Using relevant examples discuss the issues relating to Climate Change Essay

Using relevant examples discuss the issues relating to Climate Change in a Global Context - Essay Example mit greenhouse gases that are responsible for causing the destruction of the ozone layer thus global warming that causes the gradual changes in the climate. Research statistics and evidence by climate experts clearly show that there has been a marked change in the composition and amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, which currently stands at 390ppm and even higher levels as recorded at 400ppm at Mauna Loa, Hawaii as at May 2013. Additionally, scientific research has indicated that the decade covering the period between the years 2000 and 2010 was recorded as the hottest with 2005 and 2010 being the warmest in temperatures (Giese, 2011). The United Nations body in charge of addressing of matters to do with climate change, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has equally stated that climate change is likely to have serious effect on the climate of the world in a global context affecting both the life of animals including humans and plants. Closely related to the matter of climate change is global warming which is the average increase in temperature of both the earth and the ocean and is continuously on the increase due to the effects of the climate change. Since the early 1900s, the average temperature of the earths and oceans has risen by averages well over temperatures of 0.8Â °C, and this is likely to increase in the coming years due to the sustained activities of human beings that cause effects associated with climate change. Further, the effects associated with climate change and global warming are likely to cause an increase of temperatures between the ranges of 1.8Â °C and 4Â °C which may rise to between 1.1Â °C and 6.4Â °C unless efforts are made in order to bring the matter of climate change under control (Harris and Roach, 2007). The same scientific research also indicate that due to effects associated with climate change, the level of the sea is likely to rise by a figure of between 28cm to 43 cm while some large water bodies such as the

Effective Teaching Essay Example for Free

Effective Teaching Essay One of the professions that could be interesting on one side yet challenging on the other side is the teaching profession. Many people see teaching as an enterprise where people who are knowledgeable in a field of study transmit what they know to others who know little about that field of study. Generally, this is a misconception as this limits teaching to the content and does not consider actual learning. In the real sense, teaching is all encompassing as it deals with what is being taught, how it is being taught and the entire process of knowledge acquisition. As a teacher or an instructor, one must apply the right methods in disseminating information. There are different instructional methods that work for different set of people. Personally, I would not say that one is better than the other because I believe that all these instructional methods work, depending on the targeted students/participants and how the instructor or teacher can effectively use them. To speak on the whole, teaching is about imparting knowledge or skill and no matter the instructional method you use, the most important thing is that knowledge is being passed across the right way. Therefore, as an instructor, one must understand the student’s need and identify/develop specific methods in order to create an atmosphere that is conducive for learning and that allows the impartation of knowledge and skill. In my years of teaching and instructing, I have come to discover some methods that have worked for me. I have come to identify these instructional methods as vital and thus applied it in my style of teaching. As a teacher, I have come to identify withy these principles as effective and vital to the teaching profession. Although there are many principles that I have incorporated in my style of teaching, I would discuss the ones that I consider the most vital in the following paragraphs. Personally, I am of the notion that effective teaching should take a student centered approach where focus shifts from the instructor to the student. In my classes, I create an atmosphere where the students feel at home and are more involved in the learning process. I have discovered that this helps in the building of their cognitive abilities. I make sure that I do not present myself as the boss in the class, rather I encourage them to participate and allow them make decisions on the pace we go and what is studied. Topics that are treated in class are chosen according to the student’s needs and perceptions. I have monitored the effect that this has on the overall learning process and I have discovered that the students develop better problem solving skills. Furthermore, as a follow-up to the above method, I ensure that students participate more in the learning process. I am able to achieve this by seeking for their opinion about a topic in the start of each class. Apart from this, sometimes I initiate a debate in the class and play the role of an umpire as I hear their opinions. I then pick out relevant points from what they have said and use it as a starting point in introducing the topic to the class. I stipulate it in the class syllabus that class participation will be graded at the end of the course and this will add up to the points. In addition to this, I sometimes break the students into small groups and organize a mini class competition. This has worked greatly as it gives me an insight into their idea about the topic and thus I can be able to correct their misconceptions based on what I have heard them say. This encourages collaborative and group learning and this creates a warm atmosphere in the class. Another thing I do in my class is that I build a sense of curiosity in the students. This gives them the desire to learn more and look forward to what would be taught in the next class. At the end of each class, I give rhetorical questions that are open ended in nature, such that it builds suspense in them and makes them want to know the answers to the questions I give. I also ask them thought provoking questions and sometimes make a captivating statement about what will be introduced in the next class As a teacher, I have recognized that fact that there are different types of students. Some are naturally want to learn and are always ready to explore new possibilities. However, as this is true of some students, some other students are passive learners. When I spot this, a method I use is supporting these types of students to leave their comfort zones and create new possibilities for themselves. I achieve this by guiding their thoughts and making them participate in class. Some students are rather timid because they are scared of contributing the wrong thing in class. This makes them stay in their comfort zones and they seldom participate in class. In such a case I strive to build the confidence of such students and aid them in their thinking process by providing clues for them to hit the right ideas. This method helps them to develop confidence in themselves and come out of their shells to participate in class. In my years of teaching, I have seen students who are timid transform to become major contributors in class. Finally, I have discovered that learning requires a settled mind. Therefore I make sure that I do not becloud the students only with academic work. I make sure that I teach these students how to be successful in life as well as in school. I make them know that I am concerned about them and their welfare but I do not involve myself directly in their affairs. I always give my students a listening ear and operate an open door policy where they can relate better with me. Summarily, teaching could be challenging but there is a joy that comes from the fact that I am imparting knowledge to them. The fulfillment of a teacher or an instructor is exemplified in the good performance of his/her students. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my students perform well and develop mastery in the topics which I have taught them. Reference: Edwards, R. (2001). â€Å"Meeting individual learner needs: power, subject, subjection†. In C. Paechter, M. Preedy, D. Scott, and J. Soler (Eds. ), Knowledge, Power and Learning. London: SAGE.

Middle Ages :: essays research papers fc

The Christian Crusades Positively Impacted the East and the West Even though countless numbers of people died during the Christian Crusades, there were many positive effects for both the East and the West. After the Crusades halted, various trade routes opened up between Eastern and Western cities. Also, the Muslims developed new military strategies and techniques during the fights with the Europeans, and they united themselves against one cause, producing a stronger religious nation (Encyclopà ¦dia Britannica, 1993). Numerous effects of the Christian Crusades in the Middle East had a positive outcome. In John Child's book, The Crusades, he quotes J. Kerr as claiming that the "most obvious result of the crusades" was a growth in "trade with the east". According to a 1996 AP article printed in the Jerusalem Post, the English word "sugar" comes from the Arabic "sukkar", and "scallion" comes from "Ascalon", a Philistine city. Trade extended from England to the Black Sea, going through the ports of Beirut, Acre and Alexandria. After the loss of Acre in 1291, Cyprus, Rhodes and Crete were the three Mediterranean islands that composed some of the main crusader trading centers. From these three islands it was possible to control goods' ships traveling to and from the Middle East (Child, 1994). These trade routes generated a beneficial contact between the cultures of East and West. Many merchants from the cities of Venice and Genoa settled in Cyprus and Crete. From the Muslims these merchants bought spices, sugar, cloth and cotton. Other merchants from Sicily and Aragorn traded for Tunisian gold, and Algerian wool and animal skins. Popular goods traded from the Middle East were sugar, melons, cotton, ultramarine dye and damask cloth. Although the Pope tried to stop merchants from trading with the Muslims, he had to repeal his embargo in 1344. Though most of the traded goods came from the Middle East, the com bined efforts from both East and West brought about many inventions, such as windmills, compasses, gunpowder and clocks. Figure 1 This trade between East and West caused prosperity among the people. Child states in his book that the merchants made "a lot of money" out of the trade with the Muslim people. After the Crusades had terminated, these merchants were able to prosper from trade between Europe and the Middle East. Outlined in Figure 1 are some trade routes utilized after the Crusades. During the Crusades, the Muslims used weaponry that the Franks were not familiar with.

