Factory Act Essay

In this Act, unless there is anything repugnant in the subject or context, ‘adolescent’ means a person who has completed sixteen years but has not completed eighteen years of age,’adult’ means a person who has completed eighteen years of age, ‘child’ means a person who has not completed sixteen years of age,’day’ means a period of twenty-four hours beginning at mid-night, ‘explosive substance’ includes any materials for making any explosive substance; ‘factory’ means any premises including the precincts thereof whereon ten or more workers are working or were working on any day of the preceding twelve months and in any part of which a manufacturing process is being carried on with or without the aid of power, but does not include a mine subject to the operation of the Mines Act. Power to apply the provisions of this Act to certain places. – (1) The Government may, by notification in the official Gazette, declare that all or any of the provisions of this Act shall apply to any place wherein a manufacturing process is being carried on or is ordinarily carried on whether with or without the use of power whenever five or more workers are working therein or have worked therein on any day of the twelve months immediately preceding. (2) A notification under sub-section (1) may be made in respect of any one such place or in respect of any class of such places or generally in respect of all such places. 3) Notwithstanding anything contained in clause (f) of Section 2, a place to which all or any of the provisions of this Act are, for the time being, applicable in pursuance of a declaration under sub-section (l), shall, to the extent to which such provisions are so made applicable but not otherwise, be deemed to be a factory. Section 4. Power to declare departm ents to be separate factories. The Government may, by order in writing, direct that the different departments or branches of a specified factory be treated as separate factories for all or any of the purposes of this Act. Section 5. Power to exempt. – The Government may, by notification in the official Gazette, exempt any factory or any class or description of factories from all or any of the provisions of this Act for such period as it may think fit in the public interest: Provided that no such exemption shall be made for a period exceeding six months at a time. Section 6. Notice to Inspector before commencement of work. – (1) The occupier shall, at least fifteen days before he begins to occupy or use any premises as a factory send to the Chief Inspector a written notice containing the name and situation of the factory,the name and address of the occupier, the address to which communications relating to the factory may be sent,the nature of the manufacturing process – (2) In respect of all factories which come within the scope of this Act for the first time, the occupier shall send a written notice to the Chief Inspector containing particulars specified in sub-section (1) within thirty days from the date of the commencement of this Act.. 3) Before a factory engaged in a manufacturing process, which is ordinarily carried on for less than one hundred and eighty working days in the year, resumes working, the occupier shall send a written notice to the Chief Inspector containing the particulars specified in sub-section (1) within thirty days before the date of the commencement of work. Whenever another person is appointed as Manager, the occupier shall send to the Chief Inspector a written notice of the change, within seven days from the date on which such person assumes charge. (5) During any period for which no person has been designated as Manager of the factory or during which the person so designated does not manage the factory, any person found acting as Manager or if no such person is found, the occupier himself shall be deemed to be the Manager of the factory for the purposes of this Act. Section 7. Seasonal Factory. – The Government may, by notification in the official Gazette, declare any factory in which manufacturing processes are ordinarily carried on for not more than one hundred and eighty working days in the year and cannot be carried on except during particular seasons or at times dependent on the irregular action of natural forces, to be a seasonal factory for the purposes of this Act. Section 8. Approval of plans and fees for licensing and registration. – (1) The Government may require that previous permission in writing be obtained in the prescribed manner from the Chief Inspector for the construction or extension of any factory or class or description of factories, require registration and licensing of factories or any class or description of factories and payment of fees for such registration and licensing or for the renewal of licences, in the prescribed manner. If, in accordance with the provisions of sub-section (1) an application for permission accompanied by the plans and specifications is sent to the Chief Inspector and no order is communicated to the applicant within two months from the date of its receipt by the Chief Inspector, the permission applied for in the said application shall be deemed to have been granted. (3) Where the Chief Inspector refuses to grant permission to the said construction or extension of a factory or to registration and licensing of a factory the applicant may, within sixty days of the date of such refusal, appeal to the Government.

More Than Just an Argument Essay

Argumentative essay assignments are useful learning tools for helping students to both understand key concepts and in helping students to think critically. † Module 3 Case Assignment Nassal R. Braimbridge Trident University If you have ever attended college at some point you have had to write an argumentative essay. It is used to convey your thoughts, insights, and point of view to an audience in an attempt to persuade them. Extensive research is required to provide the facts and evidence required to support your argument and diminish your opposition’s argument. Argumentative essay assignments are useful tools for helping students to both understand key concepts and in helping students to think critically. This is due to the fact that creating an argumentative essay requires a lot of thinking and analysis. When most people think of an argument, it is thought of as a being something negative but according to David H. Jonassen and Bosung Kim (2010) â€Å"Meaningful learning requires deep engagement with ideas. Deep Engagement is supported by the critical thinking skills of argumentation. ’ They also stated that â€Å"Learning to argue represents an important way of thinking that facilitates conceptual change and is essential for problem solving. † This is impart to the fact that you are using the art of persuasion, rhetoric to sell your point of view to the reader, which requires a substantial amount of facts and evidence to validate your claims and enhance the level of trust that the reader has for both you and your opinion. A well written argumentative essay will present a strong claim and can appeal to the most resistant audience. This is achieved with the application of logic, reasoning and strategic analysis. In depth research coupled with a little creativity and some confidence are also necessary. In doing this you develop critical thinking skills which is defined by Michael Scriven and Richard Paul (1987) as â€Å"the intellectually disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing, applying, analyzing, synthesizing, and/or evaluating information gathered from, or generated by, observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication, as a guide to belief and action. They also stated that â€Å"In its exemplary form, it is based on universal intellectual values that transcend subject matter divisions: clarity, accuracy, precision, consistency, relevance, sound evidence, good reasons, depth, breadth, and fairness. † One of the functions of higher education is to teach students how to think and a god way to do this is through argumentation. Debate as a teaching tool, has a place in pedagogical methods because it allows students to enhance critical thinking through investigating arguments, engaging in research, gathering information, performing analysis, assessing arguments, questioning assumptions, and demonstrating interpersonal skills. Initially, the researcher used debate in a Science, Technology, and Society course as a tool to introduce an experimental learning opportunity. The main objective of the course was to use a selection of modern topics in science and technology to increase communication and critical thinking. Debate was a natural fit for the course because the topic were tied to current events, and students were allowed to critically analyze a controversial topic while practicing other competencies like writing, presenting information and higher level thinking (Scott, S. 2009). Writing an argumentative essay also helps to improve conceptual understanding, as you have to put yourself in not only the shoes of your opponent but the shoes of your audience as well. This means anticipating any questions or concerns they might express and addressing them, it also gives you the opportunity to refute any arguments your opponent may have. In doing this you will be analyzing your supporting statements, determining the reason why someone would disagree with each point and what part of the issue concerns them the most. At the same time is also developing your solving skills as you trouble shoot problem before they occur and prepare for them. Argumentative essay assignments are useful learning useful learning tools. They foster the development of students’ critical thinking skills their conceptual understanding and problem solving abilities. It promotes creativity and confidence while improving students’ writing skills. A student’s rhetorical skills are also developed along with their presentation skills when they complete argumentative essay assignments. Work Cited Jonassen, D. , Kim, B. , (2010). Arguing to learn and learning to argue: design justifications and guidelines. Educational Technology Research ; Development. 58(4). 39-458. Scott, S. (2009). Perceptions of students’ learning critical thinking through debate in a technology classroom: A case study. Journal of Technology Studies. 34(1): 39-45. Michael Scriven, Richard Paul (1987). Critical Thinking as Defined by the National Council for Excellence in Critical Thinking. Retrieved from: http://www. criticalthinking. org/pages/defining-critical-thinking/766 Purdue Online Writing Lab (2011). Argumentative Essay. Retrieved from: http://owl. english. purdue. edu/owl/resource/685/05/

Religious Symbolism Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Religious Symbolism - Research Paper Example It has been known for a long time that religion plays a critical role in the existence of human beings mainly because of helping people to connect with others and with a higher being. Religion serves many human needs that are aimed at helping people in dealing with mortality. Specifically, it helps in answering most of the questions that are beyond the human understanding that include but not limited to the afterlife and the soul (Molloy 9-10). The questions that underlie the idea of death are beyond human understanding and religion comes in to answer most of these hard to proof questions. These answers help in comforting people. Such congregation brings the aspect of socializing which improves the human psychology. Religion is also responsible for ensuring that people have belonging and an identity. This is very important because people’s mental health also rely on identity. When people belong to a group, that group provides a specific form of fulfillment. In order to express themselves, human beings have a need that prompts them to create artistic forms. As such, religion stimulates art, dance, and music. In fact, religion has been behind an inspiration to create the most fascinating buildings or structures of art in the world today. This brings out the issue of symbolism in religion. A symbol is a representation of something as it pertains to a specific field. As for symbols in religion or religious symbols, these are representations of certain aspects of a specific religion. For instance, in religion such as Christianity, the cross is a symbol of belonging and faith in that specific religion.

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

Railroad - Essay Example By the early 1850's the Harlem Line had revenues of one million dollars a year and transported nearly three million passengers at a fare of two and a half cents per mile (Drury 54-57, 61). In 1853, the New York Central Railroad was organized to consolidate 10 railroads that paralleled the Erie Canal between Albany and Buffalo. Cornelius Vanderbilt won control of the New York Central in 1867 and combined it with his New York and Hudson railroads running from Manhattan to Albany. The railroad helped boost population and travel to this region. The freight trains carried mainly iron ore, animals, and dairy products. Dairy, lumber, mining, and circus businesses in Putnam County benefited from the new mode of transportation. Trains helped carry heavy material for these businesses including both raw and processed materials. The railroad also dispersed large quantities of material that could not be used locally. Initially, farmers were against the development of the railroad as the train tracks frequently ran through their property.

