The Idealistic Values That Fueled The Violent And Bloody...

Libertà ©, à ©galità ©, fraternità ©. The idealistic values that fueled the violent and bloody French Revolution. Rigid class hierarchy served as one of the factors that beget the turbulence of a war-torn France in the 1800’s—the tumultuous era in which Guy de Maupassant penned his short story, â€Å"The Necklace.† The Loisels, the main couple of the story, demonstrate unhappiness with their social structure and the insatiable desire for a higher social standing. Yet instead of seeking such lofty ideals as liberty and equality, they sought tangible wealth. By dehumanizing and demeaning her husband in order to achieve a faà §ade of wealth, yet ultimately achieving nothing but a loss of social and economic status, Mathilde Loisel embodies the superficial mindset that Maupassant vilifies. Depicting Mathilde as a shallow woman who loses everything—while mindlessly striving to have more—and contrasting her with her seemingly more simplistic husband, seems to encourage the denunciation of avaricious, materialistic characteristics and the search for excess in order to prevent future generations from essentially turning into objects themselves and precipitating an inexorable fall of their own. Mathilde Loisel typifies an obsession with wealth, serving as the physical representation of an overpowering desire that is ultimately self-destructive and causes a loss of her social identity. When detailing the appearance of her home, Mathilde â€Å"suffered ceaselessly, feeling herself born for all theShow MoreRelatedOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 Pagesthat a new era had begun. A compelling case can be made for viewing the decades of the global scramble for colonies after 1870 as a predictable culmination of the long nineteenth century, which was ushered in by the industrial and political revolutions of the late 1700s. But at the same time, without serious attention to the processes and misguided policies that led to decades of agrarian and industrial depression from the late 1860s to the 1890s, as well as the social tensions and political

Nature of Work Free Essays

Marine Biology also refers to Biological Sciences or Biological Oceanography. Marine Science is the general term for research conducted in oceans and coastal or inland waters connected to the sea. This particular field is probably the best known to the public. We will write a custom essay sample on Nature of Work or any similar topic only for you Order Now Marine Biology deals with the study of micro and living organisms such as plants, animals, viruses, and bacteria in oceans, estuaries, and other bodies of salt water. In the feild of Marine Biology you plan, participate in, and administer research programs for government experiment stations such as private research centers, manufactoring irms, and medical service industries. Tools and equipment for this career includes lab animals, X-Ray and other lab equipment, computers, spectrophotometers, collections of specimens, and a Starting no later than high school, a Marine Biologist should obtain a solid education in as many basic sciences as possible including chemistry, physics, and biology. Mathematics is essential. Plane geometry, trigonometry, solid geometry, and two years of algebra are recommended. Good English is no less important, for both written and oral reports are a big part of Marine Biology. The tudy of a foreign language, especially French, German, or Russian should begin early. Degrees in this study are offered only to college graduate students. Most entry level jobs minimally require a Bachelors degree in a natural science from an accredited college or university. Doctoral degree holders face competition for independent research positions. Those with a Bachelors degree or Masters degree in biological sciences can expect better opportunities for nonresearch In order to be a Marine Biologist or in any line of work, you have to be really dedicated to your job. This is the job I have always wanted ever since I was a little girl. I always loved the water especially the ocean. I think there is so much to discover about it and there are so many marine animals yet to be revealed. If I ever do become a Marine Biologist I either want to work in the laboratory or work in the field. I think it would be interesting to travel to different parts of oceans and discover what kind of plants and animals hide beneath the deep blue waters. Laboratory technicians and testers can acquire more education experience. They can work their way up through research ositions and may reach administrative posts in government or industry. As a rule, high paying postions of prestige go to those with a Ph. D degree and a history of successful research. C. Earnings and Working Conditions Marine Biologists may work in a laboratory, classroom, museum and industrial setting, a botanical garden or zoo, or in a field. They may either work alone or with engineers, technicians, and other scientists at various stages of research or product development. Working conditions vary with the kind of work they do. Indoor work areas may be quiet, well lighted, and air-conditioned. Those who work n laboratories or industrial settings must keep work areas very clean. Ventilation systems generally provide protection from dust, fumes, and odors. Special precautions are taken to protect those scientists who work with infectuous creatures or poisonous chemicals. While working in the field some Marine Biologists travel to coral reefs in tropical seas and ocean waters in cooler climates having to work a The earnings of a Marine Biologist are complicated. Most of these researchers recieve a salary directly from an employer. They write proposals in order to have their research ideas funded by private and overnment agencies. The quality of their results often determines whether they recieve money for future efforts, and consequently, whether they work and for how long. The salaries of a Marine Biologist comes down to each persons education, experience, and At the present time the profession of Marine Biology is one of the least crowded of the science fields. There are only a few thousand Marine Biologists in research, with less than three thousand graduates working and teaching in the United States. Since there is a limited number, opportunities in research are few and competition is stiff. How to cite Nature of Work, Papers

