Research Paper on movie Harold and Maude from 1971 Essay

Research Paper on movie Harold and Maude from 1971 - Essay Example In addition Harold is obsessed with death and funerals and happens to attend strange funerals for fun. In the process of attending these funerals Harold meets Maude an elderly ex-concentration camp lady. The main theme is fixed on Harold who befriends the 79 old women named Maude. Harold lived in a big mansion with his mother where he attempts mock suicides and also attends funerals for people he didn’t know, he finally meets Maude the old woman and they become friends. However the two friends are directly in contrast of each other whereby Harold has no meaning in the society he lives in while the old woman who has been to concentration camp marked by her tattooed ID on her arm is light hearted, energetic and a senior citizen.```````` Every actor in this movie seems to have his/her own way of thinking or acting. Within the cast we expect that Mrs. Chasen and her son should have been very close. But as it turns out each is pre occupied with their own issues. Mrs. Chasen seems much pre-occupied with her social image and her businesses at the expense of her son’s social life. Ironically we would have expected that Harold and Maude should find nothing common between them but as the movie unfolds we see that the two find solace in each other to an extent that they fall in love with each other. Identify any stimulus that may be prompting behaviors. The entire story line is a mixed outcome of behavior changes that arise out of social interactions that act as the stimulus for behavior change. From the onset Harold’s behavior as an introverted rich kid who is only obsessed or fascinated by death is a behavior he has adopted that is as a result of his mother’s actions. Mrs. Chasens actions act as the stimulating factors for Harold’s behavior change. Instead of Mrs. Chasen treating her son Harold as a mature 20 year old she treats him as a baby and want

Time Catherine and Rodolfo Essay Example for Free

Time Catherine and Rodolfo Essay Eddie asks Rodolfo if he has ever boxed before. Rodolfo says no, and Eddie asks if he would like him to show him how it done. Reluctantly Rodolfo agrees. Rodolfo doesnt want to box, but he is so desperate to please Eddie that he agrees. Eddie only wants to make a fool out of Rodolfo. After the fight it is as if the fight has enlightened Rodolfo, he now half realises, that Eddie dislikes him completely, and there is nothing he can do to correct that. Rodolfo asks Catherine to dance. This is done to annoy Eddie, and it works just as Rodolfo wished it to. We now come to the end of act 1. We have seen most aspects of each persons personality, and where they stand in the story. WE shall now discover what lengths each character will go to, to have his/her own way. Alfieri introduces this act, back in the roll of narrator. He tells us the date, the 23rd of December. He also tells us that it is the first time Catherine and Rodolfo have been alone in the house together. One of the earlier excuses Eddie had given to Catherine why she should not marry Rodolfo, was because Eddie thought all that Rodolfo wanted from her was rights to be a citizen. Catherine asks Rodolfo, as a test, if she wanted to, if they could live in Italy when they get married. Rodolfo hates the idea, which only worries Catherine even more. It seems now that everyone except Eddie and Catherine realise Eddies infatuation with Catherine is serious. And here, Catherine starts to realise it too. When Eddie gets home and realises that Catherine and Rodolfo have slept together; Eddie goes mad and his immediate reaction is to tell Rodolfo to pack his bags and leave. Catherine faces up to the situation finally and tells Eddie that she must go with Eddie. Eddie denies her the right completely and refuses to let Catherine go. In Catherines next piece of dialogue we see all her problems come out in her words. She loves Eddie, but not in the same way that he loves her. She wants to stay with Rodolfo because she is the one she truly loves, but Eddie does not want Catherine to go with Rodolfo, and Catherine knows this and does not want to upset Eddie. She knows that she must upset Eddie, as it is the only way out of the situation. Eddie tells her that she: Aint goin nowheres And then he kisses her on the lips. Why does he do that, is he finally facing up to his feelings? Rodolfo lunges at Eddie in anger, but Rodolfo is no match for Eddie, and Eddie merely pins him and then kisses him. This kiss is to ridicule Rodolfo, to show Catherine that she should not marry someone so weak as to let another man kiss him. Or maybe he does this because he thinks that Rodolfo is homosexual. After this scene the play suddenly calms down and becomes certainly more serene. Alfieri narrates, and then turns to when Eddie comes to see him. From what Eddie says, it seems that Eddie got his way. He tells Alfieri that Beatrice is renting a room for Marco and Rodolfo. Eddie wants to know again, if there is anything he can do. Alfieri tells him, Morally and legally you have no rights, you cannot stop it; she is a free agent. This is in regard to Rodolfo marrying Catherine. When Eddie finally excepts it. A telephone glows on the opposite side of the stage, and Alfieri realises what Eddie is going to do. He shouts after him, You wont have a friend in the world Eddie! Even those who understand will turn against you, even the ones who feel the same will despise you! Put it out of your mind! Eddie! This is the last piece of advice Eddie is given, and he does not listen to it. He telephones the immigration bureau and reports two illegal immigrants. At home he acts as if he has done nothing. He argues with Beatrice normally, as if he has no guilt for what he has done. Catherine tells Eddie of her and Rodolfos plans of marriage. He gets upset despite the fact that he knows they will never marry. Just before the immigration officers arrive, Eddie realises what he has done and screams at Beatrice and Catherine to get Rodolfo and Marco out of the house, but it is too late. The immigration officers arrive, both Beatrice and Catherine realise what Eddie has done. Catherine streaks into the bedroom and Beatrice stares at him in horror. Eddie tries to deny it. But there is nothing he can do. He has done it now. The scene now is all of his friends, leaving him, just like Alfieri said they would, one by one they leave Eddie standing there alone, and they only person left is Beatrice. The next scene involves Marco, Alfieri, Catherine and Rodolfo. Alfieri tells Marco that there is a chance that Rodolfo can stay and marry Catherine, but he will have to go back to his country, but as long as he promises not to try to kill or in any way harm Eddie, he could possibly get bail. Marco finds it difficult, but agrees that he will not harm Eddie. The scene changes back to just before the wedding, Eddie will not permit Beatrice to go to the wedding, Catherine is outraged, and tries to persuade Beatrice but they are interrupted by Rodolfo who shouts, Marco is coming, Eddie He knows that Marco will kill Eddie, but Eddie will not move, no matter how much Beatrice tries to persuade him. Rodolfo tries to apologise to Eddie, is he apologising because hes not a man or because he is more than a man? Eddie wants to fight to prove that he is a man, and Marco wants to fight to show people what he did to him, to get his revenge in a way. Eddie seems to be finding it hard to stay sain. Eddie could easily walk away, but he doesnt want to because of Sicilian honour. The knife, which Eddie is ready to kill Marco with, kills him. His lasts words are to Beatrice, which is interesting, and shows that maybe thats what it took for him to realise that what he had before with Beatrice meant so much more. The play finishes with a speech by Alfieri. A line, which means a lot, is: For that I think I will love him more than any of my sensible clients It is making a joke out of a clearly unfunny situation, but it lightens the play, and it is a good time to put it in. It finishes with: And so I mourn him I admit it with a certain alarm. This is a very good place to end the play. Alfieri was the unbiased character who gave us an all-round view, and was a good friend to all the characters involved.

Effective Use of Conflict in Shakespeares As You Like It Essay

As You Like It: Effective Use of Conflict It is easy enough to discount the presence of conflict within As You Like It, swept away as we are by the sparkling wit of the play, its numerous songs, and the use of stage spectacle (such as the masque of Hymen). But precisely what enables Arden to have such a profound effect on the visitors (Rosalind, Orlando, Duke Senior et al.) is the fact that it is a retreat from the "painted pomp" of the "envious court". The twisted morality of the court, where Duke Frederick hates Rosalind for her virtue, is very much necessary for the purpose of the drama of the play; it is only through the disparity between the court and the Forest of Arden that there is dramatic significance in the movement to Arden and the play of Arden. So while the world of As You Like It is one of reduced intensity (even while the cynic Jacques is loved by the Duke Senior, who loves to "cope him in his sullen fits"), it would be too glib to dismiss conflict from the play. Admittedly, much of the charm of the play lies not in the perfunctory plot: the news told by Charles, about Duke Senior's banishment to a place where he and his followers "fleet the time carelessly" like Robin Hood and his merry men, is so old that its only purpose seems to be to speed up the exposition. As You Like It entices us because it is willing to sacrifice plot considerations and credibility -- for instance, in the sudden transformations of Oliver and Duke Frederick -- to pursue seemingly pointless moments such as the songs. The sheer number of musical interludes, from "Blow, blow, thou winter wind" to "What shall we ... ...ibutes to the play's charms as William is summarily dismissed by Touchstone (using his wit as usual); this satire of the pastoral convention of overcoming obstacles to love is humorous. Likewise, Phebe's insults of Silvius and Ganymede's chiding of Phebe draws laughter from the audience. To conclude, therefore, conflict is not absent from the play totally. It is As You Like It's knowledge and recognition of the dangers of love "Men have died from time to time, and worms have eaten them, but not for love" and is still capable of being love struck: the affection being like "Bay of Portugal", and how it plays off that against the comedic exuberance of its interludes, verbal sparring and digressionary expositions, that provides the drama of the play. "Sweet", indeed, "are the uses of adversity".

Planned Parenthood and Teen Awareness Group (TGA) Essay

The Teen Awareness Group or TGA is an educational program that is sponsored by Planned Parenthood in East Central Illinois. The aim of TGA is to mobilize specific age groups within the community to teach the younger population about teen pregnancy and other related issues. The ultimate mission or goal of the TGA is focused on a specific group of people, the youth, as a means to compartmentalize the services provided by Planned Parenthood and in the same way direct attention to vulnerable populations and ensure that specific needs or concerned posed by them are addressed. Another objective and motivation being utilized by Planned Parenthood is the consequences of being unguided throughout a young individual’s life. The organization recognizes through its educational program that undesirable results, such as unwanted teen pregnancy, etc. , are results of uninformed decision-making and an unguided life. Through education, TGA aims to teach the youth to become more responsible and aware. The program does not only benefit the youth in terms of being educated and guided. It also empowers them to become socially conscious of their responsibilities in terms of helping other people within the same age group to face challenges by becoming part time workers for the organization. Peer educators will be trained to be competent enough for the job requirements, and they should also be able to attend set meetings as required. Individuals who are eligible to join the cause should be between fourteen to eighteen years of age. The schools they are attending should be within the Bloomington-Normal and Champaign areas only. Aside from peer educators, individuals who will be joining the program will also be able to communicate with adults who are more experienced in the area. Planned Parenthood operates for TGA by coordinating with schools within the areas mentioned. Peer educators and individuals who want to join the program are asked to communicate with representatives working in their schools to be informed of how to join the cause whether as the subject or the educator. The resources for the programs that are lined up for the TGA are funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program and the Cunningham Township/Urbana City Social Services Funds. Each institutions plays a major role in the production of resources that completes and realizes the purpose of Planned Parenthood through its educational problem facilitated by the TGA.

Compulsive gambling Essay

More than 5 million Americans are pathological, compulsive and problem gamblers, and another 15 million are at risk of becoming just like them. A common definition of problem gambling is: a progressive disorder characterized by a continuous or periodic loss of control over gambling and irrational thinking and behavior despite the consequences. When gambling interferes with any one’s life, it can be categorize as an addiction or disease, just like alcohol and drug addiction is categorize as a disease. A study conducted for the National Gambling Impact Study Commission found that 20 million American have or could develop gambling problems. Also they have estimated those 1. 8 million American adults as well as up to 1. 1 million American adolescents age 12 through 17 engage in severe â€Å"pathological† gambling each year. As legalize gambling has become more common in the United States; problems have sprung up as well. That negative influence is becoming more apparent as gambling is more widely available. It is becoming increasingly easy to gamble in the United States particularly in the last 10 years, and problems with gambling are much more common now than they ever were. Studies show that for every dollar gambling produces for a regional economy, three dollars are lost because of the economic and social cost of gambling. The study has also said that if the government legalizes more gambling, taxpayers will lose money, whether they gamble or not. The gambling industry believes it is just selling an innocent form of family entertainment, but they don’t mention how much the players lose or how gambling encourages addictive behavior or the enormous costs it creates for the rest of society. It has been said that, gamblers with higher counts of gambling symptoms will have higher rates of problem. There many consequences associated with compulsive, pathological and problem gamblers. Examples of such consequences include job and financial problems, divorce, poor health, and criminal involvement. These addictions are the lifeblood of the gambling industry, said an economist from the University of Illinois by name Earl Grinols. He researches and found out, that casinos earn more than half their revenues from compulsive, pathological, and problem gamblers. â€Å"The casino industry is heavily dependent on the revenues of psychologically sick people†, says Grinols. Millions of families are paying a heavy price, not just financially, but also strains in family and marital relationship. Family members of compulsive and pathological gamblers are hurt by their disease, mainly because an emotional withdrawal occurs, which leads to separation.