What is sexting? Essay

In this age of technology and information, internet and mobile technology devices dominate our society (Burton, L, 2012, p.1), with over 90% of Australians aged 15-17 owning mobile phones (Australian Communications and Media Authority, 2010, â‚ ±4). Today’s teens are also overexposed to sexual content in many aspects of the media (Burton, L, 2012). This highly sexualised digital culture has transformed the way youth relate to one other (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). One phenomenon that has emerged from the increased accessibility of these devices and sexual exposure is the practice of ‘sexting’ (Society Pages, 2013, â‚ ±1). The term ‘sexting’ derives from merging the words ‘texting’ and ‘sex’ and â€Å"refers to the sending of sexually provocative material from modern communications devices† (Forde, L. & Hardley, S., 2011). ‘Sexting’ is currently receiving mass media attention (Walker, S., Sanci, L., & Temple-Smith, M., 2011). It is recognised as one of latest youth phenomena in popular culture (Funnell, N, 2012). Although the sharing of sexually explicit material is not a new concept, it has become simpler with the internet (Walker, S., Sanci, L., & Temple-Smith, M., 2011). Shared images â€Å"become part of a young person’s digital footprint, which may last forever and have the potential to damage future career prospects or relationships† (NSW Government, 2008, â‚ ±3.). The prevalence of sexting A national survey conducted in 2010 by the organisation Understanding Teenagers found that 59% of teenagers have electronically transmitted sexually suggestive material (Understanding Teenagers, 2010, â‚ ±3). In another survey conducted by the popular teen girl magazine Girlfriend found that 40% of 558 participants had been involved in sexting (Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee Sexting Inquiry (PVLRCSI), 2012). In Queensland alone, 459 sexting offences were reported in 2011 (PVLRCSI, 2012) and in Western Australia sexting offences have tripled in number from 2009 to 2011 (PVLRCSI, 2012). Research by American psychologist Andrew Smiler found various causes that attribute to sexting: to demonstrate commitment in a relationship, to impress friends, to harass or bully, or as a dare. According to an article in the Teacher Learning Network journal, In popular culture, sexting is seen as a young person’s phenomenon: mobile phones, raunch culture, a lack of inhibition, a lack of respect even a lack of morals are seen by many as the perfect storm that has created the sexting phenomenon.(Funnell, N, 2012). Looking at sexting through the lens of Sociological Theory Feminist Theory Sexting is recognised as a gender related issue because young girls feel pressure from the over-sexualised media to present themselves as sexually desirable. Similarly, young men have been conditioned to expect this behaviour. Sexting has created a mechanism for young people to actualize these expectations (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). It is understood that young girls are at greater risk of adverse effects than young men by this behaviour (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). Experts go as far as to claim â€Å"†¦the possibility of a link between sexting and gendered sexual violence targeting women† (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). Woman’s advocate, writer and speaker Melinda Tankard- Reist discusses in her DVD Too Sexy Too Soon that our society tells young girls their primary value is being on display sexually. Our society has created a culture where sexualisation of young girl is regarded as normal (Tutorial DVD). Jean Kilbourne and Diane Levin, authors of Sexy So Soon, argue: Boys are surrounded by media messages that encourage them to judge their female peers based on how they look, often to view them with contempt, and to expect sexual subservience from them (Burton, L., 2012). An interesting anecdote on the evolution of the women’s liberation movement from feminist Anne Manne reads: The relationship between women’s liberation and the new sexual freedom was never an uncomplicated one. The two movements have often been in tension. †¦ Jostling alongside welcome signs of women’s new-found status, and a more relaxed, tolerant, open and liberal society on sexual matters, many of the contours of the new sexual liberalism remain shaped by male dominance (as cited by Burton, L, 2012). Ms Manne (as cited in Butron, L, 2012) goes on to say that â€Å"along the way we  allowed ‘sexual liberation’ to be dictated to by pornography†. This view appears to be supported by many females reported in our media today. In the research paper Underage and Over- exposed Burton (2012) interviewed a young girl who said, Look at most girls’ role models. Most celebrities are just out there at parties, getting drunk and having sex with everyone. Paris Hilton – as much as she is a bad role model to us, she is always in the newspapers and stuff like that so younger generations will be influenced by he. There are also the recent antics of child star Miley Cyrus and her almost pornographic performances at the VMA Music awards in September and her raunchy new film clip for hit single Wrecking Ball. Symbolic Interaction Theory  Symbolic interactionists focus on how communication is central to all human interaction and how these interactions create society (Carl, J & Baker, S, 2011). This theory would view sexting as youth exercising their power to create society. These youth are developing their own standards of what is normal and acceptable behaviour (Carl, J & Baker, S, 2011). Youth consider sexting an adult or media-generated concept (University of New South Wales, 2013, p.1). Youth do not call this activity sexting, but refer to such behaviour as taking noodz, naked selfies, dirty pics or sexy pics (The University of Melbourne, 2012). However, although this creativity and individualism may be acceptable within subgroups, such as the youth subculture, on a macro level it often conflicts with the norm (The University of Melbourne, 2012). Symbolic Interactionist Chafetz argues that men and woman communicate differently: men tend to dominate conversation and woman follow arbitrary rules that men impose. She says â€Å"Women use body language in ways that weaken their ability to assert themselves, this makes them appear less powerful than their male counterparts† (Chafetz, 1997 as cited in Carl & Hillman, 2011 p. 86). Men and woman often act in a default manner associated with stereotyped gender roles. For example, woman use body language and gestures, or in this case nude images, whereas men tend to be more direct displaying their masculinity  by demanding these pictures from their female counterparts (Carl & Hillman, 2011). Sexting is a good example of the manifestation of how an individual’s definition of gender develops from everyday interactions (Chafetz 1997 as cited in Carl & Hillman, 2011). In today’s society, we are flooded with sexually explicit material and people appear desensitised. Psychologist Andrew Smiler stated A porn aesthetic pervades culture – in fashion, music, entertainment and behaviour. This is evident in the billboards, music videos and designer stores that shape the desires and imaginations of a younger and younger demographic. It is not just that culture has become more sexualised. It is that the imagery of the pornographic erotic has shaped the sexualisation of culture. (Smiler, A as cited in Burton, L, 2012). Research conducted by Hewlett Packard found that what is communicated visually has more impact than any other form of communication. Their research supports the idea that visual communication can be more powerful than verbal communication, suggesting in many instances that people learn and retain information that is presented to them visually much better than that which is only provided verbally (Hewlett Parkard, 2004, â‚ ±1). Sexual images are everywhere, often without words, and are creating a whole new set of community values. These images are encouraging our young people’s sexual exploration and thus reinforcing the behaviour of sexting. Australian Institute researcher Flood stated that the â€Å"‘regular and frequent exposure to sexual content in mainstream media produces greater sexual knowledge and more liberal sexual attitudes among children and young people†. Although the media operate at the macro level their influence permeates through to a micro level, thus influencing the way individuals communicate. Symbolic interaction provides a useful explanation of how the sub-culture of sexting has developed. Effects of Sexting Social and Emotional Youth are readily involved in this activity but are naà ¯ve as to its consequences. According to Goodings and Everaardt (2010) as cited in of  the Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee Sexting Inquiry (PVLRCSI)), 2013 the â€Å"social ramifications can be the most damaging when it comes to sexting†. The case of Jessica Logan an 18 year old student in America demonstrates the dangers of sexting. The images she sent to her boyfriend were later distributed to hundreds of people and ultimately ended in her suicide (Forde, L. & Hardley, S., 2011). Although most cases are not as extreme as Jessica’s, the mass distribution of these images is common. There are many other detrimental physiological, emotional and social (Goodings and Everaardt (2010) as cited in the Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee Sexting Inquiry (2012). Sexting is a dangerous activity and unfortunately â€Å"the viral spread of these images and the associated shame have reportedly led to social, psychological and legal consequences for victims† (Katzman, 2010). Legal Owing to the rapidity of technological development, practices such as sexting are not adequately covered by Australian law. This is known as ‘cultural lag’(J, Carl, S Baker, Scott, Hillman & Larwrence, 2011). Young people who send and receive sexually explicit images may find themselves in serious trouble under various state and Commonwealth child pornography laws. One specific piece of legislation is Part 10.6 of the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995, which makes it â€Å"an offence to access, transmit, publish, possess, control, supply or obtain child pornography† (Forde, L. & Hardley, S., 2011). Furthermore in Queensland, those being convicted of child pornography may also be added to the Sex Offenders Register. Sexting also falls under the category of sexual harassment under S28A of the Commonwealth Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Forde, L. & Hardley, S, 2011). These laws are designed to protect children from the abuse of adults and many agree that they are ill suited to the issue of youth sexting each other (Forde, L. & Hardley, S, 2011). Those working with children would need to be aware that if they confiscate a data storage device containing such images, or if such images are stored on a school device, material they can also be charged (Forde, L. & Hardley, S, 2011). My Role As a youth worker I would be involved at a grassroots level in mentoring and supporting of youth involved in this practice. I would also want to be involved in sex education classes. According to experts it is vital to include youth’s opinions and ideas if effective solutions are to be found (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011, p.8). As a youth worker I need to facilitate this and make sure that youth are given this voice. Christian Youth Work Perspective Adolescence is a time of life where humans are forming their identity (PBS, 2011, â‚ ±1). Young people are searching for truth, purpose and belonging. Many youth do not have any authority in their life instructing them on how to build and maintain healthy relationships and therefore are more likely to be involved in risky relationships (Burton, L, 2012) Christian youth workers and chaplains have a great opportunity to be in schools educating youth on topics such as identity, purpose and healthy relationships. As a Christian youth worker I want youth to find their true identity in Christ and that they ultimately belong to him. This truth is the most empowering knowledge any human can have and it answers these questions of identity, truth and purpose. Christian Evaluation From a Christian perspective the act of sexting would be seen as sexually immoral behaviour and thus frowned upon because it would contain images that would be considered pornographic. There are countless references to such behaviour in the Bible to support this. In 1 Corinthians 6:18 Paul writes; Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies (NIV). Paul reiterates the sin of sexual immorality in 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7; It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable†¦ The Lord will punish all those who commit such sins, as we told you and warned you before. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life (NIV). The message version of Ephesians 5:1-4 provides an excellent example of how healthy relationships are important and without good understanding of them people fall into the trap of immoral behaviour. Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. Don’t allow love to turn into lust, setting off a downhill slide into sexual promiscuity, filthy practices, or bullying greed. Though some tongues just love the taste of gossip, those who follow Jesus have better uses for language than that. Don’t talk dirty or silly. That kind of talk doesn’t fit our style. Thanksgiving is our dialect. However, it is not the role of Christians to judge the youth involved in this behaviour, but to encourage them to change this behaviour because it is dangerous. The role of Church should be to promote healthy relationships and demonstrate Christ’s love. Recommendations A community approach is needed if sexting is to be effectively reduced. Parents and the education system need to work together with the youth in order to tackle this issue (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). The problem could be addressed through: 1. Sex education classes that include advice on (a) the development of healthy relationships, (b) the dangers of sexting and (c) sexual morality and self-image (PVLRCSI, 2012, p.8&9) and (Funnell, N, 2012). 2. Providing seminars for guidance officers, counsellors and chaplains in schools to assist them in addressing this issue with their students (PVLRCS, 2012). 3. Incorporating the voice of youth into the attempts to address the issue of sexting (Walker. S., Sanci, L. & Temple-Smith, M, 2011). 4. Schools providing education for parents on the issue of sexting. This should include, (a) the various consequences of sexting, (b) the legal ramifications and (c) how they can impose restrictions on technology more effectively (PVLRCS2012, 2012). 5. Providing a government community service announcement on this issue be, e.g. a television advertisement campaign. 6. Updating the law need to address sexting appropriately. 7. Conducting further research on the topic. Reference List Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). (2010) ‘Trends in media use by children and youth: Insights from the Kaiser Family Foundation’s Generation. Retrieved 22 August 2013 from, Burton, L. (2012). Underage and overexposed: Discussing pornography and raunch culture with students. Screen Education, Autumn No. 58, 58-70. Carl, J & Baker, S. (2011). Think Sociology. J.D. Baker, S. Baker, B. Robards, J. Scott, W. Hillman & G. Lawrence (Eds.) (pp.22-23). French Forrest NSW: Pearson Australia. Forde, L . & Hardley, V. (2011). Sexting: The legal implications. The National Education Magazine, June Edition, 56-59. Funnell, N. (2012). Sexting: Male and female – it’s on for young and old. Teachers Learning Network, 19 (2), 37-39. Hewlett Packard (2004). The power of visual communication [PDF file]. Retrieved 18 September 2013, from http://www.hp.com/large/ipg/assets/bus-solutions/power-of-visual-communication.pdf Katzman, D.K. (2010), ‘Sexting: Keeping teens safe and responsible in a technologically savvy world’. Paediatric Child Health, 15(1), 41-2. New South Wales (NSW) Government. (2008)Safe sexting: ‘No such thing’ information sheet for parents. Retrieved 23 August 2013 from, http//www.schools.nsw.edu.au. Parliament of Victoria Law Reform Committee on Sexting Inquiry. (2012). Sexting in Australia: The legal and social ramifications. Retrieved 22 August 2013, from ttp://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/images/stories/committees/lawrefrom/isexting/subs/S07_-_Salvation_Army_Oasis_Hunter.pdf PBS. (2011). Identity formation. Retrieved 7 September 2013, from http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/topic/adolescence/identity-formation Tankard-Reist, M (Tutorial DVD) The Society Pages. (2013). Youth, technology and the ‘problem’of sexting [PDF file]. Retrieved 22 August 2013, from http://thesocietypages.org/sociologylens/2013/04/20/young-people-technology-a