International Business ASEAN Free Trade Area

Question: Discuss about theInternational Business for ASEAN Free Trade Area. Answer: Introduction The ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) is an agreement of trade bloc conducted by Association of Southeast Asian nations that takes care of the local manufacturing in all ASEAN countries. Here in this report, the advantages and disadvantages of Thailand and Brunei Darussalam will be analyzed Advantages of Thailand The location of Thailand always gives them positive results. It acts as the gateway to Asia, which is the largest growing economy at present. According to Aggarwal and Urata (2013), Thailand enjoys easy trade with China, India, and with all the countries included in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Thailand, being one of the founder members of ASEAN has contributed in the formation and growth of the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA). Surely, Thailand is among one of those countries that enjoy some advantages from AFTA. Nguyen (2016) discussed, as per the advice given by The International Institute for Trade and Development to Thailand, they have focused on preparing itself as a major economic hub in terms of both private and public sector. According to Findlay (2015), the country should focus on complete liberalization of its public and private sectors from AFTA. Plummer et al (2016) discussed, it is found that from the last year, the economy of Thailand has improved it s dismal 0.8% because of the expansion of the service and decline in contraction in product exports. According to Area et al (2013), some other benefits that Thailand enjoys from Free Trade Agreement are as follows: More Thai investment in China: From ASEAN FTA negotiations, the most advantageous business areas are hospitality, retailing, restaurants, logistics, tour companies, and education. The Asian-China Free Trade Area arrangement is instrumental in liberalizing the service sectors. According to Liu and Jayanthakumaran (2016), with the 7.4% growth in the service sector of China, it has become a potential market for most of the Thai firms. As discussed by Hayakawa et al (2013), it is a fact that Chinese service sector has faced slow growth since the past few years; it will grow in future due to some effective government measures. In future, the income of both the rural and the local people will improve the condition. According to Kawai and Wignaraja (2013), the national development plans, initiated by the government will accelerate the process of economic growth as it aims to increase the contribution of the service sectors from 40% to 50%. Such a situation will take place by 2020. This will enable Thai business to take advantage of the expanding Chinese market. Tourism is one such sector that can be exploited. Other sectors include Thai spas along with their medical herbs, and natural products. These service industries hold high potential to expand itself into Chinese market. Regulations for investment in the Chinese market have been made more flexible by through FTA. After the second round of negotiations, the Thai entrepreneurs will get the chance to expand their business in China with introduction of 12 new service sectors. As discussed by Chandra (2015), at the same time, investing in Thai shipping and construction will open up new opportunities for the Chinese investors too. According to Postigo (2014), tariff reduction with products in India: The India-ASEAN FTA is instrumental in tariff reduction on products including machinery, chemicals, electronics, and textiles. The 80% of total trades between India and ASEAN countries are benefitted from these reduced tariffs. Within 2013 to 2016, the tariff was reduced to zero. This ASEAN-India FTA is instrumental in accelerating the value of trade. Urata (2014) discussed, it has raised the trade between India and Thailand to $10 billion. However, the estimation was $6 billion. The major exported products to Thailand are metal ores, gemstone, steel, products, chemicals, pharmaceutical products, and vegetables. The major imports to India from Thailand are electric goods, crude oil products, air-conditioning machinery, television receivers, and plastic products. However, India and Thailand have agreed on changing Tariff sub-heading and local content of 35% to consider the origin of products. In addition, they have agreed on Product Specific Rules (PSR). Disadvantages of Thailand: Thailand is concerned about effect of FTA on some agricultural products including palm oil and rice. Such products are included into the countrys sensitive product list. According to Kim et al (2016), it carries tariff of 5%. However, the main challenge of Thailand is to develop the skills and products to meet the demands of the customers. They should focus more on brand awareness to increase the demands for Thai products in the global market. Advantages of Brunei Darussalam It is found that agriculture and fisheries have become major products for the economic growth of Brunei Darussalam in 2015. However, the economy is expected to grow with the increase of oil and gas production. According to Findlay (2015), the 11 FTAs are helping Brunei Darussalam. The global oil glut has underscored all endeavours of reducing oil export dependency of Brunei Darussalam through introducing diversification measures. It has focused on increasing manufacturing and industrial exports to develop local trade. For legal and regulatory reforms, the authorities are focusing on new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). FTA has helped Brunei Darussalam to expand its export market in South Korea, Japan, and Thailand. As a result, the amount of export is 30.8%, 26.2%, and 11.3% respectively. The total export in the oil and gas industries in 2015 was 92%. The primary imports include machinery products and transport equipments. Chandra (2015) discussed, the two major negotiations are- Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), and Bilateral Tax Information Exchange Agreement. FTA has