Jay's Sporting Goods research paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Jay's Sporting Goods research paper - Essay Example Jay’s Sporting Goods is compared with the competitors from every possible aspect. Thus after considering the marked differences in the marketing strategy of all three of them we finally reached the SOV that is Share of Voice. After going through some of the survey data available the market condition is judged in terms of demand for any particular product or liking towards any particular game. The study was also done to see whether any segment is untapped or not. SWOT analysis was done to understand the company’s position more properly. Based on the findings, recommendations are made. The company’s market objective is outlined and the marketing strategy is planned. The plan includes type of promotions required by the company, target segment of the company, how can they be reached, the medium that can be used to reach them. To understand the medium again the survey data were referred to understand the most popular mode of advertisement. SITUATION ANALYSIS Marketing strategy and objective The marketing objective of a company can be achieved only by planning the marketing strategies in a correct manner. To outline the marketing strategy for Jay’s Sporting Goods understanding of the 4P’s of Marketing that is Product, Price, Promotion and Place for Jay’s is very essential. ... Pricing Jay’s Sporting Goods has a wide variety of product from different brands whose prices also differ. Since they have tie ups with many brands so the prices range is huge. One can get any item at cheaper price as well as at high price too (Jay’s Sporting Goods). Place Jay’s Sporting Goods is an online and outdoor superstore with two locations in Michigan. It’s a 41 years old business who started their operations in 1971 with 78,000 square ft building in Clare and a 40,000 Square ft building in Gaylord. So customers can visit them not only in their superstores but also online through their websites (Jay’s Sporting Goods). Promotion The various promotional strategies have been adopted by the Company. They offer discounts of certain percentage on certain products. They have also organized some seminars inviting some renowned personalities who are into the world of adventures. They have several outdoor partners, which are mainly different shows tel ecasted in television and radios. The company Jay’s Sporting Goods also has a product named Gift card which provides you opportunity for not only online shopping but also shopping at their store (Jay’s Sporting Goods). Thus we have thrown a light on the existing marketing strategy from where we can plan our future marketing and promotional strategies which will lead to the growth of the company. SWOT analysis of the company Strength The company deals in a wide variety of products both for men and women. So the company is not gender biased which opens up a huge market for them. The company has gone for an online store where one can buy any item right from their home, at a single click on the mouse. "Give the customer what they need and give them the best service possible" is the philosophy of

Experience of being an overseas trained health professional working in Dissertation

Experience of being an overseas trained health professional working in mental health, Australia - Dissertation Example p.27 Chapter 7: Conclusion and Recommendation †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. p.28 References: †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. p.31 List of Figures: Figure 1: comparison of foreign-trained and foreign born doctors in OECD countries. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.page 13. Abstract Throughout much of the world, there is a shortage of nurses in both medical and psychiatric fields. These shortages will influence the prospects and experiences of medical and mental health professionals seeking to live and work abroad. A literature analysis of current projections on the subject is performed to determine the probable outcomes for nurses migrating to a new country, specifically Australia. A case study analysis using secondary data is obtained and analyzed to develop insights on the cultural differences nurses are likely to experience when attempting to establish themselves in Australia. Declaration: This work contains no material that has been accepted for the award of any o ther degree or diploma in any university or other tertiary institution and, to the best of my knowledge and belief, contains no material previously published or written by any other person, except where due reference has been made in the text. Abbreviations: ACMHN: Australian College for mental health nurses. OECD: Organization for economic cooperation and development. Chapter 1: Introduction Throughout much of the industrialized world, there have been repeated instances of concern over fluctuating shortages in qualified nurses. (Smith, 2008) The worst shortages tend to occur in low income countries, especially sub-Saharan Africa – the continent which, according to the World Health Organization has 36 out of 57 countries with chronic nursing shortages. There are fundamental issues of migration – people voting with their feet. This problem for Africa and certain third world countries represents an opportunity for industrialized countries to address their own nursing iss ues (Martin, 2007). Vigorous debate exists concerning the rights and responsibilities of healthcare personnel regarding migration, and what measures could be employed to address these shortages. (Aiken et al. 2004) There is an ebb and flow to the quantity of qualified nursing personnel based on patterns of career choice, and educational opportunity. One strategy by which hospitals and medical organizations can address this shortfall is through a fundamental mechanism of economic exchange: taking an attractive commodity in question from where it is abundant and relocating it to where it is needed. This is often the source of shortfalls in underdeveloped countries, but a shortage of qualified medical professionals is not limited to one society or continent. Certainly, it is to the advantage of British Commonwealth countries to attract talented nurses from abroad, and measures must be taken to encourage and support them to meet the country's own medical needs. There is no doubt that th e expertise of nursing personnel is an attractive commodity and extraordinary measures are worthwhile if the nursing shortages can be alleviated where they are most serious. There are numerous pitfalls and challenges for foreign nurses, language being among the foremost, (Konno, 2008) but not always for the most obvious reasons. While knowledge of the English language itself is relatively widespread around the globe, there can still be cultural idiosyncrasies that may lead to errors and confusion as a result of the precise language required for the medical profession. For example,

Reconceptualizing Cultural Identity and Its Role in Intercultural Article

Reconceptualizing Cultural Identity and Its Role in Intercultural Business Communication and The Business Case for Enterprise Mashups - Article Example According to the article, the cultural identity is an individual’s sense of self-derived formal or informal membership in groups that inculcate knowledge, beliefs, values, attitudes, traditions, and ways of life. The article argues that a broad conception of cultural identity should not in any way privilege nationality, but rather balance the components of vacation, class, geography, philosophy, language, and biological aspects. Since cultural identity changes over time and that evokes emotions negotiable through communication, the article proposes the model of cultural identity that highlights components directly related to business, including economic class and professional affiliation. While such a model proves rather viable in eliminating all forms problems related to poor communication in the business, the reality can prove otherwise. Regardless of the policies or measures put in place to divert attention from such issues defining people in organization, the reality is ra ther opposite. Increasingly, people look at things in a different perspective. For instance, accepting that a person ever committed a mistake is rather odd, especially in organizations that use teams in accomplishing tasks and allocation of duties.

Why might one argue that the use of labour is the main component of a Coursework

Why might one argue that the use of labour is the main component of a firm's profit strategy - Coursework Example Human capital advantage is the ability to get exceptional human talent into the firm. The human advantage is achieved through combination of processes such as innovation, learning and cooperation. It is important to develop employees and teams in order to create a firm that is able to learn within and out of industry cycles. The supporters of Resource based view argue that human labour are resources that offer above normal returns and not assets bought and traded. This is because physical assets are usually purchased and are available in the market, therefore, competing firms having the free discretion to acquire the assets and be at par (Bowman 2003). The resources that offer competitive advantage are the ones that are not easy to duplicate. Human resources have specialized skills or talents that are embedded in the routines of a particular firm. These resources are difficult to duplicate or export from one firm to another. Thus, most firms have used human labour as the strategy for improvement in their profits and competitive advantage. Barney and Porter illustrate how it is hard to duplicate human labour strategy by saying that even if one firm was to steal researchers from one company to theirs, they will not reap the maximum benefits from these scientists because the environment and business strategies differ. Labour as the Main Component of a Firm’s Profit Strategy In business organizations, both the undertakings and behaviours those of value to the firms’ routines, social structure, and cultures of the firm, and directing and using these resources in combination with other inputs, are all the activities done by employees in the firm. This means that firms profits comes from the activities of employees’ labour that transforms other inputs into goods and services. This leads the proponents of resource based view to conclude that resources that produce more profits are human resources than inert or physical resources. RBV also state tha t in order to get maximum output from the human resource, a strategy must be put forward to achieve this. They refer this as the creation of the resource. An example of this is a producer who uses a new invention before it is adopted by other firms, will sell more than his competitors and gets surplus profits. RBV argues that it is the manipulation or use of physical assets by the workers that are a source of profits. The assets as stated earlier, are available and each firm is free to acquire them. However, the main constraint is their price. They are not taken as a resource in resource based view because they are not unique. However, labour that is employed is unique and taken as the most crucial resource. If the prices of these assets necessary for production of commodities were to go down, then individuals or groups would take over scale production without requiring to be employed by the capitalists. An example is that if the prices of car parts were within the reach of the mass es, then capitalists would abandon this industry (Bowman, 2003). The reasoning behind this is that the financial power is what enables capitalists to purchase physical assets and employ talented and skilled workers to produce commodities for them at a profit. The assets are not unique but the unique factor that enables them to get profits is the use of human resource or labour. In addition to labour, RBV also categorises inert inputs such as special equipments as resources. However, these resources are just used in some stage of production and moreover they are also produced by human labour. RBV supporters argue that if the workers are used to create resources for the firm, then the current deployment of the resource is greater than the price originally

The body is a tool through which to construct the self Essay - 1

The body is a tool through which to construct the self - Essay Example The essay "The body is a tool through which to construct the self" discovers the Body in the context of Fashion. When it comes to analyzing the relationship between the society and a human being, little attention is paid to the role of body. It would not be an exaggeration to point out that humans are creatures that possess a dual nature: in spite of the fact that spiritual constituent of the identity is important, the material one is also essential for developing a correct understanding of a human being. That is why it would be particularly important to shed light on the issue that has largely been overlooked as the former constituent is regarded as an object of bigger interest than the latter. This paper will analyze the relationship between body and society, engaging evidence that is taken from academic literature and group the findings in the following categories: the temporal aspect; body as reflection of culture; body and fashion; the role of body on television; body as a platf orm for new gender. As it has already been noted, the relationship between body and society could be traced to the very emergence of the latter. That is why the analysis of it should start from a careful examination of views on body in the previous times. Thus, it is quite obvious that the categories that influenced the public opinion of the previous ages are quite different from the contemporary ones. So, by examining the cultural and ethical dominants of the past one might reconstruct the role of body in the society.

