Consumerism in America

Consumerism is assumed to be the basic pattern for the modern lifestyle in the USA. Some researchers even compare it with a kind of belief. It is essential to explore the nature of this phenomenon, including its development and the contemporary situation. In addition, it is useful to give a precise definition. Eventually, its consequences and effects are to be put under analysis.Consumerism is multifaceted, resulting in a significant influence on a variety of American life aspects. It is sure to have effects on a particular individual as well as on society as an entity. The â€Å"ideologists† of consumerism state that its principles are highly beneficial for consumers. However, nowadays, the majority of literature dedicated to disclosing the peculiarities of consumerism tends to incline to recognizing the preferably negative character of consumerism consequences for economy, social ethics and even environment etc.Though, the essence of the effects, especially, whether they are adverse or positive, needs a deep exploration. In America it seems that we are driven by the need to have more could this need to have more be fueled by something other than our inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as mentioned in the constitution or, could this need be socially and, commercially driven.Consumerism developed within certain conditions, predetermining the inevitable appearing of such a phenomenon. The Industrial Revolution of the 1800s shifted the way of the economic history. For the very first time, it allowed products to be available in previously impossible huge quantities. Not to mention the fact that the increase in production in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century resulted in growing markets. This meant expanding the consuming class far beyond the middle and upper classes and to include the working classes (Beder, 2004). The population rates grow only three times between 1860 and 1920 while the production increased by 12   to 14 times (Beder, 2004).The major industrial facilities tried to go with the times. That was the reason that back in 1910, Henry Ford instituted the â€Å"line production system† in his Highland Park, Michigan plant (Chandler, 1976). In spite of the innovation being in particular ways relatively unsophisticated, that was the moment of transformation of the U.S. capacity to produce (Ewen, 1976). In addition, the high level of products availability can be easily explained by rapid cost rate decrease. Moreover, the unrestricted access naturally resulted in the flourishing of the Mass Consumption era (â€Å"History of American Consumerism†).The mechanisms of mass production determined the need for markets to become more dynamic. These dynamic changes had to include various aspects. Firstly, they needed to grow horizontally, meaning nationally, secondly, vertically (expanding into such social classes that were not previously among consumers), and, eventually, ideologi cally (Ewen, 1976). The population was forced to be habituated to give a response to the newly developed demands of productive machinery. The researchers emphasize that it was even a nationwide systematic plan aiming at providing the wide masses with more buying power (Ewen, 1976).As the result, the system of consumer production was freely growing. The mass manufacturer could not depend exclusively upon an elite market in order to respond to the productive capacity. Therefore, the products' mass producer was forced to take into consideration the whole United States, ensuring the competitiveness with the other manufacturers by producing enough goods quantity for reducing the cost to the sufficient rate (Ewen, 1976).Nevertheless, the philosophy of consumerism has undergone a number of changes. It was imposed that people are almost obliged to obtain not only necessary goods, but also pay special attention to the other factors. For instance, new model of a particular product has been co nsidered to be more efficient, meaning the need for purchasing the latest configuration (â€Å"History of American consumerism†). Besides, the further changes touched the other criterion as people started buying newer models based on considerations about appearance. Nowadays, the companies tend to seek for increasingly sophisticated tricks in order to encourage consumers to get rid  of the old product and buy the new one instead (â€Å"History of American consumerism†).According to Scott, human nature is more complex to control than a material one (Ewen, 1976). The adequate approach to distribution was and still is (to the significant extend) a guarantee for high level of efficiency and profitability. Therefore, it was a necessity to create an ideological link narrowing the prejudices and covering the traditional social gaps in needs, class, taste or region. Advertising has become an inherent part of mass distribution within industries. Marketing professionals use ad vertisements in order to encourage, or even force people to strive to purchasing certain goods, starting with small, relatively cheap items and ending with luxurious houses and cars.Advertising is a legal tool for manipulating the consciousness of consumers. The camp of advertisement supporters claim that it plays a positive role by providing people with essential information. Though, such statement is quite controversial. Advertising along with mass media industry in general have made a considerable contribution into developing certain rules or norms of consumption within the American society. Such norms depict the sufficient for high standard of living level of consumption.The influence of consumerism concept is in the progress of constant increasing and expanding. The parallels with religious beliefs might be quite reasonable within analyzing the issue. Consumerism has become an inherent part of the contemporary lifestyle. It is worth noticing that alike as the belief consumerism is ephemeral and intangible, still people can perceive its effects in everyday life. It is arguably, but it might be referred as the religion of 20th and 21st centuries (Miles, 1998). To support this statement, Miles emphasizes that it apparently enters the day-to-day life, structuring everyday experience (1998, p.1). Moreover, it is rapidly altering the forms and reasserting the influences in the new spheres (Miles, 1998).Consumerism is the concept depicting the belief that happiness and well-being  depends to a significant degree of personal consumption. Basically, it means that purchasing certain material goods is likely to increase the level of satisfaction with life. The idea includes several layers: firstly, well-being depends on the standard of living, secondly that the key satisfaction in life is centered in consumption and possession of material goods benefit. â€Å"Consuming† as an activity has become one of the most valuable and worth spending time and resources . The principles of consumerist society are developing around the idea of the increasing necessity to consume.This statement can be easily paraphrased into an elementary formula: the more you consume, the better it is for you. To add to the point, the United States is the highly developed country, meaning that the consumerist society evolved to the hyper-consumerist society. The supporting facts are sure to be found in everyday life. The Americans are mostly obsessed with the idea of buying things beyond their basic needs. Certain elements of luxury have gained the perception of necessary for happiness and sufficient standard of life. Moreover, cities are transformed into the centers of â€Å"consumerism religion†. Shopping malls provide people with the enormous quantity of mostly useless goods.The lifestyle dictated by the consumerism concept brings about a variety of adverse effects. It is reasonable to start with the consequences for an individual. Consumerism might dislod ge more valuable thing from the life of Americans. People are mostly concentrated on owning money in order to satisfy the needs imposed by advertisement, mass media industry and the consumerist society in general. The ethical and spiritual part of life, along with socializing might draw back. Moreover, the consumerist society norms might be considered as those restricting the individual freedom to a significant degree. The proclaimed standards engage in bringing to life particular patterns associated with well-being and happiness of the people within a certain framework.In addition, more global long-term consequences refer to economical, social and environmental spheres. For example, environmental sustainability is put under jeopardy as the consumerism stimulates people to buy even bigger quantity of new goods, get rid of  another enormous quantity, meaning that the nature might not be capable of overcoming the severe effects of consumerist society lifestyle. Not to mention the fa ct that manufacturing of certain products needs the nonrenewable natural resources utilizing. The economical layer is also essential as the credit cards and loans, providing the members of consumerist society with an ability to keep up with the prescribed standards, contributed to the development of the economical crisis and credit crunch.Eventually, the conducted research has shown that consumerism is not as beneficial as the mass media industry tends to depict it. Consumerism might be reduced to the concept that constant and increasing consumption of goods is a guarantee for happiness and well-being. The development of such a concept was inevitable due to the economical conditions that started with the Industrial Revolution. The manufacturers are interested in profit growth, it results in a variety and diversity of marketing tricks aimed at stimulating the buyers will and power to consume. Though, the consumerist society provoked the adverse effects of individual and global charac ter.

Generational Diversity Scenarios in the for-Profit and Nonprofit Sectors

In reading both scenarios the generational differences are very clear. In the first situation with Stan and Alex at the Davis Agency the biggest difference was the technological advances that could be under taken to improve process to deal with the client’s needs. Now Stan being an old timer is having a very difficult time trying any new ideas that cut him out of the loop. Even though Alex conferred with Connor (who was very satisfied) on his way of doing a project Stan felt as if Alex was being insubordinate so wrote him up. Unfortunately, when dealing with older individuals that are unwilling to change you will come to an impasse and not be able to best address which way is different or haw the way things are done can be combined in an effort to satisfy both sides. Now in the second scenario you have three different individuals handling a community effort. While all three try to include older members and younger members there always seems to be someone who leaves feeling that their issues or suggestions have fallen on deaf ears. Now Rick is the one who just doesn’t really care about either side he is a busy man and wants the meetings to go without many interruptions from anyone. This way of approaching the planning of this event leaves all that is involved to try and push their ideas through and walk away feeling as if nothing has been accomplished. While Molly teds to try and find out what is on everyone’s mind she tends to alienate the younger generation whereas they feel their input is not needed. Being that the older residents have been there so long they believe they should have the most input with know the most history. Unfortunately, Barbara follows the same type of meeting style as Molly although the meetings never stay on task and nothing seems to be accomplished. In both of these scenarios the older generation feels put off by the younger generation. In addition, it is as if the older individuals feel that they have lived a long life and can’t gain any viable or solid information from the younger generation sustaining that they may actually have something valuable to provide. While looking at the issues both of these scenarios faced one must wonder what things brought forth conflict. Age and length of time within the organization played the biggest part in these conflicts. On both sides the older generation felt that the younger generation was stepping on their toes and disregarding them as unimportant and unknowledgeable. Having been with a company for some 10+ years one tends to get complacent and knows that the way they have been doing things has worked for so long why try something new. In either scenario it would have benefited both organizations to take a look at how processes could be improved by going viral (out on the World Wide Web). Cutting out some of the face to face meetings would allow more time in recruiting client’s (at the Davis Agency) and cutting down on meetings (within the Bay Street Friends). The technological advances while the older generation is afraid that something will go amiss they have to consider their clients and the people they are serving. The numerous people that one is able to reach with the advances would allow business to multiply as well as the number of donations. When dealing with generational diversity and issues one has to always approach with caution. There are various different impacts when it comes to terminating an employee, due to the laws in place and the EEOC one must be sure that the reasons for terminating any employee do not have to do with Race, Age, Sex, or Religion. A company could get into very serious trouble for firing someone due to their age. I believe in the scenario of Stan and Alex the age difference is a problem in the way of thinking and dealing with clients. When Stan wrote Alex up for insubordination it was not because Alex didn’t perform his job exceedingly and abundantly well it was that he circumvented Stan’s procedure to be included and see the project. Now one could say that Alex over steeped his bounds yet we must remember that Connor (now running the company) felt that this was the best way to meet the client’s needs and was very impressed. Both of the scenarios made very valid points for the Veterans and Gen-Xer’s yet they failed to find a common ground that both sides can agree on when trying to generate business or donations. Veteran’s can try to learn from the Gen-Xer’s by not discounting what they say and the Gen-Xer’s can try some empathy with veterans. In addition, the Gen-Xer’s shouldn’t be so quick to discount the veteran’s and what they know, there are some valuable lessons to be learned from the older generation. Although, the older generation has some very valuable input they must be willing to change with the times and allow growth whether it be for profit or nonprofit. The only way either sector can be successful is to utilize the input from both sides and come up with a collaborative effort that each side can be satisfied with.

