Health Care Obama vs. McCain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Health Care Obama vs. McCain - Essay Example At the heart of the debate over health care are the philosophical underpinnings that determine where the responsibility for health care should lie. Obama's plan is a much more government centered plan that relies on regulation and government mandates to deliver health insurance. According to Meckler, Obama "would create a new government-run plan as well as an "exchange" in which private companies would offer insurance to compete with the government plan". This would mandate complete coverage for all children, expand the SCHIP program, and bring in many millions of adults under government funded private insurance as well as Medicaide (Bivens and Gould). Each of these actions amounts to increased regulation and extends government control over the health insurance industry (Meckler). However, this increased government involvement would assure a greater number of people are covered under the Obama plan as contrasted to the McCain plan. McCain's plan relies on market coverage and reduces the current dependence that workers have on company provided insurance. McCain's plan would drop the tax exemption for company paid health insurance and replace it with a direct tax credit. According to the Brookings Institute "Senator McCain has proposed replacing the current exclusion from income tax for health insurance provided by an employer with a refundable tax credit of $2,500 for singles and $5,000 for family coverage" (7). According to Bivens and Gould, "This change sets off a cascade of decision-making by firms and employees, the net effect of which would be to erode some of the incentives that employers and employees have to tie health care benefits to job-based compensation and encourage health care purchase through the individual market. It would also provide incentives for people to buy less comprehensive insurance coverage". The net long-term effect of the McCain plan is less coverage with little savings over the Ob ama plan. A much larger percentage of the uninsured would be covered under the Obama plan. According to the Economic Policy Institute, "The Obama plan makes a much bigger dent in covering the uninsured population. On average over the 10-year period, the Obama plan covers over 47% of the forecasted uninsured population, while the McCain plan covers less than 5%" (Bivens and Gould). The McCain plan simply encourages employers to drop their employees and give them a small tax credit and this would initially result is a dramatic drop in the rate of employer carried insurance. "A study conducted by University of Michigan economist Tom Buchmueller and colleagues published in the journal Health Affairs suggests that the McCain tax hike will lead employers to drop coverage for over 20 million Americans" (Cutler, DeLong, and Marciarille). In addition, McCain's plan allows for individuals to purchase health insurance out-of-state, which would effectively remove much of the current state regulation in th e industry. While Obama's plan will cover almost 10 times as many of the existing uninsured as the McCain plan, the costs of both plans are not dramatically different over the long-term. Meckler reports on a report released by the Tax Policy Center and states, "Sen. Obama's plan would be costly, the center concluded: $1.6 trillion over 10 years. Sen. McCain's would cost nearly as much: $1.3 trillion over the same span. The center doesn't give either campaign credit for initiatives to

Furman v. georgia Essay Example for Free

Furman v. georgia Essay The death penalty or capital punishment has been part of our humanity for years and years. Existed since ancient times, according to people a person who has committed an atrocious act, was sentence to death penalty or capital punishment. The death penalty begins back in the 18th century B.C. in the code of king Hammaurabi of Baylon; who was accused of committing 25 crimes. In years past, the punishments where more crucial then today, the execution procedures had no boundaries, forms of killing where endless. Drowning, whacking, â€Å"damnatio ad Bestia† which was death cause by a wild animal, dismemberment: dividing the body into quarter-usually with an ax, throwing then off a high place, impalement: one of the most crucial consisting in beating them with a stick, buried alive, the guillotine: decapitation, wretch they refer as the â€Å"quick, clean and humane† way of doing the killing, death by torture, stoning crucifying was also consider a death penalty act. Jesus Christ was crucified in Jerusalem part of his punishment for being the son of God. Within times pass the process change a little to decapitation, execution, hanging, electrocution, execution by gas and the one use to date lethal injection. (1. History of death penalty) One of the cases that reach the Supreme Court and change the laws in the United States about the death penalty was the case of Furman v. Georgia in 1971. William Henry Furman claimed that his sentencing violated his rights guaranteed by the 14th amendment. (The 14th Amendment was passed after the American Civil War, and was designed to prevent states from denying due process and equal protection under the law to their citizens. And was dividing into sections: the first section of the amendment was to revolutionize federalism, stated that no state could â€Å"deprive any person of life, liberty, or property without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction. The equal protection of the laws, gradually the Supreme Court interpreted the amendment to mean the