Chinese Current Religion Development Situation Term Paper

Chinese Current Religion Development Situation - Term Paper Example Indeed, the religion has enjoyed a lot of support from the masses and became a guiding ideology in the Chinese context. However, Confucianism did not actually develop into a concrete national belief. Presently, over 85 % of the Chinese people subscribe to some form of religious orientation while the rest are regarded as real atheists. The atheists comprise those who do not have any religious guiding philosophy and do not engage in any religious activities in their lives. Since the beginning of Chinese history, religion in the country has always been characterized by pluralism. Religion in the country basically depends upon the free will of the people and does not really require any form of adherence. In this regard, Buddhism remains one of the most widely practiced forms of religion in the country. Indeed, this religion has a very rich history in the country dating back to the 1st century. In the same way, popular religion is one of the most widely accepted religious traditions. ... Christians make up close to 4% of the total population while Muslims stand at 1.5%. It is further important to note that several religious movements are scattered across the country considering that China is a very large country with a huge population. Many of the intellectuals in China mostly subscribe to Confucianism. Indeed, religion is a very integral part of Chinese society and this is clearly evidenced through the presence of many tall religious statues across the country. These statutes were created to represent various deities and religious personalities from the different forms of religion realized in the country (Clart, 54). The republic of China was established in 1949 and the government of the country is officially atheist. Indeed, the government views religion as a form of feudalism and an imposition of colonialism on the people and does not therefore support or regard any religion as above the other. However, the people of China are always free in terms of making their decisions. More importantly, the government has established a strong separation between the state and the church. Much of the changes with respect to religion were realized during the Cultural Revolution between 1966 and 1967 which was a policy basically geared towards the elimination of religions. During this time, many places of worship in the country were destroyed. There was a considerable relaxation of this policy in the 1970s which marked the end of the Revolution and subsequently religious expression was permitted in the country (Jenner, 46). The 1978 Constitution of China guarantees freedom of religion for everyone in Article 36. As such, it is a policy that no one shall be discriminated upon on the basis of their religion or compelled to join any religion. There

Film reflection onWW2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Film reflection onWW2 - Essay Example The scene that is being analyzed is the first indicating scene that there are plots to kill Adolf Hitler. This scene shows how a bomb is smuggled on board a plane containing Hitler in order to kill him. This sets up the story of who is involved in the eventual plot that is the highlight of the film. It frames the desperation of those involved as well as the difficulty for killing Hitler despite the numerous attempts. There are three key narratives that frame the story. The first (N1) is that of Major General Henning von Treskow played by Kenneth Branagh who is the first in the film to attempt to assassinate Hitler. The second (N2) is that of Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg, played by Tom Cruise, whose personal life and his decision making is used to show how the event of the attempted coup affected the private life of a key participant. Finally, the third key (N3) is that of the conspirators as they participate in putting the plan into action. Another narrative or N4 is that of the le ader of the army, Major Otto Ernst Remer who was used by the conspirators in order to try to arrest the SS and contain their biggest threat to changing the German government. Key: CU – Close Up Shot ECU – Extreme Close Up LS – Long Shot TMS – Tight Medium Shot POV – Point of View MS – Medium Shot INT – Interior EXT – Exterior SEQ 6 Desperate Measures The sequence in which Major-General Henning von Treskow gives a bomb that will be on board an airplane with Adolph Hitler on board is a short, but intense sequence of events. The narrative that shows the story of Treskow is labeled N1, or narrative number 1. Shot 1. (3 sec) It begins with a medium shot pan from right to left of a vehicle as it is partially covered by shrubbery, which can be an indication that what is being done is something that is secret and should be kept under cover. The sun is just setting behind the vehicle. The camera angle is straight on, but slightly low. S