listeners will have some different interpretations and this will make confusion for the listener. In this case, this misunderstanding is called an ambiguity. We can find ambiguous sentences everywhere, not only when people say something to us or spoken but we can also find it in written forms, like in the book, newspaper, magazine, and so on. This ambiguity can happen if there are more than one meaning which can be interpreted by the people who read or listen to the ambiguous sentences or phrases. There are three kinds of ambiguity according to Ullmann (as cited in Tambunan 202, 204); phonetic, grammatical or structural, and lexical ambiguity. Phonetic ambiguity appears in spoken only, e.g. when we say near, not all people will catch near as the meaning of close by or next to. Nevertheless, some people can misunderstand what they hear. They can possibly hear near as an ear or a near as well. Meanwhile, in his book, Pateda () said Grammatical or structural ambiguity appears because of the resemblance of phrase. Each word which forms a phrase actually should be clear, but the combination can be interpreted more than one meaning. For example in the sentence I met a number of old friends and acquaintances. The word old (past or someone who has been already old, in this case about age matter) in this sentence can be connected with friends (people who you know well but not in family members) and acquaintances which means people that you have met but do not know well. In that sentenc e, where is meant by the past, is it friends or acquaintances? In lexical ambiguity it has been explained that each word can contain more than one meaning. A word can lead to something different according to the usage. As the writer mentioned above, apparently ambiguous sentences or phrases can be shown in the written forms. Based on this research, the writer chooses the source of data from a newspaper, especially in the titles of each section which most likely contains ambiguous meaning. Because nowadays we find so many newspaper which contains ambiguous meaning in it, either in the content or the title. This is happening because in this modern era, language is changed. Trask (92) said that language has changed, and many of the old words have disappeared and been replaced by the new words. Other words have survived, but have changed either their forms or their meanings so much that we can barely recognize them. In this research the writer chooses a local Indonesian newspaper, that is Suara Merdeka. It is the largest Indonesian daily newspaper in Central Java, Indonesia which is made in Semarang, Central Java. There are some sections that are offered by this news, such as headline, business, advertisement, your letters, entertainment, and so on. In this paper, the writer will conduct a research in the news title of each section. Since the data is taken from newspaper, the writer will take some titles which most likely has ambiguous meaning in both lexically and structurally. FIELD OF THE STUDY This research is in the field of Linguistics. SCOPE OF THE STUDY In this paper the writer focuses on lexical and structural ambiguity in the title news of each section in Suara Merdeka newspaper. The data of this research are taken from all titles in each section of the newspaper which has ambiguous meaning. PROBLEM FORMULATION The research question can be formulated as follows: Which words, sentences or phrases are possibly ambiguous? What parts of speech are lexically ambiguous? Which type of ambiguity is the most dominant? OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The objectives of this paper are to answer the problem of this research which is mentioned above. They are: To find out words, sentence or phrases are possibly ambiguous. To analyze the part of speech of words that can be lexically ambiguous. To determine the most dominant type of ambiguity. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY The result of this study provides the readers to improve their ability in understanding the ambiguous sentence, phrase, or word in written language. This research will contribute as the reference for the study of semantics and syntax in teaching and learning activity. Moreover for the people who are interested in lexical and structural ambiguity for their research. DEFINITION OF TERMS Ambiguity Ambiguity appears when something has more than one possible meaning and may therefore cause confusion (Cambridge Advanced Learners Dictionary 43). Lexical Ambiguity According to Grenat and Taher in Al satil journal (10), lexical ambiguity refers to the type of ambiguity those results from the occurrence of homonyms. Structural Ambiguity A sentence is called structurally ambiguous if there is more than one complete structural description that may be assigned to it (Tesar, par. 1). LITERARY VIEW Semantic Theories As a branch of linguistics, semantics is defined as the study of the meaning. Yule (100) says that Semantics deals with the conventional meaning conveyed by the use of words, phrases and sentences of a language. In semantics it can be seen what is meant by meaning, the kinds of meaning, anything which is connected by meaning, the components of meaning, whether meaning is changed or not, why meaning can be changed, either each word has only one meaning or more, how we comprehend the meaning of a word or sentence easily, everything can be traced through semantics (Pateda 2). Meaning There are two ways in investigating meaning of words in a sentence; conceptual and associative meaning. Conceptual meaning is the basic components of meaning carry on literal use of words. For example, the word needle has the meaning of sharp, thin, an instrument for sewing. Associative meaning is like the connotation of words. For example, the word needle has the meaning of pain, illness, drug, thread, or knitting. In this association meaning, it is possible that each person may have different interpretations (Yule 100). An idea has to be sent clearly and meaningfully, so it will not cause misunderstanding in communication. Ambiguity can cause wrong perception in peoples mind when evaluating something (Suryaslavia 7). Ambiguity According to Clare (par 4), something is called ambiguous when it can be understood in two or more possible senses or ways. A word or sentence is ambiguous when it has more than one sense. A sentence is ambiguous if it has two (or more) paraphrases which are not themselves paraphrases of each other. For example, We saw her duck is a paraphrase of We saw her lower her head and of We saw the duck belonging to her. In this case, we consider that We saw her duck is ambiguous (Hurford and Heasley 121). Ambiguity can arise in a sentence for a number of reasons; through the ascription of multiple meanings to single words, through the assignment of different syntactic structures to a sentence, or through the use of certain expression that may have semantic scope (Cann 8). Lexical Ambiguity Lexical ambiguity according to Hurford and Heasley (128) is any ambiguity resulting from the ambiguity of a word. For example in the sentence The captain corrected the list is lexically ambiguous. The word list has two possible meanings, either record (short pieces of information, such as peoples name) or lean (in a ship). Lexical ambiguity can be created from because of polysemy and