Homosexuality, Religion and Atheism

Introduction Homosexuality draws mixed reaction from across the globe. Issues like cultural values, religious context, atheism, political stability, and economic empowerment of the people in a particular setting would play a pivotal role in accepting this sexual orientation. These factors determine homosexual acceptability in the society, although other forces would have a significant role in the determination of its acceptance.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Homosexuality, Religion and Atheism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This topic is common in most popular cultural setting although there is little literature work on the same to dissect adverse opinion and ways of embracing diverse opinion on the same. In this context, the conservatives draw their arguments from religious teachings whereas the atheists or the liberals embrace the need to have a society of diverse cultural orientation. The debate experience s opposing views from philosophers, most of whom are Christian and Muslims. These conclusions come from their spiritual perspective and thus do not clearly stipulate the desire to accommodate diverse religious inclinations on the same ground. Literature review A decade ago religion was the most important predictor in defining the attitude of homosexuality in the society, Adamczyk and Pitt (2009) bring an elaborate diverse opinion on the debate. They believe that acceptance of homosexuality depends on the existing laws that regulate the same sex marriages, possible penalties when viewed as social misfit, and diversity in national or cultural orientation. This last aspect shows the importance of religion in explaining the attitude on the debate. In fact, macro and micro support survival and personal beliefs that carry weight in defining the attitudes of homosexuality (Olson et al., 2006; Yip, 2005). It is from this context that one draws the importance of opinion as the best alternati ve in formulating law, shaping the direction of cultural inclination and thus religion. Homosexuality, in respect to religion, is unnatural in the eyes of the Supreme Being; the same philosophy holds this as an impure act. The fear of divine punishment shapes the cultural orientation concerning the direction of a community. Deep rooted-ness to religion would draw disapproval attitudes as opposed to those not deeply rooted in a religion. Muslims are the worse in making such opinions concerning the debate; they have a strong disapproval attitude, unlike members from other religions. This holds true to the cultural orientation in which atheists from this background would disapprove strongly homosexuality than atheists from other cultural background (Adamczyk Pitt, 2009).Advertising Looking for essay on gender studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Some perception on gays and lesbians evoke different judgments, the survey by No rris (2008), came up with assertion that conservatives were the most judgmental on the perception that sought to allow these people freely mingle with others in the church. This supports several opinions, from this work, some people do not find any reason for branding an individual in that state of action. For instance, when one asserts that there are lesbians, rapists, and gays in the church and that they are decent people, though, living in sin, conservatives do not acknowledge the act of niceness as being polite yet rude to social context. Acknowledgement of homosexuality as impure and dirty is the most vocal opposition from such community. Moral judgment from the liberal and the conservatives are under the influence of different forces in the societal context. This is largely because of their different daily life orientation. While liberals’ demands for openness, inclusivity, and diversity that do not seek to harm any person in the society, counterparts view this as uncou th and punishable by law. The findings from this work elicit different views of liberals and the conservatives on this topic. The conservatives do not imagine how such acts could go free in the society by drawing their argument from their spiritual orientation in Supreme Being. They also believe that it represents cultural decay in the society in which punishments must take place to restore sanity, although they also offer room for repent in case of reform. These opinions are the fundamental framework of enacting laws. Depending on the majority, their way shall take centre stage and dictate the acceptable. This will automatically lock out different views from various groups with diverse sexual orientation in the community (Norris, 2008). According to Edgell et al. (2006), atheists face strong resistance from across corners of the world. The debate in this work is whether the act of the same sex marriage and other related sexual orientation is acceptable in the society or not. Findin gs from this work show that their acceptance in the community becomes questionable in different perspectives.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Homosexuality, Religion and Atheism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is therefore, true to assert that these finding support multiple views on the debate. The gap that exists between the believers and the nonbelievers defines the extent of this acceptance. If there is deep concern of community, some perception on their sexual inclination would define the root of acceptance. In this context atheist, unlike other religious orientations do not easily gain acceptance, either in public, or private domain. This distrust gets its drive from religion prediction factors, social location, and extensive values of orientation. From this context, it is clear that although there is extensive acceptance of various religious contexts, the same does not happen with nonreligious grouping . This study, however; goes an extra mile in helping to describe that increasing acceptance of various cultural inclinations and sexual orientation does extend to the levels of known religion. The study’s findings on the role of religion and believes provide sound moral guidance for any membership in cultural acceptance. Clinging onto the religion allows and gives on a better position of acceptance in the societal domain as opposed to lack of religion (Edgell et al., 2006). The attitude plays a significant role in young men and their religious perception in homosexuality. Besen and Zicklin (2007), explore the variations of attitudes on people clinging to same sexual marriages from the complexity of religious definitions, mainly in the young people and how these could support or put to jeopardy on the rights of gays. This research supports multiple views on the perception of gays in the societal context. Its findings show that young men do not have particular attitudes about t he homosexuals, but their counterparts in religions do, these varied perception emanates from religious inclination. However, one notable difference in the youth is the varied attitudes on gender, whereas young male showed significant concern and attitude toward the homosexuality, their female counterparts show little concern.Advertising Looking for essay on gender studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The latter seems to support a diverse cultural perspective. Although the data obtained in this research had multiple study sites, for instance whereas in the military more young men showed their support for and positive attitudes toward these sexual orientation multiple views emerge from without this context. The role of religion is playing a significant role in shaping the youth in taking a certain sexual step, more so it defines the virtues and values for accepting and developing a positive attitude of a given sexual orientation. It is from this perspective that the youth find it hard to go against the norms and virtues of religion in doing contrary to their teaching of sexual orientation. The unsupportive trends by religious group are the basis upon which the youth find solutions and directions of denouncing the homosexuals. This is true because many of them cling to religions that have positive attitudes on the act (Besen Zicklin, 2007). In his work on understanding the differe nt views of homosexuality debate, Sprigg (2011), notes that many people do not consider two important views in an effort of understanding same sexual marriage. The first paradigm shift is the identification of gay identity. This shift is under several believes it states well that when one is born a gay, it makes it hard to change the state; it also states that gays have fewer options of becoming heterosexual. This paradigm also defines sexual orientation as innate feature by likening it to races, it goes ahead to assert that the act is not different from being straight. Finally, the shift stands firm that there is no harm in one adopting gay. The second view defines the practical aspect of sexual orientation. Unlike what many people perceive, this work shows the importance of going out of the cocoons that enslave many conservatives who believes that sexual orientation is purely a unitary phenomenon. The study shows that sexual structure is a three thing affair; this comes from attra ction, conduct, and self identity (Sprigg, 2011). One may get attraction to people of the same sexual orientation, opposite sex, or both. The second part gives liberty of choosing the type of conduct one gets attracted, while the last segment seeks to draw the attention of one’s thought as straight, gay, bisexual, and lesbian. Findings from this studies show that although some people may feel attraction from the same sex, they would otherwise choose the opposite (heterosexual) because if fear of publicity and possible implications. This denies them the option of choosing their desired sexual partners. Study on the debate reveals issues of concern depending on development, industrialisation, and economic powers (Chike, 2007). While in countries like Canada, Belgium, and Netherlands the homosexuals easily go about their culture, in developing nations the act of homosexuality is unthinkable. African Christian leaders are the most conservatives in condemning this act; they strict ly follow biblical teachings that condemn the act of same sexual orientation. From this