made the Foreign Ownership system in Brunei Darussalam flexible. It is not restricted here. To discuss the incentive policies, the FTA has made the rule that some companies that deal machinery, component parts, equipments, and accessories and building structure are exempted import duties. Another benefit is that the government is hoping an expansion of in the high-tech industries of this country. The trade partnership with India has also become advantageous to them. The Environment Cooperation Agreement and Labor cooperation MOU is the agreement that is instrumental in promoting environmental and labour practices in this country. Disadvantages of Brunei Darussalam: It is a fact Brunei is small market. Therefore, they need more FDI support. According to Chandra (2015), they should focus on developing and exploiting the Aerospace and agriculture and processed food sectors because these are the two major areas in the local market. The small geography and population is the reason behind its avoidance towards large-scale defence equipment purchase. The situation can be improved through FTA. The agreements should encourage partnerships between foreign suppliers and local companies. The areas that can help in developing the economy and expansion of the business include education, agriculture, and Defence and security. The Most Benefitted Country and its Sector Singapore seems to be the most advantageous country enjoying the negotiations of FTA. Till now, 20 FTAs have been implemented and they have 31 trading partners. The largest trade and investment partner of Singapore within Asia is India and the particular business sector that has improved is financial and legal services. According to Findlay (2015), the key benefits are as follows: Restrictions over wholesale banking licences are eased and an improved operating environment for all kinds of financial services is made. Indian law firms and Indian law degrees are given due recognition in Singapore. Through FTA, the residency requirements for Indian professionals in Singapore are made easy. Any short term entry to Singapore for business purpose of the Australian people is also made possible. It has enhanced the business situation. Paperless trading is also given importance to reduce any issues of business related transactions. The economic partnership between Singapore and Indonesia is also a major negotiation. It allows free trade flows that help the export to flourish. As a result, Singapore has developed immensely in past few years. Singapore has become one of the largest export destinations for Indonesia. Findlay (2015) discussed, the contribution of the agreement in the sectors of services is as follows: Free entry to the business visitors and short-term residency purposes in Singapore Reduction in business costs and red tape around the processing of customs, and quarantine standards are major steps. The negotiation has made the purchase of services from Singapore by the people of New Zealand easy. The most Non-Benefitted Country and its Sector FTA, however, does not benefit the poor countries. The expensive nature of the FTAs and unfairness from the part of the authorities are the main reasons of this. Myanmar is one such country. Findlay (2015) opined, this country is one of the poorest countries in the worlds. Even after being a part of ASEAN Free Trade Agreements, the country suffers from trade deficit. The sectors that need development are education and technology. Myanmar is lagging behind due to a large section of its uneducated workforce. AFTA has not taken proper initiatives to enhance its foreign relations with other Asian countries. Most of the goods cross the border of Thailand. The authorities should focus on developing infrastructure. The railways are old. In addition, inflation is a major problem for the growth of its economy. According to Findlay (2015), AFTA should focus on Myanmars free trade with India and Malaysia. Major import and export across these nations can develop Myanmars economy. References Aggarwal, V. and Urata, S., 2013.Bilateral Trade Agreements in the Asia-Pacific: Origins, Evolution, and Implications. Routledge. Area, A.F.T., Window, A.S., Zone, B.G.E., Force, B.G., Built, O., Baht, T.T. and Zone, B.T.C., 2013. ASEAN China Free Trade Area Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation between ASEAN and China AyeyarwadyChao PhrayaMekong Economic Cooperation Strategy.Border Economies in the Greater Mekong Sub-region. Chandra, A.C., 2015. ASEANs rush towards free trade agreements: Do they deliver.ASEAN-Australia relations. Palgrave Macmillan. Findlay, C. ed., 2015.ASEAN and Regional Free Trade Agreements. Routledge. Hayakawa, K., Hiratsuka, D., Shiino, K. and Sukegawa, S., 2013. Who Uses Free Trade Agreements?.Asian Economic Journal,27(3), pp.245-264. Kawai, M. and Wignaraja, G., 2013. Patterns of free trade areas in Asia. Kim, S.Y., Mansfield, E.D. and Milner, H.V., 2016. Regional Trade Governance.The Oxford Handbook of Comparative Regionalism, p.323. Liu, Y. and Jayanthakumaran, K., 2016. Peoples Republic of China (PRC): Thailand Economic Relationship After Signing of Free Trade Agreement in 2005. InChinese Global Production Networks in ASEAN(pp. 77-95). Springer International Publishing. Nguyen, S.T., 2016. Impact of ASEAN: China free trade area on trade flows. Plummer, M.G., Morgan, P.J. and Wignaraja, G. eds., 2016.Connecting Asia: Infrastructure for Integrating South and Southeast AsiaThis book analyses how closer regional connectivity and economic integration between South Asia and Southeast Asia can benefit both regions. With a focus on the role played by infrastructure and public policies in facilitating this process, it provides a detailed and up-to-date discussion of issues, innovations, and progress. Country studies of national connectivity issues and policies cover Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri .... Edward Elgar Publishing. Postigo, A., 2014. Liberalisation and protection under overlapping free trade agreements: dynamic interplay between free trade agreements and investment.The World Economy,37(11), pp.1612-1633. Urata, S., 2014. Managing Asias Free Trade Agreements. InThe Political Economy of Asian Regionalism(pp. 59-83). Springer Japan.

