Essay about Reciprocity in Anthropology - 2137 Words

The way every being experiences the world around us is mostly constructed by the culture we are exposed to and brought up in. The world makes sense to us because of the ways culture influences our perception. We experience the world around us in a time, space, and mentality that are built solely by culture. The Kaluli are a tribal clan from Highland New Guinea who experience their lives through reciprocity. The way the Kaluli form relationships amongst one another, communicate, and practice their everyday lives is based through gift-giving and reciprocity. The Kaluli are socially dependent beings who have constructed a social mechanism in which everyone participates in the art of reciprocity to maintain and build these social relations†¦show more content†¦By compensating oneself through aggressive manners, the Kaluli are able to make sure that no one is pushed further than the other, and that at all times everything is equal. (Schieffelin, p.136) â€Å"Such interventions, which were quiet common, seem aimed more at allowing the interaction to conclude properly than with scolding or punishing the offender.† (Schieffelin, p.137) Thus, in the Gisaro ritual it is appropriate for a host to be angered by the performer and react in an aggressive manner. By performing the Gisaro, both the visitors and the hosts of the occasion share the exchange of emotion and ritual duties. Like the Gisaro, the Kaluli people partake in many other traditional ceremonies that show the reciprocity of food, labour, and duties. In marriage there is an abundance of gift-giving and labour sharing which involves both the groom and the bride’s family. When a bride is chosen, the groom must compensate the bride’s family with brides-wealth, and both sides begin to part-take in many ceremonies. (Schieffelin, p.26) One side will bring the other many fruits and meat, and then the other side will return the favour by doing the same, creating an on-going cycle of food-g iving. (Schieffelin, pg. 26) Food is continuously exchanged and prepared by both in-laws because it is one of the best methods the Kaluli use to form and maintain social relations with their in-laws and family. â€Å"Food as gift orShow MoreRelatedWhy Do Anthropologists Study Gift Giving?1682 Words   |  7 PagesWhy study Gifts? The anthropology of gifts has been mostly studied in the context of non-Western cultures. The important roles of gift giving were highlighted by classical anthropologists such as Malinowski, Mauss and Levi-Strauss. They stressed the significance of reciprocity and obligation suggested in gift exchange and that gift giving is a one practice of material expression that integrates a society. Gift giving is essential to the studies of many anthropological debates such as sociabilityRead MoreEconomic Behavior And Its Effects On Society1367 Words   |  6 PagesKatelyn Cathcart ECON 100-01 Hamilton December 11, 2014 Economies According to Anthropology Humans have been evolving the way they live for centuries. With the billions of people that live on the planet today, it would be no surprise that people across the globe have varied ways in which they live. These lifestyles can be as old as those our ancestors thousands of years ago had practiced, to the mechanized practices we see in 21st century Western societies. Communities can be categorized into oneRead MoreStone Age Economics3773 Words   |  16 Pages â€Å"If economics is the dismal science, the study of hunting and gathering economies must be its most advanced branch† (Sahlins 1972: 1). Stone Age Economics is one of the well-known books in the subfield of economic anthropology provided by an American cultural anthropologist, Marshall Sahlins. This book is a slight representation in the literature dealing with ‘primitive’ or ‘tribal’ economic life. This book consists of a series of chapters that lacks a proper conclusion of Sahlins discoveriesRead MoreThe Anthropology Of Welfare And Social Protection809 Words   |  4 PagesDuring my current position as a Teaching Associate (and Affiliated Lecturer) I wrote and delivered the core second-year course of eight lectures, and facilitated eight MPhil seminars, in Economic Anthropology. I also wrote and delivered two lectures concerning the anthropology of welfare and social protection, supervised over forty students for the papers SAN1, SAN2, S5 and SAN8, and supervised an undergraduate dissertation. My effectiveness as a lecturer is attested by a quantitative evaluationRead MoreWhat Are The Fou r Primary Types Of Human Adaptation?1685 Words   |  7 PagesChapter 1. 4. What are the four primary types of human adaptation? Why has their interrelationship been particularly important for the human species? Anthropology recognizes four primary types of human adaptation: genetic change, developmental adjustment, acclimatization and cultural adaptation. Individuals may develop a successful adaptation with the help of biological evolution. i.e. genetic change, that is caused by the constant environmental stress, experienced by many generations. It is a well-knownRead MoreComparing The Endicotts And Dettwylers Ethnographies1773 Words   |  8 Pages1. Compare and contrast the Endicotts’ and Dettwyler’s ethnographies. What are the objectives? How they reflect on the goals of anthropology? What are the shortcomings of each? The Headman Was a Woman (collaboratively written by both Kirk M. Endicott and Karen L. Endicott) and Dancing Skeletons: Life and Death in West Africa (written by Katherine A. Dettwyler) both have anthropological focuses on the cultures and practices of various tribes from different countries, however, their accounts andRead MoreWorld Wars And The Great Depression1059 Words   |  5 Pagesbelieving that the market is the rational way of circulating goods or allocating resources. The market society, rather than inevitable outcome, like all economies, is a mere historical contingency. Historical and anthropological evidence shows how reciprocity, redistribution and exchange have mixed and co-existed with social arrangements, and that each one of these interactions has taken on different forms, meanings and social functions for the participants. These economic interactions were often governedRead MoreThe Full Time Position Of Teaching Associate960 Words   |  4 Pagesundergraduat e students on the following papers: SAN1, SAN2, SAN8, and S5 (SAN6). In addition to supervising, I have written and delivered eight core second year lectures on Economic Anthropology and two lectures on the anthropology of welfare and social protection. I have also c0-facilitated eight MPhil seminars in Economic Anthropology and a five-day MPhil workshop on social anthropological research methods. While I have dedicated much of my vacation time to my own research, I have solely concentrated duringRead MoreAnthropology Is The Study Of Humanity959 Words   |  4 PagesThough Anthropology is the study of humanity, early anthropologists only focused on men during their ethnographic research of various cultures, leaving out women and children. Anthropology has adapted allowing modern anthropologists to focus on all members of society. Considering men were the focus of the discipline for so long, you would not expect there to be a gap in such a fundamental aspect of human evolution, men as fathers. In Embodying Culture, Tsipy Ivry, writes that, generally, an IsraeliRead MoreMbuti People of Zaire2211 Words   |  9 PagesGenerally they lack formal patterns of ranking and stratification, place no restriction on the number of people capable of exercising authority or occupying positions of prestige and have economies which are based on generalized reciprocity† (Fabbro, 1978). The reciprocity aspect of the Mbuti people social organization is important in them maintaining good relationship with villager. Villagers provide the Mbuti with foods from their gardens in exchange for needed materials from the forest. The

Reflection - 1218 Words

Reflection on your personal development Reflection is a major factor in developing self-awareness to improve services provided to everyone around me, this is to develop my own understanding in realising the good and bad made previously. Moving forward with a better understanding, as well as rectifying the mistake whilst recognizing the good points, (Horton-Deutsch and Sherwood, 2008). Working in a domiciliary setting and visiting vulnerable adults within their homes, I am constantly trying to provide a better service and care towards them and this is where reflection is crucial as this improves the quality of my job performance, providing me with a learning curve for the future. Since starting the course there have been many†¦show more content†¦Jackson and Thurgate, (2011) have stated PDP plan and a SWOT analysis enables support workers to focus their workplace activities on achieving structured and achievable goals this will help analysis the reality of reaching their target. Reflecting on time management is important due to the service users well-being and so Bach and Ellis (2011) have mentioned that in order to progress further, I need to achieve time framed tasks, valuing the importance of time is vital to developing better time management. Leading me to build confidence gradually and this also helps me work well within a team. Partaking in small group meetings to encourage my communication, linking theory to practice, also thinking before speaking, positive attitude with good breathing techniques will assist in better confidence within myself for future in practice and in university. At work, there are policies and procedures in place, if any incident occurs and there are also self-evaluation forms and reflective supervisions with the manager every three months in order to be able to reflect on ourselves in practice. While in practice a service user had to wait for a while before we could attend to him because of miscommunication between the multidisciplinary team. This short falling could have been avoided,Show MoreRelatedReflection1650 Words   |  7 PagesIan-Bradley Tancred This essay analyses and describes what reflection is and how it supports your personal and professional learning. It elaborates upon how and why recognizing your strengths and weaknesses are important and how they can enhance lifelong learning. It describes what arguments and assertions are, what the differences are between them and which one is better. Debnath describes reflection as a means of self-examination to learn from knowledge and experiences which will help transformRead MoreReflection1479 Words   |  6 PagesReflections Both simple and complex reflections were used. A simple reflection used towards the beginning of the interview transpired into, â€Å"pretty active out doing a lot of things.† Alternatively, a complex reflection used when reflecting on Sarah’s feelings about what her friends think about her not socializing subsisted of, â€Å"it bothers you thinking about them, wondering about your intentions.† I used twice as many complex reflections as simple reflections. Unfortunately, I should have usedRead MoreReflection On The Word Reflection 701 Words   |  3 PagesFor me the word ‘reflection’ means taking time to really dig deep into my thoughts, to contemplate something meaningful and significant, to make a decision that often involves me and my future. It has a personal and emotional connection. Daudelin (1996) uses the word ‘reflection’ to encourage managers to create time to recognise the value of learning from past and current work s ituations (‘experience’) and to adapt this learning to new situations. I would prefer to choose the words ‘thought’ or ‘consideration’Read Morereflection703 Words   |  3 Pageshelpful/ inspiring. Your completed template form and content should be a CRITICAL reflection of the paper/ chapter content but NOT merely summarize what you have read. TEMPLATE FOR REFLECTIONS ON EXPERIENCES DATE: PLACE: The experience 1. What experience are you reflecting on (class session, project group meeting, particular piece of reading, other)? Give a brief account of this experience. 2. 3. Reflections on Experience 4. 2. Looking back, what was particularly memorable/ interestingRead MoreReflection Of Illusion1635 Words   |  7 Pages Shattering a Reflection of Illusion I stare blankly at the blinking caret. Propped up snugly against three quilted pillows and one calculus textbook is my laptop. To be more specific, a laptop opened to an empty Microsoft Word document. Writing a speech is no easy task, but writing a valedictory address is like playing darts with spaghetti. Humbly accepting the position as the class valedictorian, I have been graced with the task of writing an excerpt that would fill my classmates’ hearts withRead MoreNursing reflection.12855 Words   |  52 PagesReflective Essay This essay will look at reflection on a critical incident that has promoted a positive outcome. It is not a very major incident but it stands out as it has a potential for learning. This essay will identify and explain Johns (1994) model of reflection and explain what reflection is and why reflective practice is necessary and how it can be used. Schone (1983) recommended reflection on critical incidence as a valuable term, sited in Ghaye and Lillyman (1997) a critical incidentRead MoreReflection Essay1616 Words   |  7 Pagesintegral part of nursing. It will also demonstrate how reflection enabled me to make sense of and learn from this experience, as well as identify any further learning developments needed to improve my practice and achieve the level of competency needed for when I qualify as an assistant practitioner. While discussing the knowledge underpinning practice, evidence based literature will be reviewed to support my discussion and for the purpose of reflection the essay will be written in the first person. SpouseRead MoreReflection On Self Development Through Reflection1854 Words   |  8 Pagesthrough reflection is a key issue of education and learning (Kennison, 2012), where you learn through experience (Tashiro, Shimpuku, Naruse and Matsutani, 2013), learn to self-evaluate (Duffy, 2013), identify gaps in knowledge and detect where further training or study is required to improve practice (Olarerin, 2013). Ultimately reflection is thought to be constant learning from practice, thus refining knowledge and experiences and putting them into practice (Naidoo, 2013). Within my reflection examplesRead MoreReflection Essay781 Words   |  4 PagesI determined that I needed a new interest, something to keep my mind engaged and challenged. I enrolled in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) through the Columbia Southern University (CSU) just for fulfillment. This reflection assignment exercise proves to be the catalyst for my future college endeavors. The assignment to reflect on DBA program dreamed of taking steps towards realizing those ideas and course accomplishments right now. Due to time some course assignments, I will embrace,Read MorePersonal Reflection756 Words   |  4 PagesPersonal reflections are characterized as learning through experience in gaining new insights and changed perception of self and practices. Reflection can be a difficult experience without the support and guidance of an expert (Johns, 2004). This personal reflection presents an exciting opportunity for me to consider how successful my placement in the intermediate care has been in terms of my own personal learning. By reflecting on the positive aspects of the placement, I will be able to make sense