perspective, it is true that economic empowerment has a major role in shaping the way people think and make decisions. This does not give them room to look at the Bible as historic book that offers alternative teachings that require evaluations and considerations in a contextualization perspective, but rather as a book that offers nourishment that needs integration into their traditional way of life to define their every step. It is very difficult to integrate diverse views and attitudes of accepting homosexuality in the community. This stiffens the possibility of smooth swaying of wave and tides for those having attractions for same sexes. Similarly, philosophers in Europe and North America share the same sentiments with African religious leaders. These are mainly those with imprints of Christianity in the African continent. Contrary to this, industrialized countries assess these issues in diffe rent perception; a god number of religious leaders would allow liberal view. Western churches would be comfortable to accommodate lesbians, rapists, and gays in their churches as opposed to what happens in African states. In this study, the author draws attention of some of the underrated predictors that define religious orientations toward homosexuality. Economic empowerment seems to play a significant role in shaping the way forward in accepting this issue (Chike, 2007). Some researchers believe that the same way religions do not offer accomplishments like honorary degrees, issuance of passports, and academic accomplishments, they should not bother about branding some act as illegal and thus should leave the floor open for individual choices. Homosexuality is in fact, among the many issues that religions oppose. Many religions assert that when one sees atheism in the society he or she sees homosexuality in the same magnitude. However, some religions like Christianity in some devel oped nations have rooms for these people. This came to live after several years of protest and stone throwing to make the field free for navigation. As many would have expected that the church took an active role in ordaining active homosexuals, the move is still in darkness owing to conservative views on the same. Largely it faces resistance from lack of policies from the state to provide provisions that enable people of same sexual orientations to enter into a contractual arrangement. This last aspect include issues like nationhood or citizenship, status of immigration, inheritance of insurance policy, and policies that govern visitations to the hospital (Chike, 2007; Sprigg, 2011). Many states are facing resistance from policy makers in these sectors because people of the same sex marriages would be in a better position of enjoying significant returns from these policies if there is a legal protection of their sexual inclination. This faces resistance from the religious leaders w ho on the same issues assert that protection of moral uprightness in the society is the most important aspect that needs protection than individual aspirations intending to bring down the strong mechanisms of social values and norms. Just as religion is dynamic, homosexuality perception goes along this inclination in different views. The main determinant of religion among others is the age. As people grow older, they tend to cling closer to a religion, this must take into account their dynamic perspectives. This is the basis upon which many people keep changing from churches to churches. This is mainly to find places where their faith in accepting other norms does not welcome rude rebuke. Conflicts in the narrowed thinking aspersions cause most people to move in various religions. Most people will, therefore, identify themselves with religions not against a certain sexual orientation. Embracing complex religious identity is the main predictor that embraces the wellbeing in most athe ists. This is contrary to their intent of aligning themselves to a religion; the aftermath of these wrangles is keeping away from such doctrines that tend to deny their rights. Even though all people under the universe will try as much as, they could identify themselves with spirituality in which many would derive resources, sexual orientation would shift this perception into a totally different point of view (Chike, 2007; Sprigg, 2011). Conclusions Some of these findings are consistent with the public opinions mainly because some studies draw their argument from the religious perspective. The evidence emerging stipulates the importance of this research in drawing the attention of progress in the debate. This implies that more is yet to draw the importance of liberating the society in allowing its people to take their different stand in cultural values. The implications of these researches are that people with distinct sexes, different sexual orientations, and gender identities woul d not have a place in the society not until change covers the earth’s face. This protects policy makers in the insurance, medical fraternity who believe that same sexual marriages would make certain individuals to benefit from the facilities and policies while disadvantaging their counterparts in straight marriages. The research needs to find amicable issues of redress in carrying out their research and offers sound solutions to policy makers to champion methods to drafting policies in which everyone would find refuge. References Adamczyk, A., Pitt, C. (2009). Shaping attitudes about homosexuality: The role of religion and cultural context. Social Science Research, 38, 338–351. Besen, Y., Zicklin, G. (2007). Young Men, Religion, and Attitudes towards Homosexuality. Journal of Men, Masculinities and Spirituality, 1(3), 250†266. Chike, C. (2007). Beyond the homosexuality debate. Retrieved from https://www.anglicancommunion.org/ Edgell, P., Gerteis, J., Hartmann, D. (2006). Atheists as â€Å"Other†: Moral Boundaries and Cultural Membership in American Society. American Sociological Review, 71(3), 211–234. Norris, R.A. (2008). Some Notes on the Current Debate Regarding Homosexuality and the Place of Homosexuals in the Church. Anglican Theological Review, 90(3), 437-512. Olson, R.R., Cadge, W., Harrison, J.T. (2006). Religion and public opinion about same-sex marriage. Social Science Quarterly, 87, 340–360. Sprigg , P. (2011). Debating Homosexuality Understanding Two Views. Retrieved from https://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF11J33.pdf Yip, A. (2005). Queering Religious Texts: An Exploration of British Non-heterosexual Christians’ and Muslims’ Strategy of Constructing Sexuality affirming Hermeneutics. Sociology BSA Publications Ltd, 39(1), 47–65. 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Religion and the Environment Essays

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Holistic and interconnected

Holistic and interconnected Olivia Wray 13AL ASSIGNMENT 4 UNIT 3 Holistic and interconnected The development of children is often studied as separate topics, for example their different skills are viewed and measured in different ways. However, each area of development influences the others, and is interconnected. Each different development skill is seen differently in every child. Holistic; can be viewed as PIES, physical intellectual emotional and social development. Physical development is a gradual process by which children develop the use and control of muscles. Intellectual development is sometimes called cognitive development, its a process by which thought processes develop so children are able to increase their knowledge and understanding of the world around them; social development involves children learning how to develop relationships and interact with other people. 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All childrens milestones will be met when they are ready, however a child cannot walk before they can sit up, the order in which we learn to do things is a ‘norm, its the only way our body will function and work correctly, or else we would not develop at the correct rate. All children are different and unique in different ways, and when they are growing parents and guardians often compare their childs development and growth to other children and the mile stones, however, as children will develop and grow at different times, they will generally be quite similar unless they have a growing deficiency or some other genetic problem that may affect their growth. Nature/Nurture Debate It has already been considered that the influence of nature and nurture in the development of babies and children can be viewed as a debate, but there are other controversies surrounding the principle of development, the nature nurture debate can turn into an argument, as different parents have different parenting skills, and bring their children up with different disciplinary skills etc. An example of the nature nurture debate is what Developmental psychologists say and their differing views about the nature of the change in development. The issue of quantitative and qualitative change raises interesting questions, for parents also. When a child is born ‘clever, it can be questioned whether their parent have a lot of money and could just provide the relevant and best materials for their education, this is just an example. Children may reach milestones of development at different ages. For example, when children take their first step or say their first word, can vary greatly. Milestones are often used to measure development, such as when a child can sit without support. These milestones have to be used with care as the whole (or holistic) development of a child should be considered before drawing any conclusions. However, there is generally accepted range of normal development. Following a milestone, isnt the best way to monitor a childs development, as every child is individual and will vary significantly. THEORIES- nature/ nurture debate The nature-nurture debate is about whether childrens development is influenced by nature (the effect of inherited) or nurture (environmental factors). Because every person who is a parent or guardian, hopes for their child to be happy and healthy, and develop at the expected mile stone rates, parents find bringing up their children and giving them the best really important for a successful development. The potential for growth