The Value of Information Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Value of Information - Assignment Example Managers are mostly faced by a were situation where they have to make decisions instantly; hence, it is mostly the case that decision making under uncertainty is mostly the case for decision makers. Imperfect information can largely be ignored in repetitive trials with small effects resulting from errors because the impacts are small, and the result from errors showing that the information could be the waist not for the errors. The other reason for ignoring imperfect information is the inability of the information to have much impact on the probabilities or chances for making the correct decision; hence, they can largely be ignored. The need for first-time success increases the demand for information as a measure of ensuring uncertainty is reduced in making the decision increasing the chances of making the correct decision. Availability of information for decision-making increases the possibility of first-time success by ensuring the decision maker knows the odds between making the correct and wrong decision. To augment the chances of first-time success, the demand for information increases to ensure the ability to make correct decision increases. The demand for information incr eases in first-time success owing to lack of previous data and the high uncertainty associated with first-time success owing to no proven record of accomplishment for decision making. In one-shot large potential loss situations, the information that is commonly available is the payoffs that the decision maker expects to get from a given decision from the highest to the lowest pay off accompanying any.

Terror Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Terror - Personal Statement Example This belief of mine was shattered when one of my friends was badly bitten by a rabid dog and after a few days he died because of the non-availability of appropriate treatment. The incidence occurred when we all were on an educational trip, where we were asked to live and sleep in tents and were exploring out things. My friend was a group leader and therefore he was marching ahead of the crew. Suddenly, while he was passing the stretch of lonely area a rabid dog appeared and my friend out of fear and panic he threw a stone on the dog. The dog turned furious and attacked my friend. We all were in a group and following him as we were behind him. We also got freeze after witnessing the incidence. After the preliminary first-aid, he was immediately rushed to the hospital which was 2 hrs from their place. By the time he reached the hospital it was late and injections were not available in the stock. He was crying in pain and panic and no one could help him to relieve his sufferings except for the first-aid. It is really pity and sad when you see someone dying in front of your eyes and you cannot help. The incidence was enough to inculcate panic and fear in my mind for the dogs.

Module 8 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Module 8 - Essay Example nards, from whence the cryptic prediction came that â€Å"the enemy of Rome will be defeated.† Naturally, Maxentius took this to mean that Constantine, the other Western emperor and who marches against him, will be defeated as the foretold enemy of Rome. Maxentius equated himself to Rome, and his enemy Constantine as the enemy of Rome. From this brief glimpse of Maxentius’ personality, one may deduce that character flaws in the person of the nation’s leader may have a defining impact on the future not only of the leader as an individual, but also upon the nation he leads. The moral ascendancy of the person who stands as father (mother) to an entire nation should be without question, else he would tend to lead his countrymen to perdition (Giovanni Milani-Santarpia, Moral Principles of the Ancient Romans, 2009). In the case of Maxentius, his hubris and tyranny were the causes for his misguided leadership that eventually spelled out the end of his reign as emperor of Rome (Edward Gibbon, Decline and fall of the Roman empire, 1998). This gives us something to think about, particularly in the persons of our own leaders. For instance, many of our political leaders, a former US President, and a leading golf player who served as role model for many aspiring young people, were compelled to admit before the pu blic their illicit relationships with women. If such is the moral fibre of our leaders, then it is time to ask ourselves if the fall of our nation is not too far off. The story of how Christianity became the official religion of 4th century Rome and the world religion it is today has assumed the status of legend. Christianity entailed the worship of an executed Jewish criminal; it was the religion of Jews and slaves. Therefore, its attribution to Constantine, 4th century Roman emperor, stretches the imagination and makes the story more intriguing. Two early Christian narrators tie the conversion of Constantine directly to his triumph in a military campaign

Women politics and rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Women politics and rights - Essay Example Female education refers to the complex set of debates and issues that are related to the education of women across the world at all levels starting from primary to tertiary education. Female education touches on issues of gender equity and equality, access to proper education and how this is connected to the alleviation of poverty that women tend to experience (Chng, 2002). Female education also involves the issues of single-sex education and that of religious education.Most feminist movements have over time promoted the importance of all the issues that are linked to female education making the topic to be wide and making the issues to be narrowly defined by the scholars (Collins, 2009). Female education may include issues like AIDS education that equips the ladies with first-hand information on how to prevent them from being infected and affected by the deadly HIV infection. Although, in some areas, women have made it in education more than their male counterparts, like for instanc e, in the US in 2005/2006, a total percentage of 62 of women obtained associate degrees, 58 percent attained bachelor's degrees, 60 percent masters and 50 percent got their doctorate degrees. Again, the education of women with disabilities has also improved with time (Mettler, 2000). There have been calls to improve the level of education of the girl child because it has demonstrated an ability to have clear effects on the economy and the general health of young women and it improves the prospects of the women’s’ community.

Explanation Graphic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Explanation Graphic - Essay Example he current method of registering students, the new system will be able to register students in the appropriate class and provide access on the start date of the course. This will be much easier than the current process, as a sales person register a student, and the IT person has to configure a lab machine for the students use. The registration will save administrative work, and provide a lower production cost while providing better quality. The system will provide a friendlier login process for the students. With the new system, integration will occur through the student portal, making it easier for the student to connect to a virtual lab machine, without having to use additional logon information throughout the duration of the course (Rijlaarsdam et al 9). Students will also find it easier to register for future courses and also see and previous courses they have attended. The lab machine will be automatically available on the start date of the course, and can undergo automatic extension for an additional 30 days access with a simple click of a button. Students now can convert into other classes efficiently, unlike the current method. The communication plan helps in setting up standards for communication. The project leader would need to establish the standards within which the communication will occur. The stakeholders would also need to be aware of the course of the communication with the indication of how and when it will take place. The communication plan enables the project leader to set the scope for all the communications that are relevant to the project. The communication plan is also significant for scheduling various projects, within a period, thereby making the stakeholders to be aware of the progress. According to Schriver’s model, the graphic is efficient in proper management of time since it offers the option of a search engine (Rijlaarsdam et al 9). Time saving is important in any project management especially when there is need to achieve a

Script and Analysis of Videotaped Lesson Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Script and Analysis of Videotaped Lesson - Essay Example er: What's 1minus 0; that turns into one that is a whole different problem, one function, two functions, right, use your theorem, constant over _ powered, one over 0 is 1, so what they actually do is they use what is called the squeeze theorem ok, that takes function, it's two outside function, one is a function and it squeezes it in between, that's what we just did, squeeze it in between Student: You didn't go over that yesterday Teacher: Yes, I didn't say Allison is like... Aren't we in a boring class Student: Is this the first class you have gone to today or did you just finish Teacher: I had a IEP meeting but it just finished Student: What's and IEP meeting Teacher: Individual Educational Plan Student: Inaudible Teacher: Inaudible Student: why do you have to go to an IEP meeting Teacher: You just, you always have to, once a year Student: Inaudible. What does once doYou'll be reprimanded Teacher: don't worry about it, if you're not all in, don't worry about it, you'll never have to go Student: InaudibleCause like, we won't be smart Teacher: Here's the next function, Inaudible, I got the sin of 0, what is the sin of 0 Student: Zero Teacher: and we're done Student: That's stupid Teacher: What's stupid about it, it's easy Student: that means it's not stupid, its easier to do Teacher: I can make it harder for you Jessie Student: Yea, just for Jessie Teacher: Yea there is 23, I plug infinity and I need Infinity, uh, one is infinity and one is undefined, we have to do something, what's our highest counter here Student: x over one Teacher: x, so one over x, we divide everything by x, you know this one Student: zero Teacher: that's zero, plus this will cancel it, 2 that's the bottom, put infinity here what do we get Student: zero Teacher: so zero divided by 2 is Student:... Teacher: ok, so what happens is you use what's called the squeeze theorem, that's, we squeeze in this function and between 2 other functions to figure out the answer, okay, its called di-estimate, but we have to get this function to look like this function so we divide it by everything by Teacher: What's 1minus 0; that turns into one that is a whole different problem, one function, two functions, right, use your theorem, constant over _ powered, one over 0 is 1, so what they actually do is they use what is called the squeeze theorem ok, that takes function, it's two outside function, one is a function and it squeezes it in between, that's what we just did, squeeze it in between Teacher: If you even knew how bad I was when I first studied chapter one, I got a C+, and I may have copied off of my friend, and I never take calculus again, never in the world, never for the life of me did I think I would actually teach this stuff Teacher: alri