Does Patriotism Still Matter?

Does Patriotism still Matter? Ah! You ask me,† Does patriotism still matter? † Well of course patriotism still matters! When you think of all of the love you receive for yourself, shouldn’t you apply that similar love to your country? I could definitely dig out a few explanations. Well first of all, without patriotism we wouldn’t have peace or stability. A good supportive foundation wouldn’t hurt, but bring healing to our soldiers who risk their lives to sacrifice themselves for the love, or patriotism, for their country.Also, during a present war, without patriotism, what is left in this world to support! Pretty much everything that our world is revolving around is war. Lastly, the peace and stability for one’s country is provided by their citizens who show their true patriotism. Second of all, a country without patriotism is like a dog without an owner. When a pup is hungry, an owner’s duty is to feed it, right? Well it’s the sa me with a country, because when a country is empty for patriotism it’s our duty to feed it with patriotism! What kind of a country would it be without the symbol of patriotism?We would be a stray! On top of that, countries are supposed to be united! Patriotism keeps countries together like a family. Being patriotic helps us recollect those who have lost their lives battling and fighting for the rights we own today. Just think, â€Å"What if I had family who fought and lost their life fighting for me? † Think back in history, even during the civil war when to regions of the U. S. were bludgeoning each other for the right of freedom of slavery. One of the most famous Generals, Stonewall Jackson, was killed fighting for his region.Patriotism is what held him up to lead up to his death. He was confident and patriotism motivated him. Or what about Major General Howe who lost his life in the Battle of Bunker Hill? He also was physically and emotionally motivated by patriotis m. Okay, I think that I have specified my hypothesis. The answer to the question, is patriotism still important, is strictly, yes! Patriotism plays a major role in modern society and is one of the main components in our political office. All I know is, I love my country like hot fudge on ice cream!

LinkedIns Top Skills The Best Hard Soft Skills (and Jobs!) for 2018

LinkedIns Top Skills The Best Hard Soft Skills (and Jobs!) for 2018 Want to know the top skills for the 2018 job market and whether youre a match? Look no further than LinkedIns top skills list for 2018. No brainer: Computer stuff tops the chart for the third straight year with Cloud and Distributed Computing and  Statistical Analysis and Data Mining, in the #1 and #2 hottest hard skills, respectively. If youre a computer nerd, youre in luck. I found out something interesting today while talking to a fellow career coach, Ramon Santillan, Jr. He specializes in helping people on the autism and Aspergers scales, who have high levels of intelligence, get jobs at big tech and engineering firms. The skills in demand in the market might match well to some of their capabilities. Whats new on the 2018 top skills list is that LinkedIn has expanded into soft skills. Topping that list are Leadership and Communication, which for good reason are the personal attributes most in demand by employers today. One of my favorite places to increase both of those skills is the Wright Foundation for the Realization of Human Potential. Let me know if you want information about their trainings in leadership and social and emotional intelligence. LinkedIns List of Top Skills for 2018 Soft Skills Leadership: You may have heard that youre always leading. Its just a matter of toward what. Companies are looking for leaders who support and motivate the people around them, delegate vs. micromanage, assert themselves appropriately, and take swift action, all in service of organizational goals. Communication: Good communication includes such important skills as good use of language both in speech and in writing, speaking up when something needs to be discussed, following direction, asking the appropriate level of questions, following proper communication procedures, and more. Collaboration: Working with a team and having good give and take makes you a valued employee. Time Management: Meeting deadlines, being realistic about workload, and being able to prioritize projects are all essential to being a great team member. And so is communicating when things dont go as expected. Hard Skills I have less to say about the hard skills. They are all technology based and of tremendous importance for companies today, for obvious reasons. Heres a breakdown of whats hot and whats a little less hot as we head into 2018. Cloud and Distributed Computing: This skill has been #1 since it made its debut on the top 20 list in 2016. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining: Bumped out of the #1 spot when Cloud and Distributed Computing showed up, this skill has been holding at #2 for three years straight. Middleware and Integration Software: Has remained in the top 5 since 2015. Web Architecture and Development Framework: Steadily rising, but down one from the #3 spot this year. User Interface Design: This skill started at #14 in 2015, moved up to #10 in 2016, and remains at #5 for 2017 and 2018. Software Revision Control System: Welcome to the top 10! Data Presentation: In the top 10 for the last two years, this skill is up one from #8 to #7. SEO/SEM Marketing: Maybe people are losing faith in SEO, or figuring out how to do it themselves. This skill has dropped from the #4 and #5 spots it held in previous years. Mobile Development: Here I was thinking companies still needed people to develop apps. But mobile development has dropped steadily for the last three years, from #6 to #7 to #9 could this be the last year for this skill? Network and Information Security: Similar to Mobile Development, this one has been flirting with the #6 and higher spot for 3 years, but dropped this year. I cant believe there wont be a continuing strong need for this skill. LinkedIns List of Best Jobs for 2018 Want to know what jobs some of these hard and soft skills will get you? The list compiled by LinkedIn below includes positions with high median salaries, strong job openings, and year-over-year growth. The jobs are also projected to be most likely to lead to advancement within an organization. Engagement Lead Software Engineering Manager Customer Success Manager Solutions Architect Sales Director Engineering Manager Program Manager Product Manager Data Scientist Enterprise Account Manager Technical Program Manager Financial Analyst Data Engineer Frontend Engineer Site Reliability Engineer Finance Director Strategic Account Manager Pharmacist Hospitalist Medical Director For detail on each position, including median salary, career advancement rating, and the top skills for each, read LinkedIns Most Promising Jobs 2018. How do your hard skills and soft skills line up with the in-demand skills for 2018? If the hard skills diverge from yours, not to worry. There are plenty of jobs that dont require you do have computer skills beyond MS Office Suite. But the soft skills are important no matter what you do. If you know you could use substantial improvement in those areas, it might be time to take steps toward educating yourself! To view LinkedIns Top skills lists from previous years: The 25 Skills That Can Get You Hired in 2016 LinkedIn Unveils The Top Skills That Can Get You Hired In 2017 Is your LinkedIn profile getting views from hiring managers for the job youre seeking? If not, its time to get your LinkedIn profile in shape and make 2018 the year you stepped up your career.  Start with a  20-minute live review of your LinkedIn profile. If you decide to work with The Essay Expert via one of our more extensive LinkedIn profile writing services, well credit the price of your review!