and development is affected by inherited factors. This is called the interaction with nature. In addition, factors within our environment influence development. This is called the interaction of nurture. There is much debate about how much and in what way either nature and/ nurture affects the process of development- known as the nature-nurture debate. Supporters of the nature side of the argument believe that intelligence is inborn, or innate, and the childs genes have determined their cognitive potential. Supporters of nurture believe that environmental factors, such as the childs stimulating experiences in the early years, have a strong influence on cognitive development. It is generally considered that both nature and nurture interact and influence the developmental process. Stages and sequences- normal ranges of development Children develop at different rates for a variety of reasons. However, development does follow the same sequence. The upper part of the body, especially the brain and head, develops rapidly, while the lower part of the body follows more slowly. This is called head to toe or cephalo-caudal development. Also, development starts from the centre outwards. This is called inner to outer or proximodistal development. Hence, a baby can hold its head up before it can stand and can wave its arms around before it develops fine control over the use of its hands. As there is no such thing as ‘normal development, it can be difficult to follow stages and sequences, as development is individual, and cant be measured in comparison to any one elses. Percentiles Percentile charts help to keep a record of your childs growth and development. Percentile charts are important for keeping track of individuals and comparing their heights weight and other bodily measurements, to expected milestones. Physical development Gross and fine motor skills Gross motor skills are the large muscles of the body that enable functions such as walking, maintaining balance, co ordination, jumping and reaching. During development children reach milestones according to their development individually. At the same time as a childs gross motor movements are developing, so are their fine motor skills. In order for children to develop motor control, children need to: Practice to improve and master the skill Concentrate on small parts of the overall skill, e.g. children learn to place two feet to a stair before developing the more complex skill of alternate feet action. Pay a lot of attention to the action; later they can do the action almost automatically. Have experience of a range of movement activities to develop their memory of motor actions enabling them to cope with more complex situations. 0-3 Newborn babies are born with certain reflexes. These are involuntary, automatic, physical responses, triggered by a stimulus and determined by impulses in nerves. Everybody has some reflexes, for example knees jerk when tapped, which you do not learn to do; they are inborn. This means you cannot control whether you react or not, however as we get older we become more aware of reactions in our bodies and what stimulates our bodies. The large movements include gross motor actions, which involve the use of the whole limb, for example when hopping. Also locomotive skills which are movements needed to travel, for example crawling and walking. These gross motor skills will develop through out your life, babies often are flexible and as they grow and get older, they become less flexible, this is just an example of how motor skills will develop and change, affecting children and babies lives as they begin to do things for themselves and provide for themselves, this relates to the nature nurture debate as it is argued by some that our natural ways of fending for ourselves could be mistaken for the way we are brought up and the environment we are brought up in. Reflexes enable babies to survive, for example seeking and then taking their food. At such a young age gross and fine motor skills are extremely important as they will need to be able to fend for themselves and be able to do things for them selves as they get older, although through a lot of early child hood everythings done for you, by the age of three you usually start going to a care placement, where everything cant be done for you, and this is when children really do have to use their developed skills and start developing new ones. For each individual child they will develop and grow at different rates, this includes their gross motor skills. The patterns in which children develop can depend on many things, and at such a young age, the baby now will wholly depend on their parent/carer. However children are constantly learning new ways in moving, experimenting with their bodies and learning new things about how they can move and ‘travel. The babies reflexes will depend on how they react to some things, again, every child is different, as some children will be physically stronger than others whilst others will be more tame and ‘sensitive, making their reflexes and reaction rates different. The factors that may affect childrens development is their physical state, for example their weight, and their muscle tone. As children between 0 and 3 years, will be growing at a rapid rate, it can sometimes be difficult to be aware of both gross motor and fine motor skills. As a child learns intellectually, with different materials and toys, they will use a number of grasps and skills to control and enjoy what they are doing successfully. For example a 6 month year old is not going to be able to control the movement of a crayon; however an 18 month year old may be able to draw basic shapes, at least to the extent where you can tell what the picture is of. This example shows the rates in which babies and children are changing, and the rates in which they become more and more aware of different skills that they can use. Fine motor and gross motor skills will be learnt and put into practice by different individuals at different times and in different ways. From researching gross motor and fine motor skills I now know that, physical appearance will affect intellectual thoughts, as ridiculous as it may seem childrens learning ability can be affected by their confidence and awareness; if a child doesnt have the confidence to try new skills and ways of doing things at such a young age, they clearly wont be confident enough in their future, the times when they need to do things for themselves and fend for themselves. 3-7 By the age 3-7 childrens gross motor and fine motor skills have developed. Not all children develop at the expected mile stones but in schools and nurseries there are expectations which expect to be met, adult expectations will influence children to develop skills and will then be praised and rewarded for developing them. Runs well, marches, rides tricycle. Can feed self. Pours from jug. Puts on shoes and socks, buttons and unbuttons. Builds 10- block tower. Is awkward when cutting with scissors. Can wash face and dress self except for tying shoes. Throws ball overhand. Has lots of energy. Hops, skips, and has good balance. Dresses without help and ties shoes. Can print simple letters. Is right or left handed? Competes with friends. Loves to cut, colour, and shape things. Has lots of energy. Likes learning how to use tools. Can bathe and dress with a little help from parents. Is losing baby teeth and growing permanent teeth I have taken these points from a number of places which I have researched. These are just average things children may be able to do, however, some children might be able to do more or less. 7-12 At this age, children can hop on either leg, and balance well along small spaces, their space recognition has improved and they are more aware of what is possible and not. The gross motor skills at this age have increased in both stamina and accuracy, they are also more able to control their bodily actions, and have developed a number of skills. 12-16 Between the ages of 12-16, children will have developed most or all of their fine motor and gross motor skills. As these children have gone through different stages of education they will have picked skills up and used them in their everyday lives, without even knowing. For example holding a pen and controlling it to write in both scroll and print, this is a talent to be able to do, even though the children think its just normal, it does require a number of skills and concentration. 12-16, is the age when puberty starts, and as research has shown children now will start to crave independence, this makes children want to explore with their bodies more and use different techniques when doing things, such as learning a new sport, or taking up a hobby such as art. Emotional development Attachment In children attachment and bonding is a process in which young children form close and loving relationships with their family, and other important people in their lives, such as brothers and sisters, and close friends. Even their early years care workers will have a relationship with the child, and it will be so close that they have built trust and a bond. Close relationships give children a feeling of security and love. This security helps children to cope with new experiences and new situations they may have to face in life. The child needs people in their lives that they can trust and rely on, whilst developing self confidence in the process. Bowlby a child psychologist researched in depth childrens attachment needs and the consequences of lack of attachment. Bowlbys theory relates to the bonds of attachment in children, and explains the relationships children need and want in their lives. Bowlby explained that children develop bonds of attachment through out their lives with different people involved in their lives; he also went on to explaining how relationships can give children a sense of belonging and security. To Bowlby, attachment is trusting, loving and being able to rely on someone that is involved in their lives. New situations and experiences will come into childrens lives, and according to Bowlby, it is through these experiences that children become aware of different personalities in people, and who they should and shouldnt trust. Bowlby also argued that children with lack of attachment grow up to be more insecure, and