hot 2. (1 sec) This shot is in the INT of the back of the truck. The shot is an ECU that focuses on liquid being poured into a bottle. The green of the glass is highlighted against the amber tones of the rest of the shot. The intensity of the scene is punctuated by low music, repetitive and with a deep drum beat that is steady throughout the course of the scene. Shot 3. (1 sec) The shot is a CU of the man pouring the liquid which quickly as Treskow comes into the tent and announces that Hitler is leaving. The tones remain low key and the lighting is minimal reflecting the nature of their business as they are constructing a bomb. Shot 4. (1 sec) The shot cuts to a TMS as Treskow enters the room confirming once more that Hitler is in the process of leaving. Light can be seen coming n through the window that is partially covered with a cloth. Shot 5. (4 sec) The scene cuts to the hand of the man creating the bomb as an ECU reveals him fumbling quickly to get the cap on the bottle. He l ays it on its back and Treskow’s hand moves to put the rest of the assembly for the bomb into the bottom. His hands are trembling as the time is short. Shot 6. (2 sec ) The shot pulls back to a TMS in which they begin to insert the detonator for the mechanism. Shot 7. (2 sec) A CU of the detonator being put in place increases the tension. Shot 8. (1 sec) TMS Treskow hears the plane and turns his head Shot 9. (1 sec) ECU of Treskow as he looks back to his

Market Analysis for Buffet Restaurant

Market Analysis for Buffet Restaurant The creation of a unique, innovative, entertaining, mid scale atmosphere that will differentiate us from the competition. The highest quality food is unbelievably low prices in a clean, fun environment. Controlling costs at all times, in all areas. Hiring the best people available, training, motivating and encouraging them, and thereby retaining the friendliest, most efficient staff possible. Section II: Business description Mission: We want our guests to have the total experience when visiting Enjoy with us. Not only will our guests receive a great meal, they will also be provided with a fun atmosphere. We will be doing unique things (such as serving all you can eat) that will set us apart from the competition. We will want the dining experience to be as pleasing to the senses as it is to the palate. Our main focus will be serving quality food at a great value. We will feature a large selection of freshly prepared food, most in full view of our guests. The purpose is service that customer satisfaction is paramount. Particularly, we want to be the restaurant of choice for everyone: families and singles, young and old, male or female. On the other hand, employee welfare will be important to our success. We want our employee to feel a part of the success of Enjoy with us. Happy employees make happy guests. Similarly, we will combine menu variety, atmosphere, ambiance, and friendly staff to create a sense of place in order to reach our goal of overall value in entertainment experience. Why do we think tourists come our shop? First of all, as we know, Singapore is a country includes 3 national (India, Chinese, and Malaysia). So, this reason is very comfortable to attract travelers come to Singapore. We think when they travel to Singapore; they want to try traditional food in this country surely. Consequently, we will decide to business Buffet restaurant. With Buffet restaurant, customer can try 3 kinds of food of 3 different national easily. Secondly, we would like to open this restaurant called Enjoy with us!!!. This means when customers come with us, they can enjoy their taste by themselves wholeheartedly. Lastly, we choose our business in Sentosa because this place is most tourists will come during their tour surely. It will take place around 1,000 square meters and totally designed to reflect and describe all kinds of food in 3 national. Our short term goal is to catch people interested and slowly gain market share from other restaurant. Our long term goal is to be well known in the world. This means when people talk about restaurant in Singapore, they will think about our restaurant immediately. Start up fund: S$5 Million investment As we know, Sentosa is an icon of Singapore, so the rental will be very expensive (around S$300,000). Moreover, our business is new, so we need to use about 10% of the budget cost to build our brand name (around S$500,000). Furthermore, this restaurant business plan is prepared to obtain financing for the initial launch of this concept. The financing is required to begin work on kitchen design, architectural plans, manuals and recipe books, site selection, equipment purchases, and to cover expenses in the first year of business (around S$2,000,000). In addition to the capital contributions, it will allow buffet restaurant to successfully open and maintain operations through year one. On the other hand, concentration will be on maintaining quality and