Had Large Impact on Society Essays

Had Large Impact on Society Essays Had Large Impact on Society Essay Had Large Impact on Society Essay Is new and better technology being researched and developed to help improve human life. It seems that by the time you purchase the newest top of the line flat screen television, computer, car, etc. And get home theres already something newer, better and/or faster Just released to the public. Technology has changed the way we live our daily lives and will continue to evolve. During this paper I will discuss five different types of technology that I consider to be breakthrough and changed the way society lives in a positive manner. It is hard to pinpoint the exact date because of the different prototypes and first enervation versions but in the us and asss two companies IBM and Apple began producing desktop/personal computers to the public. The computer changed the way almost everything is done for the world. It made calculations, communication, storage for individuals and businesses faster, better, and more efficient. The evolution of the computer has come a long way since then, and has changed how everything Is done. It has made the phone and postal mall almost obsolete In certain cases, because It makes It faster and easier to complete certain tasks that would take much longer doing by the human brain and/or hands. The computer also made the typewriter obsolete with its ability to generate paperwork faster, cleaner, and easier to go back and edit. The second biggest technology breakthrough Id like to discuss is the internet. A government developed in the ass, which later was decided to benefit to the public changed everything including advancing the use of the computer even more. : One main reason the internet is a breakthrough is research. The internet is overloaded with useful information which is available at the click of a button. Students rarely need to visit a library anymore because all the Information can be obtained through search engine within seconds from the comfort of their home. It some cases a student even download a book to read rather than purchase or rent from the library which saves money and time. Businesses use features such as emails or electronic transactions to buy/sell products by the Internet making It easier for consumers and other businesses to do business. This allows for more revenue and faster turnaround for everyone. Email is used to communicate rather than by mail. What used to take days to come by posted mail now takes seconds. The internet can be used even for easier communication such as meetings via internet. Instead of traveling to do business or discuss matters with other people or businesses voices and live video feed can be used with computers and the internet at a moments notice. Now even with internet connections available wirelessly from practically anywhere it has become even that much more efficient and convenient. The third technology breakthrough for my paper Is the cell phone. The first mobile phone was Invented In the 1 cays which was nothing compared to what we consider a mobile cellular phone In 2009. The cell phone allows an Individual to be contacted at anytime and anywhere, signal permitting. Todays pricing, features, and quality of cell pones NAS mace teen Marlene pone almost out AT commission so to speak. Some people dont even bother having a home phone with the hustle and busy schedules people keep today. The cell phone can surf the internet at high speeds, email, display high quality video output, take photographs, record videos, store large size computer files, text message other cellular devices, instant messenger via internet connection, play video games and music, and fits in a pant pocket comfortably with no wires attached its no wonder why so many people have one. It even has made some computer features obsolete. All these features available virtually anywhere in the world from a small handheld portable device was never expected 20 years ago. Another technology breakthrough is the automotive GAPS. The automotive global positioning system has changed the automobile forever and the way transportation/ traveling is done forever. The release of the first automotive GAPS system was in the early asss which is said to be by Honda. The GAPS system is replacing the common map and websites such as Manifest. Current models allow users to plan a trip at he use of a touch screen device that has up to date maps. GAPS system can display travel time, distance, step by step directions, direct users with a computerized voice, warn of traffic patterns, accidents, construction, etc. ND provide alternate routes. This makes driving safer, faster, and gives a feeling of peace of mind. Drivers dont have to try and read a map while driving or get stuck in traffic ever again. The GAPS system now even comes standard some newer vehicles built into the center console with other features such as something simple as a CD player. GAPS systems are now also used by businesses as well and have helped a great de al. Businesses who are involved in automotive transportation or deliveries use GAPS systems to plan daily routes making them faster and more efficient. This makes it that much better for the buyer and seller. It also allows for improved fuel efficiency by shortening travel times. With the issues we have with oil/gas prices currently that can help make an impact on your average driver or a business. The final breakthrough in my opinion is the creation of the MR. machine. This machine invented in the asss by Dry. Damning changed the medical industry forever. This device has saved many lives and I personally have received the benefits of this machine. The MR. allows for a full internal scan of the human body with the use of magnets. It can catch early signs of diseases such as cancer or internal infections. Early detection of cancer using MR. machines has many lives and made the road to recovery much smoother for patients. If it wasnt for Mrs. I most likely would have lost my Uncle to lung cancer. The MR. caught early signs of cancer and allowed for plenty of time to correct the problem and prevent his early death. This is Just one of many of the benefits of an MR. machine.

How to use capital letters - Emphasis

How to use capital letters How to use capital letters Were often being asked about when to use capital letters. Why is it so confusing? The answer lies somewhere between what were used to seeing (beginning, as ever, with our school habits) and the seeming inconsistencies of best practice. As a general rule, capitals are for specific and formal; lower-case for unspecific and informal. Capital offence Avoid using all capital letters. Its very heavy on the eye; and the lack of differentiation in height and shape (compared with lower-case lettering) actually makes it more difficult to read. Also, the consensus particularly in the virtual world is that it appears as shouting, so youll come across as aggressive and alienate your reader. Initial capitals You might think the rules get murkier here. Certainly, it may come down to an issue of style within your workplace, but always bear in mind that its very easy to overdo these. Typically, use initial capitals for: proper nouns places, peoples names, company names Mr Jones, formerly of Emphasis Training Ltd, went to Swansea. official job titles Mr Jones new position was Chief Executive of Capital Placement. trade names or brands I like to have a cup of Ovaltine and read the Write Away e-bulletin on my Mac. But, generally, dont use them for: every first letter in a heading or sub-heading (check your company style on this one): its An exploration of capital letters, not An Exploration of Capital Letters compass points, unless they are part of a definable region/area/country Should we head north or north-east now? Im either moving to South Korea or the Middle East. Subsequent words (beyond the first) in a sign-off Yours sincerely Best regards Lots of love Clarifying apparent contradictions Sporadically sprinkling this or that word with a capital can lend undeserved import to certain concepts, which, in turn, implies a kind of inferiority in others. While we may be used to seeing Mum and Dad capitalised (or Doctor if we are one, President if we are Barack Obama and so on), that doesnt mean those words should always be capitalised. Where a noun stands in for a proper noun (like a name), it is capitalised; if not, it isnt. Hello Mother, hello Father. Is that my mother with your father? What are you doing, Mum? Job titles and ranks used in conjunction with the holders name are capitalised; if the title is used alone, they arent. Have you met Mr Jones, Chief Executive of Capital Placement? Yes, but Ive met many chief executives. Who is the president? Do you live under a rock? You must recognise President Obama. For governments, use lowercase unless youre referring to a particular administration. The Government announced the abolition of the 10p tax band. Representatives from governments across Europe were united in their disgust. Institutions and organisations will be capitalised when their name is used in full; on subsequent references to it, when the name is shortened, use lowercase. Ill have to refer you to the Central Committee of Capital Measures. What was the name of that committee? The exception to this rule is when the shortened reference word might be mistaken for a regular noun. The National Trust is fantastic. Yes, its the best kind of Trust. Have you heard of the African National Congress? Im well aware of that Congress. So, just remember with capitals: less is more. Exceptions that may seem inconsistent and confusing are only for clarity. If you have any more queries about capital letters or anything else leave a comment and well get back to you.

ELECTROPHORESIS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

ELECTROPHORESIS - Essay Example These are size, voltage, supporting media and buffer (electrolyte). Smaller molecules travel faster than larger molecules while high voltages cause faster migration than lower voltages. However, there is a limit to the voltage that can be used as very high voltages cause the gel to melt and affect resolution. Various solid supports have varying pore sizes and sieving properties thereby affecting the rate of mobility. The lower the strength of the gel the bigger the pore size and vice versa. The buffer, which is a function of pH, also affects mobility and separation. Therefore, the success of the procedure depends on the correct choice of buffer. There are two main forms of electrophoresis namely moving boundary electrophoresis and zonal methods (Holme and Peck 1998, p. 133). The moving boundary method uses a U-tube that contains the analyte in the lower portion of the U while the arms contain the buffer. An electric potential is directed to the buffer and the movement of the boundary with time matches the velocity of migration of the analyte. The most common application of the moving-boundary electrophoresis is during the investigation of the physical traits of molecules as well as in large preparative processes. Conversely, zonal techniques involve the application of the analyte on a large area of supporting medium. They are named according to the supporting medium used and include the various types of gel electrophoresis (agarose gel, SDS-PAGE etc), capillary electrophoresis, affinity electrophoresis, and immunoelectrophoresis (Gault and McClenaghan 2008, p. 169). They are often employed in the separation of proteins cont ained in serum and urine, haemoglobin, isoenzymes, and nucleic acids. Electrophoretic equipment may vary in appearance, but all of them retain a common basic design that includes a tank, supporting media, an electrolyte compartment, electrodes, a stable supply of voltage, and safety gadgets. A cover is often included to minimize

Policemen of the World Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Policemen of the World - Essay Example The following discussion shows how the U.S has been the Policemen of the World in the past. The U.S created a foreign policy after the Civil War. This policy dictates its relations with other foreign nations. America’s defense and security lies in foreign policy by furthering certain goals. The national policy puts the nation’s interest first (War and International Law, n.d., para. 2). The U.S invasion of Iraq after the 9/11 attacks on America is an example of the foreign policy in play. President Bush believed that by invading Iraq, the U.S would cripple Al-Qaeda and would lead to the capture of Osama Bin Laden. This move was criticised by many, citing America’s invasion as a neo-colonialism effort of the West in the East. However, back at home, the U.S key intention was to curb the imminent threat of terrorism on U.S soil posed by Al-Qaeda. Although this action took time, it culminated by the killing of Bin Laden, weakening the Al-Qaeda movement. Another example is the sanctions imposed on Russia and President Putin over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The U.S believes that the invasion violates the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. The beliefs are in line with the foreign policy that identifies all nations as equals. A secure Ukraine and its good relations with its neighbours are in the best of interests of the U.S (Ukraine and Russia Sanctions, n.d., para. 5). The United States has risen to the position of world’s Super Policeman due to three aspects. Firstly, the strength of the U.S military and the economic stability of the nation have favoured this position. The U.S has the strength in terms of the war power and money necessary to fight wars and emerge victoriously in the end. The resources devoted to the U.S military goes to the strengthening its involvement in international incidents. The economic stability ensures that in any war fought; the U.S will emerge financially