Advanced Microeconomics Economics - Click to Free Sample

Questions: 1. Examine the difference between the traditional law of state responsibility and international human rights law. 2. Analysis and differentiate between public act and the act of public officials by employing the act of state rule. Answers: 1. In this particular context, the assessment and analysis is conducted on the traditional law of state responsibility and international human rights law, and find out the differences between the traditional laws of state responsibility and international human rights law (Allott, 2002). Here, in this study a clear comparison is observed about the scope and nature of law between state responsibility and international human rights law with the help of the given case study. Here in the given case it is observed that when in 1979, the Nicaragua government of General Anastasio Somoza obliterated by the Sandinista revolutionaries, as normally happened the members of old government were compelled to escape from their respective country so that they can avoid the justice of the revolutionaries. However, initially the defeated aristocracies emigrated to London and Paris at the end they got shelter at Miami. One of the emigrants from Nicaragua was Mrs. Josefine Navarro de Sanchez. Mrs. Sanchez was wife of minister of defence of former government, lodge a case in a United State court against the Banco Central, the central bank of Nicaragua as a cheque of $1500, 000, which was issued to her by the said bank just before the fall of former Government cannot be en-cashed in the session of new government (Fox, 2008). She lodged the suit for passing an order to honour the cheque. However, the court verdict was different; instead of giving an order to honour the cheque, the court dismissed the suit. Then Mrs. Sanchez appealed, the basic issue of that appeal was that a citizen of a nation could lodge case against the organizations of the citizens own nation for cheating or charge the organization for contractual violation in the court of different nation. However, traditional international law deals with the sovereign state not between the states and individuals (Loveland, 2012). According to the law if citizen of a country, is harmed by the citizen or organization of another cou ntry then international law can be applied. However, where the petitioner and the con are from the same country, the international law cannot help. Owing to this, recently several amendments are implemented in international law, inspired by the international human rights. 2. There is a huge difference between the public act and the act of public officials state rule and a critical analysis is considered in this particular study and the proper evaluation is also done as per the given case study. The analysis is carry out on public act and the act of public officials and find out the differences between the public act and the act of public officials by using the act of state doctrine. In the specified case study, it is observed that the company W. S. Kirkpatrick Co., administrated by Harry Carpenter, gave 20% commission to the officials of Nigerian Government (Raic, 2002). The commission had given via a Nigerian citizen Tundu Akindele and his companies for a contract of construction an aero medical centre and for supplying the related equipments to the medical centre at Kaduna, which is an Air Force Base in Nigeria. Another bidder, who participated in the bid but not succeed was Environmental Tectonics Co. Somehow the Environmental Tectonics Co., learn t that W. S. Kirkpatrick Co., gave commission to the officials for accomplish the contract, they brought the matter to the Nigerian Air Force and United State Embassy in Lagos. After subsequent investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Attorney of New Jersey file a case against Mr. Carpenter and the company W. S. Kirkpatrick Co. The charge was violation of foreign corrupt practice and charge was implemented by the act of Foreign Corrupt Practice Act of 1977 (Shaw, 2003). The court found both Mr. Carpenter and his company guilty. Then the respondent carried this case in the United States District Court of the District of New Jersey against Carpenter, Akindele and the company W. S. Kirkpatrick Co., demanding compensation under act of the Racketeer influenced and Corrupt Organization Act., the Robinson- Patman Act., New Jersey Anti-racketeering Act. The perpetrators tried to discharge the complaint under the Rule 12(b) (6) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure on the basis of the argument that the action was debarred the act of state doctrine (Smith, 2011). Surprisingly the court verdict for the perpetrators instead of the respondent as the respondent could not proof the perpetrators guilty. In this process, the perpetrators released however they committed corruptions. References Allott, P. (2002).The health of nations. Cambridge, U.K.: Cambridge University Press. Fox, H. (2008).The law of state immunity. Oxford [England]: Oxford University Press. Loveland, I. (2012).Constitutional Law, Administrative Law, and Human Rights. Oxford: OUP Oxford. Raic, D. (2002).Statehood and the law of self-determination. Hague: Kluwer Law International. Shaw, M. (2003).International law. Cambridge, U.K.: Cambridge University Press. Smith, R. (2011).Textbook on International Human Rights. Oxford: OUP Oxford.