crave love/attention, often getting them in bad relationships and becoming insecure and over protective. Development of multiple attachments Developing multiple attachments means developing relationships and trust with more than just family, ‘going out the box, meaning they meet new people who become significantly important to them and a relationship is build, forming a bond of attachment. Its important that a xchild doesnt feel fearful in the presence of new adults and children in their lives, they need to feel safe and secure at all times, knowing that who they are with will protect and understand them. Self-concept A self concept is important in a childs life, as it is how they feel about themselves. Self concept is how you look at yourself, and even young children have opinions of themselves and ways they would like to change themselves. Parents and guardians have a duty to praise their children and make them feel good about themselves, for example if a child is of a different culture they may feel ‘out of place, they are not out of place or any different to any other child so parents and carers have a duty to let them know and make sure they feel good about themselves. Personal identity Personal identity is how a child views and judges themselves. Everybody has a personal identity, and will judge it whether they feel negative or positive about themselves, personality or looks. Self esteem and self concept are both factors that will affect personal identity. Bowlby Bowlby drew together such limited empirical evidence as existed at the time from across Europe and the USA. His main conclusions, that â€Å"the infant and young child should experience a warm, intimate, and continuous relationship with his mother (or permanent mother substitute) in which both find satisfaction and enjoyment† and that not to do so may have significant and irreversible mental health consequences, were both controversial and influential. The 1951 WHO publication was highly influential in causing widespread changes in the practices and prevalence of institutional care for infants and children, and in changing practices relating to the visiting of infants and small children in hospitals by parents. The theoretical basis was controversial in many ways. He broke with psychoanalytic theories which saw infants internal life as being determined by fantasy rather than real life events. Some critics profoundly disagreed with the necessity for maternal (or equivalent) love in order to function normally, or that the formation of an ongoing relationship with a child was an important part of parenting. Others questioned the extent to which his hypothesis was supported by the evidence. There was criticism of the confusion of the effects of privation (no primary attachment figure) and deprivation (loss of the primary attachment figure) and in particular, a failure to distinguish between the effects of the lack of a primary attachment figure and the other forms of deprivation and understimulation that may affect children in institutions.. Bowlbys theory is based on attachment, and he explains that when a child forms an attachment with some one they are in a process in which they are forming a relationship, whether it be with family, or with friends, The closer an attachment forms, the more trust that is built, children will often start to rely on people they build attachments with, they will look for security in them and expect a strong relationship. Freud Freud has been influential in two related but distinct ways. He simultaneously developed a theory of how the human mind is organized and operates internally, and a theory of how human behavior both conditions and results from this particular theoretical understanding. This led him to favor certain clinical techniques for attempting to help cure psychopathology. He theorized that personality is developed by the persons childhood experiences. Emotional development of older children 0-3 At a young age babies and toddlers are starting to develop different concepts and abstract ideas, based on the senses of growing and understanding. Babies and children explore using their own senses through activity and movement. They also like to give and receive eye contact as this gives an attachment and makes them feel emotionally involved with the person, this links into Bowlbys theory of attachment. At this age, whether they are a couple of months or 3, they love to get cuddles, and be fed through a bottle, or have contact during feed, bottle or breast. Feeding time gives children a sense of feeling, and they feel close to their parent or guardian, when a child is a couple of months old, they often like to be held close to their guardian, and it reminds them of being in the womb, where they felt safe and secure. Babies respond to things that they see hear and feel, this can be done through play, activity and feeding. All which are important factors for influencing the growth and development in a childs life. At such young ages it is important that young babies and children have plenty of physical contact, and time with their parents, this will form an emotional attachment and they will be ware of the feelings they have for different people they meet during their lives. When babies and children feel emotion it is often because they are happy, or upset, babies between the ages of 0 and 3, wont often feel anger, as they dont understand what feeling angry feels like, however, in some cases they become confused about how they feel, which could be angry. It is important that parents and guardians of children do everything they can to protect and maintain happiness in a childs life. Not caring for the emotional needs of a baby, is emotional abuse, as they dont understand how they should feel, but only how they do feel. Often abusers of children will start with putting things in childrens heads, its not until they are old enough to know how their emotions work. Emotional development in such a young age will start with a child becoming content, and then not content, they will feel safe and secure, then as soon as their parents or guardians leave them, even for a couple of seconds they become distressed and upset, this is just an example of how children emotional development will work. 3-7 At this age children often like to do things unaided, they enjoy being with family, and love playing with other children and alone. They have developed a skill where they can show emotion appropriately, and can view things from different points of view. Children at this age know rules, morals and values in life, and are more able to share toys, ideas and know how to take turns. They have developed a gender role now and are aware that boys and girls are different and will enjoy different things, making friends and having friends for a child of 3-7, is extremely important. 7-12 Children at this age will be able to control how they feel about other people and different situations. They know how to keep their own thoughts private, and hide their true feelings. They dont only know who they are, but know who or what they would like to be like, they become critical about themselves and start wanting changes, for example putting their mam or sisters make up. At school and where they live children start to form close relationships with other children, often sticking to their own sex. 12-16 This age is when they are experiencing education, exams and facing up to different morals. They will be physically and intellectually developing rapidly, causing sexual feelings for others, and thought of how they want to change! Children will often be going through puberty now and this will cause a lot of how they feel about themselves and others. Social development Parents show a great deal of interest in their childs developing personality. Even babies only a few weeks old display distinct personalities. Personality is thought to be a result of a combination of nature and nurture. In other words, it is influenced not only by what is inherited from parents, but also by our environment. The childs initial temperament affects the childs developing personality. Environmental factors then come into play. Our experiences are very important in forming our personality. Some babies are very placid and easily soothed, whilst others seem to find it difficult to settle. The reaction of parents and carers to difficult children is taught to be crucial in reinforcing this type of temperament or helping not to emphasise it. An important aspect of social development is the development of children moral or pre social behaviour. The family, other significant adults and children have an important role to play in this. Pro social behaviour Pro social behaviour is how a child intends to act socially, they might want to make new friends at school, but find it hard, and they might want to be involved in a social group but feel embarrassed or not good enough. Being influenced is important for a childs social skills to develop, if they are from a family who dont really socialise and just stay together as a unit, the child will think thats the norm and wont want to socialise- this is a key issue as children need socialise as a factor of development in life. Moral development Moral development comes from children seeing or doing something ‘wrong and facing consequences, then learning from then. Children need to do and see things go wrong in order to learn from them. Some children find it difficult to identify wrong and right, meaning they dont understand what morals are; also what is and isnt acceptable. Development of aggression Aggression can develop in a child as they get older, have behavioural difficulties, or suffer from some sort of abuse or hard time in their lives. When children let things build up in them emotionally, they feel anger for anyone around them, they feel like they need somebody to take their troubles out on. Children can act aggressive when not getting their own way, whether its just the way they are or they are copying someones behaviour from home. Managing unwanted behaviour Many children have behavioural difficulties, which are due to different reasons, not all aimed at the parents nurturing skills but other psychological problems that may consist. Managing unwanted behaviour can only take place by using the correct strategies; most strategies