Ithacan University Management Research Proposal

Ithacan University Management - Research Proposal Example There are various graduates’ degrees available at Ithacan including degree in health and business. Outside the lecture room, Ithacan University provides various opportunities for employees to assist the wider society. Hibidash is the university's annual Humanity Habitat 5k race. Of huge significance is the university program that supp...orts malnourished children, and Friday Services is a program through which university staff can volunteer and support in the broader Ithacan region. Students and employees can also participate by joining many of the other students and staff organizations or by taking part in club sport or recreational activities of the institution. Ithacan University offers a high-rate education on a basis of first-name. With a close student faculty, ration of about 12:1 and emphasizes on active involvement and learning. Ithacan is the best place to prepare for a long-term success. Ithacan's Vibrant, residential university overlooks Fingers Lake and is home to over 9,000 undergraduates and more than 850 faculties. The estimated budget for the restructuring program is about 400 million dollars. The estimated amount of money will cater for the replacement of the items and facilities not automatically replaced during the last program, such as laptops docking stations, computer monitors, special keyboards, software not added to the primary network bundle and RAM upgrades. The said amount will meet the employee’s salary increment and their security needs. Even, though, there are different ways in which employees can be recognized and rewarded, as a HR director, I look to give monthly salary increments in realization and acknowledgment of individual performance for employees whose performance will be consistently appealing, and who will demonstrate the job specific skills, behaviors and knowledge to meet overall expectations of the institution. Salary adjustments will be made at the start of each year as well as contingent on funds avail ability, (Baldwin 45). Also, all faculties to be offered appointment for the following academic year will receive yearly evaluations for salary. Procedures and policies concerned with faculty evaluations will be available in the faculty Handbook. Compensation strategy

Where we were, Where we are, Where we going Essay Example for Free

Where we were, Where we are, Where we going Essay Introduction In the aftermath of major scandals and bailouts in the United States, the world`s and the public’s confidence in public corporations, has been shaken. With the publicized scandals of Enron and other corporations in the United States, the faith in public corporations fell as fast as the stock market. Investors had no confidence in corporations or in their boards. Measures needed to be taken to form regulations to provide stronger accountability, to prevent these types of scandals from happening and to rebuild the confidence of investors. Corporate governance of publicly traded companies was no longer an option, it became a must. The public and the media demanded laws to protect future investors and shareholders (Colley, Jr, Doyle, Logan, Stettinius, 2005). With most of the world’s financial markets in crisis and recession, the public has become much more aware of corporate executive compensation plans. Executive compensation has been an on-going issue for many years. There has been a great amount of controversy over how executives’ pay structure is designed and who judges, oversees and determines executives’ pay. As the scales get tipped on what executives are getting paid versus employee standard wages, the public is always on the watch for the next corporate scandal. Boards are always challenged by what executives’ pay should be based off of; this could be performance, industry standards or percentage of revenue. Boards need to determine the base salary, benefits or short term and long term options that will be offered (Colley, Jr, Doyle, Logan, Stettinius, 2005). This paper will look at the past trends of executive compensation that lacked disclosure and transparency, current trends that are being used today in pay in the United States and Canada and future trends that should be used when it comes to executive compensation and executive pay methods. This paper will also give some recommendations that Canada should adopt. Past Trends in Executive Compensation From the â€Å"original opening of the New York Stock exchange in 1792 executive compensation† (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011, p. 74) existed. In the early 1900’s stock options of stock awards, stock purchases, stock appreciation rights (cash bonuses) and freestanding dividend equivalents were formed (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011) and still exist today. During this time executive compensation was very private and did not have transparency or regulations. It was not until the market crashed in 1913 that the public was becoming more aware of executive inflated wages, and compensation for executives. In 1933 Securities Act legislation was passed that required disclosure of stock sales to the public. Then came the introduction of laws that limited â€Å"fringes† (perks) this made executive compensation more transparent and created more awareness for the public. But in 1983 Ronald Regan’s administration dropped regulations and this changed the level of transparency once again and this would eventually lead to indiscretions in executive pay. This caused an artificial rise in stock market values and increased misuse of stock options thus the elevation of executive’s salaries. The United States Government`s lower marginal tax to 33%, which changed the quality of management, because as long an executives increased shareholders wealth the salaries of executives had very little regulations (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011). In 2001 the Enron scandal, executives inflated their earnings and overvalued their stock prices when they knew the company was going under. Senior executives cashed their stock options profiting while investor and employees of Enron lost everything. The numerous corporate scandals such as Enron, Jack Welsh CEO of General Electric, TYCO, and WorldCom created distrust in public corporations and â€Å"cost investors billions† (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011, p. 78). In order to increase confidence in public firms, a change was needed in regulations and legislation. This led to the Sarbanes Oxley Act (SOX) of 2002. SOX focused on corporate governance issues within a firm and led to rules of practice for boards of directors. Although SOX does not have mandates for executive compensation it does address how the compensation committee should be independent and how they should govern themselves. This has become very critical legislation to aid in ethical practices in public corporation executive compensation (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011). Current Trends in Executive Compensation The main foundation of executive compensation has not changed, it is designed to attract, inspire, motivate and in the end retain the superior talent in the management world. In 2008 a government fund TARP was â€Å"created to purchase troubled assets from financial institutions† (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011, p. 79). TARP funds put restrictions on executive compensation by; restricting paying out bonuses, limiting the â€Å"Golden Parachutes†, denial of benefits and used clawbacks if executive compensation was based on misleading statements (Bruvik Whitney Gibson, 2011). In order to receive TARP funding, firms have to practice the US mandatory â€Å"Say on Pay† which was implemented in January 2011. The United Kingdom has also implemented the â€Å"Say on Pay† concept. The â€Å"Say on Pay† is a concept that â€Å"shareholders should be given a nonbinding vote on board of director’s recommendations on executive pay† (Mangen Magnan, 2012, p. 86). â€Å"Say on Pay† concept â€Å"increases shareholders activism within when it comes to the pay policies and practices† (Geddes, n.d, p. 22). Current trends for public corporations for executive pay is to use polices and committees that structure the compensation. This pay should be transparent and increase the long-term shareholder value. Stock option incentives should be restrictive, meaning they cannot be sold for a set amount of years or until after resignation. Corporations have still not restricted the pay of top executives and the total compensation is still quite elevated compared to that of the regular employee. A great number of firms feel that to retain good quality CEO’s some pay incentives have to be competitive. Corporations feel that â€Å"superior incentives for executives (and traders whose actions can substantially impact an organization) to manage firms in investors longer-term interest† (Romano Bhagat, 2009, p. 1). Corporations continue to struggle with the balance of reward based compensation that ensures future results and increases shareholders wealth in the short and long term (Colley, Jr, Doyle, Logan, Stettinius, 2005). Executive compensation packages will continue to need to be governed by compensation committees to hold the confidence of the public, shareholders and the market. How Canada Measures Up As discussed earlier the United States along with United Kingdom has adopted the mandatory practice of â€Å"Say on Pay† which has increased shareholder involvement in the pay structure of their executives. Canada has not implemented this practice to be mandatory, even though it is, recommended as the best practices for firms. The five big banks in Canada have adopted the â€Å"Say on Pay† methodology (Mangen Magnan, 2012). In January 2012 the Huffington Post stated that Canadian CEO`s are reluctant to discuss that executive compensation has got out of hand in Canada. The article discusses that executives` incomes have continued to increase even though the wages of average Canadians have remained stationary. The article interviewed Fraser Institute’s Niels Veldhuis and he stated â€Å"When you call for a policy that limits CEO pay what you are doing is you’re signaling that we’re going to have even more regulations on how businesses operate here in Canada, and unfortunately, that will cause businesses to relocate or locate elsewhere† (Mendleson, 2012). One could make the assumption that because Canada does not have the volume or the stability that the United States does in the their corporations, that Canada is not implementing stronger regulations because of fear of losing what they have already and want to attract more corporations to Canada. At this time Canada uses a principles-based approach to governance in which standards are set and corporations are encouraged to meet them. Compared to the United States that uses a rules-based approach that requires corporations to meet the practices and legislation (Milne, 2006). In Canada the Canadian Coalition for Good Governance (CCGG) was formed to promote to good governance practices and recently the CCGG released the 2013 executive compensation principles. Corporations need to hold to the following principles: 1. A significant component of executive compensation should be â€Å"at risk† and based on performance. 2. Performance should be based on key business metrics that are aligned with corporate strategy and the period during which risks are being assumed. 3. Executives should build equity in the company to align their interests with those of shareholders. 4. A company may choose to offer pensions, benefits and severance and change-of-control entitlements. When such perquisites are offered, the company should ensure that the benefit entitlements are not excessive. 5. Compensation structure should be simple and easily understood by management, the board and shareholders. 6. Boards and shareholders should actively engage with each other and consider each other’s perspective on executive compensation matters (Moncrieff, 2012). The principles above are the best practices for boards and corporations and are recognized to be the superior standards, but as of yet Canada does not rules or regulations to enforce these practices. The Canadian government at this point has no plan to put caps on executive compensation. At this point the Canada`s tax laws are not in line with the compensation governance and reform is needed (Geddes, n.d). Future Trends for Executive Compensation Corporations, shareholders and boards are faced with meeting higher standards when it comes to executive compensation. This will mean adopting the â€Å"Say on Pay† and this trend is what is needed. Compensation committees must remain independent, transparent and must continue to ensure their programs attract, retain and motivate executive talent. Committees must ensure they are paying for performance that ensures long term profitability and value for both executives and shareholders (Stikeman Elliott, 2009). Recommendations for Canada Canada needs to focus on moving towards rules and regulations and not principles and guidelines. Canada will need to reform their standards to be more unified with the rest of the world`s expectations. If Canada wants to attract more corporations to develop in Canada then they need to be the benchmark of standards and practices and set even higher rules and regulations to maintain level, of integrity. Executive compensation could become out of hand and it cannot just be the banks that maintain the higher standards. Canada needs to adopt the â€Å"Say on Pay† and make it mandatory and also move to regulations that are superior to SOX and align the tax laws to levels that keep up with executive compensation packages. Canada needs to embrace being the ethical governance leaders. Conclusion There will always be unethical practices in executive compensation packages and it is not likely to decrease as long as there is competition and the need to retain talented CEO`s, but Canadian businesses can set higher benchmark when it comes to corporate governance, executive compensation and our regulations and practices for boards of directors. We have to remain ethical, transparent and continue to disclose. This is the only way we are going maintain the public and shareholders confidence and continue to attract investors to invest. References Bruvik, K., Whitney Gibson, J. (2011). The past, presentand future of executive compensation. Business Studies Journal, 3(1), pp. 69-83. Colley, Jr, J. L., Doyle, J. L., Logan, W. G., Stettinius, W. (2005). What is Corporate Goverance? New York, NY: Mcgraw-Hill. Geddes, G. (n.d). Executive pay packages: Compensation planning in light of increased scrutiny. Retrieved 02 08, 2013, from Gowlings: http://www.gowlings.com/knowledgeCentre/publicationPDFs/Executive%20Pay%20Packages%20Compensation%20Planning.pdf Mangen, C., Magnan, M. (2012). Say on Pay: A wolf in sheeps clothing? Academy Of Management Perspectives, 26(2), pp. 86-104. Mendleson, R. (2012, 01 04). Canada CEO Compensation: Companies Hesitant To Debate Executive Pay. Retrieved 02 08, 2013, from The Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/01/04/canada-ceo-compensation-companies-resist-debate_n_1183800.html Milne, J. A. (2006, May). Good corporate governance, good performance. Benefits Compensation Digest, 43(5), 3 4-38. Moncrieff, J. (2012, December 18). CCGG Releases 2013 principles of executive compensation. Retrieved 02 08, 2013, from Canadian Securities Law: http://www.canadiansecuritieslaw.com/2012/12/articles/corporate-governance/ccgg-releases-2013-principles-of-executive-compensation/ Romano, R., Bhagat, S. (2009). Reforming executive compensation: Focusing and committing to the long-term. Faculty Scholarship Series. Stikeman Elliott. (2009). Topics and trends in executive compensation: wealth accumulation analysis. Retrieved 02 08, 2013, from Canadian Securities Law: http://www.canadiansecuritieslaw.com/2009/05/articles/continuous-timely-disclosure/topics-and-trends-in-executive-compensation-wealth-accumulation-analysis/