The Handmaids Tale Essays - The Handmaids Tale, Handmaiden, Gilead

The Handmaid's Tale In Margaret Atwood's, The Handmaid's Tale, our eyes are open to an oppressive society of which seems to be the near future. Widespread sterility has led to the rich controlling young women of childbearing age, who are called "handmaidens". The tale is narrated by Kate, also known as "Offred", her handmaid name. She relates her struggle throughout in the most vivid of ways. The struggle around her: the oppressive Republic of Gilead, and the struggle within herself: her effort to maintain her sanity. Her narration is tainted with one main motive, which is her relentless pursuit for the past. The way things used to be things that were so basic to her. Moreover, it is her strive to regain the freedom she has been stripped of which guides her. It is her light at the end of a tunnel she has involuntarily been placed. In the republic of Gilead, women are categorized as Wives, Marthas, Aunts and Handmaids. The latter is considered to be the most valuable of their resources, for they are able to bear children. This society uses a systematic approach to produce offspring, in other words, for the republic to grow. The commanders, top- ranking officials of Gilead, are the wives' husbands. Every so often, "ceremonies" are held where the Commander would attempt to impregnate the handmaid. If successful, the child was claimed by the wives as theirs. The handmaid was not more than a means to an end result. Violation of the norms was not tolerated. The punishment in the most cases was death, which also served as an example to the handmaids. Thus conformity with the rules was a necessity to stay alive, something she questioned if it was worth or not. In the end, Kate is accused of attending Jezebel's with the Commander. Jezebel's can be described as a getaway within the republic. A gathering of people who are there to socialize. Something Kate had been deprived from. In the final moments of her tale, as she sees guards come for her arrest (or so she thought) she contemplates suicide as an alternative for her demise. It was an option she highly welcomed for she rather give up her life than her sanity and her freedom. The guards who took her over came in with Nick (the driver), a character who played a positive role in her stay. They hop in the van. Destination: Unknown. In the end, Atwood leaves up in the air the outcome of Kate's removal. More likely than not, it is a positive one hinted by Nick' appearance in the end. Aside from the story one can find the underlying theme to be one that is not defined with one word. It is the idea of us taking such a basic right as freedom, in its many forms, for granted. Many at times, the only time we acknowledge what we have is when it is taken from us. In addition, another thematic issue notable to mention is the classification or categorization of the female gender. In the story, the women carry on a label, which goes in accordance to the roles they play in this fictitious society. We must consider ourselves very fortunate for not living in a real-life Gilead. Nevertheless, the genre of this novel is not fantasy but rather fiction and thus implying this can actually occur. We must then recognize the problems that Atwood was trying to point out. The relationship between Gilead and our society is the fact that gender does play a major factor on the way we are expected to behave. Not drastically, such as in the novel but enough to coerce us to conduct ourselves distinctively and play the assigned role of our gender.