in which promote social and emotional development. Anyone working in an early years setting will be aware of the coping strategies and the different behavioural problems, such as hyperactivity, which wont be completely stopped in the setting, but controlled. Some children who have behavioural problems may use aggression when they find them selves in awkward situations, the child cant help how they are acting so it is important that an adult controls them as they may become anxious and scared. Also it is important that the environment is made suitable for the child, and to treat the child ‘differently to the other, giving them a sense of importance and respect. If a child becomes withdraw, its important that they are made to be included with others, as they will fee more equal in a sense that they arent just the naughty child. Conditioning Classical conditioning may influence behaviour in children and how they behave around certain people. For example children will become relaxed and ‘act themselves around friends, but, when they see their head teacher, will become quieter politer and intimidated. This is a natural reaction, as you expect different rules boundaries and happenings with different people, this happens especially in children. Reinforcement Reinforcing good behaviour is done through prizes and rewards. Children prefer to be rewarded with something they love; and not their something they love to be taken away. Reinforcement can be done in many different ways, and by different people in a childs life; for example if a child misbehaves at school, their teacher telling them if they behave to a standard they will receive a prize, rather than telling them if they misbehave they will lose something they enjoy, such as their lunch break. This good behaviour may be reinforced by a reward of a  £5 note if the childs behaviour has been good during the visit, this is an example of reinforcing good behaviour. Social learning Social learning happens through learning oft those in your every day surroundings. Parents are friends are main influences of social learning and they can copy and develop their personalities and actions, for example if a childs older sister, their role model, smokes, they will want to as well; as they see it as correct or ‘cool, thinking doing this will make them more like their role model. Imitation A younger child imitates the other childs behaviour, e.g. a younger child may copy an older childs use of bad language. Role models Children may see members of their family as role models. For instance, an older sibling gets a reputation at school for behaving badly so the younger child feels the need to follow the family tradition by using the other child as a role model. Adults may reinforce this pattern of behaviour by their expectations based on their knowledge of the family. Cognitive and language development Vision Babys visual sensory system isnt fully mature at birth, however during the early years, babies develop and mature eye sight, meaning they are able to physically see, and develop stimuli, causing them to be able to further away. Babies looked at the face-pattern more than anything else presented to them, meaning they become familiar of faces of family members, parents and anyone involved in their early life, rather than other things such as toys, or books. Fantz a child psychologist that I have researched, concluded that babies have an inborn preference to respond to faces and an innate perceptual knowledge of the face. However other studies carried out have shown that babies have a preference for increasingly complex patterns and their capacity for differentiating patterns steadily develops. From Fantzs research he found out that babies at a very young age are aware of colour shape and patterns, and do start to have preferences before they know what something is. Also, his study showed that when a child is learning to speak etc, seeing a shape they like, for example a strawberry, will help them remember, say and understand the word. Hearing From birth babies seem to have an inborn preference for hearing the human voice. Condor and Sanders carried out some experiments on babies that were just a few hours old, and the experiment showed that

Challenges of Public education

America needs solutions Immediately because the gap represents Its future leaders of tomorrow. If thing Is done soon to correct the disturbing trend, the united States will be In danger of falling even further behind other developed countries. The many challenges are frightening: (1 ) too many high school students quit school before graduation, (2) too many high school students graduate without the ability to read or write well, (3) too many high school students are not prepared for the workforce, and (4) too many high school students are not prepared for college.In this short essay, the writer will explain some of the consequences, causes and possible solutions for America's educational dilemma. Consequences of the Problem First, if America's public school leaders don't devise a plan to improve the nation's troubling schools, the consequences will be devastating. Normally, consequences can be traced back to the student's level of education and usually comes to light when making choi ces or decisions.Furthermore, certain characteristics come In play such as a lack of motivation, which may prevent someone from securing a Job because the person wasn't motivated enough to take classes or gain the skills needed for a job. The lack of motivation is a problem in my hometown of Lenore, NC, located in Caldwell County. The county has seen substantial job losses lately because many workers were unqualified to enter into advanced manufacturing methods. As a result, many jobs have been shipped overseas resulting in high unemployment rates within the region.Although the graduation rate in Caldwell County has been rising over the past decade, that wasn't always the case decades ago. The county high school dropout rate was significantly higher approximately 20 years ago, well above the national average. One of the mall reasons was that many furniture factories didn't require a gig school diploma for low-paying and unskilled labor. This statistic isn't to say the workers weren' t Intelligent, only that they weren't motivated enough to Improve themselves when educational opportunities were available.As a result, most of the uneducated factory workers will face high unemployment rate for the rest of their life Probably the most important consequence of failing public schools is that students are not prepared for college upon high school graduation. My dad, a department chair and instructor at a local community college, tells me that a majority f students come to the college unprepared for college-level classes. Most students have to be placed in so-called developmental classes, which don't count as college credit. Plus, the more developmental classes students have to take, the less likely it will be for them to graduate.Therefore, many students drop out of college because they either can't do the college-level work or determine that it will take them too long to graduate. Causes of the Problems Second, in order to address America's public school crisis, it i s first necessary to understand the underlining causes of the problem. For many students, the reason for poor academics can be traced to their own self-esteem. Thus, it is quite possible that the student wasn't challenged enough in school or encouraged enough by the teacher or parent.Without a doubt, a poor teacher has a tremendous impact on the academic achievement of a student. As an example, â€Å"how many times have you heard of students who credit their teacher for their success in life because the teacher believed in them? † Likewise, a dysfunctional home life has a negative effect, as conditions around the home may not conducive to student learning. For instance, if a student can't find a quiet place to read or study without distractions, then it makes it more difficult to learn the subject matter, usually resulting in a lower grade.On the other hand, Sam Dillon of The New York Times concluded that the blame for America's sagging academic achievement does not lie solel y with public schools, but also with dysfunctional families and a culture that undervalues education. Schools are inheriting an over-entertained, distracted student (3). Moreover, first-generation students whose parents never attended college also face numerous obstacles making t more difficult for them to be successful in the classroom. It's really sad that many parents don't care about their child's grades.In doing so, it's the students who suffer at no fault of their own. In addition, low academic standards are a major problem in public schools. Often, too many school systems have set the graduation bar so low that nearly everyone graduates from high school, whether the student is ready or not. Furthermore, many teachers assign students â€Å"busy-work† that's not very challenging. This type of work does nothing to develop critical thinking skills. In laity, low academic standards Oust like student cheating) will only hurt the student in the long run.This loss of knowledge is literally slipping through the student's fingertips without them knowing the harm it causes. Thus, not only is the student harmed, the reputation of the school might be as well. No doubt the academic reputation of a school influences the parent's decision on whether to move into or out of school districts. To the contrary, friends from private schools have told me their academic standards are much higher than public schools, and that their SAT scores are higher on the average too. Perhaps, the main cause of public school failure can be blamed on poverty.Without a doubt, people living in poverty have more important things on their mind than making good grades in school. Parents may be more concerned about rent, groceries, car payments, and less concerned about their children's education. My dad has always told me that there is a direct correlation generally have lower Gaps, while students from wealthier families tend to have higher Gaps. † Unfortunately, this disturbing tre nd has plagued this country for decades, and it doesn't appear to be getting any better. Solutions for ProblemsAlthough the writer suspects that many