Topic of ur choice Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Topic of ur choice - Dissertation Example Similarly the change in tastes of different people also brings about needed confusion. Luxury commodities around the world are taken to be those products which are priced highly above the average limits and reflect a very high standard of quality and designs embedded into it. The position of the luxury brands thus created should be made secured from the entries of average purchasers through the setting of high prices. Furthermore a sustainable approach to luxury brand management as with any brand is spontaneous innovation of its product and service quality to make the brand become the test of times (Principles of Luxury Brand Management, n.d.). Aims and Objectives Aims The main aim of the research paper centers on understanding the management pattern of the global luxury brands. It also aims at understanding the shift in the management styles of these companies with changing market and economic situations. Objectives To understand the management styles of luxury brand companies. To r eflect on the changes in management styles of such companies. To interpret the reasons for such changes. Endeavoring to present a practical study of such change in management styles through the use of case study. ... To this end, Quelch (2007) observes that the company should look forward to render a holistic approach of quality enhancement in the different product categories. In terms of design the brand must eke out a distinguishable factor which would work as the brand identification strategy amidst its various competitors. Quelch (2007) further states that the management of luxury brands around the world also focuses on restricted production activities to excite high consumer demand. The art of marketing the luxury brands signify the incorporation of the emotional element with the products of the brand to create a customer appeal for it. Personification of the brand is highly essential to reflect its uniqueness amidst other brand players competing in the same market. The marketing strategy must also highlight the region to which the brand belongs to. In total the management function of international luxury brands is carried out depending mainly on four different aspects viz. management of the product assortments of the luxury companies, managing the uniqueness in its design and communication patterns, managing the interaction of the company with its several customers and finally the management of the company’s distribution channels. Elucidating the above points, Quelch (2007) states that the management of the product lines of luxury companies earns considerable importance for setting high quality designs at reduced quantities. This is because the style and patterns of luxury commodities go on changing with changes in consumer perception of such items. Hence a focus must be rendered in sustaining its profitability in the light of increase in the production costs. Thus increase in the quantity of brand assortments and also in the sizes of individual

Australia study (social and political cultures) Essay

Australia study (social and political cultures) - Essay Example The phrase â€Å"ANZAC traditions† has its roots firmly in the First World War when the mother country called for troops from its colonies in order to fight the war. The combined forces of Australia and New Zealand were better known as the ANZACs or the Australian and New Zealand Corps. In battle the soldiers from the ANZAC division showed remarkable bravery and determination to win the war. Over time within the war years the ANZAC tradition came to denote the very characteristics that defined these soldiers namely their courage, good humour, mateship, endurance, ingenuity and larrikinism (Howe, 1995). This tradition meant that the soldiers from the ANZAC division were perceived impervious to the class and cultural differences found in British society. This phrase not only has meaning in connection to the First World War alone but can be seen as a defining moment for Australian national history. Previously Australians perceived themselves as subjects of the mother country but following the social and cultural consolidation after the First World War, the Australians begun to see themselves as a separate nation. Even today this phrase is used to indicate the nascent years of Australian nationhood (Smith, 2006). In a similar manner, the word mateship has come to symbolise Australian culture over time. As seen in the preceding phrase, the ANZAC tradition one of the defining features of the Australian soldiers was mateship (McDonald, 2009). Mateship refers to an embodiment of equality, friendship and loyalty. There has been rampant debate as to the origins of mateship as a word in common use. Some texts have inaccurately traced the origins of mateship to the early convicts who were settled in Australia when it was treated as a penal colony. However other research has conclusively proved that the word mateship emerged out of the predominantly Irish working class that was present in British society. Nineteenth century Australia

The Best Thing Ever Essay Example for Free

The Best Thing Ever Essay Victoria McQueen Doctor-Assisted Suicide is it Right or Wrong? Suicide in all shapes and forms is wrong. There are so many reasons to fight and keep hope, taking the life of yourself or having a doctor assist you with taking your life is absurd. Having the gift of life is exactly that; a gift. Taking something so precious that some people don’t even have the option to is a terrible thing. No matter what you believe or what other people believe there has and always will be a plan for you, if you are alive right now you’re not done with your plan. Getting to choose when you want to die is not right, not when there are people struggling to stay afloat. I think that having the capability to have a doctor assist you in suicide is a terrible idea and I am against it. Depression is a difficult thing that hits Americans today; with our issues on body image, and stress from work and keeping and job and then still coming home to a family has become more challenging for people today. There are people who get depressed and wish to take their lives. If it is that important for them to end their lives I am sure they could find a way. Then there are the people who come to the doctors who try and have them help them with it. Its almost as if they are looking for an â€Å"Okay† from someone to end their life because they have a belief system that frowns upon suicide or something like that. If it’s in the cards for you I am sure you can get through it. You should not think that taking your life is the way to do it. The doctors who are involved in situations like this should have restrictions and guidelines that a person has to follow before even mentioning this option because for this task to even be brought up and seem okay would be wrong. Life gets hard we all know this, you hit rock bottom go through some tough spots but it’s up to you to pick up your boot straps and move on. I think there are certain moments when the doctor-assisted suicide should be ok but they have to be under very strict guidelines because someone having the ability to pick and choose when they want to die is just ridiculous. I think if you elect to have a doctor assisted suicide you should have to create a relationship with the doctor and you should be ask more than once if this is what you really want so there are no chances in making a mistake. In the event you have a disease that requires a cure; what if that very next day or even very next hour they find that cure you just gave up on everything you were fighting for after so long. Giving up on life when you cannot handle it anymore is something that no one should get to decide. Some people live the easy life but in rare cases life gets incredibly hard; paraplegia when you have no use of your limbs. Locked-In Syndrome; you have no use of anything just your brain so you are basically stuck in your body sometimes you can use your eyes to communicate. ALS you lose control of all voluntary muscle movement. These are the moments when someone is suffering that I believe that you should have other options rather than just wasting away locked in your own mind and body. There are other terminal illness that occur where keeping a person as happy as possible and keeping them comfortable becomes very hard. Cost of living is expensive for one then you have the price of round the clock nurses among all the pain medicine that has to be purchased so pain can be managed. There are so many jobs that have to be fulfilled to keep a person happy but how long can that last, unless you are rich and can have whatever you want. Take for instance, Stephen Hawking; he is a rich man but after everything he has been through he continues to fight and it’s not some measly little fight to get through the days he is still so adamant about research and the things he continues to do today. He continues to impress people and wants to keep doing things with his life. Having the will to push on and pursue great things no matter what’s going on is very admirable. Reasons that doctor assisted suicide is wrong is there are also faiths and beliefs and hopes that people have been living by and making it okay to end a life for the fact that it got too hard for someone is not right. With that being said I am against physician-assisted suicide, unless there are dire emergencies and the person is suffering beyond belief. We all have different levels of suffering some people can last longer than others in dealing with that but we should also be able to recognize when a person is really suffering and we should do anything in our power to help a person maintain comfortably and allowing them not to suffer.