homophony (OGrady 270). Polysemy Polysemy occurs where a word has two or more related meanings. Example: Bright : shining, intelligent To glare : to shine intensely, to stare angrily A deposit : minerals in the earth, money in the bank Homophony Homophony exists where a single form has two or more entirely distinct meanings. For example, the word bat has the meaning either a flying mouse-like nocturnal mammal or a piece of equipment used in cricket or baseball. In this case, it is assumed that there are two or more separate words with the same pronunciation rather than a single word with different meanings. Structural Ambiguity Structural ambiguity appears because of the resemblance of phrase. Each word which forms a phrase actually should be clear, but the combination can be interpreted more than one meaning. For example in the sentence I met a number of old friends and acquaintances. The word old (past or someone who has been already old, in this case about age matter) in this sentence can be connected with friends (people who you know well but not in family members) and acquaintances which means people that you have met but do not know well. In that sentence, where is meant by the past, is it friends or acquaintances? Structural ambiguity happens if there is a sentence which is ambiguous because its words relate each other in different ways, even though none words are ambiguous (Hufford 129 130). Language of Newspapers In his book, The Language of Newspaper; Socio Historical Perspective, Conboy (1) says that the language of newspapers has always encapsulated what would they sell to the readers and how the information which they share could best be packaged and presented to achieve the commercial end at a certain time. The market-driven rationalization of the language of the new mass newspapers affected the grammar of the reduced sentences which were increasingly identifiable as journalistic. The twentieth-century newspapers language was shaped by a wave of technologies competing with the newspaper as the prime provider of topical information about the world. In newspapers today, we are witnessing the latest linguistic accommodation to changing social and commercial pressures. Newspapers have always striven to provide an elaborated form of conversation with their audiences, to be something more than a dry account of the events of the day (Conboy 2). Previous Study In Faculty of Letters, Unika Soegijapranata there have been thre theses discussing about Ambiguity. Marsha Marieanne (2011), The Analysis of Ambiguity in Printed Consumer Goods Indonesian Advertisements investigates the classification of the ambiguous taglines in printed Indonesian consumer goods advertisements. Doncy Suryaslavia (2005), Lexical and Structural Ambiguity on Television Advertisements focuses on a classification of Indonesian television advertisements which contain lexical or structural ambiguity. Arkhid Awful (2005), Peoples Interpretstion of the Advertisement Containing Ambiguous Sentences or Phrases talks about interpretation of people concerning the ambiguous sentences or phrases in the advertisement. The difference between those three theses from the writes study is that the writer focuses on the lexical and structural ambiguity found in news titles. The writer will conduct a research on each section of the newspaper and find any titles which most likely have ambiguous meaning. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Method of Data Collection The aim of this study is to analyze the lexical and structural ambiguity in the newpaper titles. The writer conducts a reasearch from Indonesian local newspaper, that is Suara Merdeka. She takes the data from each section of the newspaper which most likely contains ambiguous meaning and she will analyze it based on the lexical and structural ambiguity. Instrument 1.2 Procedure Method of Data Analysis Reading the selected data Identifying the words, phrases, and sentences which are possibly ambiguous. Classifying them into the types of ambiguity whether lexical or structural ambiguity.

brest cancer Essay -- essays research papers fc

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"One in every ten women in the United States will develop breast cancer sometime during her life†. (Breast Care). More than six percent of these cases are linked to hereditary. There are many measures that can be taken to detect breast cancer early in its stages. Women who believe they have a higher risk should have the breast cancer gene testing.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In order for a woman to consider her case of breast cancer to be hereditary, she must contain either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation in her genetic make up. Hundreds of mutations have been found in both genes and almost all of the mutations identified are primitive mutations found in only a single family. Most of the mutations result in a miss-formed protein product; thus the nature of these mutations is easily interpreted. Two successive acquired mutations occurring in a single cell are necessary for the development of cancer. Mutations anywhere along either gene are associated with an increased risk for breast cancer. (Transmed Network-Breast Cancer-Characteristics of Hereditary Breast Cancer, 1997). More than six hundred different mutations have been identified on the BRCA1 gene. (Gene Clinics, 2000). The number of mutations found on the BRCA1 gene is different than those found on the BRCA 2 gene. The prevalence of cancer predisposing BRCA1 mutations in the general population is estimated to be between one out of five hundred and one out of a thousand cases. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations indicate that elevated breast cancer risks begin in the late twenties and early thirties. Doctors normally recommend that women began yearly mammograms at the age of fifty. If the gene can be detected as early as the age of twenty, women should take advantage of the extra precaution and have the test done in addition to the mammograms to prevent late diagnosis of cancer. (Gene Clinics, 2000).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Virtually all individuals with a cancer predisposing mutation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 have inherited it from a parent. (Gene Clinics, 2000). The parent may or may not have had a cancer diagnosis depending upon the penetrance of the mutation, the gender of the parent, the age of the parent with mutation and other variables. It is appropriate to offer mutation analysis to both parents of an individual with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 cancer predisposing mutation. (Gene ... ...nbsp;  Ã‚  Genetic mutation testing has become another easy way for women to detect breast cancer early. A woman will never truly know if she will definitely develop breast cancer. Test such as genetic mutation testing will definitely help in early detection and prevention against spreading. Works Cited Gene Clinics. (March 4, 2000). BRCA1 and BRCA2 Hereditary Breast/Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved November 19, 2000 from the World Wide Web: Http://www.geneclinics.org/profiles/brca1/ National Action Plan on Breast Cancer. (September 5, 1996). State of the Science on Hereditary Breast Cancer and Genetic Testing. Retrieved November 19, 2000 from the World Wide Web: http://www.napbc.org/napbc/state.htm Transmed Network. (1997). Breast Cancer-Characteristics of Hereditary Breast Cancer. Retrieved November 19, 2000 from the World Wide Web: http://www.breastdiseases.com/genebr3.htm Transmed Network. (1997). Breast Cancer-Genetic Epidemiology. Retrieved November 19, 2000 from the World Wide Web: http://www.breastdiseases.com/genebr2.htm Transmed Network. (1997). Hereditary Breast Cancer. Retrieved November 19, 2000 from the World Wide Web: http://www.breastdiseases.com/genebr1.htm