establishing a strong identity in each local market. Similarly, we also need to pay management fees and salaries to staff (around S$900,000 for first year). Besides that, we need to require cash and long term asset (around S$1,000,000). Consequently, our business will need about S$5 million. Section III: Marketing A. Research and analysis: Target market (customer) identified: In looking at our market analysis, we have defined the following groups as targeted segments. Below are our targeted market segments: Age: Seniors, young married couples with children, teenagers, citizens. (Especially foreigners) Gender: we will equally target both sexes. Income: We will appeal to the high side of low income individuals and to all in the middle income bracket. By our definition, we will have very broad appeal for our concept. It is our goal to be the restaurant of choice for the largest dining audience in Asia and Europe. Singapore has more than 10 millions tourism arrivals in 2008. With the number of tourism arrival to Singapore like that, this condition has advantage to our business. Furthermore, with our restaurants seating almost 400 people, however, we hope it will have an average of 300 customers everyday for the first year and to grow 20% each year. It is our goal to have something for everyone everyday on our menu. Particularly, we need to maintain our loyalty as we should focus on their changing needs and menu choices. Besides that, our lunch strategy is dual purposed. As we know, some kinds people do not have lunch time, from that reason, we want to keep the price point at lunch as low as possible to keep us in competition with fast food restaurant. Not only do our guests get a sandwich, drink, and fries but also a salad, dessert and a selection of hot food items. On the other hand, we can reduce the hot food assortment from dinner; we will be able to keep our food cost in line with the reduced price. Consequently, we think this is a strategy that will broaden our customer base at lunch while still maintaining our core market segment. 2) Market needs: Our business is Buffet restaurant, so we think we need to focus on: Seeks strong value. Wants variety and flavor in its food. Looks for speed of service. Wants an entertaining dining experience. Insists upon a clean, friendly, and attractive dining environment. 3) Competitive advantages: As we know, Singapore is a country which attract tourists come and travel. Furthermore, they want to spend leisure time. This factor contributed to the large demand for good restaurant in Singapore today. From that reasons, the competition is strong. Due to intense competition, our restaurant must look for ways to differentiate their place in order to achieve and maintain a competitive advantage. a) Competitive comparison: In competing against the casual theme restaurant, we will have the following advantages: Lower price point for a complete meal. There will be no tipping at Enjoy with us, we are self service. Speed of service: no waiting for food. Everything will be readily available: hot, fresh, and cooked as requested. We will provide more entertainment than our competition. There will be something for everyone, everyday of the week. There will be no confusing menu board when guests arrive at our restaurant. We have made it simple: one price, everything included b) Technology: we will invest in a high speed computer to provide a fast and comfortable connection to link to our cash registers. We will also order online, email, and have a Web page. B. Marketing plan: 1) Market strategy sales and distribution: Our main focus in marketing will be to increase customer awareness in the surrounding community. We will direct all of our tactics and programs toward the goal of explaining who we are and what we are all about. We will price our products fairly, keep our standards high. Price strategy: All menu items are moderately priced. Sales strategy: The sales strategy is to build and open new locations on schedule in order to increase revenue. 2) Pricing and opening hours: Buffet Breakfast (6.00 am to 11.00am, Mon to Sun) : Adults $20, Child $10 Buffet Lunch (12.00 noon to 2.30pm, Mon to Sun): Adults $ 30, Child $ 15 Buffet Dinner (6.30 pm to 5.30 pm, Mon to Sat) : Adults $ 40, Child $ 25 Especially Buffet (6.30 pm to 11.00 pm) : Adults $ 50, Child $30 Note: Child = 5-12 years old. Free for accompanied child under 5 years old. All prices subject to 10% service charge and 7% GST. Prices subject to change. Our business includes: Buffet Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Particularly, we have 1 special service that always serves every Sunday. This service will free flow of soft drinks juices, draft beer and selected wines and champagne. 