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Wednesday, December 25, 2019

“The American Dream has become a death sentence of...

â€Å"The American Dream has become a death sentence of drudgery, consumerism, and fatalism: a garage sale where the best of the human spirit is bartered away for comfort, obedience and trinkets. Its unequivocally absurd.† –Zoltan Istvan. In both This Side of Paradise and This Beautiful and Damned, F. Scott Fitzgerald comments on the corruption of the American Dream. Throughout the beautiful text and prose of his first and second novels, respectively, Fitzgerald mocks the ghastly nightmare the American ‘Dream’ has become. The former follows the story of the downfall of a wealthy, promising young man struggling to gain romantic success, who enlists in the army along the way, to a poverty-stricken alcoholic struggling to now gain romantic and†¦show more content†¦The whole idea of rags to riches embodied the work ethic of the 1920s and previous decades as the idyllic Golden Age of flappers and mobsters thrived. However, the ideology was flawed in itself that people were striving for money and not happiness. The average American assumed that happiness was money and were therefore obsessed with the culture of the attaining money. While this was also mostly a time of attempted moral reinvigoration in the older generations, baring the Prohibition and all, many would do whatever they could to get what they wanted, which in most cases was money to buy ‘nice’ things. Everyone’s goal was to become extravagantly wealthy or to die trying. The saddest part of it all is many went to the grave unable to fulfill their actually quite impossible dream. Fitzgerald presents these stories in the format of citizens who are already wealthy and actually living the American Dream so as to make it more glamorous than having seen the grueling work done by some close relative. This almost further empowers the culture of materialism as it sets the scene, only to deplore it as the books go on. These people start out pampered and are presumed to become even more wealthy and powerful but spiral downward as they fail to find happiness in their lavish lifestyles. In This Side of Paradise, this is exactly the case. In one aspect, Amory Blaine is alreadyShow MoreRelatedUgly Truth Of The American Dream In The Great Gatsby Essay863 Words   |  4 PagesTruth of the American Dream in The Great Gatsby â€Å"The American Dream has become a death sentence of drudgery, consumerism, and fatalism: a garage sale where the best of the human spirit is bartered away for comfort, obedience and trinkets. Its unequivocally absurd.† -Zoltan Istvan. The American dream was an ideal held by many hopeful and ignorant people who tried to see the best in the world. But like everything else, a lie doesn’t last forever. Hope eventually dies and the world becomes colder. In

Monday, December 16, 2019

Relational and Object-oriented Database Management...

Relational and Object-oriented Database Management Systems A database is a â€Å"shared collection of logically related data designed to meet the information needs of multiple users in an organization† (Hoffer 709). Databases contain data records or files, such as sales transactions, product catalogs and inventories, and customer profiles. Databases allows multiple users in an organization to easily access, manage, store, and update data when needed. A database management system is software designed to assist in maintaining and utilization large collections of data, and the need for such systems and their use. The first general-purpose database management system (DBMS) was designed by Charles Bachman who worked for General Electric†¦show more content†¦Fifth, DBMS can schedule concurrent access to the data, where when more than one user is accessing the data; users are protected from the possibility of system failures. Sixth, DBMS can reduce application development time since DBMS supports many important functions common to the many applications (Ramakrishnan 8-9). There are some disadvantages to using a DBMS that must be taken into consideration however. For example, a DBMS is complex software best used with certain kinds of workloads. This relates to its performance not being adequate for certain specialized applications. Second, another application may have to manipulate entered data in order to manage. This can create a problem if the second application does not support the designed query language. Developers of DBMS software are generally diverse in numbers and chosen fields. IBM and Oracle are two popular ventures for DBMS developers. Each venture has its own Database Administrator that manages DBMS for that place of business. The Database Administrator often designs schemas, provides security, and restores the system if a failure occurs. There is also a Database Systems Manager who monitors the running of the system, and managing users requests. There are three common types of databases prevalent in the business arena: Relational, Object-Oriented, and Object-Relational. Relational Database Management System Edgar F. Codd at IBM invented relational databaseShow MoreRelatedTradeoffs Between Relational and Object-Oriented Database Management Systems1149 Words   |  5 Pagesthe tradeoffs between relational and object-oriented database management systems 1) Stating Position The object oriented DBMS is superior to the relational database on some specific counts, primarily because it can satisfy the complex demands of the market today better than the any other. Secondly while the relational data base stores data as tables, the object model stores data as objects and creates associations. This can create a multiple set of attributes for each object such that the data baseRead MoreInformation Storage And Management System1373 Words   |  6 Pagestechnology, information storage and management have been vital of importance. Information effectiveness and efficiency are determined by how well data is organised and processed. The term ‘data’ have been widely employed in different human activities, including science, business, education, law and the like. Here, data is a means for representation of facts, concepts, and instructions in order to communicate (Sumathi Esakkirajan 2007). Nevertheless, if data management is ineffective, and relevant inf ormationRead MoreElectronic Healthcare Information Systems Analysis1348 Words   |  6 PagesDatabases, Electronic Healthcare Information Systems, Data Sets and Data Standards Patient data is crucial to healthcare practice. Having the ability to create, modify, delete, and view patient data is the most important aspect of healthcare. A vital storage mechanism to perform the above functions is a database. A database is essential in development of Electronic Health Record system A database is an organized collection of data saved as a binary-type file on a computer (Sayles, 2013). Binary-typeRead MoreCommon Components Of Digital Database Management Applications1022 Words   |  5 Pages A DBMS can also provide many perspectives of a single database schema. A perspective characterizes what information the client sees and how that client sees the information. The DBMS gives a level of reflection between the reasonable diagram which characterizes the legitimate structure of the database and the physical construction that portrays the records, files and other physical instruments utilized by the database. At the point when a DBMS is utilized, frameworks can be adjusted all the moreRead MoreTechnology Changes Role of Database Administrator1195 Words   |  5 PagesTechnology Changes Role of Database Administrator The database administrator (DBA) is responsible for managing and coordinating all database activities. The DBAs job description includes database design, user coordination, backup, recovery, overall performance, and database security. The database administrator plays a crucial role in managing data for the employer. In the past the DBA job has required sharp technical skills along with management ability. (Shelly, Cashman, Waggoner 1992)Read MoreThe Evolution of The Database Essay example847 Words   |  4 Pagesinformation. This led to the development of systems like the dewy decimal system. Organizing books by subject and author made information retrieval a little easier. However, it was computer that revolutionized information storage and retrieval. Thus the first databases where born. Flat File Flat file databases where the first of many database models, almost as old as the computer. Flat file databases stored data in text files saved in the file system. There was little to no organization, it wasRead MoreData Model: Oodbms vs. Rdbms1067 Words   |  5 Pages1 Data model: OODBMS vs. RDBMS For this coursework two kinds of data models can be used. The object oriented data model, Object Oriented Database Management System(OODBMS), or the relational data model, Relational Database Management System(RDBMS). The differences between these two models and the data model to be used are described in this chapter. 1.1 Enumeration of some specifications of OODBMS and RDBMS RDBMS have been around for more than 20 years, OODBMS are relatively new; RDBMS canRead MoreWhat is the Purpose of a Database Management System?1474 Words   |  6 PagesThe purpose of this paper is to explain what a Database Management System (DBMS) is, the main principles of database design and to describe the features or characteristics of four prevalent database models. What is a DBMS? A database management system could be described as a file processing system that creates and administers data and or objects as information for the purpose of access and storage in a convenient way. Many types of programs have been written to add and extract information fromRead MoreKey Features Of The Database Management System1035 Words   |  5 Pagesof the database management system MongoDB. Day-to-day information is growing in gigantic amount. Generated information include predominant information and it will have to be analyzed for gathering essential expertise. On the whole, relational databases are used so as to system the data. These, ways works successfully for small amount of knowledge. What if the data is very tremendous? To avoid this problems Mongo databases are introduced. MongoDB is a cross-platform document-oriented database. ClassifiedRead Moreinformation system1255 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿ In all information systems, data resources must be organized and structured in some logical manner, so that they can be: D. All of the choices are correct. From a logical point of view, a(n) _______________ is the smallest data element that can be observed and manipulated. A. character A record represents a collection of _______________ that describe an entity. D. attributes All the fields used to describe the attributes of an entity are grouped to form a(n) _______________