International Franchising Advantages and Disadvantages

International Franchising Advantages and Disadvantages Introduction Buying a Franchise offers many benefits over starting a business on your own. The franchisees benefit from the training and ongoing support that they receive whilst trying to make their business successful. People starting a business on their own often have no help or guidance in the day to day running of the business! The franchisees receive guidance on location, fixtures and fittings, marketing and operation of the business model. This guidance is based on years of experience the franchiser has gained not only from running the business model but also from advising other franchisees. Buying a franchise business is at least a five year commitment and as such should not be taken lightly. It is important to make the right lifestyle choice rather than basing the decision to buy purely on profitability of the business model. A prospective franchisee should always look at the market trends to ascertain whether the need and requirements of the products of the franchise opportunity are predicted to grow or decline over the medium and long term. Getting advice from an experienced accountant can help in this respect. What makes the franchisers products better than the competition? Is the franchisor continually investing in improving the products to reflect changes in latest trends and requirements of the customers? Analysing which products have been changed and new ones introduced over the last five years will help in this regard. The territory is just as important as the franchise model. Not all franchises work in all territories as each area has their demographics and buying patterns. Decent knowledge of the local area is invaluable and the choice of which type of franchise business to buy should be made with regards to this information. Making the right choice of franchise that is based on individual skills as well as the individual requirements of each particular territory should serve to ensure that the business model works both in the short term and the long term International Franchising International franchising refers to a domestic businesss expansion into foreign countries and markets. International franchising is a complex process that requires thorough considerations of many factors, such as feasibility, adaptability, and benefits versus risks. Replication: During the process of international franchising, companies often strive to replicate successful domestic business models in foreign markets. Challenge: Differences in language, laws and financial systems, between franchising business and host foreign market can pose serious challenges during international expansion. Benefits: International franchising means new markets with new customers and selling potentials. International franchising also places companys name and presence in a global market. Adaptability: learning to adapt to the needs and demands of a new foreign market can attract local customers and buyers and lead to higher business success in a new country. Counsel: International franchising experts help companies understand a foreign market before expansion. Consultants advise businesses on a number of subjects, from financing to culture gaps. Advantages: There is a higher likelihood of success since a proven business formula is in place. The products, services, and business operations have already been established. Bankers usually look at successful franchise chains as having a lower risk of repayment default and are more likely to loan money based on that premise. The corporate image and brand awareness is already recognized. Consumers are generally more comfortable purchasing items they are familiar with and working with companies they know and trust. Franchise companies usually provide extensive training and support to their franchisees in effort to help them succeed. Many times products and services are advertised at a local and national level by the main franchise companies. This practice helps boost sales for all franchisees, but individual franchisees dont absorb the cost. Disadvantages: Franchises can be costly to implement. Also, many franchises charge ongoing royalties cutting into the profits of franchisees. Franchisors usually require franchisees to follow their operations manual to a tee in order to ensure consistency. This limits any creativity on the part of the franchisee. Franchisees must be very good at following directions in order to maintain the image and level of service already established. If the franchisee is not capable of running a quality business or does not have proper funding, this could curtail success. Sometimes franchisors may be lax on their commitment to support the franchisee. Also, they may make poor decisions that would have an ill effect on the franchisee. Therefore, it is important to research any franchise concept thoroughly before signing any agreements. Benefits on International Franchising Purchasing a franchise is one way for an entrepreneur to get started in business. Franchises offer a proven business model to follow as well as support in areas like financing and training. International franchises can provide the opportunity to take advantage of growing global markets, although the franchisee will need to overcome the hurdles associated with adapting to the ways of a new country. Cultural Adaptation Franchises provide the business owner with a full range of support services. This proves beneficial when it comes to adapting to the ways of a foreign country. The company can help you hire local management and workers who are familiar with the methods of doing business in the country, which can make the transition much smoother. Business Expansion If you already own an established franchise and are looking to expand, adding units in another country can provide a more profitable alternative to an already saturated market. This is particularly meaningful if you sell a product or service that is rather common in your home country. Cornering the Market You may even be fortunate enough to open a franchise in a country where there is little competition and there is a great need for your product or service. This will enable you to corner the market and possibly open several locations, establishing you as the leader in your business before the inevitable entrance of competitors occur. Change of Lifestyle Owning a franchise in another country can result in a new and exciting way of life. Franchisees from a cold climate may relish the opportunity to move to a warm, sunny locale to open a business. Some may also look forward to expanding their horizons by experiencing and assimilating into a new culture. Taking Advantage of Growth If current franchisees are experiencing slow business due to the home countrys stagnant economy, they can seek to open another unit in an area experiencing strong growth. Countries and areas exhibiting growth as of 2010 include China, Latin America and the Middle East. Advantages of international franchising Franchising is a unique form of business arrangement. The original company (called the franchisor) enters into a contract with a second business (called the franchisee) in which the original company offers the second business the right to operate under the original businesss name and the right to sell its product. The franchisor usually offers guidance and expertise to the franchisee. All of this is done for a fee, and though having a franchise isnt the same as starting a business from scratch, there are a number of advantages to the system. This is also true for international franchises. Reputation The major benefit of a franchise is that franchises reputation. If a franchise is well known for offering a certain type of product or service and a new branch of that franchise opens up locally, then people know roughly what to expect. For international franchises there are some additional issues of reputation to consider. For instance, the country of origin that the franchise comes from could be viewed as exotic, which will bring in additional business. Financing Franchises are viewed as a business plan thats already undergone a trial by fire and succeeded. Generally speaking, this makes them much easier to finance, as far as getting loans from banks is concerned. If a franchises reputation and success can be clearly shown, then the bank knows the franchisee has a much better chance of succeeding than he would if he were trying to start up a new and independent business. This is even truer for companies that are known internationally, which makes banks feel even more generous when it comes to assisting with business financing. Support Regardless of whether or not the franchisee sets up in the franchises hometown or on the other side of the world, an international franchise has the capability of extending support, advice and training to franchisees. The franchise offers training manuals, access to supply networks, advice and other forms of help to the franchisees. This is especially true where an international franchise is concerned, because every franchisee impacts the franchises reputation and reach. If all of the franchisees do well, then it will increase the franchises reputation, reach and even their brand recognition. Franchising primary benefit is risk minimization. Starting a new business is risky. Most studies show that over 90 percent fail within three years. The primary reason that the failure rate is so high is because the owners have to go through the learning curve of operating that specific type business. Franchising reduces that curve substantially. Another reason to buy a franchise is that a franchise investment can be thoroughly researched before any significant expenditure is made. Existing franchisees offer a wealth of information about the business so that new franchisees can try the business on before they buy to make sure its a good fit for them. Franchisers sell a defined, proven business format or method of operation, offering a product or service that has sold successfully. An independent business is based on both an untried idea and operation. The experience of the franchisers management team increases the potential for success. This experience is often conveyed through formal instruction and on-the-job training. Franchisees can often buy lower-cost goods and supplies through the franchiser, resulting from the group purchasing power of all the franchises. Established franchisers offer national or regional name recognition. While this may not be true with a new franchiser, the benefit of starting with one is the potential to grow as its business and name recognition grow. Franchising provides a uniform system of operation, so that consumers receive uniform quality, efficiently and cost-effectively. A uniform system brings with it the advantages of mass purchasing power, brand identification, and customer loyalty, capitalizing on the proven format. A franchiser also provides management assistance, including accounting procedures, personnel and facility management. An individual with experience in these areas may not be familiar with how to apply them in a new business. The franchiser helps a franchisee overcome this lack of experience. Franchisors help franchisees develop a business plan. Many elements of the plan are standard operating procedures established by the franchisor. The most difficult part of a new business is its start-up, since even experienced managers lack the knowledge to set up a new business. One of the biggest benefits to franchising is marketing. The franchiser can prepare and pay for the development of professional advertising campaigns. Regional or national marketing done by the franchiser benefits all franchisees. In addition, the franchiser can provide advice about how to develop effective marketing programs for a local area through a cooperative marketing fund, to which the franchisees contribute a percentage of their gross income. Its possible to receive assistance in financing a new franchise through the franchiser, who often makes arrangements with a lending institution to lend money to a franchisee. The franchisee must still accept responsibility for the loan, but the franchisers involvement usually increases the likelihood that a loan will be approved. A franchiser also provides training for the franchisee. This is especially important if the concept is complex. The best training combines classroom or one-on-one training at the franchisers facility with field training at the franchisees place of business. Finally, franchising has found a solid economic niche that caters to specialized needs. Many American consumers no longer want a muffler installed by a service station, a hamburger from a diner, a pizza from someone who wont deliver it within 30 minutes or their hair cut by a local barber. Specialists, it seems, do it better, and the franchise industry is only too willing help. Once you become a franchisee and part of a franchise organization, What are your roles and responsibilities? Financial The first function you have in your new endeavour is as an investor into your business. You will need to invest financially with an initial franchising fee, but also be prepared to pay any additional costs that might be necessary to get the business up and running such as equipment costs. Also, there will be ongoing royalty fees that you will need to be aware of. Time Secondly, you will need to be sure that you can invest an adequate amount of time in the business. Although the system is basically set up in franchising, you will still need to initially spend extra time learning how the system works. The franchisor usually offers training and continuous support, hence the ongoing royalty payments. Like anything else, once you know the ins and outs of the system, the time investment decreases somewhat. Leadership and Partnership One of the most important skills you need to possess as a franchisee is the ability to be pro-active and take initiative. You should be able to easily assume a leadership role. You need to be certain that you understand how the entire system works and not be afraid to ask the franchisor questions. It is especially important to communicate with the franchisor anything that you notice that doesnt seem right to you. After all, you are basically assuming a partnership role with the franchisor. Therefore, you should be able to work together, share ideas, and resolve issues together. You may notice something that the franchisor was not aware of since you are much closer to the business. The franchisor would probably appreciate your bringing concerns or discrepancies to the table, especially if you offer possible solutions. Communication With all of the responsibilities that the franchisee holds, communication and organizational skills are key skills to possess as a franchisee. As mentioned, it is important to keep in close communication with your franchisor. In addition, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with your customers, employees, vendors, and other business contacts. Furthermore, it can be quite beneficial to team up with other franchisees on a regular basis. It can help you run your business more smoothly if you share ideas and solutions to problems experienced with others in the same capacity. Organization In your role as franchisee, you should be prepared to wear many hats. In operating the business, you will most likely have to manage all the daily operations involved in operating a business, including ordering supplies, meeting with customers and vendors, preparing payroll, resolving discrepancies, etc. These are just a few of your sub-roles depending on the type of business you are running. It is essential to be able to organize all of your responsibilities so that everything gets done accurately and in a timely manner. In conclusion, as long as you understand your role as a franchisee and make every effort to carry it out thoroughly, you should be able to manage a successful franchise.