3) Advertising and promotion: Our business is new, so we need to have a good marketing plan to compete with them. Im going to use 10% of the budget cost which is 1/2 million to build our brand name. You will see our advertising everywhere, on television, on train, on the bus and news paper and also in the magazine of Singapore airlines, Tiger airways, Jetstar airlines. Website is not very important as we dont provide online purchase but we should have a nicely designed web to let people can do a research Enjoy with us!!! Leaflets will be given at all MRTs for 1 working day from 5pm to 6 pm; this is the most crowded time when people are going home after works. Particularly, in Singapore, they trade so many restaurants. Consequently, let to our business for advantages, we will have strategy as: Does not have the widest variety of food but everything here is of great quality. Free flow of fresh fruit juice, e.g. mango, pink guava, apple juices; self serve from bottles chilled in crushed ice. To-die-for desserts and pastries youd wish you had 2 stomachs! Always give promotion and discount on weekend days or holidays. Always change and prepare different kinds of food. It will make interesting in customer. They can come again and again. Section IV: Operations Quality food: fresh food, home style care. Variety, Variety, Variety: A different menu for everyday of the week will feature. Self service: Every new guest will receive a guided tour explaining our concept and the self serve system. Friendly employees: our employees will be ringing dinner bells when fresh foods come out. Furthermore, we will dress uniform that our customers can organize us easily. Reduced dinner pricing: on Monday Thursday, the dinner price will be slightly lower than on Fri/Sat/Sun. On the other hand, our principal owner will offer outside ownership in Enjoy with us!!! on an equity, debt, or combination basis in order to facilitate the start up and growth of our restaurant. Start up: Kitchen design Architecture plans Training: this will cover training of employees and management as well as cleaning and organizing the restaurant to opening. Manuals/Handbooks/Recipes. Building/ Land/ Equipment: we can build from ground up or we can do conversions from existing or close restaurants. Number of staffs: 10 managers, 5 securities, 15 waitresses, 5 bartenders, 2 receptionists, 2 cashiers, 3 chef, 5 cook helper. Location and facilities: Sentosa is the best place to open this kind of business because traveler can discover our shop easier and they can enjoy easily. With this location, we can attract customer from oversea and also citizen. They can come our restaurant on weekend to relax. Proximity to supplies: Supply can get from Malaysia, China, India directly or intermediary in Singapore. Access to transportation: Transport of foods and materials by sea or plane. Moreover, we need to have warehouse storage to hold foods and materials. Section V: Management A. Management team: As our restaurant is small business, it requires a simple organizational structure. Implementation of this organization to make all of the major management decisions in addition to monitoring all other business activities Management Team Legal structure stock agreement, employment agreements, ownership: Carefully to partnership or corporation. Need to follow legal about business in Singapore. Need to clear about employment agreement, stock agreement. C. Board of directors, advisers, consultants: Board of director is the principal owner. They will offer outside ownership in Enjoy with us!!! to improve our restaurant. Section VI: Financial A. Financial plan: Sales: our restaurant will open on 1/1/2011. Cost of goods sold: The cost of goods sold was determined by taking actual Profit and Loss statements from various restaurant concepts and then using our pricing structure and guest counts to arrive at costs. Marketing Fees: these funds will be used for the production of various marketing materials. Advertising: these funds will be used to maintain our sales at projected levels. Management Fees: we will use these dollars for accounting and payroll services of our firm. Fixed and Variable Expensed: The various fixed and variable expenses were determined by taking actual numbers from restaurant. B. Important assumption: We assume a strong economy, without a major recession. We assume, of course, that there are no unforeseen changes in consumers tastes or interests to make our concept less competitive. C. Financial forecast: Because our budget is $5 millions. So we can calculate below: 1) Break even analysis: Variable costs: 25% Cost of goods sold : $1,250,000 17% Employee payroll : $ 850,000 0.25% Credit card charges : $ 12,500 0.33% marketing fees : $ 16,500 2% Management fees : $ 100,000 10% Advertising : $ 500,000 2% Management bonus : $100,000 3.03% Employee payroll taxes and benefits: $151,500 1.5% Paper and cleaning : $ 75.000 61.11% Total variable costs : $3,055,500 Annual fixed costs $170,000 Management salaries $37,000 Management payroll taxes and benefits $16,410 Group insurance $137,000 Controllable expenses minus credit card charges and paper/ cleaning $40,208 Other expenses minus marketing fees, advertising, and management fees $100,000 Depreciation $500,000 Rental $1,000,618 Total fixed costs Start up asset: Cash required : $ 200,000 Long term asset : $ 700,000 Total asset : $ 900,000 Total requirements = Total variable cost + Total fixed cost + Total asset = $3,055,500 + $1,000,618 + $900,000 = $4,956,118 2) Profit and Loss: With an estimate of 300 customers everyday and to grow 20% each year (1.67% per month), lets say 1 customer will spend at least $40. We can see profit and loss account below: From profit and loss table, we can see: Payback period = Y + A/B YÂÂ  = the number ofÂÂ  years before final payback year. In the example, Y = 5 years.