British Petroleum

Question: BP was a member of the Seven Sisters collective of international oil companies in the 1970s. Write an essay on BP and Discuss both the attractions and disadvantages of BP as a possible take-over target, and identify the most probable bidders for BP. Give some examples of the problems that face these potential bidders. Answer: Introduction The study is having in depth discussion about the strategies adopted by British Petroleum, that is, BP for achieving their target. As mentioned by Albrechtsen and Besnard (2014), British Petroleum is one of the biggest public sector companies which are famous of oil and gas related activities. Some of the major activities which British Petroleum performs are exploration, production of oil and gas. The headquarter office of British Petroleum is located in London, England. Apart from this, study is having focus on different strategies adopted by BP regarding their target and other. With the help of this study, the impact of low oil price strategy adopted by BP is also analyzed. British petroleum is also known for their good quality of services, oil and gas products. In context to this Chanysheva and Biryukova (2015) commented, regarding their business activities they follow strategy for tender and bidding. The study is having identification of most apparent bidder and the characteristic required for perfect bidder. The analysis of issues regarding bidder and other process of BP is also focus point of this study work. Moreover, the Britain is planning to retain their imperial oil and gas company, that is, British Petroleum (Grunskoy and Perkhutkin, 2014). The strategies and planning which British has done to maintain ownership their imperial organization is analyzed in this study. Strategies adopted by BP for achieving the targets As mentioned by Glau et al. (2014), the strategies adopted British Petroleum for achieving their target is short term as well as long term strategies. Some of the major strategies adopted are proper goal setting, SMART strategy and others. With the help of these strategies British Petroleum tries to set proper goal and follow effective procedures. The SMART strategy used by British Petroleum is as; specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. The target regarding their each employee as well as overall is decided prior to strategy adoption methods. In relation to this Grondin et al. (2014) stated, with the help of target decided by organization strategies are implemented. On the other hand, British Petroleum tries to follow SMART strategy for attaining their target. As stated by Grunskoy and Perkhutkin (2014), with the help this strategy the person which will be involved in its operation and others are also identified. For example, to achieve the target of oil and gas production, only the experts are involved. Under the specific step the goal setting is done with the help of operation category. On the other hand, the target and strategy for each and every task of BP is different. That is, the strategy for production, exploration, sales and other activities are different. As mentioned by Jacoby (2012), if the target decided by manager or organization is not specific and measurable. Then the strategies followed should be realistic and effective regarding their operation. They try to complete their each activity on time, that is, on time completion of activities and task are their main focuses. In addition to this, the managers of British petroleum also try to motivate their employees regarding on time task completion. According to opinion of Javah erdashti et al. (2014), with the help of long term strategies BP tries to increase their sustainability and others. They also focus on their relationship with stakeholder and shareholders. In perspective to this Krupa (2013) stated, some of the other strategies adopted by British petroleum for achieving their target is; effective motivational strategy, proper work life balance and other. The main focus of British Petroleum is exploration, production of oil and gas, so the employees involved in their operation belong to different beliefs and views (Albrechtsen and Besnard, 2014). The motivational and managerial theories adopted by managers of BP managers are implemented taking into consideration their employees and other factors. Apart from this, the some of the in house strategies which helps in achieving the target are; ay structure, effective communication method, training programs and others. As stated by Lebedko (2014), these strategies are considered as short term strategy, that is, BP managers try to implement updated and effective strategies. On the other hand, with the change in operation and environment these strategies are changed. Identification of most apparent bidder for BP In context to this Linde et al. (2013) stated, the bid will be suitable if they are having lowest bidding price. They also provide best services as well as after services in that price only. The main feature on which selection of apparent bidder is dependent is; they should have lowest completion time of project. In case of British Petroleum the bidders the most probable bidder is that consist of proper information regarding the completion and process of project. They should also have good and positive reviews from their past clients related to projects (Grunskoy and Perkhutkin, 2014). The main task for which British Petroleum requires bidding and tendering process are retaining the ownership. That is, Britain government or other organization when bid for retaining the ownership of BP. As mentioned in the case study, BP has incurred huge amount of money and costs which may affect the bidding process. The cost incurred by BP can affect the operation of both the companies and others, that is, bidder organization or Britain government. In case if Britain government tries to retain their ownership on BP then the cost incurred by them will affect the economy of Britain. In addition to this, it will also impact the business related market share of Britain. On the other hand, in case of bidder organization, the cost incurred by BP will impact their profit share, operation and others. In perspective to this Linde et al. (2013) stated, the organization who is incurring huge amount of cost if retained or acquired can affect the working, rules, regulation and other factors of the organization. As mentioned by Rodriguez and Soeder (2015), the most important characteristic on which selection of bidder is dependent is; low price and less completion time. For example, if British Petroleum wants to give their ownership to any other organization or government. Then they will try to start bidding process for it. In this case the bidder will be selected with the help of proper analysis and evaluation process. The bidders have to work in proper manner and with the proper coordination with host organization. The previous review is also analyzed in this process, to evaluate the bidder organization best points. Moreover, the report submitted by bidder is the main aspect on which they are selected. As stated by Romanova and Kotov (2014), the bidder should try to provide all the information required by Host Company, that is, British petroleum. There are several criteria predefined by British Petroleum regarding bidding and related task. As mentioned in the case study, the organization is planning to get under their old government, that is, Britain. The retention of British Petroleum can only be success fully done by Britain if they are having proper policies and procedure followed. In context to this Rusco (2012) stated, the retention of ownership can also be done with the help of bidding and related process. In case of retaining the ownership British Petroleum require proper working and operation process. They should also try to increase or expand their business in same country to continue the ownership. As stated by Sharaev and Pavlyuchenko (2014), the business operation, productivity and profitability of British Petroleum will help in this process. Analysis of major problems faced by bidder regarding managerial styles and political issues As opined by Thomas et al. (2014), the managerial style, political and other similar factors are which affect the working of British Petroleum. Some of the major issues which will be faced by bidder are regarding managerial style and political factors. In case of managerial style problems will be related to agreement. Suppose if, bidders are planning to complete with the help of some other methods. But the manager of British Petroleum wants to get activity completed in another style and then the chance of discomfort will be high. In relation to this Sharaev and Pavlyuchenko (2014) stated, some of the major managerial style followed by British petroleum are paternalistic, democratic and others. With the help of managerial styles, the British Petroleum managers try to maintain environment and complete their task. They also try to subordinate their sub team members with the help of managerial style. In addition to this Tudorica (2014) commented, every manager of British Petroleum follow their own style of managerial style to increase their team performance. Suppose if the managerial style followed by a manager of exploration team is paternalistic. That is, they will decide what is best and superior for their team members. Then in this case the bidder team will try to change operation style. The first one to oppose will be their team manager. So as stated by Sharaev and Pavlyuchenko (2014), the belief, thoughts of each and every person is different. With the change in belief the style of working and managerial st yle also changes. In case of political factor, every country follows their separate and different rules and regulation. With the change in country, the operation style and other related styles should be changed. As stated by Romanova and Kotov (2014), if British Petroleum do not change the style of operation according to their bidder the chance of conflict is high. Suppose is British Petroleum plans to open their new oil and gas exploration and production site in middle east, they have to follow al rules, regulation and political factors. On the other hand, with political factor they have to follow Middle East all code of conduct regarding business. As mentioned by Rodriguez and Soeder (2015), if British Petroleum does not follow their particular code of conduct, the operation will be affected. As stated by Linde et al. (2013), the main factor behind success of any organization like oil and gas company, British Petroleum is dependent on their managerial style and other factors. If managers of British Petroleum do not follow proper managerial and leadership style the operation will be affected. Impact of low oil prices of BP in achieving their targets The strategy which helps British Petroleum to increase their profitability in oil and gas market is low price of oil. In relation to this Grunskoy and Perkhutkin (2014) stated, there are several strategy adopted by British Petroleum regarding their productivity and profitability. Out which low oil pricing is the one. With the help of this strategy, they outsource their oil or other product of oil in oil price in comparison of their competitors. On the other hand, in some cases the low price strategy impact the profitability of them. For example, British Petroleum is planning to outsource their oil and gas product is east or any other location. But the perception of that country organization is; low price product and services are was low cost (Glau et al., 2014). Then profitability of British Petroleum will be affected. In addition to this, the target of organization will also be affected. As mentioned in the case study, the low price in the year of 2015 was followed by British Petroleum, which led to led to decrease in bid price and others. According to opinion of Albrechtsen and Besnard (2014), the continuation of low pricing will be one of the biggest barriers to British Petroleum. It will also affect the bidding process of organization. If organization will continue the low price oil strategy in each and every business operation, the chance of takeover will be increased. With the help of data presented in the case study, it is clear that low oil price strategy has affected the profit share of British Petroleum in dew years (Jacoby, 2012). It has also affected the capital as well as stock market of British Petroleum, which represents that, strategy should not be followed every time. Conclusion According to the data of case study, in Russia British petroleum is sixth ranked in oil and gas market. They are famous for their oil and gas exploration, production and others activities. The strategies followed by them impact the operation of British Petroleum. Apart from this, the takeover process of British Petroleum is increased due to their improper strategy implementation. That is, low oil pricing strategy, they adopted this strategy in each and every country which affected their productivity and profitability share. In oil and gas exploration and production market there are many competitors of British Petroleum. So the strategies followed by them should be effective for their sustainability process. On the other hand, the managerial style followed by organization also affects their several processes. That is, bidding, operation, retaining ownership and others. The bidder is apparent or effective once they are having proper conformation regarding completion of project. Some of the other information and criteria on which probable bidder are selected is; the lowest bidding and project completion time. References Albrechtsen, E. and Besnard, D. (2014). Oil and gas, technology and humans. Chanysheva, I. and Biryukova, V. (2015). THE MECHANISM OF MANAGEMENT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF ENTERPRISES OIL COMPLEX. OGBUS, (3), pp.576-589. Glau, K., Scherer, M. and Zagst, R. (2014). Innovations in quantitative risk management. Grondin, O., Thibault, L. and Qurel, C. (2014). Energy Management Strategies for Diesel Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Oil Gas Science and Technology Revue IFP Energies nouvelles, 70(1), pp.125-141. Grunskoy, T. and Perkhutkin, V. (2014). Improve information support safety management system of tunnel works in oil mines Yaregskoye field. OGBUS, (2), pp.392-406. Jacoby, D. (2012). Optimal supply chain management in oil, gas, and power generation. Tulsa, Okla.: PennWell Corp. Javaherdashti, R., Nwaoha, C. and Tan, H. (2014). Corrosion and materials in the oil and gas industries. Krupa, J. (2013). Optimal supply chain management in oil, gas, and power generation. Energy, 63, pp.400-401. Lebedko, A. (2014). Scope of state involvement in the management of oil and gas complex. OGBUS, (1), pp.397-411. Linde, P., Baram, M. and Renn, O. (2013). Risk Governance of Offshore Oil and Gas Operations. New York: Cambridge University Press. Rodriguez, R. and Soeder, D. (2015). Evolving water management practices in shale oil gas development. Journal of Unconventional Oil and Gas Resources, 10, pp.18-24. Romanova, T. and Kotov, D. (2014). A MODERN APPROACH TO PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT IN THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION. OGBUS, (6), pp.562-587. Rusco, F. (2012). Oil and gas management. Sharaev, N. and Pavlyuchenko, V. (2014). IMPROVEMENT OF THE PUMP EQUIPMENT WHEN CARRYING OUT TECHNOLOGICAL OPERATIONS ON THE ARLANSKY FIELD IN OIL AND GAS EXTRACTION MANAGEMENT ARLANNEFT, OGBUS, (6), pp.424-434. Thomas, E., Brittingham, M. and Stoleson, S. (2014). Conventional oil and gas development alters forest songbird communities. Jour. Wild. Mgmt., 78(2), pp.293-306. Tudorica, D. (2014). A Comparative Analysis of Various Methods of Gas, Crude Oil and Oil Derivatives Transportation. International Journal of Sustainable Economies Management, 3(1), pp.16-25.