Characteristics of System Modules

Characteristics of System Modules Identify and report the names , purpose and characteristics of system modules such as mother board, power supply, CPU, Memory modules, storage devices, display devices, adaptor cards, ports and cases in the given machine.(10 marks) Name: Mother Board (P4-GA-EP45T-UD3LR {775/DDR3} w/Sound+LAN) Purpose: The purpose of mother board is to guide the computer do computations. It has buses, or electrical pathways to allow data to travel between the various components that include in a computer and it have two-chip layout that can perform with lower power consumption. Characteristics: It is the basic system of the electronic circuit of computer and all the components for the computer system are glued on it with its various slots and connectors. Moreover, CPU, panel connector slots, memory cards, the adapter cards, DDR slots, AGP, AMR and PCI slots, north and south bridges are glued on it. The back panel ports stick through the back of the case. fig 1.1 Motherboard Name : Power Supply ( ATX power supply with 550W ) Purpose: The purpose of power supply is to deliver electrical power for every connector in the system board and its expansion converter of AC current voltage to DC current voltage. Characteristics: power supply is the converter of AC current voltage to DC current voltage and it has 24 pin or 20 pin and 4 pin. Power supply of 24 pin and 20 pin is to provide motherboard and 4 pin auxiliary is for CPU fan. Name: CPU (Intel Core 2 Duo 2.93GHz {3 MB / 1066 / 775 LGA Socket}) Purpose: The CPU, the brain of the computer, is to receive data from user and it reads, interprets informations and executes commands. Characteristics: In a PC, the CPU uses its ALU (Arithmetic/Logic Unit) to carry out mathematical operation and it can change location data in memory to another address fig1.2_CPU Name : Memory Modules( DDR2 RAM 2GB 240pin 800 MHz Kingston ) Purpose: It enables computers to work faster because all the information processed by the CPU is written or read from memory, Characteristics: Memory module is a board used to refer to a series of dynamic random access memory integrated circuits modules mounted on a printed circuit board and designed use in personal computers, workstations and servers. Name : Storage Devices (such as Floppy, Hard disk, Tape, CD, DVD drives) Purpose: It can save data permanently from temporary data storage by optical and magnetic methods. Characteristics: Major magnetic devices (floppy disks, hard disks, and tape) are rigid disks that are permanently sealed in a non-removable, vacuum- tight portion of the drive unit. With the optical media (CDs, DVDs), data is stored digitally on a light-sensitive material by a powerful, highly focused a laser beam. Name : Monitor (19 LCD Color Monitor(View Sonic wide view 1932 wm with DVI+LED) Purpose: Monitor is the device to display the videos and graphics information generated by the computer through the video card Characteristic: Monitors are similar to televisions but display information at much higher quality. There are two kinds of monitor. They are CRT (Cathode ray tube) and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).LCD monitors are much thinner, and less power consumptions than CRT monitors Name : Adaptor Cards Purpose: is to enable our computer to communicate with another peripherals such as monitor Characteristics: Motherboard Graphic Adaptors are low cost flat panel display interface card to use on board. Name : Ports Purpose: It is used to connect with electrical devices that need for personal computer system. Characteristics: It is the place where the devices needed to insert in motherboard for a computer. And there are many ports on following. Ports Name Pins Inserted Particles PS 2 6 pins Key Board, Mouse Serial 9 pins modem, mouse, joystick Parallel 25 pins printer VGA 15 pins monitor USB 4 pins mp3, memory sticks, etc. RJ 45 8 pins use to connect with network Name : Cases Purpose: It is the box or tower which can enclose the main components of a computer such as motherboard, power supply, drives and many peripherals. Fig 1.3- System unit and Casing Characteristics: Cases are usually constructed from steel, aluminium or plastic is sometimes used. And it is the largest component in computer system. Tower cases come in mini, mid and big towers and intended to stand on the floor. There are the capacities for CD-ROMs, floppy disk, hard disk drives. I/O ports can insert in back panel shield. Moreover, Cases are more than 14 inches tall. Task 1 b) Identify the names, purposes and performance characteristics of the standardized peripheral ports in the machine such as Serial, USB, Firewire, DB, RJ, Din, Mini-DIN, Centronics, Associated cabling and their connectors.(10 marks) Fig1.b Name: Serial Port(9 pin) Purpose: It is to provide a standard connector and protocol to let our attach devices, such as modems, to our computers Performance characteristics: It is the basic external connections to a computer and Integral part of most computers. The serial port completely in support of USB connections, most modems still use the serial port, and in some printers, PDA and digital cameras. Name: Parallel Port Purpose: It is to connect the PC with printer, external CD drives, Zip drive, external hard disk drive, or tape backup device. Performance characteristics: The parallel port can sends data simultaneously over 8 data lines at speeds of12,000 Kbps. Name: USB (Universal Serial Bus) Port Purpose: It can allow data to transfer between electrical devices and supply electrical power to that devices from cable without own power source. Performance characteristics: USB port is depended on by some devices to get power or charge their battery. Moreover, USB for connecting on personal computers and equipments such as network adapters, broadband and cellular modems for Internet access and USB printers to be shared on a home network. Name: Firewire Purpose: FireWire is to connect data storage devices to anything from TVs or even professional Video recording apparatus because of its high data transfer rate, its perfect for transporting video and digital playback device to a digital recording device. Performance: FireWire can provide more power than USB 2.0 and can deliver data faster. And most satellite TV and digital receivers for cable have a Firewire output and this port can recorded programming to a PC in its original MPEG2 format. Fig: 1b.1for FireWire on popular digital cable terminal used today. Name: DB Purpose: Data Bus is connections between and within the CPU, Memory, and many peripherals that used to carry data. Performance: There are 2 types of data bus, they are data bus and address bus. The data bus is the media that transfer data and address bus transfer information about where the data should go and let to be transferred data faster. Name: RJ (Registered Jack) Purpose: It is the port for twisted pair cable called LAN (local area networks), especially Ethernet or RJ-45 that can link with MODEM or Ethernet Switch. And Modem RJ-11 connectors are also to connect some types of LANs with modems. Fig 1b.2 RJ-45, RJ-11 and Ethernet switch Performance Characteristics: RJ-45 looks similar to RJ-11 that used for telephone equipment, but RJ-45 are a bit wider than RJ-11. Moreover, RJ-11 is connector that has a four or six wire connectors that used to connect telephone equipment. Name: Din Purpose: It is used in AT style of computer. DIN connectors held in place by the friction of the connector body and by pins. And it is used in PC keyboards, MIDI instruments, and etc. Performance characteristics: DIN connectors are round, with pins arranged in a circular pattern. Name: Mini-Din Fig. 1b.3 Purpose: It is the another type of DIN connector Performance: MINI-Din connectors are 9.5 mm in diameters and come in seven patterns that in the form of number of pins from 3 to 9. Name: Centronics (printer port) Purpose: Centronics port shows the bi-directional version of the port, which allows the transmission and reception of data bits at the same time. Performance Characteristics: It has 36 pin connector to connect the PC with printer. That can flow data with maximum 4 megabytes per second for faster printing and back channel status and management. And new standard of Centronics port can connect scanners, tape drives, Hard disks, computer networks adapters and other devices. Task 2 List the 3 most popular types of mother boards, their components and their architecture (6 marks) Types of motherboards XT (Extended Technology) AT (Advanced Technology) ATX (Advanced Technology Extension) The components include in motherboard are The CPU, the busses, Chipsets (controllers), sockets, connectors, etc Architecture of motherboard The motherboard is a board covered with electronics and it is just a big plastic sheet which is full of electrical conductors. And the conductors (tracks) run across and down, and in several layers in order to connect all the individual components, and transfer data between them. The cabinet and the motherboard are made to satisfy each other, so there are holes in the metal for the connectors mounted on the board. Finally, the motherboard has to be linked to the PCs power supply installed in the cabinet. b) Identify the purpose of CMOS memory in your PC and list out what it contains. Describe how and when it is necessary to change the CMOS parameters (6 marks) The purpose of CMOS in PC CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) is situated in BIOS chip It requires very little power and it can be powered by a small battery thats integrated into the motherboard hold data It will be automatically recharges while the computer is on. CMOS MEMORY contains Standard CMOS Setup Program BIOS Features Setup Program Power Management Program PNP/ PCI Configuration Program Load BIOS Defaults Program Load Setup Defaults Program Looking about Integrated Peripherals Supervisor Password User Password IDE Hard Disk Drive Auto Detection Hard Disk Drive Low Level Format Save and Exit Setup Program Exit Without Saving Program CMOS Parameters can be changed in CMOS Setup Program and this program can be entered by pressing the DEL or F2 key continuously during the Window Program is started to run. In Most Motherboards that have jumper which allows the user to return to the default CMOS setting configured by the manufacturer in CMOS restore to factory defaults. This is useful because when you cannot enter the CMOS Setup Program because of the incorrect CMOS setting or Lost CMOS Setup password. So, that make sure the power is completely off when you shorten the jumper. c) You are required to use two different types of Printers and list the following information derived from each printer: i) What are the printer technologies, interfaces and options for upgrades available for your printers (4 marks) ii) What are the 2 common printer problems which you can expect from our printers, list our remedies for the problems using appropriate references? (4 marks) Two different types of Printers are Serial Printer Page Printer In Serial Printers, Two Groups can be categorized as follow: Impact Printers (Using Ribbon) -Dot Matrix Printers b) Non- Impact Printers (Using Toner Cartridge) -Thermal Printers -Ink Jet Printers In Page Printers, Non Impact Printers Laser Printers (Mono chrome, Color laser) Interfaces Of Printer: It is a collection of hardware and software that allows the printer to communicate with a computer. It can make some printer more flexible in multiplatform environment. If the printer has several interfaces, it can usually exchange between them on the fly so that several computers can print at the same time. Reference from: A+ Fast Pass written by David Groth Options for Upgrade: Resolution Of Printer can be measured as DPI (dots per inches) Printer Buffer Two Common Printer Problems Paper Jam Cause of Toner drum on laser printers Remedies for Printer Problems If the is jammed, the first work is to pull out any remnants. Even the smallest piece of paper could cause the problem so check your printer carefully. If the problem is related with toner cartridge, check to see your printer toner cartridge that is empty or low. So, the solution is to refill the toner to your laser printer and this problem is depending on time and you must check once a year for your printer. Moreover, the major problem is the ink will dry out in the small nozzles and block if they are not use at least once a week. Task 3 For this task and subsequent task you need to set up a small Windows XP network using at least 3 computers. Produce a report with appropriate screen capture evidencing your practical work and covering the following information: Identify the types of network cables, their characteristics and the connectors which you will use for the network.