Life of Pi and Religion

In the first part of Life of Pi, Pi Patel tells the reader about important memories from his childhood before the ship accident and his adventure as a castaway at sea. It is from these memories that we see a real development of Pi's character; we come to better understand his thoughts and standings on life, religion, and the knowledge he gained from his family and others. One of his many musings about religion and the integration of it into our lives appears in Chapter 22, where he describes the end of two individuals lives. Both see a white light overtaking them. One person recognizes that it is God, in one form or another, overtaking them and drawing them in from their moral life, and they become believers. The other stays stubborn in his scientific reasoning, and dismisses the white light as a visual phenomenon that is caused by a lack of oxygen to his central nervous system. Pi does not necessarily dismiss either as false, but claims that the scientific person â€Å"lack(ed) imagination and miss(ed) the better part of the story. This is precisely one of the major ideas of Life of Pi, that despite what life throws at you, you can choose how you perceive reality and make a better story out of it, should you choose to do so. Pi sees religion as one of the greatest ways to engage the human imagination and take full advantage of life. It would appear as though Pi is claiming that even if religion isn't true, it is more exciting to live your life as though it were than to live with the mind of an atheist, that there is a â€Å"better story† through a life of religion. And this may well be true, that belief in a higher purpose is more fulfilling than belief in our existence being a natural phenomenon devoid of God. But if you choose religion to be your â€Å"story,† then does it truly become reality? In the case of Pi, he tells us that we can shape our reality. But to truly analyze this statement, we must define reality. Though Pi suggests that reality is a truth based on personal perspective, common sense affirms otherwise. There is reality, in the sense of what truly has taken place, and there is what people believe, they can be unified or separate of one another, but to be both would be a paradox. If there were no reality underlying life, then we would need no judicial systems in the world, for certainly if the accused believes they are innocent, then we should not dare call them false by the convictions of our own reality. No one could lie either, for reality would be relative to perspective and one cannot expect his or her own reality to align with the other party's reality. Furthermore, we could not chastise children for stealing from one another, for they truly believe that they should take what they want, and we must not punish them for simply living out their own reality. There is much â€Å"meat† lacking in Pi's statement, but such is to be expected in his case. It is important to consider one fact in all that he says-the story's setting is during his childhood. For one so young in the world, he speaks rather firmly on some considerable matters, of religion and how to live a fulfilling life. Pi talks as though he had lived a lifetime-worth of social and religious observations that give him qualification to speak so adamantly. Yet he is not stubborn, or narrow-minded, he simply has faith in himself. This mindset of faith in self can be expected from a person of any religion, which includes Pi since, basically, he has created a religion of his own, one that involves the idea of incorporating other religions. More importantly, children also hold this view, a belief in their own perspective. The story with the animals is certainly the more preferable story to read. If the book were made from the second story, it would be quite boring. But this is not to say that the second story is not the better one. Yann Martel simply chose to write the first one with more embellishment and elements that create a good story, a more positive story of steadfast courage and personal triumph. He wrote the second story to sound blockish, horrid, and unpleasantly real. The second story is the reality and the first one is Pi's askew take on reality. I do however think that if you incorporate the first story into the character of Pi in the second story, therefore making the second story more â€Å"story-like† by giving Pi characterization, the second story would be the better one, and the most real. It would be a tale of a castaway, who must endure the mutilation of other castaways, one being his mother, at the hand of a deranged Frenchman, who evidentially dies, leaving the boy alone in the lifeboat. But through all of this, the boy imagines that he is sailing on an incredible journey with animals, and they see many wondrous things, and through his struggles comes to look back on the journey as the one with animals, and not the horrid truth. Ah, but wait-that is the true story of the Life of Pi, the third story, the one that is not told explicitly but is instead derived by the combining of truth and perspective to mold an ultimate reality.

Characters important in the novel? Essay

1. 2. Steinbeck uses Crooks to show the loneliness of itinerant workers and the power of ‘the dream’. The harsh way in which he is treated by other characters indicates a strong sense of racism in America in the 1930s. 3. 4. Racism is an important theme in the novel due to an excess of prejudice towards black men and women in America during the 1930s. Crooks is ostracised at the ranch and is a victim of extreme violence because of the colour of his skin, â€Å"Smitty says he would have killed the nigger†¦ He [Candy] paused in relish of the memory. † Candy, who is seemingly a harmless old man â€Å"relishes† the thought of the stable buck being harmed and smiles in delight over the memory. This depicts an America where racism is socially acceptable and is an everyday occurrence with casual degrading racism by referring to Crooks as a â€Å"nigger† whose opinion is deemed worthless, â€Å"If I say something, why its just a nigger sayin’ it†- the oppression has caused him to become angry and at the same time pity himself in the idea that his is regarded as inferior. The fact that he begins to pity himself accentuates the severity of the racism, as the effect is so detrimental to him (and all black people) that he loses hope of ever attaining freedom. Furthermore, when we are made aware of his possessions, we are told of his owning a shotgun, illustrating a scenario where he may be abused to the extent that he is forced to use it out of self-defence. 5. When Lennie inquires as to why Crooks â€Å"ain’t wanted†, he replies â€Å"cause I’m black†¦ They say I stink. † The white people act as though it is offensive to them to have the stable buck in the bunk house and is a disgrace for him to be in their presence. Lennie, who is unaware of racism, is Steinbeck’s way of displaying that is not necessary as a white and black man can get along well. However the author does this to show us that the racism is out of ignorance and out of a need for power as the depression has left them with nothing. There is an element of irony here as Crooks â€Å"has books† and a â€Å"tattered dictionary† which shows he regularly uses it to expand his vocabulary, indicating that he is better educated than the other workers. This is important as it displays that he is in fact not inferior and does not deserve to be treated as though he is. Steinbeck’s intention here is to show the reader that the prejudice is ignorant and even though he is more intelligent than the white men he is still mistreated, depicting a society where racism is integral. 6. 7. The treatment Crooks receives on a daily basis is one surrounded by racial prejudice and acts of violence towards him. Nonetheless, when Candy enters his room infatuated by the dream, his demeanor is significantly more friendly. This shows that ‘the dream’ is very powerful and is able to break the racial barriers between the men. The stable buck’s response however, is somewhat cynical- â€Å"you guys just kiddin’ yourself†, expressing his lack of belief due to futile attempts at realising his own dream and seeing â€Å"too many guys† suffer the same fate. 8. Although Crooks is mocking of their dream, when Candy notes they â€Å"got the money right now† he expresses his desire to â€Å"come an’ lend a hand†, even though he has reason to doubt their talk of a farm of their own. This conveys his yearning to belong and the fact that he is beginning to become accepted by other workers sees the start of his dream unfolding. 9. 10. 11. Crooks is used by Steinbeck to represent the extremity of loneliness of itinerant ranch life in America. Before encountering Crooks we are made aware that at Christmas â€Å"Smitty took after the nigger† showing how he is constantly living in fear of others and is forced into a life of loneliness and segregation. We see that this violence has led him to isolate himself and become an â€Å"aloof man†; for the most part he is left alone in the stable, however when Lennie enters the harness room, â€Å"Crooks said sharply, ‘You got no right to come into my room’ † He is instantly suspicious of any kindness and anyone, due to past experiences of prejudice, and the extent of this suspicion is seen through â€Å"Crooks said sharply† as though he is almost resentful of company as he is accustomed to being alone. 12. Steinbeck uses Crooks to bring into perspective the loneliness experienced by all ranch hands during the depression as they migrate to find work. â€Å"A guy needs someone – to be near him. A guy goes nuts if he ain’t got nobody†¦I tell ya, a guy gets too lonely, an’ he gets sick† He is telling Lennie of the need for human interaction and to have someone to care for you and provide security. Crooks is talking mainly of his own experience and how the oppression of living in the barn and not being allowed to â€Å"play rummy ‘cause you was black† has shaped his cynical character. The fact that he is disheartened by not being included in rummy games and decides not to discuss the violence against him shows his desperation to be realised as an equal within society. However this may also be interpreted as being a generalisation as he speaks of â€Å"a guy†, Steinbeck includes this to show how it can relate to everyone during this time. 13. 14. 15. Crooks is treated as inferior and this has led him to become an aloof character who isolates himself from others and is used by Steinbeck to represent the loneliness experienced by all itinerant ranch hands in America during the depression. The sense of the stable buck being inferior is shown when he is physically and verbally abused by being called â€Å"a nigger† indicating the prominence of racism in America, this is important as it allows Steinbeck to explore the paradox of America with the land of freedom and hope being stained with racism. Furthermore, the fact that Crooks is forced to live apart from the white workers accentuates the idea of racial segregation during the 1930s as he, and by extension all blacks are seen as a disgrace. Additionally, the change in attitude towards Crooks by Candy from â€Å"relishing† his pain to inviting him into the dream is used to show the power of the dream. Riken Shah 11S Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE John Steinbeck section.

The new Jim Crow: Mass incarceration in the age of colorblindness Essay

Correctional Policies Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Correctional policies are the mechanisms put in place to act as rehabilitative guides on offenders and criminals. Based on the restorative theory of justice, several policies are developed to act as guide for administration of justice to all. Restorative principles strive to renew personal damages and communal relationships. Victims are the point of focus and the major goal is to heal and renew the personal well-being and retain the offender’s dignity and trust in the community (Furio, 2007). For instance, victims and offenders participation should be based on voluntary free and informed consent. They must be offered a comprehensible explanation about the process, what is likely to occur because of their participation and the condition at which the free consent may be withdrawn.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The participants in a case must accept the essential truth of the offence and admit the responsibility arising from the offence (Furio, 2007). Additionally, these facts should offer adequate evidence to proceed with the charge and law must not bar the prosecution for the offence alongside granting each participant right to seek legal advice before and at all stages of the process.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Restorative justice may take place at all phase of criminal justice system starting from pre-charge, sentencing and release from custody (Furio, 2007). However, the compatibility of the policies find a divers application on different cases. It is best applicable in criminal offences but finds limitations in traffic offences. It is evident that most of the crimes are committed by the youth. This may be accredited to the fact that the offending peak is in the late adolescence. There exist conspicuous discrepancies in the juvenile justice systems whose explanations remain a myth to scholars.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   According to Alexander (2010), USA has two systems of justice, one for privileged class of whites and the other for the disadvantaged blacks. This discrimination was demonstrated in 1980s during cocaine crack down that majorly involved black minors. This discrimination is based on color and socioeconomic status of both American whites and blacks (Alexander, 2010). References Alexander, M. (2010). The new Jim Crow: Mass incarceration in the age of colorblindness. New York: New Press. Furio, J. (2007). Restorative justice: Prison as Hell or a Chance for Redemption. New York: Algora Pub. Source document