Sunday, December 8, 2019

Mapping The Landscape Of Future Research -Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Discuss About The Mapping The Landscape Of Future Research? Answer: Introduction Logistics Management can be best defined as the supply chain component that is used to meet the different demands through proper planning, control and implementation measures. However the most important component of logistics management is the efficient movement as well as storage of the different information and goods from the source of its origin to the end destination. The following process involves inbound and outbound transportation management, warehousing, management of the fleet, meeting all the orders timely, creation of a logistics network, inventory management, demand and supply planning and many more as such. Logistics management is believed to be the part of all levels of planning and execution namely strategic, operational and tactical. Logistics Management systems capitalize on making considerable changes in the freight management, load building and optimization, mode and selection of the carrier, audits and ratings on the good and many other such systems (Cattaruzza et al. 2017). The logistics management companies use a specific set of logistics software that is built on the lines of the ERP system to effectively manage the different activities of the total process. The use of this particular software helps the organization to gain a strategic competitive advantage in the market. The goal of the following report is to identify the main issues that are faced by the Logistics companies of New South Wales in Australia. The example of a large Logistic company named Qube Holdings Private Limited has been considered by the researcher to make the report more specific and precise in nature. Overview Qube Holdings Limited is a large scale logistics and infrastructural company based in New South Wales, Australia and has its headquarters in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales State (Qube.com.au 2018). The company was founded in the year 2010 after the original investment party KFM segregated the Logistics and Infrastructural business. With an annual equity of Australian dollar 1.4 billion and the large scale of operations in its native country, the organization turns out to be the largest company in Australia. The company owns a number of freight handling and stevedoring facilities in almost all the large ports of the island country. The mentioned logistics company operates both rail and road services. The rail freight services are carried out between New South Wales and Victoria and also between Melbourne and Adelaide. Similar to the port handling subsidiaries the company has also dedicated subsidiaries in rail transportation. The ports and bulk division of the organization undertakes a number of different operations like stockpiling and the loading of the iron ore for export to other countries. Port Kembla in the southern Australian coast is used for the packing and unpacking of the heavy goods especially vehicles for export or import. Apart from building its own infrastructural capabilities the company with its own capital and other assets has build up a number of different warehouses on highways and other strategic locations to ensure the ease of logistics in the area of its operations. In the present day Qube occupies the topmost position in the market in Logistics business. Problems/Issues Qube as well as other logistic companies in Australia undergo lots of challenges which are most of the times disturbing and lead to problems for the smooth flow of the business operations. The operations of the business have been affected by the unpredictable and competitive nature of the market. The different strategies, issues, demographical issues, weather issues have been the force that is pushing the company to a blink future. There have also been problems with the shortage of space, port facilities and lack of adequate transport infrastructure. The issues have been highlighted in a detailed manner by the investigator. Geographical Challenges- Geographical issues are one of the biggest challenges that are encountered by logistics companies during carrying out their operations in Australia. The varying geographical conditions of the island continent make life tough for the smooth transportation of the goods. Traffic Congestion- The large coastal cities of Australia especially Sydney and Melbourne are notorious for their traffic congestion and it is a harrowing time for the drivers on every of the weekdays (Ellram and Cooper 2014). Though the authorities have constructed a number of freeways and by pass roads the problem does not seem to disappear. The transportation of goods especially heavy goods has become a menace for the roads. The local authorities are trying to curb out such large scale vehicular movement, thus affecting the logistics business in a tough way. Toll Roads- Too many toll roads have created financial problems for the companies like Qube who transport large scale goods and products every now and then to meet the demands of the business. The report prepared by Ellram and Cooper (2014) has seen that providing toll on each and every occasion becomes a real problem for them as much of its revenue is getting affected through the payment of tolls. Several thousands of dollars are required by the company to carry on their services in the toll roads which serve as one of the major issues. Distance- One of the most key challenges to the Australian logistics operations is the distance between different cities. A large distance between the cities renders the logistics services very vulnerable in nature (Fahimnia et al. 2015). A road trip from Sydney to Melbourne takes a huge time of close to 10 hours which is the same case for rail travel. Many remote areas in Australia are not well connected by the roads and rail network which makes it even tougher for the management of the companies to deliver the best services in these areas. Animals- The problems with animal encounters are one of the most potential threats to the business operations of these companies. Kangaroos are the most common form of menace in the rural roads of Australia. There have been number of fatal accidents in the past due to the collision of the vehicles with kangaroo. The vehicles suffer large scale damage due to such collisions (Grobelny and Michalski 2016) Road Conditions- The roads in Australia are overall good but the huge length of roads have made it tough for the authorities to properly maintain the roads. The rural roads are not so well maintained which makes it even tougher for the Logistical management companies like Qube Holdings to properly deliver goods in these places. Demographical Challenges- The demographical challenges include the rise in the ageing population of the nation which relates to the continuous degradation in the social welfare system (Myerson 2015). Logistics business cannot accept ageing population as their workers because of the incapability of these people to learn and adapt themselves to new forms of technology. Apart from this the older workers are also incapable of undertaking physically hard works. Environmental Challenges Climate Change- Climate change has been a burning topic in the recent days and it must be taken into account by the logistical companies. However the effects of global warming have created a fluctuating climatic variation in the island continent. Operating efficiently with the environment in mind has been a challenge for the logistic providers and will see a continuation in the next few years (Papadopoulos et al. 2016). The absence of the use of renewable sources of energy is one of the main reasons for the climate change. Seasonal Variations- The seasonal variations in Australia was not so drastic even a few years back but the unpredictable seasonal changes like too hot summers and too cold winters have been a problem for the organizations. The abrupt changes in the temperature have led to the disruption in the regular transportation services by the organization. Natural Disasters- Natural disaster is a very common phenomenon in the mentioned country. Bushfires, floods, cyclones are quite common in Australia. The absence of proper infrastructure and equipment renders the organizations incapable of delivering the business operations effectively. Legislative Challenges Lack of Capital- The lack of capital is one of the main problems faced by the management of the logistics companies in Australia. The lack of government funds have made the business stand on the edge of the cliff as because proper support from the government especially in constructing adequate infrastructure for the organizations to operate upon is very important to increase the percentage of trade being carrying out in the country. Transport Regulations- The local government and the federal government of the country and the states is one of the key issues faced by the logistic service providers in Australia. The road transport regulations, vehicular movement regulations and many other forms of environmental and legal regulations are a barrier to the expansion of the companies. A considerable sum of revenue has to be paid by the organizations to obtain the necessary permits to carry on the business (Prajogo Oke and Olhager 2016). Technological Challenges- There has been an absence of modern and safe technologies by the logistical service providers in Australia. The use of the traditional technologies is not viable as because it leads to wastage of time, money and energy. Miscellaneous Challenges Multi modes of Transport- After the shift of the port facilities of Qube from Port Jackson to Port Botany the transportation facilities of the company have taken a toss. The infrastructure in the new port lacks the facility of rail freight and thus the company has been forced to carry the goods until Port Jackson by freight and then unload it and again take them to Port Botany for its disposal. The process applies the same for inbound goods. The company has been facing huge crisis as a result of such a system and has been incurring huge transportation cost. Commodity Market Downturn- A recent downturn in the commodity market is one of the main problems for the business. According to, Rushton Croucher and Baker (2014) the weak demand for iron ore and coal in the international market has created negative ripples in the industry for the last couple of years. Proposals to Avoid Problems The researcher has identified a number of different problems that the logistic service provider faces in the modern times. However these problems can be easily tackled by undertaking some adequate steps namely; Integration of the Logistics business- It is important for the management of the mentioned logistics company to bring together all the other companies of the same business under one umbrella and ensure the sustainability of the business. According to, Wieland Handfield and Durach (2016) such collaboration will help to avoid conflicts with each other and carry on business in a healthy and proper environment. Moreover such a program can help to create pressure on the governments and the authorities to seriously look into the problems and come up with a viable solution. Transportation Improvement- The Company must take measures to improve the transportation system. This can be done by the use of environment friendly vehicles that emits much less pollution than the traditional vehicles. The specialty of Qube are the road trains which are large containers attached in a single truck and most of the times they exceed more than 50 meters in length. The management must consider to increase the fleet of such trucks to ensure larger flow of goods in one go. However it is also important for them to follow the environmental, legal and traffic rules while operating such vehicles (Waters and Rinsler 2014). The management of the company can also appoint a specific team which can draw out a detailed roadmap on the selection of the most profitable road networks for the organization. Government Intervention- Government intervention is perhaps the most important need for the hour to maintain the momentum of the logistics business. The federal government along with the local self government must chalk out an effective strategy to help the logistics organizations (Wisner Tan and Leong 2014). The basic task of the government will be to make sure that a proper infrastructure is there in place. This includes the construction of a number of medium and small ports for decongesting the large ports, establishment of a number of government sponsored warehouses, establishment of the railway line till Port Botany, Construction of a number of new expressways and highways, construction of a smart traffic system to avoid decongestion in these roads and many more as such. Proper government intervention will help the organization to provide sustainability and much needed stability to the logistics business. International Commercial Terms- The acceptance of the international commercial terms is a must for Qube holdings Limited. However there are many small problems that tend to disrupt the policies of such terms. This includes problems arising with the EXW works, FCA free carriers and many more such different areas as specified in the global norms. In most of the cases due to red tapism the cost of the consignment, insurance of the products is negotiated more intensely which causes wastage of time (Youngran et al. 2017). Risk Transfer, cost of the goods, fixation of the tax rates must be done strictly according to the rules. Conclusion The following report has effectively pointed out the problems that create barriers to the effective logistics management in Australia. The investigator has done a detailed analysis of each of the problems and has provided viable solutions to get rid of such problems. The proposals provided in the report can be of real help to the organization. The proper implementation of the proposals can also help the government to ensure smooth logistical operations in the country. The construction of proper infrastructure and implementation of a number of different steps as mentioned in the report can shape a bright future for the companies like Qube holdings and also strengthen the economy of the country. The analysis of the report will be helpful for the readers to get a clear idea about the term Logistics Management, the ways it is carried out in Australia, the present scenario of the Australian Logistics Market and the ways by which the problems can be mitigated. The report though is a compac t one could have been formulated in a much organized way by conducting a field survey. However the contents of the report provided here will be of immense help for any future research on the same topic. Recommendations The proposals provided by the investigator in the research can help the organization to achieve success in the long run. The use of the proper strategies can help the organization to attain sustainability and stability in the long run. The entire existing supply chain of the company can be refurbished and changed to a new look to start afresh. The change in the management structure of the organization can also be of great help. It is preferable to change the upper and middle management of the organization to get the best results in the coming future. The management of Qube in collaboration with the management of other logistics companies, the federal government, the entrepreneurs, the stakeholders, the railway department, transport department can formulate a scientific and strategic roadmap for restructuring the business and taking other measures to ensure the sustainability of the business. References "Qube | Qube Holdings | Logistics Services, Port Services, Bulk Material Handling, Third Party Container Logistics, Infrastructure."Qube.com.au. N.p., 2018. Web. 22 Jan. 2018. Bandara, Y.M., Garaniya, V., Chin, C. and Leong, Z.H., 2015. Improving logistics management using foldable/collapsible containers: a case study.The Asian Journal of Shipping and Logistics,31(1), pp.161-185. Boysen, N., Emde, S., Hoeck, M. and Kauderer, M., 2015. Part logistics in the automotive industry: Decision problems, literature review and research agenda.European Journal of operations Research,242(1), pp.107-120. Cattaruzza, D., Absi, N., Feillet, D. and Gonzlez-Feliu, J., 2017. Vehicle routing problems for city logistics.EURO Journal on Transportation and Logistics,6(1), pp.51-79. Ellram, L.M. and Cooper, M.C., 2014. Supply chain management: It's all about the journey, not the destination.Journal of Supply Chain Management,50(1), pp.8-20. Fahimnia, B., Bell, M., Hensher, D. and Sarkis, J. eds., 2015.Green logistics and transportation: A sustainable supply chain perspective(Vol. 4). Springer. Grobelny, J. and Michalski, R., 2016. A concept of a flexible approach to the facilities layout problems in logistics systems. InInformation Systems Architecture and Technology: Proceedings of 36th International Conference on Information Systems Architecture and TechnologyISAT 2015Part I(pp. 171-181). Springer International Publishing. Mangan, J. and Lalwani, C., 2016.Global logistics and supply chain management. John Wiley Sons. Myerson, P.A., 2015.Supply chain and logistics management made easy: Methods and applications for planning, operations, integration, control and improvement, and network design. Pearson Education. Papadopoulos, T., Gunasekaran, A., Dubey, R. and Balta, M., 2016. Big Data and RFID in Supply Chain and Logistics Management: A Review of the Literature.Supply Chain Management in the Big Data Era, p.108. Prajogo, D., Oke, A. and Olhager, J., 2016. Supply chain processes: Linking supply logistics integration, supply performance, lean processes and competitive performance.International Journal of Operations Production Management,36(2), pp.220-238. Rushton, A., Croucher, P. and Baker, P., 2014.The handbook of logistics and distribution management: Understanding the supply chain. Kogan Page Publishers. Waters, D. and Rinsler, S., 2014.Global logistics: New directions in supply chain management. Kogan Page Publishers. Wieland, A., Handfield, R.B. and Durach, C.F., 2016. Mapping the landscape of future research themes in supply chain management.Journal of Business Logistics,37(3), pp.205-212. Wisner, J.D., Tan, K.C. and Leong, G.K., 2014.Principles of supply chain management: A balanced approach. Cengage Learning. Youngran, S., Thai, V., Grewal, D. and Kim, Y., 2017. Do corporate sustainable management activities improve customer satisfaction, word of mouth intention and repurchase intention?: Empirical evidence from the shipping industry.International Journal of Logistics Management,28(2), pp.555-570.