The Ethanol Subsidy and How Biofuel Tax Incentives Work

The Ethanol Subsidy and How Biofuel Tax Incentives Work The primary ethanol subsidy offered by the federal government is a tax incentive called the Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2004. It took effect in 2005. The ethanol subsidy, which is commonly referred to as the blenders credit, offers ethanol blenders registered with the Internal Revenue Service a tax credit of 45 cents for every gallon of pure ethanol they blend with gasoline. That particular ethanol subsidy cost taxpayers $5.7 billion in foregone revenues in 2011, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, the nonpartisan congressional watchdog agency. Debate Over the Ethanol Subsidy Supporters of the federal ethanol subsidy argue that it encourages production and use of the biofuel and thereby reduces the amount of foreign oil needed to produce gasoline, a step toward energy independence. But critics argue that ethanol burns far less efficiently than gasoline, driving up fuel consumption and that it increases demand for corn for fuel and artificially boosts the cost of farm commodities and retail prices of food. They also say such an incentive is unnecessary because legislation enacted in 2007 requires oil companies to produce 36 billion gallons of biofuels such as ethanol by 2022. While born of good intentions, federal subsidies for ethanol have failed to achieve their intended goals of energy independence, U.S. Sen. Tom Coburn, a Republican from Oklahoma and leading critic of the ethanol subsidy, said in 2011. The effort to Kill the Ethanol Subsidy Coburn led an effort to repeal the ethanol subsidy in June of 2011, saying it was a waste of taxpayer money - he said the Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit cost $30.5 billion from 2005 through 2011 - because consumption remained only a small part of the countrys fuel use. His effort to repeal the ethanol subsidy failed in the Senate by a vote of 59 to 40. While Im disappointed my amendment did not pass, taxpayers should remember that when I offered an amendment to defund the Bridge to Nowhere in Alaska in 2005 we lost that vote 82 to 15, Coburn said in a statement. Over time, however, the will of the people prevailed and Congress was forced to scale back this wasteful and corrupting practice. Today, the earmark favor factory is mostly closed. Only the tax division remains open. Im confident this debate, and many more ahead, will expose the tax code for what it is - an abomination that favors the well-connected over working families and small businesses. History of the Ethanol Subsidy The Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit ethanol subsidy became law on Oct. 22, 2004, when President George W. Bush signed the American Jobs Creation Act into law. Included in that piece of legislation was the Volumetric Ethanol Excise Tax Credit. The initial bill gave ethanol blenders a tax credit of 51 cents for every gallon of ethanol they mixed with gasoline. Congress reduced the tax incentive by 6 cents per gallon as part of the 2008 Farm Bill. According to the Renewable Fuels Association, gasoline refiners and marketers are required to pay the full rate of tax, which is 18.4 cents per gallon on the total gasoline-ethanol mixture but can claim the 45 cents per gallon tax credit or refund for each gallon of ethanol used in the mixture. The ethanol subsidy benefits multibillion-dollar integrated oil companies such as BP, Exxon, and Chevron. The First Ethanol Subsidy The Energy Policy Act of 1978 was the first federal legislative ethanol subsidy. It allowed for a 40-cent tax exemption per gallon of ethanol, according to Purdue University.The Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 increased the tax exemption to 50 cents per gallon of ethanol.The 1990 Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act extended the ethanol subsidy to 2000 but decreased the amount to 54 cents a gallon.The 1998 Transportation Efficiency Act of the 21st Century extended the ethanol subsidy through 2007 but reduced it to 51 cents per gallon by 2005.Bushs signature on the Jobs Creation Act changed the way the modern ethanol subsidy worked. Instead, it offered a straight tax credit to producers, the legislation allowed for the blenders credit. President Trump Protects the Ethanol Subsidy During his 2016 campaign, President Donald Trump came out as one of the ethanol subsidy’s strongest supporters. Speaking in Iowa, where corn is king, on January 21, 2016, he said, â€Å"The EPA should ensure that biofuel . . . blend levels match the statutory level set by Congress,† adding that he was â€Å"was â€Å"there with you [farmers] 100 percent† on continuing federal subsidy for ethanol. â€Å"You’re going to get a really fair shake from me.† After Trump took office in January 2017, all seemed well with the ethanol subsidy until early October, when his own EPA administrator Scott Pruitt announced that the agency was considering lowering the EPA-mandated subsidy payment level for ethanol â€Å"slightly† in 2018. The suggestion sent shockwaves through the Corn Belt and its Republican congressional protectors. Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley accused Trump of a â€Å"bait and switch,† in reference to his empathic campaign promise. Grassley and Iowa’s other Republican senator, Joni Ernst, threatened to block all of Trump’s future EPA appointments. The governors of most Corn Belt states joined in sending Trump warning him than any cutback in the Renewable Fuel Standard program’s subsidies would be â€Å"highly disruptive, unprecedented and potentially catastrophic.† Faced with the potential loss of influence over some of his strongest congressional backers, Trump quickly told Pruitt to back off any future talk of cutting the ethanol subsidy. On July 5, 2018, Pruitt resigned amid multiple accusations of ethics violations involving his excessive and unauthorized personal use of government funds. He was replace within hours by EPA deputy director Andrew Wheeler, a former lobbyist for the coal industry.

Boil Water at Room Temperature

Boil Water at Room Temperature You can boil water at room temperature without heating it. This is because boiling is about pressure, not just temperature. Heres an easy way to see this for yourself. Simple Materials watersyringe You can get a syringe at any pharmacy or lab. You dont need the needle, so its  safe project, even for kids. How to Boil Water Without Heating It Use the plunger to pull up a bit of water into the syringe. Dont fill it you need airspace in order for this to work. You just need enough water that you can observe it.Next, you need to seal the bottom of the syringe so that it wont be able to suck up more air or water. You can put your fingertip over the opening, seal it with a cap (if one came with the syringe), or press a piece of plastic against the hole.Now youll boil the water. All you need to do is pull back as quickly as you can on the syringe plunger. It may take a couple of tries to perfect the technique, so you can keep the syringe still enough to watch the water. See it boil? How It Works The boiling point of water or any other liquid depends on vapor pressure. As you lower the pressure, the boiling point of the water drops. You can see this if you compare the boiling point of water at sea level with the boiling point of water on a mountain. The water on the mountain boils at a lower temperature, which is why you see high-altitude instructions on baking recipes! When you pull back on the plunger, you increase the amount of volume inside the syringe. However, the contents of the syringe cant change because you have sealed it. The air inside the tube acts as gases do and the molecules spread out to fill the whole space. The atmospheric pressure inside the syringe drops, creating a partial vacuum. The vapor pressure of the water becomes high enough compared to the atmospheric pressure that the water molecules can easily pass from the liquid phase into the vapor phase. This is boiling. Compare it with the normal boiling point of water. Pretty cool. Any time you lower the pressure around a liquid, you lower its boiling point. If you increase the pressure, you raise the boiling point. The relationship is not linear, so you would need to consult a phase diagram to predict how great the effect of a pressure change would be.

How to Get Your CDL in Wyoming, Nevada and New Mexico

How to Get Your CDL in Wyoming, Nevada and New Mexico This article is useful for anyone who wants to get your CDL in Wyoming, Nevada or New Mexico. If you want to learn about earning a CDL at other states, we have put together a comprehensive guide on how to get a commercial driver’s license in every state of the country. WyomingIf your vehicle has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds, or more or carries 16+ passengers (including the driver), or you transport hazardous material in an amount which must be placarded,   you are required to have a CDL.To obtain a CDL, you must  complete a series of written knowledge tests, a vision screening, and a driving skills test.Written Knowledge TestsAll written tests are multiple choice, and require a passing score of  80 percent correct. Written tests are valid for two years.You must take a written test  if:You  never been previously licensed in the United States, any U.S. Territory, Canadian Province, or GermanyYour  driving record indicates your last license has been expired, revoked, or denied for two years or longer, or your  privilege to drive has been revoked, canceled or disqualifiedYou are  upgrading your  class of license or adding any endorsementsYou are  removing the air brake restriction â€Å"L;† and you are  removing the Air Over Hydraulics restrictionIf you have  a CDL license with a hazmat endorsement â€Å"H,† you will be required to take the hazardous materials test upon transferring your  out-of-state CDL license. If you already have a  Wyoming CDL, you must  retake the hazmat test if you have not  passed the test within the previous two years.Vision ScreeningYou must receive  a vision reading of 20/40 with both eyes to pass the vision screening. If you cannot  meet this standard with or without glasses, you will have to  obtain a vision statement from an  eye doctor. If you wear contact lenses or glasses during the vision screening, you will be required to wear them at all times while d riving. A vision reading of worse than 20/40 in one eye will restrict you to intrastate driving only.Skills TestA skills test will consist of a vehicle pre-trip inspection, a basic control skills test and an over-the-road skills test. You can only take a skills tests after you have  successfully completed all applicable written tests.You must  test in a  vehicle representative of the class of license for which you are applying. Skills tests will not be conducted in a loaded commercial vehicle; simulated weight is the only thing allowed in trailer. Additionally, placarded vehicles are not allowed to be used for skills testing.The fee for a skills test is $40.Applicants for a Wyoming CDL who hold a valid U.S. Military license must pass all written tests for the class of license they currently hold.DisqualificationsWyoming law  states CDL holders may be disqualified from driving a commercial motor vehicle, have their license canceled, or be prohibited from obtaining a CDL if th ey are convicted of 2 or more serious moving violations in a 3-year period, which may include the following:Speeding 15 mph+Following too closelyNot posessing  a CDL or driving without a CDL on your personImproper or no endorsementsReckless drivingErratic or improper lane changeUse of cell phone OR texting while drivingYou  will have their license cancelled and will be disqualified from driving a CMV or from obtaining a CDL if convicted of:Driving under the influenceDriving with a blood alcohol of .04% or greaterLeaving the scene of an accidentDriving under suspension in a CMVDriving a motor vehicle used in a felonyNegligent operation of a CMV causing a fatalityNevadaCommercial Learner’s Permits (CLPs)Beginning in early 2016, CLPs will be administered  instead of a Commercial Driver’s License Instruction Permit (CDL IP).  To obtain a CLP, you must have a base non-commercial or commercial license. You must  have a CLP to get a CDL.A CLP is valid for 180 days, and must be held for 14 days prior to taking a skills test.Commercial Driver License  (CDL)You must have a CDL to drive a commercial motor vehicle, which is  a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property if the motor vehicle meets the following considerations:The vehicles have  a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds+, inclusive of a towed unit(s) with a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 poundsThere is  a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or moreThe vehicle(s) are  designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driverThe vehicle(s) are  of any size and are used in the transportation of hazardous materials that require placardingYou must be at least 21 years old to be issued a CDL to operate a commercial motor vehicle in interstate commerce and to receive endorsements for passengers or hazardous materials. You must be at least 25 to receive an endorsement for vehicle co mbinations over 70 feet in length.  CDLs issued to applicants age 18 to 20 will contain Restriction R (no passengers or hazmat) and Restriction 2 (intrastate commerce only).Requirements  Ã‚  to ApplyYou must list all states where you have held any commercial or non-commercial driver’s license in the past 10 years. Your driving history in each state will be checked.Commercial drivers must meet the Residency Proof of Identity requirements for a Nevada driver’s license.You must self-certify the type of driving you do and, if needed, submit a Medical Examiner’s Certificate.  Your employer may require a physical even if the state does not.If a physical is required, you must obtain it from a physician listed in the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.New MexicoAnyone applying for a CDL Permit, a first-time Commercial License or a Commercial License renewal must have the following documentation:A state birth certificate, U.S. passport, or other proo f of lawful presence in the U.S.A Social Security CardDOT Medical Certification2  verifiable proofs of physical residency in New MexicoA valid New Mexico driver’s/CDL licenseIf  you do  not have a current, valid DOT Medical Certificate on record, you  will be required to submit a copy of your medical certificate.Knowledge TestsYou must  to pass all required CDL Knowledge Tests for the Class and/or type of vehicle you  want to operate.If you  fails any one CDL Knowledge Test, you must wait one week (7 days) from day of testing before retesting.Any applicant may take any one CDL Knowledge Test 3x within a one-year period. After failing 3x, you  must wait one year from the first time tested before retesting.No documentation of any kind and no cell phones are permitted in the test area.If you are  found cheating or committing an offense while testing, you will have your  CDL application or license disqualified for one year and must  obtain a Class D license if holding a CDL.Skills TestsThe Skills Tests, which is made up of the Pre-Trip, Basic Control Skills, and Road Testing, are administered by a third party examiner and will normally take two hours.If you  fail, you  must wait one week from the day of testing before retesting.You  may take the test 3x  within a one-year period. After the third fail, you  must wait one year from the first time tested before retesting.Each part of the Knowledge and Skills Test is graded independently. A passing score is 80% or higher