The Importance of Being Earnest Research Paper Example

The Importance of Being Earnest Research Paper Example The Importance of Being Earnest Paper The Importance of Being Earnest Paper when Algernon asks why he has come to the town. This shows he is irresponsible because it shows he just wants to have fun and enjoy himself. This quote also shows he is wealthy and extravagant because he can obviously travel whenever he wants to and has the cash to do so. This links back to the point that he is irresponsible because if he had the sole responsibility of anything then he wouldnt just be able to travel for example if he worked then he would not just be able to leave his job. The word pleasure emphasises the point that the character Jack is wealthy, as he clearly has a luxurious lifestyle and the money to afford pleasure. The phrase what else should bring one anywhere? also suggests he is young and care free because he has no understanding that people might not travel for pleasure. He appears to be living in his own little world and has no idea that others struggle to find the money to survive and have to work very hard to do so. This is an important part of Oscar Wildes message that the rich were quite nai ve but I will discuss this further later. On the other hand this quote could show he was just spontaneous and always looking for an adventure. Instead of being frivolous he is just enjoying the money he has and making the most of his life. It would probably depend on the audiences views on money as to whether they saw Jack as overly extravagant or just spontaneous. The idea that he is irresponsible is actually not a true character trait, because actually Jack is quite devious, and does have responsibilities because he is a guardian in the country, where he is known as Jack, to Cecily his ward. The previous quote applies to this as well because doesnt want Algernon to find out he has responsibilities as he may come across as boring. While he is actually travelling to the town for pleasure, he tries to cover the fact he has a secret life in the country with what else should bring one anywhere? This acts as a cover because Jack knows that travelling isnt always about pleasure but he tries to fit in with Algernons profligate lifestyle. At many points in the play Jack says things that make the characters he is talking to believe he is someone he is not. This is usually due to the fact he is trying to cover up his lies. There are points when Jack is shown to be demanding. When he travels to the town, in act one, he says to Algernon I simply want my cigarette case back. This shows Jack to be demanding and perhaps impatient. The phrase simple want implies he is impatient as this is the way the line would be performed when on stage. I imagine that the line would be delivered in a snappy way, and Jack would probably look quite angry or uncomfortable. The line is short which would make the audience believe that Jack is short-tempered and the word want adds to this. His demand is polite yet the tone in the actors voice would give away that Jack was actually frustrated. In the conversation that is taking place, Algernon has read the inscription on the cigarette case, which makes it obvious that is belongs to Jack and is from Cecily. Algernon knows Jack as Ernest as this is what Jack calls himself in the town. Algy also knows the cigarette case belongs to Ernest so is confused by the inscription which goes against what he knows. The conversation arouses suspicion with Algy and so he starts questioning Jack (or Ernest as he is known to Algernon at this point). The quote links to this because instead of having a short-temper, he could have appeared impatient because he was anxious about being found out. The actor could show this by being fidgety and looking uncomfortable with the situation. This makes sense because Jack is happy with the way he has two lives, one in the town and one in the country and as no-body likes to be lied to, Algernon and Jack would probably wend up having a fight, and things would probably have to change or Algernon would want to meet Cecily and everything would get confusing, so Jack didnt want him to find out. If this is the case the word simply would be Jack trying to cover the fact he was really anxious to get his cigarette case back without Algy discovering the lies and him trying to sound as casual and calm as possible. Throughout the play, he is very cagey about the secrets and right up until the end, there are still things being discovered. Oscar Wilde sometimes gives the characters lines that just spark the idea with the audience that they are lying. At the beginning Jack says Eh? Shropshire? Yes of course! This gives the idea that Jack is lying about where he has been and where his house in the country it because he sounds confused. He is hesitant to begin with, like he is unsure of what he is talking about, even though, he should be sure. The question marks show the actor would go up at the end of the words, to make it clear it is a question. The actor would also probably have a confused face, while he thinks about what is being said. Jack after giving away slightly that he was lying tries to go back on himself, and cover it up by saying Yes, of course, as if he knew all along. This is a subtle effect used by Wilde, which just triggers the feeling he is being dishonest with the audience. From this point they are then more likely to pick up on other times when he is lying, which adds to both his character and the storyline. Narcissistic is a word that could be used to describe many of the characters but Jack definitely has this characteristic. Wilde makes all the characters self-centred and vain, which is a lot of the reason why the play is a comedy. It adds to the humour because they are only interested in their own lives, so end up clashing because they are unable to understand other people. Wilde shows Jack to have this trait with the line It is very painful for me to be