Identity and diversity Essay Example for Free

Identity and diversity EssayIdentity is a complex and diverse issue. As much as society, the media and academics try to debate its interpretation it is difficult to capture fully its meaning. According to Kroger (2000) individuality is a subjective feeling of self- alike(p)ness and continuity over time. If search to date has shown anything it is that there argon a number of ways to examine identity in psychology.Of the three Identity theorists available to us it is the Social Constructionist theory that has transformed the way we candidate and research identity today. It has provided us with an epistemological viewpoint that brings with it new methods of conducting identity research. This essay illustrates some of the strengths and weaknesses of this greet. The Social Constructionist salute has many strengths but its greatest is that it contributes epistemologically to the psychological study of human experiences.It suggests that any one environmental condition can produce many knowledges. (Willig, 2001) It highlights the central role of historical context, culture and language in the formation of a persons identity. The Social Constructionist theory views the person as embedded in society, continuously constructing multiple, diverse identities from a variety of social interactions. (Phoenix, 2007) Research by Keith, 1994 on heap with disabilities has shown that the individual differences within groups of people with the same impairment did not produce a single identity.To the contrary it showed that there is no disabled identity but instead multiple and diverse identitys. I am not my disability, Im me. (Keith, 1994) This research complements the psychosocial research by Eriksons where the importance of community and social interaction in the formation of identity was first identified. However, psychosocial theory only sees the person as being affected by society (Phoenix, 2007).Both the Social Constructionists and the psychosocial theorists use qu alitative research methodologies, the aim of which is to understand what it is like to experience different human experiences. Using a qualitative research methodology means the researcher is primarily concerned with meaning. (Willig, 2001) One of the strengths of the Social Constructionist approach is that it has broadened the focus from mental processes to include how we understand meaning by language and social relations. It suggests that identities are not natural and that realities are constructed by people in their public social interactions.Therefore, Social Constructionistresearchers have shown how identities are constructed other than depending on which culture is being examined. People living in collectivist societies like Japan and China responded based on their relationships to other people, I am a student at Beijing University. In contrast respondents from individualists cultures answered more personally I am a student. (Smith and Bond, 1998) On the other contribute psychosocial theorists use methodologies based on introspection and neglect large scale social identities.They view personal and social aspects as different and focus on the personal aspects. (Phoenix, 2007) Clearly, language is a crucial aspect of socially constructed knowledge. Social Constructionists researchers emphasise the central role that language plays in the construction of meaning. (Willing, 2001) Conversation is to be thought of as creating a social world just as causality generates a physical one. (Harre, 1983, p65 as cited in Pasupathi, 2001).The Social Constructionists viewpoint is that the same thing can be understood in a number of different ways, depending on the way people choose to tell their stories. A throw out strength of the Social Constructionist approach is that it provides the researcher with meaning and language based methods, namely, discourse summary. This hermeneutic approach treats participants as meaning producers and allows the researcher to exam ine the aspects of identity formation that are fluid and changing from setting to setting. (Phoenix, 2007).The study of life as a disabled child shows evidence of both rejecting being in a disabled category and also using their disability to gain privilege Can we go early, Miss, cos we are disabled. (Watson et al, 2000) Research carried out by psychosocial researchers use methods grounded in introspection and psychoanalysis. These researchers view language as a tool that can be used to describe inner experiences. They use research methods like clinical studies, ethnography and naturalistic observations all of which provide data that looks inward into the conscious mind and so has limitations in its methods of analysis. (Phoenix, 2007).The language used is therefore not analysed for meaning making, instead it is used to understand the viewpoints of individuals and to look for commonalities that substantiate the researcher claims. Although the Social Constructionist approach contribu tes greatly to the study of identity formation, it does have limitations. This approach also represents arelativist ontology, as it emphasises the diversity of interpretations that can be applied to research data. (Willig, 2001) As the approach focuses on the subjectivity of data and uses symbolic analysis it cannot be used to make predictions about events...My main preoccupation seemed to be desperately trying to deny the awareness of my difference which had started on that day. (Micheline Mason, in Campling, 1981, pp. 23-4) Research by Erikson would suggest that this experience suggests a cause-effect relationship. The young girls sudden awareness of the effect of her disability on her future. Erikson called this process normative crisis. Erikson research uses analysis techniques that look for understanding of the viewpoints of particular individuals. In contrast Social Constructionist analyses data from an outsider viewpoint that acknowledges the insiders viewpoint but does not p rivilege it. (Phoenix, 2007).Clearly, the Social Constructionist approach contributes greatly to the study of identity. It offers psychological research an epistemological stance and new research methods that are unique and enrich psychological research. The Social Constructionist theory is that our everyday social relations create new knowledges that are unique to the individual and their cultural context is a dramatic insight to the study of identity.The approach is that strengthened by the view that language is a crucial part of socially constructed knowledge. The very conversations we have create multiple meanings depending on the way people choose to tell our stories. One of the weaknesses of this approach is that it is difficult to analyse and research cannot be extrapolated to the population as a whole.

Learning Team Assignment Production Essay Example for Free

Learning Team Assignment takings EssayBusiness General Business1. Learning Team Assignment Production think for Riordan Manufacturing spell a paper of at least 1,050 words discussing strategic capacity planning and lean production for the new process mark and hang on fibril process for the electric fans at Riordan. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.any(prenominal) financial assistance package pays for your first year should non be set and then forgotten. Revisit your opportunities every semester. Picking up work-study vacancies, part-time jobs on campus and getting department scholarships can all replace loans to ignore your post-graduation obligations. Never take out a loan your first year and then hasten it out all through college if you can get break in money.This file OPS 571 Learning Team Assignment Production Plan for Riordan Manufacturing Part 4 4 includes overview of the following partsProduction Plan for Riordan ManufacturingNew mathematical op eration DesignLean ProductionSupply Chain ProcessConclusionBusiness General Business1. Learning Team Assignment Production Plan for Riordan Manufacturing Write a paper of at least 1,050 words discussing strategic capacity planning and lean production for the new process design and supply chain process for the electric fans at Riordan. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.Whatever financial assistance package pays for your first year should not be set and then forgotten. Revisit your opportunities every semester. Picking up work-study vacancies, part-time jobs on campus and getting deparA+ tutorial you will find here https//bitly.com/12CiYCxWhatever financial assistance package pays for your first year should not be set and then forgotten. Revisit your opportunities every semester. Picking up work-study vacancies, part-time jobs on campus and getting department scholarships can all replace loans to reduce your post-graduation obligations. Never take out a loan your firs t year and then run it out all through college if you can get better money. Business General Business1. Learning Team Assignment Production Plan for Riordan Manufacturing Write a paper of at least 1,050 words discussing strategic capacity planning and lean production for the new process design and supply chain process for the electric fans at Riordan. Format your paper consistent with APA guidelines.