Strategic Analysis Of Mcdonald In India Business Essay

Strategic Analysis Of Mcdonald In India Business Essay McDonald in India is a joint-venture under the ownership and management of two Indians, Amit Jatia and Vikram Bakshi . Amit Jatia is managing director of Hardcastle Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. owns and spearheads McDonalds in west south India. However, McDonald in North and East India are managed and owned by Vikram Bakshi who is the owner of Connaught Plaza Ltd as well (McDonalds India, 2009). With success and leadership spanning over 12 years in the Indian Industry, McDonald is having a network of over 170 restaurants in India, with initiation of its business in the country in 1996. Company spent four years in developing its unique cold chain, resulting in bringing a revolution in the industry in terms of food handling. This investment benefited farmers in terms of avoiding risks associated with food handling and consumers in terms of provision of fresh and quality food products at great value (McDonalds India, 2009). McDonalds Business Model in India Business model, according to McDonald (2009), is based on four main pillars. And these pillars are fresh food, affordable prices, fast service and limited menu. As per McDonalds India (2009), first pillar, fresh food is the outcome of the initial investment in the development of unique cold chain. In fact, the companys integrated supply chain and its focus on centralized customers service are the among the key core competencies. Similarly, affordable prices distinguish the company from its competitors. However, the trust of the company on limited menu needs to be changed because of the demands and eating habits and preferences of the Indian customers. SWOT Analysis In the growing market of India, following are believed strengths of McDonald. Strengths Flexibility and Innovation in products Adaption to the market of India, particularly, meeting the religious and cultural demands of the customers. According to Jauhari (2007) initially McDonald dropped mutton, beef and ham burgers from its menu in India keeping in view the life style, religion and eating habits of the customers, and introduced vegetarian products. In case of sauces, the company provides 100% vegetarian sauces. The company understands of the consumers preferences and its ability to respond quickly through innovative ways is one of its strengths. This is what helps the company to successfully work on its strategy of think global and act local. Jauhari (2007: 135) states that McDonald stays ahead of its competitors by being innovative and looking for new opportunities. Jahuri (2007) states that company has introduced innovative ideas such as various packages for family and children and these innovative product offerings have created intimacy with customers. Further, its use of local people in its staff helps the company to create trust among the customers and to avoid any political pressures and issues (McDonald, 2009). Supply Chain Management Supply Chain is amongst important aspects that ensures success in the current era of competition. And according to McDonald (2009), Supply Chain model is amongst the utmost precisions. This matchless supply chain structure not only ascertain on time raw materials and supplies delivery but also helps the company reduce its cost, resulting in maximizing profits along with enabling the company to maintain high quality standards (McDonald (2009). The commitment level of the company can be seen from the huge amount in its supply chain model even before the start of business in the country in order to establish its delivery mechanism (Kulkarni, 2009). The companys efforts to develop a well-organized supply chain structure and set up modern technologies brought enormous changes in the entire fast food industry in India, raising the performance standards which seem to match international levels (Kulkarni, 2009). Kulkarni (2009) further states that the companys joint ventures with local suppliers and distributers helps the company to act proactively through the use of these information channels and these long term relations help the company to reduce its costs, improve quality and create intimacy in the market as well. Hence, supply chain integration is one of the strengths of the company. Cold Chain has been amongst the unique ideas initiated by McDonald in India after the efforts of six years efforts (Kulkarni, 2009). In fact, McDonald (2009) states that this revolutionary system offers immense advantage to farmer on the one hand by reducing the risks on perishables, and provides advantage to the customers on the other hand by offering them quality and fresh products at great value. Kulkarni (2009) also mentions the benefits of the cold chain stating that cold chain has enabled the company to reduce the costs and minimize wastage of perishables, on one hand and on the other hand, this cold chain helped the company to satisfy its customers by maintaining freshness and nutritional value of the products and relevant raw material. Affordable Prices In fact, this is again one of the innovative strategies that have widened the customer base of McDonald in India. McDonald used various price strategies for its customers and offered different food to match the target market (Kulkarni, 2009). McDonald initially was believed to have high prices in India and therefore, expansion outside the metros was unlikely because of affordability problems. But the company changed the perception through its flexible and innovative offers (Kulkarni, 2009). Centralized Customers Support Service Similarly, joining hands with vCustomer Corporation has helped the company to deliver the services to its customers through a centralized system, providing the customers support services and helping them to place an order (Kirkland, 2008). However, one of the main benefits this partnership provides is the information about the desires and demands of the customers by separating order and non-order calls (Kirkland, 2008). This helps the company to take corrective actions. Hence, focussing on customers with every possible way is amongst the strength that helps the company to understand and respond to the target market demands. Weaknesses Limited Menu The menu McDonald offers, however, is limited which can be argued not to fulfil the market demands (See Kulkarni., 2009). The fast food concept of Indian people can be deemed different than that of its European market (Goyal and Singh, 2007). For instance, Indians generally prefer spicy tandoori and curry food (McDonald, 2009) and Hindus do not eat meat (Cow particularly) and Muslims do not eat pork due to their religious restrictions (McDonald, 2009; Goyal and Singh, 2007). Further, according to Kulkarni (2009), Indian culture is diversified and different regions have different regions and such differences have been a challenge and demand the company new markets regularly in the market Inefficiencies in Home delivery The company has weakness in its delivery of orders in the Indian market (www.mcdonaldsindia.com). This weakness in fact is the lack of speed in its delivery and unavailability of delivery service in many of outlets. This is hampering its sales and gives its competitor to get the attention of its customers by offering the service in more efficient way. Global Warming The company uses material in its packaging which is harmful to the environment, causing damages to the Ozone layer and contributing to global warming (Kulkarni, 2009). In this way, McDonald is not fulfilling its social responsibility and this is one of the weaknesses in the business environment where governments, agencies and media are focusing on such issues and consumers are becoming aware of such phenomena. Opportunities Expansion India is a huge market (Jauhuri, 2003). Expansion strategies of McDonald and its current business model of expansion provide an opportunity to enhance its market share by opening its outlets in other areas of the country (See McDonald, 2009). According to (www.mcdonaldsindia.com), huge potential of growth exist in the market because there are many areas or cities in India which are currently not served by the company. Changing gender roles, paucity of time, customer sophistication and confidence, double income group and large population of India in them can be argued as opportunities for McDonalds (Keshwani et al., 2009). Out-of-Home Breakfast According McDonald (2009), research indicates that a large percentage of people in big cities have a desire to have breakfast out of their home if suitable breakfast is available. And changing gender role (McDonald, 2009) can be believed one of its reasons. This is another opportunity for the company to increase its sales by capturing such market segment by serving breakfast in its outlets. Better Home Delivery As discussed earlier, inefficiencies in home delivery provides another opportunity to enhance its customer base. This includes, both, provision of faster delivery and expansion of their home delivery across all outlets in India. Environmental Friendly Packaging If company uses other type of packages that do not affect the environment, it can be an opportunity to create a positive image and to avoid any future embarrassment from any of the agencies and government. Threats Religious and political confrontation As mentioned by McDonald (2009), in 2001, the company has faced such challenges. Many outlets in Mumbai were in face of having problems from the anti-American elements in the country. Similar threats are from the religious groups as well if there is any mistrust in the companys products which are against the religious codes of Hindus and Muslims in the country. As said earlier, the company in Western markets uses pork and meet and this matter was politicised in early 2000 and hence if mistrust is created, it can harm the companys image and can negatively affect is sales and market share. Changing Customers preferences Changing customers lifestyle and may tend to eat different and more healthy food (Sharma, 2005). The current concept of fast food may be replaced by new trends in food such as use of genetically modified food (Onyango et al., 2004). According to Goyal and Singh (2007) in India, there is high concern of healthy food because Indian people are facing the issues of Obesity and one reason for this problem is use of fast food which is high on calories and fats. The role of Media has been vital for such awareness among the consumers. Competition from Local Food Companies As suggested by Kulkarni (2009), though currently none of the local food companies can be said to be national, yet they have been growing with a speed that can be a threat to the multinationals such as McDonald. Given the opportunities in the market, local companies such as Nirulas can be potential threat in future. Nevertheless, given the innovative strategies in its product offerings, pricing, supply chain model, focus on understanding the demands and desires of customers, and flexibility, McDonald can be believed to overcome its future threats and convert its weaknesses into its strengths, eventually helping itself to grow in the huge market of India. Porters five forces Analysis Porters five forces model is founded on the idea that strategy of an organization should be according to the threats and opportunities in the external environment of the organization. Particularly, competitive strategy is needed to be based on understanding structures of the industry and the ways these structures transform (Porter, 1985). In fact, Porter recognized five competitive forces which, according to him, form every market and industry (Porter, 1985). The five competitive forces, together, shape competition and its intensity, therefore industry attractiveness and its profitability. According Porters model of five forces, the purpose of firm strategy is to transform the constituent forces in order to make them work in the favor of the company and strengthen the position of the firm in the industry. According to Chapman (2005), on the basis of obtained information from this model, decisions should be made to affect or to manipulate certain features the industry. An analysis of the industry to help McDonalds management to benefit from the industry has been provided below. Competition This industry is very competitive. Many large and small companies exist in this industry, fighting for improving the customer base by offering a range of products and services. Same is the situation with McDonalds in all over the world and India is not an exception. Presence of Dominos, Pizza corner, KFC, Barista and many of the local food companies in India are the threat for McDonald in India (Jauhari, 2003). High exit barriers, and low switching costs are also the part of the factors that increase the threats because high exit costs, on one hand, can force the companies to compete and survive in the same industry. On the other hand, low switching costs for consumers in the industry is a serious threat for McDonald because availability of choices can mean more buyer power and loss of customers. Entry It is tough to come into this industry as it is difficult to create a distinctive brand name. Further, cost of entry associated with high research and development cost makes it difficult for the new entrants. Large reputable names in the industry such as McDonald make it hard for the new companies to enter and succeed in a given market. Similarly, high fixed and storage costs for perishable also are barriers to entry of the new firms in the industry (Jauhri, 2003). However, in case of McDonald in India, it can be seen that though new entrants are not the major threat, yet expansion of existing local restaurants such as Nirulas (Kulkarini, 2009), are amongst the threats. Substitutes Though as discussed earlier, McDonald has its own ways of surviving and growing in the markets including India, yet many substitutes from local and other multinationals are available in form of traditional Indian food including North-Indian and South-Indian, other Asian and Western (Keshwani, 2009). And this can result as a threat for McDonald and these foods can be replaced with MDC Burgers, Beverages, dairy products, and others or with some new foods, low in calories and fats (Onyango et al., 2004). Strength of Suppliers As discussed earlier, focus of McDonald on supply chain and its current supply chain structure and its relationship with suppliers of various ingredients of food are the factors which can be believed as strengths for the company (Kulkarni, 2009). Seen this way, company does not seem to have any such challenge from the strength of suppliers. Strength of Buyers Relatively strength of buyers is less threatening, but it does not mean that it is not there. Increasing competition and increasing substitute pose a threat for McDonalds. As already stated the presence of Domino, Pizza corner, Pizza hut and local food companies, competition and threat of substitution is increasing (Kulakarni, 2009; Goyal and Singh, 2007). Hence, the strength of the buyer is also on increase. Core Competencies of McDonalds in India According to McDonald (2009), four pillars or core competencies of the company are given above. These include fresh food, affordable prices, fast service and limited menu. These four areas which are believed by McDonald (2009) as their four pillars in India are core competencies of the company with the exception of limited menu. Fresh food provision because of unique cold chain of the company is amongst the core competencies (Kulkarni, 2009). Similarly, as discussed earlier, various price offers suitable to various segments of the target market are also believed that pricing of McDonald have significant positive impact in its current position in India (Kulkarni, 2009; Jauhari, 2003). Fast service also is one of the core competencies of the company if this is the case of the customer service inside the outlets and customer support and ordering service in collaboration with vCustomers corporation. However as stated in weaknesses part of SWOT analysis, home delivery to the customers is not that efficient. Hence, in this case, it is not the core competency. If the company really wants to work on this area to overcome these delays, it can become its core competency. Similar, doubts can arise by claiming limited menu as a pillar because with this limited menu, meeting the requirement of the diverse market seems difficult and when competition from the rivals is enhancing and when customers eating habits are different than the previous markets of the company. Recommendations Given the information from SWOT analysis, Porters five forces analysis and discussion on core competencies, a few recommendations are given below to help management understand current issues and the issues in future, eventually helping the management designing their strategies accordingly. Improved Product Home Delivery This is one of the areas of urgent focus because unavailability and delay in products can negatively impact the sales and market share of the company. Expansion and Variety As Indian market is a big and growing market and McDonald (Sharma, 2005) has its brand name, it should expand business and open many outlets in the areas which are still not served by the company. This will help to serve more areas and availability of outlets can help in reducing the delivery time as well. Similarly, keeping in view the population and diversity in population in terms of religion, income etc, it is suggested to add more variety to the menu in order to hit more market segments. Global Warming More focus on the products, packaging, and other activities which do not harm the environment is needed.