Traditional Western and Disney Ideals as Seen in Mulan Essay example --

Traditional Western and Disney Ideals as Seen in Mulan Fairy tales have been a long tradition in almost all cultures, starting as oral traditions to and gradually evolving into written texts intended for future generations to enjoy. Today, a common medium for relaying these ancient stories is through animation. The Walt Disney Company is probably the most well known for its animated portrayals of many classic fairy tales. These fairy tales are considered, by fairy tale researcher Justyna Deszcz to be â€Å"cultural institutions, which exist within an institutional framework of production, distribution, and reception, as well as fulfilling specific social functions, such as the preservation of the cultural heritage of a given country.† The majority of these Disney fairy tales are derivatives of European stories. However, in 1998 Disney opened its first animated feature with an Asian theme in both the United States and Asia. Disney’s Mulan seems to stray from the traditional structure of a Disney fairytale, those which have a â€Å"relatively uncomplicated sequence of adventures, revolving around impeccably positive characters, who, depending on their gender, either conquer evil or passively wait to be rescued† (Deszcz). Disney’s Mulan was aimed to please both the Asian and modern American markets. However, the Walt Disney Company fails to completely step away from its established model in terms of portrayals of minorities, Western depictions of men being dominant in the fairy-tale world, and a woman’s ultimate role and happiness being conditional on men. Mulan continues to promote Disney’s idea of Western cultures as being ideal and its sexist views regarding women.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The story of the great Chinese female warrior, Hua Mulan, first appeared as a ballad titled â€Å"Ode to Mulan† in approximately 500 A. D. In the ballad, there is a young woman by the name of Mulan who is feeling dejected because she has just gone into town where she saw lists of men’s names who are being called to serve in the Chinese army. One man on the list is Mulan’s crippled father. Because she has no older brother who can take his place, Mulan, with the consent of her parents, then decides to go to the marketplace and buy a horse and saddle so that she may go to war. Mulan leaves and fights in the war against the Huns for twelve years. When she returns, her troop is honore... ...rsity of Southern California Lib., Los Angeles, CA. 22 April 2004 . Gleiberman, Owen. â€Å"Mulan.† Entertainment Weekly 17 July 1998: 63. He, Zhongshun. â€Å"What Does the American Mulan Look Like?.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999):23-24. Kuhn, Anthony. â€Å"China to Show 'Mulan,' Seeming to End Its Dispute With Disney.† The Los Angeles Times. 8 Feb. 1999: 14. Proquest. Electric Lib University of Southern California Lib., Los Angeles, CA. 22 April 2004 . Li, Fei. â€Å"Plan for Mulan’s Marketing Strategy.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999): 15-19. â€Å"Mulan’s China Woes.† Asiaweek. 2 April 1999. 26 April 2004. . Shao, Peng. â€Å"Analysis of Mulan’s Selling Points and Marketing Operations.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999):11-14. Song, Quanzhong. â€Å"Mulan’s Former Home Hitches a Ride with Disney.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999): 33-34. Zhang, Renjie. â€Å"Ode to Mulan.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999): 30-32. Zhang, Yang. â€Å"Thoughts Elicited by Illustration.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999): 26-27. Zhu, Yi. â€Å"Seeing Mulan in the United States.† Chinese Sociology & Anthropology 32.2 (1999): 20-22.

Violence in Television Essay -- essays research papers fc

When families sit down to watch television, they expect to watch family type of shows. Family type shows meaning rated PG or PG13, sitcoms and movies that do not include weapons, killing, foul language, and non-socially accepted actions. When children killing, they start to believe that it is accepted. Do children think that killing and hurting others and themselves have little meaning to the real life, children can become traumatized. Most killers or violators of the law blame their behavior on the media, and the way that television portrays violators. Longitudinal studies tracking viewing habits and behavior patterns of a single individual found that 8-year-old boys, who viewed the most violent programs growing up, were the most likely to engage in aggressive and delinquent behavior by age 18 and serious criminal behavior by age 30 (Eron, 1). Most types of violence that occur today links to what people see on television, act out in video games or cyberspace games, or hear in music . Media adds to the violence that exists today and in the past few decades. It will continue in the future if it is not recognized as a possible threat to our society. When kids go to a movie, watch television, play video games or even surf the web, they become part of what they see and hear. Soaking violence in their heads long enough becomes a part of the way they think, acts, and live. The line between pretend and reality gets blurred. Children spend more time learning about life through media than in any other manner. The average child spends approximately twenty-eight hours a week watching television, which is twice as much time as they spend in school (Dietz, 75). According to the American Psychological Association, the average American child views 8,000 murders and 100,000 other acts of violence before finishing elementary school. In addition the average American child will witness over 200,000 acts of violence on television including 16,000 murders before the age of 18 (DuRant, 445). Polls show that three-quarters of the public find television entertainment too violent. When asked to select measures that would reduce violent crime â€Å"a lot†, Americans chose restrictions on television violence more often than gun control. Media shows too much violence that is corrupting the minds children, future leaders of our society. In a study of population data for various countries sh... ... the Internet are all ways that a child can get ideas and bring them out to the real world causing violence. Bibliography: 1.Dr. Leonard Eron, University of Illinois at Chicago, Testimony before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, Subcommittee on Communications, June 12, 1995. 2.Dietz. WH and Gortmacher, SL (1985) Pediatrics, 75,807-812; and Tucker, L.A. (1986) â€Å"Adolescent†, 21, 7970806. 3.DuRant RH, Baranowski T, Johnson M,†. The relationship among television watching, physical activity, and body composition of young children†. Pediatrics. 1999;94:445-449. 4. Robert E. McAfee, M.D., Immediate Past President, American Medical Association, Testimony before House Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Finance, June 1994. 5. "An Unbiased Voice in the Word War," The Washington Post, November 8, 1995. 6. Anyamwu E, Harding GF, Jeavons PM, "Telephillic Syndrome" In Pattern and PhotoSensitivity Epilepsy: Report of Three Cases. East Afr Med J. 1995;72:402-405. 7. â€Å"Fighting Media Violence†. www.familyeducation.com 8. Interview, Jean Delaney, 54, Arlington Heights, IL. 9. â€Å"Marilyn Manson.† www.screenit!.com