Rational Choice Theory Analytical Framework

noetic Choice Theory Analytical FrameworkBefore I begin on my uninflected review of the selected article, I firstly, feel that it is authoritative to outline and define what an analytical theoretical account is and what it consists of. Due to the nature of the subject we are assessing, that being social science, it is pull that researchers have to contend with many different variables from different theoretical stand signifys to the vast differing ideological paradigms of this subject. If a study does not possess a proposed analytical model indoors its main body of writing, it result often be criticised for being overly descriptive and lacking a precise investigation, consequently meaning the academic work will lack clear focus and suffer from being vague.Secondly, analytical frameworks are many and varied, some utilise observable reality within society from institutions much(prenominal) as family, education and the state. These are suppositionl if the researcher intends o n gathering evidence from that particular institution, allowing the researcher test their hypothesis of Y affects X etc. However many analytical frameworks within the social sciences are usually intertwined to key intellectual theories these include landing fields such as Marxism, Rational survival of the fittest and Network conjecture. Researchers using these types of framework allow for a focuse document, which adopts a particular intellectual theory and systematically evaluates it to the chosen topic area from that standpoint.All analytical frameworks do share one particular trend whether it is assessing ideologies or the various institutions, their first initial task is to mobilise the intellectual attack through the body of literature. Furthermore this analytical framework must be chosen with careful consideration by academics, as within their chosen framework there will consist of theorists who share similar views on that particular issue. E.g. Rational superior theorists believe that we make choices based upon our in-person preference, having theorists support your billet increases validity and streng accordinglys structure of your argument, thus allowing you to raise particular oppugns such as is there rationality of radical Islam? In short these frameworks consist of a stiff of intellectual tools that guide the researcher through his/her research for example, how to collect, sort, and interpret the results found, obviously guiding is not the scarce if application within the theoretical framework but it also has close links with the particular sub-questions asked within that theory.Firstly, an important detail to reference about the particular article, is the title of the article itself The Rationality of Radical Islam this shows a clear indication of the authors analytical standpoint The use of Rationality within the title suggests that Wiktoro Kaltenhaler are taking a Rational Choice perspective get on within the article. Before I begin on exploring how Wiktoros has employed this rational choice theory to terrorist act, it is important to address what rational choice theory truly is and its assumptions.Throughout much of the western hemisphere in the early part of the 21st century, we have witnessed a shift in the way we analyse merciful behaviour. This shift was at large partly due to the emergence of RCT which has been dominant within economics but has spread to other disciplines. This Rational choice theory consists of three independent theories at its core including social choice theory, game theory and economics. Essentially RCT is actually three things at the same time, because not only does it possess a logical structure to which many use it as a fundamental ideology to theorising. that it is both a normative experimental method of investigation into the actions and behaviours of the individual.RCTs primary underlying focus begins with the clear acknowledgment of the individual, not the interaction be tween several individuals. RCT would therefore advocate a minimalist state which is only used for preserving individual liberties and non invasive on the individual. Furthermore RCT is also bear on with the explanation of all social phenomenons within society whether it be conforming, or deviant acts, it views universe as rational creatures meaning there are calculated mental process that exist within our choices. Because rational choice is derived from economics it acknowledges all social exchanges are like that of economic exchanges to which an actor will guide an action rationally, based on a hierarchy of preferences, that promises to maximise benefits and minimize costs (Zey 1998 p.2) these basic premises of humans, portray that our decisions are reared towards the sole aim of profit or pleasure.This article explores the The Rationality of Radical Islam it specifically asks the question Why do Islamist radicals engage in high-cost/risk activism (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.296) and t he incentives behind it. This particular analytical framework is perfect to use as, terrorism throughout the general cosmos is widely considered highly in crystalline, especially in the case of Jihadist terrorism, as how can you sacrifice yourself and others for a greater good? The reasons many see terrorists and their sympathizers as irrational is due to that their beliefs are so improbable and dogmatic, (Wiktorowicz, cited 2004 in Caplan, 2006 p.97) and what factual evidence do Jihadist terrorists have for gaining a place straight into paradise where they can love the company of 72 virgins? We foresee this certain approach as being nothing more than plain foolish, due to the dependency on belief. However Wiktrorowicz believes that we cannot value an action such as this, as irrational simply because we dont agree with it, and if the individual is optimizing their top preference then they are acting rationally (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.300).The bet on major point tackled by these two authors, is the assessment on the various incentives terrorist organisations offer, as all groups proffers its ideology as an efficient path to salvation, which serves as a heuristic device for in-doctrinal actors to weigh the costs benefits of certain behaviour (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.301). In other words most organisations dont offer material or worldly goods which by western culture does not reflect economic or personal benefit for the individual, but it shows that spiritual good are more important to some. But there is evidence that those who joined Algerias armed Islamic groups chose to do so to benefit economically from insurgency, such as smuggling (wiktorowicz 2006 p.302).Referring back to the previous point, a case study brought up in the article was on the Al-Muhajiroun which proved to be a popular group throughout the UK, but after the attacks on 9/11 the British state condemned the group for expressing radical views. However during its time this case study provides a perfec t example of payoffs, as the Al-Muhajiron only offered spiritual payoffs for such a high risk activity, many in this group viewed activism and even risk itself as means to achieve salvation and introduction to paradise (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.302). These points articulate that RCT doesnt provide an explanation of preference formation, but explains a strategy of choices under a set of ordered preferences (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.302) so RCT is not concerned with why individuals prioritise terrorism to the top of the list but it just wants to understand why we rationally choose to do something highly illegal and dangerous. at last Bruce Hoffman in regards to rationality of terrorism defines terrorism as the deliberate creation and exploitation of fear through violence or the threat of violence in the pursuit of political change. All terrorist acts involve violence or the threat of violence. (Hoffman 1998) his use of literature such as deliberate creation backs up the arguments of Wiktorowicz that terrorists pre-plan and put in every step of terrorism, this could be in terms of signing up for Jihadist attacks or the preparation of bombs, the terrorists know what they are doing and gladly do it pursuing their let self interest at any cost.Delving into the theoretical underpinnings of the article, I