ÂÂ   AÂÂ  = Total remaining to be paid back at the start of the payback year, to bring cumulative cash flow to 0,ÂÂ  A = $4,956,118 ($145,747 + $427,447 + $765,487 + $1,171,135 + $1,657,913) = $788,389 BÂÂ  = Total (net) paid back in the entire payback year. B = $2,242,046 So, payback period = 5 + $788,389/$2,242,046 = 5.35 years or 5 years and 4 months In conclusion, our business will take back our capital after 5 years and 4 months. Section VII: Critical risks 1) Challenges: Because our business will be opened in Singapore which attracts different countries come and enjoy. Our challenges will service many kinds people and always have to make them comfortable and enjoy themselves when they come our restaurant. Consequently, we always need to update new ideas and try to have a good service. On the other hand, our purpose wants to make earn lots of money; we need to overcome challenges to have a good business 2) Risks and Contingency: Potential risks Trigger Contingency plan Food Related Lawsuits Our restaurant can be sued after a customer becomes after eating and contracting a food borne illness. Safe handling of food is an important priority for our restaurant. Liquor Liability If we serve beer, wine or other liquor. Need to test quality before sale products. Be sure we are protected from lawsuits resulting from alcohol related incidents. Property Risks Operating a restaurant often includes considerable equipment, building improvements and food stock. We need to buy insurance Price Need to cutting by competitors With Competitors, they will do anything to survive. So we always need to control the price. Number of customer Our plan needs 300 customer/day. Maybe, number of customer will not come enough. In this case, our management team will sit back to find out the reason. It could be caused by price or our marketing program was not effective, or it may be customer-service problems. Delay to complete the business plan When we will plan, maybe time for activities will be delayed This risk is very important. It directly affects all other progresses of the business. Production manager will be aware of this to make sure the chance of this risk equals to zero. Kitchen and electrical fire Overloaded or malfunctioning electrical equipment is a particular risk for our restaurant. Prevention is our best insurance! Be sure that we have appropriate fire suppression systems in place and maintained. Insurance companies typically require that our heat producing cooking equipment, particularly grease sources (fryers, grills, ranges), have aÂÂ  wet chemical fire suppression system and vent hood overhead. Section VIII: Harvest strategy segment Marketing strategy: Advertising is still word of mouth Promotion strategy: 3 different marketing tactics: Word of mouth/ in store marketing. Local Store Marketing (LSM) Local media Positioning Statement: It will be to increase customer awareness in the surrounding community. Pricing strategy: All menu items are moderately priced. Sales Strategy: the sales strategy is to build and open new locations on schedule in order to increase revenue. Sales forecast: opening day for our store is scheduled on 1st January, 2011. Section X: References Book: Federick, Howard (2006). Entrepreneurship: theory, process, and practice. Australia: Michael Tully. p.p.269 276. Website: Anon. (2010). Is your Restaurant a safe Investment? Available: http://www.quoteaustininsurance.com/pages/home/restaurant.php. Last accessed 3th May 2010. Anon. (2010). Singapore Tourism Board. Available: https://app.stb.gov.sg/asp/index.asp. Last accessed 3th May 2010. Anon. (2010). My tax portal. Available: https://mytax.iras.gov.sg/ESVWeb/default.aspx. Last accessed 3th May 2010. Anon. (2010). Which is the Best Buffet in Singapore?. Available: http://www.etour-singapore.com/buffet-in-singapore.html. Last accessed 3th May 2010.

Toxic Effects of Aluminum and Their Probable Association with Dialysis