J.G. Ballards texts Essay Example

J.G. Ballards texts Essay Empire of the Sun is a novel that takes the reader to the pre and post World War 11, and the repercussions of the detonation of the atom bomb over Hiroshima and Nagasaki, through the eyes of a very young British boy trapped in a war where there are no winners.The novel is a first hand description of most of the experiences of the author J.G. Ballard who was interned there from 1942 to 1945 in the same prison camps mentioned in the book. It is a profound and moving account of what it was like to be a boy in Japanese occupied Shanghai at wartime.J.G. Ballards texts have a great deal in common with each other. The Guardian said he is a writer who can be relied upon. He rarely writes much below his best, and if you develop a taste for his preoccupations you will find it satisfied by any of his earlier four books. Clearly this opinion gives the reader the impression that the novel is regarded as impressive and should be enjoyed by the reader. The Guardian went as far to say, indeed, it could be said that if there is still room for a masterpiece about the Second World War, then this is it. Like other masterpieces it gains its initial effect in standing at a slightly oblique and unexpected angle to its subject matter.Ballards heightened sensitivity to violence, as well as the corollary themes of isolation and social chaos, which permeate much of his work, may well have its roots in his childhood in wartime China. Ballards rich metaphoric prose and his emphasis on psychological and technological themes make him a somewhat unique and impressive figure in contemporary literature.Due to the theme being war, the reader can expect the language to be predominately harsh and somewhat vile, this use of language reflects the feelings people have towards war, and the feelings the characters would have felt towards the war. The text can be considered as somewhat surreal writing, that beguiles the reader with its gentleness, yet forces the reader to confront many atrocious episo des concerning the sick, the dying and the dead. The fact that the reader sees them from a childs perspective makes the descriptions even viler and explicitly shocking. His explicit use of language, and his crude descriptions of the events that occur, lead me to the conclusion that Ballard is unemotionally detached from this story, the events are his memories, yet he doesnt appear to put any feeling into the characters, this is especially the case within Jim. There are several occasions, where Jim witnesses brutal behaviour, yet no emotions of remorse or feelings of pity are apparent.Ballard conveys a sense of place, through his descriptions of the different nationalities that are present within the novel. The protagonist British characters are described as stoical throughout the war. The descriptions given presented of the Chinese give the setting of Shanghai. They are constantly described as insignificant people who only survive from the money that the British inject into the coun try. The Japanese, the nation whom instigated the war are seen as the people that give some of the characters hope. This is the case especially for Jim. Their bravery and stoicism impress him. The descriptions given of the Japanese convey a sense of atmosphere. The actions they take create the feelings of many of the characters.The American and Japanese planes are for Jim a symbolism of hope and freedom. Although he idolises the Japanese kamikaze pilots, the sites of the American planes symbolise and signify the end of the war.The novel begins prior to the attack on Pearl Harbour. The significance of the reader recognising this event is clear, as there are many references to the way in which this attack is publicised. To Jims dismay, even the Dean of Shanghai Cathedral had equipped himself with an antique projector. This shows the reader that war was a part of life for the people of Shanghai. This point is emphasised by the opening lines of the novel, Wars came early to Shanghai, ov ertaking each other like the tides that raced up the Yangtze. The dropping of the atom bomb is clearly another significant, event that the reader is supposed to recognise. The descriptions of the event given is complex and in thorough detail. But a flash of light filled the Stadium, flaring over the stands as if an immense American bomb had exploded somewhere to the northeast of Shanghai. Jim smiled at the Japanese, wishing that he could tell him that the light was a premonition of his death, the sight of his small soul joining the larger soul of the dying world. To Jim, the event of the atom bomb was symbolic for the death that was coming to him, and the death that had already reached many, his delirium had reached the stage that disallowed him to realise that the light he was seeing was literally a bomb sent from the Americans.Although Jim is a British boy of the wartime, he has distanced himself from the reality of the war. War as seen through the eyes of a child is an exhilarati ng and mysterious experience that rarely can be related to reality. The childlike disbelief that war will actually occur is evident many times throughout the novel, Sometimes the Pathe newsreels from England gave him the impression that, despite their unbroken series of defeats; the British people were thoroughly enjoying the war. It is clear that war to the British at this stage of the novel was considered a form of entertainment. The fact that whilst Jim was watching the newsreels, all he could think about was going to Dr. Lockwoods party, clearly shows the distance Jim has to the war.Shanghai during the time the novel was set, was inhabited by British, American and French people. These people were the upper class society of China. They were mainly there for their large firms that operated internationally. China was a colony of the British Empire, something, which greatly tormented the Japanese people as they felt they should be the owner of China. This great amount of upper class people had taken over China, and the local inhabitants had become almost inhuman and insignificant. This fact is clear throughout the novel. The opening paragraph demonstrates this sheer insignificance of this nationality of people. Wars came early to Shanghai, overtaking each other like the tides that raced up the Yangtze and returned to this gaudy city all the coffins cast adrift from the funeral piers of the Chinese Bund. The poverty of the Chinese is demonstrated here, the reader is aware that the Chinese cannot even afford to bury their dead. This description is symbolic for the majority of the Chinese race. Their bodies drift away in the wooden coffins, yet are always brought back by the tide, it is almost as if for the Chinese, there is no escape from this land that submises them so greatly. The imagery of the floating corpses introduces the theme of death and survival that pervades the novel.Jims attitude to the Chinese is demonstrated by one simple thing that he says, Ama h, dont touch it! Ill kill you! Clearly Jim has no respect for his Chinese slave, he assumes that he has enough power over her to order her death. The beggar outside Jims house demonstrates the social difference between the Chinese and Western European classes. Usually his mother would caution Yang to avoid the old beggar who lay at the end of the drive. But as Yang swung the heavy car through the gates, barely pausing before he accelerated along Amherst Avenue, Jim saw that the front wheel had crushed the mans foot. Even though the reader is aware that Jim has seen this happen to the old beggar, he doesnt appear to show any remorse or guilt towards the man, this lack of feelings is shown again when Jim witnesses the beheadings. The description given of the beheading is in great detail, but Jim doesnt demonstrate that he has any emotions about this public inhumane act. Usually Jim would have paused to observe the crowd, Jim watched the coolies and the pheasant women staring at the h eadless bodies. Jim is observing the situation in a manner that suggests to the reader that he is used to this sort of behaviour. This fact supports the stereotype that Ballard has as a detached and unemotional writer. Jims lack of emotion would appear almost abnormal to a reader, as a child would be usually upset and more respectful towards the dead, regardless of their nationality. Jims detachment from reality is once again demonstrated.Dr. Lockwoods party shows a strong contrast between the predominant nationalities within the novel. The British are indulging in extravagant parties, as a war is occurring. The party is full of British people dressed in bright exotic outfits, the entertainment consists of Cantonese acrobats climbing their comical ladders and pretending to disappear into the sky. The party is nothing short of what would be expected from the rich Westerners, but readers may regard it as somewhat insensitive to the war situation. The Chinese that are there are quietly removing a dead oriole from the deep end of the now drained swimming-pool. There are twenty Chinese women, dressed in black tunics and trousers, each on a miniature stool. They are sat shoulder-to-shoulder, weeding knives flashing at the grass, while keeping up an unstoppable chatter. Ironically, although the war is occurring, the Chinese people are still working as servants for the British; this shows the lack of importance of the Chinese in comparison to the British who are spending their time at a lavish party.It is during the party that Jims admiration of Japanese pilots first emerges. Whilst exploring an abandoned plane, Jim has his first encounter with the Japanese soldiers. He was about to jump from the blockhouse, when he noticed that a face was looking up at him from the trench. A fully armed Japanese soldier squatted by the broken earth wall, his rifle, webbing and ground sheet laid out beside him as if ready for inspection. An entire company of Japanese infantry was res ting in this old battlefield, as if re-equipping itself from the dead of an earlier war, ghosts of their former comrades risen from the grave and issued with fresh uniforms and rations. The Japanese appear to be like predators from this description, it is as if they are lying in wait for there pray, this is something that later in the novel Jim begins to admire. The descriptions given of the three nationalities, is a great contrast to what their lives are like within Lunghua Camp. There is almost a role reversal between the British and Chinese, and between the British and the Japanese.The Japanese, the instigators of the war, ironically are greatly admired by Jim, a boy from a nationality who would be considered one of their vast amount of enemies. This admiration comes in many forms throughout this novel. Jim was impressed by their bravery and stoicism, and their sadness which struck a curious chord with him, who was never sad. Although Jim deeply admired the Japanese, his admirati on for them grew stronger due to them having the things he didnt. Food the main attributer to life, was something that Jim lacked, and the Japanese had As they smoked their cigarettes the Japanese smiled to themselves, watching Jim devour the shreds of fatty rice. The Japanese soldier who had taken pity on Jim, recognising that this small boy was starving, began to laugh good-naturedly, and pulled the rubber plug from his metal water-bottle. Food is power within this period of time, it is therefore as if the Japanese are in control of all, they control Jim, but fortunately for him, they do not abuse this power. Due to the kindness of the Japanese soldiers, Jims admiration for them has grown. They have helped his survival. This relationship that Jim has with the Japanese occurs many times within the novel.Private Kimura is example of Jim bonding with a Japanese soldier. Private Kimuras kindness to Jim is clear within the form of many events that occur within the time that they know e ach other. Private Kimura had grown almost as much as Jim in his years at the camp. Jims admiration for the Japanese soldier had been noticed and this admiration was fed by Private Kimura often inviting Jim to the bungalow he shared with three other guards and allowed him to wear his kendo armour. This kindness to Jim is later contrasted by the brutal beating of the Chinese Coolie. Like many of Jims previously detailed and dispassionate descriptions of brutal behaviour, the coolies beating isnt described any differently. Private Kimura walked behind the rickshaw and kicked the wooden seat, hurling the vehicle against the coolies legs, raising their staves, they each struck him a blow on the head, then strolled away as if deep in thought. Jim whilst watching this horrid event appeared disconcerned he is described to be wondering whether to read an article about Winston Churchill. All of the British internees of the camp are described to be unconcerned and only sit and observe the eve nt, this demonstrates the differences of nationality status, although the Chinese and the British are both prisoners of war, under the Japanese authority, the Chinese are not given the right to be in a camp and to be looked after, even during times of war, they are inferior to the British and the Americans. The fact that no British internee would help the Chinese coolie shows their sheer unimportance within the eyes of the British. Jims upbringing is questionable here. Is he so disconcerned about the brutal event, as he has been hardened by war, or is he so disconcerned due to him being used to this kind of behaviour bestowed upon the Chinese. The most likely answer would be that he is used to this insignificance for Human life regardless of nationality.The Americans role within the novel is to bring hope. Jim is the predominant character that symbolises this hope. The first American characters to be introduced demonstrate this. Basie and Frank, appear to be using the war as a way t o make money, they appear to be disconcerned for their own safety. Frank says that Basie wants to stay in Shanghai now the Japs are here. He thinks we can make a pile of money once we get to the camps. Dr Ransome, someone whom isnt particularly fond of Basie tells Jim that its a good thing that youre friends with Basie. Hes a survivor, though survivors can be dangerous.Many internees consider the American blocks within the camp as the place to be, the place where everything is happening. Jim liked the Americans and approved of them in every way. Whenever he entered this enclave of irony and good humour his spirits rose. There they lay on their bunks and entertained a steady stream of adolescent girls, single British women and even a few wives drawn to them for reasons not very different from Jims. The Americans were clearly the idealised nationality within the camp that held a presence that made them appear to not have any cares in the world, this presence kept many people alive. Th e Americans symbolised hope, this hope for Jim, came within the shape of the American warplanes. Fearsome American planes emerged like pieces of the sun. Jim reflected that the prisoners ought to celebrate, throw their clogs in the air, seize the air raid siren and play it back at the incoming American planes. Although for the prisoners, this should have been a great moment, it wasnt. The repercussions of the war had taken its toll on many of the prisoners, and many like Jim were almost scared to leave the camp, for fear of what life without routine and rules would be like again.The British internees at Lunghua Camp, unlike the Americans refuse to take in the facts that they are prisoners of war, this is evident by due to the fact that they have named parts of the camp after British roads and places. The Vincents, the people whom Jim shared a room with, completely disregarded Jim, even though nationality wise he was one of there own. Mrs Vincent is described as treating Jim like her Number Two Coolie, and he was well aware that he tolerated this for reasons he barely understood. Ironically, the British who treat all Chinese with disrespect are treating Jim one of their own, in the same manner. The fact that Jim is only a child makes the situation even more callus. Mrs Vincent a woman who is already a mother, is pushing away a young boy, and not giving him any help what so ever. The curtain that the Vincents have up within the room is a clear indicator to Jim and to the audience that the Vincents do not want any part in Jims life. They do want to face the realities of war and work together, they want to remain a happy, private family.The British before the war, were described as being lavish and exotic people, they are now within the camp, shown to be the people who are the more feeble race. They are constantly described to be sat in their own excrement, something, which by many is considered to be degrading, and generally an embarrassing situation. The old wom en lay in the pools of urine at their husbands feet. The English brothers huddled against Basie while Mrs Hug leaned on her fathers knees. This description is a complete contrast to the previous way in which the British people were described, this description is somewhat similar to the constant way in which the Chinese people are thought of and said to be like.Mr Maxted and Dr Ransome two of the central British characters within the novel are separated from the typical British people. They are both characters that give the other internees hope. They both take on roles of responsibility within the camp. Dr Ransome is not only a doctor for the people, along with Basie; he is Jims tutor. He therefore provides medical help for internees and mental stimulation for Jim. He could therefore be considered as a person of power within the camp, he has to some extent the power to maintain peoples health, and with regards to Jim, he has the power of knowledge.Mr Maxted, towards the beginning of the novel, is described as a very easygoing man, Jim admired Mr Maxted, an architect turned entrepreneur who had designed the Metropole Theatre and numerous Shanghai nightclubs. Jim often tried to imitate his raffish manner, but soon found that being so relaxed was exhausting work, Mr Maxted was the perfect type of Englishman who had adapted himself to Shanghai. Mr Maxted is clearly an easygoing person, whom is adaptable to many situations. This attribute would help any person survive within the camp circumstances. Mr Maxted on many occasions assists Jim with getting food, making sure he is okay, tasks that an almost father figure would do. Mr Maxted can therefore be considered as a father figure to Jim that remains calm and collected, for the benefit of Jim and many others. Even with the foreboding events that lead to the death of Mr Maxted, he remains calm and gives Jim hope, in every situation possible. Good lad, Jamie you hang on. Mr Maxted is remaining hopeful for the sake of this young boy, whom without people to keep him occupied and hopeful, would more than likely be drawing near to his end.Jim although a British born character, adopts and idolises many other nationality traits. Jims dream is to become a Japanese pilot; this is ironic, as it is the Japanese who are keeping the British people within confinement. On numerous occasions, Jim tells the internees of Lunghua Camp, that he wishes to be a Japanese Kamikaze pilot, and how he admires their bravery and stoicism. Jims cultural upbringing and multicultural town, make him aware of cultural traits and differences between people from different nationalities. As he is only a young boy, Jim would be more inclined to adopt some of these multicultural traits and admire them; therefore his admiration for the Japanese isnt unexpected.Jims friendship with the young Japanese pilot makes the reader look upon the Japanese in a not so harsh light. The Japanese raised his wooden stake. Like a sleeper waking from a dream, he hurled it into the nettles. As Jim flinched, he reached into the waist-pocket of his flight overalls and drew out a small mango.Jim took the yellow fruit from the pilots calloused hand. The mango was still warm from his body. This act of kindness shown from the young Japanese pilot, shows the reader that the Japanese are not all cruel people, although they instigated this particular war, they are at war as well, things concerning food etc, are a problem for them to, and the fact that he has given Jim this exotic piece of fruit demonstrates the Japaneses kindness.The novels ends on a somewhat sombre note, although Shanghai has returned to the normal bustling city that it used to be, Jim has grown up and begun to notice the horrors of it, he has in many ways become aware of the horrors that the Chinese suffer from day to day. Jims confinement within the war has opened up his mind to what is right and wrong in respect to the way in which people are treated. When he witnesse s the British and American sailors urinating down the steps, this new awareness becomes evident. Fifty feet below them, the Chinese watched without comment as the arcs of urine formed a foaming stream that ran down the street. When it reached the pavement the Chinese stepped back, their faces expressionless. Jim glanced at the people around him, the clerks and coolies and peasant women, well aware of what they were thinking. One day China would punish the rest of the world, and take a frightening revenge. Jims time within the camp has made him realise that the Chinese are actually alive, their existence has actually become noticeable to Jim, and he now disagrees with the cruel treatment that he once issued onto them.The final paragraph of the novel is very similar to the beginning paragraph, except the mood is greatly different. The description unlike many in the book appears to have a sense of sadness and feeling to it. Previously when the Chinese coffins were described, a brief de scription was just given, whereas now, the description ends driven once again to the shores of this terrible city. This feeling added to the final description given of Shanghai, makes the ending of the book powerful. Ballard known not to include any feeling into his work, ends his story with an impact on the reader, they are aware that Jim feels a sense of sadness and possible hatred to the city that he once thought was a great place to be.This novel is a first hand description of a war experience, and is therefore considered by many as a masterpiece. This novel leaves nothing to the imagination, everything is described in great detail, and in a way that paints a picture in the readers mind. This effective use of detached unemotional memories makes the descriptions powerful and creates emotions within the reader.This novel is considered by the Guardian as above all, a book of triumph and truthfulness of tone. Ballards rich metaphoric prose and his emphasis on psychological and techn ological themes make him a somewhat unique and impressive figure in contemporary literature. Ballards work although considered by many as somewhat grotesque, is thoroughly enjoyed by many today as a great novel, I would agree with this, it is interesting to read, and every word and description grips the readers