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Multinational Company Essay Example

Multinational Company Essay According to knowledge and network-based theories of multinational companies (MNCs), the main source of MNC competitive advantage is the creation and transfer of knowledge within the MNC system. The processes of knowledge creation and knowledge transfer are extensively investigated in the present literature.However, there are issues that are still underdeveloped, such as control and organizational mechanisms as a micro foundation of modern MNC theories. This paper is aimed at presenting an overview of the modern theoretical approaches of MNC competitive advantages from the managerial point of view. The applicability of these concepts is further considered in the case of MNC affiliates doing their business in transition economies in order to provide guidelines for future empirical research.Key words: multinational companies, knowledge-based theory, network-based theory, transition economies. INTRODUCTION M 1 2 NCs are recognized as the main actors of e international business, internat ional business financing and global economies. According to Ghoshal and Bartlett, MNC is a firm that has substantial direct investment in foreign countries that it actively manages. 2 The value of their sales in host countries overpasses the value of trade (imports and exports) in today’s world economy.Multinational companies attracted scientific and public attention Dr Biljana Pesalj, Assistant, Faculty of Economics, University of Belgrade, E-mail address: biljana. [emailprotected] com Ghoshal Sumantra and Bartlett A. Christopher, â€Å"The Multinational Corporation as an Interorganizational Networkâ€Å", Academy of Management Review, 15, 4, 1990, 603–625, p. 603. 237 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) rom the moment of their appearance, and especially from the beginning of their intensive growth (during the 1960s). There are many interesting and important issues concerning MNC that have been elaborated i n the literature such as motives of internationalization, forms and strategies of internationalization, effects on host and home countries, political aspects of MNC activities, emerging forms of international business financings, corporate social responsibility of MNC, relationship between the headquarters and MNC affiliates, etc.However, many questions have remain unanswered, such as particular mechanisms used to coordinate MNC’s activities, particularities of MNC affiliates doing their business in transition economies, etc. Modern theories of MNC, such as knowledge-based and network-based theories, indicate that in comparison to national3 companies4 the ability to create and transfer knowledge internally is one of the main competitive advantages of MNCs. Drawing upon knowledge-based and network–based theoretical views MNC is considered â€Å"repository of knowledge and a superior way of organizing knowledge transfer across MNC units†. In the largest number of studies, (theoretical and empirical) MNC is considered a differentiated network where knowledge is created in various parts of MNC and then internally transferred to different interrelated units. 6 The creation of innovation in MNC is no longer focused on the home country, but could be dispersed throughout the MNC system. There are authors which point out that innovative activities of foreign subsidiaries are a crucial part of innovative performance of MNC as a whole. 7 Subsidiary’s local business networks (i. . 3 4 We use the term â€Å"national companies† to denote those that organize their production activities in a sole country in contrast to multinational companies. See: Minbaeva D, Pedersen T, Bjorkman I, Fey CF, Park HJ, â€Å"MNC knowledge transfer, subsidiary absorptive capacity, and HRM†, Journal of Internation Business Studies, 34, 2003, pp. 586–599; Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats and Holm Ulf, â€Å"Subsidiary Embeddedness and Competence Develo pment in MNCs – A Multi – level Analysisâ€Å" Organization Studies, 22, 6, 2001, pp. 013–1034; Kogut Bruce and Zander Udo, â€Å"Knowledge of the firm and the evolutionary theory of the multinational corporation†, Journal of International Business Studies, Fourth Quarter, 1993, pp. 625–645. Kogut Bruce and Zander Udo, ibid. , p. 625. See: Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats and Holm Ulf, â€Å"Balancing subsidiary influence in the federative MNC: a business network view†, Journal of International Business Studies, 38, 2007, pp. 802–818; Hedlung G. , â€Å"The Hypermodern MNC – A Heterarchy? â€Å", Human Resource Management, 25, 1986, pp. –35 Yamin Mo and Otto Juliet, â€Å"Patterns of knowledge flows and MNC innovative performance†, Journal of International Management, 10, 2004, pp. 239–258. 5 6 7 238 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) involving sup pliers, customers and competitors) are often a critical source of innovation and capability development for the subsidiary. 8 In the paper, we first present the literature review on the theory of international business and theory of MNC with the focus on the modern approaches such acknowledge-based theory, network-based theory and social capital theory.Then we consider the applicability of these modern views of MNC as a possible theoretical background for the empirical research on MNC in transition economies. Namely, transition economies suffer from many distortions in comparison to developed ones and are specific in many aspects; therefore, they may require modified theoretical approaches to the conceptualization of MNC. We discuss the results of the most recent empirical studies conducted in some of the transition economies. The bjective of this analysis is to facilitate and improve the process of establishing hypotheses and conducting future empirical research on different aspect s of MNC in transition economies. The empirical results are expected to reflect at some point the modification or alternation of the MNC theoretical conceptualization, doing business in transition economies. DUNNING’S ECLECTIC PARADIGM Until the late 1980s, the dominant accepted theory of FDI was Dunning’s eclectic paradigm (OLI theory).Within the scope of this theory, Dunning proposed three main determinants of international activity of the firm and they are as follows: ownership, location and internalization (OLI triad). According to this traditional approach to the internationalization processes and MNC, firms are motivated to internationalize their business in order to exploit their ownership or firm specific advantages. 9 Traditional approaches consider that there is just one-way direction of knowledge transfer and learning – from headquarters to foreign subsidiaries.Market imperfections and high transaction costs are seen as the main reasons why MNCs prefe r transfer of knowledge-based assets using FDI (within the MNC system) to using market mechanisms. 8 Tsai Hsin-Ju and Yamin Mo, â€Å"Organizational influences on innovation transfer in multinational corporations†, Workshop on knowledge flows, School of Business and Management, Queen Mary, University of London, 2007, Internet: http://www. qmul. ac. uk /~bsw019/tsai 16/1/2008. Dunning H. John, Theories and Paradigms of International Business Activity, The Selected Essays of John H.Dunning, Volume I, Edward Elgar, 2002. 9 239 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) However, as Dunning has noticed in his later work, OLI triad needed to be supplemented over time because, apart from the mentioned determinants of international activity of firms, MNCs are increasingly investing abroad in order to protect or augment their core competences. Therefore, the existing MNC theory was not powerful enough to offer a comprehensive interp retation of the actual international business activities.During the 1980s, as a response to criticism, Dunning introduced dynamic variables connected with the strategy of the firm. In his papers, at the beginning of 2000, Dunning concluded that there was the growing importance of relational assets (productive inter-firm and intra-firm relationships that determined the amount and structure of international business) that largely influenced OLI triad of variables of international business. TRANSITION FROM TRADITIONAL TO MODERN VIEWS OF MNC A change in the academic and research focus in dealing with MNC could be noticed at the end of the 1980s.In the period before the 1980s, the research in the field the MNC was mostly related to the analysis of the relationship between headquarters and affiliates and the analysis of the decisions to invest abroad as could be noticed in the Dunning’s work. But then, the focus moved to the activities of coordination in managing the network of for eign affiliates and to the analysis of competitive advantages resulting from the economy of scope of that kind of network. This change of focus called for a new theoretical, conceptual and methodological background.The research in the field of international business and MNC has been very fruitful during the past two decades and has thrown light upon many aspects of the nature, strategy and organization of the multinational enterprise. The change in the theoretical approach was evident in the conceptualization of the MNC organizational model. Regarding the model of MNC there are generally two main schools of thought. The first (traditional) line of thought used a model of the home-based MNC. 0 The implication of this view of organization and management of MNC is that MNC makes a clear distinction between core and peripheral activities for the improvement of competitive advantages on a global scale. Core activities are always kept in the home country, while only peripheral activities are allocated to affiliates. The second 10 Solvell Orjan and Zander Ivo, â€Å"Organization of the Dynamic Multinational Enterprise, the Home–Based and Heterarchial MNC†, International Studies of Management and Organization, 25,1-2, 1995, pp. 17–38. 240 Pesalj B. Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) (new, modern) line of thought includes several models of MNC, such as the geocentric firm,11 the diversified MNC,12 the inter-organizational network13 and the heterarchical MNC. 14 Without going into details and differences between these organizational models, we note that all these models have in common the suggestion that there are complex organizational structures and management processes in MNC aimed at upgrading competitive advantages by combining â€Å"global integration† and â€Å"local differentiation† of MNC.Since we consider this second stream more acceptable and more present in the modern literat ure, we focus on the concept of MNC as a differentiated interorganizational network (transnational solution given by Bartlett and Ghoshal15) as one of the approaches within this strand. The concept of MNC as a differentiated inter-organizational network means that MNC cannot be regarded as a uniform organization, but as a system of interrelated and interconnected organizational parts that are very different.The organizational parts of MNC differ greatly in their characteristics as well as in their contribution and role in the development of the competitive advantages of MNC as a whole. We do not consider the approach of Bartlett and Ghoshal as superior in comparison to, for example, the model of Hedlund or others, but we choose this approach because it has initiated a number of empirical studies that have considerably contributed to the understanding of sources of MNC’s competitive advantages.The most recent developments in theories of the firm view a firm as a â€Å"knowled ge-creating entity† and argue that knowledge and the capability to create and use are the most important sources of a firm’s sustainable competitive advantage. 16 As many authors point out, there has been a 11 12 13 14 15 16 Perlmutter V. Howard, â€Å"The Tortuous Evolution of the Multinational Corporation†, Columbia Journal of World Business, January – February, 1969, pp. 9–18. Prahalad C. K. , â€Å"Strategic Choices in Diversified MNCs†, Harvard Business Review, July – August, 1976.Bartlett Christopher and Ghoshal Sumantra, Managing across borders: The transnational solution. , Harvard Business School Press, Boston, MA, 1989. Hedlund G. , â€Å"The Hypermodern MNC – A Heterarchy? â€Å", Human Resource Management, 25, 1986, pp. 9–35. Bartlett Christopher and Ghoshal Sumantra, Managing across borders: The transnational solution. , loc. cit. Nonaka Ikujiro, Toyama Ryoko and Nagata Akiya, â€Å"A Firm as a Knowledge-c reating Entity: A New Perspective on the Theory of the Firm†, Industrial and Corporate Change, 9, 1, 2000, pp. 1–20. 241 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 37–259) revolutionary transition from the conceptual model of MNC, as a market failure approach of internalization theory and transaction costs theory, to knowledge–based theories of the firm. The new perspective of MNC is based on the application of knowledge and network theories. The knowledge-based theory of MNC mainly deals with the characteristics of knowledge, transfer of knowledge and determinants of these processes. Within the knowledge-based theory, there is a large body of literature that deals with RD units that are seen as the main sources of the knowledge creation. 7 On the other side, the network theory and particularly the embeddedness concept give some more evidence on the other MNC source of knowledge – knowledge created and assimilate d in the close cooperation with local partnering organizations. These two approaches will be presented in the following text. THE NETWORK-BASED THEORY OF MNC MNC’s affiliates are the main sources of competitive advantages of MNC because they build deep and long-term relationships with local business partners as well as with other units of the MNC system. Due to these close relationships, new knowledge could be created.The main characteristic of this knowledge is that it is tacit – embedded in a specific context. Embeddedness could be defined as a set of close relationships with partner organizations in the business network and it relates to the intensity of information exchange and to the level of adjustments made between business partners. The term â€Å"embeddedness† has its origin in the classification of different types of knowledge systematized by Lam. 18 This author used tacit – explicit and individual – collective dimensions to identify the following four types of knowledge: embrained (individual-explicit), embodied (individualtacit), encoded collective-explicit) and embedded (collective-tacit). Embedded knowledge is tacit and context-specific (collective) ingrained in inter-dependent routines, technologies and procedures as well as in individuals who share common experiences and values. Such characteristics raise higher ambiguity and complexity barriers to transferability of this type of knowledge. 17 18 Further analysis in this field showed that RD units have very important roles in the MNC system. Lam Alice, â€Å"Tacit knowledge, organizational learning and societal institutions: an integrated framework†, Organizational Studies, 21, 2000, pp. 87-513. 242 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) The concept of affiliate embeddedness in the business network of relationships with stakeholders is opposed to that of traditional business contact, which a firm makes with its suppliers and consumers and that ends with the exchange. Some relationships in the business network of the affiliate are developed over time, so they evolve from traditional relations to a high level of cooperation and integration. 9 Therefore, the more the affiliate is dependent on its partners in carrying out its business activities and the more it is adjusted to them, the more it is embedded in the business network. If partner organizations are also dependent on the affiliate and adjusted to it, it is more possible that the affiliate embeddedness will be stimulated, because the interdependence leads to the creation of long-term cooperation. So, the higher the interdependence between an affiliate and its partners, the more embedded the affiliate will be in the business network. 0 Further research based on the application of the embeddedness concept clearly indicates that relationships in the network have an influence on affiliate performance. 21 Researchers in this field hypothesize and empirically prove that the closer the business cooperation of the affiliate with partner organizations the easier it is for the affiliate to assimilate new knowledge that comes from outside the MNC system. Consequently, the affiliate is able to innovate and improve its performance in the local market (market performance).The empirical research has also found that the ability of MNC affiliates to assimilate new knowledge from the local business environment could be a crucial source of competitive advantage for MNC as a whole and not just a source of market performance of an affiliate. 22 The empirical research 19 Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats, Pedersen Torben, â€Å"Subsidiary performance in multinational corporations: the importance of technology embeddednessâ€Å", International Business Review, 10, 2001, pp. 3–23. Andersson Ulf and Forsgren Mats, â€Å"Subsidiary Embeddedness and Control in the MNCâ€Å", International Business Review, 5, 5, 1996, p p. 87–508. Andersson Ulf and Forsgren Mats, â€Å"Subsidiary Embeddedness and Control in the MNCâ€Å", ibid; Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats, Pedersen Torben, â€Å"Subsidiary performance in multinational corporations: the importance of technology embeddednessâ€Å", loc. cit. See: Ghoshal Sumantra and Bartlett A. Christopher, â€Å"The Multinational Corporation as an Interorganizational Networkâ€Å", Academy of Management Review, 15, 4, 1990, pp. 603–625; Gupta Anil and Govindarajan Vijau, â€Å"Knowledge flows and the structure of control within multinational corporationsâ€Å", Academy of Management Review, 16, 4, 1991, pp. 68–792; Dunning John and Lundan Sarianna, â€Å"The Geographical Sources of Competitiveness of Multinational Enterprises: an econometric analysisâ€Å", International Business Review, 7, 1998, pp. 115–133. 20 21 22 243 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) dealing sp ecifically with technological knowledge has confirmed the hypothesis that a higher level of external technological affiliate embeddedness is correlated with higher importance of that affiliate for the development of MNC as a system. 23 Authors Andersson et al. 4 focused on the role and performance effect of the subsidiary’s embeddedness. This study found that external subsidiary embeddedness had a positive impact on the development of products (market performances) and the processes in MNC (performances of MNC as a whole through transfer of knowledge). The results of the Andersson et al. ’s study also indicate that there might be a negative relationship between external embeddedness and influence (power) of the subsidiary inside MNC. These results indicate the paradoxical effect of embeddedness.Namely, embeddedness is a way to provide some new competences for the subsidiary and increase its performance and performance of other units, but on the other hand, it could lea d to a reduced interest in contributing to the MNC’s overall performance. These remarks point out that there are some conflicting forces inherent in the federative MNC: 1) gravitation of units, based on the mutual interest in business within the same organization and 2) centrifugal forces as a result of subsidiaries’ embeddedness in the unique local business contexts.This issue will be further discussed in the following segment within the context of knowledge transfer. THE KNOWLEDGE-BASED THEORY OF MNC Knowledge-based theory of MNC views these companies as â€Å"social communities that specialize in the creation and internal transfer of knowledge†. 25 This approach is used by Kogut and Zander26 to make an evolution of the theory of MNC suggesting that MNCs have superior efficiency in knowledge transfer across borders than through external market 23 24 Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats and Holm Ulf, â€Å"Subsidiary Embeddedness and Competence Development in MNCs â⠂¬â€œ A Multi – level Analysisâ€Å", loc. it. Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats and Holm Ulf, â€Å"Balancing subsidiary influence in the federative MNC: a business network view†, Journal of International Business Studies, 38, 2007, pp. 802-818. Kogut Bruce and Zander Udo, â€Å"Knowledge of the firm and the evolutionary theory of the multinational corporation†, Journal of International Business Studies, Fourth Quarter, 1993, 625-645, p. 625. Ibid. 25 26 244 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) mechanisms.MNCs are specialized in transfer of tacit knowledge27 that could not be distributed successfully through the market. 28 These authors have empirically proven that the less codifiable and the harder to teach is the technology, the more likely transfer will be done inside the firm. The new perspective of the firm argues that organizations have distinctive advantages in comparison to some institutional mechan isms such as market. These distinctive advantages are based on organizations’ particular capabilities for creating and sharing of knowledge, having in mind tacit knowledge, in particular.The research of knowledge-based and network-based theories provided the re-assessment of the role of the subsidiary, suggesting that it could be strategic in the MNC system. It is now largely accepted that knowledge, created and accumulated in the network of MNC’s organizational units, is a strategically important source of MNC competitive advantage. 