America’s Love for Marijuana Essay

In this paper I will be analyzing the various aspects of American culture in terms of drug use and abuse particularly marijuana, such as legislation, the media’s relationship to drug use, drug use and advertising. I have chosen to discuss the time period spanning from 1950-2000. According to the research, marijuana is the most used drug in the U.S. besides tobacco. Marijuana gives people the feeling they like and want but when it is used too much they have to use more of it to get the high in which they desire. It affects your brain by making the THC disrupt the nerve cells in the part of the brain where memories are formed. This makes it harder for the user to recall events and makes it harder to learn. Marijuana is addictive to some people. About 100,000 people seek treatment for marijuana use each year. Marijuana is usually smoked as a cigarette (called a joint or a nail) or in a pipe or a bong. Teens are the reason that drugs are a problem in the U.S. about one in six 10th graders report that they are current marijuana users. Fewer than one in five high school seniors are current users. Some people who use this drug feel nothing but some feel relaxed and high. After smoking it users may get a sudden quenching for a drink and get very hungry. This is called the munchies. Short Term effects of marijuana include memory problems and learning problems, distorted perception, trouble when thinking and problem solving, loss of coordination, increased heart rate, anxiety, and panic attacks. THC can damage cell tissues in you immune system causing users to be more open to diseases. To be able to tell if someone is high they may be dizzy and have trouble walking, be silly and giggly for no reason, bloodshot eyes and have a hard time remembering things. These effects usually end in a few hours and the user gets very sleepy. According to a survey published in  2009 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), there were 16.7 million Americans (or 6.6%) who used Marijuana in the past month. 7. The speed at which Marijuana leaves your body depends on several factors including the speed of your metabolism, the potency of the THC, and the amount of Marijuana you smoke. Most commonly, traces of Marijuana can stay in your saliva for up to 3 days, urine for up to 30 days, and your hair for up to 90 days. There are over 200 slang terms for Marijuana in the popular vernacular. Some of more popular names include: Pot, herb, weed, grass, widow, boom, ganja, hash, Mary Jane, Cannabis, bubble gum, northern lights, fruity juice, gangster, skunk and chronic. Marijuana can impair driving motor skills. The drug significantly affects judgment and concentration. It also affects perception and slower eye adjustment to change in light. MAJOR EVENTS AND REFORMS REGARDING DRUG POLICIES 1950-2000 July 18, 1956 – Narcotics Control Act of 1956: The acts made a first time cannabis possession offense a minimum of two to ten years with a fine up to $20,000; however, in 1970, the United States Congress repealed mandatory penalties for cannabis offenses. 1961 – Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs: The principal objectives of the Convention are to limit the possession, use, trade in, distribution, import, export, manufacture and production of drugs exclusively to medical and scientific purposes and to address drug trafficking through international cooperation to deter and discourage drug traffickers. 1968 – Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs formed (BNDD): The BNDD was a predecessor agency of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It was formed as a subsidiary of the United States Department of Justice, combining the Bureau of Narcotics (from the United States Department of the Treasury) and Bureau of Drug Abuse Control (from the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare’s Food and Drug Administration) into one agency. By 1971 the BNDD was composed of 1,500 agents and had a budget of some $43 million (which was more than fourteen times the size of the budget of the former Bureau of Narcotics) 1970 – Controlled Substances Act: Law enacted that regulates the prescribing and dispensing of psychoactive drugs, including stimulants, depressants, and hallucinogens. The act lists five categories of restricted drugs, organized  by their medical acceptance, abuse potential, and ability to produce dependence. The law classified cannabis as having high potential for abuse, no medical use, and not safe to use under medical supervision. 1973 – Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is formed: The DEA is tasked with combating drug smuggling and use within the U.S. Not only is the DEA the lead agency for domestic enforcement of the drug policy of the United States (sharing concurrent jurisdiction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation), it also has sole responsibility for coordinating and pursuing U.S. drug investigations abroad. November 5, 1996 – California Proposition 215, also known as the Compassionate Use Act of 1996, was passed. Act in California legalized the medicinal use of marijuana. May 14, 2001 – United States v. Oakland Cannabis Buyers’ Coop: United States Supreme Court ruled that federal anti-drug laws do not permit an exception for medical cannabis and rejected the common-law medical necessity defense to crimes enacted under the Controlled Substances Act because Congress concluded cannabis has â€Å"no currently accepted medical use† when the act was passed in 1970. 2005 – Gonzales v. Raich (previously Ashcroft v. Raich), 545 U.S. 1: United States Supreme Court ruled that the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution allowed the federal government to ban the use of cannabis, including medical use. The court found the federal law valid, although the cannabis in question had been grown and consumed within a single state, and had never entered interstate commerce. Congress may ban the use of cannabis even where states approve its use for medicinal purposes. MARIJUANA AS MEDIA’S DARLING The Chicago City Council approved a measure on Wednesday that would allow police officers to ticket people found with small amounts of marijuana instead of arresting them. Members voted 43 to 3 in favor of the ordinance, under which anyone possessing 15 grams of marijuana faces a fine of $250 to $500. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy support the measure, and a marked jump in Chicago’s homicide rate this year may have given the proposal more steam. Several aldermen said the new law would allow the police to spend more time on street patrols and less on processing people for the minor offense of possessing small amounts of marijuana. Alderman Danny Solis, who sponsored the measure, estimated the city would  receive $7 million a year in revenue. Commissioner Raymond Kelly of the New York Police Department issued a memorandum in September ordering officers to follow a 1977 state law that bars them from arresting people with small amounts of marijuana, unless the drug is publicly displayed. Yet a lawsuit filed in state court in late June charges that the police were still arresting people illegally in clear violation of both the law and the memo as recently as May. State data show that the number of marijuana arrests declined in the months after the directive was issued but began climbing again this spring. The Legislature passed the 1977 decriminalization law to allow prosecutors to focus on serious crime and to stop police from jailing young people for tiny amounts of marijuana. It made possession of 25 grams or less of marijuana a violation punishable by a $100 fine for the first offense. To discourage public smoking of the drug, lawmakers made public display a misdemeanor punishable by up to three months in jail and a $500 fine. The number of arrests in the city for minor possession declined after the law was passed but shot up from less than 1,000 in 1990 to 50,000 in 2011. And, of the nearly 12,000 16-to-19-year-olds arrested last year, almost 94 percent had no prior convictions and nearly half had never before been arrested. More than 80 percent of those arrested were black and Hispanic young people. EXPENSIVE DRUG WAR â€Å"LET’S LEGALIZE MARIJUANA† A few claims that by legalizing Marijuana mean we can treat the problem of drug abuse as a medical problem not a criminal one. It is estimated that the United States government spends $10 billion dollars a year in its attempts to keep Marijuana off the street, while the State of California has revenue of 14 billion annually for the production of its legalized medicinal Marijuana. If Marijuana is legalized The U.S. can tax the revenues and will have additional fund that can be used for awareness of the drugs affects and treatment. During the prohibition of alcohol during the 1920’s the Mafia could produce alcohol and had a considerable control over others who wanted it. The role that the Mafia played in the 1920’s has transformed into the corner drug dealers and drug cartel of the 1990’s. Legalization will result in a decrease in deaths and violence due to the unregulated black-market trade or Marijuana. 1 out of 6 people in jail are in for non-violent drug offens es. Prisons are overcrowded and it is very costly to keep people in  prison. Legalizing Marijuana would make room for more violent offenders. Marijuana is not more dangerous than alcohol Unlike Alcohol and prescription drugs; Marijuana is not lethal by overdosing. A study in 2009 by U.S. Department of Health and Human Studies published that 69.7 million Americans are current users of tobacco products, 15 million Americans abuse alcohol, and only 4.2 million Americans abuse Marijuana. Everyday 1,000 people die from smoking related illnesses, 550 die from alcohol related accidents and diseases, and less than 20 die of drug related causes. Legalization may not cause a spike in use as critics acclaim. American adolescents use Marijuana twice as much as their counter parts in Holland where Marijuana is legal. IMMEDIATE/PREGNENCY AND LONG TERM EFFECTS OF MARIJUANA Immediate Effects of Marijuana: The immediate effect of marijuana includes loss of restlessness, excitement, hallucinations, paranoia, psychotic episodes, impaired coordination, impaired motor ability, mood swing, and increased appetite impaired ability. Long Term Effects of Marijuana: It includes the loss of brain cells, lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, energy loss, slow confused thinking apathy and blood vessel blockage. Use by adolescents can disrupt emotional development, delay puberty, and can delay the monthly cycle in females. Marijuana may produce a mild physical dependence that causes minor withdrawal symptoms when discontinued, including nausea, insomnia, irritability, and anxiety. Physical effects of marijuana include diarrhea, cramps, weight loss or gain, impaired sex drive, and it is a gateway drug. Marijuana can be a gateway drug, which means it can lead to the use of many other harmful drugs–Children ages 12-17 are 85 times more likely to use cocaine Marijuana has also been linked with teen violence, suicide, crime, and unsafe sex-HIV transmission. Legalization of marijuana would not cut down on all crime; alcohol still causes family disputes, rape, robbery, reckless driving, and murder. Effects during Pregnancy: Research has shown that babies born to women who used marijuana during their pregnancies display altered responses to visual stimuli and increased tremulousness which may indicate problems with neurological development. Marijuana exposed children have also been found to have more behavioral problems and to perform tasks of visual perception, language comprehension, sustained attention, and memory poorly. In school, these  children are more likely to exhibit deficits in decision-making skills, memory, and the ability to remain attentive. Drugs are a major debate it the world we live in today. Drugs are gaining more and more attention. More and more people are using drugs than ever before and there is no decrease in the amount of drug users. One of the most commonly used drugs is marijuana. In today’s world marijuana is growing and is looking to be legalized in California for medical uses only but that will lead to many other problems in the near future. MEDICINAL USE OF MARIJUANA A big issue being raised in California is the legalization of marijuana for medical purposes only. The old laws would still be in effect. If you were found using it you would have to have your medical doctor’s prescription for it to get free from jail or a fine. Still, a cop could bust you for growing it and cuff you because they don’t know that your doctor prescribed it for you. This law is a state law and is called Proposition 215. This law has been turned down for the last two years. This year all the old laws that have been turned down have been put together to make a great law. This law actually passed November 5, 1996. Marijuana aids in the treatment of cancer, anorexia, chronic pain, spasticity, glaucoma, arthritis, migraine, or any other illness for which marijuana provides relief. The American Cancer society says NO to marijuana because it is not a substitute for appropriate anti-nausea drugs for cancer chemotherapy and vomiting. We see no reason to support the legalization of marijuana for medical use. Smoking marijuana is also not approved by the FDA for any illness. These corporations both say that they what a different drug to do the same thing but developing it will take an estimated 4 billion dollars. People what to know why some other drugs can be used like morphine but marijuana can’t. In conclusion, I strongly oppose the illegal use of marijuana and I believe that it’s wrong to smoke it or use it in any way, shape, or form. We only have one body and we should make the most of it and not mess it up by infesting our bodies with impurities that will affect us as we aged. To me doing any kind of drugs is criminal and a waste of time. I want to live my life without any worries of medical problems. Any kind of drug that is illegal is bad for your health but if recommended by a doctor does it make them any better.  