possible solutions have already been tried to improve our failing public school systems, the state public schools systems may want to try the following innovative solutions: (1) provide students free college tuition for the first two years of college if the student maintains a certain high school GAP (say a B average) and is also able to maintain that same â€Å"B† average in college, and (2) base teacher's bonus on a combination of evaluations done by the students, other teachers, and their own student scores on standardized test.To begin, if the state loud add a motivator or incentive like free college tuition for the first two years of college for any student who maintains a â€Å"B† average in high school, it would greatly improve high school graduation rates. Not only that, more people would graduate with higher-leve l reading, math, and writing skills. Moreover, student debt levels would be much lower (at least 50%) if they attended a four-year college, or have no debt if they went to a two-year community college. It's a win-win situation for the student and school.Also, the state can base a teacher's bonus pay on a combination of students, other cheer evaluations, and their own student scores on standardized test. Initially, students get to evaluate their own teachers. Next, teachers get to rate or evaluate other teachers teaching the same subjects (I. E. , English teachers rating English teachers), since they would probably know which teachers are most respected among their peers. Lastly, the other part of the teacher's bonus could be based on student achievement on standardized test. Combining all three factors together helps determine the teacher bonus for that year.By doing it this way, those superior searchers will be rewarded with higher bonuses, while the underperforming teachers will g et little or no pay bonuses. Then, maybe the underperforming teachers will consider switching Jobs, as students deserve only the best. Likewise, since teachers are considered the backbone of the education systems, the school systems should do all they can to retain the good teachers. While the new pay standard for teacher's bonuses might be difficult to pass (especially with teacher unions and lobbying organizations), the reward may outweigh the risk because outstanding teachers will produce better students.Conclusion America's public educational standards are low compared to other international educational systems. In short, America's high school students Just aren't prepared for college or even high-tech Jobs after entering the workplace after high school. At the very least, public schools need to set the educational bar higher in terms of reading, writing, and math skills. In addition, schools need to hold underperforming teachers accountable. As discussed above, many challenges and factors make it difficult for the school and student to succeed in the classroom.

Climate Change

Topic: â€Å"There is nothing that we as individuals can do to prevent climate change†. During last several decades, industrialization and human activities have produced greenhouse gases (mainly carbon dioxide). These gases make the earth’s temperature higher that leads to more serious events, such as ice smelting, floods, storms and droughts. This is called â€Å"climate change†. Climate change would have significant impacts on environment, economy and the way we live so it needs to be prevented. In my opinion, there are several things that everybody as individual can do to reduce pollution and prevent climate change, including reducing greenhouse gases, saving energies and reducing waste. Firstly, we can use car less by using some alternative means, such as public transport, sharing a ride, walking or cycling. We also can buy locally products so we can reduce goods transportation. Therefore, we can help reduce gas consumption and reduce carbon dioxide. Secondly, we can save energies to decrease the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. For example, we can replace a regular bulb with a compact one; turn off all electrical equipment when they are not in use; wash our clothes in cold water instead of hot water and try to use sun light to dry clothes instead of a dryer. Thirdly, we can limit the amount of waste to reduce pollution. We should recycle many things like paper, cans, and glass bottles and avoid using products with a lot of packaging. We can also use reusable shopping bags instead of plastic bags. These things not only help us save money but we also help protecting environment. For all above reasons, I think everybody as an individual can do many things to prevent climate change.

Clean Edge Razor Splitting Hairs in Product Positioning

Clean Edge Razor Splitting Hairs in Product Positioning Introduction In the year 2007, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Paramount Company established a team that would oversee the development of the company’s new product into the market with the help of technological innovation. This product was meant to be exceptional in the market through gaining a competitive advantage.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Clean Edge Razor: Splitting Hairs in Product Positioning specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The team was made up of expertise from different departments of the company such as production, marketing and R D department. After a thorough evaluation of numerous new designs, they concluded that Paramount company revolutionary product would be ultra-thin, vibrating five-blade design labeled† Clean Edge.† This was done with an aim of the company establishing itself as an innovative leader. The Clean Edge non-disposable razor had attributes that were extrem ely striking and appealing to anyone who would use it. For instance, the handle contained an AAA battery which stimulated the hair follicles upon its vibration (Quelch Becham, 2011, p. 1). Additionally, the razor handle was large and heavier enough to facilitate control, balance and grip while shaving. Similarly, the advanced design (Ultra-thin) of the blade reduced significantly the irritation of the skin. The project team is trying to establish the positioning strategy, marketing, branding and budgeting of the new product in the market so as to attract a wide customer base. The report is going to provide the best solution that needs to be considered if the Clean Edge razor wants to be successful in the market. Discussion Changes have been experienced in various sectors of the non-disposable razor category. For example, this category of razor has continuously recorded an increase in revenue growth. From the year 2007 to 2010, the percentage growth was approximated to be five perce nt (5%) in comparison to 2% of the refill cartridges razors (Quelch Becham, 2011, p.2). The introduction and development of new products has significantly increased the non-disposable razor growth percentage in the market. For instance, Paramount Company has introduced the Clean Edge. Furthermore, the market segment for this type of razor has been categorized into three principal segments taking quality and price into consideration. Under quality, the non-disposable razor category is based on super-premium, moderate and value. The super-premium premium segment in the previous decade has recorded a growth that is significant. This is as a result of the innovation of numerous products including the low resistance blade coating, 5-blade technology, lather bar and glide strips among others. The growth is as shown in the table belowAdvertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Quality volume Dollar Super-premium 25% 34% Moderate 43% 44% Value 32% 22% The above table gives some highlights of the segments retail sales for both the Refill Cartridges and non-disposable razor as per 2009 Data. As compared to previous years, more replacement cartridges and razors were purchased by consumers more often. However, the level of replacement of refill cartridge razors has been negatively affected as a result of product innovations. Advertisements have also affected the benefits accrued from frequent replacement of razors. Assessing and discussing the competitive position of Paramount Competitive positioning is all about how paramount company will differentiate its product in the market as well as create market value for it. This will involve checking on the company’s positioning strategy, market profile, the segment of the customer, SWOT analysis and value proposition. The company offers its consumers with two categories of refill cartridges and non-d isposable razors. The first category is the paramount Pro. This product line is positioned in the product category moderate segment. The second product line is the Paramount Avail. This product is viewed as a value offering. For the past five years, none of the product line has been able to introduce important technological innovations in the market. However, they enabled the company in 2009 to conquer the market leader position in terms of unit-volume. This was in reference to the 23.3% share of retail unit. The company new product â€Å"the Clean Edge† razor has resulted to disagreements in the company among various leaders. Some prefer niche product positioning for the product. This will seek to perfectly satisfy the needs of groomers who are fastidious and highly involved and in need of a powerful shaving experience. Some leaders advocate for mainstream positioning. This aims to focus on the superior advantage of offering its client with close to perfect shave. For exampl e, Rosenberg the Pro manager advocates for the adoption of the niche positioning rather than mainstream positioning. He feels that the adoption of the mainstream positioning will draw off clients from Pro. Additionally, the Pro power will be diluted by such a position and yet it’s the main brand of the company. The end result will be cannibalizing of the company from internal factors. On the other hand, the consideration of the niche positioning will perfectly promote the company’s product portfolio. Kim the corporate company market director argues that, the adoption of niche positioning will only satisfy an individual desire rather than the overall company performance (Quelch Becham, 2011, p.5). As a result of advanced technology, consumers have become more sophisticated and are in dire need of technological innovative products which Pro does not provide. The main reason is that Pro has already reached the maturity stage in terms of product life cycle and it’s expected to decline.