29 MNCs have the possibility to access this stock of knowledge, but also to combine it in order to find some new ways of their use. But, there are many challenges for the MNC management concerning successful transfer of knowledge across units.Namely, there are authors that indicate that transfer of knowledge inside the 27 Tacit knowledge is too complex and could not be transferred through the market, so MNCs appear to be efficient vehicles for the transfer of this type of knowledge across the borders. Competences are idiosyncratic, specific, tacit, non–codified knowledge that is very difficult to transfer from one affiliate to another. Speaking of the knowledge transfer it is important to notice the difference between explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge.Explicit knowledge is objective and can be expressed in forms such as: data, scientific formulas, specific actions and manuals. Tacit knowledge is difficult to codify and formalize because it is embedded in individuals and is experiential and subjective. Tacit knowledge such as belief, perspective, mental models, ideas and ideals are embedded in people, while organizational knowledge is embedded in organizational processes, procedures, routines and structures. Since explicit knowledge could be easily transmitted it could also be easily imitated by competitors and because of that it is not likely to be a source of competitive advantage.In contrast, tacit know ledge is difficult to access from outside, it is so hard to imitate and because of that it is very important in the creation of distinctive competences. It is clear that tacit knowledge is hard to transmit and it could be done only with the exchange of key people and all the systems that support them (Nonaka Ikujiro, Toyama Ryoko and Nagata Akiya, â€Å"A Firm as a Knowledge-creating Entity: A New Perspective on the Theory of the Firm†, Industrial and Corporate Change, 9, 1, 2000, 1-20). Kogut Bruce and Zander Udo, â€Å"Knowledge of the firm and the evolutionary theory of the multinational corporation†, loc. cit.Bjorkman Ingmar, Barner-Rasmussen Wilhelm and Li Li, â€Å"Managing knowledge transfer in MNCs: the impact of headquarters control mechanisms†, Journal of International Business Studies, 35, 2004, p. 443. 28 29 245 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) organization is very difficult due to the ch aracteristics of knowledge itself, the specifics of the donor, the specifics of the receiver, and the nature of the relationship between them. 30 It has also been suggested that there are significant barriers to knowledge and innovation transfer because knowledge is embedded in social capital. 1 Affiliates develop long-term relationships with its external partnering organizations. In these relationships, organizations are deeply involved and develop their absorptive, problem-solving and innovative capacity. But, this capacity (knowledge) is developed inside a specific context that could be completely useless in a different context. In this way, the question of successful transfer is raised and further, competences of the management to coordinate and motivate knowledge-sharing are brought to front.Complex and close relationships that the affiliate has with its stakeholders could create competences and knowledge that could not be easily applied within a different business context. Kno wledge, developed by the affiliate, critically depends on the business context, and even on specific relationships. This feature is positively correlated with the ability of the affiliate to create new knowledge. For example, close and long-term cooperation with certain consumers or suppliers provides enlargement of the affiliate’s capacity to solve problems and to create new knowledge.But, the more the solutions are adequate for a specific context the more difficult they are to apply in the business context of other affiliates in the system. As a consequence, it is assumed that the technological embeddedness of the affiliate is positively correlated with the competence development, but also with the characteristics of the context. So, it could be concluded that there is a trade-off between embeddedness (which determines the market performance of the affiliate) and the possibilities of knowledge transfer to other organizational units of MNC (which determines the organizationa l performance of MNC affiliates).However, even though these theoretical considerations sound reasonable they have not been confirmed by the previous empirical research. The study of Andersson et al. 32 has shown that the affiliate embeddedness in the network of 30 These barriers are known as â€Å"corporate immune system† in Birkinshaw Julian and Ridderstrale Jonas, â€Å"Fighting the corporate immune system: a process study of subsidiary initiatives in multinational corporations†, International Business Review, 8, 1999, pp. 149–180.Zander Ivo and Solvell Orjan, â€Å"Cross–Border Innovation in the Multinational Corporation, A Research Agenda†, International Studies of Management Organization, 30, 2, 2000, pp. 44–67. Andersson Ulf, Forsgren Mats and Holm Ulf, â€Å"Subsidiary Embeddedness and Competence Development in MNCs – A Multi – level Analysisâ€Å" Organization Studies, 22, 6, 2001, pp. 1013–1034. 31 32 246 Pes alj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) business relationships is positively correlated with the competence development of MNC as a whole.This conclusion does not imply that all the relationships that an affiliate has with its partners are equally important and that affiliates should be equally embedded in all parts of the network. It means that only some relationships have these features, and they have to be recognized and developed. With regard to these challenges, there is a very important line of research that is focused on the ability of the subsidiary to act as a mediator between external and internal network of MNC.This research stream is especially focused on knowledge transfer within MNC, its determinants and effects on the performance. Studies investigate characteristics of knowledge transfers,33 characteristics of the sender and/or the receiver,34 the relationship between organizational design and knowledge transfers35 and the relationship between knowledge transfers and performances of the sender or receiver. 6 ORGANIZATIONAL MECHANISMS AND KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER IN MNCS Reviewing the knowledge-based approach to MNCs, authors Foss and Pedersen point out that even though it is a very popular and leading modern approach, in the theory of MNC there is still â€Å"a lack of adequate understanding of many of the causal mechanisms and contextual factors in relation between knowledge processes and organizational factors†. 7 Despite a great contribution of the knowledge-based theory to better understanding of MNC on the basis of investigation of importance, determinants and performances of knowledge transfer there are still some important aspects that are 33 34 35 36 Kogut Bruce and Zander Udo, â€Å"Knowledge of the firm and the evolutionary theory of the multinational corporation†, loc. cit. Gupta, Anil and Govindarajan, Vijay, â€Å"Knowledge Flows within Multinational Corporations†, Strategic Management Journal, 21, 2000, pp. 73–496. O’Donnell W. Sharon, â€Å"Managing Foreign Subsidiaries: Agents of Headquarters, or an Independent Network? †, Strategic Management Journal, 21, 2000, pp. 525–548. Mahnke Volker, Pedersen Torben and Venzin Markus, â€Å"Why do MNC subsidiaries engage in knowledge sharing with other subsidiaries and what are the implications for performance†, DRUID 10th Anniversary Summer Conference, Copenhagen, Denmark, June 27–29, 2005, Internet: http://www. druid. dk/uploads/tx_picturedb/ds2005-1488. df 8/01/2008. Foss Nicolai and Pedersen Torben, â€Å"Organizing knowledge processes in the multinational corporation: an introduction†, Journal of International Business Studies, 35, 2004, pp. 340–349. 37 247 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) underdeveloped. More research is needed on issues of organizational control mechanisms that would give micro foundations to the knowledge-based theory of MNC.More attention needs to be devoted to some issues such as â€Å"provision of incentives, the monitoring of managements and employees, etc. ,†38 and how they may influence the core processes investigated within the knowledge-based theory of MNC – transferring and deploying of knowledge. In the most recent studies using knowledge-based approach of MNC, we could notice that these remarks of Foss and Pedersen are still valid in the present. In order to deal with these issues especially useful is the literature that applies the concept of differentiated MNC.This approach largely provides an empirically based insight into the organizational aspects of knowledge transfers between MNC units. Also, the approach to the research of organizational mechanisms that is based on the social capital theory has provided some very useful insight. To foster knowledge flows within MNC, the parent company has at its disposal tailoring and control mechanisms in order to provide that knowledge is shared among units and consequently that performance is increased. 9 The other relevant argument is revealed in the study of Bjorkman et al. 40 Namely, the process of competences development engages human resources that are nowadays the most valuable resource. Once created, transfer of knowledge that is tacit and the context is specific requires the assistance of the same human resources that participated in the process of creation. So, the subsidiary might face some trade-off between the engagement of resources in the process of competence creation and in the process of knowledge transfer to other units. Therefore, eadquarters need to apply some mechanisms to motivate affiliates to engage its resources in the process of knowledge outflows for the benefits of other units and MNC as a whole, since the same resources could be used in the process of competence development for its own benefits, leading to a better po sition in the MNC system. 41 38 39 Ibid. , p. 341. Rabbiosi Larissa, â€Å"The evolution of reverse knowledge transfer within multinational corporations†, Paper ID: A108, â€Å"The Capitalization of Knowledge: cognitive, economic, social cultural aspects† Turin, Italy, 18–21 May, 2005, Internet: http://www. riplehelix5. com/pdf/A108_THC5. pdf 11/1/2008. Bjorkman Ingmar, Barner-Rasmussen Wilhelm and Li Li, â€Å"Managing knowledge transfer in MNCs: the impact of headquarters control mechanisms†, Journal of International Business Studies, 35, 2004, pp. 443–455. Ibid. 40 41 248 Pesalj B. , Konkurentske prednosti multinacionalnih kompanija, MP 2, 2011 (str. 237–259) Mahnke et al. 42 contributed with a new perspective of the contributing subsidiary – a unit that shares knowledge with other parts of MNC, analyzing its motives to do so and effects on its performance.These authors investigated reasons