guarantees of the bill of rights apply to the states as well as the national government.) (2. Our documents) Furman’s v. Georgia: Furman was a 26year old man with very little education. A man that struggle his whole life about making a living, was very depressed and moody all the time there were days when he didn’t have anything to eat, and that’s when he started breaking into homes to be able to survive. He was caught a couple of times but was giving a light or suspended sentence. A psychiatrist had already diagnosed him with emotionally disturbed and mentally impaired. But was still entering homes in order to live. On August 11, 1967 Furman enter a home and was going through some things when he heard a noise and try to escape the home, some said he drop the gun and when it hit the ground it shot and others said he felt and the gun discharge killing Mr. William Joseph Micke Jr. a husband and father of 5 children. The death was truly a tragic, it was an accident that resulted in murder, and his carrying a gun was to protect himself in case or to even scare a person and be able to run without any incidents. Furman despite of his conditions was convicted of murder and sentence to death in a one day trial. Although Furman did not intend to kill the resident he regales committed murder during the commission of a felony, and was an aggravating factor, and the one in particular which made him eligible for the death penalty (3. Murderpedia) When the trial approached he pleaded not guilty by means of insanity, which was the advice of his appointed attorney. The court at that time order another psychiatric test and the physicians who examined agreed that he was mentally deficient and in the report they concluded that Furman experienced mild to moderate psychotic episodes associate with convulsive disorder. After a few weeks in a hospital assigned by the court, the Dr. said he knows what’s right from wrong and that he was competent to stand trial for murder. Although killing was an accident, the state of Georgia at the time authorized that the death penalty be giving weather a murder took place during the commission of a felony. Furman had one thing going against him at all times; he was a black man in the 60s and 70s and most blacks guilty of committing murder in that state was a reason enough to sentence to death penalty. In 1972 the case reach the Supreme Court which they rule 5-4 that the death penalty as then administered violated the 8th amendment proscription against cruel and unusual punishment and the 14th amendment equal protection clause. The courts typically issue the decision with a majority opinion written and sign by one of the justices. On occasion the court will issue a per curiam decision which takes the form of a brief, unassigned opinion. All 9 judges had different opinions, although 5 justices voted to reverse the death sentences, there concurring opinions revealed that it was shaky coalition. Each majority justice, Mr. Douglas, Mr. Stewart, Mr. White, Mr. Marshall, and Mr. Brennan, wrote a separate concurring opinion supporting the majority decision. Each believed that Furman had indeed been deprived of his constitutional rights. The justices could not agree on an argument striking down the death penalty across the board, however. This unusual procedure reflected not only the intense differences of opinion within the majority, but also the difficulty of deciding the constitutionality—or presumed lack thereof—of the death sentence. The four dissenters, Chief Justice Burger and Justices Blackmun, Powell, and Rehnquist, also wrote extensive opinions expressing their views against the majority opinion. Several argued taking the position of judicial restraint that the death penalty was a matter for the people to decide, through their legislatures. Others argued that emotional appeals were not appropriate in Supreme Court opinions. Finally, the dissenters were disturbed by the erosion of federalism and the unnecessarily invasive judicial activism practiced by the justices of the Warren Court. They said that it was disproportionally applied to the â€Å"poor and despised† that it was applied in an arbitrary and capricious fashion.† Justice Douglas was the man that came up with the idea to review the historic of the death sentence penalty for both America and England. This justice noticed that the laws was extremely unfair because it was applied only to the minorities, the outcast and the smaller population in the country. He decide that the death penalty was unusual and against Gods Plan. Furman centered on the convictions and death sentences of 3 African American men. His case ended changing the way they see each individual case. (4. Law Cornell My opinion on this case is that everyone should be treaty equally, his intent was to commit a crime of robbery not a murder. Unfortunaly we are all aware that the criminal justice system in the United States is imperfect and that we are aware of the flaws that exist within our system. I would of punished him with many years in prison but not the death penalty due to it wasn’t his intentions. Furman did not outlaw the death penalty. It just required states to prevent random, racial, unfair results by giving juries management to apply the death penalty fairly. After Furman, most states modified their death penalty laws. The new laws created a two-phase system for death penalty cases. In the first phase, the jury decides if the defendant is guilty of murder. In the second phase, the jury hears new evidence to decide if the defendant deserves the death penalty. The new laws gave juries guidance for making this decision. (1,2,3,4) Following the case of Furman v. Georgia in 1972, the Supreme Court ruled that the death penalty systems were unconstitutional violations of the Eighth Amendment’s prevention on â€Å"cruel and unusual† punishments. After this case many states changed their death penalty laws. Four years later in Gregg v. Georgia (1976), the Court reaffirmed the death penalty as constitutional. Troy Gregg had been found guilty of murder and armed robbery and sentenced to death. He asked the Court to go further than it had in the Furman case, and rule the death penalty itself unconstitutional. The Court refused to do so. The Court found that Georgia’s system for applying the death penalty was â€Å"judicious† and â€Å"careful.