The US Dollar will lose its status as the world's reserve currency Term Paper

The US Dollar will lose its status as the world's reserve currency within the foreseeable future - Term Paper Example 8 Gilpin, R. & Gilpin, J. M. International economics: in the age of globalization. USA: Orient Blackswan, 2001. 8 Mankiw, N. G. Principles of Economics. USA: Cengage Learning, 2008. 8 Introduction US Dollar had historically been one of the sturdiest of all currencies around the world. Post World War II, when almost all nations around the world were suffering from dwindling resource endowments, they jointly decided to frame a monetary policy which would tie their respective national currencies with the US Dollar. Such a policy was set in order to strengthen the feeble currencies through tying the rates at which they could be exchanged. However with the passage of time, the stability feature assigned with the US dollars is reckoned to fade away especially after the inception of the Euro zone during late 1990s and after the economy was victimised by the subprime crisis. At present there are many claimants of the fact that the US dollar is about to lose its value as a stable reserve curr ency. Purpose of the present paper will be to enlist the arguments posed in favour of the aforementioned assertion. US Dollar is losing its status as the world’s reserve currency Euro had been getting closer to the US Dollars in terms of bank note circulation. Since its inception during the latter years of 1990s, the currency is found to be soaring high in terms of popularity especially among the Asian nations where almost two-thirds of total Euro bank notes in circulation are concentrated. The table alongside displays ample information to establish Euro is fast surpassing Dollars in terms of its circulation. To emphasise, stock of Euro has increased by 7 percent between 1999 and 2003 while that of Dollars has receded by 6.7 percent between 2001 and 2006. The diagram alongside shows the extents to which different foreign reserves are found to be growing over the years. Growth in Euro is witnessed as reaching a peak during 2002 and exceeding the corresponding rate for US Dolla rs (Becker 3). â€Å"With the creation of the euro in 1999, and the growth of the US external debt and current account deficits since then, the economic appeal of the dollar as an international currency has become less distinctive† (Helleiner, 367). In fact, during the post Euro era, the position of US dollar has been fast depreciating owing to the fall in its store of value and liquidity. A downfall in the degree of liquidity of the currency accounts for the huge sums of US Dollar reserves that East Asian nations reserve had been maintaining in their reserves; this specifically is the reason behind a fall in the US Dollar circulation (Helleiner, 368). Prior to the introduction of Euro, US Dollars assumed the topmost position in the international arena. This was primarily due to the existence of distinct currencies throughout Europe that transaction via US Dollars was associated with a certain degree of economies of scale. However, after Euro was introduced to the world, a ch unk of the world’s important foreign market came to be expressed in terms of Euro and thus, US Dollars lost the economies of scale they used to enjoy previously. An important reason why US Dollars has been diminishing in value in comparison to Euro is that, the latter now represents a chunk of the European continent. This chunk now symbolizes a large unit of the entire global market which is found to be beating that of USA even. Hence, in most of the cases, commodities and services which are available in both markets are denominated in terms

Critically evaluate the idea that increasing self-esteem is associated Essay

Critically evaluate the idea that increasing self-esteem is associated with better academic performance - Essay Example However the same holds true for adults who are under the aegis of an educational institution. The paper has taken a deep and incisive look at the psychological aspects which have both benefited and hampered the academic performance ranks of the students. Self-esteem and self-awareness are important tenets of an individual who is willing to gain an insight as per his actions, behaviors and manifestations. Academic performance is the sole domain of a student who wants to achieve success within his educational curriculum so that his future life could be secured. This, he does in order to have an educational pattern which is filled with success right from the outset of his acquiring the same. Therefore it is pretty important to suggest that academic performance depends a great deal on the way the students perceive their own lives and see this within the contexts of their perceptional abilities and self-esteem issues. However these could easily be marred by the consistent self-denial representations of the wrongs that hamper any student at a given time or even the misquoted ideals that have sprung up with the passage of time. All of these topics are deemed as significant when one tries to measure the righteousness of a student’s a cademic abilities and skills in the long run. Low self-esteem is indeed an epidemic, more so because it asks of the student to display a sense of negativity related with his own educational journey (Baumeister et al, 2003). When the same is measured from an academic performance yardstick, there are serious shortfalls which could easily be highlighted. These include the exact patterns as to how the student fell from a position of significance within the educational realms to one of an area of inferiority. Also the exact rationale for his jealousy with regards to other students is ascertained and the logical conclusions are drawn up in the light of the same. There are other avenues where global and

Should women be allowed in combat Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Should women be allowed in combat - Essay Example Others suggest that women are not fit for combat service and are a detriment to the effectiveness of any fighting force. The truth is that women should not be permitted to serve in the armed forces in combat roles even should they wish to do so. Another argument, which is not currently relevant but which may occur at any time, is whether or not women should be drafted into the armed forced should a draft be reinstated. This raises interesting issues. In the course of this paper I will examine some of the objections to the idea of women serving in the armed forces and I will conclude by discussing the potential issues around a draft. The preponderance of evidence suggests that women are ill-suited for combat missions. Gender roles have changed a great deal in the decades since the 1960s when women began to enter the workforce in droves. The rise of human rights law required companies and the government to find ways to accommodate women, who were often unable to display the same streng th as men. Firefighting units altered their training regimes, for example, in order to accommodate women. All of these things are impressive achievements. We should celebrate the continued integration of our wives, sister, daughters, and mothers into society at large and into the workplace. Women need to play a more substantial and significant role in the world. But where can that line be drawn? Critics of deploying women in combat roles point to the various accommodations made to women in different sectors of society. They suggest that there is no room for accommodations in wartime. It would be nice to have more physically disabled people on the battlefield in order to encourage diversity, but they would compromise the mission. Only the most physically and mentally fit individuals should form the tip of the spear, the combat units that make up the military. This is the crux of the opposition to women in the military. In the American military today, women are not involved in combat roles. They make up only around 14 percent of the active Army (Army.mil). Catherine Ross served in Iraq as a civil affairs sergeant attached to a combat brigade and argued recently that women should be allowed to serve in combat roles. While in Iraq, I was directly attached to an infantry battalion. I went everywhere they did, lived as they did and faced the same dangers they did every time I went â€Å"outside the wire† to conduct infrastructure assessments, which was nearly every day. There is nothing special or unique about what I experienced. Many female soldiers have been or currently are in the same situation — going outside the wire and facing the possibility of I.E.D.’s, small arms fire and more. The fact is that as â€Å"support† we end up attached to infantry, artillery and other combat arms units, and make enemy contact. Despite this, I was blind to the big picture. I suppose I had just guzzled down the Kool-Aid and drove on. It took getting ou t of the Army for me to see how women in the military are truly viewed and treated (Ross). With due respect to Ms. Ross, her observations do not make an especially strong case for allowing to fight in the military. She may have returned in one piece from Iraq, but despite the fact that she was in a combat zone she did not have to survive the stress and difficulty of engaging the enemy in a combat sense. There are a number of powerful arguments which she overlooks when

Fundamentals of Business Law and Ethics Discussion Essay

Fundamentals of Business Law and Ethics Discussion - Essay Example Most questions assume that the home owner is in a condominium that must be governed by the Condominium Act. The main use of the Services by all the Members, is a subject to all the applicable local, national, state, and international rules and regulations as well as the required laws. The tagged reserves the right, and does not assume any duty, to monitor the Services to enforce this Agreement. While learning of all the violation of this Agreement. It is tagged at its sole discretion that is terminated in the access to and use of the Services that is required that one corrects such violation, or take any other required actions that Tagged the most appropriate and enforce the basic rights and pursue all the available remedies. For instance, this is a private and civil type of laws .Gun owners tend to make the legal purchases that are required to pass a federal background-check and in most countries must meet most of the standards that obtain and carry or provide permission such as age and training. Public and civil type of laws. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits most discrimination in hiring, and promoting, discharging, paying, fringe benefits, providing job training, classification, referral, and other aspects of employment, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Minimum wage in Ohio increases by 15 cents an hour. Policy Matters Ohio, a non-partisan organization that studies Ohios economy, says the increase will boost the wages of more than 277,000 Ohio workers. Voters in Ohio approved a constitutional amendment in 2006 that calls for annual increases in the hourly wage. In 2011, Governor Kasich created CSI and placed it under my leadership, and since that time we have been moving forward to streamline Ohio’s business regulations and help make Ohio more business-friendly. This report highlights our efforts in 2013 to build on the accomplishments of CSI’s first two years, and is tied to the goals

Research Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Research Project - Essay Example These sources of energy, particularly oil, have also been associated with water pollution as well as destruction of marine life and diversity through oil spills in oceans, seas, rivers and lakes among others. Even most of the existing renewable sources energies such as geothermal, wind and hydroelectric have been extremely expensive to install. In addition, these sources of energies are normally extremely affected by changes in weather conditions. Also, their abundance as compared to that of the solar energy is limited. Due to the problems associated with the available sources energies such as fossil fuels, nuclear, wind, hydroelectric and geothermal, the use of solar energy is becoming popular in most parts of the world, particularly in China and Africa (House-Soremekun & Falola 2011). The solar energy seems to the source of energy that is more sustainable as compared to other sources of energy (Richards 2010). This paper, therefore, aims at discussing the use of solar energy in Afr ica and basics of this source of energy. Africa receives more solar radiation than any other continent in the world, thereby making it the continent with the greatest potential than any other continent in the world. Sun shine in Arica is virtually uninterrupted, and one of the most abundant energy resources in the continent. However, this precious source of power has not been fully exploited in the continent for number years. Despite the abundance of this energy resource, it is estimated that about 2 billion individuals (people) in world (most of them from Africa) either struggle or fail to meet their daily energy requirements due to scarcity of supply of energy (Richards 2010). Even though there has been reluctance in the harvesting of solar energy in Africa, the situation seemed to have change to day since a number of organizations in Africa as well as African governments have been turning their attention towards renewable and sustainable sources of energy. Amongst the renewable s ources of energy that have been greatly focused by the African countries is solar energy. Africa as continent has made number of milestone towards harvesting solar energy. For example, the headquarters of United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) based in Nairobi (Kenya) is fully powered by solar energy (House-Soremekun & Falola 2011). Further according to House-Soremekun & Falola (2011), South Africa and Ghana are also planning to build amongst the biggest solar power plants in the world. Solar energy is also known as the radiant light, and it is referred to as heat energy from the sun (Richards 2010). This energy can be converted by different transducers to produce different sources of energy. For example, solar energy can be converted directly to electric energy by use of solar cells (also known as Photovoltaic). This particularly important for small scale energy requirements such as for watches and calculators. The solar energy can also be directly used to heat water for both domestic and industrial use. In addition, solar energy can be used to produce large amounts of solar energy through the use of solar radiation concentrators such as parabolic troughs. We have discussed how solar energy is converted into electric energy or used as heat energy to heat water among others (Hantula 2010). The question that might probably be lingering in the mind of the reader is how this precious energy is formed