forced to speak the truth. He doesnt realise how much his lying might upset people and hasnt thought about the consequences. All he wants is happiness for him and this links back to the point that he is demanding because he doesnt understand that others may have their own concerns. He has been lying but he doesnt think about how this will affect others just how painful it is for him. It sounds as if he doesnt realise that the lies may hurt others but he understands that it is wrong because he is embarrassed about having to tell them. He doesnt want to admit he has lied because he likes the situation he is in even though it is deceitful. At certain points he can be very hypocritical. He says to Algernon my dear fellow the sooner you give up this silly nonsense the better about his lying and having a double personality. This is hypocritical because Jack also has another personality and identity but this is what he is telling Algy off for! The fact he calls it silly nonsense shows that he recognises that what he is doing is a bit stupid and immature but this doesnt affect his actions because he is benefiting from having two identities because he can get out of things he doesnt want to do. Jack also appears to be romantic throughout the play. He loves Gwendolen and want impress both her and her mother; who wont let them marry. In the first act he appears very romantic when he admits his love to Gwendolen. The character has the line, I have never loved anyone in the world except you. He sounds very charming and this line is likely to surprise and impress Gwendolen. On stage this would probably be a very intense and emotional scene. Gwendolen and Jack are having this secret conversation while Lady Bracknell (Gwendolens mother), is in the other room, so it could be quite rushed or panicky. Later in act one he calls her My own darling which shows he is affectionate, but possible a bit possessive. The fact he calls her darling shows he is affectionate and adoring of her because it is a familiar pet-name. He says my own which is the part that makes him sound possessive because it sounds like she is a possession; an object rather than a woman. This could mean the character is controlling and maybe clingy. He wants other people to know Gwendolen is with him and it could be pride or it could be jealousy and control. Towards the end of the play, in act 3, Gwendolen says I am engaged to be married to Mr. Worthing. This quote makes Jack (Mr. Worthing) appears to be romantic because the couple have stayed together through the action in the play so far, even though they have had opposition. They are still serious about each other, and love each other even though their relationship was frowned upon and challenged by the highly respected Lady Bracknell. She was quite a fierce character so it makes it more likely that Jack and Gwendolen are truly in love, because they are in an unofficial and nonstandard relationship (because of the way they got together), and so should probably not be together but even with Lady Bracknell pressuring them to split up they havent. Their relationship is unusual because in that era, if you wanted to marry a woman you went to her parents first but Jack didnt do this, he went straight to Gwendolen, which must have angered Lady Bracknell as she would have felt protective towards Gwendolen. This proves Jack is romantic because he must have really loved Gwendolen, or at least really wanted to be with her because Lady Bracknell was very powerful and what he was doing, she disapproved of and could have probably done something about. However in the end Lady Bracknell does intervene, but Jack still protests by not allowing Cecily to marry Algernon, Lady Bracknells nephew. This shows a selfish side of Jack; he is stopping someone elses relationship because he cant have his own way. This links back to the idea that he was self centred because if he was selfless than he would let Cecily and Algernon be together because that would make them happy and even though he is upset, they could still continue their relationship, but they cant without his permission. I was in handbag. This is a quote that describes Jacks mysterious past, in which he was abandoned and found in a railway station. This has probably had an impact on his life and character and he may be so self-centred because he felt rejected and feels he deserves to be because his real parents didnt want him and so he gives himself the attention. On stage the conversation would probably be quite awkward because Lady Bracknell is questioning him and he is obviously embarrassed about his part and doesnt want it to come out. It remains quite mysterious (until the end) because he doesnt know who his parents are until it is revealed that his mother is Lady Bracknells sister. Jack is engaged to Gwendolen but that is just one relationship that he has. His best friend is called Algernon and actually turns out to be his brother! He lives in the town but travelled out to the country to find out about Jack. The two characters are in many ways very similar because they are both dishonest and irresponsible. This is shown when Jack says I could deny it if I liked, I could deny anything if I liked because he is implying that he is used to and good at lying and can get himself out of any situation. This is possible not the best thing to say in this situation as he has been found to be lying; by saying this he is implying that he lies all the time. This would only make the characters trust him less and wonder what else he has been lying about. He also sounds a bit cocky and again self-centred because he thinks he can do what he likes, without thinking and he can get away with it. This is a characteristic that he shares with Algy which is possibly why they get on so well. They are both Bunburyists which means they have created another identity to get them out of social meetings that they dont want to take part in! This shows they are both selfish and probably