attention. J.G. Ballards texts Essay Example J.G. Ballards texts Essay Empire of the Sun is a novel that takes the reader to the pre and post World War 11, and the repercussions of the detonation of the atom bomb over Hiroshima and Nagasaki, through the eyes of a very young British boy trapped in a war where there are no winners.The novel is a first hand description of most of the experiences of the author J.G. Ballard who was interned there from 1942 to 1945 in the same prison camps mentioned in the book. It is a profound and moving account of what it was like to be a boy in Japanese occupied Shanghai at wartime.J.G. Ballards texts have a great deal in common with each other. The Guardian said he is a writer who can be relied upon. He rarely writes much below his best, and if you develop a taste for his preoccupations you will find it satisfied by any of his earlier four books. Clearly this opinion gives the reader the impression that the novel is regarded as impressive and should be enjoyed by the reader. The Guardian went as far to say, indeed, it could be said that if there is still room for a masterpiece about the Second World War, then this is it. Like other masterpieces it gains its initial effect in standing at a slightly oblique and unexpected angle to its subject matter.Ballards heightened sensitivity to violence, as well as the corollary themes of isolation and social chaos, which permeate much of his work, may well have its roots in his childhood in wartime China. Ballards rich metaphoric prose and his emphasis on psychological and technological themes make him a somewhat unique and impressive figure in contemporary literature.Due to the theme being war, the reader can expect the language to be predominately harsh and somewhat vile, this use of language reflects the feelings people have towards war, and the feelings the characters would have felt towards the war. The text can be considered as somewhat surreal writing, that beguiles the reader with its gentleness, yet forces the reader to confront many atrocious episo des concerning the sick, the dying and the dead. The fact that the reader sees them from a childs perspective makes the descriptions even viler and explicitly shocking. His explicit use of language, and his crude descriptions of the events that occur, lead me to the conclusion that Ballard is unemotionally detached from this story, the events are his memories, yet he doesnt appear to put any feeling into the characters, this is especially the case within Jim. There are several occasions, where Jim witnesses brutal behaviour, yet no emotions of remorse or feelings of pity are apparent.Ballard conveys a sense of place, through his descriptions of the different nationalities that are present within the novel. The protagonist British characters are described as stoical throughout the war. The descriptions given presented of the Chinese give the setting of Shanghai. They are constantly described as insignificant people who only survive from the money that the British inject into the coun try. The Japanese, the nation whom instigated the war are seen as the people that give some of the characters hope. This is the case especially for Jim. Their bravery and stoicism impress him. The descriptions given of the Japanese convey a sense of atmosphere. The actions they take create the feelings of many of the characters.The American and Japanese planes are for Jim a symbolism of hope and freedom. Although he idolises the Japanese kamikaze pilots, the sites of the American planes symbolise and signify the end of the war.The novel begins prior to the attack on Pearl Harbour. The significance of the reader recognising this event is clear, as there are many references to the way in which this attack is publicised. To Jims dismay, even the Dean of Shanghai Cathedral had equipped himself with an antique projector. This shows the reader that war was a part of life for the people of Shanghai. This point is emphasised by the opening lines of the novel, Wars came early to Shanghai, ov ertaking each other like the tides that raced up the Yangtze. The dropping of the atom bomb is clearly another significant, event that the reader is supposed to recognise. The descriptions of the event given is complex and in thorough detail. But a flash of light filled the Stadium, flaring over the stands as if an immense American bomb had exploded somewhere to the northeast of Shanghai. Jim smiled at the Japanese, wishing that he could tell him that the light was a premonition of his death, the sight of his small soul joining the larger soul of the dying world. To Jim, the event of the atom bomb was symbolic for the death that was coming to him, and the death that had already reached many, his delirium had reached the stage that disallowed him to realise that the light he was seeing was literally a bomb sent from the Americans.Although Jim is a British boy of the wartime, he has distanced himself from the reality of the war. War as seen through the eyes of a child is an exhilarati ng and mysterious experience that rarely can be related to reality. The childlike disbelief that war will actually occur is evident many times throughout the novel, Sometimes the Pathe newsreels from England gave him the impression that, despite their unbroken series of defeats; the British people were thoroughly enjoying the war. It is clear that war to the British at this stage of the novel was considered a form of entertainment. The fact that whilst Jim was watching the newsreels, all he could think about was going to Dr. Lockwoods party, clearly shows the distance Jim has to the war.Shanghai during the time the novel was set, was inhabited by British, American and French people. These people were the upper class society of China. They were mainly there for their large firms that operated internationally. China was a colony of the British Empire, something, which greatly tormented the Japanese people as they felt they should be the owner of China. This great amount of upper class people had taken over China, and the local inhabitants had become almost inhuman and insignificant. This fact is clear throughout the novel. The opening paragraph demonstrates this sheer insignificance of this nationality of people. Wars came early to Shanghai, overtaking each other like the tides that raced up the Yangtze and returned to this gaudy city all the coffins cast adrift from the funeral piers of the Chinese Bund. The poverty of the Chinese is demonstrated here, the reader is aware that the Chinese cannot even afford to bury their dead. This description is symbolic for the majority of the Chinese race. Their bodies drift away in the wooden coffins, yet are always brought back by the tide, it is almost as if for the Chinese, there is no escape from this land that submises them so greatly. The imagery of the floating corpses introduces the theme of death and survival that pervades the novel.Jims attitude to the Chinese is demonstrated by one simple thing that he says, Ama h, dont touch it! Ill kill you! Clearly Jim has no respect for his Chinese slave, he assumes that he has enough power over her to order her death. The beggar outside Jims house demonstrates the social difference between the Chinese and Western European classes. Usually his mother would caution Yang to avoid the old beggar who lay at the end of the drive. But as Yang swung the heavy car through the gates, barely pausing before he accelerated along Amherst Avenue, Jim saw that the front wheel had crushed the mans foot. Even though the reader is aware that Jim has seen this happen to the old beggar, he doesnt appear to show any remorse or guilt towards the man, this lack of feelings is shown again when Jim witnesses the beheadings. The description given of the beheading is in great detail, but Jim doesnt demonstrate that he has any emotions about this public inhumane act. Usually Jim would have paused to observe the crowd, Jim watched the coolies and the pheasant women staring at the h eadless bodies. Jim is observing the situation in a manner that suggests to the reader that he is used to this sort of behaviour. This fact supports the stereotype that Ballard has as a detached and unemotional writer. Jims lack of emotion would appear almost abnormal to a reader, as a child would be usually upset and more respectful towards the dead, regardless of their nationality. Jims detachment from reality is once again demonstrated.Dr. Lockwoods party shows a strong contrast between the predominant nationalities within the novel. The British are indulging in extravagant parties, as a war is occurring. The party is full of British people dressed in bright exotic outfits, the entertainment consists of Cantonese acrobats climbing their comical ladders and pretending to disappear into the sky. The party is nothing short of what would be expected from the rich Westerners, but readers may regard it as somewhat insensitive to the war situation. The Chinese that are there are quietly removing a dead oriole from the deep end of the now drained swimming-pool. There are twenty Chinese women, dressed in black tunics and trousers, each on a miniature stool. They are sat shoulder-to-shoulder, weeding knives flashing at the grass, while keeping up an unstoppable chatter. Ironically, although the war is occurring, the Chinese people are still working as servants for the British; this shows the lack of importance of the Chinese in comparison to the British who are spending their time at a lavish party.It is during the party that Jims admiration of Japanese pilots first emerges. Whilst exploring an abandoned plane, Jim has his first encounter with the Japanese soldiers. He was about to jump from the blockhouse, when he noticed that a face was looking up at him from the trench. A fully armed Japanese soldier squatted by the broken earth wall, his rifle, webbing and ground sheet laid out beside him as if ready for inspection. An entire company of Japanese infantry was res ting in this old battlefield, as if re-equipping itself from the dead of an earlier war, ghosts of their former comrades risen from the grave and issued with fresh uniforms and rations. The Japanese appear to be like predators from this description, it is as if they are lying in wait for there pray, this is something that later in the novel Jim begins to admire. The descriptions given of the three nationalities, is a great contrast to what their lives are like within Lunghua Camp. There is almost a role reversal between the British and Chinese, and between the British and the Japanese.The Japanese, the instigators of the war, ironically are greatly admired by Jim, a boy from a nationality who would be considered one of their vast amount of enemies. This admiration comes in many forms throughout this novel. Jim was impressed by their bravery and stoicism, and their sadness which struck a curious chord with him, who was never sad. Although Jim deeply admired the Japanese, his admirati on for them grew stronger due to them having the things he didnt. Food the main attributer to life, was something that Jim lacked, and the Japanese had As they smoked their cigarettes the Japanese smiled to themselves, watching Jim devour the shreds of fatty rice. The Japanese soldier who had taken pity on Jim, recognising that this small boy was starving, began to laugh good-naturedly, and pulled the rubber plug from his metal water-bottle. Food is power within this period of time, it is therefore as if the Japanese are in control of all, they control Jim, but fortunately for him, they do not abuse this power. Due to the kindness of the Japanese soldiers, Jims admiration for them has grown. They have helped his survival. This relationship that Jim has with the Japanese occurs many times within the novel.Private Kimura is example of Jim bonding with a Japanese soldier. Private Kimuras kindness to Jim is clear within the form of many events that occur within the time that they know e ach other. Private Kimura had grown almost as much as Jim in his years at the camp. Jims admiration for the Japanese soldier had been noticed and this admiration was fed by Private Kimura often inviting Jim to the bungalow he shared with three other guards and allowed him to wear his kendo armour. This kindness to Jim is later contrasted by the brutal beating of the Chinese Coolie. Like many of Jims previously detailed and dispassionate descriptions of brutal behaviour, the coolies beating isnt described any differently. Private Kimura walked behind the rickshaw and kicked the wooden seat, hurling the vehicle against the coolies legs, raising their staves, they each struck him a blow on the head, then strolled away as if deep in thought. Jim whilst watching this horrid event appeared disconcerned he is described to be wondering whether to read an article about Winston Churchill. All of the British internees of the camp are described to be unconcerned and only sit and observe the eve nt, this demonstrates the differences of nationality status, although the Chinese and the British are both prisoners of war, under the Japanese authority, the Chinese are not given the right to be in a camp and to be looked after, even during times of war, they are inferior to the British and the Americans. The fact that no British internee would help the Chinese coolie shows their sheer unimportance within the eyes of the British. Jims upbringing is questionable here. Is he so disconcerned about the brutal event, as he has been hardened by war, or is he so disconcerned due to him being used to this kind of behaviour bestowed upon the Chinese. The most likely answer would be that he is used to this insignificance for Human life regardless of nationality.The Americans role within the novel is to bring hope. Jim is the predominant character that symbolises this hope. The first American characters to be introduced demonstrate this. Basie and Frank, appear to be using the war as a way t o make money, they appear to be disconcerned for their own safety. Frank says that Basie wants to stay in Shanghai now the Japs are here. He thinks we can make a pile of money once we get to the camps. Dr Ransome, someone whom isnt particularly fond of Basie tells Jim that its a good thing that youre friends with Basie. Hes a survivor, though survivors can be dangerous.Many internees consider the American blocks within the camp as the place to be, the place where everything is happening. Jim liked the Americans and approved of them in every way. Whenever he entered this enclave of irony and good humour his spirits rose. There they lay on their bunks and entertained a steady stream of adolescent girls, single British women and even a few wives drawn to them for reasons not very different from Jims. The Americans were clearly the idealised nationality within the camp that held a presence that made them appear to not have any cares in the world, this presence kept many people alive. Th e Americans symbolised hope, this hope for Jim, came within the shape of the American warplanes. Fearsome American planes emerged like pieces of the sun. Jim reflected that the prisoners ought to celebrate, throw their clogs in the air, seize the air raid siren and play it back at the incoming American planes. Although for the prisoners, this should have been a great moment, it wasnt. The repercussions of the war had taken its toll on many of the prisoners, and many like Jim were almost scared to leave the camp, for fear of what life without routine and rules would be like again.The British internees at Lunghua Camp, unlike the Americans refuse to take in the facts that they are prisoners of war, this is evident by due to the fact that they have named parts of the camp after British roads and places. The Vincents, the people whom Jim shared a room with, completely disregarded Jim, even though nationality wise he was one of there own. Mrs Vincent is described as treating Jim like her Number Two Coolie, and he was well aware that he tolerated this for reasons he barely understood. Ironically, the British who treat all Chinese with disrespect are treating Jim one of their own, in the same manner. The fact that Jim is only a child makes the situation even more callus. Mrs Vincent a woman who is already a mother, is pushing away a young boy, and not giving him any help what so ever. The curtain that the Vincents have up within the room is a clear indicator to Jim and to the audience that the Vincents do not want any part in Jims life. They do want to face the realities of war and work together, they want to remain a happy, private family.The British before the war, were described as being lavish and exotic people, they are now within the camp, shown to be the people who are the more feeble race. They are constantly described to be sat in their own excrement, something, which by many is considered to be degrading, and generally an embarrassing situation. The old wom en lay in the pools of urine at their husbands feet. The English brothers huddled against Basie while Mrs Hug leaned on her fathers knees. This description is a complete contrast to the previous way in which the British people were described, this description is somewhat similar to the constant way in which the Chinese people are thought of and said to be like.Mr Maxted and Dr Ransome two of the central British characters within the novel are separated from the typical British people. They are both characters that give the other internees hope. They both take on roles of responsibility within the camp. Dr Ransome is not only a doctor for the people, along with Basie; he is Jims tutor. He therefore provides medical help for internees and mental stimulation for Jim. He could therefore be considered as a person of power within the camp, he has to some extent the power to maintain peoples health, and with regards to Jim, he has the power of knowledge.Mr Maxted, towards the beginning of the novel, is described as a very easygoing man, Jim admired Mr Maxted, an architect turned entrepreneur who had designed the Metropole Theatre and numerous Shanghai nightclubs. Jim often tried to imitate his raffish manner, but soon found that being so relaxed was exhausting work, Mr Maxted was the perfect type of Englishman who had adapted himself to Shanghai. Mr Maxted is clearly an easygoing person, whom is adaptable to many situations. This attribute would help any person survive within the camp circumstances. Mr Maxted on many occasions assists Jim with getting food, making sure he is okay, tasks that an almost father figure would do. Mr Maxted can therefore be considered as a father figure to Jim that remains calm and collected, for the benefit of Jim and many others. Even with the foreboding events that lead to the death of Mr Maxted, he remains calm and gives Jim hope, in every situation possible. Good lad, Jamie you hang on. Mr Maxted is remaining hopeful for the sake of this young boy, whom without people to keep him occupied and hopeful, would more than likely be drawing near to his end.Jim although a British born character, adopts and idolises many other nationality traits. Jims dream is to become a Japanese pilot; this is ironic, as it is the Japanese who are keeping the British people within confinement. On numerous occasions, Jim tells the internees of Lunghua Camp, that he wishes to be a Japanese Kamikaze pilot, and how he admires their bravery and stoicism. Jims cultural upbringing and multicultural town, make him aware of cultural traits and differences between people from different nationalities. As he is only a young boy, Jim would be more inclined to adopt some of these multicultural traits and admire them; therefore his admiration for the Japanese isnt unexpected.Jims friendship with the young Japanese pilot makes the reader look upon the Japanese in a not so harsh light. The Japanese raised his wooden stake. Like a sleeper waking from a dream, he hurled it into the nettles. As Jim flinched, he reached into the waist-pocket of his flight overalls and drew out a small mango.Jim took the yellow fruit from the pilots calloused hand. The mango was still warm from his body. This act of kindness shown from the young Japanese pilot, shows the reader that the Japanese are not all cruel people, although they instigated this particular war, they are at war as well, things concerning food etc, are a problem for them to, and the fact that he has given Jim this exotic piece of fruit demonstrates the Japaneses kindness.The novels ends on a somewhat sombre note, although Shanghai has returned to the normal bustling city that it used to be, Jim has grown up and begun to notice the horrors of it, he has in many ways become aware of the horrors that the Chinese suffer from day to day. Jims confinement within the war has opened up his mind to what is right and wrong in respect to the way in which people are treated. When he witnesse s the British and American sailors urinating down the steps, this new awareness becomes evident. Fifty feet below them, the Chinese watched without comment as the arcs of urine formed a foaming stream that ran down the street. When it reached the pavement the Chinese stepped back, their faces expressionless. Jim glanced at the people around him, the clerks and coolies and peasant women, well aware of what they were thinking. One day China would punish the rest of the world, and take a frightening revenge. Jims time within the camp has made him realise that the Chinese are actually alive, their existence has actually become noticeable to Jim, and he now disagrees with the cruel treatment that he once issued onto them.The final paragraph of the novel is very similar to the beginning paragraph, except the mood is greatly different. The description unlike many in the book appears to have a sense of sadness and feeling to it. Previously when the Chinese coffins were described, a brief de scription was just given, whereas now, the description ends driven once again to the shores of this terrible city. This feeling added to the final description given of Shanghai, makes the ending of the book powerful. Ballard known not to include any feeling into his work, ends his story with an impact on the reader, they are aware that Jim feels a sense of sadness and possible hatred to the city that he once thought was a great place to be.This novel is a first hand description of a war experience, and is therefore considered by many as a masterpiece. This novel leaves nothing to the imagination, everything is described in great detail, and in a way that paints a picture in the readers mind. This effective use of detached unemotional memories makes the descriptions powerful and creates emotions within the reader.This novel is considered by the Guardian as above all, a book of triumph and truthfulness of tone. Ballards rich metaphoric prose and his emphasis on psychological and techn ological themes make him a somewhat unique and impressive figure in contemporary literature. Ballards work although considered by many as somewhat grotesque, is thoroughly enjoyed by many today as a great novel, I would agree with this, it is interesting to read, and every word and description grips the readers attention.