Coursework Critical Analysis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Critical Analysis - Coursework Example This is due to rapid increase in refugee numbers and interference with relief supply routes. This has resulted in malnutrition in the camp that is threatening to reach critical levels. Obviously the methods mentioned above are best applied to children below the age of 12. It is quite ambitious to target the entire population with anthropometric measurements but this is not the best approach. First of all, the method is quite disruptive and is akin to bring all the activities in the camp to a halt as the entire population is targeted. Taking samples of the children will live adults especially en, to go on with their lives as best they can. Secondly, children are a good indicator of the levels of malnutrition since they are usually the worst affected exhibiting symptoms that are not very manifest in adults as they have not fully developed immunity to basic health problems. For instance, adults have stores of body protein in the labile amino acid pool which is primarily used as energy when the individual is starving. Such storage is very minimal or nonexistent in children (Rowett, 2010). It is inevitable that anthropometric methods will need to be employed to determine how acute the situation is for government interventions. Given the situation, the most effective measurement that can be used is the Middle-Upper Arm Circumference [Muac] to establish the level of malnutrition in the camp (Mother Child Nutrition, 2010). Using other methods such as the Body Mass Index (BMI); which estimate nutritional health by calculating the body weight of an individual divided by the square of his height; is not reliable in this case since it is limited to adults. The method is not directly applied to children since they are still growing and have thus not attained their full height. As indicated earlier, children are usually the most affected by malnutrition in any given population hence this method would leave them out

King Lear Paper Essay Example for Free

King Lear Paper Essay Shakespeare’s play King Lear documents the life a man who experiences a dramatic shift in worldview. The main character, King Lear, begins the play as a self-centered, proud, and materialistic man who cares less about his family than his reputation. By the end of the story, Lear is a humbled man who cares for his family more than his previously precious power. Lear’s strife broke him down until he was finally able to let go of his old perceptions and adopt a better outlook on life. Shakespeare chronicles Lear’s change from selfish to caring throughout the course of the story, and shows how the hardest of times can actually bring out the best in a person. Lear’s old worldview places more importance on superficial, material things than on sincere and important values. At the beginning of the play, Lear was very concerned with maintaining his vast wealth, status, and power. When Lear was dividing up his kingdom among his three daughters, he gave the most land to the daughters who flattered him the most. Lear welcomed the flattery because it made him feel like a strong and powerful king. When Lear’s eldest daughters, Goneril and Regan, flattered him the most, Lear split the kingdom between them because they made him feel powerful. Lear completely disregarded and actually disowned his youngest daughter Cordelia because she refused to falsely over-flatter the king. Cordelia was just being honest in her modest praises of the king, but Lear wanted to hear more about how great of a ruler he was. So, when Cordelia didn’t make Lear feel big enough, he undermined even his so-called â€Å"strong† family values and disowned his favorite child. At this point in the play, Lear didn’t have a strong grasp on the important things in life, like genuine relationships or truthfulness and loyalty. King Lear tells Cordelia’s prospective husband to â€Å"†¦leave her, sir; for, by the power that made me, I tell you all her wealth† (1.1.207) Lear means that Cordelia is not worth anything anymore because she has inherited no land in the kingdom. This goes to show how much importance Lear places on material possessions, because he calls his daughter worthless when she owns no land. King Lear’s humbled worldview at the end of the play is miles different than from the materialistic worldview he abided by before. Throughout the course of play, Lear’s troubles taught him to value people more than physical things. Lear ended up losing all of his land, money and power- the three things that were most important to him at the start of the story. Lear was left with nothing that made him the man his old ideals told him to be, so he had to shift his values to fit his new predicament. This shocking change forced Lear to humble himself and focus on the lasting things in life, namely relationships. As the play unfolded, Lear felt more and more remorse for disowning Cordelia, because he realized how important family really was. Lear said of his regret, â€Å"I am a very foolish fond old man† (4.7.24). He came to realize his prior choice to place more importance on false flattery than strong family ties was a sad mistake. In an attempt to right his past wrongs, Lear changed his philosophy to one that cared more about maintaining strong relationships than an impressive reputation. This new philosophy was one that cared more about Cordelia than Goneril, Regan, and their ensemble, because Cordelia was a genuine and honest girl. The new philosophy explains why King Lear spent so much time at the end of his life apologizing to Cordelia and trying to spend time with her. Lear knew that Cordelia was the most virtuous woman in his life, so he sought to deepen his relationship with her. This new philosophy made Lear a loyal, honest, and humbled man- very different than the Lear in the beginning of the play. Lear’s new philosophy benefitted him by making him a more moral person, and it benefittied those around him because everyone got to interact with a much more pleasant Lear. Shakespeare intentionally wrote King Lear’s change from the old philosophy to the new philosophy to teach the reader a lesson about human nature. Lear was extremely proud at the beginning of the play, and the burning fire of his hubris was fueled by the gasoline of his wealth, power, and status in the kingdom. Not until Lear was robbed of all of his physical possessions and meaningless status did he start to care about more important things. Lear hit rock bottom as he wandered through the woods without love, land, money, power, or trust. Only when his material belongings failed him did Lear think to look for solace in wholesome ideals such as love, family closeness, and honesty. These things made up the new philosophy that Shakespeare revealed in King Lear by the end of the play. The adoption of this new worldview somewhat redeemed the King’s unforgivable actions taken at the beginning of the play, and made him a more lovable and virtuous man. Shakespeare obviously favored the new Lear over the old, selfish Lear; this is a comment on human nature in general. Proud and superficial people have to experience hard times in order to experience the cathartic cleansing that allows them to refocus their priorities in life. Lear went through just such an experience, and he became a better man because of it. King Lear is a character that many readers of Shakespeare can relate too. Lear had his priorities in life very confused. At first, he valued things that weren’t important, such as land, money, and power. When Lear was robbed of these things, he realized just how unreliable it is to place so much importance on physical items that can easily be taken away. What really matters in life are relationships, honesty, love, and morals. Lear learned this after he lost everything. He realized that he could be happy even without anything physical to comfort him, because many times the most important things in life can’t be seen. This new philosophy of Lear’s carried his through the hard times he experienced in the play and allowed him to die happier than he would’ve had he still followed the old philosophy. Lear’s shift in perspectives is an example that Shakespeare encourages everyone to follow in order to live the most genuine and satisfying life possible.