firstly, came across within the literature a reference to Mother Teresa in which she advocated that religion was self-sacrificial and wasnt motivated by external rewards (Wiktorowicz 2006 p.302). This has one of two benefits one the use of a similar theorist strengthens Wiktorowiczs argument, as the author is acknowledging a rationale in the idea that material goods are not the only driving force of an individual. And secondly, within this article by Kwilecki Wilson we can see a clear running constitution for RCT as in the opening abstract they state that this paper applies rational choice to the religion of Mother Teresa (Kwilecki 2000 p.205).Lastly, upon viewing Wiktoro wiczs endnote system, we can see the material they used to reference and guide their abstract is heavily interlinked to the analytical framework of RCT, such as the economic approach to human behaviour an introduction to rational choice by Jon Estler clearly shows that the theoretical underpinnings all point to a RCT perspective approach and has been applied to the topic of terrorism.With RCT being a major ideological challenger within the social science world over the past six decades, there is now a huge library of literature attacking and argue RCT and is currently still growing. To begin I want to discuss the advantages of this particular approach in general. Firstly, RCT has survived this long due to its genuine fundamental strengths e.g. rationality accords with uncouth sense in certain simple settings. For example, consider a choice between $5 and $10, no strings attached. (Herrnstein 1990 p.357) On this basis of behaviour, we would evermore choose the larger sum of mon ey no matter what, so in a sense arguing against RCT is like arguing against the principal of indisputable rectitude and against common sense in general.Second, the sheer power of this theory is an undisputable strength of its own, as it has manifested itself into all disciplines that examine behaviour from political philosophy to the behavioristic psychology in psychology it is hard to critique such a coherent framework. So its generality in other words allows assumptions to be placed into a wide variety of topic areas, without them being splintered into a mix of complicated sub-theories. This common deductive base detaches them from other main theories as by reducing the area of disagreement it can work much more efficiently.Before 9/11 investigations into terrorist cells were minimal, so too were activities regarding anti-terrorism. However after the attacks on the world Trade Centre in New York, we witnessed a major influx with both participants in high risk activities as wel l as homecoming terrorism agencies investigating these radical motives. integrity thing is clear in terms of terrorism is the fact that RCT has opened up radical movements who were previously expound as unflappable, ideological zealots trapped by rigid adherence to dogma, are now regarded as strategic thinkers.(Wiktorowicz 2005 p.13) This approach breathes life into the study of terrorists actions and how to counteract such activities e.g. Deterrence, there is little doubt that old-fashioned deterrence reduces the amount of terrorism, and in theory increasing the risk and severity of being caught should also continue to degenerate the amount of people who adopt radical beliefs.Secondly moving on to the general criticisms of this theory, which has seen a wide range of claims make against it, for instance RCT cannot explain the instauration of various social phenomenons such as trust, reciprocity and especially charity, as in such organisations the masses are the ones benefitting from the individuals actions, and the individual isnt rationally choosing to maximise their personal benefits. Furthermore in terms of the individuals choices, it is safe to say that individuals do not possess all knowledge and information on everything anything, so essentially humans rely on heuristics to guide our thought processes which essentially intelligent guesswork.This limitation can also go further into the fact that in society straight off and even in the past, peoples choices are constrained by the many social institutions of society the modal individual will find his or her actions checked from relationship to death by familial and school rules laws and ordinances(Freidman 1991 p.208) . Continuing on from the last point its seems clear that its not just institutions structures holding individuals back, but the pressures of so called grateful behaviour as these social norms are essentially a barrier to the pursuit of self-interest. Lastly on the general criticisms towards RCT Id like to discuss a point raised in the book by Paul Anard who wrote if rationality is about consistency, including logical consistency, then human agents cannot be considered rational in a bounteous sense. (Anard 2002 p.22) This quote articulates a very interesting standpoint against the fundamental underpinnings of this theory as if RCT states we are so rational in mind body then why do we have inconsistencies of thoughts, and why are these behaviours such a common occurrence within our society.A weakness RCT has in relation to terrorism is that RCT generally operates in a post-hoc manner where researchers usually examine past precedents to rationalise and predict similar event of the future, (Lindauer 2012 p.8) but in the area of terrorism this is not a good idea, as one terrorism is irrational that mathematically people cannot always predict events and secondly, if a mistake was to be made the consequences could be devastating and traumatic as peoples lives are at risk.As discussed previously within this essay, RCT has a high number of loyal followers and a wide literature on all subjects, so as RCT is focused upon behaviour, it has made important inroads to other topic areas not just the study of terrorism. One key area RCT is dominant in, is the low turnout rate within elections. RCT states that turnout is, for many people most of the time, a low-cost, low-benefit action. (Aldrich 1993 p.261) so will always suffer. This theory has been the backbone of reform and incentives to revert voter apathy and re-engage people back into politics. For example it is important for a political campaign to outline what benefits it will have on the individual causing it to be a high benefit action.Secondly RCT is prominent within criminology and the rationality of criminals, this topic is similar to terrorism in respect that, RCT argues the decision to commit an offense is negatively related to the perceived costs of criminal offence and positively relate d to the perceived rewards of crime (Nagin 1993 p.479) thus meaning there is a rational mental process taking place within the individual before a crime is committed. Like tiny crime is often committed at night or during quiet hours as criminals mentally calculate the benefits, such as they will be less(prenominal) likely to be disturbed or be seen committing a crime. RCT creates a wonderful overview to the behaviours of crime and the individuals within it.In conclusion the analytical framework utilised within the article of terrorism allows for a detailed and unique perspective on why individuals choose to commit terrorist actions. The authors use of case studies back up the RCT theory, adding not only depth but lying out clear empirical evidence of Rational choice for the reader to ponder. Because RCT is a more coherent group defined by a very clear methodology (Burnham 2008 p.26) allows the theory to be implemented into other areas. To give an example, the rationality within com mitting crime can be directly compared and contrasted towards terrorism interlinking the mental process that go with it, thus in turn creating a powerful theory of analysis which has much literature and backing. Lastly, concluding with my thoughts on using an analytical framework within academic research. I feel using a framework is crucial in order obtain an essay that consists of structural rigour. Studying a topic area can be a daunting task especially a very broad topic like many in the social sciences, but using an analytical framework can help severalise down the topic of your choice helping you research, gather present your findings into a coherent argument. Furthermore without a set framework the article will onrush to answer more questions than it can answer making it a weak descriptive academic piece of work.