Drugs will always be around in my opinion. The government can’t demolish drugs or marijuana but they can try to educate children while they are younger to tell them that drugs are bad and should not be taken. With the passing of this law marijuana will become legal in California. Other states can adopt this law if they would like. Education is the key to the end of drugs and the beginning of a new era. Just say NO. RESOURCES Lynskey, M. T. (2003). â€Å"Escalation of Drug Use in Early-Onset Cannabis Users vs Co-twin Controls†. JAMA: the Journal of the American Medical Association 289 (4): 427–33. DOI:10.1001/jama.289.4.427. Lay summary – National Institute on Drug Abuse (November 2003). Lynskey, Michael T.; Vink, Jacqueline M.; Boomsma, Dorret I. (2006). â€Å"Early Onset Cannabis Use and Progression to other Drug Use in a Sample of Dutch Twins†. Behavior Genetics 36 (2): 195–200. DOI:10.1007/s10519-005-9023-x. PMID 16402286. Degenhardt, Louisa; Coffey, Carolyn; Carlin, John B.; Moran, Paul; Patton, George C. (2007). â€Å"Who are the new amphetamine users? A 10-year prospective study of young Australians†. Addiction 102 (8): 1269–79. DOI:10.1111/j.1360-0443.2007.01906.x. PMID 17624977. ABC News Australia: Cannabis linked to use of amphetamines, 2007-07-18 Agrawal, Arpana; Neale, Michael C.; Prescott, Carol A.; Kendler, Kenneth S. (2004). â€Å"A twin stu dy of early cannabis use and subsequent use and abuse/dependence of other illicit drugs†. Psychological Medicine 34 (7): 1227–37. DOI:10.1017/S0033291704002545. PMID 15697049. Ellgren, Maria: Neurobiological effects of early life cannabis exposure in relation to the gateway hypothesis. Ellgren, Maria; Spano, Sabrina M; Hurd, Yasmin L (2006). NYPD Organized Crime Control Bureau database manual. (marijuana statistics and current use).

Cross Cultural Business Negotiations (United States and Japan) Essay

Abstract Understanding Cultures and acquiring skills necessary to make a cross cultural business negotiation a successful and pleasant experience for both parties involved requires much more than just the overview of the culture and it becomes hard because of the complexity of the culture to grab the entire core of a foreign culture without investing enough time and effort into it, however initial understanding of the concepts can be a good start. General perception is that American business men or managers at times feel out of their comfort zone when negotiating with their Japanese counterpart because of the behaviours demonstrated by Japanese which are, just like any other culture, are simply based on their assumptions , beliefs, norms and customs which are unfamiliar to other party. Understanding the cross cultural aspects are highly beneficial for either of the parties involved and can highly facilitate communication by decreasing the chance of any possible misunderstanding. Either Americans or Japanese both have tendency to bring their own cultural background with them while negotiating which of course affects the behaviours and ultimately the end result. American and Japanese cultures hardly have any similarities so clashes caused by cultural differences are inevitable for example what may be considered acceptable by the standards of one party might not be acceptable by the standards of other. This makes understanding the cultural issues and behaviours in depth more important especially for Americans if they plan to negotiate with Japanese because Japanese might not give any direct clue about where the negotiation is heading as Americans expect from other American managers during business negotiations. In this paper many cross cultural areas based on different models are discussed which helped us to identify the similarities and differences between these cultures, understanding of these similarities and differences can help managers to formulate right strategies to achieve maximum output from the negotiation process and make cross cultural interactions and negotiations a pleasant experience for both  parties involved. Cross Cultural Business Negotiations (United States and Japan) In today’s global world, businesses are continuously expanding all over the world. For the business world, there are no boundaries or borders. Companies are always moving to new places and finding new business opportunities, new business partners. And in this search, they are often expanding their business across countries. Although, companies are adopting an international approach and partnering with other companies across borders, in this process they have to cope with the cultural differences of different countries. Talking about American and Japanese business culture, there are huge differences between the two. If an American businessman decides to do with business with any Japanese company, he will have to plan and prepare for his meeting extensively. First, let’s talk about the differences in American and Japanese culture. GLOBE Study was able to establish nine cultural dimensions which allowed capturing the differences and similarities between different societies and cultures in the basic nature of it, which consists of behaviours and artefacts, different beliefs and values a particular society have, interpreting patterns and assumptions. It allowed GLOBE to create country clusters. Now According to GLOBE’s country clusters U.S.A is in Anglo cluster whereas Japan is in Confucian cluster and differences become greater as the distance between clusters increase. Anglo and Confucian cultures are almost on the opposite sides. This means they hardly share similarities in context of dimensions given by Hofstede. Power distance is first and recent trends suggest that Japan has just now started making its place near the world average in power distance for example victory of the democratic party of Japan in the elections of 2009 as they vowed to diminish the power of bureaucrats which makes it evident that they are becoming less tolerant of the power distance but still they have a long way to go. Americans on the other hand always had a low power distance as the Anglo cluster ranks high in participative approach but Confucian is at the bottom before Middle East. In Case of individualism Japan is at the collective end of the individualism/collectivism. Recent trend suggests that the relationships between employee and employer in Japan are becoming strained but collectivism is still more dominant. In context of this dimension  Americans have one of the highest scores in individualism. The hierarchal structures of American organizations are designed for convenience and to make superiors accessib le. Managers have high dependency on individual employees for their expertise. Next dimension is of Masculinity/Femininity and Japan has one of the most masculine society around the globe. According to Hofstede’s original sample Japan ranked highest among all the countries in this dimension. Like many other dimensions trend in this dimension has also started shifting in Japan for example the equal employment opportunity legislation which happened in mid 80’s helped removing many barriers for the women but still according to studies more than 60% of working women quite their jobs after their first child. High