Importance of the Handicraft Industry

Importance of the Handicraft Industry Introduction Handicrafts are unique expressions and represent a culture, tradition and heritage of a country. The Handicraft Industry is one of the important productive sector. Various attempts have been made to define this broad and diversified industry. The following definition strives to cover diversity and complexity of Handicraft Industry. Defining Handicrafts: Definition According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization/Information Technology Community (UNESCO/ITC) International Symposium on Crafts and the International Market: Trade and Customs Codification, Manila, Philippines, October 1997:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Products which are produced either completely by hand or with the help of tools. Mechanical tools may be used as long as the direct manual contribution of the artisan remains the most substantial component of the finished product. Handicrafts are made from raw materials and can be produced in unlimited numbers. Such products can be utilitarian, aesthetic, artistic, creative, culturally attached, decorative, functional, traditional, religiously and socially symbolic and significant. Definition according to Govt. of India: Product which is made by hand; should have some artistic value; they may or may not have functional utility. The Importance of Handicrafts The Cultural Importance: Handicrafts play very important role in representing the culture and traditions of any country or region. Handicrafts are a substantial medium to preserve of rich traditional art, heritage and culture, traditional skills and talents which are associated with peoples lifestyle and history. The Economic Importance: Handicrafts are hugely important in terms of economic development. They provide ample opportunities for employment even with low capital investments and become a prominent medium for foreign earnings India is a country of rich culture, history and traditions. India is one of the major producer and supplier of Handicrafts products in the world. India has been major producer and supplier of handicrafts products since very long time. Before the industrial development, this art and industry was a potential economic advantage for the country. During recent years, the importance of handicrafts has been surged due to their cultural and financial values. The small scale industries including handicrafts can play a major role in the development of the economy of both developed and the developing countries equally. The 90-95% of the total industrial products of the world are produced in small workshops run by less than 100 people. For instance, Japan, which is at the peak of the economic development, has considered 84% of the its industries as small and medium scale industries. In countries such as India and China, handicrafts are as high as the mechanized products in quality and volume, and are a major source of their foreign earnings. These countries are focusing on the development of handicraft industry, in order to strengthen the economy. The Indian handicrafts industry is highly labor intensive, cottage based and decentralized industry. The industry is spread all over the country mainly in rural and urban areas. Most of the manufacturing units are located in rural and small towns, and there is huge market potential in all Indian cities and abroad. Handicraft industry is a major source of income for rural communities employing over six million artisans including a large number of women and people belonging to the weaker sections of the society. The Handicraft sector is highly creative sector and produces large variety of crafts products. This industry is localized segment of the domestic and international market. In India the production of craft products are done on both large and small scale. Because of low capital investment people can start their business on small scale. Through this flexibility the demand and supply can be managed. Though Indian Handicraft industry is considered a cottage industry, but it has evolved as one of the major revenue generator over the years. There has been consistent growth of 15% over few years and the industry has evolved as one of the major contributor for export and foreign revenue generation. There is huge demand for the Indian Handicraft products in both national and international market. To match the demand and supply with quality, there is need to have greater technological support and innovativeness with the uniqueness in industry. Key Facts Of Indian Handicrafts Industry Indias rich cultural diversity and heritage provides a unique and huge resource for developing craft products. The Indian Handicraft Industry is showing continuous growth rate of 20% every year. Handicrafts industry is one of the important segment of decentralized sector in India. Major parts of industry operates in rural and semi urban areas throughout the country and has potential Indian and International market with around 67000 exporters to tap the market. According to the national census of handicrafts, undertaken by the National Council for Applied Economic Research the value of handicrafts produced last year were of Rs.26,213 Crore. This Industry provides huge employment opportunities to artisans that include women and people belonging to backward and weaker society. This is one of the major source of income there. The Indian Handicraft Industry is a $100 billion industry worldwide. Indias contribution in world market is 1.2% The total exports of crafts items: Rs. 13412.92 Crore. Industrys share in Indias exports:- 1.51 % In spite of having diversified products, some part of Indian market are still untapped and market is price sensitive. Products are high priced in big and metro cities, which are beyond, reach of people belonging middle and lower middle class. Craft producers have to compete on price, quality and delivery for different segments. There is poor promotion for craft products in national market. There is lack of awareness about new traditions and among craftsmen and there is need of technological support and training. Classification Handicrafts industry comprises diversified products portfolio and there is large variety available in market. Handicrafts products can be distinguished into following: Metal ware, Wood ware, Hand printed textiles, Embroidered and crocheted goods, Shawls, Carpets, Bamboo products Zari goods, Imitation jewellery Paintings, Earthenware, Jute products, Marble Sculpture, Bronze Sculpture Leather Products and other miscellaneous handicrafts. Handicraft industry in India is spread throughout the country with greater concentration in rural and suburban areas of country. Metal ware and Bronze sculpture: Major Manufacturing units are located in Moradabad, Sambhal, Aligarh, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Delhi, Thanjavur, Jagadhari etc. Wooden artware and sculpture: Major Manufacturing units are located in Sharanpur, Nagina, Hoshiarpur, Srinagar, Amritsar, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bangalore, Mysore, Behrampur etc. Embroidered item: Manufacturing Units are located in Kutch, Jaisalmer, Baroda, Lucknow, Jodhpur, Agra, Amritsar, Kullu and Srinagar. Marble and soft stones crafts:Agra, Madras, Bastar and Jodhpur are famous for these craft products. Paper Crafts: These manufacturing units are located in places of Kashmir and Jaipur. Terracotta: Terracotta units are located in state of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bastar. Hand printed textiles and scarves:Amroha, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Farrukhabad, Bagru and Sanganer consist of manufacturing units. Zari Products: Zari and zari products are manufactured at units located at Surat, Agra, Varanasi and Amritsar. Imitation Jewelry: Parts of Delhi, Moradabad, Sambhal, Jaipur and Kohima consist of manufacturing units for these jewelry products. Political View Industrial Policy: There are no restrictions regarding location for establishing manufacturing units. All producers of handicrafts are exempt from obtaining Industrial License to manufacture. The delicenced undertakings, however, are required to file an Industrial Entrepreneur Memoranda (IEM) in Part A with the Secretariat of Industrial Assistance (SIA), and obtain an acknowledgment. No further approval is required. Trade Policy: Handicraft products fall under the ITC (HS) code 97. Paintings, drawings and paintings, domestic articles of wood etc. which come under 9701 Original engravings falling under 9702 Original sculptures categorized under 9703 Products under the code 9704 are freely importable. Imports of items in 9705 are restricted. Characteristics of Indian Handicrafts for exports; as defined by Govt. of India are: They are quota free and neutral to fiber content or composition, barring 100% silk. They include Garments, Made-up and clothing accessories. Are produced in cottage industries. Should not have zippers. Must be ornamented using any one or more of the following Indian folk styles. Hand painting, Hand printing, Batik, Tie and Dye, Kalamkari. Hand embroidery, Crocheting. Appliquà © work of sequins, wooden or glass beads, shells, mirror, ornamental motifs of textiles materials. Extra wrap of welt ornamentation of silk, art silk or zari threads. Should conform to shape and styles of each item as defined in the agreed list of different countries. Should satisfy the dimensional aspects. Tariff-non-tariff Policy: Except for 9704, all the items under 97 attract a total import duty of 35.2 per cent. This includes a basic duty of 35 per cent and a special additional duty of four per cent. Items under 9704 do not attract any import duty. In India, handicrafts are distributed through following major Distribution Channels: Retailers/Direct Sales: This is the most common distribution channel for selling handicrafts in India. In India there are large number of retailers who provides wide range of handicrafts products. Wholesalers/Distributors: Apart from retail and direct sales channels, wholesalers and distributors also provide large range of handicraft products. Wholesalers can keep product stock in bulk and can sell direct to final consumer or retailer. E-Commerce: Internet has emerged as a one of the promising distribution channel for selling the handicrafts products. It is estimated that internet will be one of the major channel for the distribution of handicrafts products through E-Commerce. Export And Foreign Earnings Handicraft Industry has evolved as one of the major contributors for Export and foreign earnings: Exports of handicrafts including hand knitted carpets during 2005-06 were Rs.13412.92 Crore. Export items- Art Metal wares, Wood wares, Hand printed textiles, Embroidered and Crocheted goods, Shawls as art wares, Zari goods, Imitation jewelry, Carpets, Leather products, Jute products, Paintings, Bamboo products, Earthen ware, Marble Sculpture, Bronze Sculpture etc. Indias major export markets are USA, Germany, UK, France and Japan, Saudi Arabia, Canada, and Italy etc. Indian Handicraft Industry contributes very important role in Indian economy. For the proper functioning and operation of industry it is very essential to have some policies and regulation in place. In India, the Ministry Of Textile is responsible for the formulation of policy, planning, development, export promotion and regulation of the Handicraft Industry. There are several other bodies and organizations which help to formulate and execute these policies. All policies should be implemented for the greater development of the whole industry so that it can help to strengthen the economy. Industrial Policy: There are no restrictions regarding location for establishing manufacturing units. All producers of handicrafts are exempt from obtaining Industrial License to manufacture. The delicenced undertakings, however, are required to file an Industrial Entrepreneur Memoranda (IEM) in Part A with the Secretariat of Industrial Assistance (SIA), and obtain an acknowledgment. No further approval is required. Trade Policy: Handicraft products fall under the ITC (HS) code 97. Paintings, drawings and paintings, domestic articles of wood etc. which come under 9701 Original engravings falling under 9702 Original sculptures categorized under 9703 Products under the code 9704 are freely importable. Imports of items in 9705 are restricted. Characteristics of Indian Handicrafts for exports; as defined by Govt. of India are: They are quota free and neutral to fiber content or composition, barring 100% silk. They include Garments, Made-up and clothing accessories. Are produced in cottage industries. Should not have zippers. Must be ornamented using any one or more of the following Indian folk styles. Hand painting, Hand printing, Batik, Tie and Dye, Kalamkari. Hand embroidery, Crocheting. Appliquà © work of sequins, wooden or glass beads, shells, mirror, ornamental motifs of textiles materials. Extra wrap of welt ornamentation of silk, art silk or zari threads. Should conform to shape and styles of each item as defined in the agreed list of different countries. Should satisfy the dimensional aspects. Tariff-non-tariff Policy: Except for 9704, all the items under 97 attract a total import duty of 35.2 per cent. This includes a basic duty of 35 per cent and a special additional duty of four per cent. Items under 9704 do not attract any import duty. In India, handicrafts are distributed through following major Distribution Channels: Retailers/Direct Sales: This is the most common distribution channel for selling handicrafts in India. In India there are large number of retailers who provides wide range of handicrafts products. Wholesalers/Distributors: Apart from retail and direct sales channels, wholesalers and distributors also provide large range of handicraft products. Wholesalers can keep product stock in bulk and can sell direct to final consumer or retailer. E-Commerce: Internet has emerged as a one of the promising distribution channel for selling the handicrafts products. It is estimated that internet will be one of the major channel for the distribution of handicrafts products through E-Commerce. Easily availability on global basis and cost effective way has made Internet a good marketplace to buy, sell, and promote the products. Strengths: Large, diversified and potential market. There is large product variety and range is available because of diversified culture. It has strong, diversified and supportive retail infrastructure. Diversified product range that service different market. Cheap labor rates that result to competitive price. Need low capital investment. There is flexible production flexibility. Low barriers of new