ungrateful because somebody has gone to the effort of inviting them to the event and then they pretend they are busy to get out of it. This is backed up by the quote you have invented a very useful younger brother in order that you may be able to come up to town as often as possible because it explains why Jack ahs created Earnest. Although they get on well on the whole, they sometimes have small disagreements over petty things. In act two they have a disagreement over muffins. How can you sit there, calmly eating muffins, when we are in this horrible trouble is a quote from this argument. They continue arguing over the muffins, but there is an underlying reason for this argument. They are both probably a bit annoyed and nervous as to what is going to happen next because both the women have just found out they are Bunburyists and have gone inside. This has left the men in bad moods and they need to take it out on someone so they have a go at each other over the first thing they can. Though the play is quite light-hearted being a comedy there is a serious message underneath. I believe one symbol of this is the food. It seems to be a key idea carried through the play: the cucumber sandwiches in the first act and muffins and cake and sugar in the second act. I think that the food and gluttony is a representation of other appetites and levels of indulgence. When Jack eats the bread and butter, that is meant for Gwendolen, enthusiastically it is humorous but also could show that he is assuming Gwendolen likes him, and also that he shouldnt like Gwendolen and is being greedy wit his women. This idea is intensified because Algy says you behave as if you were married to her already as if the bread and butter represented Gwendolen. This idea is also present when Cecily and Gwendolen meet in act two and Gwendolen claims Cake is rarely seen at the best houses nowadays. And sugar is not fashionable anymore because it shows Gwendolen is very fussy and very concerned about image and others opinions. This is the same when it comes to men because she was only marrying Jack because she thought his name was Earnest. Wilde uses theses symbols (like the food) and themes to get across his message. The main theme is marriage, both as part of the storyline and as an underlying opinion of Oscar Wilde and his opinions of the people of the era. It soon becomes clear that in the Victorian era money, social class and background are the important things for the upper class to find a partner. This is shown when Lady Bracknell is interviewing potential bachelors for Gwendolen How many bedrooms? . She is clearly thinking about the vale of the property and making sure Gwendolen will have a rich husband who will be able to support her financially. Cecily is very dreamy but Jack is the only one who is a true romantic and although he has fallen for a rich woman wouldnt necessarily want/need a rich woman. The fact that this is a play means that the audience would have to go to the theatre, probably meaning they are quite wealthy, and might not understand the jokes fully because it is about their lifestyle, so it could offend. I think for this reason Wilde made it a comedy so he didnt put people of too much by having a go in a light hearted way. Another message of the play is that all the characters are very similar. If you pick out any line, which doesnt contain a name then a lot of the time it is difficult to know which character said it. This could suggest that Wilde believed the upper class lacked character and individuality. Regularly in the play the characters (especially Gwendolen and her mother Lady Bracknell) appear to lack personality and just seem shallow and only concerned with money and what is fashionable. All the characters are well spoken, and often appear to be being polite well their motives are actually quite malicious. What the Victorians believed about morality is also a source for mock the Victorians for Wilde. Throughout the play there seems to be a set of unwritten moral rules that everyone should obey. For example when Jack finds out Algy has read his cigarette caser he says he thinks reading a private cigarette case is ungentlemanly. Wilde mocks this by making the characters take this to extreme lengths. The whole play is quite satirical and presents a moral paradox due to the fact the title is The Importance of Being Earnest, Earnestness is a quality of being serious and as none of the characters are meant to be this, its satire. What Wilde wants us to see as truly moral is really the opposite of earnestness: irreverence. The fact that the two main male characters lie throughout the play might also be a point that Wilde tries to get across. Both treat life as if it is just a game or a work of art that they can do what they like with. Algy although untruthful, only created Bunbury to travel different places however Jack takes it to another level, by taking on both identities, bothering with costumes when Ernest dies etc. Algy makes up stories that dont harm the others view on truth but Jack acts almost hypocritically. Overall, Jack didnt actually change that much over the course of the action. He starts lying and just lines from the end says it is a terrible thing for a man to find out suddenly that all his life he has been speaking nothing but the truth, so his views have not changed considerably. The plot has not changed his life a huge amount, especially not in a negative way that would prompt change. He has found out he has a brother, but it is his best friend anyway so even though it may change their relationship, its not negative. He temporarily split form Gwendolen but then they got back together so this is not negative and also Lady Bracknell has discovered Jack is her nephew so this is good. This means we will see no reason to change because everything is good and how he wants it to be. Wildes message is clear, and in general I would say he thought the upper class were shallow and self-centred!