Toxic Effects of Aluminum and Their Probable Association with Dialysis Encephalopathy Reports on the neurotoxic properties of Aluminum (Al++), as well as those of many other heavy metals, date as far back as the end of the nineteenth century. In 1965, Al was found to induce the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) in animal brains. These NFT’s were similar to those found in brains of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Vast research thus, was targeted at defining the possible etiologic role of Al in AD. However, several findings, among them the fact that Al++ induced NFT’s are structurally different than those found in AD, have contributed to reducing the importance placed on Al++ as an etiologic factor of AD. The Al++ theory, however, still remains a theory, and further research needs to be done before it can be disproved. In 1970, Alfrey and collaborators described a disease called dialysis encephalopathy (DE). This degenerative disease was seen in renal failure patients who had been undergoing dialysis. Studies following this initial report have implicated Al++ intoxication as a probable cause for the development of the disease. The purpose of this paper will be to describe the possible mechanisms by which Al may in fact act as a contributory factor the in induction of neural degeneration that may lead to DE. The neurological problems associated with chronic renal failure and its consequent treatment, namely hemodialysis, can be either acute or chronic. When acute, the patient develops a set of symptoms collectively referred to as dialysis disequilibrium syndrome (DDS). This syndrome presents with a transient loss or alteration of the sense of equilibrium due to disturbances to the vestibular sy... ...on, G., Cogdill, K., Jope, R. Oral Aluminum Alters In Vitro Protein Phosphorylation and Kinase Activities in Rat Brain. Neurobiology of Aging, 11: 209-16 (1990). 5) Johnson, G., Li, X., Jope, R. Aluminum Increases Agonist Stimulated Cyclic AMP Production in Rat Cerebral Cortical Slices. Journal of Neurochemistry, 53: 258-63 (1989). 6) Kerr, D., Ward, M., Ellis, H., Simpson, W. Aluminum Intoxication in Renal Disease. CIBA-Found-Symposium, 169: 123-41 (1992). 7) Langui, D., Probst, A., Anderton, B. Aluminum Induced Tangles in Cultured Rat Neurons. Acta Neuropathol., 80: 649-55 (1990). 8) Meiri, H., Banin, E., Roll, M., Rousseau, A. Toxic Effects of Aluminum on Nerve Cells and Synaptic Transmission. Progress in Neurobiology, 40: 89-121 (1993). 9) Wisniewski, H., Wen, G. Aluminum and Alzheimer’s Disease. CIBA-Found-Symposium, 169: 142-64 (1992). Toxic Effects of Aluminum and Their Probable Association with Dialysis Toxic Effects of Aluminum and Their Probable Association with Dialysis Encephalopathy Reports on the neurotoxic properties of Aluminum (Al++), as well as those of many other heavy metals, date as far back as the end of the nineteenth century. In 1965, Al was found to induce the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) in animal brains. These NFT’s were similar to those found in brains of patients suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Vast research thus, was targeted at defining the possible etiologic role of Al in AD. However, several findings, among them the fact that Al++ induced NFT’s are structurally different than those found in AD, have contributed to reducing the importance placed on Al++ as an etiologic factor of AD. The Al++ theory, however, still remains a theory, and further research needs to be done before it can be disproved. In 1970, Alfrey and collaborators described a disease called dialysis encephalopathy (DE). This degenerative disease was seen in renal failure patients who had been undergoing dialysis. Studies following this initial report have implicated Al++ intoxication as a probable cause for the development of the disease. The purpose of this paper will be to describe the possible mechanisms by which Al may in fact act as a contributory factor the in induction of neural degeneration that may lead to DE. The neurological problems associated with chronic renal failure and its consequent treatment, namely hemodialysis, can be either acute or chronic. When acute, the patient develops a set of symptoms collectively referred to as dialysis disequilibrium syndrome (DDS). This syndrome presents with a transient loss or alteration of the sense of equilibrium due to disturbances to the vestibular sy... ...on, G., Cogdill, K., Jope, R. Oral Aluminum Alters In Vitro Protein Phosphorylation and Kinase Activities in Rat Brain. Neurobiology of Aging, 11: 209-16 (1990). 5) Johnson, G., Li, X., Jope, R. Aluminum Increases Agonist Stimulated Cyclic AMP Production in Rat Cerebral Cortical Slices. Journal of Neurochemistry, 53: 258-63 (1989). 6) Kerr, D., Ward, M., Ellis, H., Simpson, W. Aluminum Intoxication in Renal Disease. CIBA-Found-Symposium, 169: 123-41 (1992). 7) Langui, D., Probst, A., Anderton, B. Aluminum Induced Tangles in Cultured Rat Neurons. Acta Neuropathol., 80: 649-55 (1990). 8) Meiri, H., Banin, E., Roll, M., Rousseau, A. Toxic Effects of Aluminum on Nerve Cells and Synaptic Transmission. Progress in Neurobiology, 40: 89-121 (1993). 9) Wisniewski, H., Wen, G. Aluminum and Alzheimer’s Disease. CIBA-Found-Symposium, 169: 142-64 (1992).