BT Global Services Strategic Analysis

BT orbicular Services Strategic AnalysisIn the bargon-ass BT Global services scheme has experienced hard times, resulting in the company subject high levels of debt through the heavy use of colligation ventures. In recent times, BT Global Services fall in adapted from this by historical by offering more homogeneous harvest-tides, leading to a needs-based schema focusing on multi subject corporations instead of products intended for domestic use, as they offer in the UK.Their strategy is based on their strategic position in the telecoms industry Hard for new competitors to enter, however they bring in a competitive parity with their main competitors ATT, Verizon Business and Orange Business Services.Their lifesize client base and brand image has vie a key role in their strategy for rumping international corporations and world governments. However, they show a weakness that they project a comparatively high ranking(prenominal) focusing turnover which may endure had a negative effect on their strategy formation process.Due to the size of BT class, it is difficult to judge the mastery of BTGS strategy in relation to the whole of the corporations trading operations. However, as a business unit, their financial results are inconsistent potentially showing that improvements are needed to be made.Recommendations made relate to maintaining key senior focus staff truly differentiating themselves by innovating to create a temporary competitive advantage and to focus on European based international corporations to take advantage of BTs brand power that it has developed in that region.1. Introduction to the reportThis report contains a strategic abbreviation of the international company BT Group (BT) focusing upon its business unit BT Global Services (BTGS) through the lens of strategic formation.The report starts with an analytic thinking of BT Groups overall strategy, and then their subsidiary BT Global Services planetary strategy, then the r eport progresses onto conducting an external and immanent analysis before concluding with recommendations.2. Introduction to the CompanyBritish Telecommunications (BT Group) is ane of the largest publicly traded companies in the FTSE 100 at the present time, with a market capitalisation of 13,818 million (capital of the United Kingdom Stock Exchange, 2011). The company operates in the telecommunications industry provision heterogeneous products ranging from Broadband to Ethernet to Voice.From humble origins as a subsidiary of The Post Office and its initial public offering in 1982, BT has grown into a large multi national company whilst maintaining itself as the market leader in the UK. Since its flotation, BT has been prevalent on the international scene, entering joint ventures with many overseas corporations, most notably ATT. (BT Plc, 2011)3. BT GroupOverall BT Groups strategy has been focused on standardisation of their products and services since 2009 they have decreased their range of products from 3,500 to 1,400 (BT, 2011). In the future BT are planning to combining their planetary communicates into one standard network, by doing this they aim for a cost transformation (BT Plc, 2010).Since Global Services expansion abroad, BT Group has had to change its strategy to protecting its superior market share in the UK after deregulations in the UK and the subsequent emergence of foreign competitors has posed a threat (food turner and Gardiner, 2007). BT Groups strategy for their domestic marker involves variegation into new markets such as Broadband, Online gaming, Voice, TV and IT services (BT Plc, 2010).4. BT Global ServicesBT Global Services have experienced some large changes over the past decade, they have just recovered from incurring large losses standing out from BT groups improving subsidiaries financial achievements their pre-tax profits fell 45% in lead months (BBC, 2009).These large losses were contributed to BTGS bad worldwide strategy during the period of 1994 to 2004. During this period BT set out to become the largest supplier of telecommunications, therefore its strategy was to expand spherically. The companys target market was multinational corporations who have operations in a variety of regions. However, due to BTs industry, heavy investment in physical infrastructure would be needed. To spank these market entry barriers, BTs strategy had to involve forming strategic alliances with foreign companies BT committed itself to numerous joint ventures. By creating a truly global network, they hoped to posses a erratic and rare product to gain the advantage over their competitors who could not offer such a large network (BBC, 1999 Turner and Gardiner, 2007).Nevertheless, this did not succeed. Reasons for this could be attributed to their strategic alliance partnerships. BT failed to maintain stable relationships, such as for example, in their joint venture Concert originally with MCI but due to flaws in a coup detat bid, this failed. BT then set up a new joint venture called New Concert with another US telecoms giant ATT. Yet this failed again. These flaws in BTs joint ventures, couple with the big amount of debt that BT built up acquiring them, lead to BTs large losses (BBC, 2001 BBC, 2001 Turner and Gardiner, 2007).In response to these failures, BT radically changed its strategy. This strategic conversion saw BT initiate a radical withdrawal from the majority of its international markets, to consolidate their UK and EU market to protect their main source of revenue, the UK market (Forbes, 2010 Turner and Gardiner, 2007).At present they are forecasting a result of 100m in operating cash flow this year, which is evidence that their electric current strategy is effective and that they have learned from their mistakes in the past. Their change of strategy stinker be pick upn by their offering of an change magnitudely homogeneous service around the globe (BT, 2011). Levitt (1983) high lights the importance of multinational corporations operating in a consistent manor, in BTs case, by offering the same service globally, by doing this BT can operate at a relatively low cost.BTGS are differentiating themselves by utilising a needs-based strategy. By focusing on meeting the needs of large multinational corporations that are constituents of strong global firmament industries, they can differ from their competition by using their breath of scope, thanks to their large multi-protocol switching network (Porter, 1997 BT, 2011).One could say, that BTGS strategy form itself out of an adaptative mode, in which their strategy was decided by many managers with conflicting views compromising over issues to produce their final decision Turner and Gardiners (2007) case study draw poor steering behaviour as a cause for their initial strategys shortcomings (Mintzberg, 1978).BTs intended strategy was to replicate its business in the UK globally, however through the regulation i n a stream of decisions, the realised strategy became focused on consolidating their home market and the European market, whilst taking on lighter activities worldwide. Their strategy has been formed through the environment of the dynamic telecommunications market, influenced by many changes in leadership (BBC, 2001 Mintzberg, 1978).5. External AnalysisDe Wit and Mayer (2004) state that external and internal assessments are needful for the diagnosing aspect to a realised strategy. Using Porters (2008) five forces, focusing on potential entrants of new competition and direct competitors, one can see how the competitive environment has affected BTGS strategy formation.Threat of new entrantsThe need for infrastructure to enter the market makes it very difficult for small firms to enter because of the huge amount of investment required. This point can be emphasised because one can see the problems BT experienced when they attempted to set up their own global system with joint ventures. Therefore all of BTs competition is from other large multinational telecommunication companies.New competitors may also find a bar to establish a market share due to brand issues multinational corporations have high prerequisites and need established companies that have a track disgrace of consistent and reliable services (Gardiner and Turner, 2004).However the global telecommunications industry has an estimated worth of 3.7 trillion dollars which may attract large multinational companies that have the resources to diversify their operations, such as Virgin group has done in the past in different markets (Plunkett Research Ltd, 2010).Direct competitorsThe global telecommunications market is made up of large competitors which have access to a large pool of funds for extensive advertising campaigns. These multinational corporations such as Orange Business Services, ATT and Verizon Business are strong competitors with strong brand images in their own right however Ovum (2009) report s that the BT brand is dominant when compared.Since ATT was granted an operating licence in 1994, they have been in competition