Nigeria And The Achievements Of Ecowas Politics Essay

Nigeria And The Achievements Of Ecowas Politics Essay The ECOWAS treaty of 1975 provides for the freedom of movement and residency. This means the abolition of visas and the right to reside anywhere in West Africa. The phase one of the protocol guaranteeing free entry of community citizens without visa for ninety days was ratified by member states in 1980 and became effective to usher in an era of free movement of ECOWAS citizens within member states. The right of entry, residence and establishment were to be progressively established within 15 years from the definitive date of entry into force of the protocol.  [2]   The Nigerian investment in the ECOWAS as an organisation has been considerable. At the same time, it has been an investment from which Nigeria has gained much in return. The vast sums of money and resources given by Nigeria to ECOWAS and its member states has been based on what might be called a general policy of enlightened self interest. For example, Nigeria has realized that the promotion of regional free trade, which is one of the objectives of ECOWAS, is crucial if she is to enjoy the benefits of balanced future economic development.  [3]  However, in spite of the big brother role Nigeria plays in ECOWAS, the Buhari regime was unable to observe the protocol on free movement of individuals which is required by the article 3 of the ECOWAS treaty. The administration closed the Nigerian borders and expelled illegal aliens. The closure of the Nigerian borders affected Nigerias neighbours to the extent that many West African leaders pleaded publicly that the borders be re-opened. The closure of the borders resulted in ECOWAS chairmanship being offered to Buhari at the ECOWAS summit of 1984. But he turned down the offer giving the excuse that the regime needed total commitment to the domestic issues in Nigeria.  [4]   However, in August 1986, the Babangida regime came to power. This new regime having realized the dangers inherent in the continuous closure of the countrys borders with her neighbours decided to re-open them to give a boost to their economies which had been strangulated by Buharis policy.  [5]  This new position however, was not without conditions. In that same year, Nigeria adopted a new immigration policy. According to Mr Dahiru Mohammed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, who was representing Colonel John Shagaya, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria had ratified the protocol, and would allow citizens of ECOWAS member states live and work in Nigeria without visas and work permits.  [6]  However, only immigrants in six professional categories would be allowed. These include engineers, doctors and health personnels, teachers, architects, surveyors and bilingual secretaries. Other professionals such as journalists, lawyers, and accountants, as well as un skilled workers will be excluded  [7]  . According to him, the certificates of professionals in the approved six categories would be verified by government agencies, and such immigrants would be required to find employment within six months of arrival, failing which they would be expelled. It was this principle of admissible categories of expatriate professionals that Nigeria put forward to ECOWAS as a basis for the conferment of resident status on a community citizen. This was accepted at the Abuja summit in 1986.  [8]   ECOWAS remains the only region in Africa where the citizens do not need a visa to visit one another. 3.2TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION DEVELOPMENT As part of efforts towards the physical integration of the sub-region, ECOWAS has embarked on programmes to interconnect existing networks in areas of transport and communications. These are projects capable of promoting integration and constitute the major links in the development of the community. Transport, communications and energy services are a crucial element in improving economic competitiveness and strengthening regional integration. In particular, for export promotion and intra-regional trade, the improvement of road and telecommunications networks, and provision of energy at affordable cost should be treated as key priority areas as we strive to carve a place for ECOWAS countries within the world economy.  [9]   According to analysts, the economic wealth and military power of a people or a nation have been closely tied to efficient methods of transportation. This provides access to natural resources and promotes trade, allowing a nation to accumulate wealth and power. Transportation also allows the movement of soldiers, equipment and supplies.  [10]   Nigeria, on her part has realized that her national intereststhe development and expansion of its economy, the raising of the standard of living of its population, and the future physical security of its territorycan only be effectively secured through joint programmes of balanced production, distribution and consumption of goods and services on a regional basis. In the long term, an industrialized Nigeria hopes to be able to export manufactured products freely to other West African states as well as to invest directly in the production of raw materials in ECOWAS nations, which would then be used to supplement local needs.  [11]   To this end, Nigeria in the 1970s, undertook the construction of roads to link up two member states in order to facilitate trade and boost contact among states. For example, the Lagos-Cotonou highway was constructed at a highly subsidized rate by the Nigerian government.  [12]  On March 6, 2006, the Nigeria-Niger joint commission met in Abuja. At the meeting, the ministers of transport for Nigeria and Niger discussed the building of a rail link from Kaura Namoda through Sokoto to Birnin-nKonni in Niger Republic.  [13]   Over the years, Nigeria has emphasized and assisted in the creation of the communitys structures. She believes in the building of strong regional institution as a pre requisite for the establishment of a meaningful regional integration.  [14]  For example, Nigeria has made substantial contributions to the generation of hydro-electric power to Niger and also supplied gas to Benin, Togo, Ghana under a 5 million Naira inter ECOWAS pipeline gas project.  [15]  The Authority of Heads of State and Government, on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers, approved the Community telecommunications programme known as INTELCOM I at its May 1979 session held in Dakar. The objective of the programme was to improve and expand the sub-regional telecommunications network. The principal objectives of the INTELCOM I programme were as follows: to open-up the Member States which did not have reliable links with the outside world; to complete the missing links in the PANAFTEL network in West Africa; to establish direct micro wave links between the capital cities of Member States; to increase telecommunications traffic within ECOWAS. From 1983 to 1992, the Community, through the ECOWAS Fund, made significant efforts to finance the first programme which attained 95% of its initial objectives as confirmed by the evaluation undertaken by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). The Authority directed the Executive Secretariat to elaborate and implement a second telecommunications programme to be known as INTELCOM II. The main objective of the INTELCOM II programme is to provide the Community with a regional telecommunications network that is modern, reliable, and capable of offering a wider variety of services, including multimedia and wide band services. This will reduce transits through countries outside Africa and improve direct links between Member States.  [16]   3.3 PEACE WITHIN WEST AFRICA NIGERIA AND ECOMOG The years 1972-1975 have been said to be the most peaceful period in the history of the sub region. As from 1980, West Africa became a jungle of wars. Thus, ECOWAS deviated from its original vision of economic integration to a peace keeping organization.  [17]  Various Nigerian governments, military and civilian, have tried to maintain the big brother role played by Nigeria in the sub region. The economic focus of the Ibrahim Babangida regime led to the greater interest in ECOWAS as well as trade and security. Links with Nigerias neighbours resulted in the regimes restoration of good neighbourliness in West Africa.  [18]  Unlike any other period in West Africa, the Babangida regime witnessed quite a number of conflicts. One of these was the border division of the Ewes between Ghana and Togo which has often been criticized by the Ewes who have for long expressed desire to live in one country. Unfortunately, the Ewe irredentism had become a ready tool in the hands of the Eyadem a administration. Accusing fingers were often pointed in the direction of Ghana. This was demonstrated in 1989 when the call for multi-partism to replace the one party system was made. The Eyadema administration played up the Ewe irredentism to implicate Ghana, a country with a large concentration of Ewes. To allow the Ghana-Togo crisis go unchecked would have carried with it a high security risk for the sub region. The Babangida regime offered itself as an impartial arbiter on the issue.  [19]  Article 52(1) and (2) of the revised ECOWAS Treaty (1993) provides not only for the prevention and resolution of conflicts, but also contains a clause on the establishment of a regional peacekeeping force for the prevention, containment, moderation and termination of hostilities between or within member states through the medium of a third party intervention and directed intentionally, using multi-national forces of soldiers and civilian personnel to maintain peace.  [20]  The idea o f a peace keeping force hinged on the idea that development cannot be achieved without security and peace. The Executive Secretary of ECOWAS, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, once said this about insecurity in the sub region, it takes us away from our original mandate: economic cooperation, economic development and fighting poverty, stepping up trade, etc. political instability in any member state diverts our attention.  [21]  In 1990, due to the Liberian crisis, there was a revision of ECOWAS goals. Events in Liberia, being a member of ECOWAS impacted directly on the fortunes of both the organization and all its constituent member states. Thousands of people died in conflict related situations, most of them civilians, and hundred thousands of others were turned into refugees as a result of the war. In addition, Liberian nationals, citizens of other ECOWAS states, diplomats and foreign citizens were increasingly exposed to the triple hazard of war, starvation and disease.  [22]  Th e stage for Nigerias involvement in the Liberian crisis was decided at the 13th session of the Authority of Heads of States and Government in Banjul, Gambia from May 28-30, 1990 under the chairmanship of Blaise Campraore of Burkina Faso. A committee was set up for the formation of ECOWAS Cease Fire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG).  [23]  Despite the genuine fears of informed Nigerians about the capacity of the economy to accommodate the Liberian crisis, the Babangida regime saw the issue in a different light. As far as the administration was concerned, the outbreak of hostilities in Liberia called for practical demonstration of the countrys age long good neighbourliness tradition. In addition to the security implications of the crisis, the regime foresaw the damage the carnage in Liberia would cause its leadership role in Africa.  [24]  Subsequently, ECOMOG was instituted for the Liberian crisis. Nigeria also led ECOMOG to dislodge the Johnny Koromah led military junta that ousted Teejan Kabbah in Sierra Leone in 1997 and restored peace in the country. Nigeria also closed down her embassy in Freetown with six other countries in compliance with the directives of the ECOWAS Council of Foreign Ministers.  [25]   Nigerias efforts at finding peaceful means to end the wars in the sub region could be seen in her contributions of man power, technical assistance and aid via ECOWAS. Nigeria alone has committed eight field commanders to ECOMOG and contributed about 70% of the troops in the peacekeeping operations in Liberia.  [26]  According to President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria spent eight billion Dollars and lost about five hundred men in the Liberia and Sierra Leone crisis.  [27]  On the platform of ECOWAS vis-à  -vis the ECOMOG, Nigeria intervened in Liberia and Sierra Leone revolutionary conflict over the control of government structures, which were rooted in political and ideological differences lasting till the late 1990s. Not wanting a re-occurrence of the situation and aftermath of the Liberian and Sierra Leone civil war, ECOWAS working in collaboration with Nigeria, did not allow the Ivorian civil war linger for a long time before prompt intervention providing solutions to the c onflict. Thus, Nigeria in West Africa has successfully led the way in resolving the crisis situation in Liberia and Sierra Leone through the instrumentality of the sub regional peacekeeping mechanism, ECOMOG. The establishment of the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) despite its handicaps, has proved to be one of the most durable and outstanding achievements of ECOWAS. It has not only provided a novel method for the maintenance of peace and security, which is now widely acknowledged, it has more importantly saved West African states and their nationals from mindless brutality, if not extinction.  [28]   ENDNOTES Dr S.K.B Asante ECOWAS and Freedom of Movement West Africa (London) 3 July 1978. p.1285 Richard Alkali, West Africa: ECOWAS-Its Formation and Achievements. http://allAfrica.com Anyanwu et al, History of Nigeria: Nigeria in the Twentieth Century. (Nigeria: Longman, 1991) p.213 Bunmi Odenubi, Nigerias Foreign Relations in the New Millennium Nigerian Forum. Vol 22, No 7-8. July-Aug 2001. p.157 Hassan A. Saliu, The Foreign Policy Legacies of Ibrahim Babangidas Regime in Nigeria. Nigerian Forum. Vol 22, No7-8, March-April 1995. p.50 Edem Kodjo, ECOWAS: Braving Troubled Waters West Africa (London) 30 June 1986. pp.1363-1364 Ibid R. Omotayo Laniyan, Nigeria and the ECOWAS: A Role and Problem Analysis, in G.O Olusanya and R.A Akindele (eds), Nigerias External Relations: The First Twenty Five Years. (Ibadan: University Press Ltd, 1986) p.127 Achievements of ECOWAS http://www.ECOWAS Official Site.org Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia. Anyanwu et al, History of Nigeria,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ p.214 Ibid. p.213 Bulletin on Foreign Affairs. Vol 21. March 2006. R.O Olaniyan, Nigeria and the ECOWASà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ p.132 Achievements of ECOWAS http://www.ECOWAS Official Site.org Ibid Information from Professor Adebayo Adedeji, aged about 80 years, ACDESS, Ijebu Ode, 11 Feb,2009 Nigerian Forum. Vol 22, No 5-6. May-June 2001.p.133 Hassan A. Saliu, The Foreign Policy Legacies of Ibrahim Babangidas Regime in Nigeria. Nigerian Forum, Vol 22, No 7-8, March-April 1995. p.51 Dele Ogunmola, ECOWAS and Conflict Management in Cote dIvoire: Appraisal and Prognosis Nigerian Forum. Vol 26. No 5-6. 2005. p.152 Daily Trust online editon, May 25, 2005 Odeyemi Oluwafunmilayo, Economic Cooperation in West Africa: A Look at the Achievements of ECOWAS 1991-2005. (A B.A Long Essay submitted to Babcock University Ogun State.)April 2007. p.45 Bunmi Odenubi, Nigerias Foreign Relations in the New Millenium. Nigerian Forum. Vol 22, No7-8. July-August 2001. pp. 158-159 Hassan A Saliu, The Foreign Policy Legacies of Ibrahim Babangidas Regime in Nigeria. Nigerian Forum.Vol 22, No7-8, March-April 1995. pp. 51-52. http://www.news.bbc.co.uk Ibid http://www.google.com http://www. Africa week magazine.com