Loaded word

Among the words that were created and developed in the English language, â€Å"empowerment† remains an elusive yet most rampantly used term, especially in the field of civic engagement and community-building.   Empowerment is a word that contains with it social, political, and economic dimensions; however, its foci remains on the political dimension, wherein the objective is to experience or provide power to an individual or group. According to the World Bank, empowerment â€Å"is the process of enhancing the capacity of individuals or groups to make choices and transform those choices into desired actions and outcomes.†Ã‚   These capacities are social and/or economic in nature, and they are gained and developed through the utilization of resources available in people’s social environments.   Key to the achievement of empowerment is access to these resources, since it is only by the availability of these resources that individuals or groups are able to achieve development of their capacities. Empowerment is a loaded word because this concept is difficult to achieve, especially when social and economic factors are included in the achievement of empowerment.   This is the dilemma encountered among individuals or groups who try to achieve empowerment, as ascertained in their own terms.   Because empowerment could mean the achievement of capacities on the different aspects of a person’s life, empowerment is also subjected to varied interpretations of its success or failure. In fact, empowerment could also have positive and negative dimensions.   Positive empowerment is achieved when the individual/group feels empowered without letting other people feel subjugated; the converse is the effect of negative empowerment, wherein the individual/group feels empowered at the expense of another individual/group. Empowerment is reflected in the work of millionaire Bill Gates, who feels empowerment because of the economic resources that he has at his disposal and control.   These economic resources are the computer and information technologies, intellectual, and financial resources. His empowerment is reflected in his ability to command his IT company Microsoft, to live comfortably and not feel the scarcity of resources about him, and to provide support to other people who needs empowerment in different areas in their lives.   He is an individual who experienced empowerment because of his intellect, and through his intellect, he was able to capacitate himself further by accumulating economic wealth and the ability to be a â€Å"mover† in the industry of computer and information technologies. People who have not yet experienced empowerment in terms of development are the Papuans, of the Pacific Island Papua New Guinea.   Papuans are considered not empowered when it comes to their health, wherein there are still individuals and groups who experience health affliction such as tuberculosis (TB) and malaria.   In TB alone, Papuans remain far behind versus other developing and underdeveloped countries. This is why, in order to promote health empowerment among Papuans, funding agencies are supporting them in terms of economic resources, such as providing supplies of medicines and laboratory equipment to the health sector of the country.   In addition to providing economic resources, agencies are also providing capacity-building support to the village members, empowering them by providing them knowledge and skills in detecting TB patients and the treatment services available in their villages.   By controlling and preventing this disease alone, Papuans are empowered in a particular aspect of their lives: healthcare, particularly TB care and treatment.

Introduction to Economics Exercise 1

INTRODUCTION TO ECONOMICS Exercise 1 1. What determines that a resource be scarce? Why is scarcity important in defining Economics as a science Resources are seen as being scarce, when the wants exceed the resources. The fundamental problem of economics relates to the choices made in the face of limited resources and unlimited wants. 2. Read your local newspaper and economic magazines. Explain the difference between Microeconomics and Macroeconomics. From your research, give three examples of microeconomic and macroeconomic issues.Microeconomics relates to the study of households and firms and the interaction between these different economic actors. Macroeconomics, however, relates to the study of the economy as a whole, and in particular problems pertaining to growth, unemployment and inflation. Examples of microeconomic issues: 1. price ceilings/floors 2. positive/negative externalities 3. elasticity Examples of macroeconomic issues: 1. inflation 2. unemployment 3. economic growth (GDP) 3. Regarding the concept of Opportunity Cost, comment how your opportunity cost of going to the movies may be affected when: a.You have a final exam the following day b. The University will be shut down for a month starting today c. The same movie will be shown on TV tomorrow a) increase b) decrease c) increase 4. Explain if the following statements are true or false, Explain your reply d. The opportunity cost of choosing a certain activity is equal to the sum of all the benefits of all the alternatives not chosen. e. Opportunity cost is a subjective measure a) False – the opportunity cost of choosing a certain activity is equal to the cost of the next best alternative forgone. ) True – opportunity cost relates to the individual, in that they must choose how to maximize their own utility/happiness, and opportunity cost can vary from individual to individual. 5. Under what conditions is it possible to expand the Production Possibility Frontier (If it is not possib le, explain your reply) The PPF can expand during periods of technological innovation or the discovery of new resources. Or through the process of trade. 