† Gregg had gone through two trials – one to determine guilt and one for sentencing. Further, specific jury findings of â€Å"aggravating circumstances† were necessary to impose the death penalty. There was therefore no Eighth Amendment violation, and the death penalty was constitutional. (5. Georgia encyclopedia/ 6. Lectlaw) Gregg v. Georgia took place on March, 1976. The case dealt with administrative law; this legal field controls the â€Å"due process† clause of the United States Constitution. The due process clause is defined as the government’s obligation to respect and uphold the legal rights of American people during and after they are arrested. Both the Federal and state governments are required to protect and preserve a person’s human rights and liberties. All governments of the United States are required to treat citizens in a fair and respectful manner during the arrest process. When he appealed his sentence as cruel and unusual and a violation of the Eighth Amendment, the US Supreme Court in a 7-2 decision upheld the sentence. The court ruled that the death penalty was an appropriate punishment in extreme criminal cases and that Georgia had settled appropriate values and other precautions to guide a jurys considerations in capital cases. He was sentence to death penalty do to the fact that he entered the house armed so he meant danger to the community and that his purpose was to commit the crime. The United States Supreme Court stated that the execution of Troy Leon Gregg was Constitutional due to the fact that Mr. Gregg was tried, head and sentenced through a formal judicial system. The night before he was supposed to be killed, Gregg escaped from prison and was killed in North Carolina following a fight. (7 law cornell) In this case the court upheld the constitutionality of the death penalty, defending statutes that guide judges and juries in the decision to issue the death sentence. The Court did, however, state that the madatory use of the death penalty would be prohibited under the Eighth Amendment as cruel and unusual punishment. The defendent in this case, Gregg, had been convicted on two counts of armed robbery and two counts of murder. The jury was instructed by the trial judge, who was following Georgia state law, to return with either a decision of life imprisonment or the death penalty. Justice Byron stated in his opinion that Gregg had failed in his burden of showing that the Georgia Supreme Court had not done all it could to prevent discriminatory practices in the forming of his sentence. This decision became the first time the Court stated that punishment of death does not invariably violate the Constitution. (8. Death penalty)

Prospero’s Abuse of Power in Shakespeares The Tempest Essay examples -

Prospero’s Abuse of Power in The Tempest      Ã‚  Ã‚   In William Shakespeare's The Tempest, Prospero lives with his daughter Miranda on a deserted island.   On the surface, he appears to be a benevolent leader doing his best to protect and care for the inhabitants of the island, especially for Miranda.   On closer inspection, however, Prospero plays God, controlling and creating each individual to fit the mold he desires.   He takes advantage of his authority over the people and situations he encounters while wearing a facade of integrity and compassion to disguise his wily intentions and to retain love and respect.   In Act I of the play, Prospero finally tells Miranda the woeful story of how she and he arrived on the island.   From the beginning, Prospero plays his subjects and his sympathetic audience as pawns in his game of manipulation.   He explains that twelve years ago he was the Duke of Milan, but being enthralled with his studies, he left most of the governmental responsibilities to his brother Antonio.   Antonio, hungry to be "Absolute Milan" himself (1:2, p.6), proceeded to betray him with the help of King Alonso of Naples.   When Miranda asks why they were not killed, Prospero sighs, "Dear, they durst not,/ so dear the love my people bore me" (1:2, p.7).   From the beginning, Prospero portrays himself as a distinguished scholar and beloved leader unjustly victimized by his power-hungry brother.   Who would suspect such a humble man of being psychologically manipulative?   Prospero succeeds in deceiving many with this credible guise. Prospero's control of Miranda is evident throughout The Tempest, even from their first conversation.   He says, "Canst thou remember/ A time before we came unto this cell?/   I do not think th... ...hey have chosen each other, when in fact Prospero orchestrated their falling in love from the outset.   By using reverse psychology to make the couple think he does not approve of Ferdinand, Prospero catalyzes a rebellion against himself with the purpose of bringing the couple together.   In the end, Prospero reveals himself to King Alonso and his men.   