entry. Advantages and Critical Success Factors: Easy creation and development of production centers. There is no need for macro-investment. Industry provides potential sources of employment. Products are high value added, and handicrafts have various applications. It is the potential source of foreign revenue because of higher export. Weaknesses: Lack of infrastructure and communication facilities. Unawareness about international requirements and market. Lack of co-ordination between government bodies and private players. Inadequate information of new technology. Inadequate information of current market trends. Less interest of young people in craft industry. Lack of skilled labor. Still confined to rural areas and small cities and untapped market. Lack of promotion of products. Opportunities: Rising demand for handicraft products in developed countries such as USA, Canada, Britain, France, Germany, Italy etc. Developing fashion industry requires handicrafts products. Development of sectors like Retail, Real Estate that offers great requirements of handicrafts products. Development of domestic and international tourism sector. e-Commerce and Internet are emerged as promissory distribution channels to market and sell the craft products. Threats: Competition in domestic market. Balance between high demand and supply. Quality products produced by competing countries like China, South Africa. Better Trade terms offered by competing countries. Increased and better technological support and RandD facility in competing countries. Inspite of having diversified products, some part of Indian market is still untapped and market is price sensitive. Products are high priced in big and metro cities, which are beyond the reach of people belonging middle and lower middle class. Craft producers have to compete on price, quality and delivery for different segments. There is poor promotion for craft products in national market. There is lack of awareness about new traditions and among craftsmen It is difficult to balance the cultural and commercial value of handicraft products. Inadequate supply chain management and distribution reduces the sectors commercial viability and economic sustainability. Lack of Technological support and training. Lack of Research and development for key handicraft sectors like, ceramics, paper making etc. There is shortage of skilled craftsmen and labor to match the competition. Lack of ability to produce in large scale and create economies of scale. Inadequate material testing and performance measurement. Inappropriate energy supplies to rural and sub-urban areas. Untapped and inaccessible market due to poor transportation infrastructure. There are inadequate training centers to develop skilled craftsmen The primary objective is to create an environment that helps the industry to compete on the global basis. To build the environment that will focus on: Wealth Creation, Infrastructure Development, Training, Technological Development, and Poverty Alleviation etc. to enhance the sector performance. Awareness should be increased among craftsmen and customers through Trade Events, Seminars, Craft Forums and advertisements. More training centers should be opened to provide proper training to craft persons. There should be more trade shows to facilitate craft producers to access the market. Transportation infrastructure should be improved to access the untapped market that would be beneficial to reduce the transportation cost. Promotion of cultural tradition and heritage. Promotion of Indian Tourism to attract the foreign customers. Developing technologies to recycle natural resources to produce new products and ensure waste minimization, product durability and reliability. Promoting Partnership and collaboration with private sector. There should be market platform for craft producers belonging to rural areas to market their products. Development of electronic platform by using internet to provide information, database, and marketing and distribution solution. Increased Private participation in industry. There should be optimized distribution network and supply chain management. Through improving labor productivity in a high labor intensive and price competitive market. There should be proper balance between cultural and commercial value of craft products to sustain business opportunities. Through using low cost production methods the sustainability of small business can be improved. By implementing following model, the performance of Handicraft Industry can be improved and the greater Value addition can be done: Identify the Potential Market Making Effective Business Plan and Refinement in existing business Test Marketing to test the initial potential of new products in market Effective Operational and Technological Upgradation Hiring skilled manpower, provide training and awareness about latest technology and market trends and effective management. Hiring skilled manpower, provide training and awareness about latest technology and market trends. Cost Effective Production, Maintain Quality Standards, and Packaging. Set the Costing and Pricing with Quality taken to be consideration Cost Effective Distribution Development using both Physical and Electronic Distribution Channels (Internet, e-Commerce) Both National and International Market Development for better Export and Foreign Revenue. All India Handicrafts Board: The All India Handicrafts Board was established in 1952 to suggest various solutions for improvement and development in Handicraft Industry. Formulation of Plans, Assistance to State Govt. for planning and execution of schemes, and providing assistance for Marketing, Financial, and Organizational aspects of Handicrafts Industry. State and Union Territories: Every State and Union territories has different department for the development of Handicrafts Industry. Marketing, Promotion, Financial Aid to Small Scale Industries, and other programs are the functions of State level corporations. Central Corporations: The Handicrafts and Hand looms Export Corporation of India: It was established in 1962. Exports Promotion, Development of potential market execution of Whole Sale and retail Orders are major functions of organization. The Central Cottage Industries Corporation Pvt. Ltd.: It is a registered society that runs Central Cottage Industries Emporium in New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai to sell the Handicrafts products. The All India Hand loom Fabrics Marketing Cooperative Society Ltd.: This Cooperative Society is supported and promoted by All India Hand loom Board. It has various hand loom emporiums in all metro cities, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad etc. and few branches in New York, Singapore etc. All India Organizations: All India Textile Handprinting Industries Federation: 1106 Prasad Chambers, Swadeshi Mill Estate, Mumbai, India. All India Federation of Zari Industry: Safe Deposit Chambers, Surat, Gujarat, India. All India Carpets Manufacturers Association: Post Box No. 63, Bhadohi, District Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Export Promotion Organizations and Councils: The All India Handicrafts Board (West Block VII, R.K. Puram, New Delhi- 110022): This organization is responsible for Export Promotion, Market Development, and Arranging Exhibitions etc. The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (D-15, Commerce Centre, 4th Floor, Tardeo Road, Bombay- 400001): This Organization is responsible for the promotion of Jewellery, Diamond, Stones, Pearls craft of the country. The Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation of India (Jawahar Vyapar Bhavan, Anex-I, Tolstoy Marg, New Delhi 110001: It is Govt. undertaking and responsible for exports efforts of private sector promote Indian Participation in International Exhibitions. The Handloom Export Promotion Council (123, Mount Road, Chennai- 600006): It works for the export promotion of Indian Handlooms in the country. The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade: It provides Training Courses and publishes various survey reports. The Trade Development Authority of India: (Bank of Baroda Building, 16 Parliament Street, New Delhi- 110001). The Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (Express Towers, 10th Floor, Nariman Point, Bombay-400001): It provides exports credit intelligence, covers against various risks. The Export Inspection Council (14/1-b Erza Street, World Trade Centre, Calcutta- 700001): It is responsible for Quality Control Issues, and Pre-shipment Act. The Federation of Indian Export Organization (Allahabad Bank Building, 17 Parliament Street, New Delhi-110001) The Trade Authority of India (Pragati Maidan, New Delhi-110001): It was started in 1977 and works for exports and trade promotion and development. The Indian Handicraft Industry stands a unique place among all other industries. It represents the rich culture, tradition and heritage of India. Indias rich cultural diversity and heritage provides a unique and huge resource for developing craft products. The Indian Handicraft Industry is showing continuous growth rate of 20% every year and it is one of the most important segment of decentralized sector in India. Most of the part of industry operates in rural and semi urban areas throughout the country and have large and potential in Indian International market. Indian Handicraft Industry provides wide range of products because of countrys diversified culture, traditions and heritage. There is huge demand of Indian Handicraft products in international market. Industry provides ample opportunities for employment to people belonging to backward and weaker classes of society. However, Indian Handicraft Industry has the status of cottage industry in India, but it has shown promising growth and evolved as one of the major revenue generator over the years. It has shown continuous growth at the rate of 15-20% over the years and contributes major role for export and foreign earnings. Low capital investment, Cheap and skilled labor, Diversified product portfolio, Flexible Production are few important features of Indian Handicraft Industry. However, Lack of Infrastructure Technological support, Lack of awareness of international and new trends and Poor Promotional campaigns are a few drawbacks of industry which needs to be overcome. It is estimated that Handicraft Industry in India is all set to grow with rapid rate in future and contribute its share towards economic development handsomely. The model so called Model 5 forces developed by Michael E. Porter is the one used mostly among many authors who try to recognize industry in which there is manufactures. These Five Forces Analysis or Porters model of competitors forces is often used with PEST analysis to determine a position and possibilities on a market: strength of competition among manufactures that operates within fashion industry sophisticated technology, highly qualified personnel, greater capital for buying modern sewing machines (CAD/CAM) and positive influence of market growth, existence of other producers of garments who are ready to enter a market, investment in technology and development, emotional connection with fashion industry and an easy strategic movement ahead, customers start to change fashion products sophisticated technology, necessary training of personnel and on the other side global accessibility of some products by internet, consumers negotiation ability -a large demand and sophisticated technology and suppliers negotiation ability sufficient great and growing market and a global access by internet. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The problem that exists in our garment industry is that we analyze and follow trends that have already taken place on the fashion scene so while a collection is being accepted and the preparation for production is getting completed a new fashion demand is here, and the old one hasnt got accustomed yet. Fashion companies that do not invest in the development of products and production technology get into danger and cant keep place with fashion trend although they try hard. Markets researches, consumers wishes, requests, and criterium mean inevitable and dominant task for a producer of garments, because by obtaining all these information a production can be directed, business planned with advanced defined aims and strategies. Marketing enables greater flexibility and better organisation for more successful reaction to market demands. Market analyses are perhaps difficult procedures for fashion industry, because they need time to see strong sides and opportunities although they are too eager to identify weaknesses and threats. It is important to be aware that once when weaknesses are identified, some steps to change them can be taken by training, so there is possibility to make it a strong side. Thats why SSC and SWOT are useful techniques used to find out strong and weak points in a fashion industry. The way Levi Strauss Company succeeded by their own efforts to impose a new product LEVIS ENGINEERED JEANS (redesigned denim trousers that follow contour of a body ergonomically), it is an example how to use BCG matrix and GAP analysis that show us how market methods and techniques can be also used in our garment industry in order to meet demands of flexible production. Retailers in India have already started the concept of co-branded credit cards. A current example would be the aggressive salesperson in any Spencers store showcasing the HSBC-Spencers offering. Another vivid example would be the Future Group credit card which had TV ads across channels for quite some time. The response though had been lukewarm. With organized retail sales looking downward over the last year, especially in Q3 and Q4 of 2008-09, these offering had disappeared from the table. But, Q1 Q2 of 2009-10 have been particularly good, with around 15% growth in the sector on the back of a successful festive season. The new buzz word that is coming up in Retail circles is the Gift card, which is basically gift vouchers/certificates in the form of smart cards. They will be profitable for retailers as it will breed loyalty through repeat purchases. There will also be a significant portion of card value (10% in America: Economist) which are never redeemed. Retailers in India are still nascent when it comes to maintaining a comprehensive customer database, and this will be a small, yet significant step towards the same. The future for gift cards will yield many innovatively packaged offerings similar to the trends in America. A few examples from the Economist: Target: Gift cards that double as wind-up toys Gift cards through email Best Buy: multiple people can contribute small amounts for