Ethical and Cultural Issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ethical and Cultural Issues - Essay Example Many people tend to believe that business is business and it is about standardized business practices that happen to be same around the world. They think that the relevance of culture in business is overrated. However, nothing could be far from the truth. The thing that needs to be understood is that every business system happens to evolve around a culture and is significantly influenced by the cultural norms and beliefs (Johnson & Turner, 2007). Thereby while undertaking business operations in foreign nations, it is quiet feasible to offend people from a different business culture, without even intending to actually do so. Yet, it is also a fact that even if one agrees to the fact that business systems do get influenced by culture, it is difficult to ascertain as to how much one should know about a culture while engaging in business with it. There is no definite answer. Certainly, cultural knowhow is important, yet more important is the attitude of the managers managing business in a foreign culture (Johnson & Turner, 2007). ... A manager working in a foreign culture also needs to retain an attitude that is caring about the society in which one operates. For instance while doing business in China, a manager needs to remember that the Chinese society is highly shaped and moulded by traditional Confucian values that affiliate to a strict sense of propriety and norms (Alon, 2007). It is these norms and values that determine as to how a person ought to operate, act and behave while dealing with a range of social hierarchies. In addition, it is a fact that the Chinese tend to maintain little separation between their business life and personal life, and each business decision tends to have a personal context (Alon, 2007). One important thing to be understood is that the concepts of ‘mianzi’ and ‘guanxi’ happen to highly influence the business ethics in China. Guanxi happens to be a system of business connections, contacts, networks and relations that is really complex and deeply imbedded (Alon, 2007). These connections are formed over decades and happen to run deep. Mianzi is affiliated to the concept of face and in a broader term it could be interpreted as a concern for one’s personal self respect and self respect of the others (Alon, 2007). Hence, while dealing with ethical issues in China a manager always needs to remember that no concern for ethics may supersede the notions of guanxi and mianzi. The Chinese notion of ethics is flexible in the sense that while deciding about ethics it does tends to show consideration for personal relationships and the onus of allowing others to save their sense of face, even if it involves somewhat

Nintendo Wii for Women in the UAE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Nintendo Wii for Women in the UAE - Essay Example This paper believes that Nintendo Wii should find a new market, especially in a foreign market where it is not doing well yet. This paper presents a marketing plan for introducing Nintendo Wii to women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The situation analyses will provide the information on why Emirati and non-national women are attractive new market segments for Nintendo Wii. SITUATION ANALYSIS This section will analyse the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to Nintendo Wii. SWOT Analysis Strengths It is believed that Nintendo President and Director Satoru Iwata is a company strength because he has turned the company around with his support for innovations like Wii and DS (Schilling 2009). He is also a hardware innovator, which makes R&D in Nintendo a core competency also of Nintendo. Another company strength is its wide array of creative products. The company has led the video games industry since 2007, because of its intuitive and socially attractive games. Since 20 07, Nintendo has regained its top 1 market status because of â€Å"rethinking video gaming, making it more social, more intuitive, and physically engaging† (Deshpande and Chua 2008, p.22). Nintendo Wii has become a blockbuster product, because of its ability to physically engage players, embedding them into the gaming experience in intuitive ways. Nintendo has a strong multinational video gaming brand since its Mario Brothers times. With its phenomenal Wii and DS consoles, quality and creative gaming experience is already equated with Nintendo. This brand equity can easily spill over to other markets. Weaknesses Nintendo’s weakness is inventory shortage for its leading products Wii video game console and DS handheld... Center of discussion in this paper is Nintendo Wii and DS, the company's blockbuster products in the beginning of the twenty-first century. In 2006, Nintendo's revenues are $5 billion, but a year after that, it jumped to $9 billion, a rise of 80%. From 2006 to 2009, revenues have risen from $5 billion to $18 billion, which means that sales increased by 260%. For the past two years, however, sales are dipping as Wii, DS, and Dsi are approaching market saturation in the United States. In 2011, Nintendo sold 4.5 million Wii units, which is a far cry from its 2007 sales of 7 million-strong units, and which translates to a drop of 35%. This is not surprising also because of the short product lifecycle of video games consoles and gaming software, where new products, hardware and software alike, are produced every two to three years, sometimes even less. This paper believes that Nintendo Wii should find a new market, especially in a foreign market where it is not doing well yet. This paper presents a marketing plan for introducing Nintendo Wii to women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The situation analyses will provide the information on why Emirati and non-national women are attractive new market segments for Nintendo Wii. The main target markets are Emirati women, although other women are included. The Emiratis continue to have a conservative culture that keep women inside their homes, which hamper women's education, employment, and even exercise opportunities.

Legalizing marijuana Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Legalizing marijuana - Essay Example Yes, marijuana can make you crazy so legalizing it is wrong. We can cite the country of Jamaica, one of the largest producer of marijuana in the developing world where marijuana is very common. And if we think that authorities approve marijuana there, you are very wrong. Marijuana is one of the main culprit of the countless number of adolescents who committed petty crimes having police records early (Campbell, 2013). Marijuana makes a youngster susceptible to crime because it impairs one’s judgment. Or in short, you cannot think straight when you are in the influence of cannabis. Worst, if you like it too much and you do not have money to buy it because you are only a student, you will either sell things or steal. And worst, if police catches you, you will end up in jail and have police record early affecting your future because it will be hard to find a job if one has a police record. School will also likely to kick you out if you have a criminal record for stealing because of marijuana. Campbell, Dayton. "Legalising Marijuana Would Be Wrong - Columns."Â  Jamaica Observer News. 22 Sept. 2013. Web. 9 Nov. 2014.

Entry Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Entry Strategy - Essay Example The economic and political factors are inter-related and it becomes difficult to identify only the economic or only the political factors separately (Altinay, 2005). The micro-environment is the internal environment which comprises of the corporate goals and objectives, the corporate strengths and weaknesses and the service factors. In addition to these, the location is equally important (Ekeledo & Sivakumar, 1998). Zhao and Decker (2004) contend that size of the firm, the technology transfer if required, the cultural distance, the market size, risks and uncertainties, sectoral barriers, and the international experience also influence the entry strategy. Taking these factors into account, the market entry strategy for ABC in India and Ireland would be recommended.   While market entry is generally through exports, licensing, joint venture or opening of wholly owned subsidiaries, in the hospitality sector the mode of entry is different. In this sector direct ownership or any form of equity partnership is not preferred in countries with high economic or political risks, and of the level of economic development is low (Altinay, 2005). If the risks are high entry modes with low resource commitment is preferred. Franchising and management contracts are the most preferred modes of entry in the hotel sector in international expansion. In both these formats capital-intensive assets and knowledge-based assets can be separated.  Service firms may enter foreign markets using a variety of modes but control is the most vital factor.

Liquidity Effects in Corporate Bond Spreads Summary Essay

Liquidity Effects in Corporate Bond Spreads Summary - Essay Example However, practical separation of the two fundamental factors is indescribable. Separation of the two fundamental factors during measurement of credit spreads and inherent risks associated with corporate bonds is domineering in understanding individual contributions amongst the two. However, comprehensive understanding of liquidity effects within a specified bond pairs traded by a firm on a given day assists in examining their spreads or yields. Liquidity proxies define the most effective technique of measuring liquidity effects and corporate bond spreads on a given pair of bonds from the same firm. However, liquidity proxies have significant faults in determining the inherent effects requiring addition of clarifying power by incorporating other firms’ bonds. Matching bonds issued by the same firm helps in subduing credit risks and elaborating existing variation within bond spreads. Since liquidity proxies elaborates limited inherent variations in corporate spreads, it is essential to incorporate the aforementioned descriptive power through linking measurement to prices of other bonds within the diverse market. Unreliability of liquidity proxies in providing spreads associated with corporate bonds prompts for further explanation and affirms that measuring bond spreads with liquidity proxies is inherently

Slave Trade to America. Effects on Economies, Societies, and People Research Paper

Slave Trade to America. Effects on Economies, Societies, and People - Research Paper Example Thus, by 1610, very few colonialists were remaining due to the shortage of food and water. Precisely, only 60 of the first 214 were alive. (Littlejohn, 2003, P. 5) Despite this setback, the English colonialists were still convinced they could make Virginia prosperous. And thus the group of colonialists that followed was certain that there were unexplored metals and precious stones in the land. They therefore, aimed at identifying these precious minerals in Virginia. However, with time it became clear that Virginia did not have any minerals or metals. And therefore, the settlers had to identify some other means of survival. With other parts of America successfully dealing in Agricultural crops, the English colonialists also sought to try the same in Virginia. Tobacco farming was then started in the land and indeed it became a success to the Virginia Company. With the activity being so labor intensive, there was hence the need for more workers in the farms. The Englishmen offered to wo rk as indentured servants for a period of four to seven years in exchange for food, clothing and shipment to the New World. (Littlejohn, 2003, P. 6) Though the system of indentured servitude clearly exploited the workers, the white servants still accepted it in the hope for freedom and citizenship on completion of their contracts. With time, the system was not only being used in the farms, but also in construction, clearing of roads and timber cutting. Women could also secure jobs in households as domestic servants, but still under the same system. According to Rodriguez, (2007, P.87), the system of indentured servitude in America was to some extent a kind of slavery. This is because the servants were exploited by their masters and also faced many hardships during the contract period. Most of them were physically and sexually abused until they opted to run away. Running away would however, lead to severe consequences once captured. They would be beaten, branded and even jailed. Star t of Slave trade in America Then, in the year 1619 slave trade began in Virginia when a Dutch slave trader exchanged twenty African slaves for food. The Africans were taken as indentured servants at first but would later become slaves since even after the end of the contract they could not return to their home in Africa. By the 1920s, it became clear that the slave trade would be only option for the English tobacco farmers due to the high labor demand. (Wood, 2005, P. 4) This was due to the fact that the African slaves were much cheaper and easy to acquire as compared to the indentured servants. The slaves would only be provided with food water and shelter with no freedom promised as was the case in the indentured servitude. (Rodriguez, 2007, P.87) By this time, the transatlantic trade, which had started early in the century was booming, and thus English colonies did not have to suffer in search of a market for slaves. The demand for more slaves thus acted as a fuel to the slave tra de. The factors that promoted the slave trade of Africans in Virginia included: Availability or ready market: as mentioned above, the farmers did not have to travel all the way to Africa to purchase slaves; they could get them at the transatlantic slave trade. Racial differences also made the Africans more

Liquidity Effects in Corporate Bond Spreads Summary Essay

Liquidity Effects in Corporate Bond Spreads Summary - Essay Example However, practical separation of the two fundamental factors is indescribable. Separation of the two fundamental factors during measurement of credit spreads and inherent risks associated with corporate bonds is domineering in understanding individual contributions amongst the two. However, comprehensive understanding of liquidity effects within a specified bond pairs traded by a firm on a given day assists in examining their spreads or yields. Liquidity proxies define the most effective technique of measuring liquidity effects and corporate bond spreads on a given pair of bonds from the same firm. However, liquidity proxies have significant faults in determining the inherent effects requiring addition of clarifying power by incorporating other firms’ bonds. Matching bonds issued by the same firm helps in subduing credit risks and elaborating existing variation within bond spreads. Since liquidity proxies elaborates limited inherent variations in corporate spreads, it is essential to incorporate the aforementioned descriptive power through linking measurement to prices of other bonds within the diverse market. Unreliability of liquidity proxies in providing spreads associated with corporate bonds prompts for further explanation and affirms that measuring bond spreads with liquidity proxies is inherently

Retaining Foreign Talents in the Dubai Banking Industry Dissertation

Retaining Foreign Talents in the Dubai Banking Industry - Dissertation Example Advani (2006) mentions that the said situation exists in the said country because of the fact that the employees would rather work for the foreign banking institutions as the latter offers better compensation packages than their local counterparts. The Oxford Business Group (2008) also cited attracting and retaining high quality talent as one of the most common problems experienced by banks in Bulgaria. Generally, this problem is brought about by various issues such as the competition for limited banking resources such as the location that can be used to establish banks, the availability of skilled employees and eligible clients (The Oxford Business Group 2008). In Dubai, as well as in the other members of the Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC), retaining foreign talent in their banking industry is likewise an important issue issue. During the past years, the said countries, most especially Dubai, has been considered attractive in terms of enticing expatriate professionals Nevertheless, it was only considered as relatively successful in a sense that it has merely served as a transient market wherein the young professionals begin their careers, earn tax free income and socialize for 2-3 years. In this sense, employers therein experience high rates of turnovers as regards their staff (Rehman 2007). The 2007-2010 depression which affected Dubai along with the other members of the GCC has resulted to the radical decrease in the number of expatriate workers in the said countries. True enough, many Westerners were employed four to five years ago. However, nowadays, most of them have been transferred to other countries and some have been repatriated to their own countries. More often than not, the decision involving them is brought about by the fact that foreign expatriates are more expensive than others. Undoubtedly, the members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, most especially Dubai has long relied on foreign expatriates. However, because of the economic issues that they have faced, most of them have decided to come up with initiatives which are aimed towards the localization of the workforce, replacing the foreign expatriates with skilled local employees. The adoption of these initiatives had been highly influenced by the banking institutions in the countries to cut down their expenses by reducing the compensation packages offered to the expatriate professionals. Aside from these, the decision of financial institutions to cut down the premium pay of expatriates had also facilitated their turnovers (Rehman 2007). Undoubtedly, there is a need to implement employee strategies so as to retain key employees, most especially foreign talents in a certain company. However, because of economic problems such as recession, companies tend to cut down their costs in order to cope with the financial situation. This paper focuses on the issue of expatriate management in Dubai. It focuses on the different innovative strategies that companies, most especially memb ers of the banking industry usually implement in order to retain foreign talent. However, given the fact that Dubai suffered from economic recession in the last three years, this research aims to look into whether or not ht financial institutions therein continue the implementation of the said strategies during this period in the hopes of retaining foreign talent. Statement of the Problem As previously mentioned, the adoption of pertinent employee strategies is of paramount importance in terms of retaining foreign employees. Amongst the members of the banking industry, the key to attracting and retaining employees is through the development of good payment packages. However, banking instituti