ranking of Japan in masculinity also indicates that the Japanese society is driven by competition and achievement. Low score on masculinity or being placed on or close to femininity end means that the dominant values in particular society are caring for others and being more concerned about quality of life. Americans ranked just slightly above the middle on masculinity which means that distance between these two cultures in context of this dimension is considerable. Next dimension is uncertainty avoidance. Talking about Japanese, generally they have tendency to avoid uncertainty but as in past years some manufacturers left Japan and this trend affected the tolerance for uncertainty in work environment. If trend continues it can significantly reduce the number of people who are loyal to the employer and can flourish the entrepreneurial trends which are commonly seen in United States as it will affect the number of job opportunities available domestically. Students after graduation will face immense competition and will probably have one shot at employment or they will be frozen out of the job market. United States is more risk taking society but currently it had also started to lean toward uncertainty avoidance because of some different trends, for example decline of the stock market and recent recession period of 2007-2009 plus the housing bubble bust. All these factors made people to seek for security and less risky investment opportunities. Another factor which might have effected is the treat they have from other emerging nations which are economically becoming more powerful and it can cause Americans to take more defensive stance and to look for more stable grounds rather than being risk taking society. One other dimension called pragmatism which deals with the  behavioural trend of people about having the explanation of the things. If we talk about normative societies most of the people require of have a strong desire to have an explanation but in pragmatic societies, people might not require explanation for everything because they consider it almost impossible that a person can fully understand the phenomena around them because of the complexity of life. Americans have tendency to check and analyse the information they receive for validity. This trend in culture makes us consider most of the Americans as non-pragmatic but t he fact that they are very practical should not be confused. Japanese culture is more of a high context culture. In Japanese business culture, they have more sense of belonging i.e. insider vs. outsider. They are more focused towards building long term relationships. Japanese are more relationship oriented rather than task oriented. They are more focused on communicated understanding rather than formal information. On the other hand, American culture is kind of a low context culture. It is more oriented towards rules and tasks. Tasks are given more importance than relationships. Relationships are usually short-term dependant on the tasks. Now as we have established the base and have the general understanding about the differences and similarities among both cultures we can move forward to the negotiation process between American and Japanese Managers. When an American manager plans on doing business and negotiating with a Japanese manager, the American manager of course has to be more prepared compared to the Japanese. Although both managers will have to be prepared for the meeting and negotiat ion on their behalves, still in case where American is approaching the Japanese, he will have to fully understand the culture and cultural differences, and then plan accordingly for meeting and negotiation. High context cultures are always harder to enter due to the fact that you cannot instantly create close relationships which are a trait of a high context culture. Americans need enough time to understand and gather information about the culture, and plan extensively before they are prepared enough for the meeting with such huge cultural differences. They will have to work continuously to build relationship that Japanese can trust and consider an insider. Although tasks are important to Japanese, still they are more focused on feelings rather than opinions and facts. As discussed before American culture promotes individualism while Japanese culture is more  towards collectivism. It is due to these and many other differences that the Japanese culture is looked at as a big obstacle in the way of doing business with Japanese companies or in Japan but once they have enough understanding and have enough preparation the simple differences and ways of Japanese culture are not that hard to start building relationship and earning the opportunity to become a part of Japanese business. For example, if an American manager wants to do business with a Japanese manager, and he is looking forward to a great start and getting a positive response, the first step in the meeting will be the greeting. Greeting is an important part of Japanese culture. Japanese people are always too polite. The bow is an integral part of Japanese greeting, to show gratitude. Although, westerners are not expected to bow, they are greeted with handshake combined with a slight bow from their Japanese counterpart. The next step is the exchange of business cards. In Japanese culture, followed by greetings, all the professionals present in the meeting are expected to exchange their business cards. It can be seen as a way of introducing yourself and your organization. An American manager should collect enough information and work on clarifying meanings of different aspects before getting into a meeting with any Japanese manager, as in Japanese culture, it is considered impolite to directly say somet hing or directly refuse. Disagreement is usually expressed nonverbally. Even if the Japanese are not interested to do business with you, they will not communicate it verbally or directly, in fact they will wait for you to lose interest. Even if talking about employees, in Japanese culture, non performers don’t get fired. They could be transferred to another department or any other organization but are not fired. So the American manager has to be prepared for understanding this type of situation where he could anticipate the response of his counterpart. When talking about meetings, American manager must understand that to Japanese, meetings usually mean the opportunity to exchange information. Decisions are not usually made in meetings. In Japanese culture, meeting could be attended by subordinates but no one is expected to give any response at that time. It might seem to the foreigner in this situation that no one is taking interest but he should not be disheartened. This is how Japanese usually do bu siness. They don’t discuss with outsiders. What American managers can do is they can take along an interpreter to help  better understand the Japanese counterpart and the meaning of their behaviour. Japanese people also take time to develop trust and a better relationship. So it is not expected to get on the spot response from them. Japanese managers want to develop good and long lasting relationships before moving ahead in the business. In Japanese business culture, the core pillar of the culture is the company. The company shapes the image of the person. So much importance is