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Informative Essay Sample on Malcolm X

Informative Essay Sample on Malcolm X Malcolm Little, known as Malcolm X later on in his life, was born on May 19, 1925 in Omaha, Nebraska. Earl and Louis Norton Little, his parents, worked hard to support their children of eight. Malcolm’s mother was a homemaker and his father was a Baptist minister and a supporter of the Black National leader, Marcus Garvey. As a result Malcolm’s father received many death threats from white supremacist. They were forced to move to many different places. In 1929 the Littles’ house was burned to the ground due to their strong support of African American advancement. Two years later the body of Earl Little was found mutilated lying across the towns trolley track. The police ruled it an accident but the Littles were certain that it was a member of the Black Legion. After Earl’s death Malcolm’s mother had an emotional breakdown and was sent to a mental institution. Her children were separated and sent to different foster homes. Malcolm was smart and had a dream of becoming a lawyer, but he lost his interest in school when his favorite teacher told him, â€Å"A lawyer is no realistic goal for a nigger.† Malcolm dropped out of school and spent time in Boston finding different jobs to earn money. By 1942 Malcolm was affiliated with narcotics, prostitution and gambling rings. Malcolm and his best friend Malcolm Jarvis, also known as Shorty, was arrested and convicted on burglary charges in 1946. He was sentenced to seven years in prison. Malcolm’s whole life changed. Malcolm’s brother came to visit him and told him about the Nation of Islam. He became very interested and studied the teachings of the Islam Nation. In 1952 he was paroled and devoted himself the Islam Nation. He changed his last name to X because he considered Little to be a slave name and chose X to represent his lost tribal name. Elijah Muhammad appointed Malcolm as a minister and national spokesperson for the Nation of Islam. He also allowed Malcolm to establish new mosques in cities such as Detroit, Michigan, and Harlem, New York. Malcolm used the newspapers, television, and word of mouth to spread the Muslim message to others. Malcolm had much controversy surrounding him. Even FBI agents posed as Malcolm’s bodyguard to monitor the Nation of Islam’s activities. Malcolm met Betty Shabaz and then married her in 1958. Malcolm felt betrayed when he found out that Elijah Muhammad was secretly having relations with up to six different women, some of which resulted in children. As a result Malcolm ended his relation with the Islam Nation. Malcolm founded the Muslim Mosque INC around the same time. Malcolm went on a pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. This trip changed Malcolm’s views on the world. He quoted â€Å"blonde haired, blued eyed men I could call my brother†. Before when Malcolm was with the Nation of Islam, they felt the white man and their society worked to keep blacks from making themselves more powerful and achieving political power, economic, and social success. When he returned to the United States he taught to all the races not just to African Americans. The nation of Islam wasn’t very pleased with Malcolm after he renounced Elijah Muhammad. They had a mark of assassination on Malcolm. They tried many times but failed. They even firebombed his house with his wife and children. They all escaped with mild injuries. On February 21, 1965 at a speaking engagement in Manhattan, New York, at the Audubon Ballroom Malcolm was killed. Three gunmen rushed Malcolm onstage and shot his fifteen times at close range. Malcolm was pronounced dead on arrival. 1500 people attended his funeral. His wife had his twin daughters later on that year. The three men who murdered Malcolm were all associated with the Islam Nation and were convicted of first degree murder. Malcolm was buried at the Ferncliff Cemetery in Hartsdale, New York. You can order a custom essay, term paper, research paper, thesis or dissertation on Malcolm X topics at our professional custom essay writing service which provides students with custom papers written by highly qualified academic writers. High quality and no plagiarism guarantee! Get professional essay writing help at an affordable cost.

Friday, November 22, 2019

Are INFJs Funny Understanding This Rare Personality Type

Are INFJs Funny Understanding This Rare Personality Type SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips INFJs are the rarest of the Meyers-Briggs personality types, making up less than one percent of the population. Often known as "diplomats," INFJs are known as idealistic doers who will fight tirelessly for causes they believe in. But what does that mean for what INFJs are like day-to-day as friends, co-workers, family members, and romantic partners? Are they closed off? Are they helpful? Is an INFJ funny? Read on to find out more. The Top 5 Characteristics of INFJs INFJ stands for Introversion, Intuition, Feeling, and Judgement. INFJs are extremely rare, and have a unique combination of traits. They are both soft-spoken and willing to fight for what they believe in. Consider these top five personality traits of INFJs. #1: Extremely Private As introverts, INFJs keep their personal thoughts and feelings close to the vest. They don't trust easily, so they don't like to share about themselves until they've let someone into their inner circle. It takes INFJs a long time to truly open up to other people. #2: Determined and Passionate INFJs love a cause. They are passionate, determined fighters for what they believe in. When INFJs believe that something or someone is important, they will fight tirelessly for it. #3: Insightful INFJs are known for being able to see connections that others may not easily perceive. They can often see through deceit and have a penchant for knowing when they're being lied to. INFJs also understand emotions and make perceptive and intuitive friends, often knowing something is wrong before you do. #4: Perfectionistic INFJs believe in perfection- in business, in relationships, in friendships. They will fight to achieve great results in all aspects of their lives, but can be quick to drop people and situations if they feel that something is not working out as it should be. #5: Altruistic INFJs fight for the greater good. There's a reason why some of the most well-known humanitarians in history, including Mother Theresa and Gandhi, were INFJs. They don't want to advance themselves; they fight because they want to make the world a better place. What Are INFJs Like in Relationships? Now that we know more about what INFJs are like as people, what are they like in relationships? Are they loyal? Is an INFJ funny? Are they demanding? INFJs don't let new people into their lives easily, but once they do, they are warm, amiable companions. INFJs will fight for their friends, romantic partners, and family members tirelessly. They want to make sure their partners are happy and healthy. Is an INFJ funny? While, as introverts, INFJs don't love to be the center of attention at a party, they do like to joke around with their loved ones. In situations where they're comfortable, INFJs can even seem extroverted. The Bottom Line INFJs are loyal, caring, and intuitive companions. They love having a cause, and will fight tirelessly for people and ideas that they believe in. If you're lucky enough to know an INFJ, you're likely to have a positive, deep relationship.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

4G Wireless Networks Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

4G Wireless Networks - Research Paper Example In 2001 a new technology was launched in Japan by the name of 3G which stands for third generation telecommunication. In mid 2010 the networks which were widely used for wireless transporters in U.S. were 3G. 3G networks are considered as a noteworthy development over 2G arrangements as they offer high speeds for data transfer. The improved technology offered by 4G over 3G can be compared to the High Definition TV features (diffen.com, 2011). 1. Services and application 3G is the abbreviation for 3rd generation which is a standard defined for wireless technology which allows internet browsing over wireless networks. A good example of 3G technology is EV-DO. Next is the 4G technology which is the generic abbreviation for 4th generation wireless technology which has been optimized for data transfer over wireless networks. This method provides improved speed and efficiency of data delivery. LTE technology is an instance of 4G network compatibility. The 3G and 4G networks comprise of a b road range of cellular data tools. 4G offers speed which is ten times quicker hen 3G networks and it is categorized having downstream range between 20 and 10 Mbps (Nadel, 2010). 2. Network architecture The underlying network architecture of 3G mobile network constitutes of a circuit-switched and packet-switched network. The services which are offered by this technology include wireless voice telephone, mobile TV facility, video calls and mobile internet accessibility. The underlying network architecture embedded in this technology is radio interface which is referred to as â€Å"Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), Code Divisions Multiple Access (CDMA), High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), 2000, GSM (Global System for Mobile), and some referred to as GAN (Generic Access Method)† (Nadel, 2010). 3. Data throughput CDMA2000 is a technology of 3G network which is largely utilized in North America, The data throughput which is offered by this technology is up to 14Mbits/s which has the ability to p rovide additional features like, supplementary outlets, altered inflection and the associated coding techniques, and an aptitude to recover easily from errors. The WCDMA disparate to CDMA utilizes a series of two up to around five channels. The fourth generation networks are outside the range of 3G technology which is designed at higher data rate that falls between 100Mbps to 1Gbps (netlogix.com, 2009). 4. User perceptions If we compare 3G and 4G networks it is clearly apparent that mostly 4G networks have elevated bandwidth which ranges to approximately 100Mbps. 4G networks are able to support multimedia services contrary to 3G networks. The 3G network is designed to include both circuit switched and packet switched networks. If we consider other functions of the system it can be found that 4G has emerged as a more secured and reliable 3G data transmission technology. Moreover 4G networks are recognized in providing international mobility and network scalability which is why it is widely recognized and accepted (Gobjuka, 2010). 2. Distinguish between the 4G LTE, 4G WiMax, and 4G WiBro networks 1. Download and Upload speeds 4G LTE is considered as the current advancement in the range of GSM broadband arrangement. HSPA is defined to provide uplink speeds of 11.5 Mb/s and downlink speeds having 28 Mb/s, while LTE is designed for working with data speeds in the range of downlink speed of 100 Mb/s and uplink

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Confessions of an economic hitman Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Confessions of an economic hitman - Essay Example Secondly I need to evaluate the economic value of this jungle in terms of how much its worth in both nominal and real value. For instance, assuming the jungle is rich in oil, then how much is that oil worth and how much does it benefit the small population in the jungle? If for instance am supposed to trash the jungle by either burning the resources, the value of $ 10 million a year in relation to the damage I will cause to the environment and the benefits I would deprive the people, in the annual analysis of the value of the jungle and its resources would be roughly more than $10 million promised and considering the welfare of the people who depend on it either directly or indirectly, and the long term analysis of the benefits; in a bigger perspective than the annual remuneration, it is not worth the price. According to the â€Å"confessions by economic hit man†, most citizens of once rich nations are sabotaged to pay recurring costs/interests of mistakes done by a few indivi duals for longer time than these individuals took to benefit from these mistake which is not fair. Question2: Do the CEOs of major oil companies know about the Economic Hit Man? Discuss why they might not and how they might look at this book. No, I don’t think they know because from his story where he is headed to shell in 2003, he is on a mission to â€Å"end a war he probably created†. This is to mean that his mission was to talk to these communities about their control of the reserves which communities were ready to die for in the name of survival of their generations. If we have to look at the operations of the CEOs of these companies they are truly in the dark on the â€Å"favors† extended to their companies by these economic hit men just to be surprised by the interests to be paid back. The fact that EHTs is a group of elite men and women who utilize the financial organizations that foment other nation’s subservient to corporatocracy, the fact that they give loans and grants for ports, pipe lines and high ways, and the fact that they demand access to precious resources such as oil reserves when economies/ these firms default on the loan grants, then it’s a true indication that the CEOs of these oil companies do not know the existence of EHMs and/or these EHMs use unclear paths to camouflage their activities and existence thus making it hard for recognition. They will look at this book as the revelation of their unending financial problems because of high cost of servicing loans and grants that come with intrinsic but latent consequences. If they decide to look at this book as an insight of new opportunities, they might decide to cut the dependence on loans extended with an infrastructural motive and/or cut the supply of their output to the countries associated with EHMs. Question3: How does patriotism and religion allow â€Å"them† to get away with activities described in the book? First, they extend grants in go od favor to either governments or financial institutions in form of development assistance in which they later control the operations of the grant. For instance, when they give grants in form of loans to

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Nude Woman Essay Example for Free