Tyler Mcallister Essay Example for Free

Tyler Mcallister Essay In the last few years he has been in and out of more allergy doctor offices than he can count. Not to mention the fact that he has nightmares ever since his father died. If that werent enough, his mother and brother are both successful movie stars who are often off on location for long periods of time. The last thing he wanted was to go to a forbidden quarry and find a dead body. But that is exactly what happens to him while there with his friend Lymie. This is just the beginning of bad luck for a boy named Tyler McAllister. Tyler McAllister is very skinny and weak. Mostly because he is a vegetarian. He has a very rebellious nature. This could possibly be caused by not having his mom and brother there as much as he wants. It’s very strange that he rebels because he dislikes trouble. But he does in fact like solving mysteries. Believing in justice is one reason that Tyler likes solving mysteries. If you try to go against the law you must be punished for it. Another reason is when he starts at something he must finish it. Through almost the entire story Tyler is solving little mysteries that lead up to solving the biggest mystery of all. Who killed the janitor Bobby? For a kid who doesn’t like trouble, lately he has been getting in it a lot. He’s discovered places that he probably should not have been in. Like the forbidden quarry where he found the janitor’s body. He even got sent to the principal’s office for talking back to the teacher after falling asleep in class. Tyler McAllister is a skinny, rebellious, mystery solving guy. Who doesn’t take no for an answer. His personality helps him solve the mystery of Bobby’s death. Then at the end of The Trouble with Lemons Tyler McAllister finally gets the birthday he wants. By: Tori Bakeman

Relationship Between Humans And Colour In Architectural Spaces

Relationship Between Humans And Colour In Architectural Spaces Colour can clarify and define space, form and structure, yet in many architectural practices is often considered only at the final stages of the design process. This tendency to subordinate colour reflects an attitude held by many design professionals since the Renaissance. The premise that colour is secondary to form, the disegno colore theory, was established by Aristotle in his Poetics during the Renaissance. Further reinforcing this belief, the architect Le Corbusier influenced the role of colour in architectural design still upheld by many today. He considered whiteness to convey order, purity, truth and architecture. His views were further supported by contemporaries such as Adolf Loos who considered white to be the colour of heaven, while Theo van Doesburg believed it the spiritual colour of the period (Minah 2008). White became the epitome of modern architecture. While Le Corbusier latterly modified his attitude toward the relationship of colour in architecture, the colour rules established in his work Purism, co-written with Amà ©dà ©Ãƒ © Ozenfant, were never as influential as his earlier beliefs (Batchelor 2000). The following paper examines the importance of colour within architectural space and its ability to influence mental well-being through its sensory and physiological properties. Experiencing Colour What is fundamental in understanding the use of colour and light in interior space? Why do some spaces bring joy, while other do not? Many would judge it simply a matter of taste, while others an expression of artistic skill, use of precise colour theory or scientific research. It is a complex combination of many factors, both human and scientific. Colour is perceived by the eye through different wavelengths of light carried to us by our surroundings and interpreted by the brain (Nassau 1998). Without light there would be no colour. Light reflects off surfaces, triggering an electromagnetic response in the eye, which in turn translates into colour within the brain (Miller 1997). Our perception of colour is dictated by its hue (actual colour), its intensity or depth of tone (saturation) and its brightness, creating shade and shadow (Miller 1997). An academic interest in the psychological meaning of colour has been prevalent for centuries. Philosophers from ancient Greece dating back to Aristotles time, artists post da Vinci, the early 19th century poet Goethe and subsequent latter day psychologists, anthropologists, biologists, etc, have theorised and investigated the complexity of human response to, and use of colour (Birren 1978; Sharpe 1980). Shown in Table 1. are the six categories believed by Graham, to be key to the human responses to colour within the built environment (Pierman 1978). The scope of the subject is so huge that for the purpose of this paper my main focus will be physiological, mood and associative response to colour and its implications on our experience of interior space. Biological Reactions of a Colour Stimulus There is a reoccurring theme in published literature on human response to colour, namely, the association of hues at the long or warm end of the visible spectrum (red, orange and pink) with arousal and excitation, and those at the short or cool end (green, blue violet) with calmness and relaxation (Goldstein 1942; Gerard 1958; Wilson 1966; Jacobs and Hustmyer 1974) which crosses multi-cultural boundaries (Oyama, Tanaka et al. 1962; Adams and Osgood 1973). Although not all results have shown identical outcomes in respect of systolic blood pressure, skin conductance, respiration, heart rate, eye-blink frequency and electrical brain activity, the emotional responses have been similar. Further studies have used word associations with colour, such as blue being associated with tender, soothing, secure and comfortable and orange with disturbing, distressed, upset (Wexner 1954). A more recent study attempted to replicate the findings of Gerrard, with a focus on the effect on cardiovascular function (Yglesias, Stewart et al. 1993). Whilst the effect on the heart could not be replicated the individuals mental expectations of the consequence of the colours was in accord with previous literature. Jacobs and Seuss similarly found the effects of 4 primary colours projected onto a large screen produced high anxiety levels for red and yellow, consistent with earlier studies (Jacobs and Hustmyer 1974) Schauss claimed that pink colours acted as a natural tranquilizer and had successfully subdued prison inmates (Schauss 1979), but this has not been substantiated in further studies (Pellegrini, Schauss et al. 1981). The earlier findings may have been more to do with the Hawthorne effect, particularly as such a result would contradict the prevalent red/blue spectrum theory. Whilst all of the above research with its consequent design implications was carried out using coloured light, slides, patches, or words, KÃ…Â ±ller et al experimented using full scale decorated rooms. Those decorated with colours from the long visible spectrum created greater arousal than those from the short spectrum. Additionally, introverts or those in a negative mood became more affected than others, impacting their performance (KÃ…Â ±ller, Mikellides et al. 2009). Similarly, Kwallek found that an individuals ability to screen colours for irrelevant stimuli had an impact on the effect of colour. High screeners were more productive in a red working environment, while low screeners performed better in a blue-green office (Kwallek, Soon et al. 2006) (Kwallek, Soon et al. 2007) (Kwallek, Woodson et al. 1997). In addition, Kwallek et al found saturation of colour was a significant predictor of differences in mood between males and females. Ainsworth contrarily found no difference in performance between red and blue offices (Ainsworth, Simpson et al. 1993). However, In a study of almost 1000 workspaces in four countries, interior colour was recognised as an important influencing element of mood and performance (KÃ…Â ±ller, Ballal et al. 2006). A key article by Kaiser reviews the varied literature on non-visual physiological responses by humans to colour, (Kaiser 1984a), concluding that there are reliable physiological responses to colour recorded, but that some of the results may have been effected by cognitive response to colour (Kaiser 1984a). The preceding review shows that, despite considerable interest and research, studies have yet to provide a thorough and empirically proven set of rules for the relationship between colour and emotions (Valdez and Mehrabian 1994). Cognitive Response to Colour The way we respond to colour can also be a result of conscious symbolism or associated actions. Yglesias et al showed that we have expectations in respect of our response to certain colours (Yglesias, Stewart et al. 1993), regardless of involuntary physiological responses. These may be learned through culture or tradition, memory, preferences or fashion. Colour associated with actions can be seen in the red, amber and green of traffic lights conveying stop, yield and go, respectively. When these colours are used in isolation from their connection with traffic, they can still influence their association (Hutchings 2004). Red is commonly used to signify danger, or to command attention and is the most pervasive colour signal in nature (Humphrey 1976). It can, however, have a somewhat ambiguous meaning as it is the colour of edible berries, signifies love, lust, anger and blood; a combination of both positive and negative symbolism. Culture and tradition can connect specific emotions with certain colours. Typically, white is worn by Western brides for its connection with purity, whereas in India the preferred colour is red (Hutchings 2004) and in other countries black, which is in stark contrast to its commonly accepted association with mourning (Kaya and Crosby 2006). White continues its connection with purity through its use in kitchens and bathrooms, translating into cleanliness and hygiene. It can also be seen in its association with hospitals and specifically the doctors coat, further reinforcing its sterile status (Blumhagen 1979). In China white is associated with righteousness. Black is associated with dullness and stupidity in Indian culture, while red implies ambition and desire (Kreitler and Kreitler 1972). Colours can also be steeped with religious meaning through association. For instance, green is the sacred colour of Islam (Kaya and Crosby 2006), and was also considered sacred by the Celts up until the Christian church introduced white (Singh 2006). In addition to white, purple is the symbolic colour used in Christian churches throughout Lent for drapes and altar frontals, while orange is considered the most sacred colour in Hindu religion. Red and white is a combination used for ritual decorations in Melanesia and for representing the Sacred Heart of the Catholic Church in Mexico (Singh 2006). Colours with religious connotations and subsequent emotional connection can have a profound effect on an interior if inappropriately used and could cause offence, or negative feelings. Colour associations also appear to rely on an individuals previous knowledge and experience, combined with personal emotional connections. Kaya and Crosby found colour schemes were remembered in alliance with known interiors, such as restaurants, schools or their homes and, subsequently deemed appropriate colours for specific building types or rooms. For example, some related the colour blue with feelings of relaxation, calmness, comfort and peace, with an associated link to hotels and residences (Kaya and Crosby 2006). Red, a colour frequently aligned with stimulation and arousal, was often coupled with places of entertainment, such as restaurants (Kaya and Crosby 2006). Conclusion A complex collection of factors combine to dictate an individuals perception of colour within the built environment. Despite decades of research into our physiological response to colour and its implications, scientific results have been contradictory and sometimes inconclusive, albeit with a general consensus on reaction to colours within the short and long visible spectrum. For example, as highlighted earlier, red wavelengths can influence biological rhythms, with green wavelengths being weaker. These results are a direct physiological response. A human does not have to have any knowledge of the colour red for a biological response. However the result may be compounded by an indirect physiological response to the colour based on cognition. For instance, an individual may have a strong mental association of red with blood, violence, fire or hatred. We all have our own personal knowledge of colour, based around culture, tradition and memory, which serve to guide our choice and experi ence of colour and light. In addition, response to colour can also be influenced by our immediate environment, such as whether we are alone or in a group, or how we are feeling at the time and its effect on our ability to screen colours. A person in a depressed mental state may not respond in the same way as someone in a more positive mood. Colour is a powerful force which can be used in different way to motivate and stimulate, to control our actions, to create an environment of joy or misery. In making colour choices for interior space, it is crucial to understand the nature and culture of the users, in conjunction with scientific research. It is important to discern whether the chosen colour has a direct physiological impact on a particular biological function, or if the colour effect depends on cognitive learning or emotional associations. Selection should also consider the implications of hue and saturation of colour, which play a strong part in eliciting positive feelings and a sense of well-being when appropriately chosen. Interiors should not be devised purely for reasons of fashion or aesthetics, if the aim is to elicit a positive emotional response from the user; a more considered approach should be undertaken. 1876

Power, Morality, and Terror Essay -- Terrorism Terrorist September 11

Power, Morality, and Terror In the wake of events stemming from the bombing of the World Trade Center, citizens of the United States have slowly been coming to grips with many changes- new threats, new fears, and a new vision of the world and our place within it. As we re-adjust the lens through which we see our geopolitical landscape and begin to formulate a national security policy which can effectively respond to the terrorist threat, we must acquire a firm understanding of what motivates terrorist operatives. It will not suffice to merely throw out simplistic explanations of terrorist motives such as, "they’re evil. . .they hate us. . .they’re irrational. . .they hate freedom." Rather, we must take a systematic look at what motivates terrorism on the theoretical level. In some ways, terrorism is just a new variation on an old theme. For as long as men have lived in societies, there have been the haves and the have-nots, the dominant classes and the oppressed groups, the weak and the strong. Whereas the tactics of terrorists may be more technologically advanced and, arguably, more cruel than those used by insurgents of the past, their primary goal of altering either the regional or global polarity is as old as mankind itself. For their part, those dominant nations against whom the repressed campaign tend to engage in a brand of rhetoric which portrays the opposition as morally depraved. While this may or may not be the case, two important questions follow which are asked all too rarely. The first question is: how valid are the claims of the repressed that the dominant state itself is morally culpable? In the current case, the United States is responsible for committing a number of evils against Muslims. This is esp... ...orism is the last resort of a desperate people. Perhaps its best cure is to confront and rectify the grievances of those who suffer so greatly at our hands (often because of our narrow oil-interests in the Persian Gulf). Even a minimal increase in the standard of living in such countries, even a small acknowledgment of our role in maintaining and exacerbating this suffering- would instill in potential insurgents the one thing that stops terrorism dead in its tracks- hope. Sources: Betts, Richard K. ed. Conflict After the Cold War: Arguments on Causes of War and Peace. Carr, Edward Hallett. "Realism and Idealism." Second Edition. Longman Press: New York. 2002. Coates, AJ. The Ethics of War. Manchester University Press. New York: 1997. Liang, Qiao and Wang Xiangsui. Unrestricted Warfare. Beijing: PLA Literature and Arts Publishing House. 1999.