Watch Industry And Strategy Of Titan Watches

Watch Industry And Strategy Of Titan Watches Today, a wristwatch is considered as much of a status symbol as a device to tell time. The watches and jewellery has not been immune to the economic climate and the whole industry suffered in late 2008 and in 2009 as consumer confidence fell and people became more cautious about their spending. The overall jewellery and watches market grew by 10% since 2005 to reach  £4.8 billion in 2010 and Mintel forecasts 11% growth for the jewellery and watches market over next five years. 2011 is also going to be the year to invest in mens jewellery. Stephen Webster presented a strong case for mens jewellery at IJL in September 2010, and assuming male customer only want watches and the odd signet or chain could lead to missing out on a potential wealth of customer. Its not that male customers dont want it: they just dont know they want it. Men arent like women and theyre not used to thinking about what to wear, explain Webster. But once a man is bejewelled, theres no looking back. They also dont wait for special occasions like woman do, and they can go from zero to jewellery enthusiast in no time. Market research company Mintels September 2010 report Watches and Jewellery Retailing UK found that 20% of male respondent said they like receiving jewellery as a gift, and 12% said that they had purchased all of their own jewellery. So the market is clearly there to be exploited. http://www.retail-jeweller.com/trends/in-with-the-new-2011-trends/5020089.article Rocketing gold prices and recession have led many consumers to buy silver jewellery instead of gold, with almost one in five people wearing more silver jewellery than gold, rising to nearly three in ten women; particularly young people aged 15 24. The affordability and disposability of many costume jewellery items means that customers are more willing to experiment and try new looks without denting their bank balances Young men aged under- 35 are more open to paying higher amounts for a watch as they typically do not wear jewellery to express their individuality or consumer spending power. Some 86% of consumers wear a watch, but nearly 40% only a new one when their old one is broken. Converging the watchs main function with health benefits would be one way of helping create new reasons for purchase. http://oxygen.mintel.com/sinatra/oxygen/display/id=479809 Executive Summary: https://www.keynote.co.uk/market-intelligence/view/product/10331/chapter/0 Many Brands and companies are constantly reinvigorating their businesses and positioning them for growth. There is a constant need to innovate, reinvigorate, update, recalibrate, or just simply fend off the competition in an effort to better explain ,why buy me. In the market for the brand and product offerings is created by positioning. It reaches a certain type of consumers and delivers benefits that meet the needs of several key target groups and users. Actual Approach of a company or brands positioning in the marketplace depends on how it communicates the benefits and product attributes to consumers and users. As a result positioning of a company and/or product seeks to further distance itself from competitors based on a host of items, but most notably on five key issues: Price, Quality, Product Attributes, Distribution, and Usage Occasions. In recent times, consumerism has undergone a sea change. Consumers today are well informed about the products, as compared to earlier times. Hence, the market has become customer centric. Recognizing the importance of the customer is business structure; companies have started effecting brand repositioning exercise on regular basis. In the recent times, a major brand repositioning exercise has been planned by Titian Industries Ltd in order to provide more to its customers. The company has its new position. This study will help to understand the revived positioning strategies of TITAN watches. An analysis of repositioning strategies of Titan also forms of the study. Firstly it is important to understand the overall wrist watch industry in UK. Secondly to study the brand positioning and re-positioning strategy of Titan wrist watches and to find out whether the loyal consumers of TITAN watches aware of the new positioning strategies of the company and how they perceive them. To study primary and secondary data have been used. Analysis UK wrist watch industry and brand repositioning strategies of TITAN Company has been analysed and completed on the basis of secondary data. Internet, journals, books and magazines have been used for this purpose. Project comprises conducting a questionnaire survey. (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "https://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })() Introduction: 1.1 Theory and concepts: A business has two and only two basic functions: marketing and innovation Peter Drucker To maintain business relevance and market position, it is important to continuously innovate and invent brand image in the market to pace with change and intense competitive pressure in the marketplace. In this context, brand repositioning and other revitalization strategies have become a business imperative for battling brand erosion. The appeal of brand repositioning is further heightened by the rising costs and high risk associated with launching a new brand. Increase in the cost and high risk related with launching a new brand that is a part of brand reposition.Brand reposition has received very importance in the marketing literature and mostly been treated as a variation of brand positioning. Reposition can be required as the market changes and new opportunities occur. In order to reach the customer which was never targeted at first can also be targeted with brand reposition. In order to change its image in the market it is important to focus towards brand repositioning, although it is one of the toughest and hardest actions in marketing to reposition a familiar brand. According to Solomon, position strategy is an essential part in the marketing efforts because companies have to use the elements in the marketing mix to influence the customers understanding the position. There has to be several choices to be, so to as to be in more attractive and relevant position. It is important for the person who is reposition for the reposition to know and understand why reposition is necessary and its need, and if the offer is the one that will change or just the brand name. While repositioning it is important to undertake and understand all the risk factors that is likely to affect it in the market. A company risks its credibility and reliability more while repositioning its brand in the market and the need for a thorough strategy is very important to avoid any occurrence. Some analyst argues that to successfully reposition a established brand name is almost impossible because repositioning of a brand can make the most loyal customer to switch brand. If the brand is eroded then brand reposition becomes important. Numerous attempts to reposition brand in the market may fail which is testified by many company for example while soft drink has successfully been able to connect with the youth though they exist for 40 years in the market but at the same Levis, jeans has been losing its market share to newcomers such as The Gap despite numerous campaigns designed to reposition the brand trend. 1.2 Literature Review: The reposition strategy is defined into three stages that is: Introductory Elaboration Fortification This involves the introduction of a new or a repositioned brand, seeking underline the brands value over others, and to broaden the brand position. It is truly hard to change the customers perceived attitude towards a brand, and therefore the risk is great that the attempt to repositioning might fail. After rolling out the strategy, it is time to modify the proposition through update of the personality and through repositioning. There pros and cons with both of this segments and it is great significance that they are truly calculate when deciding the next step in the process. To understand it more deeply http://htmlimg4.scribdassets.com/55f3acalz4nfgla/images/10-81b5e3fa9c/000.jpg Figure 1: Stages in brand strategy development. When a company modifies or change something that is already there in the market established in the mind of the customer that is called as repositioning. Different profession and individuals have different meaning and understanding towards Repositioning. There are few different definitions and greater understanding about this concept: Repositioning is a change, principally about triggering the vision, mission and value in a new direction that is more suited f or the brand in the future- Brand manager consultant. Principally, reposition concerns changing the consumers perception of the brand PR consultant. Repositioning is built upon the change of unique and differentiated associations with the brand in some kind of direction; it is about having a balance between the category party and differentiation when using reposition strategies (Leading Brand strategies) From these definitions, it is obvious that reposition is about moving something to more attractive and relevant position. Reposition direction is often decided as to what a company wants to achieve. There is also a visible relation between price and quantity aspects. When a company perceives the market as a demand curve, the purpose is to down stretch or upward curve. When moving up and there is a need for reaching the premium segment and expand up wards. Figure: The principle of reposition. When striving towards a new position in the market, it is important to understand those consumers are limited. Peoples minds select what to remember and it is important to convince the consumers with greater arguments. The market always strive for change which is rapid and therefore repositioning can be necessary to meet these demands, newer and stronger arguments have to be established to convinced them to stay as loyal customers. As repositioning is a very complicated matter and therefore there are no detailed theories or models. Aim for repositioning is different for different person, and the only connection between all the different theories is that repositioning is moving something from somewhere towards a greater position at the market. Corstjens and Doyle (1989) identified three types of repositioning strategies: Zero repositioning, which is not a repositioning at all since the firm maintains its initial strategy in the face of a changing environment. Gradual repositioning, where the firm performs incremental, continuous adjustments to its positioning strategy to reflect the evolution of its environment; and Radical repositioning that corresponds to a discontinuous shift towards a new target market and /or a new competitive advantage. After learning the repositioning of several brands from the UK market, the following 8 types of repositioning have been identified. These are: Increasing relevance to the consumer Increasing occasions for use Making the brand serious Falling sales Bringing in new customers Making the rand contemporary Differentiate from other brands Changed market conditions A four phased brand repositioning approach can be followed to achieve the intended benfits- Phase I. Determining the current status of the brand Phase II. What does the brand stand for today? Phase III. Developing the brand positioning platforms Phase IV. Refining the brand Positioning and Management Presentation The advantages that can be derived from brand repositioning exercises can be summarized as: Value over others Updated personality Relevant position The risks associated with such strategies are: Loss of focus Neglecting original customers Losing credibility for the brand Confusing the brand Therefore, brand repositioning is more difficult than initially positioning a brand because one must first help the customer UNLEARN the current brand positioning This can be done by: Carefully crafted communication New products, packaging Associations with other brands ( co- branding, co- marketing, ingredient branding, strategic alliances, etc) that reinforce the new brand positioning. This exercise is so critical to an organizations success that the organizations and its marketing/brand management leader should develop it, preferably with the help and facilitation of an outside brand positioning expert. Research Methodology: 2.1 Objectives To study the current scenario of UK wrist watch industry. To review the brand positioning strategies of different sub-brands of watches. To analyze the brand repositioning strategies of watches. To study consumer awareness and perception about the brand repositioning strategies of watches. This study will help to understand the gap in its communication strategy regarding brand repositioning exercises and the further measures to be taken for effective marketing communications. 2.2 Limitations: The study is confined to London area only There is possibility of sampling errors in the study The responses of the consumers may not be genuine Questionnaire may not be comprehensive 2.3 Sources of Data Collection: The relevant data was collected from both primary sources and secondary sources. The starting point of my information gathering has been the secondary sources such as internet, books, and journals and so on. Firstly, brand positioning and repositioning strategies of Titan, secondary sources such as internet, insurance magazines, and journals and so on. Then I conducted a consumer awareness survey on brand repositioning strategies undertaken by Titan watches in recent times. 2.4 Sampling: To conduct sampling of 50 loyal consumers of Titan and in the age group of 20 30 years for this study. Since Titan has taken up brand repositioning strategies since January 2011, consumers who have seen the previous and new campaigns have been targeted. 2.5 Primary data: Data was collected through an interview schedule, consisting of both open ended and closed ended questions. It consisted of the parameters like reasons consumers brand preference, recollection of earlier tagline and advertisement, brand ambassador of Titan awareness of new tagline and campaign featuring sportsmen and actors from International body and so on. The data was collected through e-mails, telephone contacts and one to one personal interviews. Industry Overview UK Watch industry: Market report examines the UK jewellery and watches market, total sales of jewellery and watches in the UK fluctuated between 2004 and 2008, and fell by 2.8% in the latter year to finish the review period at  £4.33 billion. The declining sales in 2008 can be largely attributed to the global economic downturn and UK recession, which have had a negative impact on nearly all industries. Initially, the luxury end of the market was relatively unaffected by the downturn, but by the end of 2008 and 2009, it had begun to take effect. The jewellery and Watches market has become increasingly competitive in recent years. Although the industry has always been fragmented with a wide range of suppliers and retailers, developments in online retailing have contributed to it becoming increasingly transparent for information on pricing and availability. This has been a positive trend, especially for many smaller brands that previously were not able to deal directly with consumers. Some larger retailers, as well as a few independents, have also developed transactional sites to deal with this demand. With around a third of the UK population owning a piece of precious jewellery and nearly in ten owning a watch, products have a high rate of consumer penetration. The downturn in the UK economy is unlikely to show reversal in 2009, and this will continue to affect all areas of consumer spending. It seems the concepts of a wrist watch have become that of a status symbol rather than a practical chronometer. According to a survey that suggest one in seven people in the UK has no need for watch, apart from as a fashion accessory. Gadgets such as iPods, laptops and mobile phone, represent threat to the watch industry, survey conducted by Mintel. Even in the age of iPhones, people spend huge amount of money on a quality time piece, with high-end brands such as Rolex and Tag Heuer adorning blinged up wrist of rappers, bankers and fashionistas alike. http://www.wharf.co.uk/2010/11/why-wrist-watches-are-dialling.html SWOT ANALYSIS OF THE UK WATCH INDUSTRY: Strengths: Watch industry is growing industry which faster rate As the population is rising, the watch market is also expanding Customers are not very price sensitive as far as quality watch is concerned Weakness: There is not much advertising done by watch industry No innovation in products There are few number of exclusive showrooms that reduces the consumers accessibility to the product There are few marketers, who are concentrated only upon a particular niche segment (Tag Heuer ) Opportunities: There is more need of fashionable luxury watch and fine luxury watch brands that can be targeted in UK, as customers are more like trendsetter and fashionable. UK especially London is a metropolitan city which makes it more attractive for the new company. Youth are more brand conscious than their predecessors. That leads to the expansion of the market for branded watches. Threats: There are many foreign players entering in the race Too many players will dilute the market and the profit margin. Mobile phones acting as substitutes of the watches. The Indian watch industry began in the year 1961 with the commissioning of the watch division of Titan. The first watch model manufactured by HMT was the Janata model in the year 1962. HMT was the leader in the watch market till the Tatas formed Titan watches in association with Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation in the year 1987. They took a major strategy decision, which later changed the face of the Indian watch market to manufacture only quartz watches. Liberalisation in 1992 and removal of quantitative restrictions due to WTO has opened the doors for many the Indian market viz. Tissot, Swatch, Omega, Rado, TAGHeuer. The import duties on watches are falling which makes the Indian market look attractive for the global majors like Casio, Swatch and Citizen. Company Profile: Overview Titan is the largest watch company in India and the sixth largest in the world. Titan manufactures over 7 million watches per annum and has a customer base over 65 million. An industry was established in 1984 as a joint venture between the Tata Group and the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation. The company brought the shift in the Indian watch market, offering quartz technology with International styling, manufactured in a state-of-the art factory at Hosur, Tamil Nadu. Leveraging its understanding of different segments in the watch market, the company launched a second independent watch brand Sonata, as a value brand to those seeking buy functionally styled watches at affordable prices. In addition it focused on the youth with its third brand fastrack. In two decades the company has built an impressive watch business to become Indias largest manufacturer and the worlds sixth manufacturer of watches. This has mainly been achieved by developing a formidable distribution network. The company has amongst the worlds largest retail chain of exclusive retail showrooms for watches called The world of Titan spread over 100 towns. It also has multi brand outlets named Time Zone, service centers and dealer outlets. Globally Titan has a presence in over 30 countries through its marketing subsidiaries. The company has watch assembly plants at Dehradun (UP) and Baddi ( Himachal Pradesh) and a plant manufacturing electronic circuit boards in Goa. The majority stake in the company is held by the promoters, with Tidco having 28 percent of the shares and Tata Group companies owning 25 percent of the shares. Public holding in the company is around 28 per cent. The rest of the stake is held by foreign institutions, non resident Indians, mutual funds and other institutions. It has also premium fashion watches by acquiring a license for global brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Hugo Boss, while. It has also in its portfolio its first Swiss Made watch brand Xylys. 1995, the company diversified into jewellery under the brand Tanishq to capitalize on fragmented market operating with no brands in urban cities. In 2005, the launched its second Jewellery brand, GoldPlus, for capitalizing on the opportunity in small towns and rural India. The company has now diversified into fashion Eyewear by launching Fastrack Eye-Gear sunglasses, as well as Prescription Eyewear. TITAN WATCHES: BRAND POSITIONING STRATEGIES Overall strategies: Since its introduction, Titan has been positioned as a premium brand, providing high quality products. Titan is struggling to have a strong brand image in UK market due to its numerous sub-brands that caters to different segments in India. It follows different positioning strategies; these strategies can also be analyzed as given below: Attribute Positioning: When the company launched its products, it was the first to bring quartz watches to Indian market. The company successfully leveraged this to penetrate the market. Raga, Classique and Regalia come under this strategy. Classique positioned as elegant corporate wear that leaves a quiet, but definite impression and fusion of function and sophistication. Regalia ranger represents the elegant-wear. Raga has been differentiate and positioned as exclusive watch. The Raga and Silver Raga collection is elegant, delicate and feminine with each piece truly unique. User Positioning: Titan caters to several user groups children (the Dash), sportspersons and adventurers. The fastrack range is seen as being contemporary, reliable and sturdy. The advertising, packaging and merchandising of this range is young, cool and vibrant. Benefit Positioning: Titan seeks to differentiate its offering on the basis of superior style and attractiveness which is offered by fastrack Digital range. Competitors Positioning: With the entry of several foreign watchmakers into the market, Titan had to encounter the threat. Most the entrants are catering to the upper end of the market Omega, Cartier etc. Quality or Price Positioning: In the overseas market, especially in Europe where it is competing with Swiss and Japanese watches, it is positioning itself as value-for-money (less than Swiss watches and higher than Japanese), attractively styled and of good quality. TITAN WATCHES: BRAND RE-POSITIONING STRATEGIES FOR GLOBALISATION Titan has managed to get fair market in Middle East and Africa but its failure in Europe was a downturn for the Company as the return was not as good as investment made for the expansion. Titan has decided to revamp its flagship watch brand in Europe mainly in UK. Titan wants to reposition it more youthful and relevant to the changing times. Titan has entered the International markets in 1989 through the export of watch movements. Titans first global footprint was placed in the UAE the largest market in the Middle East then it moved towards Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia and few markets in Africa. Though it faced strong competition, it reached the sales of 100,000 watches within a year of its launch. It started to move globally and moves towards Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and Nepal. After its extensive survey, it concluded that it needs good reason to stock the brand. Titan needs to re-position its brand image in the UK market. And so Titan decided to against soft option of driving its globalization through private label exports. It would launch its product under its own brand with market positioning Therefore Titan found a massive advertising campaign to create brand awareness. It also participated in the fair which showcases the worlds biggest watch brand in the world. http://www.moodiereport.com/images/luxury_watch_tables_jan10_04.jpg http://www.moodiereport.com/images/luxury_watch_tables_jan10_05.jpg CONCLUSION: The suggestions to improve consumer awareness about brand repositioning strategy of Titan are as follows: To increase its visibility, Titan Company can sponsor events similar to fashion shows which all latest designs launched are displayed. This is important as it has a great effect on different segments of the customers in different ways. It is important to have Tie up with radio channels and television to broadcast and telecast its advertisement about various sales promotion from time to time. RD needs more investment as customer expectations are changing rapidly. It should focus more on introducing more varieties and luxury items in the market at regular interval. Introduce exclusive collection for working women which is more contemporary and complements any fashion styles. Tie up with international watch brands to make the product stronger in the market. To use internet to spread awareness among consumer about the brand. (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "https://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })()