Nude Woman Essay Nude woman, formally known as the Venus of Willendorf is a sculpture of a female figure. It’s only 11. 1cm tall and was made from a special oolitic limestone that isn’t commonly found in the Paleolithic archeological sites of Willendorf, Austria. Similar figurines have been collected from these sites. Archaeologists’ believe that it was created between 26000 and 20000 BCE and belongs to the Gravettian culture. It was first discovered in 1908 by archaeologist Josef Szombathy, after which many similar figurines were discovered which are collectively known as the Venus figurines. (Kohen, 1946) The Venus of Willendorf can be taken as a realistic representation of an overweight woman or a perhaps a pregnant one. The figurine shows a very fat belly and buttocks. Her vulva is also clearly pronounced and shows no public hair. Her breasts are also shown to be exaggerated but don’t show any nipples. She has no visible face and her tiny forearms are folded on the upper parts of her breasts. She seems to have braided hair, or might be wearing a headdress of some sort. She seems to suggest to be looking down and doesn’t have any feet. (Kohen, 1946) If we take a closer look at the features that are defined in the sculpture, we’ll find that she is a fertility idol. Her pronounced breasts and vulva are clear indication of the fertility. Furthermore, her huge belly (possibly due to pregnancy) also suggests a strong connection to fertility. There has been some confusion regarding her not having any feet. I believe that she was made to be held in the hand. If look at the image, we will see that the hands clearly rest on the best of Venus, making it a perhaps sensuous object of that time. Reference Kohen, M. (1946). The Venus of Willendorf. Am. Imago, 3:49-60.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Political And Econimical C :: essays research papers

The Political and Economical Causes of the American Revolution The revolution began after many years of unrest between England and the American colonies. England's taxes, tariffs and new acts, imposed greatly upon the new American people. Large tariffs were placed on non British imports. British goods were more expensive, but they did not carry the high taxes that were imposed on foreign goods so they seemed economical. However British goods were of a lower quality than the foreign goods which made them difficult to sell. Unfortunately the American people depended on England and other nations for all modern commodities because they had not yet set up factories to manufacture their own. The English took advantage of this fact in every way possible. It was their thirst for political power and domination over the American economy that sealed their fate. England passed many acts to entice the Americans into buying their goods. One of the first to be passed was the Molasses Act of 1733. This act stated that molasses coming from the French or Dutch sugar islands was to have on it a six pence tariff per gallon. Instead of encouraging people to buy British molasses this act bred dishonesty. Merchants, who distilled the molasses to make rum, claimed that the British suppliers could not meet their needs. The merchants then began bribing the customs agents to wave the tariffs. Many agents pocketed extra money that way. A man by the name of Grenville observed this and created an act, The Revenue Act, which was successful with Parliament. This act stated that the tax on molasses would decrease to a mere three pence tariff per gallon of molasses. After the instatement of this act Grenville put an end to the bribes. The next act was the Currency Act of 1764. This act stopped the colonies from manufacturing their own money for trade with the British. This act was followed by the Quartering Act of 1765. The Quartering Act forced colonies to provide troupes stationed in their area with housing accommodations. This imposed greatly on the people, soldiers stayed for months and with an extra mouth to feed and little financial aid times became rough. The Stamp Act, passed in 1765 was one of the "straws that broke the camels back". This act required that such documents as college diplomas, dice, legal documents, customs papers, playing cards, almanacs, and newspapers had to have a special government stamp that showed that they had been properly taxed.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

“How Does Boey Kim Cheng Powerfully Convey His Attitude to the Planners in the Poem?” Essay

The Planners is a poem where Boey Kim Cheng describes how the planners effect the nature in a negative way. He talks about how every single thing is constructed to the point of perfection, where seeming human is a mistake. History is erased to make way for buildings made of glass and steel. Boey Kim Cheng portrays his distaste and disapproval of the planners in the poem and uses an accusatory tone to point out how they’re craving and planning for perfection. And this is shown in the first three lines of the second stanze where the poet writes â€Å"They erase the flaws, the blemishes of the past, knock off useless blocs with dental dexterity.† Their objectives of erasing the imperfections of the past is unnatural. As the mistakes we’ve made in history make us what we are today, and our imperfections are what makes us human. The use of the word ‘blemishes’ conveys something negative. Blemishes are something you usually have on your body, something people vehemently try to get rid off by using countless methods to seem attractive to another. The use of the phrase â€Å"useless blocks† is almost offensive because who are the planners to decide which parts of our history, our past are of no use? The second stanza uses and extended metaphor for the country described in the poem with teeth, words such as ‘dental dexterity’, ‘shining teeth’, ‘anaesthesia’, ‘piling’ and ‘drilling’ are used. Here, the Planners obsession with perfection is emphasized, flaws are erased, useless parts (useless teeth) are knocked off, even the ‘blemishes of the past’. The Planners here are even trying to perfect their imperfect past, a near impossible feat. ‘All gaps are plugged with gleaming gold’, wealth and prosperity is used to cover up imperfections of the country, and it is made to be perfect in every way possible, wearing ‘perfect rows of shining teeth’. However, even if everything of the present is perfect, they will not stop, even trying to alter their history.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Power in Sociology Essay

Sociology is a study of the development, structure, and functioning of human society. Sociology also studies the sophisticated connection between human behavior and individual life changes. Sociology examines by the way of social structure such as various social institutions that affect human attitudes, organizations and social categories. However, in the subject of Sociology of Work, it has combined sociology with work to improve the human behavior in the organization. According to Grint (2005), â€Å"Work occupies a substantial proportion of most people’s lives and has often been taken as a symbol of personal value†. He perceived that work will affect an activity that transforms nature which could be undertaken in social circumstance. However, power is the main topic to discuss in this essay. Power is the major explanation to the study of social society. According to J. G. March (1966 cited in Shafritz, Ott & Jang, 2005), it is not even related to organization and also among the community of decision making, business behavior, and small discussion. Meanwhile, power is not only used in the organization but theoretical able to apply in the other circumstances. However, the discussion in this essay will be critically evaluate the power that is used by those top level of the organization to control and possess to those lower level in the hierarchy. Coercive power is one of the powers that will be discussed in the argument, follow by social power and also legitimate power. This essay will include some of the theories by Weber and Marx to support the discussion of power. Bureaucracy means the top of the management holds the coordination and possession of the hierarchy and who devised a system that includes the rule and regulation to restrict the lower level subordinate in order to achieve organization goals, (Grint 2005). In the theory of Bureaucracy by Max Weber, he perceived that there are possess and control towards the lower level subordinate by the top in the organization. Weber has conceptualized of authority on bureaucracy by the sense of legitimate power and it will be the center of the organization’s processes. Weber also emphasizes rationalization process that regard to work organization and also able to improve development of technological and scientific thinking. This process would remind the employees to use the most appropriate way to achieve task base on the procedures and the formalize roles. Besides, according to Shafritz, Ott & Jang (2005), â€Å"The principle of office hierarchy and the level of graded authority mean a firm ly ordered system of super and sub-ordination in which there is a supervision of the lower office by the higher ones†. It means that the hierarchy and the level of an organization had their own system of authority to supervision the employees by the top of the management. Capitalism is devised by a German philosopher named Karl Marx. It is related to the industrial sociology and labor process. Marx had mentioned that industrial society had to be compared with agrarian society and the success of human freedom eventually, but the main reason of the social formation was only caused by the capitalist pattern and not the industrial process. Marx had emphasized that capitalism is more important than industrialism because it is the only capitalism. He also argued that â€Å"human species is different from all other animal species, not because of its consciousness but because it alone produces its own means of subsistence† (Grint 2005). On the other hand, alienation and exploitation still an important part of the capitalism. The impact on Marx’s theory in the modern industrial had strictly been use in the labor process. This impact had developed a perspective with the employment relations and employee behavior in the work design and also the organization. Alienation is the relationship between human expression and labor changes, and not using labor to fulfill their needs. Marx also stated that worker are alienates from their labor because it is no longer belong to the worker, but rather to the capitalist. In the system of capitalist, the minority owns the production, where the labor power is only owned by majority (Grint, 2005). Thus, the profit of production is through a commodity market and this is called alienation of production. Exploitation is a social relation on which capitalism is built. Worker pays less of wages than what they produce. It means that the worker gets a 10 dollars wages a day, he/she must produce more than 10 dollars a day worth of value. As we know, power mostly uses to control the hierarchy by the top of the management in an organization. Power in an organization has really big skill, whoever having the higher position in the organization will obtain the possession authority to control the entire organization. According to Giddens (1979 cited in Grint 2005), he argued that too many power which had been used at the same time would cause the least of the result eventually. It means that if the organization had too many of work relationship, it would be more complicated and uncontrollable by the management. However, coercive power is one of the powers that always uses by an organization. This power generally uses in some â€Å"low trust† organization to possess their worker and employees. Due to that, coercive power is often used by the top level to direct control the lower ones. Coercive power tends to be highly prescribed procedures which the workers are ordered to follow step by step of the job. Workers are in close supervision and under surveillance by the top level along the working period. Therefore, low commitment and low trust culture would be integrated into the coercive power regulated organization. Not even that, a tightly bureaucratic structure and culture will infuse in this coercive organization. Bureaucracy management is slightly similar to coercive powers which both are using force and impersonal forces to regulate the organization. Moreover, the internalization of an organization would be affected directly to the performance and productivity of an organization. I n other words, social power means internalization; basically it is a central element in analyzing human society and the way it is organized. Based on organization point of view, the strength of social power is defined as the potential ability of A to influence to B in the organization. According to French and Raven (1959 cited in Shafritz, Ott & Jang, 2005), power of a person is measurable by the influence ability although he may choose to use lesser than it. Due to that, internalization and social power are mostly the same, they are both study about process of acceptance of a set of norms and values established by people or group which are influential to the individual through the process of socialization. However, legitimate powers occur when a leader is being selected to an authority position. It means that the leader with legitimate power has the authority to issue order which they in turn have an obligation to accept. According to French and Raven (1959 cited in Shafritz, Ott & Jang, 2005), they said that the speculation and investigation about social specified behavior has been considerable, which is particularly pr escribed to give a position. People with legitimate power are usually involved in certain title or position. The impact of this legitimate power could affect the whole organization. At the higher hierarchy management person, such as manager and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), they are the main person who makes decision in the whole organization. In term of leadership, the top management would use legitimate power to force the employee to do anything they want and complete the task. But, the down-line employees could reject the forces by their up-line manager. According to Linton (1945 cited in Shafritz, Ott & Jang, 2005), the differences of the group norm are pursuant from whether they are alternative, culture and specialties. As far as concerned, Marx and Weber both have interpret the same meaning related to enforcement in the organization. In the above discussion, Weber has conceptualized of authority on bureaucracy by the sense of legitimate power. Which is means bureaucracy and legitimate power are similar concept of management way for a organization. He also devised that there are possess and control towards the lower level subordinate by the top in the organization. Legitimate power used by some of the organization to regulated their employee. The organization structure and performance will be improve and also increase productivity. In a legitimate organization, the top management has the authority to control the lower ones. However, coercive power also same as the legitimate power use manage the hierarchy in an organization. Coercive power is suitable to use in industrial base organization to supervise the worker since there is â€Å"low trust† structure in the organization. Both of these powers are slightly similar to bureaucracy management that uses to dominate the lower level employees in an organization. For example, Just in Time system (JIT) able to improve behavior of the worker and power capacity. JIT is mainly use by industrial sector in Japan which is produce just in time for them to use. JIT is a simple production method for manufacturing. It is to produce and deliver the product at once it is finished to be sold which is also called just in time to be sold. Lastly, there is another power relate to hierarchy management from top to lower level. Social power as we know as internalization of an organization, it is a study of someone’s influential to individual through the process of socialization. Social power is much more important for the hierarchy management . This power would be need more skill and knowledge when use to apply on employees. Top management need to know how to influence the lower ones to change their mindset. The worker will perform better and efficacy when their mindset is just toward the organization. Total Quality Management (TQM), the system that use in many organization since 1980s. In this case study of TQM, they had question toward power that to be capability of individual or group. They research on the structure and inter-personal characteristics within the bank division and branches that under same organization. From analysis of this case study, the power relation not only apparent in social power but also in coercive and political power. In conclusion, the power that discuss above which use to improve hierarchy management and that able to develop the human behavior in the organization. Power is the major explanation to study if social society. The three powers that had discussed in the above paragraph include coercive, legitimate and social power. All of these powers have enough use to handle the hierarchy management in the organization. However, coercive and legitimate power is more toward impersonal and forces way of management. Top management can use social power to influence their employees to work and change their mind of thinking in term any affection in the organization.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Shakespeare Research Paper Topics and Ideas