(5 marks) Types of Network Cables Characteristics Connectors that use for the network Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable It consists of several pairs of wires twisted in the insulated jacket and found in 10/100 Base T Ethernet networks. Topology: Star RJ 45 Coaxial Cable (RG) Suitable for most LANs communications that consists of copper wire sealed by insulation and metal foil shield Topology: Bus RJ 58 (use for 10base2 (Thinnet) Ethernet),RJ 8(use for 10base5 (Thicknet) Ethernet), Fiber Optic Cable A thin, flexible glass fiber covered by rubber coating and provides transmission speed from 100 Mbps up to 1 Gbps and a maximum distance of several Miles. Topology: Star ST/SC ST a barrel-shaped connector SC- square type connector Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable 10 Mbps to 2 Gbps for Ethernet, 16 Mbps for Token Ring Topology: Star or Ring RJ 45 for Ethernet, IDC/UDC for Token Ring (IDC-IBM data connector, UDC-Universal Data Connector) Research and list five different technologies available for Internet connectivity for your network and list their strengths and weaknesses. (10 marks) 5 different technologies for Internet Connectivity DIAL-UP Dial up internet uses a modem and dial-up networking (DUN) in Window to establish a connection between a PC and an Internet Service Provider (ISP). It uses standard telephone lines and ties up the phone while it is operating. Dial-up speed is limited to between 52 Kbps and 56 Kbps. ISDN (Integrated Service Digital Network) it is a special type of phone line that is able to carry data faster than a regular dial-up. It also has a separate voice channel, so you can place voice calls while connected to the Internet. It requires special phone lines from the phone company. ISDN is a dial up connection and uses dial up networking. However, it establishes the connection much more quickly than a standard dial-up, usually within 5 seconds. ADSL (Asymmetric digital subscriber line) It enables Internet using existing copper wired telephone networks. It uses the main concept of DSL technology and it works by splitting the existing telephone line signal into two: one for voice and the other for data. ADSL is asymmetric as it uses most of the channel to transmit downstream to the user and only a small part to receive information from the user. http://homepages.uel.ac.uk/u0113650/DSLBASICS.html FIBER CONNECTION It can transfer data via light waves. And data transmission is incredibly fast. They are made from glass or plastic fibers in the core of the cable surrounded by a cladding layer (designed to reflect light back towards the core) and a buffer coating, BROADBAND internet access Broadband has a high rate data transmission and minimum speed that users can get is 256 Kbps. Broadband uses lower-bitrate transmission methods. Broadband technologies supply double rate than Dial-up modems and generally without disrupting telephone use. Strengths and Weaknesses for Internet Connectivity Kinds that use for Internet Connectivity Strength for using this technology Weakness for using this technology Dial-up . Cheapest type of Internet connection . Low price . Lower speed than any other . Discomfort of typing up phone line ISDN . Call setup is very quick . Low retrieval time . Can carry data and voice at the same time and voice clearness is incomparable . ISDN routers and modems are more expensive than any others . Data connections are not available in all locations ADSL . High speed connection . Use of phone line while connected . Faster download than upload . Line testing takes a long time . Home user is contented at 50:1 by sharing your 512 Kbps with 49 other people, giving you 10 bps. Fiber connection . It can transmit data over long distance without much data loss .. . Can cost more price than broadband connection cost . not susceptible radio frequency Broadband . Maximum transmission speed is 4 Mbps . Transmission capacity is faster than Primary ISDN . Bandwidth is not always reliable for customer . Not sufficient enough to provide good video quality. c) List the 5 networking capabilities of Window XP (5 marks) 5 networking capabilities of Windows XP Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) When your computer is connected to the Internet or other route for the network, there is a threat of not permission attack to approach your computer data. If the computer is connecting the external network, a Firewall can protect your home network versus the danger of unsafety network jammed to pass. Network Setup Wizard Window XP introduces us with a Network Setup Wizard for easy using of Setting up your network and it use to configure the Internet connection on your network, and supply the Internet Connection Firewall. Moreover, it can be run on the Window 98, Window ME and Window XP computers on your network using the CD or a floppy disk. Network Diagnostics Features Network Diagnostics features help diagnosing network problems increase people who is setting up small networks. The features of The Network Diagnostics Web Page and NetSh helper, Network Connections Support Tab, Network Connection Repair Link, Task Manager Networking Tab and Updated Command Line Network Diagnostics Tool, enable troubleshooting of various problems by the users. Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE) Window XP creates connections using Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE). By using this Broadband modem, LAN users can have high-speed data networks. And PPPoE provides separate connections for each user to a remote server. In addition, it also enables your internet connections join smoothly with Internet Explorer and other Window Applications. Wireless LAN Enhancements Window XP deploys some features and enhancements about Wireless LAN networks and these enhancements are summarized as follow. Enhanced Ethernet and Wireless Security (IEEE 802.1X Support) Wireless Zero Configuration Fig.3 c.1 showing about internet connections Task 4 Task 4 For this task you need to do a fresh install of Windows XP (or later operating system permitted by your tutor) on a computer. Prepare a report evidencing your practical work covering the following questions: List out the names, locations, purpose and contents of any 10 Windows XP (or later versions permitted) systems files.(10 marks) By this question, I need to install a Window XP (Service pack 2); I insert a Window XP installer disc into my CD drive. When the CD is read, the monitor screen shows the following messages. Fig 4a.1 By this message, I pressed any key such as Space, Enter, Backspace, etc Fig 4a.28 So Finally, The Window XP installation was finished and the wallpaper and Recycle Bin icon is display on the screen. Simple Reference: From Practical Room List out the names, locations, purpose and contents of any 10 Window XP (or later versions permitted ) system files (10 marks) Names of 10 Window XP system files Location: All system files are located in C: Window XP file Purposes of system files NTLDR : It usually run on primary hard disk drive and the purpose is to loading the boot process for Window NT operating system including Window XP, Window Server 2003. NTDETECT.COM : is used on computer that has BIOS firmware. In Windows Vista and later Operating Systems, NTDETECT.COM is now only to supports ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface). IO.SYS is an essential part of MS-DOS and Window 9x because it contains MS device drivers and DOS initializing Program. And it can initialize the device drivers into memo MSDOS.SYS It is a hidden system file created on the root of the boot drive. It can changed the PC environment by replacing the file contents [Paths] WinDir=C:WINDOWS WinBootDir=C:WINDOWS HostWinBootDrv=C [Options] BootGUI=1 Network=1 BootMulti=1 CONFIG.SYS can set up the memory managers in the system. It can load files, mostly TSRs and devices drivers, in turn(console, disk, serial port, etc BOOT.INI: is to protected from user configuration by having the file attributes such as system, hidden, read-only. To manually edit it AUTOEXEC.BAT contains DOS commands that executed automatically when a PC boots . This locates in the root directory of the hard drive of the computer and is used to set defaults to run programs that should be executed during setup. Contents: PROMPT $P$G COMMAND.COM is the default operating system shell file for DOS operating system and the default command line interpreter on DOS-based 16/32-bit Window versions of 9x and Me. NTUSER.DAT : it is to set the default language to instead of English and can edit file to correspond to the new language BOOT.INI it is a text file available on the computer. And it is fetched by NTLDR and displayed as OS options. Contents: [boot loader] timeout=10 default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)WINDOWS [operating systems] multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(2)WINDOWS=Microsoft Windows XP /fastdetect C: = Microsoft Windows b) Use the following tools in Windows such as Microsoft Management Console (MMC), Event Viewer and Task Manager on the system. List out the practical uses of these tools. (10 marks) Microsoft Management Console (MMC) Fig 4b.1 First, if you want to enter the Microsoft Management Console, youll enter RUN (win key + R key) program and type MMC. And then MMC program is opened. Fig 4b.2 In Fig 4b.2, there is no program in console root and if you want to add or remove snap-in, go to the File Text Menu Bar (Ctrl+m). You can add the programs that you want to do in the same time and you can click Remove button to remove the program that you dont want to do. Fig 4b.3 Fig 4b.4 shows that you can choose the programs that you want to do and Click Add if not you can click Close Button to exit from the program. Fig 4b.4 The above example shows that the user chose the Device Manager Program to add to the Console Root. And he clicks Add. Fig 4b.5 And the message box shows on the screen to choose the kind of computer (local or another) and the user chose local computer. Click Finish to save the program in add or remove snap-in. Fig 4.6 This above Add/Remove Snap-in box shows that the program that you already add and if you want to add second program, you will click Add button for next time. Fig 4b.7 Fig 4b.7 shows that the user seems to add Disk Defragmenter, Disk Management (Local), Event Viewer (Local), Device Manager on local computer. And the picture is clicked Disk Defragmenter program. Fig 4b.8 The picture shows the Console1.msc file is saved in desktop. Fig 4b.9 Also the Console1.msc file is saved on the desktop on the screen. So, you can also see the Console1.msc file on desktop. And so, u can be use Disk Defragmenter, Disk Management (Local), Event Viewer (Local), Device Manager on local computer by clicking the Console1.msc file. Event Viewer Fig 4b.10 If you want to use event viewer software program, press Window key+R and type eventvwr and click OK. Fig 4b.11 In event viewer software program, you can see the application, Security and System software icons. Fig 4b.12 When you click Application list, you can see what happen in your Computer Operation System such as Informations, Warnings, and Errors when the computer is running. Fig 4b.13 And system list shows how many events occur date by date such as Errors and Information. Fig 4b.14 is as same as Fig 4b.13 In above picture is about System Properties and it can be opened by clicking right click on system icon. Fig 4b.15 In the box of System Properties, the user can adjust the Maximum log size, overwrite events date and clear log manually. Fig 4b.16 Fig 4b.16 shows that the user can change the Event types if the only he wanted by clicking right click and go to view and then click filter. And click OK to show them or click Cancel to get back to the Menu. Task Manager If you want to enter the Task Manager Program, press Window Key and Run key to enter Run Program and type as taskmgr. Fig 4b.17 The above message box is showing that which applications are running on the OS and has Applications, Processes, Performance, Networking and Users icons. Fig 4b.16 The above picture shows that if you want to close Windows Messenger, select it and click right click and choose End Task. Fig 4b.17 And this above picture is about if you want to open the program (eg. Window Media Player), click New Task to create New Task. Fig 4b.18 Moreover, the user can look which program takes how much memory usage in Process Option. And if you want to close Window Media Player click end process to close. Fig 4b.20 And in Performance option, the user can see the CPU and PF usages and histories. Moreover, In Networking option, the use would see the Connection between Local Area Network. Fig 4b.21 In user list, the user can see that how many user accounts in there. And he can disconnect or log off the Administrator (user) account. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. c) Install two new devices after you have installed the Operation system and list out the procedures which you used for adding and configuring the devices drivers. (10 marks) I installed the Printer after you have installed the Operation system. Installation of Printer First, connect the data cable with Printer port. Fig 4c.1 And, go to the control panel and click the Printer and Faxes. Then, click Add a printer dialog-box. So, the screen shows the display box Welcome to the Add Printer. And then click Next to continue. 19th August, Thursday at 9:48 AM. Fig 4c. 2 And the message box shows that you need to choose local or network printer. If you want to share a printer, chose network printer. But you must have a printers driver in computer. So choose local printer for the users computer only. 19th August, Thursday at 9:49 AM. Fig 4c.3 Select printers port such as LPT (Recommended Printer Port/Parallel Port), COM (Serial port), USB port, so chose USB port. Fig 4c.4 I think you need to choose the manufacture and models of your printer. If you dont have printers model, click Have Disk button and choose and assign as HP and add as HP Deskjet 2200 series. Fig 4c.5 Choose either share the printer or dont share the printer. So choose dont share the printer. Fig 4c.6 So, finished the installation of printer. 19th August, Thursday at 9:55 AM. Fig 4c.7 At the end of the installation of Printer, your installed Printer is in use. Moreover, if you want to share this printer, click right-click to the sharing of printer. Fig 4c.8 And in the Sharing Tab, you need to choose Share this printer. 19th August, Thursday at 9:59 AM. Fig 4c.9 At the end, the installation is finished and the printer is ready to use now. 19th August, Thursday at 10:00 AM. Installation of Scanner Fig 4c.9 First, I mounted the scanner to USB port then the message box shows Found New Hardware and I clicked the right click to My computer icon and then choose Properties to see the property of scanner. 17th August, Tuesday at 12:37 AM. Fig 4c.10 In Hardware tab, I click the Device Manager to see for the scanner installation. 17th August, Tuesday at 12:38 AM. Fig 4c.11 In Device Manager Option, the new scanner program is showing Question Mark as unknown device or other device. 17th August, Tuesday at 12:38 AM. Fig 4c.12 For the first step, I go to the My computer program and then click the Canoscanner icon to open. In second step, I chose the Setup to Install the scanner. 17th August, Tuesday at 12:41 AM. Fig 4c.13 And the CanoScan Message Box is shown to install the scanner and then some software installation notes is shown as to know. 17th August, Tuesday at 12:42 AM. Fig 4c.14 And the message box shows that the check marks will be installed and remove the check mark if some program is not unwanted by clicking next time to unwanted program. And click Install to install the marked program and click Back to go back to the main menu. 1