Teaching Philosophy Essay -- Teachers Education School Essays

Teaching Philosophy As a future art educator, I have been encouraging myself in the past four years to explore and absorb as much about art and education as I possibly can. As my college years are drawing closer towards a conclusion, a new chapter of my life is waiting to be discovered. This is the time to gather what I have learned and synthesize my own set of philosophies on teaching. Under my teaching scope, I would want students to learn about meanings and issues in life through art in addition to the technical skills of art making. I would guide and expect my students to express their views and feelings through this creative process. Furthermore, I anticipate students will recognize that art functions in many facets, and that having the ability to criticize and be aware of the arts around them will enable them to appreciate art as an active and engaged participant in the learning process. Last but not least, I would like to share my enthusiasm for art and inspire my students to view art with a whol e new perspective. In order to achieve my goals, specific methods will be...

pearl harbor :: essays research papers

Naval base and headquarters of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, Honolulu county, southern Oahu Island, Hawaii, U.S. In U.S. history the name recalls the Japanese surprise air attack on Dec. 7, 1941, that temporarily crippled the U.S. Fleet and resulted in the United States' entry into World War 2. Pearl Harbor centres on a cloverleaf-shaped, artificially improved harbour on the southern coast of Oahu, 6 miles (10 km) west of Honolulu. The harbour is virtually surrounded (west to east) by the cities of Ewa, Waipahu, Pearl City, Aiea, and Honolulu. It has 10 square miles (26 square km) of navigable water and hundreds of anchorages and covers a land area of more than 10,000 acres (4,000 hectares). Its four lochs are formed by the Waipio and Pearl City peninsulas and Ford Island. Pearl Harbor Entrance (channel) connects its virtually landlocked bay with the Pacific Ocean. Pearl Harbor was called Wai Momi (â€Å"pearl waters†) by the Hawaiians because of the pearl oysters that once grew there. In 1840 Lieutenant Charles Wilkes of the U.S. Navy made the first geodetic survey and urged the dredging of the coral-bar entrance to the harbour. About 30 years later, Colonel John McAllister Schofield further recommended that the United States secure harbour rights.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A subsequent treaty (1887) granted the United States the exclusive use of the harbour as a coaling and repair station, but work was not begun until after 1898, when the Spanish-American War indicated its strategic value as a Pacific base. A naval station was established after 1908, and a drydock was completed in 1919. During the Pearl Harbor Attack in 1941 the USS Arizona sank with a loss of more than 1,100 men; a white concrete and steel structure now spans the hull of the sunken ship, which was dedicated as a national memorial on May 30, 1962.