great gatsby essays

great gatsby essays The characters in The Great Gatsby illustrate that, by the 1920s, the American Dream is deteriorating. Through symbolism, F. Scott Fitzgerald shows that the lost generation brought with it the deterioration of the American Dream. Immigrants from all over the world, at the beginning of the twentieth century, came to America with the hopes of establishing new lives different from the way they lived in Europe and other parts of the world. America was that land where anything was possible. People who lived in poverty, without any way of making their lives better, could come to America and start over. Dreams could come true in America. Well-paying jobs and nice houses, complete with white picket fences, were ideals that exemplified the American Dream. Gatsbys vision is like the American Dream itself, the illusion that youth and beauty can be forever recaptured if only one can make enough money. He is the symbol for the whole American experience. Gatsby, who is in love with Daisy thinks that by turning materialistic, he can win her over. He thinks that money alone will be enough to fulfill an ideal, which shows what the American Dream had come to mean to people in the 1920s. Daisy is a depiction of the American woman of her class. She is beautiful and charming but yet very hollow. Her apparent emotion is only the illusion of love, just as her voice gives only the fallacy of sincerity; behind it is a self-satisfied smirk. Jay Gatsby never really accepted or was content with his parents who were shiftless and unsuccessful farm people(Fitzgerald 104). At seventeen years old, Gatsby changed his name from James Gatz to Jay Gatsby, and to this conception he was faithful to the end(104). In this way, Gatsby erases his past and his parentage in a very superficial manner. The name change serves as a transition for Gatsby in the same way immigrants had naive innocence and idealistic ho...