Individual and Society: The Womens Movement Essay -- Essays Papers

Individual and Society: The Women's Movement The role of women is like any other factor that determines the advancement of society as a whole; it is continually changing and affecting its surroundings at the same time. From beginning as unimportant citizens, to creating a strong feminist movement, to the "picture-perfect," subservient housewife, and finally to an opinionated, self-sufficient human being who has a variety of options, women have drastically changed their role in a male-dominated society. It is through these several stages of history that the significance of women's rights has progressed and presently placed them in positions with power. As a group, women have survived tremendous variations in lifestyles, showing their importance as individuals in society. Historically, women have moved from being one of the lowest statures in culture to a dignified class of people who are now nearly equivalent to men. It is the nature of human beings, though, to not always defend and follow the laws of society and thus discrimination against women still exists. However, the development of women's rights has come a long way since the limited views held by those in power in the Old Regime. The basic philosophy of earlier times showed no consideration for the female sex and little concern for their well-being. Not until the women's movement, which began around the mid-nineteenth century, did women start to progress as an individual group demanding rights and privileges. The Seneca Falls Convention of 1848 met "to consider the social, civil, and religious condition and rights of women."(1) Beginnings of a stage of realization for the need for improvement were starting to appear and a willingness to attempt to better their st... ...le River: Prentince Hall, 1997), 493. 8. Betty Friedan, "The Feminine Mystique (1963)" in Perry M. Rogers, ed., Aspects of Western Civilization: Problems and Sources in History. (Upper Saddle River: Prentince Hall, 1997), 508. 9. Betty Friedan, "The Feminine Mystique (1963)" in Perry M. Rogers, ed., Aspects of Western Civilization: Problems and Sources in History. (Upper Saddle River: Prentince Hall, 1997), 509. 10. "United Nations Declaration of Women's Rights (1967)" in Perry M. Rogers, ed., Aspects of Western Civilization: Problems and Sources in History. (Upper Saddle River: Prentince Hall, 1997), 510. 11. "United Nations Declaration of Women's Rights (1967)" in Perry M. Rogers, ed., Aspects of Western Civilization: Problems and Sources in History. (Upper Saddle River: Prentince Hall, 1997), 511-512.

A. B. Facey’s Relation to The typical Australian Essay -- essays resea

Australia has had many national identities in its existence; the most noticeable of these being the Bush discourse, the battler discourse, the Convict discourse and the Larrikin discourse. Russel Ward utilises these discourses in his book, â€Å"The Australian Legend†. He explains that the typical Australian is a practical man, tough who drinks heavily. A. B. Facey is a classic example of a typical Australian, although he does not fit in with all of the aspects of Ward’s construction. The convict discourse, Australia’s first image, was christened by the first fleet, which consisted of incredibly hard-hitting men, who came from Britain in 1788. Britain was no longer allowed to ship convicts from Britain to the American Colonies, forcing her to find a new land to use. Australia. The convict discourse consisted, like most of Australia’s identities, of the dominant man, strong, practical and entirely anti-British, holding absolutely no respect for the crown. After the British government became aware of the reputation of Australia, she began offering free land to settlers who wished to take up residence in Australia. This was designed as a bribe to create a more pro-government settlement. During the 19th century, the representation of Australia began to change. Poets such as Banjo Patterson created this new image, through poems such as â€Å"The Man From Snowy River†, creating the image of the bush. In addition to the bush discourse and the convict discourse Australia had the militar...

Coffee Industry in the UK Essay -- Business Marketing Essays

Coffee Industry in the UK The coffee industry has grown rapidly since the 1990s; before Starbucks emerged, people were used to drinking low quality coffee from tins. Starbucks introduced fresh coffee made from top quality beans that have excellent taste and drinks such as the caffe latte and cappuccino, which have helped to fuel the development of the coffee market into a multi million pound industry. The size of UK branded coffee chains have quadrupled from 1999 to 2004, with a current market turnover of over  £1 billion. 2 Market Forecasts The coffee market is forecast for continued growth and expansion, without threat of saturation in the near future. In 2004 the coffee market was estimated at having around 2,299 outlet units and it 2006 it is predicted that the number of units will have increased to an estimated 2,965, with the growth of the branded coffee sector predicted to increase by 11% between 2004 and 2006. Indeed, branded chain outlets have accounted for most of the coffee market growth according to forecasts by industry analysts Allegra Strategies. Allegra claims that although there are more independents than branded coffee chains, in 2005 and 2006 it is expected that more branded than independent chains will be opening. Indeed, some independents. such as Bewley’s in London, have had to close down. 3 Macro - environment analysis of the market Social The coffee market must adapt to a change in consumer attitudes or else it may be threatened by health and lifestyle issues. In 2003 the hot drinks market declined by an estimated 2.3%. Consumers, especially young people, are becoming more health conscious which makes coffee a less attractive choice; the increasing number of alternatives available such as health and energy drinks are becoming competitors in the coffee industry. Research carried out by Mintel shows that there is an increased diversification of tea, with a trend towards premium and herbal teas. The coffee industry are responded to this change in attitude by provision of de-caf drinks, options such as soy milk, and alternative drinks such as freshly squeezed fruit juices, chai lattes and herbal teas. People are now working harder than ever before but have more leisure time; they now use coffee shops to socialise. Allegra research claims that dwelling time in coffee shops has increased; 44.9% of consumers stay... ...au then tic cost a coffee e www.dandad.org/inspiration/ creativityworks/pdf/authentic.pdf UK coffee shop market statistics 14 Mar 2005, Caterer & Hotelkeeper magazine, http://www.caterer-online.com/archive/articledetail.asp?articleID=57531 Nestle Caterer & Hotelkeeper magazine, http://www.caterer-online.com/archive/articledetail.asp?articleID=50580 Branded coffee bars are squeezing independents http://www.thehospitalitysite.com.au/article/44/OcO2db44.asp 2005 Allegra Strategies Ltd. No.1 Northumberland Av, Trafalgar Square. London, http://www.allegra.co.uk/project-cafe5-keyfindings.html Oxfam to open coffee shops BB News May 2004 Http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/3708585.stm Starbuck’s success - More than just coffee ICFAI University Press http://www.icfaipress.org/304/AN-Starbuckway_72.asp The Coffee Market ‘A Background Study’ Oxfam International Commodity Research http://www.maketradefair.com/en/assets/english/BackgroundStudyCoffeeMarket.pdf . The State of Sustainable Coffee Executive Summary http://www.ico.org/libser/executive%20summary.pdf . Whitbread Briefing Book 2005 Volume 1 http://www.whitbread.co.uk/docs/Briefing_Book_2005_voll.pdf