The Role of Technology in College Research Paper

The Role of Technology in College - Research Paper Example Let us analyze the conversion of text books into e-books and utilization of iPads by the students in the educational system. Here we present a comprehensive analysis of implementing this particular technology into the college along with detailed information in terms of its functions and its impact on the students, organization and the education system. The main objective that one has to consider is to what extent does this technology enhances the learning of the students and to what extent it suppresses the well-being of the students. This analysis provides a clear view towards how the technology has to be handled to enhance the students’ learning and how far the limitations have to be imposed towards the students.It is no surprise that students in the modern era are highly utilizing the technology and the Internet. When the printed paperback books are replaced by e-books, it provides the students with an easy access to their books anywhere and anytime. It also serves as a con venient way for the students to store a large number of books within a single device. This is indeed the major reason why students and educators prefer the system of e-books conversion. It tends to provide greater mobility and convenience in the part of the students. The use of e-books and iPad devices provide better functionality to the users. The e-books make your search pretty simple and include advanced functions such as highlighting, annotating and bookmarking the important pages. The e-books are cost effective.... Here we present a comprehensive analysis of implementing this particular technology into the college along with detailed information in terms of its functions and its impact on the students, organization and the education system. The main objective that one has to consider is to what extent does this technology enhances the learning of the students and to what extent it suppresses the well-being of the students. This analysis provides a clear view towards how the technology has to be handled to enhance the students’ learning and how far the limitations have to be imposed towards the students. It is no surprise that students in the modern era are highly utilizing the technology and the Internet. When the printed paperback books are replaced by e-books, it provides the students with an easy access to their books anywhere and anytime. It also serves as a convenient way for the students to store a large number of books within a single device. This is indeed the major reason why st udents and educators prefer the system of e-books conversion. It tends to provide greater mobility and convenience in the part of the students. The use of e-books and iPad devices provide better functionality to the users. The e-books make your search pretty simple and include advanced functions such as highlighting, annotating and bookmarking the important pages. In addition, the e-books are cost effective when compared to the conventional printed text books. â€Å"The conversion to the iPad device and e-textbooks will help lower the overall cost of education to students, saving students roughly $200 per quarter on the cost of printed textbooks† (â€Å"Brown Mackie College System of Schools,† 2012). iPads must be used as a great tool for inspiring the

The guest worker program and immigrants Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The guest worker program and immigrants - Essay Example After one and a half years of temporary residency the individual can apply for permanent legal rights by demonstration of minimal knowledge of English language, US history and administration. If the guest worker program is legalized the government would require to create and grant 200,000 two year visas every year. In this context, it may be noted, â€Å"As of November 2, 1989 2,059,600 persons of all nationalities had been approved as temporary residents among 3,031,166 who had applied for legalization and had received preliminary processing, only 115,646 applications had been denied, 612 cases had been terminated and 855,300 are pending.†. The guest worker program was introduced in United States in 2004 to attract the much-needed labor at that time in different industries. This program aimed at improving the lives of the immigrants in the United States by offering them opportunities open in the country. Under this program the job positions that remain unfilled by the America ns can be offered to the immigrants who have valid work permit. The system required the employers, contributing to the guest worker program, to register the non-American employees hired, such that the government could maintain a record. This policy helped in filling up the positions that did not attract the American Workers. This program helped in registrations of many immigrants. The government provided permits to the immigrants participating in the Guest worker program, for a period of three years, after which the permit was renewed if the certain requirements were met.

Performance Assessment and Gifted Students Essay

Performance Assessment and Gifted Students - Essay Example Study shows that students of these days are almost changing the old education system due to being able to grasp ideas fast and easily. Though not all students are gifted and talented, many of them are able to excel in other different fields at school. With libraries having been incorporated in the learning curriculum, students have made good use of the facilities and have come up with their own research plans and projects. The libraries also encourage students to study ahead of their teachers, where they make use of a variety of materials apart from the normal class notes given by their teachers. Research shows that giftedness can be found in all cultures and can be expressed in different ways. Every individual usually has some hidden potential which, if given a little push could be unleashed. This is because despite having the gifts and talents, some students might just sit on them without taking any step to exploit them. It is thus the reason that teachers, parents and guardians sh ould take note of the gifted students and look out for the untapped hidden ability in them (Sarouphim 277). To start with, one must adopt a broader view of the idea of intelligence, giftedness, and talents that goes beyond the academic performance of an individual and which includes a wide variety of human abilities. Before beginning the process, it is also important to pay attention to the different kinds of giftedness that exist in an individual. These may include; emergent giftedness, potential giftedness or high-potential giftedness (Calero, Belen and Robles 176). The authors also provided that the reasons for having this procedure was because the giftedness or creativity level in a person was also affected by other external factors other than the individual’s own abilities. Such include; the socio-environmental variables, which may either hinder or optimize the abilities. This is mainly due to the fact that the environment with which a person grows up in can to a great e xtent affect how he or she exploits his or her talents. Study shows that individual’s performance could be affected by cultural and environmental factors, especially those in underrepresented communities (Sternberg and Reis 142). The extent to which an individual exploits their abilities is also said to depend on their gender. This is greatly affected by the research results which indicate that men are said to be more competent than women and, thus, their performance it deemed to be also better (Gorman and Kmec 841). This extensively affects the mentality of women and thus, very few of them will be willing to exploit their gifts and talents. Otherwise, others will sit on them and do nothing due to fear. Research also indicates that the performance of women will also be affected by the fact that no one pays attention or cares about their hidden abilities. Performance assessment of verbal and math achievement in students showed that the level of giftedness in students also diff ered in terms of gender. By use of the Internal/External Frame Model, (I/E Model) both males and females were found to be similarly gifted in the way that they formed their verbal and math self-concepts. However, the results of their scores were found to be completely different. Female students were found to be more

The guest worker program and immigrants Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The guest worker program and immigrants - Essay Example After one and a half years of temporary residency the individual can apply for permanent legal rights by demonstration of minimal knowledge of English language, US history and administration. If the guest worker program is legalized the government would require to create and grant 200,000 two year visas every year. In this context, it may be noted, â€Å"As of November 2, 1989 2,059,600 persons of all nationalities had been approved as temporary residents among 3,031,166 who had applied for legalization and had received preliminary processing, only 115,646 applications had been denied, 612 cases had been terminated and 855,300 are pending.†. The guest worker program was introduced in United States in 2004 to attract the much-needed labor at that time in different industries. This program aimed at improving the lives of the immigrants in the United States by offering them opportunities open in the country. Under this program the job positions that remain unfilled by the America ns can be offered to the immigrants who have valid work permit. The system required the employers, contributing to the guest worker program, to register the non-American employees hired, such that the government could maintain a record. This policy helped in filling up the positions that did not attract the American Workers. This program helped in registrations of many immigrants. The government provided permits to the immigrants participating in the Guest worker program, for a period of three years, after which the permit was renewed if the certain requirements were met.

Political science - The Elites Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Political science - The Elites - Essay Example In such cases, the laws do not address the needs of the public, which usually leads to conflicts. This is clearly demonstrated by the numerous protests by various groups of people concerning their oppression. A good example is the American constitution, which was founded on the interests of the elites. As a result, it was not pleasant to the majority of the population, which brought forth the necessity for quick intervention by the elites. The intervention used in this case was the passage of the civil rights act of 1964, which was very good in reducing the oppression and discrimination of the minority and oppressed groups of people but also had hidden ideas (Hasday 96). In this case, the elites used it as a base for winning support from the public thus stabilizing their base of control and influence. Through the influence, the elites usually affect the public’s point of view. In the initial stages after airing their views, the public usually falls for their view. This does not last for long as they later realizes that they were taken advantage of by the elites. Since the elites usually have access to the resources, they usually use them to win their support (Chase, D and Chase, A 20). A good example is in the case of feminist movement as outlined by Ryan. In this case, despite the women forming a larger part of the population, they were observed to be less privileged. Having got a clear understanding of this, the elites used the power and resources available to them and put into place laws that empowered them. This is evident in the grievances of the women who were among the founders of women’s movement, which was formed in 1848. Through their hard work and dedication, the group expanded and had good coverage in various areas. Despite this, they did not get nationa l support, which raises questions to the reason behind the lack of support. Through the protest raised against