for BTGS MNCs but also BT groups domestic client base (Fagan, 1994). BTGS competitor ATT, have a resembling strategy of differentiated their products to multinational corporations. sooner Concert ATT strategy had involved leasing out its use of networks from BT, however they began to offer the same standardised service as they offered when cooperating with BT in Concert joint venture, supplying businesses with their own global IP network (ATT, 2011). This is very similar to BTs strategy of targeting MNCs, and so poses a great threat their joint venture in the past had a negative affect on BTGS performance (BT Plc, 2002).Since the end of the joint venture, ATT have been heavily investing in improving their global infrastructure, and in product innovation (Pappalardo and Mears, 2002).Cooperation with this competitor in the past has proved troublesome, howev er BT and ATT have joined an additional strategic alliance by interlinking their video-conferencing product network (Taylor, 2010). By using this strategic alliances, BT have been able to stem competition from ATT and maintain their MNC client base.6. Internal AnalysisFollowing on from the external analysis using a SWOT analysis, focused on BTGS strengths and weaknesses, one can further inspect the diagnosing aspect of strategy formation.StrengthsBTGS has an increasing brand power, which BTs management have been focusing on customer service (Servicedesk, 2009). The image that BT has built upon over the decades have given BT Global Services a good keister in which to build and maintain its own.BTGS has a large client base comprising of MNCs such as Siemens and BNP Paribas, these providing BT with large volume sales. BT Global Services have also managed to secure key sole(a) contracts, such as supplying Unilever with a four year contract. By securing these contracts, BT have pushed out the competition and have created an opportunity for them to extend these contracts in the future (Harris, 2010International, 2010BT Plc, 2009).WeaknessesA large weakness that BTGS possess is relatively high executive management turnover, since 2001 BTGS has seen many changes in management which may have diluted the companys strategic vision (BBC, 2001 BT Plc, 2010 Servicedesk, 2009 Glick, 2008).Finally, the need for an extensive global network is a necessity for BTGS, without it they have no value on their products from their clients perspective. These network infrastructures carry high maintenance costs and must be constantly innovated to compete effectively.7. Evaluation of StrategyOverall BT Global Services strategy seems to be overdependent on joint ventures which have led BT into large debt problems. Evidence for this can be seen in their financial reports as they coincide with the break up of their joint venture New Concert BTGS suffered a loss of 1,459m in 2003 surprising ly after they recorded their largest profit of 8,911m in 2001 (FAME, 2011). Whilst their turnover has been steadily increasing from 2006, BTGS management have been unable to make consistent gains on their return on total assets (FAME, 2011). This could be because of the senior management not efficiently utilising their assets.Their trade-off of excluding offering domestic telecommunication products globally has, in my opinion, been a good strategic move because, for example the US market for Ethernet services is saturated with uncut competition (Vertical, 2007). Their strategy of focusing on multinational corporations fits well with their other operationsThe deregulation of telecommunications has had a large impact on their global strategy as governments in developing countries lift competition rules to end state owned monopolies (Poh, 1994). This deregulation has allowed BT to branch out internationally and to set up global networks to offer their prospective clients.Since the ba nking crisis, BT Groups share price has been steadily rising, however this may not be due to Global Services but other operations of the group such as BT Retail or BT Innovate, therefore it is difficult to judge BTGS strategys success on the groups overall share performance (London Stock Exchange, 2011).8. findingIn conclusion, BT Global services strategy can be viewed as insufficient. Their strategy has proved successful in the fact that they are acquiring exclusive contracts steadily increasing their total revenue over the past five years and maintaining themselves as one of the largest international telecommunications company. One the other hand, they have been incurring large losses and sub optimal return on assets shedding a pessimistic view on the strategys success.Their external and internal environment can be seen as contradictory the limited threat to new entrants and their large client base show a favourable business environment, however their current competitors and the need to maintain such a large infrastructure pose a great threat.9. RecommendationsTaking into consideration BT Global Services past strategic history and their internal and external environment, recommendations to improve their global strategy would includeCreating and sustaining a clear strategic vision by maintaining key senior management staff, by doing this BTGS will be able to maintain their objectives in accordance to their joint ventures, a problem they had with Concert.Truly differentiating themselves from ATT and Verizon Business, these two companies offer very similar IT and telecoms solutions to multinational corporations Innovating will help create a temporary competitive advantage.Focusing on the European telecommunications market to continue securing key exclusive contracts with multinational corporations head-quartered there to take advantage of the strength that the BT brand has in that region.10. ReferencesAndersen, T. J. (2004) Integrating the Strategy Formation P rocess An International Perspective. European Management Journal, Vol. 22, No. 3, pp. 263-372Ansoff, H. I., Avner, J., Brandenburg R. G., Portner, F. E., Radosevich, R. (1970) Does supplying Pay? The Effect of Planning on Success of Acquisitions in American Firms. Long Range Planning, DecemberATT (2011) Our Global Story. Online Accessed on 01/02/2011 http//www.corp.att.com/globalnetworking/our_global_story.htmlBBC news (2001) BT chief discontinue early. BBC Online 31st October Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/1629621.stmBBC discussion (2001) BT plans to break losing streak . BBC Online 4th December Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/1691580.stmBBC News (2001) BT to ditch ATT venture .BBC Online 20th April Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/1287589.stmBBC News (1999) Business The Company File BT expands into China. BBC Online eighth April Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/the_company_fil e/314264.stmBBC News (2009) Global IT unit knocks BT profits. BBC Online 30th July Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/8176033.stmBBC News (2001) QA What now for BT?. BBC Online 10th May Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/1323096.stmBT Plc (2010) Annual General Meeting. BT Group Plc. Online July Accessed on 02/03/2011 http//www.btplc.com/Sharesandperformance/AGMs/AGM2010/AGM2010slides.pdfBT Plc (2011) Around BT Global Services. BT Today. February 2011. pp 39-41.BT Plc (2009) BT Global Services provides full IP convergence project for Roberto Cavalli Group. BT Press releases Online 19th November Accessed on 02/03/2011 http//www.btplc.com/News/Articles/Showarticle.cfm?ArticleID=A0C112A6-D3B5-47C5-B26D-383B12658748BT Plc (2010) Investor Day Part 1. Online Accessed on 26/02/2011 http//www.btplc.com/Sharesandperformance/Quarterlyresults/Financialpresentations/q410Investor1.pdfBT Plc (2010) Jeff Kelly joins BT as chief executive officer BT Gl obal Services Online Accessed on 02/03/2011http//www.btplc.com/news/Articles/ShowArticle.cfm?ArticleID=0D9B24BA-B757-4880-95AB-5B0820E975A5BT Plc (2002) Risk Factors. Online Accessed on 01/03/2011 http//www.btplc.com/report/risk.shtmlBT Plc (2011) The historical development of BT. Online Accessed on 27/02/2011 http//www.btplc.com/Thegroup/BTsHistory/History.htmDe Wit, B and Meyer, R. (2004) Strategy Process, Content, Context. 