25th Hour Movie Analysis Essay

1. 25th Hour, directed by Spike Lee, presents men partially in a typical way. The typical representation of men in Hollywood film defines them as being aggressive and powerful. They are expected to bear pain silently, suppress their emotions easily, and dominate their women. Also, typical males usually don’t pay any attention to their sicknesses and try to prove their masculinity to others. However, the movie includes a hegemonic negotiation of emotional outbursts over the traditional image of masculinity. Therefore, the main character, Monty, is a famous and respected drug dealer who spends his last day of freedom. He is presented as being powerful throughout the movie because he was living the American dream, driving an expensive car, owning a fancy apartment, having a beautiful, exotic girlfriend and hanging out in luxurious clubs. Although he is independent, being a provider for Naturelle and living an expensive life, he depends on drugs to maintain his power. Monty’s apartment has hardwood floors and tall windows facing the brownstones across the street. There are some black-and-white photographs, lining the walls, and the largest photo, hanging above the sofa, represents Brogan’s Bar; the design of Monty’s apartment shows his power and wealth that came from drugs. Monty’s costuming and appearance illustrate his classy personality. His black and shiny shoes, sober and dark clothes, stylish and well-groomed hair reflect his past glamorous and wealthy life. Although Monty is going to prison in 24 hours, he suppresses all his emotions and sufferings. He walks slowly with Doyle, his dog, and reflects quietly on his life. The length of these shots is around fifteen seconds and shows his masculine insensitivity for the last day of his freedom. When he goes to the Coventry Preparatory School, he looks at his team picture smiling at his past happy memories. Monty goes to talk to Jacob about a change of plans as nothing has happened; he is very calm and doesn’t show any emotion. He even notices Mary saying that she looks cute. Monty tries to pretend that everything is fine, being indifferent and not affected by his imprisonment. Also when Naturelle asks him to talk to her, he answers as if there is nothing to talk about. Montgomery tries to show that he is emotionally powerful to overcome his fear of going to prison. Moreover, when Frank beats Monty, the latter ignores his pain and doesn’t even want to go to the doctor. He is getting prepared mentally and suffers in silence, as he would have to endure prison pain without complaint. Additionally, the traditional male expects to control females, and Montgomery dominates Naturelle throughout the movie. For example, when Montgomery comes home and they walk on the stairs he walks first and Naturelle follows him. He is in a dominant position and the woman just follows and listens to his concerns. Throughout Naturelle and Monty’s conversation Monty is shown in low camera angles, which present his power and control over his girlfriend. On the other hand, Monty shows indifference to people but inside he is furious and terrified. The hegemonic negotiation of traditional masculinity is presented because Monty also shows some emotional breakdowns showing his weakness and powerlessness. This is a more modern representation of masculinity similar to 1950s American films. There are several film form elements that present men as being weak. Monty doesn’t emulate his father but he follows his masculine instinct. The music emphasizes the hidden emotions and feelings of Monty and of other characters affected by his imprisonment. The music provides a very powerful perception of anger, fury, regret, and sorrow. It is in perfect equilibrium to Monty’s inner feelings. For example, from the opening scene the music played represents tension and sorrow and although the tempo changes constantly it is still in relation to Monty’s reactions and emotions of his last day of freedom. After the opening scene, Monty is sitting with his dog getting harassed by a drug addict; the mise en scene of this scene illustrating Monty behind bars foreshadows his future as being lonely, sad and weak. The high camera angles of Monty show him as fragile, humble and vulnerable. The depressing, gloomy and dark weather accentuates his vulnerability. Also, although he is dominant over Naturelle he cares about her future and tells her to forget about him. His strong, exterior armor is cracked by his emotional outbreak during Monty’s washroom monologue. In a collage of over-exposed images of different stereotype people, Monty curses and blames every group, and race for his downfall and for his wealth greed. More importantly he curses himself saying:† No, fuck you Montgomery Brogan† (25th Hour). He finally understands that it is not the society that is accountable for his actions but he is, and it is time for him to pay for the choices he made throughout his life. Therefore, this scene reveals his sensitivity and emotional pain. It presents how love for life can flip into hate. The dark light and self- reflection of Monty resent his inner fury that is ready to explode, while the intense music highlights Monty’s personal rage. Therefore, there’s a bright and heroic strength to Monty, together with a charismatic and sympathetic side, but also a quiet desperation and sorrow in Monty’s last hours of freedom. Monty’s friend, Jacob is presented as a simple teacher that has a crush on his rebellious teenager. He is unable to cope with his feelings. His character is a hegemonic negotiation of traditional masculinity because he is afraid of being judged for his feelings. He acts passively and seems weak in front of females. He is emotional and humble in front of Mary; but he is white so he doesn’t challenge the patriarchal dominance. High camera angles of Jacob show his inferiority and humbleness over other characters. His poor costuming represents his simple personality because he feels guilty for being born rich. When the bell rings and the class lecture is over, Jacob remains alone; a close up of his face show his deep emotions. In the teacher’s lounge scene, Jacob is presented as being stressed and unable to take control over his life. His glasses represent intelligence and rationality, as the typical representation of male. Jacob is afraid of expressing his feelings, so he is lying his friend Frank about his feelings for Mary, saying that Terry a colleague professor likes her. He even tries to make a good impression over Mary stating that he likes a young DJ. In the club Jacob can’t resist Mary’s seductions and he kisses her. The red lights accentuate the danger Jacob is going through. He acts frantically and the mixed song â€Å"but it’s alright â€Å" highlights Jacob’s feelings. He made the choice of kissing her, and his choice will be reflected throughout his life. On the other hand, Frank represents the typical representation of men. He is rich, powerful and successful. He works as a Wall Street stockbroker and is ready to take risk in order to achieve success. His costuming and makeup present him as a male that cares about his appearance and tries to create an impression on people. The mise en scene of his work environment presents a very busy, stressing and hectic workplace but in order to succeed he has to endure the hardship. When he talks to Jacob about Monty’s imprisonment he is very hard on Monty but realistic. He says that the friendship with Montgomery will end after that night; the music, the dark setting and visualization of the devastating Ground Zero depict the cruel reality. Some close ups of Frank portray his emotions and guilt concerning Montgomery’s prison years. Frank tries to make Naturelle feel guilty but doesn’t take into account his mistakes of not helping Monty. As other typical male who throw the guilt to everyone else except himself.  Therefore, throughout the movie males are represented in a typical Hollywood way but Spike Lee introduces a hegemonic negotiation where men appear more sensitive, emotional and vulnerable. 2. In the film 25th Hour, female’s representation is stereotypical. Naturelle, Monty’s girlfriend, is presented as the beautiful, loyal and exotic girlfriend. Naturelle might be considered the femme fatale being smart and sexy. Her smartness is reflected in the scene where she is waiting for Monty to come home, she is reading a book; so she is not as naive as people consider her. At the beginning, male characters think that she is the traitor, so she represents a threat for men. Monty has doubts and trust issues towards Naturelle because she knew where the drugs were. However, in the end Naturelle wasn’t the traitor, wasn’t the woman that destroyed the man that provided for her, instead it was Monty’s bodyguard. It turns out that Naturelle’s loyalty and love is genuine, as one of a housewife. When Montgomery comes home from his long walk, he finds out that Naturelle waited for him the whole day, which shows her concern for Monty’s life. She kisses him first and shows her care and affection throughout the movie. While Naturelle and Monty walk inside the apartment, Monty lies down on the couch whereas Naturelle goes first to kitchen, as a feminine instinct. Her fragility is shown when she tries to open the honey jar. Eating raw honey suggests that she is actually sweet and tender. Close ups of Naturelle deepen her emotions and feelings about Montgomery; and in the bathroom scene Naturelle expresses her love and happiness while being with Monty. Her Puerto Rican tattoo shows that although her boyfriend, who was providing for her didn’t agree with the tattoo, she still got it; her action shows her sense of independence while being faithful to her man. Throughout the movie, fetishization of Naturelle’s body occurs. During the bathroom scene, her legs are being fetishized while in the club close ups of her breasts accentuate her sexy curves. The men around her, such as Frank, always admire her; and her costuming and makeup emphasize her sexy figure. She is dressed in short, sexy, red, silver dresses that make her look powerful and sexy. During a flashback of Monty, when he remembers how he met Naturelle, she appears very sweet, innocent, young and with a provocative skirt. Monty admits that Naturelle is the only girl that he slept with and he keeps fantasizing about her. This demonstrates that she is a source of temptation and happiness for Monty. It is happiness because even in his illusionary ending Naturelle is the mother of his kids and he would have a happy life with her. On the other hand, Mary, the young student, is presented as a moist, innocent but tempting girl. She might also be presented as a femme fatale because she represents a threat for the professor. She is smart enough to argue for her marks. She uses her sexiness to make Jacob weak. Her makeup, costuming and tattoo present her as a rebellious and independent woman. She is independent because she fights for her opinions; for example she came to argue about the fairness of her mark. She is playful and tries to seduce her professor. Also, while she was reading a play in the class, Mary is shot in low angle while the professor in high angle; this implies that Mary controls Jacob through her sexiness and Jacob appears as weak and unable to defend himself from Mary’s seductive allure. However, Mary is still innocent because when Jacob goes to kiss her she has her eyes closed waiting for him, this show her inexperience and fragility. Fetishization of her legs and waist appears and Jacob is tempted by it. Therefore, women appear as a source of temptation for the actors and, their representation is stereotypical; Naturelle’s representation implies love and affection for her boyfriend whereas Mary’s representation presents a rebellious and provocative spirit. 3. Hero or victim, there’s no one to blame or honor for our actions than ourselves.  Each person has to take responsibility and hopefully survive the hard life trials. In 25th Hour, the protagonist has to be accountable for his own actions and not blame others for his imprisonment. All the viewers could relate to Montgomery’s situation because at one point we all have to pay for our mistakes even though it mentally destroys us; but we have to be able to isolate the cruel reality from the beauty of living a dream. The film opens with a black sky and two beams of light, which come from where the twin towers used to be. World Trade Center is presented as Ground Zero, an empty, devastating and ghostly space. This empty space reflects the future of Monty’s life because even though he had everything he threw it away, therefore he is responsible for neglecting what he owned. The music creates a more dramatic and mysterious effect. The viewers are expected to act sympathetically to Monty because although he did not perform heroic deeds, he expresses sincerely his feelings. The ending of the movie is as illusionary as Montgomery’s social power; it lasts till the reality takes over. Also, Monty’s father describes the happy and humble life Monty would have if he would not go to prison and run away. It is an illusionary representation of the typical Hollywood end living happily the American Dream. However, it’s just a dream and Montgomery takes responsibility for his actions because he cannot hide or blame others for what he did. Also, the director presents Monty in a smart way as being able to survive in prison, to become enlightened and who knows maybe after seven years to start an honest and simple life. The audience is given the choice of offering to the hero, a second chance, as he offered one to Doyle, his loving dog. The film ends with a road, which suggests that Monty’s life paths depend only on him. Although the weather creates a melancholic state, the presence of green trees symbolizes Monty’s rebirth. Therefore, there is still hope for Monty after he takes responsibility for his life choices. The ending of the movie makes us feel reflective because we start to contemplate over what is wrong or right in life, over what we should praise or value and that we are all heroes and victims, but is our individual choice that makes us distinctive.