given to the company that even in their usual matters of life; decisions like marriage or renting out property are based on the company one works in. If someone wants to rent an apartment, the landlord will want to know in detail about the company that person works in. Even if that person changes the job, he will be obliged to let the landlord know. Then the landlord will take decision about continuing to let that person live there or not based on the reliability of the new company. Japanese people are socially ranked based on the company they work for. Japanese people are not expected to change jobs. The careers are developed within the company compared to careers developed within the market in American culture. In Japanese culture, people are expected to work for the same company throughout their life until they retire. This is helpful for both the company and the employee. Company saves the cost of new hiring and training while employees choose to be on a safe path and they have a sense of security in their careers. The same thing can be connected to business partners. Japanese managers will not move forward until they get to build a trustworthy relationship with an American manager. But once the relationship is developed, it will go a long way and the Japanese would like to keep on doing business as they look for consistency . This Japanese sense of loyalty could be very beneficial for the foreign company. Another part of Japanese culture is punctuality. So when planning for a meeting, the American manager should take note of being on time. They have exact specified start times and end times. Even deadlines are strictly followed. So being on time also shows your interest and helps develop some of the trust. Another aspect of Japanese business culture is that they don’t talk about money specifically. If money is discussed right away, it is taken as if the only concern is money here and that is all the reason negotiations are taking place. Japanese managers like to refer to money by expressions that are associated with it like payments, profits, wages, salaries etc and they only discuss it  what they consider to be the right moment for it. Still their major concern is always about building relationships. If any manager starts away by talking about money he will be considered greedy and ill mannered. One reason of not talking about money is that they consider counterparts to be outsiders unless they are able to develop enough trust. Also in cases where Japanese managers think that they are comparatively in weak position, they avoid using negative words while talking about their organizations. It is expected that the other company will not be interested to do business with them if they are in a weak position. So in such cases, they attract the interest of the other company by using words such as profits and success. Japanese managers try to develop interest in their company by taking confidence in their company and showing satisfaction in their performance. At first, Japanese managers like to gather as much detail as possible about their counterpart and about the organization they are representing. It is then followed by a careful decision of whether they are ready to do business with them or not. So American managers should not get in any hurry and should not be expecting on the spot response. The first step for the Japanese managers is to determine the value of whatever is being offered. Even the foreign manager should not jump to talking about money as this is considered as an ill manner when one talks about money before them making a decision whether or not they want the service or business partnership. So any manager should wait for them to start talking about money as for Japanese, money or price is the second step in any negotiation although for Americans, this is considered to be an important part of any negotiation. Before entering into negotiation, American manager should study or understand the importance of nonverbal communication in Japanese culture. As we know that Japanese managers or businessmen are not that much straightforward, so their response is often portrayed by non verbal expressions or their body language. Non verbal communication could include facial expressions, eye contact and other body language. But it could prove to be hard to detect as Japanese people are very subtle compared to Americans. Another strong part of Japanese culture during any business meeting is the exchange of gifts. Japanese always present their counterparts with gifts or exchange gifts as this is considered to be a demonstration of appreciation and courteous feelings. They consider it to be the part of  their manners to give or receive gifts by standing up and using two hands. If these manners are not followed, Japanese feel hurt and take it as no value was given to their gift. A gift also serves the purpose of showing that they want to have some kind of relationship built with each other. The intention of building a relationship is made clear. Exchange of gifts is considered to be a part of Japanese greetings. As for Americans, gift giving is usually associated with asking for any favour or getting a return out of it. But for Japanese it is a mere custom and a way to praise. Contrary to American business culture, a delay in making any decision is not considered to be someone’s inefficiency. They rather take it as a difference in decision making process. But once they take the responsibility of completing a job, one can easily put their faith on them even if it is out of reach of their capabilities and they have a way of coming out with exceptional results. Conclusion Compared to other business cultures in the world, the Japanese business culture is unique in its own way. And it may seem like an obstacle, but once one get to understand the basics of culture, it also provides security to their business by building life time relationships. Some of the traits of Japanese culture are their loyalty, consistency, collectivism, their way of giving respect. If American managers do their research before meeting Japanese managers for negotiations, and take care of little details while complimenting them in accordance with their culture, Japanese will be very pleased and any negotiation can be expected to result in favour of both the parties. Japanese are pleased by foreign managers who are acquainted with their customs and they will in return make the American managers feel more comfortable and relaxed. And at the same time it will be beneficial by enhancing the communication among both parties. In short, awareness of cross culture is the key to better comm unication between two so distant cultures. References: Brislin, R. (1970). Back-translation for cross cultural research. Journal of Cross Cultural Psychology, 1, 185–216. Arizona Republic, September 14, 1986, â€Å"Meishi: Card of status,† p. F-1 and F-8. Wall Street Journal, â€Å"Aunt Helen: Japan’s Answer to Dear Abby,† March 26, 1987, p. 36. Barnett, A. & Kincaid, D. (1983). A mathematical theory of cultural convergence. In William B. GudyKunst. ed., Intercultural Communication Theory: Current Perspectives. (pp. 171-179). Beverly Hills. CA: Sage. Economist. (2010). Into the unknown: A special report on Japan. Nov. 20, 1–16. Hofstede, G. (2001). 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