3rd Edition. LondonDouglas, S., Wind, Y. (1987) The Myth of Globalisation. Columbia Journal of World Business, WinterFagan, M. (1994) ATT readies for battle with BT Granting of licence to US giant sets scene for new wave of competition in British telephone services. The Independent. Online 9th July Accessed on 01/03/2011 http//www.independent.co.uk/news/business/att-readies-for-battle-with-bt-granting-of-licence-to-us-giant-sets-scene-for-new-wave-of-competition-in-british-telephone-services-1412595.htmlFAME (2011) Company report BT Global Services Limited Onl ine Accessed on 03/03/2011 Available from FAMEForbes, C. (2010), Strategic Change, Lecture/Class, Manchester Metropolitan University, unpublished.Gardiner, P. D., Turner, C. (2007) De-internationalisation and global strategy the case of British Telecomunications (BT). Journal of Business Industrial Marketing, Vol. 22 Iss7, pp 489-497.Glick, B. (2008) BT Global Services chief quits after profit warning Online Computing.co.uk Accessed on 02/03/2011 http//www.computing.co.uk/ctg/news/1859249/bt-global-services-chief-quits-profit-warningHarris, N. (2010) BT will continue providing the phone and internet services for the Department for Work and Pension. Online ITPro Accessed on 02/03/2011 http//www.itpro.co.uk/620347/dwp-extends-bt-service-contract-worth-237-millionHorsburgh, S. (2011) Strategy Formation. Lecture/Class, Manchester Metropolitan University, Unpublished.International Business propagation (2010) Unilever signs 173 million IT services contract with BT Global. Online Accesse d on 02/03/2011 http//uk.ibtimes.com/articles/35898/20100715/unilever-signs-it-services-contract-bt-global.htmLevitt, T. (1983) The globalization of markets. Harvard Business Review. May-JuneLondon Stock Exchange (2011) BT Group PLC ORD 5p Online Assesed on 26/02/2011 http//www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/prices-and-markets/stocks/summary/company-summary.html?fourWayKey=GB0030913577GBGBXSET1McIntosh (2000) BT wrestles with internal divisions over strategy The independent Online 19th September Accessed on 01/03/2011 http//www.independent.co.uk/news/business/analysis-and-features/bt-wrestles-with-internal-divisions-over-strategy-700126.htmlOvum (2009) BT Global Services Scores First Online Accessed on 03/03/2011 www.globalservices.bt.com/ dormant/assets/pdf/Insights%20and%20Ideas/Ovum%20Research%20-%20BT%20Global%20Services%20Scores%20First.pdfPappalardo, D. and Mears, J. (2002) ATT spells out international strategy. Network World Online Accessed on 01/03/2011 http//www.networkwo rld.com/news/2002/129527_01-28-2002.htmlPlunkett Research Ltd (2010) Telecommunications Industry Overview. Online Accessed 28/02/2011 http//www.plunkettresearch.com/telecommunications%20market%20research/industry%20statisticsPoh, L.C. (1994) The Liberalisation and Privitaisation of Telecommunications in Singapore. Online Accessed on 02/03/2011 http//www.ida.gov.sg/News%20and%20Events/20050727180231.aspx?getPagetype=21Porter, M.E. (1979) How Competitive Forces Shape Strategy. Harvard business Review, July/August 1997Porter, M. (1996) What is Strategy?. Harved Business Review, November-DecemberPritchard, J., Armistead, C. (1999) Business process management lessons from European business, Business Process Management Journal, Vol. 5 Iss 1, pp.10 35Servicedesk360 (2009) BT Global Services welcomes new chief. Online Accessed on 01/03/2011 http//www.servicedesk360.com/archives/?p=937Vertical Systems Group (2007) Ethernet Services Market Update. Online Accessed on 02/03/2011 http//www.twt elecom.com/Documents/Announcements/News/2007/VSG_TWTC_Mid_year07Ethernet.pdf

The Cultural Capital Defined Cultural Studies Essay

The heathen Capital Defined pagan Studies EssayThe chapter provides a theoretical under stand up of ethnic crownwork from the perspective of ethnical with child(p) from the perspective of amuses consumption. Scholarly journals argon reviewed to give readers an understanding of the contri only whenion of ethnic capital made in the expanse of athletic contests. The chapter commences with broad issues concerning the topic and narrowed to focus on the reputation in gold coast.2.1 Cultural capital definedCultural capital surfaced in academic croak approximately 25 old age ago in the work of Bourdieu and Gouldner, and after that references were made in other fields as evolutionary biology (Cohen, cited in Ahbeysekera et. Al, 2004) a literary criticism (Guillory, 1993).Bourdieu from whizz angle sees capital as power, in this case the power stems from a communal or structural take down which accumulates power for a person to gain an economic favour in the short or long term (Bourdieu, 1990). From another angle and with reference to linguistic and ethnical capital, Bourdieu advances a case that parent of the middle straighten out use cultural capital to propagate and advance their economic fortunes (Bourdieu, 1984).Several studies have attributed cultural capital as being embedded in family background and genteelness and have made connections between value based power and having various fictitious characters of cultural capital (Gayo-Cal, Savage, and Warde, 2006 Warde, 2006 Warde, Martens, and Olsen. 1999).Bourdieu 1997 identifies the three form of cultural capital as Embodied, Objectified and Institutional cultural capital. Embodied cultural capital is explained as the permanent nature of the point and body (Bourdieu, 1997). Objectified cultural capital is better explained through with(predicate) its operation. Examples are the interpretation of say, paintings or the ability to play instruments. As Bourdieu point s out one butt fully calculate objectified cultural capital except they can afford its consumption (Bourdieu, 1997 Silva, 2006). This explanation in a way demonstrates how objectified cultural capital is learnt or passed on over time, according to Sullivan, 2001 families with well-resourced cultural capital pass on through a mechanism of hands on tutoring through their shrive time by attending art exhibitions, theaters, highlighting form the need for education and mannerism. Institutional cultural capital according to Bourdieu is the official and systemized recognition accorded twain embodied and objectified forms of cultural capital. Through this system the tangible value of the capital is scaled and its extrinsic value made legitimate (Bourdieu, 1997). match to Bourdieu 1984 education through formal means is one of the key sources of cultural capital as teaches learners the intangible values associated with cultural knowledge. The nature of foundational cultural capital in supporting emblematic value shapes and improves society. This form of cultural capital and the social structure it provides makes for a personally advantaged position (Bourdieu and Wacquant, 1992).In looking at the race between cultural capital and social status and also showing the essence of rare highbrow cultural capital to social status, a study conducted indicated that high class socio-economic groups had access and could to relate to an array of cultural capital forms compared to the lower groups (Peterson and Kern, 1996).2.2 Capital and symbolicalal powerAccording to Bourdieu 1990 power is imagined as symbolic power created through discretionary values associated with various types of economic, social and cultural capital that people own. One of the crucial points that have come out strongly is the link of cultural capital to symbolic power and how this creates distinction allowing higher social status in society through symbolic capital. According to Bourdieu 1997 symbolic capital creates benefits through tangible properties, such as material acquisitions, which further puts those who own it at an advantage. This claim for higher power is emphasized and legitimized through symbolic capital (Swartz, 1997). As symbolic systems are grounded within society these structures shape and inform our habitus and serially create permanent characters learnt over a period that inform the way people think of the social environment and the way people function in it (Bourdieu, 1990 Swartz, 1997 Edwards, 2009).2.3 Cultural Consumption of SportsSporting preferences are made on social and cultural reproduction and class lines on the same directions as the preference for music and the arts (Bourdieu 1978 1984). He mentioned that various sports are pecked differently in the social and cultural hierarchy. Wilson 2002 states that according to Bourdieu (1978 1984) each sport requires the suitable taste and preference and a peculiar sets of skills and knowledge to partake which he calls cultural capital. Separation among people is created through taste consumption and acts a means of social distinction among people. A group through its taste and preferences can align or disassociate itself from society and can be used to create some status for the niche separating it from the mass appeal taste of the equaliser of the group. Holt (1998) argues that the things that are valued in domains as the arts and theater attendance are mystified in rituals of taste and consumption. In the quest to improve ones standing in society and better the lifes of their descendants theres is a perpetual pursuit of improving ones social standing in a progressive manner so as to restore the stratified position. DiMaggio and Useem 1978 summed this up by saying accumulated cultural capital improves opportunities in life by turning this capital advantage into social and economic progress in future. The hierarchies within society are crucial in understanding the contour of people that attend high cultural acti vities (DiMaggio and Useem, 1978 Matty, 2004 Tampubolon, 2007).It has been identified in a couple of research studies that sport is less developed when compared to other consumption fields. Indeed, it was noted by Warde 2006 that Bourdieu acknowledges the essence of sports