A learning Machine

It is quite difficult to see the author’s main point in the sense that he simply discussed the findings of the five psychological scientists regarding their research on the neural plasticity of the brain. It appears that the author adapted the findings of the scientists which have served as the main point of the article.That is, based on the scientists’ findings the author depicted that the brain is â€Å"a learning machine† that it is capable to bend, stretched, expand, and specialize it self in order to respond to challenges. The author apparently believed that the topic was a breakthrough in scientific research regarding the human brain.The author made this clear citing the remark of one of the presenter; Nelson states, â€Å"Psychological sciences are on the point that it should become a big science. We should think about the way that chemistry became great sciences.The time of each person in his own lab may be over.†[1] As stated earlier, the authorâ €™s main point is to show that the human brain is capable of adjusting to the current challenges. The brain can be trained in order to become capable to cope up with the present challenges. It is true that the author described other people’s argument and he does have his own opinion. He simply cited the opinions of the five presenters and supports his main point by citing the remarks of the presenters regarding the topic.The information presented by the author is that the neural plasticity in able the brain to adapt to sort and interpret a huge variety of incoming data from the world. This finding was derived from an experiment on the adult monkey’s brain which concludes that human brain can be train to adapt new skills. The author says it is a breakthrough in scientific research of the human brain.What are the strong features of the author’s argument?Indeed, the author does not have his own argument, but the strong feature of the article is that it tells th e reader of what more the human brain is capable of.On the part of the writer, he simply presented the findings of the five scientists. However, the argument is definitely supported by solid data because they are based on actual experiment. Yes, the research appears to have been conducted properly because obviously, the writer validated all his information through the statement of the scientists which conducted the actual experiments regarding the topic. Regarding information, I do not think the author provided more than one side of the issue.The author simply presented what is necessary to give fair information. In my opinion, the weak feature of the article is its humanist notion. The article is not based on anecdote nor does it rely on isolated case study but on evolutionary principle. But generally, the author research is adequate as it is informative. The data presented was not misinterpreted nor the author tried to infer a causal connection from co-relational data.Comparison w as not possible rather the author corroborated the findings the scientists. Regarding other possible interpretations, this seems not possible as even the writer simply presented the opinion of the presenters. Nelson was careful not to make any unsubstantiated claims or has ignored other explanations as there was not such thing in the article.What have you learned in the course that supports arguments made by the author?I have learned from the course that the brain carries various cognitive activities and that it is a very complex information processor which process input information in many different levels of consciousness and unconsciousness. While this is a common knowledge, it clearly connects to the author’s argument that the brain is a learning machine.That is the brain is capable of adjusting, bending and acquiring skills. This argument is specifically noted by the author citing Michael Rutter of King’s college observation of the cognitive capability of Roman ch ildren form an adopted by UK families from an orphanage. Rutter noted the progress of the children who were all tested as mentally retarded upon their arrival, but after some years of living in above average environment, â€Å"they were nearly normal†[2].The thing that I have learned from the course that goes against the author’s argument is that the human brain distinctly set apart human’s from animals because of its capacity to adopt, to develop new skills, and bend stretched in order to respond to challenges. This kind of capability is so distinct from that of animals which attest that human beings are a special creation and not a product of evolution.This runs counter to the author’s argument which clearly adheres on the theory of evolution. Citing Gopnic, the author stated, â€Å"evolution requires that we discover new things about the works and use this knowledge to imagine new things, to change the world based on imaginings†[3] I could apply what I have leaned from this events first, locally by telling people who are struggling to cope with new challenge that they are capable of imagining a better situation and of turning it to reality.Second, nationally, I can write article which discussed on the capacity of human brain to cope and to adjust with new challenges which I will seek to publish on a national level. I understand that this is easier said than done but if this will help people to overcome their current difficult situation, then I will be willing to pursue it. Globally, this may sound impossible, but publishing an article of international circulation may be possibleSelect a concept from the article and connect it to or relate it to events happening in the world today.The concept I selected from the article is the concept that brain can be trained. The human brain can be trained to be skilled, can be trained to become sensitive and can be trained to adjust or stretched.   Today, the world is witnessing the ri se of new technology and the world is fast becoming technology drive.The need of new skills, new knowledge, and visions requires human being to respond by adapting to the new situation. In this new development, the ability of the brain to acquire new skills, to adapt to new situation, to cope with challenges, and the capability of the mind to be trained relates highly because the new knowledge demands new skills. In other words, training people for this type of knowledge is possible because of brains capability to adjust and to adopt.

Geronimo, Apache: A Defined Leader Essay

Geronimo, or Goyathlay, was a great leader from the Native American Bendokohe Apache tribe. Although Geronimo was not a chief, the tribe depended on the wisdom of his position as medicine man. Geronimo gathered such influence that he led the last force to formally capitulate to the United States by upholding the core Apache values that embody aspects that define a leader: aggressiveness, diligence, and courage. Geronimo displayed the core values of the Apache tribe, that of courage, diligence, and aggressiveness. These core values were what kept them relatively safe from the increasing white settlement of the west, including Arizona and New Mexico (theinitialjourney.com.) Aggressiveness, or assertiveness, and diligence are key aspects of a leader. A leader must be assertive as well as persistent in order to maintain a certain level of self-confidence and influence over those who are being led, even in the face of adversity. Geronimo was a great example of an assertive leader. Geronimo led the last major Native American Fighting force to surrender to the United States; thus having the longest resistance period. Upon the discovery that his mother, wife, and his three young children had been murdered by Spanish troops, he vowed to avenge his family by retaliating against as many Mexican settlements as possible. It was not until this time that he received his ‘power’ of seeing visi ons (Indigenouspeople.net.) It was because Geronimo held out the fight for so long, that he became the most famous Apache of all. By asserting himself and applying himself in order to uphold his values of family and justice, Geronimo became an essential force as medicine man, acting in and out of combat as a spiritual and intellectual leader of the people (not a chief.) He escaped from a reservation three times, the final time bringing thirty five warriors and one hundred nine women and children into freedom. It was through these acts that Geronimo transcended above and beyond advisor. Geronimo became an icon of freedom and persistence in the face of difficulty (indiginouspeople.net.) Through assertiveness and diligence, Geronimo led his people towards their goal of freedom, also exhibiting another leadership trait: courage. Geronimo was exceptionally courageous in the face of difficulty. After vowing to avenge his family and tribe after their murder was an extreme test of character and will. It was a desire for freedom that continued his ability to evade capture. â€Å"Geronimo, the most legendary Apache war leader, along with seventeen warriors, fourteen women, and six children had evaded capture despite pursuit by 5,000 U.S. troops, 3,000 Mexican soldiers, and numerous Indian scouts for more than six months. To the U.S. Army and the settlers in the area, the supremely resilient and determined Geronimo had personified the Apache problem and every raid on a village or wagon train was attributed to him. In the years following his surrender, Geronimo came to personify resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.† Tfaoi.com Geronimo became a legendary force against the involuntary capture of Native American Apaches. His courage against adversity compelled many to follow him. His statements of â€Å"coming from a land with no enclosures† inspired people to follow a dream of living simply as they once did; without white influence (indigenouspeople.net.) It was though this notion of courage to follow one’s true intuition in life. Geronimo was an exceptional leader, exuding leadership through the qualities of assertiveness, diligence, and courage. Geronimo led his people to freedom against white influence many a time over, evading capture the longest out of all Native American fighting forces. It was through diligence in repetition of effort, assertiveness of his character and moral intuition, and courage in the face of danger and difficulty that makes Geronimo a great leader. Works Cited: www.indigenouspeople.net/geronimo.htm http://www.tfaoi.com/aa/4aa/4aa494b.htm www.theinitialjourney.com/features/geronimo_01.html

Effects Of Culture Within Humans Architecture Essay

About every possible environmental factor that could hold been involved in adult males physical development has been considered, but until the really recent nowadays the function played by cultural factors in the physical development of adult male has received practically no attending † ( Montagu, 1962 ) . This is rather surprising visual perception as that Darwin, in his 1871 publicationThe Descent of adult male,placed great accent on the development of intelligence, civilization and so forth on the physical development of worlds. Yet Darwin ‘s penetration has seemed to hold been over looked. Until late many physical anthropologists have been looking at what the physical, environmental force per unit areas has had an consequence on worlds physical traits, about entirely overlooking that â€Å" adult male ‘s chief agencies of accommodating himself to the physical environment is civilization † ( Montagu, 1962 ) . Culture is a procedure that non merely controls the force per unit areas of natural choice, but every bit good, helps alter the force per unit areas. This becomes apparent when we observe the development of tools, sexual choice, societal choice, migration, improved attention of kids and so forth. Through cultural force per unit areas we see crude nature, transformed into human nature. â€Å" The development of intelligence progressively freed adult male from the bondage of biologically predetermined response mechanisms † ( Montagu, 1962 ) . This closely shifted natural choice to travel off from valuing being able to respond instinctively, and switch towards honoring those who could do the most advantageous response to conditions. Therefore, within my essay I shall travel on to farther discourse the effects that civilization has had on the development of worlds ***CONTINUE LATER*** â€Å" It was the success of the simplest tools that started the whole tendency of human development and led to the civilisation of today † ( Montagu, 1962 ) . It was one time believed that as we evolved into large-brained, two-footed existences, about to our current province before we foremost developed tools. Though, as fossil grounds contradicts, it appears that ancient apes had been utilizing tools half a million old ages ago. It has been hypothesised that â€Å" adult male † foremost began a million old ages ago, when populations of apes transformed into bipedal, tool utilizing animals, which obviously gave rise to the genus Australopithecus. â€Å" Most of the obvious differences that distinguish adult male from ape came after the usage of tools † ( Montagu, 1962 ) . Most grounds in respects to the passage and development in worlds come from analyzing dentitions, castanetss and tools, but the alterations and development of apes was more than merely morpholo gical. Change occurred in forms of life of intelligent Primatess, which was responsible due to new systems of kid attention, ripening and sex. Everything from fire, to runing, complex societal life, address, tools, all evolved with the encephalon together organizing the Genus gay, half a million old ages ago. Once once more the encephalon evolved making the current species today, Homo sapiens, from the force per unit areas of more complex societal life, 50 thousand old ages ago. It was non until the find at Olduvai by Mary Leakey that we could foremost happen cogent evidence that our ascendants were clearly utilizing rock tools about five 100 thousand old ages ago. Within the site, rock tools, with cock rock and waste flakes were discovered, as good with the remains of little animate being and gnawers. The remains of their pelvic girdles show these hominids were two-footed. Though their pelvic girdles closely resemble modern worlds shape at the top as being wider and shorter, but th e underside of the pelvic girdle still closely resembles that of an ape. It is believed that to go bipedal a displacement in the morphology of the upper pelvic girdle is needed foremost, and the adaptation of the lower pelvic girdle subsequently would do bipedalism more efficient. Their bow, this ape-man like species in Olduvai is in mid transmutation. Bipedalism developed in them as an adaptation suited best for long distance travel, that which is needed for runing. As they evolved more than five 100 thousand old ages ago, as good did the construction of their pelvic girdle ‘ , along with an about two-base hit in cranial size. As suggested by Darwin, this implies â€Å" that tool usage is both the cause and the consequence of two-footed motive power † ( Montagu, 1962 ) . With bipedalism, it besides enabled worlds more freedom of their custodies to farther develop tools, which would follow with the developing usage of being able to transport, drama and usage such points as sticks and rocks. Bipedalism changed more than the morphology of the pelvic girdle, it besides morphologically changed the development of dentitions, parts of the organic structure, and encephalon size. Another interesting displacement that occurred with the earlier australopithecines ( missing links ) was the loss of a big eyetooth tooth. In the natural state it has been seen that big eyetooth dentition in male baboons when shown to marauders, has deterred such animate beings as Canis familiariss and chetah. Therefore, big eyetooths are rather advantageous and indispensable to protect a group of animate beings, and particularly towards ground-living animate beings. So so why did the early missing links who foremost grazed the unfastened planes of Africa non hold big eyetooths? As suggested by Montagu, â€Å" it would look that the protection of the group must hold shifted from dentitions to tools early in the development of the man-apes and long before the visual aspect of the signifiers that have been found in association with rock tools † . Besides, the incisors of the man-ape have changed and become smaller, since their dentition no longer must prehend and draw things, wh ich have obviously been replaced by their custodies. Morphologic alterations in the dentitions are greater than merely a alteration in size. Large eyetooths are used for more than show, they were used for contending, drawing, throwing and prehending an enemy, and to back up such actions, big musculuss in the jaw, caput and cervix was indispensable. Therefore, when the map of certain old advantageous traits is no longer required, a morphological alteration in more than merely the dentition occurs, an overall morphological alteration is in demand. Changes in the morphology of the face, and forehead ridges can besides be explained through the alteration in human nature. An indispensable status for work forces to form in societal groups was to hold a suppression of fury, and the un-controlling thrust to first topographic point in the hierarchy of laterality.

Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Economics - Essay Example These relative assessments of other economic arrangements are, to be certain, innately hypothetical for two explanations (Feldman & Serrano 2005): first, they are hypothetical due to the hypothetical feature of the theories on which they are founded; second, they are hypothetical because practical limits on individual, business, and societal choices cannot be merely understood as proof of a breach of the rules of deliberate individual, business, and societal choices. These are the main reasons economic principles become increasingly important nowadays. For the two explanations abovementioned, the hypothetical assessments of other economic structures are constantly open to questions from both parts: they could be assessed because economic principles about the operating components of institutions are discovered to be insufficient, or to be inappropriately used. And they could be assessed because they wrongly analyze the unconscious or conscious feature of the ‘constitutional choi ces’ (Feldman & Serrano 2005, 64) that have situated the society, businesses, and individuals in a specific institutional context. However, the reality that the comparative assessments of economic institutions and principles will constantly be hypothetical and open to questioning in this way has one more repercussion: so long as there is no major opposition to the theories, and so long as there is no opposing proof to the dominant interpretation of the particular individual’s, business’s, and society’s constitutional interests and the unconscious or conscious character of their choices, as long as the temporary evaluation may properly be declared to be the most justifiable and well-substantiated hypothesis in sight. This kind of hypothetical comparative assessment can be used for all forms of economic structures: it can be used for institutions and principles that are the product of ‘natural development’, and to those that have been intention ally recognized. And it can be used for the wide-ranging economic principles that guide market forces, at least for the organizational-constitutional principles that rule structured general arrangements. Theories of the operating components of social and economic institutions serve a fundamental function in the assessments of other economic structures. As a result, the economic principles that generate such theories are a major root of information for the attempts in comparative organizational and constitutional assessment of choices. Specifically, obviously, not to claim that practitioners of economics could profess to be better evaluators of the appeal of other institutional structures, more ‘superior’ than the society, business, and individuals themselves who are to exist within these structures. However, due to the important function that theoretical perspective serves in any comparative assessment of economic institutions and principles, there is a substantial comp onent of ‘truth-judgment’ (Buchanan 1977, 213) required in these assessments. And one could quite be cynical about the level to which the ‘final evaluators’, the society, business, and individuals themselves, may be supposed to be directed, in their own assessments of other institutions, by a knowledgeable understanding of the concrete operating components of the economic alternatives. The economist’s ‘comparative institutional analysis and evaluation’

INNOVATIONS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

INNOVATIONS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY - Essay Example The GPS is a satellite navigational system that was invented and is being maintained by the United States military. Although it was originally designed for military operations purposes, its functions and benefits are now being hugely enjoyed by civilians across the world. Today, anyone can use the GPS as long as he or she has a GPS receiver. The navigational system that is stationed in space transmits signals and information to a GPS receiver on earth, thereby allowing anyone to know certain exact locations of anybody or anything at incredible speed. It is a breakthrough, indeed! To make it plain and simple the benefits of the GPS and how it has impact our world today, it will help to note that telecommunications companies use the GPS in transmitting signals for telecommunications purposes, especially communications using mobile or cellular phones. When you are driving your car and get lost in the middle of nowhere, a GPS tracking device could easily help you find the right the direc tion and even give you a graphic layout of your vicinity paths. Even before you start driving your car, most automobile companies have already added a GPS feature in their cars for security reasons.

Philosophy--Freedom, Responsibility, and Human Action (please see the Essay

Philosophy--Freedom, Responsibility, and Human Action (please see the attachment for detail) - Essay Example Eventually, the researcher will discuss whether or not the recent empirical evidences related to the major causes of human action or the variable status of certain moral intuitions undermines the role of intuition in philosophical discourse on human freedom and responsibility. Regardless of whether the researcher agrees or disagree with the claims that these recent empirical evidences weakens the role of intuition in philosophical point-of-view on human freedom and responsibility, the researcher will provide examples or possible alternatives as a way of defending the researcher’s answer to the question. Even though most of the human actions are controlled by environmental and genetic factors, intuition also has a role in controlling some of our actions. Basically, intuition serves as our inner higher guidance. Even before we perform an action, intuition tells us to whether or not to proceed with our intended action. Based on a person’s final judgment or decision, his or her moral responsibility as a human being will be greatly affected by his own actions. For example: A man who needs a large sum of money for his child’s heath care needs and surgery bill may end up thinking about robbing a bank or stealing something that costs a large sum of money from a stranger. Even before the man decides on whether to push through with his plan, the man will have to undergo a mental balancing between the benefit and consequences as well as the moral issues behind his intended action. At this point, intuition would normally hold the man from doing something that is morally unacceptable. Another example will be a student who is in danger of failing a subject at the end of the semester. In order to avoid failing the subject, the student may end up either choosing between copying his or her seatmate’s paper or simply put in extra

Environment Management at Yamama Cement Company Assignment

Environment Management at Yamama Cement Company - Assignment Example Such techniques include proper handling of environmental issues, effective marketing strategies and up to date human resource and employee relationship techniques. However, this paper will mainly discuss various characteristics of Environment Management programmes at Yamama Cement Company. The issues of environmental impact that must be considered in an Environmental Impact Assessment for Yamama Cement are six-fold: climate protection, fuels and raw materials, health and safety, emissions reduction, local impacts and concrete recycling. (Yamama Cement Website, 2010) This issue matrix is adopted from the World Business Council for Sustainable Developments (WBCS), â€Å"Cement Sustainability Initiative (CSI)†. (â€Å"Cement Sustainability Initiative (CSI)†) 3. Health and safety: In this field, the World Business Council for Sustainable Developments (WBCS), â€Å"Cement Sustainability Initiative (CSI)† motto is Aiming for Zero. The objective is no employee injuries or fatalities. 5. Local impacts: This aspect of environmental stewardship involves reduction of airborne particulate matter discharge and noise, â€Å"disturbance to landscape, local watershed and local biodiversity caused by limestone quarrying† and involvement of all relevant local stakeholders. Presence of world’s hottest deserts makes the Middle East one amongst hottest countries of the world with extremely hot and dry weather. Hence, all kinds of traders and manufacturers keep in mind its exceptionally harsh climatic conditions and use construction materials which can provide an effective resistance to heat and dryness. (Sinton, 2005, 450) For example, builders need to use waterproof foundation for buildings in order to avoid water infiltration due to a corrosive characteristic of salt present in the underground water within the Middle East.

Endangered Species Act of 1973 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Endangered Species Act of 1973 - Assignment Example As it is, there are already many in society that would argue that no exceptions whatsoever should be made.   In the end, to open up an exception to private enterprises as well, no matter how well-intentioned the organization might be.   In effect, were the government to open up such exceptions to others, the floodgates would literally come alive with individuals or organizations who felt their work was so important to the public welfare that it should be permitted to continue, no matter what the cost to a given species might be.   This would go against the very intent of the Endangered Species Act, not to mention create a bureaucratic nightmare for all affected agencies as they would be charged with the task of determining who to grant an exception to, and who to deny.   At some point, it would simply not work and would be ethically improper to proceed with that course of action.  