The Racial Relationship Between the Americans Essay Example for Free

The Racial Relationship Between the Americans Essay Agenda: The racial relationship between the American Whites and Blacks has always been an important issue in American society and a hot-discussed topic in modern literature. What we are doing today is to show you the racial relationship between the Whites and Blacks reflected from three famous black authors’ works we’ve learned this semester: Selection from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave by Frederick Douglass, The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes, and How It Feels to Be Colored Me by Zora Neal Hurston. Then we will carry on a comparison between the different recognitions of the relationships from the three works by the three black writers. We will analyze it in aspects of the authors’ era, life background, and finally point out that background and education level is enormously important in changing black people’s view in their relationship with white people. Conclusion Now that my partners have shown you a clear picture of our research, I would like to recap it and give our conclusions. Let’s start by answering these questions: What do they think of the black people? For Frederick Douglass, he thinks that all men should be equal, and due to his personal experience of being a slave (referring to the Narrative we have learned in class), he firmly thinks that black people are suffering greatly. And they should fight against white people for freedom. He also points out that education is the key for African Americans to improve their lives. For Langston Hughes, he holds the view that Black people have also been through civilization and everything which makes them strong and beautiful, thus black people should be proud of their identity. For Zora, she puts optimistic tone in describing black people’s life. She thinks there’s peace and prosperity in black people’s life. There shouldn’t any racial problems. Then let’s see what do they think of white people? For Frederick, white people are cruel slave owners who neglect the rights of black people and restrict their freedom. So he fights with the whites in the  Narrative, and get freedom. For Langston, he comes from a family of a mix race, and his grandmother has always instilled in her grandson a lasting sense of racial pride, to be proud of the black identity. For Zora, whites are not generalized as cruel racists and beasts. Hurston transcends the boundary of race and depicts them on the premise that they are humans who are specific and of differences, not that they are whites. What do they think of the relationships of the blacks and the whites? * For Frederick Douglass: contradictory, enemies, afraid of white * For Langston Hughes: unharmonious, should be respect and self-proud * For Zora Neal Hurston: just human, praise black identities, Finally we can come to the conclusion that different era and education background plays an important role in the three authors’ view of relationships between blacks and whites.