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Clean Edge Razor: Splitting Hairs in Product Positioning specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Therefore, the application of the mainstream positioning to position Clean Edge will be valuable to the company. For instance, it will aid in preventing customers that are loyal to Paramount Company from being persuaded by brands that are more innovative. Clean Edge as the company’s new product has the potential of dominating in the market and therefore needs mainstream positioning. Analyzing the non-disposable razor market consumer behavior and segmentation The non-disposable razor market has been split into three based on quality and price. We have the super-premium segment, the value segment and the moderate segment. The super-premium has continuously experienced growth in terms of customer base and sales volume. This is attributed to product innovation in this se gment as compared to the other segments. As a result of innovation, numerous products are available in the market. These are such as the glide strips and lather bar types of non-disposable razor just to mention a few. From the 2009 research study conducted by Paramount, it was clear that there was an increase in the purchase of the replacement cartridges and razors as compared to other years. However, the company executives feel that the cycle of replacement has been affected as results of consumers need to try out products that are new in the market. The consumer intimacy with products varies from one consumer to another. There are those who are loyal to a product and cannot be persuaded to purchase any new product in the market. These consumers in the razor market are labeled as† maintenance shavers† and they are never concerned with any product category. On the contrary, the consumers who are interested in product category can be divided into various groups such as ae sthetic and emotional/ social shavers. These groups are anxious and are willing to act as a guinea pig when it comes to testing of new products in the market. The shavers who are emotional always gain motivation from the overall experience of shaving whilst the other group gets carried away by the outcome of the cosmetics (Aesthetic shavers). The increased demand for super-segment products will increase the sales of Paramount Company as it aims to put its new product† Clean Edge† along that product line. As a result of the introduction of this product into the market, the company will need to channel most of its resources into advertising in order to trigger demand. Arguments for Clean Edge Launching There exist two positions when it comes to launching of the Paramount new product: â€Å"Clean Edge†. There are those who are for mainstream positioning, whereas, there are those proposing the niche product position.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Niche product position: The Company CEO Mr. Randall recommends this position for the Clean Edge product. This is because of its focus on groomers that are fastidious and highly involved customers. These groomers are often pursuing a shaving experience that is more superior. Mainstream product position: This position aims at Paramount advantage of presenting the closest promising shave. In order to come up with a financial forecast that perfectly fits the above options, Randal the Company’s CEO made consultations with the manufacturing and marketing project team. While doing this, the effects of cannibalization were taken into consideration. A hotly contested debate arose whilst a meeting was held with regards to the above product position. This was between the company’s (Paramount) newly hired director of corporate marketing and Pros product Paramount manager Mr. William Kem and Albert Rosenberg respectively. Kim is in charge of the company’s non-disposable razo r group while Rosenberg is in charge of the grooming division. The two managers hold different views regarding the positioning of Clean Edge product. Rosenberg considers niche-positioning strategy while Kim supports mainstream positioning strategy. According to Rosenberg, mainstream positioning strategy will draw away clients from Pro product line. Furthermore, it will weaken the power of the brand (Pro) which is the superior product of the company. In his view, niche-positioning strategy will aid in complementing perfectly the company’s available product portfolio. This view is highly disputed by Kim. He thinks that Rosenberg is interested in fulfilling his desires rather than the company’s interest. Given the fact that the consumers are more complicated thus, expecting more advanced products in terms of technology, then mainstream position is highly recommended for Clean Edge. The use of this positioning will help in preventing Paramount customers that are loyal from being persuaded to consume brands that are more innovative. Therefore, this is viewed by Kim as the perfect positioning as the product has the potential of dominating in the market and mainstream position will help meet the achievement of this goal. Recommendation for Randal regarding the Argument Situation From the above argument, I would recommend Randal as the Chief Executive Officer of Paramount Company to apply mainstream positioning. This is because of its potential in Clean Edge super-premium segment. As a result, the new product will be the men standard shaving and would rapidly gain a competitive advantage in the market. Nevertheless, Randall has to take into consideration the overall company best possible positioning strategy. This is because the mainstream positioning strategy will be highly refuted by Rosenberg the product managers for the company’s Pro’s product. Therefore, Randall has to consider launching the product as a niche product. This should be d one for one year and not more than two years to satisfy Rosenberg and create a good working relationship in the company. Therefore, a simple pro forma should be established by Randall for purposes of identifying the cannibalization impact on paramount product line (Avail and Pro). Additionally, Randall should come up with contingency plans to deal with any challenges that might occur. This will aid in coming up with a decision that is more informed about the positioning of the product and identifying the perfect name of the brand and recommendations on the budget. Brand name for the company The identity of any product is what is known as brand name. It is often specific to a manufacture, a company or a producer. Brand name helps in differentiating similar products in the market such as the non-disposable razor. It is extremely important for a company to own a brand name if a company wants to survive in the aggressive business environment. Therefore, the selection of a brand name sho uld be done keenly. As the product identity and image highly depends on it. Brand name indicates product ownership. Given the current heavy marketing world, very distinct companies sell products that are similar. These products can only be differentiated through the use of a brand name which is unique to a company and easy to recognize. The loyalty of the customers largely depends on the name of the brand. Therefore, these customers will prefer products from a specific company. This is because they are well conversant about their products quality and price. Therefore, I recommend the use of â€Å"Paramount Clean Edge† as it highlights the company as the owner of the product. Market Budgeting Allocations In order to have a Clean Edge successful launch in the market, a significant market budget allocation will be needed. Therefore, for the first year, a total of fifteen million dollars ($15M) will be required for the niche positioning strategy. On the other hand, to maximize on the mainstream position full potential a marketing budget of forty two million dollars ($ 42M) will be required. Therefore, if Clean Edge is launched as a mainstream product, more marketing support will be needed. Despite this being expensive, I recommend mainstream position to be adopted as the market launching strategy. This is because of the underlying reasons. To begin with, the unit volumes for mainstream razors are expected in the first year to capture more than three times the volumes made by niche positioning. As a result, an advertising campaign that is more intensive will be required to capture the wide customer base. Moreover, trade and consumer promotion events will be mandatory and the numerous expenses that will be incurred will be based on volumes. The Key New Product Development lessons learned from the case Analysis From the case, analysis, there are numerous lessons that I have learned. For instance, in order for a company to come up with a new product in the mark et, a group of various experts needs to come together and offer their knowledge. Furthermore, the product should be developed using advanced technology as consumers are becoming more sophisticated. When it comes to market segmentation, there are those consumers who are loyal to a product to the extent that they are not interested in emerging products in the market. A part from the loyal customers, we have those customers who are emotional and aesthetic. These categories of consumers are always ready to experiment with any new product in the market. In a company, arguments are bound to arise when it comes to making decisions regarding the developed product. For example, in terms of positioning, there will be those who will advocate for mainstream product positioning whilst there are those who will go for niche product positioning. Therefore, as a company executive, one needs to do a cost benefit analysis before making any informed decision. A part from positioning, branding can also be a greatest challenge. Before, a brand name can be identified, some arguments have to exist. All in all, what the company really needs is for its product to improve on the sales volume and increase the number of its customers. Reference Quelch, J. A Becham, H 2011, Clean Edge Razor: Splitting hairs in product positing, Brief Cases, 1 (2), pp. 1-10.