Cocoa Commodity Essay Example for Free

Cocoa Commodity Essay Background Cocoa beans are seeds of the cacao tree, which is a member of the Sterculiaceae family. Contained in a cucumber like fruit; these yellowish, reddish to brownish fruits are divided into five compartments each containing up to 10 seeds (Service). As the fruit begins to ripen, the partitions break down and the seeds are found around the central funicle in a whitish pulp. The cocoa seed (i.e. bean) consists of the seed coat which contains the cocoa kernel. The cocoa kernel is the principal component for the production of cocoa products. There are about 20 known varieties of the Cacao plant, but only two are commonly used in producing cocoa products (Canizaro). The two varieties commonly used are: * High Grade or Criollo Cocoa; which are large, roundish and brown in color. They have a delicately bitter, aromatic flavor and are easily processed. * Common Grade or Forastero Cocoa; which are small, flattened on the side and have a dark reddish-brown to violet color. They have a sharper flavor and account for nearly 90% of the world’s cocoa harvest. The main areas of cultivation of the cacao tree falls within a narrow belt 10 ° north and south of the equator because the trees grow well in humid tropical climates with consistent rainfall and a short dry season (Cadbury). Cocoa trees need an even temperature between 21 to 23 degrees centigrade, with a rainfall of 1,000 to 2,500 mm per year to produce cocoa seeds. The main producers of cocoa are: * West Africa Region—Ghana, Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire. * South America Region—Brazil and Ecuador. * Asia—Malaysia and Indonesia. Production Process Cocoa trees begin to bear fruit when they are around 3-4 years old. Each tree will yield 20-30 pods per year, each pod containing 20-40 seeds which when dried are the cocoa beans of commerce. The harvesting of the cocoa pod is very labor intensive; workers cut the high pods from the trees with large knives attached to poles. The pods are then split open by hand and seeds (i.e. beans) are removed ready to undergo a two part curing process. The two part process includes fermentation of the bean and then they go under a drying process. Methods of fermentation can vary from country to country, but usually only two methods are used; the Heap method or the Box Method. Here is a diagram using either method to illustrate: Heap Method The Heap Method is traditionally used on farms in West Africa. Wet cocoa beans, including the pulp, are piled on banana or plantain leaves which have been spread out in a circle on the ground. More leaves are the piled on top to cover the heap and it is left for five to six days, turning the pile to ensure fermentation (Cadbury). During this fermentation process the pulp and astringency of the beans are removed as the sugar in the pulp turns to alcohol, which drains away causing the bean to develop its true chocolate flavor. When fermentation is complete the wet mass of beans is dried usually by being spread out on mats under the sun. Box Method In the West Indies, Latin America and in Malaysia the box method is used on plantations. It involves the use of strong wooden boxes with drainage holes or gaps in the slats in the base of the box. This enables the passage of air and the removal of liquid products of fermentation. This process usually takes six to eight days during which the beans are mixed twice. After fermentation is complete the beans are dried by means of special drying equipment. Quality The quality of cocoa is based by the quality of the raw cocoa. Fully ripened cocoa beans that have properly fermented consist of a brown to dark red color and have a very fragile kernel with a bitter flavor. Including the bean’s appearance and odor the beans must also be undamaged, un-germinated and must include no foreign matter or mold. They also can’t be infested with insects or have suffered wetting damage. Nor can they smell sour, musty or smoky. Poor quality cocoa beans that have not been fermented properly are purple in color (under-fermented) or very dark in color (over-fermented). They also have a solid kernel and a very astringent taste. The quality of cocoa beans is assessed according to the following criteria: * Good Qualities * Fully ripe, correctly fermented * Firm beans of uniform size with a dry weight of no less than 1g. * Loose and undamaged shell * Light to dark reddish-brown color * Readily crumbled, fragile Kernel * Bad Qualities * Unripe and poorly fermented * Moldy * Strong violet color as a result of under-fermentation * Purple color as a result of over-fermentation * Firm Kernel * Insect infested * Germinated * Smoky odor due to excessively long drying Mode of Transport After the cocoa has been harvested and quality has been assessed, the product should be shipped shortly after harvest, as extended storage (past 6 months) may result in losses due to the high relative humidities in the tropics. Cocoa beans should be placed in bags of jute or sisal usually of a (gross) weight of 60 65 kg, rarely of up to 100 kg (Service). Cocoa beans can be transported by ship, truck or railroad. When transported in a container, the cargo needs to be in a ventilated container so it is in compliance with lower limits for the water content of goods, packaging and flooring. The wooden flooring of the containers must be absolutely clean and dry. Water content should be 12%, corresponding to a lumber equilibrium moisture content of 70%, so that the flooring does not constitute an additional source of water vapor to dampen the cocoa cargo and container atmosphere (Service). The cocoa beans may also be covered with paper which readily absorbs any moisture. Also given the high value of cocoa, a two layer anti-condensation film should be used to provide addition protection against dripping sweat. Another option is by transporting on flat racks in ventilated holds. This option is a more cost effective alternative to the costly ventilated containers. Uses of Cocoa Primary Use of Cocoa Secondary Use Possible Substitute When people think of cocoa, the first things that may come to mind is chocolate or in the spirit of colder weather, hot chocolate. Chocolate and confectionary sweets are the most common uses of cocoa, but many do not know that cocoa can be a great source for dietary reasons. The processed chocolate bars will not give the same effect for dietary purposes but it has been proven that the darker the chocolate, the healthier it is. Raw cocoa beans are sometimes eaten for their flavonoids which according to studies conducted by Eric Dung can improve cardio vascular health. North America has undergone many changes in the last decade especially placing an emphasis on healthy living. Cocoa has been proven to help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, and reduce the risk for heart disease according to Suzanne Steinbaum; director of women and heart disease at Lenox Hill Hospital. Cocoa also reduces cravings for those attempting to diet and want to reduce the amount of food one may be eating. The smell of cocoa is so rich and aromatic that it actually helps satisfy hunger cravings. Cocoa can help repair skin as well according to dermatologist Ava Shamban, MD. Cocoa is loaded with antioxidants that help repair skin cells and neutralize harmful radicals. Cocoa has also made its way into pharmaceuticals. The oils extracted from cocoa beans become a solid at room temperature but melts within the body so this oil has been used to encapsulate certain drugs. Cosmetics have also found the wonders of cocoa. There exists within cocoa a natural compound that naturally prevents anything it is used with from becoming rancid. Makeup and soaps use cocoa in their products to keep the product from spoiling and can last for years. Demand The demand for cocoa has increased from new markets for cocoa products and increased sales in existing markets. The reduction of tariffs to places like Korea and Peru make it easier to compete in the market to hold and increase market share. Other influencing factors include the climate to grow cocoa, resources, technology and sustainable practices in parts of the world with little to no education. There has been a lot of attention given to child labor practices and the need to improve the process and quality of life of cocoa farmers. As sales have increased over the years, cocoa yields are not growing fast enough has motivated big chocolate manufactures to protect their interests and invest in the future of cocoa. Chocolate sales reached over $100 billion in 2011. While sales have been increasing the disparity between cocoa yields and the world’s need for cocoa will only be exacerbated if nothing is done. Farmers face various challenges in growing this crop that directly impa ct their ability to meet demand. The World Cocoa Foundation states that farmers are dealing with aging trees that aren’t producing as much as well as a loss of 30 to 40 percent of their crop due to infestation and disease. These aren’t big industrialized farms that one can see in America; almost 90 percent of cocoa comes from small farms in Africa, Asia and the Americas. For these farmers to help reach the demand for manufacturers active involvement from these companies is needed to ensure sustainability. According to the Fair Trade Foundation the demand for cocoa has been rising approximately 3 percent a year for the last 100 years (3). Production for the 2011/2012 grow season was 3,987 million tons (World Cocoa, 2). By 2020 there will be an estimated 1.5 million ton shortage of cocoa (Bloudoff-Indelicato, Climate Wire, 1). One of the reasons for the increase in demand can be attributed to the rising wealth in China. According to Agrimoney.com there has been a â€Å"growing shift towards Western-style diets and cocoa powder-based products such as ice creams, biscuits and other confectionary†. As the country’s lifestyle and culture changes with the increase in disposable income, the middle class are developing a taste for chocolate. China’s chocolate sales are expected to grow 19 percent to $1.2 billion this year (CNNFreedom Project). China isn’t the only Asian country hungry for chocolate. Falling just below China is Indonesia with a 25 percent increase to $1.1 billion and India will most likely see a 7 percent increase as well. If Asian markets keep growing as predicted they could very well have 20 percent of the global market by 2016 (CNN Freedom Project). Changes in export costs also make it more profitable and easier to ship cocoa products to various countries. President Obama’s National Export initiative plans to double U.S. exports within 5 years. To help achieve this goal the negotiation of free trade agreements aid American companies to meet the growing demand for cocoa products. Korea is the third largest exporter for U.S. candies with U.S. brands accounting for 16 percent of the chocolate sector. However American companies are at a disadvantage due to the FTA agreement that was signed to incrementally reduce tariffs and are still paying between 5 to 8 percent tariffs. Some other global competitors seemed to have negotiated better free trade agreements and have seen a decrease on tariffs into Korea. Currently the U.S. companies have paid duties in excess of $18 million since the agreement was signed in 2008 (National Confectioners Association, 2). This will make it difficult for American companies to compete with global competitors because their costs of getting their product to market are greater. However, with the free trade agreements signed with various other countries will enhance exports into Korea to meet the increasing demand of chocolate. In 2011, imports of chocolate and other candies were up 30 percent from 2010 totaling $339 million (Korea Product Brief). The dramatic increase in imports is promising for chocolate manufacturers to try and increase their customer base in a rapidly expanding market. Starting October 31, 2012, Panama is eliminating tariffs on more than 86 percent of U.S. consumer and industrial goods (Poe). This includes chocolates and cocoa inputs which will help American companies continue to hang onto their 42 percent ($27 million) market share for candy, gum and chocolate exports. Panama’s growing economy is expected to keep growing 5 to 8 percent each year through 2017 in conjunction with the implementation of the free trade agreement Panama could become an important importer of cocoa products for American companies. Changes in cocoa production While fair trade and organic cocoa represent a small portion of the cocoa market at 0.5 percent there has been some growth in these sectors. Fair trade cocoa is cocoa from farmers that are compensated a fair amount for their product according to faritadeusa.org they also teach farmers sustainable processes and assist in quality of life improvement. Global sales have seen an uptick in fair trade cocoa from 14,000 tons in 2009 to 35,000 in 2010. This increase is attributed to the growth in the United Kingdom. The United States has also shown an increase of fair trade cocoa imports by 67 percent from 2009 to 2010 (fairtrade cocoa review, 8). With the looming cocoa shortage in the near future, cocoa users are realizing how important it is to be an active partner in sustainable cocoa practices. Manufacturers around the world want to protect their cocoa interests and ensure that there will be enough cocoa to keep up with the rising desire for cocoa products. Various companies have announced their plans and involvement in supporting sustainable cocoa practices as well as providing the farmers the assistance and education needed to ensure a bright cocoa future. According to their company websites the following companies have announced their commitments to provide the cocoa industry a promising future in the years to come. * Mars – 14.6% global market share in 2010 * 2020 – all cocoa will come from certified cocoa * 2011- purchased 10% of cocoa used from certified sources * Nestle – 12.6% global market share in 2010 * Invest 110 million in sustainability, farmer training, social conditions, plant expertise * Commitment to purchase sustainable products * Kraft – 8.3% of global market share in 2010 * 5 year partnership with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to improve cocoa production and supply chain efficiency in West Africa * 2011 largest buyer of cocoa beans from certified Fairtrade farms and Rainforest Alliance Certified Farms * Ferrero – 7.3% of global market share in 2010 * In 2011 pledged to use only sustainable cocoa by 2020 * Hershey – 6.7% of global market share in 2010 * Over the next 5 years will invest $10 million in West Africa to improve farming processes and communities * In 2012 U.S. consumers will be able to purchase Bliss products that are produced with 100 percent certified cocoa Implications of shortage Cocoa shortages would have a huge impact globally. It will affect every member in the cocoa supply chain. Farmers will produce less and receive even less money to be able to live off of. The farmers will have even less to invest into their trees continuing to increase the deficit in cocoa production versus demand. The incentive to continue cocoa farming would decrease and may drive farmers to cities to seek other employment or pursue more lucrative farming opportunities. In an effort to combat the drug war in Columbia, farmers were enticed with trading coca (cocaine plant) growing for cocoa partly due to the high prices cocoa was selling for in the late 2000s (cocoa was selling for $3,520/ton in 2010 according to indxmundi.com). It is hard to convert coca farmers to start producing cocoa if the opportunity cost of growing cocoa is less than the opportunity cost of not growing cocaine plants. Not only does a cocoa shortage have a direct impact on the farmer’s lives, but also on their community because the monies from coca plants helps guerilla groups that the government has been fighting for years ( Weissmann). Companies that are dependent on cocoa for their income will face challenges in trying to make quality products that consumers have come to expect at a certain price. Some of the increase in purchasing costs will most likely trickle down to the consumer in order to protect the companies’ profit margin. Also companies may look elsewhere to save money, which can result in less cocoa production jobs. There are close to 50 million people that depend on cocoa for their source of income if nothing is done to help increase cocoa production it will take its toll on many people’s lives and their countries’ financial stability (Fairtrade and cocoa, 2). Supply The world of cocoa beans is centralized in none other than West Africa. In fact the top 5 cocoa bean producing countries are all located in West Africa; countries being The Ivory Coast (Cote d Ivoire), Indonesia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon in that particular order. The Ivory Coast has been the dominant producer of cocoa beans with production totaling nearly 1,242,300 metric tons of cocoa beans. This equates to about 29.3% of the world’s total cocoa beans. Indonesia is nowhere near the Ivory Coast in production, only totaling about 810,100 metric tons of cocoa beans a year accounting for about 19.1%. Ghana is close behind, producing about 632,037 metric tons of cocoa beans accounting for 14.9% of the world’s total. Nigeria follows with 427,800 metric tons accounting for 10.1%. Cameroon rounds out the top 5 accounting for 6.2% of the world cocoa bean total producing about 264,077 metric tons a year. All these countries producing cocoa beans have experienced increases in production with the exception of Ghana who faced a decline in productivity from the year before. Those countries in West Africa account for nearly two-thirds of the world are the leading producers in terms of metric tons distributed to other companies for processing. With nearly two-thirds of the world’s cocoa producers in West Africa, they are close to monopolizing the cocoa industry. Processors of cocoa beans can find the best producers of cocoa beans in one area and these producers are more than willing to supply at the right price. Over forty percent of the world’s cocoa is consumed in Europe and the remaining percent is distributed across the world globally. Cocoa is the main ingredient in what is universally known as the world’s most popular sweet, chocolate. There are about five-six million cocoa farmers worldwide, many in West Africa. 