Infant and Child Development Essay

This assignment will critically review Howlett, Kirk and Pine’s (2011) study, which aims to investigate whether attendance of gesturing classes affects parental stress. Howlett et al. , (2011) attempt to examine claims, advertised by commercial products, that believe attending gesturing classes can improve child-parent communications, thus reducing parental stress. Participants gave demographic information and completed a Parenting Stress Index (PSI) questionnaire. ANCOVA was used to look at whether attending gesturing classes affected parental stress, mothers attending a gesture group and mothers attending a non gesture group were compared; with ‘sibling status’ and ‘birth order’ controlled. Researchers found that mothers who attended infant gesture classes had higher stress scores than mothers who had attended non-gesturing classes. From these findings the following claims are made: that mothers in the gesture group had higher pre-existing stress than in the non gesture group, * that mothers attended gesturing classes in an attempt to alleviate their pre-existing stress, * that gesturing classes may cause mothers to view their child negatively. This critique will firstly provide an overall evaluation of the article with reference to strengths and weaknesses found. Flaws will also be highlighted with suggestion to how these could be rectified. Points of detail in the evaluation will then be expanded and conclusions di scussed. Overall evaluation First and foremost, the overall presentation of the article appears to lack in structure and organisation; this results in a lack of flow and clarity. In the introduction, the research question and key definitions of interest (i. e. ‘gesture, ‘non gesture’ and ‘stress’) are not discussed at the beginning. Characteristics of non gesturing mothers are instead firstly mentioned in the discussion section. The outline of categories in the background demographic questionnaire should have been made aware to readers in the methodology. Furthermore, in the results, findings from the study should have been stated in the opening paragraph. A fundamental flaw consistent throughout the article regards its lack of sufficient detail in ensuring strength of argument. In the introduction and discussion more research is needed in relation to how and why parental stresses occur to support findings. Furthermore unjustified claims are used to sustain argument which questions the validity of the research. The lack of detail regarding the direction of study also instigates ambiguity. More information is also needed about the procedure of the study so as to allow for replication. Further details as to how these flaws can be rectified are discussed later. Fundamental flaws are apparent regarding the non-random sample used and the lack of baseline stress measures. As no baseline pre-test has been conducted authors’ claims, as stated previously, can only be based on speculation. More information is provided on these flaws in the latter section. Strengths highlighted in the article include the demographic information provided. This information is useful as it allows for generalisation of results by ensuring groups are appropriately matched and offers useful information for future research in the region. (Keith, 2010). Furthermore the PSI questionnaire used, is well validated (Colver, 2006); using a creditable measuring instrument like this increases the reliability of the study. Moreover, the correct statistical test has been used, ANCOVA, and results are also provided with appropriate information. Abstract and Introduction The abstract fails to provide a rationale for the study; as this is unclear, readers may misjudge the subject matter. There is also no description of the stimuli used; the meaning of ‘gesturing’ is unexplained. Authors should elaborate upon what they mean by ‘gesturing’ so as to avoid misinterpretation. However, principal findings and design measures used in the study are stated. The introduction appears to lack in structure and organisation. No initial description of research question with reference to what it attempts to demonstrate is present; this is firstly mentioned in the third paragraph. Furthermore, authors first provide a definition of ‘gesturing’ in midpoint of this section. Considering this topic is the phenomenon of the study it would have been more appropriate to be stated at the beginning, rather than after the discussion of the benefits of gesturing; this may prevent misinterpretation. Although an explanation of ‘non-gesturing’ is provided in the discussion section, it would also be helpful for readers if it were included in the introduction; this enables differentiation between the two conditions. Similarly, a definition of the authors’ interpretation of ‘stress’ could have been stated at the start in ensuring readers’ clarity of terms. There is also no statement of hypothesis. nd authors do not provide a rationale or historical backdrop, therefore it lacks in significance and does not substantially contribute to the literature. Moreover, research discussed appears to be framed as a general review of literature and set out in list form with a lack of evaluation. For example, research has been described in relation to a study that has found no relationship between gesturing and linguistic benefits in infants (Kirk, Howlett, Pine and Fletcher), however it has not been evaluated or linked to the aims of the study. Furthermore, there are limited findings provided relating to the negative aspects of gesturing. Considering the paper is directed towards whether these classes affect parental stress, more research should be discussed in relation to the disapproval of gesturing classes, to support findings in the article. In addition, the article has included different research examples to support their view that parental stress can inhibit parent-child relationships, however there is no development in argument of how or why these stresses occur. To rectify, in ensuring clarity, more detail should be provided whereby these examples should be put in context with direct reference to the research question. Moreover, unjustified claims have been used in an attempt to sustain argument; for example, Howlett et al. , (2011) highlight ‘‘advertising claims that baby sign will reduce parental frustration and stress have little empirical foundation’. As this statement is not explained, it may seem misleading and as an ineffective use of argument. There is also no valid reference provided. In improving the structure and validity of their argument, authors should use evidence from influential papers to provide further detail in supporting their claims. The direction of study also appears ambiguous as authors switch between terms when stating the aim of the research. It is unclear whether authors are focusing on gesturing affecting stress or gesturing reducing stress. Howlett et al. , (2011) firstly state, ‘there are valid reasons to suggest that gesturing with an infant could reduce parental stress, this paper evaluates that claim’, (p. 438) they continue by stating, ‘this research investigates whether gesturing with an infant affects parenting stress’ (p438). One clear statement of what is being intended to measure needs to be used throughout the article so as to avoid confusion. The final paragraph includes a vague definition of variables whereby readers are left to determine their own assumptions. For example, it is stated that the frequency and duration of gesture use was used to measure the relationship between gesture use and stress, however it is unclear at this stage whether authors are implying ‘gesturing’ in terms of when mothers’ attended gesturing classes or their general use of gesturing; in and out of classes. The PSI is outlined, however researchers have not explained its benefits or why it have been use; this may leave readers questioning its credibility. Furthermore, it is important for researchers to include a statement of predictions, however this is not present. Methodology The authors recruited 178 participants (mothers) from the south-east of England; the sample size represents regional bias as mothers’ solely attending gesturing classes in this region is not representative of the whole country. Age range of infants used in the study is firstly mention in this section. It is stated infants ranged between 3 and 36months; however research discussed in the introduction only refers to the importance of gesturing from 9 months. Therefore authors have not justified the relevance of focusing on infants younger than 9 months; in certifying readers understanding, this could have been mentioned in the introduction. Authors have stated the measuring instruments used in the study. A strength regards the sufficient detail provided about the PSI booklet; examples of typical features such as the subscales of both the child and parent domains have been described. However no further details are provided about the background demographics questionnaire; categories are presented in the results section, however, it would be helpful for readers if details were included in this section. The potential confounding effects of using self-report questionnaires should also be noted. Social desirability bias may be apparent whereby participants may respond in a favourable light; mothers may not want to admit they are experiencing difficulties and respond untruthfully. Furthermore, as questionnaires are standardised, ambiguous questions cannot be explained; this may lead participants to misinterpret questions. Motivation for parents to complete questionnaires may also be scarce, resulting in superficial responses. In helping overcome these difficulties, authors could have stated whether participants were informed about why the information was collected and how the results will be beneficial; if participants knew the importance of their responses and were informed that negative responses were equally as helpful as positive, it may have made them want to answer more honestly. A fundamental flaw in methodology regards the fact that authors have not measured parental stress levels before conducting study. As there is no baseline stress measures prior to class attendance, there is no way of knowing if gesturing classes caused an increase in stress or what would have happened regardless of the implementation of the program; to rectify, researchers should use a pre-test methodology. Furthermore, another weakness in the methodology regards the fact that no ethic considerations are discussed. For example, authors could have included whether participant confidentiality was taken into account and whether de-briefing was offered subsequent to the study to respondents who may have expressed signs of upset. Description of procedures appears to lack in detail whereby there is no sequential pattern to how the research was carried out. There is also no precision in relation to what is investigated, to whom, and under what conditions. For example, Howlett et al. , (2011) state ‘contact was made with the infant groups’ (p. 39); more information should be provided such as how and when participants were contacted. Furthermore, no information is provided on how many classes parents had attended before the study or when the questionnaires took place; more sufficient detail is needed so as to allow replication and in ensuring consistency. There are also issues surrounding the amount of time participants were given to complete the PSI; it is stated the questionnaire takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, however, the procedure of collection differed between participants. Some gave completed questionnaires to a group leader, others were returned by post; the same conditions should be applied to all participants in ensuring standardisation. In addition, authors have not provided details of data collection or analysis undergone in the study; to avoid ambiguity it is important to include where the scores used in the analyses have derived from. An apparent fundamental flaw in the procedure relates to the fact that participants were not randomly allocated to the two groups in the study; randomisation is important as it eliminates sources of bias and ensures unpredictability. To rectify, random selection of mothers from a population could participate in the study. Results The beginning paragraph of the results is too vague; the hypothesis is not stated and no information on what statistical tests were used is provided. Furthermore, what the study found has not been not stated; it is firstly mentioned half way through this section. However, a strength in the article regards the demographic information provided for the two groups of mothers. Hours a week mothers’ work, maternal education, family income and siblings were included. It also highlights the similarities and equivalence between the two groups, making the interpretation of results valid. Another strength to this study regards the fact that researchers have applied the correct statistical tests. Two analyses of ANCOVA were conducted to measure the differences between the gesturing and non gesturing groups’ PSI scores. ANCOVA is appropriate to use as it allows to compare one variable (PSI stress scores) in two or more groups (gesture group and non gesture group) ith consideration for variability of other variables; covariates (‘sibling status’ was used as a covariate in the first ANCOVA and ‘birth order’; in the second). Controlling ‘sibling status’ and ‘birth order’ stops these conditions being confounding variables and ensures validity. As ‘sibling status’ and ‘birth control’ covariates have been controlled, it may have been more beneficial for readers if authors ma de aware of these strategies used prior to the results section as there is no discussion relating to siblings until this point. Results found from ANCOVA also confirm to readers exactly what the researchers were intending to measure; after confusion from the introduction, uncertainties are clarified and findings explain that the focus is upon whether attending gesturing classes affects parental stress. Results are also provided with adequate information whereby the obtained F value, df and level of significance have been stated. Furthermore researchers are correct in using a Pearson’s r correlation in confirming results which is used to see if there is a correlation between at two continuous variables. By doing so, it was found that there was no relationship between how long or often gesture groups mothers had been gesturing with their infant, and the mothers’ total stress scores. Therefore mothers stress levels were unrelated to frequency and duration. Furthermore, in this section descriptive statistics have been provided in two separate tables. In ‘Table One’, which shows the ‘mean (S. D) stress scores for each item on the PSI by group’, data does not seem to be explained in full. The scale used is unclear and readers have not been informed on the system used whereby there is confusion as to what the numbers mean. Tables 2 which shows the ‘summary of two ANCOVA results’, is more coherent as a brief description is displayed underneath describing the covariates. Discussion In this section, yet again, the aim of the research remains unclear; it is stated ‘the aim of the study was to investigate the impact of gesturing with an infant upon parental stress’ (p442), authors need to be more specific in their interpretation of ‘gesturing’, whether they are referring to attendance of gesturing classes or general use of gesturing is uncertain. Possible explanations for findings have been discussed, such as the view that there may have been a difference between gesturing and non gesturing mothers due to gesturing mothers feeling more stressed prior to the study. Authors continue by suggesting these mothers chose to attend gesturing classes because of these feelings of stress in hope that they would help. However, authors’ claims can only be seen as speculation as no baseline measurement was used. It should be noted that researchers have evaluated their findings and acknowledged that as baseline measures are not present, no assumptions can be made as to why mothers who attended gesturing classes had increased stress levels compared to non gesturing mothers or whether they were more stressed before attending the classes. Due to the lack of solid findings, like in the introduction, groundless claims have been used in an effort to uphold argument in explaining mothers’ cause of stress. For example, it is stated ‘mothers have high aspirations for their child and the parenting industry may, albeit unwittingly, foster maternal insecurities’(p443); no justification has been provided for this claim. Moreover, additional research is needed to support the authors’ concluding claims that attending gesturing classes may be detrimental and effect mothers’ perception of their infant in a negative light. Only Hyson’s (1991) study relating to mothers who induced academically focused activities on preschool children has been used as evidence to back up this claim, this does not justify the authors’ inflated claims. To conclude, even though this article has used creditable measuring instruments and appropriate statistical tests, Howlett et al’s claims can only be seen as speculation as no pre-test baseline is used. No findings can be validated without measuring the stress levels of mothers prior to class attendance, whether increase in stress has occurred due to attending gesturing classes in unknown. For future recommendations, authors could use a baseline measures to test mothers’ stress scores prior to the study.