and body alimentation in the storage and exhibition of cultural capital. Bourdieu also noted that ones sporting appeal is complimentary to their lifestyle and serves as a distinction from others (Warde, 2006). In his study- cultural capital and the range of sports, Warde 2006 revealed that the high class society had taste for rare sports, not only that but Wilson 2002 in his study- paradox of social class and sports involvement, reinforces Bourdieus mannikin that those with highly accumulated wealth tend to participate in sports largely but also more inclined to dissociate themselves from circular sports.The type of sports chosen by people to participate in cannot entirely be dependent on the cultural resource factors, as noted by Warde 2006 in his face study, gender, age, ethnicity contributed to the pattern of sports participation. Also, there have been overwhelming support provided in literature that beyond cultural capital ones socio-economic position, education, gender influenced their choice of sporting activity (Sturgis and Jackson, 2003 Gayo-Cal, 2006).2.4 Patterns of Cultural CapitalA survey (2003-2004) conducted by the centre for research into socio-economic change (CRESC) UK to examine nature of cultural capital in the UK and the degree to which cultural capital can aggregate or disaggregate social groups. The survey used 1564 respondents and the results revealed a clear distinction taste, cognition and participation in across gender, education and class across cultural fields among others music, visual arts, dining out (Gayo-Cal et al., 2006 Gayo-Cal, Warde, and Tampubolon, 2005). The groups that had higher education and those within higher social class were highly involved in cultural activity than their lower level counterparts respectively in the area of education and social class. in that location were indication from the preliminary results that education and the hierarchy of task was passed onto generations such that parents with high education ensure that their children get equal or if not better opportunities to ensure better opportunities and rewarding jobs (Gayo-Cal et al., 2006).Along work lines, Bennett et al. 2011 established that employers, managers and master copys are well informed on cultural artifacts in its widest form by lower class with a higher degree of cultural education whether formal or informal. This point was reinforced by Erickson 1996 that managers tend to be more informed on relatively more cultural domains due to their professional function to interact with more people. There is suggestion that occupations embrace professionals with compatible cultural capital merit as the professional are able to appreciate and compr ehend occupation standards (Sommerland, 2007) and the amount of cultural capital held can be important (Peterson and Kern, 1996).2.5 Cultural Capital and SportsIt is often usual to see some kind of sports activity in societies irrespective of the part of the world and this can be attributed to wanting to associate with a group. According to Etizen and Sage 2003 sports is counted as part of the fewer human activities that can bond a community in any part of the world. Weiss 2001 concedes that few people participate in sports for wellbeing but for the volume it is as a result of the quest to align and identify with others and also reinforce their personalities. Consequently sports can be engaged so as to establish ones cultural identity (Stodolska and Alexandris, 2004).Contrary to the above sports can be used as a catalyst for exclusion and propagate selectivity among groups and people. Culturally popular sports are recognized and given more attention giving them more social capital and power (Light and Kirk 2001). For instance social groups including families reproduce social advantages through cliquish school attendance which is recognized for its exclusivity (Light and Kirk, 2001).The absence of partaking in any sports activity is tantamount to societal isolation and this result in anti-social tendencies that pave the way on cutting ones chances of socialization, education and professional ascension (Majumdar, 2003). Cricket in India is a good example of such marked exclusion. Corporate sponsors have branded the gritty as elitist and the sole preserve of the educated and affluent sine post-independence (Majumdar, 2003). Corporate Institutions have clear policies for player recruitment and they attach a great lead of importance to education this also is a criteria in terms of their reward system as the level of ones education affects how much salary one receives. There is monopoly through high fees from cricket clubs preventing the less privileged to have access to the sports (Majumbar, 2003). It is paramount to appreciate what leads to the standstill of particular groups of people with certain sports activities and its function in the reproduction of socio-economic differences in a society (Washington and Karen, 2001). Ii is the duty of incumbent spots managers to ascertain the relationship between sports participation and socio-cultural capital in night club to phantom how to equalize this inequality and give the less privileged adequate representation if desired.Globalization has marginalized traditional cultures and ethnic social systems and promoting identical societies (Hochschild, 2006). Despite this spheric approach of uniformity and the expression of western views sports can also promote the minority groups by playing a role in maintaining foreign identities and belongings dominant national ties (Giossos, 2008 Lee, 2006). International sporting activities like the Olympics, Commonwealth games and FIFA worldcup are avenu es for fans and participants to establish and exhibit their cultural affiliation (Yoh, Yang and Gordon, 2008).2.6 Sports fans and consumptionA fan is emotional and committed of a particular sports consumptive object (Hunt, Bristol and Bashaw, 1999). In this regard a fan is a consumer of an organize sport. The term committed shows the level of supplement fans associate with the sports. Fans are also driven to act for the sport. A sport consumption object can be the sport, team or even the create leaque or personalities like players, coaches/ managers, commentators who are strongly associated with a sport. Several fans exist as they differ in their behavior and motivation (Hunt, Bristol and Bashaw, 1999). Current concepts have pore on team performance as the main driver of fan behavior (Cialdidni et al., 1976 Grove et al., 1991 Mann, 1974 Wann and Dolan, 1994).Our appreciation sports fan is limited and fan motivation and its consequent behavior extend teams and certain situations have no connection to team performance (Fisher and Wakefield, 1998). In addition, most studies have concentrated on ticket sales and game attendance as the ultimate goal in the exchange between sports marketers and fans. Beyond this, sports marketing involve corporate sponsorship, sports prafenelia, sovenirs, stadia branding, sports publications and others (Bandyopadhyaya and Bottone, 1997). Thus the need to transfigure research study into other areas to fill the gaps identified in fan behavior and consumption.2.7 Sports consumption- fandom and cults in sportsFan is the short version of fanatic and entreats religion in sporting contest and competitions (Borland and Macdonald, 2003). Fandom is part of the system of sports instituted so that people can be part of the game without partaking (Branscombe et al., 1991). The concept inspires social advantages as togetherness, belongingness and fraternity but also self-esteem (Zillman et al., 1993). Fans get ecstatic by the mere fact that they are fans (Kimble and Cooper, 1992). This passion and energy which is transformed into the mood of the fans is determined by the sport they are supporting and the outcome of a game lingers onto other unrelated activities immediately after (Hirt et al., 1992). He also defines fandom as an association to a sport/ team with great deal of emotional importance and treasure from this membership (Hirt et al., 1992).A follower of sport does not translate to mean they are fans (Funk and James, 2001). notwithstanding distinction is provided on what constitutes a follower and a fan of sports, followers witness a game without much attachment but fans are hot in supports and transcends beyond watching a game, they are committed on a daily basis (Jones, 1997). Several distinctions have been made between who a follower of a sport is compared to a fan and this borders on the degree of emotional attachment and level of commitment offered by the supporter (Anderson, 1979 Hunt et al., 1999 Stew art and Smith, 1997 Tapp and Clowes, 2002 Pimentel and Reynolds, 2004). According to Wann and Pierce (2003) the accuracy of measurement of the level of identification/commitment is essential to sports psychologists and marketers due to the fact that the degrees of response of sports fans are usually a function of their commitment and level of association with the sport.Sports consumption creates fandom