Colgate Competitor Analysis

Colgate Competitor Analysis It all began in 1806, when soap was commonly made at home; William Colgate had the genius idea to start selling individual portions of starch, soap and candles. This business was born on Dutch Street, in New York City, from where he delivered his merchandise to all customers, an innovative approach at the time. By 1817, the first Colgate advertisement appeared in a New York newspaper, and several years later, they expanded and established a factory in New Jersey, an indication of their growing success. This company was passed down from son to son, each and every one of them striving for integrity and quality in every aspect of the business. Concepts such as Colgate people were a way of managing, not just a team, but a family. This concept was first introduced by the founder and is still used today. Throughout the years, Colgate was an innovator, always developing new products. They were able to forecast market trends before the competition and develop strong brand equity through merg ers, acquisitions, and joint ventures. The first merger was with Palmolive Company, a soap company as well. Together, they created the first scented soaps, perfumes, and essences. In 1872, Colgate introduced toothpaste in malleable tube similar to the one we know today. Superior merits gave this convenient and simple brand the prestige to successfully tap into several different markets. In 1900, they won an honorable award for their premium soaps and perfumes at the Worlds Fair, which was conducted in Paris. In 1906, the 100th anniversary pronounced the success of over 800 brands, multiplying considerably in the years to follow. The years to come involve Colgate starting to think globally, by doing so through a subsidiary in Canada, quickly followed by operations in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. The development of new brands begins going rapidly, and what seems to be like one influential brand after the other is constantly bombarding the market. Many cleaning products are established such as Ajax and Soupline, which was first popular in France and is now sold in 54 countries around the world. The Palmolive dishwashing liquid was introduced in 1966 and can now be found on rack of your local grocery store. Irish Spring, Caprice hair care, and Protex, are brands that you are also probably aware of, proving to still be successful to this day, and can be found in over 70 countries. In 1976, they even acquired a leader in dog food named Hills, which shows to what extent they were confidently conquering the world horizontally with this wide variety of products. In 1983, one of todays extremely popular pr oducts, the Colgate Plus toothbrush, is launched. So many are sold annually that if you lined them up end to end, they would circle the globe 16 times. (Colgate Website) Soon after,a joint venture is made with leading oral care companies in Hong Kong. Acquisitions are made buying Murphy Oil Soap, Mennen,  Kolynos Oral Care, popular in Latin America, Gaba, prevalent in Europe, and they most recently bought Toms of Maine, a US based natural toothpaste. By 1989 the annual sales were surpassing 5 billion dollars, and by 1997, Colgate Total toothpaste is recognized as the market leader. With sales today surpassing the 15$ billion benchmark, Colgate continues to be a strong player in todays oral care market. Moreover, the company also conducts triple bottom line practices, reaching for success while targeting benefits for people, profits, and the environment. They have a You Can Make A Difference Program, which distinguishes the Colgate people for their grand efforts. Furthermore, they established Colgates HIV/AIDS initiatives in South Africa. As for performance and profit, they have been ranked in Business Week and GovernanceMetrics International Inc. as having the top Oral Care products. Concerning sustainable practices and respect for the environment, they contributed in a 40% decrease in water use, a 22% reduction in C02 emissions, and was the first of its industry to use recycled material in Europe. Market Industry and Market Analysis With over 24% category share in 2009, Colgate-Palmolive maintained its position as a world leader in oral care followed by Procter Gamble Co with 19.9% of company shares, and GlaxoSmithKline Pc with 9.9% (GMID company shares) (appendix with company shares graph). A significant reason why Colgate benefits from the highest market share in the oral care category is due to it high level of product development. They constantly launch new and innovative products, which gives them a competitive advantage in the market, and this is a big part of the companys strategy driving profitable growth. For example, in 2009 the company introduced the Colgate Wisp which was the first disposable mini-toothbrush with a breath freshening bead that allows the user to have a clean, fresh mouth with no water or rinsing. Due to their strong product development capability and focus on innovation, Colgate-Palmolive is in a position to continuously upgrade its product line regularly, thereby increasing custome r loyalty and revenues.   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Another reason why Colgate has been able to acquire such a high market share is because of its high focus on marketing, leading to strong brand equity. Their marketing strategies involve offering products based on consumers needs and communicating the benefits though methods like free sampling as well as the Internet. Using this approach worldwide has been successful in increasing sales but also in acquiring a larger size of the overall category of the market. A further reason why the market share is high is because the brand enjoys a strong level of consumer recognition. Therefore, they have the possibility of gaining leverage in new markets and maintaining loyalty of existing customers.   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   In addition to being a global leader in terms of company shares, Colgate Palmolive Co also has the highest brand share in oral care, with Colgate possessing 19.8% in 2009. The Colgate brand is followed by the Braun Oral-B brand having 9% of the market and then by Crest obtaining 6.4% of brand shares in that same year (GMID- product development) (appendix with brand shares graph). Other smaller but still significant competitors that Colgate-Palmolive faces in the oral care category include Johnson Johnson Inc, with their Listerine brand accounting for 6.4% of brand shares, followed by the Unilever group with Signal that has 4.1%, and finally GlaxoSmithKline Pc who owns the Aquafresh brand with 3.3% of brand shares.   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   It is important to note that although the Colgate brand is experiencing growth year after year, the oral care is a mature category with limited room for innovation. Even though there are some growth opportunities, because oral care accounts for around 63% of Colgate-Palmolives beauty and personal care revenue, it is highly exposed to a slump in this category. In addition to being a mature category, the oral care products are facing a higher level of competition from private labels, which again hinders the profitability of the category. The increasing purchase of private labels is largely due to the decreasing spending power, which is caused by the high level of unemployment in many sectors since the economic downturn occurred. With a minimal cost per purchase, maintaining a high level of brand equity allows Colgate to remain competitive versus lower cost rivals. It also prevents recently established firms from gaining ma rket share. With the threat of private label, Colgate increased their effort towards innovation and branding by promoting the fact that they are the most recommended brand by dentists. This has helped Colgate fight the competitive pressures they are facing in the market. Not only does Colgate face increased competition from low-market brands but also from their major competitors such as Procter Gamble oral care products, who are also looking to expand globally in more perspective markets. Therefore, it is primordial for Colgate to continue investing in product development catering to customer needs, in order to face their increasing competition.   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   There is also the issue of counterfeiting oral care products which is posing a significant threat to the company in terms of revenue loss. In 2009 thousands of tubes of fake Colgate toothpaste were recalled. This had a negative effect on customer satisfaction since purchasers of the authentic Colgate could stop buying this brand in the future believing that it is inferior to other brands and therefore decreasing customer retention (Datamonitor).   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Despite the significant threats that Colgate faced in the oral care category, the company intends to remain in a market leading position and continues to have globally recognized brands by seeking opportunities allowing them to do so. For instance, Colgate had begun taking advantage of the economic and population growth with developing and emerging economies such as Brazil, India and China. Each of these economies show very high growth prospects in terms of demand in the upcoming years for consumer goods like oral care products. For instance, it is expected that between 2009 and 2014, Brazil will be the fastest growing market in oral care by accounting for 20% of the global growth, followed by China with 18%, and India with 9%. Although Colgate-Palmolive dominates oral care in Brazil, China and India with 44%, 26% and 38% of market share respectively, it is essential for the company to maintain and increase its presence in these economies in order to reap the benefits of this growth rate (GMID-product development) (appendix with market presence graph). However, they have already begun facing strong competition from their rivals PG and Johnson and Johnson in these countries. Local players in India and China have also begun gaining importance in their individual markets. Domestic companies such as Yunnan Baiyao in China, and Dabur in Japan, have begun offering herbal/natural oral care products and there is a growing demand for them. Since Colgate is one of the most valued and recognized brands globally, they are in a good position to take advantage of this market and further increase their market share. Competitive Analysis of Oral Care in the Canadian Market In the Canadian market, as of 2009, Colgate-Palmolive was the second leading company, with 18% of the market share in the oral care sector, after PG who possessed 34%, and just before Johnson and Johnson, who owned 17% of shares (Euromonitor) (Appendix oral company shares 2005-2009). In terms of company shares by brand in Canada, in 2009, Crest led the oral care category with 18.6% of shares, followed by Colgate Total with 7.8%, Listerine with 7.1%, and Braun Oral-B with 6.4%. Refer to appendix xx for oral care brand shares.Nevertheless, during that same year, Colgate was a leader in the sales of toothpaste with 42% of the value share (with Colgate Total accounting for a total of 21.5%) followed by Crest with 30.2% (Appendix toothpaste brand shares). The third company was SmithKline Beecham Consumer Healthcare Inc (SBCH), whose 13% market share was largely due to the introduction of Sensodyne in 2007, which was very popular in the Canadian market. In reaction to this, Colgate launche d a similar toothpaste in 2009 for sensitive teeth called Colgate Pro Relief, which was clinically proven to deliver instant and lasting relief from sensitivity. Another significant rival in the oral care category in Canada is Johnson and Johnson whom, aside from having a big presence in toothbrushes and denture care, was the leader in mouthwash/dental rinses with its Listerine brand, holding 52% of the value share in 2009. Not far behind was Scope (PG) with 26%, and Peroxyl (Colgate) in fifth place with less than 1% share (mouthwash/dental rinses shares appendix).   Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   When looking at PG, Colgates main competitor, their portfolio of brands in oral care category is highly diversified with Crest toothpastes and toothbrushes, whitening strips; Oral-B toothbrushes, and Scope mouthwashes/dental rinses. Also, like Colgate-Palmolive, PG continuously invest in strong marketing and advertising in order to maintain excellent brand image and brand awareness in the Canada. Therefore, in order to remain competitive and gain greater market share in the Canadian market, not only will Colgate need to continue to invest heavily in marketing, but a large amount will also have to be allocated towards innovation and product development. Knowing this, the company has recently introduced a multitude of new products including Colgate 360 ° ActiFlex, Colgate Max White, the re-launch of Colgate Total toothpaste and many more. Even though Colgate faces fierce competition in the Canadian market, there are many opportunities for them to exploit in order to gain market share. For instance, it is expected that tooth whitener products will be increasingly profitable, with a CAGR of 4% from 2009-2014 (Euromonitor). In addition, a CAGR of 3% is expected during that same period for manual toothbrushes, mouthwash/dental rinses and dental floss (Oral Care- Canada). Due to the increasing number of elderly people in Canada, it is expected that the denture care products will grow at a CAGR of 3% from 2009-2014.   It is essential for Colgate that they take advantage of these relatively high growth rates in Canada for the different oral care products, in order to acquire new customers and retain those who have been loyal to this day. Canadian Consumer Profile Being part of such a competitive market, Colgate aims to deliver maximized customer value to the market, offering a multi-product segment strategy. Colgate has identified all ages with any economic backgrounds as their target market, with the most focus on the baby boomer generation. There is an increasing growth of older demographics with low rate of childbirth, and this has had a direct impact on Colgate products. This shift resulted in a larger demand for oral care products that helps tooth discolouration, tooth sensitivity, and gum problems. The baby boomers usually have the highest disposable income, and they demand additional health benefits. This allows Colgate to position this segments products at a premium price. With this strategy, Colgate had 19.1% of sales from sensitive toothpastes in 2009, illustrating a profitable customer focus. As well, the recession in 2008 allowed Colgate to further focus their sales towards baby boomers. Due to the recession, the number of profess ional tooth whitening surgeries fell, which caused an increase in the demand for whitening toothpastes. Colgate, offering a wide variety of whitening toothpastes, was able to increase their sales in this sector, with sales of $78.2 million, which consists of 38.9% of their sales. It is also forecasted that the demand for tooth whiteners are to increase by 4% from 2009 to 2014. Not only is Colgate targeting baby boomers, but it is also targeting children to capture a long-term relationship with this age group as 6.8% of sales are from childrens toothpastes. For low to middle class consumers that are price-sensitive, Colgate offers traditional toothpaste. They comprise about 6.9% of their total sales. For quality-conscious consumers, Colgate offers wide variety of complete care toothpastes 18.2% of the sales. Colgate continues to increase brand recognition in this mature market to increase retention and loyalty by consistently offering a variety of products that best suit any customers needs. Strategy Product With over 20 different toothpastes, 11 different toothbrushes, 5 different childrens products, 10 different tooth whitening, and 10 different oral care specialties available in Canada, Colgate has successfully gained customer loyalty (see Appendix 1.1). This variety of products illustrates that Colgate has used a needs based segment strategy to attract every customer with different tastes. To list a few examples, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Reliefs feature of plugging and sealing open dentin tubules intends to gain interest from adults and elders whose sensitivity levels are much higher than other consumers. Moreover, Colgate Max Fresh mainly targets young adults with their different flavors and protection from bad breath. On the other hand, the idea of Colgate SpongeBob SquarePants Battery-Powered Toothbrushes was innovated to attract children, but it also was created with gentle bristles to protect their gums. From these following examples, it is obvious to note that Colgate is recognizi ng and understanding clients needs by providing the right products for each age group, which is a key factor when trying to increase loyalty and retain customers. Colgate continues to increase their value by positioning their products in all sectors of the market; from toothpastes that has no animal ingredients to attract vegetarians, or toothpastes that reduce the speed of the development of tartar above the gum line, to toothbrushes that are price-conscious or designed to remove odour-causing bacteria. By providing such a variety of products, they are preventing competition and substitution. Another factor that helped Colgate gain high awareness was through innovative packaging. For example, when Colgate was trying to penetrate the already existing whitening toothpaste market, they decided to come up with new premium packages matching their idea of creating sparkling and dazzling smiles. The toothpaste had a holographic package to catch attention. In order to make sure of this package, they used lead users strategy, where they gained a positive reaction, and therefore decided to launch the new product with this innovative packaging. Another example involves the launch of Colgate Max Fresh toothpaste in a unique clear tube. This new packaging was created for user convenience, so that the users know how much is left in the tube, notifying them when to replace it. With the slogan, find the right products that are best for you, Colgate strives to provide satisfaction to their consumers by supplying them with a range of products that meets their needs. In 2011, the company pl ans to continue innovation to meet consumer needs by introducing new products such as the Colgate Total Gum Defense, Colgate MaxClean SmartFoam toothpaste, Colgate 360 ° Surround, and Colgate Triple Action manual toothbrushes (http://investor.colgate.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=545863ReleaseType=Earnings)/ Promotion In order for Colgate to maintain its value in this competitive market, Colgate spent a total of $1,534 million in 2009. This expenditure was largely involved with the promotion of new, growing, and maturing products. When launching a new product, such as Colgate 360 toothbrush, their advertising objective was to be informative and persuasive. They used advertising, sales promotion, as well as the publicity approach, including advertising through cable T.V., consumer magazines, providing product samples, and utilizing point of purchase. Furthermore, they used lead user strategy, which helped create great word-of-mouth. (dentist recommended brand) Even though promoting new products is important, Colgate believes that it is also crucial to continue advertising the existing products in the maturity stage. Rather than promoting in order to be informative, objective for products in this stage involve successfully reminding the consumers in order to create greater retention. Reminding the consumers is essential since this helps consumers acknowledge Colgate products existence and availability, while preventing them from switching to their competitors. Through using the pull strategy, Colgate has invested a great deal of their revenue to sales promotion, personal selling, and direct marketing. By using extensive mass marketing, consumer promotion at point of purchase, and organizing special events where they aim to build one-on-one relationship and increase net marketing contribution. Pricing Colgate-Palmolives oral care subdivision offers a variety of toothpastes, toothbrushes, mouth rinses and dental floss. These products are characterized as being low priced, requiring minimal buyer effort, and are subject to mass distribution and promotion by the producer. Typically with these sorts of low-involvement products, price plays the most significant role in the decision-making process. However, recent consumer trends suggest an added perceived value of certain oral hygiene product attributes, in particular the newly launched whitening, sensitive, and total care products, which now account for over 76% of the value share of toothpastes in 2009. With price being the most flexible of the four marketing mix elements and changes in consumer trends, Colgate has developed dozens of different brand extensions at different prices ranging from $1.685 (per 100ml) to $5.871 (per 100ml) to reflect these changing demands (see appendix for further detail). Colgate therefore is primarily e mploying value-based pricing for these products as production costs do not significantly vary. Colgate has been particularly successful in doing so as people tend to be reassured when they buy a more expensive hygiene product, for they make the assumption that it is the best possible thing they can do for their teeth. However, with families and consumers tightening budgets and reducing consumption as a result of the continuing harsh economic climate, it will become harder for manufacturers such as Colgate to continue to raise prices for most oral hygiene products, even advanced formulations, as consumers will readily switch to similar competitors or private label brands. Toothbrushes, on the other hand, face different consumer behaviors. Despite the economic climate, Colgate has employed a similar value-based pricing strategy in its toothbrushes by introducing improved manual toothbrushes that are claimed to be superior to its basic predecessors, and therefore carry a higher price t ag. Colgate manual toothbrushes sold at a variety of retailers range from $1.99 to $5.99. This strategy has been particularly successful as Canadian consumers have developed loyalty to their brand of toothbrush for they sense a more significant difference between the regular and improved toothbrushes, thus dissuading many from switching or trading down, thus increasing consumer lifetime value and profitability. Colgate is also catering to more health conscious but price-sensitive consumers by increasingly introducing affordable electric toothbrushes. Distribution Being low priced, and requiring low consumer effort, Colgate products must be mass distributed and accessible to most if not all Canadians. Colgate employs an intensive distribution strategy aimed at a maximum market coverage which supports the application of product replenishment based on pull strategies, as these come closest to reflecting true consumer demand. Research suggests supermarkets are the largest distribution points for toothpaste as well as other oral care products, followed by mass merchandisers and drug stores. With that in mind, it would simply not be efficient for Colgate to sell directly to small distributors, therefore Colgate products often go through at least one wholesaler before reaching the shelves of our supermarkets. Colgate does however, directly sell to some of the larger retailer chains such as Wal-Mart, who purchase in such large volumes that it is more efficient to do so. Colgate therefore operates in what is called a parallel distribution network in w hich some retailers are forced to buy through a mass distributor while others are not. However, Colgate is working closely with small shop owners and local wholesalers through Joint Business Plans to ensure greater availability of Colgate products, as well as to provide the right assortment of products with the best visibility on the store shelves. Prior to distribution, while Colgate products are produced around the world, use of contract manufacturers is very limited as more than 90% of products were made in Colgate facilities. Colgate does concede however that the use of contractors often allows to optimize their supply chain capabilities, deliver innovative technologies, increase speed of delivery, and especially increases flexibility which is key in a rapidly changing marketplace. Three-year globalization contracts with their main suppliers enabled a reduction of the supplier base from 11 to 4 suppliers. For a key toothpaste ingredient, the supplier base was reduced from 7 to 3 to help achieve record savings and cost reductions. With optimized supply chain logistics and control over the manufacturing process, Colgate products are quick to move from their respective factories to stores all throughout Canada. In five years, Colgate managed to cut its time from product concept to retail shelves by 50%. Results Colgate-Palmolives CEO, Ian Cook, claims that his firm will continue to perform well given the current competitive and economic challenges and are committed to investing and growing our business and expanding our strong market positions (A-R 2009). Interestingly enough, Colgate-Palmolives company shareholders equity has bounced back from a ten year low, in millions, of 350 in 2002 to 3,116 as of 2009. Colgate-Palmolive (C-P) has clearly proven itself as a successful and innovative company year after year with solid financial results and consistent growth. In fact, the company claims to have obtained significantly superior results versus the SP index and the average of selected competition over the last 25 years. C-P obtained 3328% versus 2833% growth among competitors. Against the SP index the results are even greater compared with a 969% return to shareholders (Colgate TSRG). In Canada, Colgate-Palmolives launch of Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief has been quite successful. It is now th e number one selling SKU and the firms number one competitor has reacted with deep discounting, though Colgate maintains that they have taken market share away once the subsidies cease. They plan to invest and grow while still seeking to further already strong market positions. Operating revenue has increased for Colgate Palmolive steadily over the last 5 years. Although revenues from fiscal year 2009 were virtually unchanged from 2008, operating cash flow was up over 43% in 2009. The firm has consistently maintained its gross profit as a percentage of sales above the 50% threshold, reaching close to 60% in both 2009 and 2010. In addition, diluted earnings per share have seen 65.5% growth from 2004 to 2009. EXPLAIN WHAT THE NUMBERS MEAN As of C-Ps last quarter, North America formed approximately 19% of sales and unit volume grew 3.5% and 4.0%. Operating profit increased 22%. Although the 2010 annual report and official audited results have yet to be released as to date, fiscal year 2010 worldwide sales were $15,564 million, up 1.5% versus full year 2009. Operating cash flow in 2010 was lower by 2% to $3,211 million, a considerable drop compared to the aforementioned 43% increase in 2009. However, North America remains sluggish, where operating profit decreased 8%. Reported sales gains were 2%, with a 3.5% increase in volume while accepting 2.5% increase in coupons and promotions. C-Ps free cash flow, before dividends, does however remain very strong; consistent with 2009 it exceeded 100% of net income. Net income and diluted EPS for fiscal year 2010 were $2,203 million and $4.31, versus $2,291 million and $4.37 in 2009. From the Statement of Cash flows, in is clear C-P has been increasingly using debt to increased capital. Proceeds from issuance of debt having increased approximately 3.5 billion and 231.4 % from 2007-10 with net cash used in financing activities also increased 45.5%. Capital expenditures have remained consistent since 2007. Despite increases in net income, depreciation and amortization have remained steady over the last 5 years, with no unusual increase or decrease. Total assets are also virtually unchanged from 2009 to 2010. In their 2008 annual report, Colgate stated that they spent over $1.6 billion marketing its products around the world. In other words, Colgate is spending an amount nearly equal to the book value of its equity capital, which accounts for about 11% of total sales, every year on marketing its products. This is evidently a significant amount of capital that will be creating value for the firm in future business. For a competitor to replicate this company, C-P clai ms that they would have to spend multiples of this amount to establish and develop the relationships that they have acquired over many years. They claim that the same is true for certain general, administrative, and research and development expenses; all of which are being expensed as incurred. In evaluating the firms results, it is thus imperative to include the intrinsic value of marketing efforts. Recommendations According to oral care forecasts in Canada, Colgate should definitely continue to maintain its position as a domestic leader in toothpaste since it represents the highest level of sales in the Canadian market. This can be done successfully by developing new products and affectively marketing each one respectively. Colgate should then focus on manual toothbrushes because they have the second highest level of sales, followed by dental rinses, tooth whiteners and then denture care, which do in fact show growth but at more modest levels of sales. Secondly, while basic products provide the necessary means of oral care, more expensive value-added products provide convenience and comfort to the consumers ready to pay higher prices, such as babyboomers. People usually tend to be reassured when they buy a more expensive product, because they feel assured that its the best possible thing they can do for their teeth. In addition to new product development, companies will focus on marketing and advertising support of their existing brands. Colgate should continue to remain on the high end scale of the oral care industry and maintain position in the high end category. Moreover, with respect to the Canadian market, they should invest more heavily in the mouthwashes considering that they have no market share while sales are the third highest in the oral care category after toothpaste and toothbrushes. As previously mentioned, the toothpaste market is generally not price sensitive and brand loyalty plays an important role in majority of the customers. Currently nearly 97% of the population in developed countries uses at least one variety of toothpaste. This gives marketers virtually no space to expand the market with new users. Consequently, adding or increasing value to the product is the preferred alternative. Technological progress made in recent years altered the toothpaste segment and made innovation a driving force. New advancements have led to the launch of a variety of high-priced, value-added multifunctional products in several oral care categories such as toothpastes and toothbrushes. Whitening toothpastes and products offering multiple functions are driving growth in the dentifrices segment. Currently, for major toothpastes, averting tooth decay is not sufficient, therefore guaranteeing benefits such as fresher breath, healthier gums and whiter teeth. More comprehensive products such as Colgate Total have strengthened Colgate-Palmolives market position substantially. Technological advancements in recent years have altered the toothpaste segment to one that offers additional benefits besides just fighting cavities. This made manufacturers roll out products with a lot of additional features that were not available previously. Over three-fourths of net sales come from outside United States, so in future years strengthening market position worldwide will be integral to triumph over the competition. In addition, the considerable revenues from international operations are key to sustaining the firms value proposition, as product innovation has revitalized the oral care market in recent years. To ensure future success Colgate must continue to invest in product in