He frees Ariel, pardons Caliban, and plans to return to Milan where Miranda and Ferdinand will be married.   Prospero gets everything he wants--his dukedom, a powerful son-in-law, and a return to society. Works Cited and Consulted Corfield, Cosmo. "Why Does Prospero Abjure His 'Rough Magic,'" Shakespeare Quarterly. 36 (1985): 31-4 8. Mowat, Barbara A. "Prospero, Agrippa, and Hocus Pocus," English Literary Renaissance. 11 (1981): 281-3 03. Shakespeare, William.   The Tempest.   Mineloa, NY: Drover, 1999. Prospero’s Abuse of Power in Shakespeare's The Tempest Essay examples - Prospero’s Abuse of Power in The Tempest      Ã‚  Ã‚   In William Shakespeare's The Tempest, Prospero lives with his daughter Miranda on a deserted island.   On the surface, he appears to be a benevolent leader doing his best to protect and care for the inhabitants of the island, especially for Miranda.   On closer inspection, however, Prospero plays God, controlling and creating each individual to fit the mold he desires.   He takes advantage of his authority over the people and situations he encounters while wearing a facade of integrity and compassion to disguise his wily intentions and to retain love and respect.   In Act I of the play, Prospero finally tells Miranda the woeful story of how she and he arrived on the island.   From the beginning, Prospero plays his subjects and his sympathetic audience as pawns in his game of manipulation.   He explains that twelve years ago he was the Duke of Milan, but being enthralled with his studies, he left most of the governmental responsibilities to his brother Antonio.   Antonio, hungry to be "Absolute Milan" himself (1:2, p.6), proceeded to betray him with the help of King Alonso of Naples.   When Miranda asks why they were not killed, Prospero sighs, "Dear, they durst not,/ so dear the love my people bore me" (1:2, p.7).   From the beginning, Prospero portrays himself as a distinguished scholar and beloved leader unjustly victimized by his power-hungry brother.   Who would suspect such a humble man of being psychologically manipulative?   Prospero succeeds in deceiving many with this credible guise. Prospero's control of Miranda is evident throughout The Tempest, even from their first conversation.   He says, "Canst thou remember/ A time before we came unto this cell?/   I do not think th... ...hey have chosen each other, when in fact Prospero orchestrated their falling in love from the outset.   By using reverse psychology to make the couple think he does not approve of Ferdinand, Prospero catalyzes a rebellion against himself with the purpose of bringing the couple together.   In the end, Prospero reveals himself to King Alonso and his men.   He frees Ariel, pardons Caliban, and plans to return to Milan where Miranda and Ferdinand will be married.   Prospero gets everything he wants--his dukedom, a powerful son-in-law, and a return to society. Works Cited and Consulted Corfield, Cosmo. "Why Does Prospero Abjure His 'Rough Magic,'" Shakespeare Quarterly. 36 (1985): 31-4 8. Mowat, Barbara A. "Prospero, Agrippa, and Hocus Pocus," English Literary Renaissance. 11 (1981): 281-3 03. Shakespeare, William.   The Tempest.   Mineloa, NY: Drover, 1999.

Molieres Tartuffe - The Character of Tartuffe :: Tartuffe Essays

The Character of Tartuffe      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Moliere's neoclassic comedy, Tartuffe, is a prime example of his expertise in the comedic technique. The plot is one that keeps the reader or viewer interested and aware. It begins with Madame Pernell visiting her son's house and reprimanding all of them but their boarder, Tartuffe. She believes Tartuffe is a man of astounding character. The members of the house, however, disagree and say that Tartuffe is deceitful and a fraud. After Madam Pernell leaves, Dorine and Cleante, the maid and the brother-in-law of the main character, Orgon, discuss Tartuffe and both agree that he has captivated Orgon. Damis, Orgon's son, wonders whether his father will allow Mariane, Orgon's daughter, to marry Valere, who she is in love with, because Damis is in love with Valere's sister.    Orgon comes and tells Mariane that he wants her to marry Tartuffe instead of Valere because he wants to ally Tartuffe to his house. She is so shocked that she does not say anything. Cleante tries to tell Orgon about Tartuffe's misleading personality, but Orgon does not want to hear it. Valere finds out about this proposed marriage, and Dorine promises to help Mariane and Cleante expose Tartuffe for the hypocrite he is. Meanwhile, Damis has a plan to hide in a closet to try to expose Tartuffe's hypocrisy. He hears Tartuffe profess love to Elmire, Orgon's wife, and suggests that they become lovers. Damis comes from the closet and threatens to tell Orgon what he has said. Damis then tells Orgon, and Orgon is so blind to the truth, that he believes his own son is evil and disinherits him. Later, when Orgon and Tartuffe are alone, Orgon tells Tartuffe of his plans to make him his sole inheritor and his son-in-law. After this, Cleante tries to talk to Orgon about Tartuffe and he confronts Tartuffe in front of Orgon. Tartuffe just dodges the questions, though, and leaves as soon as possible. Elmire then convinces Orgon to hide and find out for himself about Tartuffe, so he does so. Tartuffe comes to see Elmire and once again professes his love. Orgon hears it all, comes from the closet, and bans Tartuffe from his house. Orgon, however, has already signed over his house to Tartuffe and Tartuffe threatens him with this. Orgon is afraid because he has given Tartuffe some secret papers that could ruin his position in the court.