The Pioneers Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

The Pioneers - Term Paper Example This paper is a critical analysis of contributions of Isaac Newton and Aristotle, some of the most distinguished scientific pioneers in the history of humanity. Isaac Newton Sir Isaac Newton, a distinguished English philosopher is considered as the most creative and prominent scientific theorist of all times. His most remarkable contribution in mathematical and scientific fields includes the discovery of infinitesimal calculus and pioneering theories in the study of light and color. Moreover, Isaac Newton revolutionalized physical science by the discovery of the three laws of motion and the law of gravitational pull (Westfall, 1971). His contribution in science and mathematics resulted to development of classical mechanics, a very influential scientific discipline. Though Isaac Newton is considered to be one of the most original thinkers, he collaborated the works and ideas of other scientists in the 17 century and before such as Kepler, Galileo, Descartes and Copernicus among others . Isaac Newton asserted this fact by acknowledging in one of his most famous quote that if he had seen further, it was by standing on the shoulders of giants (Alexandre, 1965). He distinguished himself as a brilliant physicist, astronomer, mathematician, alchemist and as a natural philosopher. According to Westfall (1971), Isaac Newton was born in January 4, 1643 to Hannah Ayscough and Isaac Newton. His actual place of birth was at Woolsthorpe, a rural town in Lincolnshire County. During his birth, the Gregorian calendar was not used in England then and hence his birth date was recorded using the Julian calendar as 25 December 1642. The Gregorian calendar, which is the modern style, was adopted in 1752 in England and it was ten days ahead of the Julian style (Westfall, 1971). Isaac Newton was born prematurely and his father had died three months prior to his birth. Later, his mother Hannah remarried when the boy was just three years old, an incident that most Newtonian biographers c onsider as traumatic to his childhood and adulthood. Soon after his mother remarried, Isaac Newton was left under the care of his maternal grandmother Margery Asycough (Westfall, 1971). Isaac Newton was separated from his mother until 1653, when she returned to her motherland after the death of her second husband. He enrolled at King’s school after refusing her mothers attempt of dropping him out of school to train him become a farmer. Isaac Newton’s early academic life was lackluster, but he later, he discovered his abilities after joining Cambridge University from Woolsthorpe in 1661 (Hall, 1980). Cambridge University is a renowned institution of higher learning but at the time of Isaac Newton admission, the centre had not yet grasped emerging scientific changes in its curriculum (Hall, 1980). In this regard, Ackrill (1981) noted that the curriculum was based on ancient works of Aristotle and other classical authors. In this respect, most biographers affirm that Isaa c Newton’s undergraduate studies involved a lot of Aristotle, resulting to his undistinguishable academic performance. However during this time, Isaac Newton concentrated and mustered the works of

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Criminal Justice - Essay Example In the United States, the criminal justice provides justice to the people of this country. This is because the law is subjected equally to all people. The law is supreme, and people are required to exercise their rights in accordance with the law. The impartiality of the system makes it acceptable to the people of the United States. The justice system plays an imperative role in the American society (Barkan and Bryjak 9). However, just like many systems across the globe, the United States legal system has its strengths as well as weaknesses. This implies that, although the system offers justice to the public, there exist some faults that should be addressed. Justice is best served by the system in that the Supreme Court is independent from other arms of the government. For instance, the president may hold a particular opinion or even the Congress, but the interpretation of issues concerning the Constitution is left to the Supreme Court. The power given to this court ensures that justice is best served to the people of the United States without prejudices from other areas such as political issues (Barkan and Bryjak 11). Nevertheless, the system fails to provide justice in some cases. Economic biasness, racial bias, and over taxation are some of the weaknesses associated with the justice system. For instance, there are a number of life sentences that have been made by the court of law. However, only few are implemented. This raises concerns about how the selection is done. These issues taint the image of the justice

Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4

Management - Essay Example These problems are usually referred to as public information resource management or sometimes as knowledge management. According to Henry (2011, p. 155), this is â€Å"the collection, administration, and use of social and organizational data, including the development of policies and procedures for information resources and systems, for the purpose of forming and delivering public policy.† Public managers play a key role in the management of public information resources in that they assure well and operational information systems that provide critical knowledge that is used in developing strategies that ensure organizational success (Henry, 2011, p. 155). The management of resources entails the collection, administration, and the use of social and organizational data. This includes the development of policies and procedures for information resources and systems, for the purpose of forming and delivering public policy (Henry, 2011, p. 155). Henry (2011, p. 157) asserts that the use of information technology has been embraced by public bodies in information management in that it possesses a higher rate of success. This is partly due to the fact that it is more inclusive as it encourages participation of the persons affected by the particular information that is to be managed (Henry, 2011, p. 158). For successful public knowledge management, ... Thirdly, the organizational process should be the focus in the introduction and management of information resources (Henry, 2011, p. 163). Fourthly, Henry (2011, p. 164) asserts that there is need to develop strong skills among information resource managers to foster strong relationship between the managers and the rest of the organization and lastly, public policy decision making should always ensure that there is minimal risk in the management of information. However, Henry (2011, p. 164) argues that public information resource management faces numerous challenges. One challenge is the dilemma of sharing of private information via public information agencies. To cure this challenge, Henry (2011, p. 165) affirms that the government of the United States has enacted several legislations that protect individual citizens in regards the management of information. An example of such legislation is The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 that created the Privacy and Ci vil Liberties Oversight Board which protects a citizen’s financial and other personal records from undue scrutiny by federal authorities or agencies (Henry, 2011, p. 166). Governments and other public agencies also fear what people may use with the information they gather. This is due to the risks associated with information technology such as cybercrime in the form of hacking, harrowing and humiliation (Henry, 2011, p. 167). To counteract this, the government and public agencies insist on certain standards in information management security. The measures include ensuring that there is compliance with standards, policies and the law, ensuring of the effectiveness of information security controls and the overall impact of the