Western Perceptions of the American Indian Essay -- Indians Native Ame

Western Perceptions of the American Indian In this reflective essay, I discuss how the Europeans perceived the American Indians and the factors that shaped these perceptions. I have paid particular attention to the first-hand accounts of the encounters with the natives, written by Western explorers, missionaries, and visitors to the New World. It is particularly interesting to note how these accounts were distorted and exploited by different groups, each trying to mold the situation in their own way. We shall start with a reflection on cannibalism, and the myriad myths it engendered, since it can be argued that nothing about the Indians alienated the Europeans as much as this bizarre practice. Cannibalism, formally known as anthropophagy, was an anathema to Europeans armed with Christian precepts about morality and kindness to one’s fellow man. It was evidence of these acts that served to perpetuate many of the negative portrayals of the Indians that spread throughout the old continent. While the Europeans were certainly disgusted by cannibalism, nevertheless, it still served to intrigue them. Indeed, many explorers, upon arriving at the Americas, sought to witness it for themselves. We can deduce from these tales that there is something inherently exotic about the concept of eating human flesh that has captivated the human imagination for millennia. The noted anthropologist William Arens is known to have said that â€Å"Cannibalism is so good to think about that the human appetite is not easily satisfied.† Some theorists have suggested that myths of cannibalism were exploited to demonize those whom the Westerners sought to colonize. (Some radical historians even propose that tales of cannibalism may have been mere fabri... ...--------------------------------- [1] Kimberle S. Lopez, Latin American Novels of the Conquest (London: University of Missouri Press, 2002) 30. [2] Geoffrey Symcox, ed. Italian Reports on America 1493-1522: Letters, Dispatches, and Papal Bulls. (Belgium: Brepols Publishers, 2001) 43. [3] Bartholome de las Casas, Brief Account of the Devastation of the Indies. (1542) [4] Michel de Montaigne, â€Å"Of Cannibals†, In Selected Essays of Montaigne, trans. Donald M. Frame. (New York: Walter J. Black, 1943) 85-6. [5] Lynn Glaser, America on Paper: The First Hundred Years (Philadelphia: Associated Antiquaries, 1989) 161. [6] Bart L. Lewis, The Miraculous Lie: Lope de Aguirre and the Search for El Dorado in the Latin American Historical Novel (New York: Lexington Books, 2003) 8. [7] Lewis 12.