Barium Facts - Periodic Table of the Elements

Barium Facts - Periodic Table of the Elements Atomic Number 56 Symbol Ba Atomic Weight 137.327 Discovery Sir Humphrey Davy 1808 (England) Electron Configuration [Xe] 6s2 Word Origin Greek barys, heavy or dense Isotopes Natural barium is a mixture of seven stable isotopes. Thirteen radioactive isotopes are known to exist. Properties Barium has a melting point of 725Â °C, a boiling point of 1640Â °C, and a specific gravity of 3.5 (20Â °C), with a valence of 2. Barium is a soft metallic element. In its pure form, it is silvery white. The metal oxidizes readily and should be stored under petroleum or other oxygen-free liquids. Barium decomposes in water or alcohol. Impure barium sulfide phosphoresces following exposure to light. All barium compounds that are soluble in water or acid are poisonous. Uses Barium is used as a getter in vacuum tubes. Its compounds are used in pigments, paints, glassmaking, as weighting compounds, in the manufacture of rubber, in rat poison, and in pyrotechnics. Sources Barium is only found combined with other elements, primarily in barite or heavy spar (sulfate) and witherite (carbonate). The element is prepared by the electrolysis of its chloride. Element Classification Alkaline-earth Metal Density (g/cc) 3.5 Melting Point (K) 1002 Boiling Point (K) 1910 Appearance soft, slightly malleable, silver-white metal Atomic Radius (pm) 222 Atomic Volume (cc/mol) 39.0 Covalent Radius (pm) 198 Ionic Radius 134 (2e) Specific Heat (20Â °C J/g mol) 0.192 Fusion Heat (kJ/mol) 7.66 Evaporation Heat (kJ/mol) 142.0 Pauling Negativity Number 0.89 First Ionizing Energy (kJ/mol) 502.5 Oxidation States 2 Lattice Structure Body-Centered Cubic Lattice Constant (Ã…) 5.020 References: Los Alamos National Laboratory (2001), Crescent Chemical Company (2001), Langes Handbook of Chemistry (1952), CRC Handbook of Chemistry Physics (18th Ed.)

Time is money Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Time is money - Essay Example The writer loves food so he learnt to cook. However, his musician friend rather chooses to pay for his lunch so as to be able to spend more time doing what he loves to do, which is music. According to writer, people spend their scarce time and money on doing things that endow them with higher utility or provide them with a relatively higher remuneration. Nobody has enough time and money to invest them on learning everything. That is why people choose to pay others for the products and services they avail from them, by spending the money they earn doing things they love to do or that provide them with a higher remuneration. Division of labor is the direct outcome of the scarcity of time and resources. The given article teaches much about the opportunity cost. Thereby, as per the article, if a person chooses to do the work he loves, she is not left with enough time to spend it on learning a variety of other things. Hence, to be able to do the things a person loves, one has to forgo doing many other things, which is the opportunity cost of choosing to do one specific thing. Hence, while procuring services, people act as the typical economic man and resort to rational thinking. They clearly assort the objectives they intend to achieve in life and allocate their time and money in a way that harmonizes with and furthers the objectives they intend to achieve in life. For example a musician may choose to learn to play guitar instead of learning to cook or repair cars, because she loves music and it is her profession. To make the best use of their time and money, people resort to trade offs and chose the best possible alternatives that suit their liking and pocket, while choosing a profe ssion or acquiring skills. With the money they earn for this work, they prefer to pay people who specialize in other vocations or skills, which they don’t know and don’t have the time to or aptitude learn. This article also teaches much about the scarcity or limited nature

THEMES IN U.S. & WORLD HISTORY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

THEMES IN U.S. & WORLD HISTORY - Essay Example Diffusion refers to the process through which cultural items such as styles, ideas, values, and languages spread among individuals either within a single culture or from one culture to the other. Egyptian religion, for instance, is one of the most prominent symbols of Ancient Egypt. Primeval Egypt is one of the most powerful ancient civilizations that had a huge influence on the world. The king, or the Pharaoh, had the ultimate authority over both religious and political matters. Ancient Egyptians were able to exert influence to the world with their religion through the process of transcultural diffusion. This entailed sharing religious values with members of other culture during their interactions in areas such as business, education, and intermarriages. Historical diffusion of the Egyptian religion is one of the best examples of how human beings living in different parts of the world are connected throughout human history. The Egyptian religion, for instance, was able to expand to other places and parts of the world through traders, immigrants, missionaries, and warriors. The Egyptian religion was able to diffuse through the chariot as people moved from one place to the other. Missionaries and traders in the 13th century travelled around the world sharing religious views. Other communities adopted the Egyptian religion and incorporated some of the elements of the religion in their own culture. They did not, however discard their own religious views totally, but only took certain elements of the religion. This led to mixed religious views, which were common during the 13th century as people from different communities interacted. Historical characteristic of Egyptian religion such as religious beliefs and values can be found in other ancient communities such as among the Greeks, Chines and some parts of Europe. The two most significant geographical or environmental factors that contributed to expansion and development of the US are the Gold Rush