40-50 million people depend on cocoa for their livelihoods as people especially in West Africa depend on the jobs that cocoa farms provide for the people who live in the area. The economics behind cocoa production is th e livelihood for millions of West Africans. If the cocoa tree is taken away then the locals in West Africa may resort to the coca plant which is a base root for cocaine production. This may also lead into more complications resulting in food riots from people not being able to feed themselves, and drug trafficking which can also have implications for human trafficking as well. There are certain conditions that may hinder or halt cocoa bean production. Like many commodities, cocoa is considered a soft commodity; we can only continue to produce if we are careful with our product. Overharvesting is a major issue in the world of cocoa beans. In the early days of cocoa production, less cocoa beans were used to create milk and white chocolate was highly desired in the less conscientious health world of the mid to late 1900’s. In recent years there has been a major switch in preferences by consumers becoming more health conscientious. Most particularly in the Europe and North American markets has the demand for darker, healthier chocolate become more apparent. Due to these changes there has been an unprecedented cocoa consumption as more cocoa beans are being u sed to create dark chocolate in the last 5 years or so. In a study done by the Scientific American news article, a study revealed that further climate changes can cause West Africa to become too hot to grow cocoa beans. If this were to occur, domestic and international economies would be impacted immensely. The cocoa production farms have attributed to lowering the spikes in poverty, drug trafficking, and food riots by providing many with a legitimate means of making money and providing for themselves and their families. It has been projected that by 2060 over half the cocoa producing countries will become too hot. The cocoa industry is valued around $5.1 billion and with West Africa housing the top 5 producers. This includes the top two producers in the Ivory Coast, and Indonesia which account for more than half of the three million tons sold annually according to the World Cocoa Foundation. In 2020, predictions indicate a 1.5 million ton shortage. Weather predictions believe that El Nino could cause more problems for producers, consumers, and those who rely on the cocoa farms. As cocoa shortages increase, there are bound to be increases in demand for cocoa as more and more markets continue to buy into the commodity. In recent years, Europe and North America have been the largest buyers of cocoa. New countries however, are beginning to see the potential in cocoa and have begun to make their moves and are buying into a commodity that maybe wasn’t as sought after before. China and South Korea are buying into the commodity, which will make it harder for buyers to contract the amount desired if shortages continue and weather proves to be the deciding factor impacting West Africa. The hope now is that scientists can come up with a drought resistant strain of cocoa bean able to withstand the heat; however farmers are taking it upon themselves to develop farming techniques to help the cocoa beans survive harsher conditions. Re-creating optimal conditions is such as temperature is easy, however re-creating the taste is nearly impossible. Change the landscape, or geographical location of where the cocoa beans are harvest, and the taste changes considerably. The need to keep cocoa producers in West Africa has become an important issue for many of West Africa’s population who depend on cocoa production for their livelihoods. West Africa currently holds the best location for cocoa production in terms of elevation, climate, and temperatures that give the cocoa beans its distinct look, taste, and aroma that attracts so many. Moving the production to another country such as Asia or Russia, who generally have cooler temperatures can impact the taste and quality of the overall product. West Africa’s location is great because it is near the equator which keeps the temperatures and weather conditions relatively warm. Conditions like these are difficult to find, if not impossible to find anywhere else. Also child labor has been a constant issue in West Africa. This is especially true in regards to the production of cocoa. This issue has been predominantly an issue in the Ivory Coast, who is the leading supplier of cocoa to many different companies in Europe, and North America. With cocoa prices remaining relatively low, the need to lower labor costs becomes a necessity as production struggles to survive; thus children are employed to work the crops for cheap. According to the International Cocoa Organization, it has been estimated that more than 109,000 children work in the Ivory Coast’s cocoa industry and are working under the worst conditions. Not only are the conditions terrible by traditional standards but many as 10,000 of these kids are victims of human trafficking or enslavement. In 2010, a 10 million dollar program was given to the world’s top cocoa growing region in the Ivory Coast and Ghana who share a common cash crop. This program intended to prevent and stop the use of child labor on cocoa farms but faces many difficulties in its pursuit to end child labor in West Africa. By giving these companies the money to boost their revenue they can afford to not have child labor as a way to mitigate costs. Children are put to work carrying heavy loads, spraying toxic chemicals, and in danger of severely hurting themselves in the process of producing and harvesting crops. In a recent report in 2011 by BBC News, there was little change to the situation with child labor on the Ivory Coast. Companies who buy from the Ivory Coast and any production plant in West Africa are being asked to take more responsibility and getting more involved with the production from which they are buying from. Simply paying for cocoa beans is not enough. The emphasis here is corporate social responsibility. West Africa is undoubtedly in need of development and European and North America companies are the best possible source for development in West Africa. Roads, schools, hospitals, and social areas for the youth to gather would significantly help the people of West Africa. Companies such as Kraft foods, Mars Inc., Nestle, Ferrero Group, and Hershey Foods Corp are all major players in the cocoa industry who buy and process the cocoa beans into chocolate. The main distribution channel for the cocoa industry is the retail channel. Cocoa beans are harvested and sold by the metric tons to companies such as Kraft, Nestle, Ferrero, and Hershey’s. These companies then process the beans and manufacture the final chocolate product in their factories which are then distributed to retail stores across the country. A primary value driver for chocolates and other confectionary sweets is taste. Despite the recent recession, the cocoa and chocolate industry continued to grow and expand. People love chocolate and demand for chocolate has continued to grow. This demand and love for chocolate is beginning to make its way into highly populated areas such as China and India where the middle class is large, strong, and growing. Chocolate has been considered an affordable luxury. Despite rising health concerns chocolate is still in high demand, more specifically dark chocolate. The producers of cocoa beans like the Ivory Coast produce a commodity that is in high demand due to its versatility. Chocolate has many uses including, foods like desserts, sweets, and candy, medicine, and cosmetics. Dark chocolate has been proved to be part of a healthy diet. It is known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and has eight times the antioxidants of strawberries. In the chocolate and confectionary sweets industry, there are many long standing traditions that make chocolate such a strong industry. For decades, chocolates have been a staple of gift giving, like flower shops who focus on the sale of flowers, themed chocolates and delivery. Companies such as Costco, who sell in bulk, sell assortments of chocolate and charge by the pound. Premium or high end chocolate has been increasing in sales since the economy has been making strikes in recovery from the recession. On site baking has become more popular now as the smell of chocolate acts as free advertising. The chocolate and cocoa industry has remained strong and resilient from effects of the economy and the recent recession. Cur rently West Africa is producing cocoa under unstable political conditions. The turmoil and civil war on the Ivory Coast has left the country divided and suffering. Despite accusations that the Ivory Coast production of cocoa beans has been providing weapons and funding for both sides of the civil war, the production has been a ray of hope for the country. Due to the jobs provided for the people living in West Africa, crime rates and drug trafficking has declined, allowing people to work for a living that provides them the opportunity to live a life free of drugs and violence that has torn the land apart. The turmoil from the civil war on the Ivory Coast has caused prices to rise. Despite the rise in prices, companies continue to buy but at some point in the rise in prices, companies will pass. In January the price for a ton of cocoa was a little over $2,300. In September prices peaked at the highest it has ever been this year at just over $2,600. The price fell just slight at $2,463.54 a ton in October. With the turmoil in West Africa causing unstable political governments and civil war tearing the country apart, prices are expected to rise. This data was courtesy from the international cocoa organization. Strategy to reduce cost and/or assure supply With any commodity in the 21st century, constant usage and harvesting are issues that if not monitored can lead to shortages in supply, or possibly depletion of the commodity. There are bound to be problems somewhere along the timeline that can affect the condition of the commodity. Cocoa is no different in that there is constant threat of the commodity becoming scarce globally. Regardless of the recent recession and the recovering economy, cocoa is one of the few commodities around that wasn’t affected to a great extent as other commodities. To begin the 2012 year cocoa per ton cost buyers a little over $2,300. From January through August, the price of cocoa faced many ups and down but never going any lower than the price point in January. In September the price peaked at its highest price point for U.S. companies’ purchasing cocoa beans per ton at over $2,600. Since then it has dropped slightly but is expected to rise according to the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO). Here is a graph illustrating the price changes for the year (Data courtesy of International Cocoa Organization). According to the scientific American news, the cocoa industry is already reporting a 1.5 million ton shortage within the next 10 years or so. What could this potentially do to the price of cocoa in the coming months? Years? If shortages continue to increase than prices can only go up with each coming month. Now while the supply of cocoa decreases, global demand has been projected to rise for a commodity that is becoming more valuable and scarce by the order. The cocoa industry has a strong position in the market as a commodity that is versatile in its uses. The cocoa industry deals with futures contracts which basically means that the buyer agrees to pay for the shipment based on the price of the product the day the contract was made official. Commodity pricing constantly fluxuates monthly, therefore a futures contract protects both parties from any undue damage from prices increasing or decreasing. Reports from several sources including the Huffington Post, and commodity help HQ, have high hopes for the future of cocoa in terms of it being able to sustain itself. Numbers at this time last year are up and there isn’t a reason to really worry about the state of the cocoa industry. Placing an order for cocoa is very similar to writing a math equation. A simple cocoa contract consists of many key specifications. Each contract must state the ticker symbol, contract size or how much cocoa is being ordered; usually in metric tons, deliverable grades which depends on the growth of the country or climate and is divided into three grades. Countries such as the ones in West Africa; Ghana, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone are the main crops and receive a grade A classification. Classifications of B or C are smaller and cheaper, such as Venezuela, Malaysia and Haiti. Next the trader or buyer must specific contract months, which are specified by letter coding for each month; for example May is coded K. Next the trading hours must be specified, last trading day, last delivery day, price quotes, tick size which indicates what the size of the order is, and daily price limits. An example formula can read â€Å"CC8K @ 1363†. The CC is the ticker symbol, the 8 indicates the year (2008), K tells us the month which is May, and the numbe r indicates the dollar amount per metric ton. Say the order size was 10 metric tons, the size would be multiplied by the dollar amount per ton. When it comes to possibilities of making cocoa in house, for many companies it becomes a daunting task and nearly impossible to simulate the conditions that allow cocoa trees to grow optimally. It is nearly impossible to produce the same cocoa beans as the beans grown in West Africa. Near the equator where it’s optimally warm, the conditions are right, the soil is ripe to grow cocoa beans in which give the bean a distinct taste. Moving production anywhere else may change the taste and alter the quality. Temperatures for healthy growth range from 69-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures lower than 59 can become fatal for the plant. Also adding to the tough conditions is that cocoa trees need no more than 2000 millimeters of annual rainfall. These conditions can leave the tree vulnerable to climate changes. In a study done by the Scientific American news site, scientists are predicting that by 2060 half of the cocoa producing countries may become too hot. The heat is not the only problem in this situation; it’s the pollinators of the trees that become affected as well. Bees and butterflies are common pollinators and cocoa flowers can be pollinated by midges, small flies or by hand. However these climate shifts in temperature could leave the country without bee colonies. In 1983-1984, cocoa production had reached a respectable level of 1.5 million tons. In twenty years this number doubled. The troubling fact to be considered here was that the number hadn’t doubled because of any technological advancement but because more land was acquired. The Ivory Coast is one of the most unstable countries in the world not just politically but economically. Civil war has divided the landscape and because of the lack of growth the country has remained third world. Lack of education, jobs, and healthy outlets have left many West Africans to turn to drug dealing and human trafficking. With the extra land acquired for the cocoa trees, labor was short and there were plenty of children to put to work. The world is looking to put an end to child labor in cocoa producing countries. The cocoa industry has quite the road ahead of them towards recovery as an industry and as a nation for which they work in. Realistically there is no suitable substitute for this commodity. With nearly 70% of the world’s cocoa produced in West Africa, which includes the Ivory Coast, Indonesia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. With climate changes making weather conditions too hot, which will indefinitely affect the top three producers of cocoa beans in the Ivory Coast and Indonesia, and Ghana, it will become difficult for countries to get their cocoa. Before when it was just Europe and North America, supplies could take such a hit; but with developing middle class countries like China, and South Korea coming into the mix it will be tougher to acquire what is needed. Shortages lead to price increases, and at some point companies will simply pass on the commodity and move onto other things until prices fall. There are several solutions to the problems environmentally, politically, and agriculturally in West Africa. Corporations who buy cocoa from these countries may need to step in to help the growth of the country by providing access to education, hospitals, all the essentials that help societies grow. Corporations may give money to these countries to help production and attempt to prevent child labor practices but it will never be enough. Political instability , civil war, and child labor are all issues connected to the well being of communities tied to West Africa. Another solution is possibly a pipe dream but a realistic attempt at countering climate changes that could affect the cocoa trees. Scientists are working on creating heat resistant beans to counter the rise in temperatures so that crops can be more resilient and yield more. Moving crops to cooler climates in Russia and Asia have also been considered to balance the additional heat. One other solution is to help the farmers directly. Teach the farmers techniques; show them methods that they can use on their farms. Help provide proper and modern tools and technology to make the entire farming process easier for everyone. It is difficult to say what is right and what is wrong in this instance but something needs to be done if European and American companies wish to satisfy a rising demand with such a versatile commodity. Commodity HQ, a trading a commodity research site predicts that the futures for cocoa is strong and has been soaring compared to last year’s performance. Cocoa is one of the most popular soft commodities in the market. Regardless of the drop in futures and the effects of the most recent recession, cocoa has remained strong and resilient to any effects. By the end of 2011, cocoa futures have experienced a 41% drop. Comparing this year’s numbers to last year there is already a 7.6% increase and this number for this year has continued to soar. When looking at the production of cocoa, the Ivory Coast is the leader as they double the production of their next best competitor in Indonesia. The clientele who buy cocoa from West African countries like the Ivory Coast and Indonesia are modern, well developed countries like the U.S. whereas West Africa is still very much third world. As demand continues to grow as demonstrated with China and South Korea entering the cocoa market along with the U.S. and Europe, this list is only going to grow as the commodity becomes more popular. As weather conditions affect the production of cocoa, civil war on the Ivory Coast, child labor, and over harvesting effect the commodity, shortages will occur. When shortages occur, prices rise exponentially, which leaves one to wonder how far can the price increase before companies around the world decide to call it quits and pull out of the cocoa industry? People love chocolate, and that is not an understatement. Cocoa, cocoa powder, chocolate, and cocoa butter are all variations of the original plant. The future of cocoa looks very bright. The only external factors that may affect the commodity are the political strife’s, climate changes, and practices in production. Works Cited Cadbury. Cocoa and Chocolate. 2012. 26 October 2012 http://www.worldagroforestry.org/treesandmarkets/inaforesta/documents/cocoa%20and%20chocolate/cocoa%20and%20chocolate.pdf. Canizaro, Mark. All About Chocolate. 2002. 26 October 2012 http://www.xocoatl.org/variety.htm. Service, Transport Information. Cocoa Beans. 2012. 26 10 2012 http://www.tis-gdv.de/tis_e/ware/genuss/kakao/kakao.htm.