as seen above and this has the tendencies of creating cults in sports. As witnessed earlier in the section being a part of like-minded people is rewarding and one of the key ingredients of cult and cult brands is that they maintain the distinction that keeps their members together (Atkins, 2004) and therefore alienate others by this same argument. On the surface it may seem that cult is non-existent in the domain of sports as this is usually associated to religion. It has been argued that sports is competitive, versatile and a personal activity contrary to religion which is grounded on a communal system and is non-competitive in nature (Prebish, 1993).A sport is likened to religion and because it is rooted in a natural cause (Novak, 1995). Further, Brody (1979) that the joint nature of supporters of organized sports is partly religious in nature. The important point is how groupings are created and the resulting in exclusion of others. According to Percy and Taylor (1991) followers of teams maintain rituals of essential symbolic artifacts as apparels, food and type of allies they choose which are sacred in the ritual of sports.2.8 Sports AffiliationMembership of a group is driven by the aspiration to keep a distinction from other social groups (Madrigal, 2002). An aspect of membership identification and affiliation is the act of rites such as gathering souvenirs, match attendance and considering the sport as part of ones identity. There is strength and a sense of identity in associating with a group. There is difficulty in creating self-images in the absence o f group association (Tajfel, 1982). Closer ties with a group allow individuals to borrow the positive traits of a group for oneself and take on more commonality with others within the group (Fisher and Wakefield, 1998 Tajfel and Turner, 1986).Cultural capital is gained by sports fans through the adoption of labels (Richardson, 2004) from the group- the appreciation of how to consume in the socially sanctioned manner.2.9 History of gold coast SportsThe subject of cultural capital and Ghana sports can be located in the grounds sporting history and particularly football and the love the people of Ghana have for the game. Ghana has a productive football heritage with a great deal of chronicled successes, includes memorable milestones as producing Arthur Wharton, the first black professional footballer in the English game (Ghanaian Times. 2011 29) Ghana won the African Cup of Nations football tournament four times. Football clubs like Accra Hearts of Oak have chalked over 100 years wit h enviable local and continental record Hearts won the first ever football league in Ghana, an unprecedented six consecutive occasions, an unbeaten season and three continental- Confederations of Africa (CAF) trophies (Daily Graphic, 201231). Football is a competitive sport in Ghana attracting huge following and its nature of consumption is diverse. Football has produced fan groups along ethnic and regional lines in the country and families have a generation of loyalty to particular clubs. Above all, sports in Ghana tend to follow Bourdieus image of distinction in consumption by virtue of ones cultural capital and appreciation of a sport. Golf, has only received some attention in the country in recent years due to the enormous attraction it receives from corporate institutions. Golf is second to football as far as private vault of heaven sponsorship funds is concerned (Anonymous, 2007).The overarching institution in charge of sports in the country is the National sports and came to effect through a presidential declaration. The National sports council is in place to improve, promulgate, and manage sports in the country with aim of fostering nationalism and professionalism that drives consistent wealth creation and infrastructural improvement (Anonymous, 2007). It is interesting to note that a similar institution the Gold Coast Amateur Sports Council existent in the Gold Coast, then Ghana established under the enactment of Ordinance 14, 1952 (www.sportscouncil.com.gh).

Psychological, Philosophical and Religious Elements of Heart of Darknes

Psychological, Philosophical and Religious Elements of Heart of wickedness Heart of Darkness is a kind of little world unto itself. The reader of Conrads Heart of Darkness should take the time to consider this work from a psychological point of view. There are, after all, an awful lot of heads and skulls in the book, and Conrad goes egress of his way to suggest that in some sense Marlows journey is like a dream or a return to our primitive past--an exploration of the bleached recesses of the human mind. Looking at the book from a psychological outdoor stage, there are apparent similarities to the psychological theories of Sigmund Freud in its suggestion that dreams are a confidential information to hidden areas of the mind, and that at the heart of things--which Freud called the Id--we are all primitive brutes and savages, capable of the most appalling wishes and the most horrifying impulses. Through Freud, or other systems of pattern that resemble Freuds, we can make sense of the urge Marlow feels to leave his boat and join the natives for a savage whoop and hollar (Tessitore, 42). We might even, in this light, notice that Marlow keeps press that Kurtz is a voice--a voice who seems to speak to him out of the heart of the immense darkness--and so perhaps he can be thought of, in a sense, as the voice of Marlows own deepest, psychological self. Of course, we must remember that it is doubtful Conrad had ever heard Sigmund Freud when he set out to write the book. Although a psychological viewpoint is very useful, it does not speak to the whole of our experience of the book. Heart of Darkness is also concerned with philosophy and religion. This concern manifests itself in the way Conrad plays with the concept of pilgrims and pilgrimag... ...f Darkness 3rd ed. Ed. Robert Kimbrough. New York Norton Critical, 1988.Meyers, Jeffrey. Joseph Conrad. New York Charles Scribners Sons, 1991. Sarvan, C. P. Racism and the Heart of Darkness. Heart of Darkness. By Jos eph Conrad 3rd ed. Ed. Robert Kimbrough. New York Norton Critical 1988.Tessitore, John. Freud, Conrad, and Heart of Darkness. Modern Critical Interpretations. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York Chelsea House Publishers, 1987. 91-103.Tripp, Rhoda Thomas. thesaurus of Quotations. New York Thomas Y. Crowell, 1970. Kristeva, Julia. Within the Microcosm of The Talking Cure. Interpreting Lacan. Eds. Joseph Smith and William Kerrigan. New Haven Yale UP, 1983.Zizek, Slavoj. The Truth Arises from Misrecognition. Lacan and the Subject of Language. Eds. Ellie Ragland-Sullivan and Mark Bracher. New York Routledge, 1991.

Mars landing and probes :: essays research papers

Mars (Greek Ares) is the god of War. The planet probably got this name due to its red color Mars is sometimes referred to as the Red Planet. (An interesting side note the Roman god Mars was a god of agriculture before becoming associated with the Greek Ares those in promote of colonizing and terraforming Mars may prefer this symbolism.) The name of the month March derives from Mars. Mars has been known since prehistoric times. It is still a favorite of science fiction writers as the most favorable place in the Solar System (other than Earth) for human habitation. But the famous "canals" "seen" by Lowell and others were, unfortunately, just as imaginary as Barsoomian princesses. The first spacecraft to visit Mars was Mariner 4 in 1965. Several others followed including Mars 2, the first spacecraft to land on Mars and the deuce Viking landers in 1976 (left). Ending a long 20 year hiatus, Mars Pathfinder landed successfully on Mars on 1997 July 4 (right). In 2004 the M ars Expedition Rovers "Spirit" and "Opportunity" landed on Mars sending back geologic data and many pictures. Mars orbit is significantly elliptical. mavin result of this is a temperature variation of active 30 C at the subsolar point between aphelion and perihelion. This has a major influence on Mars climate. While the average out temperature on Mars is about 218 K (-55 C, -67 F), Martian clear temperatures range widely from as little as 140 K (-133 C, -207 F) at the wintertime pole to almost 300 K (27 C, 80 F) on the day side during summer. Though Mars is much smaller than Earth, its surface area is about the same as the land surface area of Earth. Except for Earth, Mars has the most highly varied and interesting terrain of any of the terrestrial planets, some of it sort of spectacular Olympus Mons the largest mountain in the Solar System rising 24 km (78,000 ft.) above the surrounding plain. Its base is more than 500 km in diameter and is rimmed by a cliff 6 km (20,000 ft) high (right). Tharsis a huge bulge on the Martian surface that is about 4000 km across and 10 km high. Valles Marineris a system of canyons 4000 km long and from 2 to 7 km deep (top of page) Hellas Planitia an impact crater in the southern hemisphere over 6 km deep and 2000 km in diameter.