Abolishing the Death Penalty Essay -- Capital Punishment Justice Essay

Abolishing the Death Penalty When taking a human life in response to a crime, a state is acting on behalf of all of its citizens. Capital punishment is an expensive procedure with permanent ramifications. It is therefore very important that the matter of capital punishment be seriously reconsidered. In order to protect all of America's citizens, I recommend that congress approve a constitutional amendment that reads: The states and the federal government shall not under any circumstances execute anyone. All prisoners currently under sentence of death shall have the right to a new trial. The reasons for such an amendment include the inherent immorality of capital punishment, its inconsistent application and its unjustified costs. The moral foundations followed today by nearly every nation were laid in 1949. With the horrors of World War II fresh in the minds of every government, nearly all of the world's nations sent delegates to San Francisco and formed the United Nations General Assembly to draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These rights, it was reasoned, "are inherent in every human being. They are not privileges that may be granted by governments for good behavior and they may not be withdrawn for bad behavior" (Amnesty International 1). Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights reads, "Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person." This right to life cannot be abridged by any government because the treaty states it is one of the "inalienable rights of all members of the human family." Furthermore, Article 5 declares that no person shall be subjected to "inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment." It is not difficult to assume that killing someone is regarde d as degrading... ...Evolving Context of the Post-Furman Era." 1988. Social Forces: vol. 66. Porter, Phil. The Economics of Capital Punishment. 1998. <http://www.mindspring.com/~philporter/econ.html> Scalia, Antonin. A Call for reckoning: Religion and the death Penalty. Speech delivered 25 Jan. 2002. Sherrill, Robert. "Death Trip: The American Way of Execution." The Nation. 8 Jan. 2001. Thompson v. Oklahoma, 487 U.S. 815. 1988. Trombley, S. The Execution Protocol: Inside America's Capital Punishment Industry. New York: Crown Publishers, 1992. U.S. Bishops. "Statement on Capital Punishment." Nov. 1980. <http://www.osjspm.org/cst/cappun.htm> 21 Feb. 2003. U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics. Capital Punishment 2001. 2001. <http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/pub/ascii/cp01.txt> Weisberg, J. "This is Your Death," The New Republic, July 1, 1991.

Schutz?s theory Essay -- essays research papers

In today’s paper, I will be analysis personal relationship using Schutz’s theory of interpersonal needs. According to Communication Making Connection by William J. Seiler and Melissa L. Beall, Schutz’s theory implies that we have three needs: the need for affection, the need for inclusion, and the need for control. According to Schutz’s theory, the need for affection is the need to feel likeable or lovable. If various people like a specific person, that person has effectively fulfill this need and that need is referred as personal. Someone who is unable to fulfill this need is labeled either underpersonal or overpersonal. Personal individuals want to be liked, but they do not consider being liked by everyone essential for happiness. Underpersonal people avoid emotional commitments or involvement with others. Overpersonal individuals will often go to the extremes to ensure acceptance by others. It is my belief that, I am a personal individual. I’m the type of person that feels like I’m capable of dealing with anyone that I come in contact with. Many people that I’ve encounter over the years like my football teammate feel that I’m cocky; nevertheless I tell them that I’m just confident. My ex-girlfriend, shontell, on the other hand is more an overpersonal type of individual. She needs to be at the center of attention in order to ensure that she is acceptance by she peers. She will not make a decision without someone approval. According to Schutz’s theory, the interpersonal ne...

The Social Triangle and A Retrieved Reformation :: Author Writer O Henry

In the short stories "The Social Triangle" and "A Retrieved Reformation", O. Henry uses the literary devices of symbolism, plot twists, and characterization. The time period in which O. Henry's finest works created, occurred in the late 1800's to the early 1900's where he dazzled readers with his unorthodox, romantic style. A short story titled "A Retrieved Reformation" written by O. Henry, who sold it to George Tyler who later turned the work into a Broadway show. "Alias Jimmy Valentine"as it came to be called dazzled America, England, France, and Spain for over a decade. In the short stories "The Social Triangle" and "A Retrieved Reformation", O. Henry uses the literary devices of symbolism, plot twists, and characterization. "The Social Triangle" one of the great works by O. Henry, uses symbolism, plot twists, and characterization. The triangle includes a poor hard-working, lower-class man named Ikey Snigglefritz who uses his whole weeks pay to setup drinks for a middle-class man named Billy McMahon. Ikey's wife and her three sisters become outraged at his actions. Despite their animosity toward him, he gladly gave up his pay to spend it on someone whom he admires and the way he spent his wages is a symbol of achievement. "Ikey threw is week's wages in a crumbled roll upon the bar." With only slight hesitation, Ikey made a friendly gesture to a man of a higher class who will probably never know how hard it he worked to get that money. Both Ikey and Billy got their jollies by shaking the hand of someone from a social class above them. Van Duyskink got his jollies by shaking the hand of the impoverish Ikey Snigglefritz which happens to classify as a plot twist. "To solve the improbable triangle, Van Duyskink...impulsively leaves his car to grasp the hand of Ikey Snigglefritz. The plot appears to be twisted because nobody expects Van Duyskink to be happy to shake the hand of a poor man due to the fact that he is a millionaire. O. Henry developed Ikey and Billy through the story by using characterization. Henry describes Billy McMahon as "...the greatest man, the most wonderful man...flushed and triumphant and mighty. Henry goes on to represent just how important and wonderful this man is. Ikey is described by Henry when he says that Ikey is, ". The Social Triangle and A Retrieved Reformation :: Author Writer O Henry In the short stories "The Social Triangle" and "A Retrieved Reformation", O. Henry uses the literary devices of symbolism, plot twists, and characterization. The time period in which O. Henry's finest works created, occurred in the late 1800's to the early 1900's where he dazzled readers with his unorthodox, romantic style. A short story titled "A Retrieved Reformation" written by O. Henry, who sold it to George Tyler who later turned the work into a Broadway show. "Alias Jimmy Valentine"as it came to be called dazzled America, England, France, and Spain for over a decade. In the short stories "The Social Triangle" and "A Retrieved Reformation", O. Henry uses the literary devices of symbolism, plot twists, and characterization. "The Social Triangle" one of the great works by O. Henry, uses symbolism, plot twists, and characterization. The triangle includes a poor hard-working, lower-class man named Ikey Snigglefritz who uses his whole weeks pay to setup drinks for a middle-class man named Billy McMahon. Ikey's wife and her three sisters become outraged at his actions. Despite their animosity toward him, he gladly gave up his pay to spend it on someone whom he admires and the way he spent his wages is a symbol of achievement. "Ikey threw is week's wages in a crumbled roll upon the bar." With only slight hesitation, Ikey made a friendly gesture to a man of a higher class who will probably never know how hard it he worked to get that money. Both Ikey and Billy got their jollies by shaking the hand of someone from a social class above them. Van Duyskink got his jollies by shaking the hand of the impoverish Ikey Snigglefritz which happens to classify as a plot twist. "To solve the improbable triangle, Van Duyskink...impulsively leaves his car to grasp the hand of Ikey Snigglefritz. The plot appears to be twisted because nobody expects Van Duyskink to be happy to shake the hand of a poor man due to the fact that he is a millionaire. O. Henry developed Ikey and Billy through the story by using characterization. Henry describes Billy McMahon as "...the greatest man, the most wonderful man...flushed and triumphant and mighty. Henry goes on to represent just how important and wonderful this man is. Ikey is described by Henry when he says that Ikey is, ".