Loblaws Annual Report Analysis Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Loblaws Annual Report Analysis - Term Paper Example Such misstatements can arise from either an error or fraud. according to the auditor’s opinion, the consolidated financial statements presented fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Loblaw Companies Limited as at January 1, 2011 and were in accordance with the Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. 3. Loblaw is Canada’s largest grocery retailer and has taken several initiatives to ensure it sustains the environment. They practice sustainable seafood and have set up salmon farms. In order to prevent the detrimental impacts of excessive fishing, Loblaw is committed to sourcing 100% of their sold seafood from sustainable sources by the end of 2013. In addition to this, they have a campaign against the plastic bag consumption in their stores and were successful in reducing 2.5 billion plastic bags since 2007. Moreover, Loblaw gave a gift of $3 million to invest in researching sustainable means of food production. They also have initiated solar energy projects in partnership with Northland Power Inc. to help reduce their carbon footprint. Consequently, they have been awarded accolades and are ranked in top 50 Canadian sustainable companies list. 4. A) According to the matching principle, the company recognizes its revenue at its VIE and corporate stores at the time the sale is made to its customers and also at the time of delivery of its inventory to the associated and franchised stores B) When it comes to fixed assets they are recorded at cost which includes capitalized interest while depreciation starts once the asset has been put into use. The depreciation is recognized on a straight-line basis and is depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset which ranges from 20-40 years for buildings, up to 10 years for building improvements and from 3 to 10 years for equipment and fixtures. C) Goodwill at Loblaw is assessed for impairment at a minimum on an annual basis. It is done by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit to its carrying value. A goodwill impairment charge is recognized to the extent that the carrying value of goodwill exceeds the impaired fair value in operating income. D) The company assesses intangible assets to determine if their useful life is definite and in cases where it is they are amortized over their useful lives up to a maximum of 17 years. The intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are annually assessed for impairment. 5. Loblaw generated a higher profit per dollar of sales in the fiscal year 2010 compared to 2009. This is visible by two ratios namely Gross Profit per sales and Operating Margin. Operating Margin is calculated by dividing the Net Operating Income for a period with the Sales. The Operating Margin increased in 2010 to 4.1% from 3.9% in 2009. This is primarily attributed to the subsequent increase in gross profit and the impact the acquisition of T & T. Likewise, the Gross Profit as a percentage of Sales went up from 23.4% in 2009 to 24.5% in 2010 and was caused by factors such as strong Canadian dollars, improved control label, continued buying synergies and more disciplined vendor management. 6. The interest coverage ratio measures the interest payment of the company compared to its Earnings before Income and Taxes. The greater the Interest coverage ratio the better the chances of the company in paying its debt

READING Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

READING - Assignment Example Of great interest is the position that Kal Raustilia and Chris Sprigman (2012) take, contrary to conventional knowledge and mainstream belief. Raustilia and Sprigman are of the persuasion that it is not possible to quantify losses attributed to piracy and copyright violations and that statistical provisions by proponents of Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) and Protect IP Act (PIPA) which show that copyright infringement costs the US 200 billion dollars and 750,000 jobs annually, cannot be relied upon. Raustilia and Sprigman (2012) cite Tim Lee’s assertion that statistical figures should neither be taken at face value, nor unquestionably relied upon since such figures are almost always prone to approximations, double and triple counting. Raustilia and Sprigman continue that in some instances, music piracy may serve as substitute for legitimate transactions, and that the same can also trigger increased savings, since, instead of money being spent to purchase music, music is downloa ded on the one hand. On the other hand, increased savings may catalyze economically significant initiatives and undertakings, and thereby covering for the supposed loss of jobs and revenue which piracy may have caused. Nevertheless, a critical look at factors that underpin legislation which proscribe the infringement of copyright rules and logical reasoning leave the proposition which Raustilia and Sprigman advance as too impractical to be effected. In the same vein, it is most probable that Raustilia and Sprigman had not thought deeply about the implications that would come with the violation and collective disregard of copyright laws. In the first place, Gorski (2011) illustrates that the need to safeguard creativity and originality defeats the standpoint that Raustilia and Sprigman (2012) advance. It must be realized that the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, Title 17 of the United States Code, the NET Act and the Copyright Act of 1909 do not merely seek to ensure that all who ac cess music buy them, but to actually protect originality and creativity. Always, music is a culmination of training and creativity which are valuable resources. It is preposterous to argue that the training and creativity which an individual uses to earn a living should be treated as valueless. In this case, Raustilia and Sprigman’s proposition that music piracy can help generate financial or economic value does not suffice since such an arrangement alienates the original thinker, creator and director of an original piece from his work. The kind of advancement which Raustilia and Sprigman make is tantamount to robbing Peter to pay Paul, if not worse. In a separate wavelength, it is important to note that legislative pieces such as the Copyright Act of 1909, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, Title 17 of the United States Code and the NET Act are the very provisions which created the existence of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and mandates RIAA to disc harge its duties and responsibilities. RIAA shows clearly that the music industry alone have forfeited millions of dollars to piracy. RIAA further divulges that in 2002, music revenue fell by 7% since the sale of CDs declined from 882 million to 803 million units. The report that RIAA provides in this case may be used to vindicate the statistical provisions that the proponents of SOPA and PIPA advance