Britannia Industries Limited Is One Leading Bakers Marketing Essay

Britannia Industries Limited Is One Leading Bakers Marketing Essay Britannia Industries Limited is one of the leading players in the bakery segment in India. Its product portfolio includes various types of biscuits, breads and cakes. The company primarily operates in India. It is headquartered in Kolkata, India and employed about 2,358 people as on March 2008. The company recorded revenues of INR 26,177 million during the fiscal year ended March 2008, an increase of 13% over 2007. Top line of Britannia was driven by price increases by way of reduction in pack sizes and extension of excise exemption to biscuits with maximum retail price (MRP) below INR 100 per kilogram from INR 50 per kilogram earlier. The operating profit of the company was INR 2,723 million during fiscal year 2008, an increase of 80% compared with 2007. The PAT was INR 1,910 million in fiscal year 2008, an increase of 77.5% compared with 2007. BUSINESS DESCRIPTION Britannia Industries Limited (Britannia) is engaged in producing and distributing bakery products including a variety of biscuits, breads, rusks, and cakes. The Wadia group of India along with Groupe Danone of France, are equal shareholders in ABIL, the UK which is a major shareholder in Britannia. The company operates through three broad product categories: biscuit and high protein food, bread and rusk, and cake. The biscuit products are marketed under the following brands: Tiger, Good Day, 50 50, Marie Gold, Treat, Milk Bikis, Nutri Choice, Time Pass, Pure Magic, Little Hearts, Nice Time, Vita Marie Gold and Greetings. Bread products are sold under the Premium Bakes, white sandwich bread brand. Cake products are sold under the Premium Bakes, Cakes and Rusks brands. The company also offers Cup Cakes in its cakes category. Britannias dairy operations are conducted through its subsidiary, Britannia New Zealand Foods Company Private Limited (BNZF). BNZF is a joint venture between Britannia and Fonterra Co-operative Group of New Zealand. The company exports its products to the US, Ghana, Seychelles, Singapore, Oman, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. HISTORY Britannia was established with an initial investment of INR295 in Kolkata in 1892. The operations of the company were mechanized with the advent of electricity in 1910. The company started using gas ovens in 1921. Britannia Biscuit Company took over biscuit distribution from Parrys in 1975. In 1978 the company became a publicly listed company. In the following year, the company was renamed as Britannia Industries Limited (Britannia). The companys executive office was relocated to Bangalore in 1989. In 1993 Wadia group acquired stake in ABIL, UK and became an equal partner with Groupe Danone in Britannia. Britannia introduced its new corporate identity Eat Healthy, Think Better; and launched Tiger Cashew Badam and Cheeker brands of biscuits in 1997. In 1998, the company introduced Milk Bikis and Nutri Choice brands; and Etnic Snacking. In 1999, the company issued bonus shares in the ratio of 1:2. During the same year, the company also introduced cheeselets. The company introduced biscuit brands GD Choco, Time Pass and Vita Marie Gold in 2000; Rourbon Pocket Packs, Maska Chaska and Vita Marie Gold in 2001. Britannia introduced many brands of biscuits in 2002 which include Time Pass Classic Salted, Jim Jam Pocket Packs, Chai Biskoot, Tiger Cream, GD Ginger Nut and Pure Magic. The company launched a joint venture with Fonterra, a dairy company; and started Britannia New Zealand Foods in 2002. The company launched, Treat Duet, a biscuit brand in 2003. In the following year, Britannias Good Day biscuit added Choconut, a new variety to its range of biscuits. The rebirth of Tiger biscuit was seen in 2005, with the tag line Swasth Khao, Tiger Ban Jao. In the same year Britannia launched Greetings range of premium assorted gift packs; and Britannia 50-50 Pepper Chakkar. In the same year, the company started its new plant in Uttaranchal. In July 2006, Britannia acquired Cafe Coffee Days 50% stake in Daily Bread, a Bangalore-based high-end food re tailer. In March 2007, Britannia formed a joint venture with the Khimji Ramdas Group, one of the largest business conglomerates in the Middle East. Britannia and its associates acquired 70% beneficial stake in Dubai-based Strategic Foods International and Oman-based Al Sallan Food Industries Co SAOG. In January 2008, Britannia was asked by the Calcutta High Court to pay back the INR12 crore, which it withdrew from the companys pension fund. MAJOR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES Britannia Industries Limited (Britannia) is a producer and distributor of bakery and dairy products. It manufactures, distributes and sells a range of branded products including: List of products: Biscuits Bread Rusk Cakes Cheese Butter Milk List of selected brands: 50:50 Deluca Good Day Little Hearts Milk Bikis MarieGold Maska Chaska NutriChoice Pure Magic Treat Tiger REVENUE ANALYSIS Britannia recorded revenues of INR 26,177 million during the fiscal year ended March 2008, an increase of 13% over 2007. The company generates revenues through three business divisions: biscuits and high protein foods (89% of the total revenues during fiscal year 2008), bread and rusk (7.4%), and cake (2.9%). Revenue by division During the fiscal year 2007, the biscuits and high protein food division recorded revenues of INR 23,299 million, an increase of 11.4% over 2007. The bread and rusk division recorded revenues of INR 1,956 million in fiscal year 2008, an increase of 36.3% over 2007. The cake division recorded revenues of INR 769 million in fiscal year 2008, an increase of 23.2% over 2007. The others (including scrap sales) division recorded revenues of INR 144 million in fiscal year 2008, a decrease of 28% over 2007. SWOT ANALYSIS Britannia is a producer and distributor of bread, snacks and dairy products. The company has a portfolio of top selling food brands. Britannia produces and distributes premium brands such as 50:50, Good Day, Little Hearts, Milk Bikis, MarieGold, Maska Chaska, NutriChoice, Pure Magic, Treat, and Tiger. An extensive portfolio of global brands facilitates customer recall and enhances Britannias market penetration capabilities. However, an impending litigation disputing the trademark of Britannias biscuit brand Tiger, with Danone, could adversely impact the companys brand image and its international expansion plans. Strengths Weaknesses Strong brand name Launch of innovative products and brand extensions Growth in operating segments High dependence on Indian market Fluctuating cash from operations Opportunities Threats Inorganic growth Strategic alliances Growing demand for health and convenience products Litigations Inflationary dairy product prices Outbreak of animal diseases Strengths Strong brand name The company has a strong portfolio of top selling food brands. Britannia produces and distributes premium brands such as 50:50, Good Day, Little Hearts, Milk Bikis, MarieGold, Maska Chaska, NutriChoice, Pure Magic, Treat, and Tiger. Each of the companys six pillar brands (Good Day, Tiger, 50:50, Treat, Milk Bikis, and Marie Gold) generate sales in excess of INR1 billion. Further, the company is entering new product lines like snacking and health products and thus capturing a larger market share. In 2007, most of the companys brands secured double digit growth rate. Additionally, Britannia was ranked second among FMCG companies in the Business Worlds Most Respected Company Survey 2006. With a wide portfolio of brands and choice of product category, the company is able to differentiate itself in the market, nurture customer loyalty, and reduce its business risk. As a dairy product company, Britannia enjoys strong brand equity, and its extensive portfolio of global brands has helped it to expand its market presence and visibility. A strong brand portfolio not only facilitates customer recall but also enhances Britannias market penetration opportunities. Launch of innovative products and brand extensions The company has a strong orientation towards product innovation. In 2007, the company demonstrated its ability to innovate and extend its brands and products. Britannia launched many innovative products in 2007. Through an innovative product lineup, the company plans to strengthen and sharpen its brands and transform them from existing formats and conventional archetypes. In this context, the company launched cream and coconut varieties in its Tiger brand range. Further, the Chota Tiger, which is an extension of Tiger brand, draws on the kids snacking habit presenting biscuits as small, pop-able, snacks in a pouch pack. Similarly, the company also launched added Fruit Rollz under its Treat brand. Further, the company launched 50:50 Chutkule and NutriChoice Digestive and SugarOut. NutriChoice SugarOut is the first biscuit without added sugar, in the Indian market. Strong product innovation skills enable the company to stay ahead of the competition and create an edge in the market. Growth in operating segments Britannias operating segments has shown strong financial performance since 2005, which is evident from its revenue growth. Biscuit and high protein food segment revenue increased from INR14,926.9 million (approximately $330.8 million) in 2005 to INR20,910.8 million (approximately $463.4 million) in 2007, this representing compounded annual growth rate CAGR (2005-2007) of 18%. The bread and rusk segment also recorded increase in revenue from INR788.2 million (approximately $17.5 million) in 2005 to INR1,435.7 million (approximately $31.8 million) in 2007, this representing CAGR(2005-2007) growth of 35%. Further, the cake segment also recorded increase in revenue from INR355.7 million (approximately $7.9 million) in 2005 to INR624 million (approximately $13.8 million) in 2007, this representing CAGR(2005-2007) growth of 35%. Strong performance by the companys operating segment enhances its financial standing and strengthens its position against its competitors. Weaknesses High dependence on Indian market Though Britannia has made forays into other international markets, it is still dependent on the Indian market for a majority of its revenues. Though the company exports its products to many countries, the revenue contribution of regions other than India is too low to confer any significant geographical diversification benefit on the company. High dependence on India makes Britannia vulnerable to the market conditions in this region. Fluctuating cash from operations The company has not been able to generate consistent cash from its operations in recent times. The company has registered fluctuations in its cash from operations, registering a decline in every alternate year since 2004. Cash from operations decreased from INR1,961 million (approximately $43 million) in 2005 to INR649 million (approximately $14 million) in 2006. Again in 2007, it increased to INR871 million (approximately $19 million). Fluctuating cash from operation could upset the companys expansion plans. Opportunities Inorganic growth Britannia is aggressively pursuing inorganic growth model. In March 2007, Britannia concluded two acquisitions, including its first ever overseas partnership. In March 2007, Britannia formed a joint venture with the Khimji Ramdas Group, one of the largest business conglomerates in the Middle East. Britannia and its associates acquired 70% beneficial stake in Dubai-based Strategic Foods International LLC and Oman-based Al Sallan Food Industries Co SAOG. The two companies are major regional players in the biscuits and cookies segments in the Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) markets. Both the companies export to more than 40 countries across the globe including Africa, Australia and Japan, thereby giving Britannia access to many new markets. These two acquisitions are expected to allow Britannias portfolio to extend to those countries in which they have a presence. The joint venture could provide Britannia an opportunity to grow its international footprint by leveraging on the complementa ry strengths of the two partners. Strategic alliances Britannia entered into strategic alliance with Daily Bread Pvt. Ltd. (Daily Bread) to participate in premium bread and allied products market in India. In July 2006, Britannia acquired a strategic 50% stake in Daily Bread, a Bangalore-based company engaged in the manufacturing and retailing of premium breads, cakes, and ready-to-eat snacks. Daily Bread operates in both institutional and retail segments, and offers a wide range of international quality bakery products, including 50 varieties of specialty breads. Post-acquisition, Britannia holds the brand Deluca in India. Daily Breads business model includes a chain of own and franchised retail outlets, and catering to institutional customers. Daily Bread operates seven outlets in Bangalore and since its acquisition by Britannia; two large outlets have been added. Britannia is keen to scale up the outlet chain to 30-40 cities beginning Fiscal 2008. This acquisition marks Britannias entry in the high-end, freshly baked gourmet food. Th is alliance will help Britannia to scale up the bakery business in select markets with a range of gourmet products sold under its brand names. Growing demand for health and convenience products Consumers worldwide have become more health conscious in recent years. Increasing number of consumers are opting for natural, fat-free and healthy food products. Food items containing trans-fat are losing market share as they are linked to cardiovascular diseases. The primary drivers for this trend are changing lifestyles, late marriages, increase in single-parent households, increase in number of homes with two working parents, and increased working hours. Consumer expenditure on away-from-home dining is rising. According to the US Economic Research Service, spending on food-away-from-home is expected to increase by almost 10% per capita until 2025. The trend towards low fat, low sugar and low carbohydrate foods and drinks continues to drive the market. Britannia offers a range of low-fat and sugar free products. With a strong emphasis on healthy foods, the company is likely to benefit from the increasing health food market. The global nutritional market exhibited strong growth in 2 006, estimated at E127 billion ($159 billion), with half of this represented by the US market. The company is well positioned to exploit its focus on health and convenience platform to drive its future growth. Threats Litigations Britannia and Groupe Danone (Danone), a French dairy and beverages giant, are engaged in intellectual property rights battle, since many years. Wadia group and Danone have an equal stake in Associated Biscuits International Holdings (ABIH), which is a major shareholder in Britannia. Both the companies are disputing over the trademark of Britannias biscuit brand, Tiger. Britannia has accused Danone of registering the Tiger Trademark globally without its consent. Danone has already registered Tiger brand in nearly 35 countries and has applied for registration of the Tiger trademark in over 70 countries. In 2006, Britannia sued Danone in a Singapore court, seeking a speedy redressal of the Tiger brand issue. Danone has already registered Tiger trademark in Singapore, which will expire in November 2009. Britannia submitted its trademark application for Tiger in Singapore only in April 2007, which is still pending. An arbitration case between the two parties is also pending at the Bombay High Court. This long impending litigation (with Danone) could adversely impact Britannias brand equity and its international expansion plans. Inflationary dairy product prices Britannia, being a diary company, is exposed to general business risks faced by the global dairy market. Britannia is vulnerable to price fluctuations in the world market for raw materials such as flour, soya, maize and grain. In 2007, the industry witnessed an inordinate and simultaneous increase of approximately 20% 25% in the market prices of all key commodities like flour, refined palm oil, skimmed milk powder, etc. The companys top line growth of 28.4% was eroded by inflation in input costs, resulting in a gross margin decline of 6.7%.The global dairy market is marked by sharp fluctuations in the price of dairy products. Furthermore, sales prices are fixed with customers for relatively long periods in a number of markets, whereas the purchase prices of milk are subject to short-term fluctuations. In order to limit these risks, Britannia should try to minimize its operating costs by efficiently utilizing existing resources. Further increase in input cost could dampen the company s gross margin, which could result in declining top-line growth. Outbreak of animal diseases Britannia, as a diary product company, is dependent on constant supply and quality of the raw materials like milk. Any outbreak of animal diseases (especially Foot and Mouth Disease caused by a virus which is one of the most contagious and feared diseases), can cause heavy loss in susceptible cloven-hoofed animals world over. Britannia, which markets all dairy-based products like butter, cheese, and biscuits to different countries, may get affected by milk supplies and the production and sale of dairy products in case of diseases outbreak thus affecting its revenues. TOP COMPETITORS The following companies are the major competitors of Britannia Industries Ltd. Nestle India Ltd ITC Corporation Ltd. Parle Products Pvt. Ltd.