How does “Taxi Driver” Essay

â€Å"Taxi driver† subvert the classical Hollywood genre due to its ending. In a classical Hollywood genre, the story is supposed to end with a resolution, but in this film we do not learn the true ending, because the one we do see is quite obscure and unexpected; Betsy in the back of Travis’ cab. There are many signs that this ending may be a figment of Travis’ imagination such as the way we are never shown Betsy actually sitting in the back of the cab, we only see her through Travis’ rear view mirror. This could suggest that the ending is more what Travis wanted to happen, not what actually happened. The film goes against classical Hollywood genre by its use of hybrid genre. Throughout the film we get scenes that make reference to film noir and thriller genres, but towards the end it mainly goes towards western, as Travis prepares for battle to the confrontation scene. This goes against the classical Hollywood genre as films usually only have one or two genres at the most, but this film even shows some comedic qualities at times. â€Å"Taxi driver† subverts the use of classical Hollywood narrative by its use of a circular narrative. We begin and end with Travis in his taxi, driving around looking for fares. This suggests to the audience that what he had to do has been done, and he is getting back to normal, but is he as unstable as ever? Throughout the film Travis has referred to the population of New York as â€Å"the scum of the earth†, but now he is behaving just like them, does this make him â€Å"the scum of the earth† also? â€Å"Taxi driver† should go along with the classical Hollywood narrative through the romance plot between Betsy and Travis at the end of the film, but the scene is awkward, and it reminds the audience of the reasons he began his plot to kill Palantine, and Sport and his gang. It also never shows the two of them together, only them looking at each other through the rear view mirror. This suggest to the audience that they can never be together, even now. Th film goes against the classical Hollywood narrative through Travis’ re-assimilation. Travis, who essentially can be classed as a villain through his actions of killing numerous people and plotting to kill even more, is represented to the population of New York as a â€Å"hero taxi driver† and how he battled the â€Å"mafia†. This makes the audience wonder just how good Travis’ actions were. The film is based on the life of Arthur Bremer, a man who was a taxi driver and plotted to assassinate George Wallace, but the plan fell through and he was arrested. Bremer’s thoughts, desires and plans are echoed throughout the film, especially through the use of Travis’ diary and the narrative he uses to read it to the audience. The film subvert classical Hollywood narrative through this, as quite often a disclaimer tells the audience that no events are related to any person living or dead, but this can clearly be related in a number of places to Bremer’s plans and actions.

Conflict in the Niger Delta Essay

The conflict happening in the Niger Delta stated in 1990. The tensions involve foreign oil corporation and members of some Niger Delta’s minority ethnic groups, particularly the Ogoni and the Ijaw. The instability continued from the 1990s until recently even though there are major changes in the government structure. The area surrounding the Delta is now heavily militarized by the Nigerian army and police forces, and numerous armed groups belonging to the ethnic groups (Barrett). According to the Center for International Development and Conflict Management (â€Å"Minorities at Risk. A Country Case Study†) violence and high crime rate is a common scenario in the Delta because of the stiff contest for oil. Government atrocities with civilian as victims are also recorded in the area. One of the most conflicted areas in the Delta is Oganiland. Located in the southeast of the Niger Delta, Oganiland is a region comprising 404-squale-mile of the area. Shell and Chevron set up their exploration and drilling facilities in the area upon the discovery of oil deposits in 1957. The rich oil deposit in Oganiland is considered as Nigeria’s first petroleum deposit for commercial purposes. During the exploration of the two largest foreign oil companies, government authorities and agents forced residents of the area to leave. This government-initiated forced evacuation on the area affected almost half a million ethnic minorities belonging to the group Ogonis and other ethnic groups (Agbu). They also attest that the government and the foreign oil companies did not conduct any consultation with them and offer any damages. Despite the strong opposition from the affected minorities, the federal government supported the atrocities by amending the Constitution that the government has the full ownership on all lands within Nigeria and compensation will be based on the crops and products located in the land during the taking and not the actual value of the land. These further allow the taking of foreign oil corporations on almost all of the lands in Oganiland with the help of the government (â€Å"Minorities at Risk. A Country Case Study. †). In the 1980s, the situation of Oganiland and the Oganis deteriorated economically, socially, politically and environmentally. Dissatisfaction and discontent among the people in Oganiland steadily mounts that in 1992 they formed the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP). It became the main organization campaigning for various issues of the Oganis, primarily ethnic and environmental rights. MOSOP became the main opposition of the Nigerian government and foreign oil companies in Oganiland (Agbu). The conflict between MOSOP and oil companies escalated that it resulted to violence disrupting some of the oil companies’ major activities in the area. MOSOP required $10 billion as royalties since the companies started and for the degradation of the environment in Oganiland (Olusakin). However, according to Agbu (2004) the oil companies, Shell, Chevron and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, with the help of government authorities answered the MOSOP’s demand through violence also. Mass actions and protests started to occur in a daily basis in Oganiland that resulted the banning of public assembly by the government. It also pronounced as acts of treason any disturbances of oil production and related activities in the area. Militarization and repression rose in 1994 where in four village chiefs were murdered. The head of MOSOP, Ken Saro-Wira was detained because of the killings. Hundreds were also arbitrarily arrested and detained because of the killings. By June of the same year, there were almost 30 villages totally ruined, almost 2,000 deaths and leaving nearly 100,000 Oganis as internal refugees (Human Rights Watch). In 1994 Saro-Wira with other eight Ogani activist were arrested and sentenced to death. They are executed though hanging by the Nigerian government. The deaths of Saro-Wira and his companions enraged the people of Oganiland that resulted to more disruptive and violent actions against the oil companies. The militancy of the Oganis inspired other ethic groups to start their own struggle against the government and the foreign oil companies (Olusakin). The Ijaws organized the Ijaw National Congress and Ijaw youth organized the Ijaw Youth Congress. These two groups raise the political consciousness and militancy of the Ijaw people. They started to lay down their demands against the irresponsive central Nigerian government and to the foreign oil companies. They are asserting that these companies should have direct and concrete plans to uplift the lives of the people in the Niger Delta (Obi). Recently, armed and more militant groups like Niger Delta Peoples Vanguard (NDPV), Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force (NDPVF) and the Nigerian Delta Vigilante (NDV) were organized. Although these groups were formed because of the continuous environmental degradation, government neglect and social and political unrest in the area, they are now in conflict on varying ideologies and forms of actions (Obi). Most of them aim to gain control of the area’s rich oil resources. NDPVF and NDV are in conflict with each other. Violence between the groups rose resulting to disruptive activities in Port Harcourt, the Delta’s oil capital. Supporters of NDPVF transferred to NDV escalating more the conflict between the two groups (Agbu). After the local and national elections of 2003, NDPVF announced their all-out war against the government (Olusakin). However, MEND is closely affiliated with NDV. They reached their international reputation when they hijacked oil tankers crossing through the country and nearby countries. They arbitrarily detained workers in the tankers for months and demanding for ransom for their release. Last year, they attacked various oil installations and facilities of oil company Shell that resulted to oil price increase. They also attacked a facility of Chevron, forcing the company to halt operations in the region for that year (Obi). In 2005, the central government called the National Political reform Conference. Representatives of the Niger Delta raised various concerns on the development of the region. Numerous non-government and human rights organization have also called the attention of the central government to introduce reform in the region. There are proposals to divide the region into two, Eastern Niger Delta and Western Niger Delta, to make developmental projects easier to implement (Taylor). The ventral government should also convert new states in the region with at least one city in every state. Taylor (2007) said that federal offices and ministries should also set-up their branches in the region to make government services more accessible to ethnic minorities in the region. The government is also urged to enact legislations compelling oil companies to implement developmental projects in their host communities and strictly follow environmental laws. International civil society groups have also suggested that the central government implement policies to have more transparency in the revenues and fiscal matters on the oil industries. The Washington-based Human Rights Watch (2002) also strongly recommends that state security forces should be investigated and persecuted on their abuses on the civilians in the region (p. 5). The conflict in the region is already decade-old and seems will never end. The Nigerian government should seriously implement reforms and developmental projects in the region to alleviate poverty among its people. The more delay on these developments needed, the more people will be agitated to join the armed resistance fueled by inequality among the oil company and the ethnic minorities of the Niger Delta. Works Cited: Agbu, Osita. (2004). Ethnic Militias and the Threat to Democracy in Post-Transition Nigeria. Uppsala: Nordic African Institue. Barrett, Ejiroghene. â€Å"Why the Troubles in the Niger Delta. † New African 456 (2006): 40-45 â€Å"Minorities at Risk. A Country Case Study. † 2 April 2009. Center fro International Development and Conflict Management. . Olusakin, Ayoka Mopelala. â€Å"Peace in the Niger Delta: Economic Development and the Politics of Dependence on Oil. † International Journal on World Peace 23 (2006): 3 Obi, Cyril (1997). Globalization and Local Resistance: The Case of the Ogoni versus Shell. Ibadan: University of Ibadan. Obi, Cyril (2001). The Changing Forms of Identity Politics in Nigeria under Economic Adjustment: The Case of the Oil Minorities Movement of the Niger Delta. Uppsala: Nordic African Institute. Taylor, Darren. â€Å"Niger Delta and Lack of Infrastructure: Major Issues in Nigeria Elections. † Voice of America. 22 March 2007. 2 April 2009 â€Å"The Niger Delta: No Democratic Dividend. † October 2002. Human Rights Watch. 2 April 2009. < http://www. hrw. org/legacy/reports/2002/nigeria3/nigerdelta. pdf>