Shakespeare Research Paper Topics and Ideas It is likely that you will need to write an essay or research paper about William Shakespeare at some point during your studying since the significance of his impact on literature is undoubted. It is also likely that youre going to face difficulties while reading Shakespeare’s creations because there is a centuries-gap between you; the spoken and literary language was way different back then, which makes it hard to comprehend. However, there are myriads of studies that explore almost every part of his writings and ought to help you complete your assignment. Nevertheless, it might be hard for you to pick the right topic to start with. In fact, you can write about any subject that you are interested in, be it racism, feminism, gender issues, literary or rhetorical devices, genres of literature, templates of stories and narration, symbolism, and many others, since Shakespeare’s creations include all issues mentioned above. While working on any of these topics, keep in mind that a research paper requires a thorough study of the subject and references to credible sources. Topics: 1. Shakespeare’s Environmental Imagery In his works, Shakespeare uses plenty of descriptive details, many of which convey an important message and are essential to the plot. For instance, in â€Å"A Midsummer Night’s Dream,† the imagery of the environment, particularly of the Moon, plays a vital role in building the story and dialogs between the characters. Try to find parts where a description of a surrounding is important to understanding a specific scene. 2. Shakespeare as the Subject of Gender Discourse Shakespeare’s works played a significant role in understanding the mentality of Renaissance society. The author is known for creating outstanding female characters and showing their conflicts with the culture they live in. Describe how important is the contribution of Shakespeare to the gender discourse, taking a particular work or works as examples. 3. Cross-Gender Interference Gender interference occurs when a character possesses both masculine and feminine qualities in verbal behavior. If you want to pick this topic for your research, then it is essential to consider existing gender language stereotypes. In your paper, you can focus on the character of Titania and the changes in her communicative behavior, which happen during the story. 4. Gender Roles Differentiation While the previous topic discusses the fusion of gender roles, gender differentiation implies that there is a strict division between the personalities of female and male characters. Your paper can examine the differentiation of gender roles of Demetrius and Helena from â€Å"A Midsummer Nights Dream.† Describe how their images correspond to the stereotypes of the Renaissance period. 5. The Danger of Gender The setting of â€Å"Othello† depicts women not only as man’s possession but also as the holders of their reputation. Woman’s infidelity was considered a shame for a man since it was equivalent to unacceptable disobedience and contrariness. Consider how has this fact led to the well-known ending of the â€Å"Othello† story, provide examples from the play. 6. The Theme of Marriage In â€Å"Othello,† Shakespeare depicted that unmarried daughters are no more than a property of their fathers. It is especially vivid on an example of Desdemona and her father Brabantio. During the story, when Desdemona secretly marries Othello, her father feels like he was robbed since his property was stolen. Thus, you can describe the mentality concerning marriage in â€Å"Othello,† and how it differs from the perception of your culture. 7. The Theme of Racism Racism is another controversial topic depicted in â€Å"Othello.† Brabantio perceived Desdemona’s and Othello’s union as something unnatural and resulted from witchcraft since from his old-fashioned point of view, interracial relationships are forbidden. In your research paper, you can examine these racial issues that were shown in â€Å"Othello,† and correlate them to past or modern realities. 8. The Theme of Feminism in â€Å"Othello† Although there are a few female characters in â€Å"Othello,† Shakespeare provides them with unique and sometimes even rebellious personalities. Give due attention to each of the female characters, describe their behavior and provide textual evidence. Try to discover which one of them resembles the image of a modern feminist. 9. Melodrama and Shakespeare Shakespeare’s creations had a significant impact on the development of the melodrama genre. For instance, the theme of forbidden but strong love between two people from fighting clans, families, or countries, which originally was shown in â€Å"Romeo and Juliet,† is recurring in the modern literature. Strive to notice such themes in literature or cinematography and compare it to Shakespeare’s text. 10. Tragedy in Shakespeare’s Plays Shakespeare’s works are famous for their unexpected and often tragic endings. In your paper, discuss the unique features of the Shakespearian tragedy that distinguishes it from other works of this genre. For this assignment, it is critically important to refer to works of credible researchers and provide textual pieces of evidence, citing them according to the required formatting style. 11. Comedy in Shakespeare’s Plays Not only do Shakespeare’s texts have bitter stories, but they also do not lack the humorous component. For instance, in â€Å"A Midsummer Nights Dream,† he jokingly refers to Queen Elizabeth I, also known as The Virgin Queen. Thus, a humorous component of his texts can concern even out-of-the-plot events. Try to examine and discuss such parts, and support your claims with pieces of evidence. 12. Historic Events in Shakespearean Literature In his creations, Shakespeare quite often refers to real historical events and uses them as a basis for a plot or simply as a character’s feature. For this topic, you should examine some of his famous works and make a thorough research of a chosen subject. 13. External Impact on Shakespeare Shakespeare’s works were influenced by the time in which the author lived and by events that occurred back then. For this assignment, it is important to attentively study the biography of the English playwright and research some corresponding academic literature. You can choose, for instance, to describe the impact of political events on Shakespeare’s oeuvre. 14. Revolution in Literature As one of the truly outstanding figures in world literature, Shakespeare made a significant contribution to its development. For this topic, you should examine how his works influenced, changed, or even revolutionized the situation in the literary world. Keep in mind, however, that your claims should be backed up with opinions of credible researchers. 15. Shakespeare’s Style of Writing Shakespeare was the founder of myriads of literary devices, which writers still use nowadays. For insistence, in contrast to his contemporaries, who used stock characters in their creations, Shakespeare focused on the depth of characters’ personalities, making them look real and controversial. You can build your research paper on describing similar literary devices and finding their equivalents in modern literature. 16. Recurring Themes in Shakespeare’s Sonnets There are over 150 sonnets created by Shakespeare, and many of them have recurring themes or main ideas. For this topic, you should pick several sonnets that you consider to be similar by poetic meaning, and try to defend your position, supporting it with scholarly sources. 17. Use of Rhetorical Devices The use of rhetoric devices defines the persuasiveness of a literary work and emotional reaction from it. Among the most used tools in Shakespearian literature are similes, metaphors, and parallelism. In your research paper, you can examine a rhetoric component of his work or works, and explain how efficiently or inefficiently it was implemented. 18. The Symbolism of Shakespearian Literature It is common to literature when one feature in the text (statement) actually represents something else, and many authors tend to implement abstract ideas in their writings. In your paper, try to track such symbolism in Shakespeare’s work or works. Explain how the understanding of this symbolism adds to the perception of the writing overall. 19. The Theme of Revenge Talking about Shakespeare, it is also necessary to mention â€Å"Hamlet,† one of his most famous and recognized creations. There are numerous researches focused on this writing, and you can just pick one of them and strive to add something new. For instance, you can examine the theme of revenge and hesitations of the main character, depicted in â€Å"Hamlet.† 20. Educational Value of Shakespeare’s Oeuvre Since Shakespearean literature is covered in curriculum of almost every educational institution, you can build your research paper on explaining the reasons of why Shakespeare’s works are either vital for education or overestimated. However, remember that this is not merely a reflection paper, which means that it also needs you to do research and refer opinions of scholars. Conclusion To sum up, William Shakespeare was a truly outstanding author since there are hundreds of thousands of studies devoted to his works and many more that are conducted now. With the help of the mentioned-above topics, your research paper can carry on this academic race, and maybe you will be the one to reveal something new about Shakespeare’s oeuvre.