6. a) England 2/6 = 1/3, USA 1/5 b) Wheat = England, Clothes = England c) England = Wheat, USA = Clothes ) England should produce wheat and USA clothes. Using the following table Hours of work needed to produce one unit | England| USA| Wheat| 2| 1| Clothes| 6| 5| | | | a. What is the opportunity cost of producing wheat in England and in the USA b. Which country has an absolute advantage in the production of wheat, and of clothes c. Which country has a comparative advantage in producing wheat and producing clothes d. Which country should specialize in the production of wheat? And of clothes? a. GRAPH b. GRAPH c. GRAPHThe Price is above market equilibrium: If the price exceeds the equilibrium price, a surplus occurs and there will be competition among the sellers and price will come down to the equilibrium point. This way the equilib rium is tried to maintain in each of the cases. d. GRAPH Price is below the market equilibrium: If the price is below the equilibrium a shortage occurs and there will be a competition among the buyers and the price will rise to the equilibrium level. This is also another way to restore the equilibrium though there are changes that are occurring in the market in the prices. . The inferior good demand will decrease when consumer income rises. These goods are affordable and adequately fulfill their purpose, but as more costly substitutes that offer more pleasure become available, the use of the inferior goods diminishes. f. A  complementary good  is a  good  with a negative  cross elasticity of demand. This means the demand for a good will decrease when the price of the complementary good is increased. g. If there is a rumor that price for this good will increase, demand will probably increase too. Consumers want to purchase the product before any increase.All the market will be affect; we will see an increase of demand for main and complementary goods. Shortage will probably appear and price will increase to search equilibrium. Rumor will be reality. 7. Using the following demand and supply table Price| Demand| Supply| 1. 25| 8| 28| 1. 00| 14| 24| 0. 75| 20| 20| 0. 50| 26| 16| 0. 25| 32| 12| a. Graph the demand curve and the supply curve b. Identify the equilibrium price and equilibrium quantity c. Assume a price of 1. 00, Identify if there is shortage or surplus in the market and how the market forces behave to reinstate the equilibrium d.Now assume the price is 0. 50 and repeat the question above e. Now assume this is the market behavior for an inferior good, what would happen if the consumers income would increase from $ 25 to $ 32 a week f. Assume this markets complementary good? s price increases, what would happen in this market g. Assume there is a rumor that the price for this good will increases in the following days. How do expectations affec t this market? What will be the final outcome? For all the questions above you must support your answer with a graph. 8.Price elasticity of demand : (0,1)/(-0,2) = -1,5 The demand is elastic and sensitive to price changes. 9. Price elasticity of demand : ((0,38-0,5)/0,5) = -0,24 -24% ((26000-10000)/10000) = 1,6 160% (-0,24)/(1,6) = -0,15 The demand is elastic and sensitive to price changes. 10. a. Vodka: luxury good or superior good, making a vodka more expensive can increase its perceived value as a luxury good to such an extent that sales can go up, rather than down. b. Table Salt: necessity good, necessity goods are usually produced by a  public utility.We can't live without and won't likely cut back on even when times are tough c. Furniture: normal good, this does not necessarily refer to the quality of the good, but an abnormal good would clearly not be in demand, except for possibly lower socioeconomic groups. d. Perfume: luxury good or superior good, making a perfume more e xpensive can increase its perceived value as a luxury good to such an extent that sales can go up, rather than down. e. Beet: inferior good, we can replace beet by others foodstuffs more expensive, better quality or that give more pleasure like a meat. f.Sugar: necessity good, necessity goods are usually produced by a  public utility. We can't live without and won't likely cut back on even when times are tough. 11. Decision making is based on costs and benefits. That means you make purchases if the marginal benefits are greater than the price. Thus, when you decide to make a purchase, you are likely receiving something worth more to you than what you had to spend to buy it, or else you wouldn’t have bought it. That net benefit, minus the equilibrium price, is consumer surplus. 12. GRAPH b. With a price of 4$, Bert buys 2 bottles.His CS for 2 bottles: (7-4) + (5-4) = 3 + 1 = 4$ c. With a price of 2$, Bert buys 3 bottles. His CS for 3 bottles: (7-2) + (5-2) + (3-2) = 9$ 13. G RAPH A price ceiling occurs when the government puts a legal limit on how high the price of a product can be. In order for a price ceiling to be effective, it must be set below the natural market equilibrium. When a price ceiling is set, a shortage occurs. A price floor is the lowest legal price a commodity can be sold at. Price floors are used by the government to prevent prices from being too low.For a price floor to be effective, it must be set above the equilibrium price. 14. a. 4P – 80 = 100 – 2P 6P = 180 P = 30$ Q = 40 The equilibrium price is 30$ and the equilibrium quantity is 40 bushels b. GRAPH c. (0. 5) x (20) x (40) = 400 $ Consumer surplus (0. 5) x (10) x (40) = 200 $ Producer surplus 400 + 200 = 600 $ Surplus Equilibrium 15. f. The difference between marginal utility and total utility The marginal utility of a good or service is the gain or loss from an increase or decrease in the consumption of that good or service.All goods and services have their own m arginal utility. The total utility is the sum of all marginal utilities for a good or service. Total utility is the aggregate sum of satisfaction or benefit that an individual gains from consuming a given amount of goods or services. The more the person consumes, the larger his or her total utility will be. g. The principle of diminishing marginal utility Diminishing marginal utility is to use or consume a good or service with the most important or efficient utility for us.