Human nature as reflected in Macbeth Essay

Human nature has sparked much debate throughout history. Some people think that human nature at birth is absolutely good and that all evil comes from postnatal education or the negative effects of parental or guardian interaction. This idea is evident in a Chinese saying which translates as â€Å"Men at their birth are naturally good.† Conversely some people argue that human nature is initially evil, and provide an example by citing the observation that when a person is very young, he or she always and only asks for food and is indifferent to the feelings of others. Such a view interprets this phenomenon to indicate that human nature is originally selfish. It seems clear that Shakespeare may have favored the second perspective because in Macbeth it clearly shows that human nature is selfish, and even though postnatal education can change a human’s mind, it can only reduce or hide his or her selfish nature to some extent, and in addition, the selfish nature will most likely be present when it is activated or spurred by certain circumstances. My idea about human nature is reflected in Shakespeare’s character, Macbeth, who initially is a loyal general to his king, Duncan, and valiantly protects his king and country also showing nobility and little indication of his darker side. In Act 1 Scene 2, it is clear that Macbeth was a brave soldier who ignored the danger he was in, â€Å"[f]or brave Macbeth disdaining Fortune, with his brandished steel, which smoked with bloody execution, like valour’s minion, carved out his passage till he faced† the rebel leader. Macbeth’s heroic deed demonstrates that he was loyal to his country and the king who calls him a â€Å"peerless kinsman† and appears to trust Macbeth. However, after meeting three witches, Macbeth thinks of murdering Duncan although he wonders to himself why he has murderous thoughts. Despite his earlier surprise about his thoughts when he is told by the witches that he will become king Macbeth, prompted by his wife’s encouragement and also her disdain at what she calls his cowardice, his â€Å"brain sickliness† when he further hesitates decide to murder Duncan. On second thoughts he again hesitates and almost convinces himself that he should not murder the king with various reasons: one of them was that Macbeth was Duncan’s kinsman and also his subject, so Macbeth should always try to protect the king as he states: â€Å"First, as I am his kinsman and his subject, Strong both against the deed†.(Act 1 Sc, 7) Before Macbeth’s desire of pursuing kingship became uncontrollable, Macbeth was still trying to restrain himself from committing the deed and decides to remain loyal stating that his only reason to kill Duncan was to fulfill his ambition. Shakespeare does not tell audiences where Macbeth’s loyalty originated. However, in Act 1 Scene 6, Macbeth constantly expresses his gratitude to Duncan which indicates his appreciation for the new title of Thane of Cawdor which the king gave him, and the honour he attained when Duncan came to his castle. It is evident that even though these expressions were Macbeth’s mask to hide his real plan, Macbeth still hesitated before he did the murder. It represents that he was somewhat reluctant to kill the king and his loyalty was from a profound sense of responsibility. However, the presence of three witches and their predictions spurred his selfish nature along with the criticism of his wife three witches said that Macbeth would be Thane of Glamis, Thane of Cawdor, and king step by step. In Act 1 Scene 3, right after the first two predictions really came true, Macbeth stated to himself, â€Å"If good, why do I yield to that suggestion whose horrid image doth unfix my hair and make my seated heart knock at my ribs, against the use of nature?† This quotation illustrates that the murder plan of Duncan had already settled in Macbeth’s brain. He did not do the murder immediately because he still needed a further spur to make him put his plans into actions. When Lady Macbeth persuaded Macbeth to kill the king, Macbeth could not resist the desire to pursue the kingship and the great power he would like to get; as a result. Macbeth killed the king and obtained the kingship. For convincing Macbeth, Lady Macbeth mainly used pathos to spark Macbeth’s self-esteem, his confidence and his anger. First of all, she stated that if Macbeth did not dare to do the murder, he was an animal but not a man. She also said that when Macbeth dared to do it, he was a man; if he went one step further by doing what he dared to do before, he would be much more than a man; â€Å"What beast was ’t, then, that made you break this enterprise to me? When you durst do it, then you were a man; and to be more than what you were, you would be so much more the man.† These words really made Macbeth feel shame, and anger, and also the desire to show himself that he was a real man was prompted by his self-seeking, egotistical selfish nature. Without human logic, people, including Macbeth, find it much easier to do some irrational things such as murder. Secondly, Macbeth did have the desire to be king, but he still worried about his future life after the murder even when his desires were fulfilled. Lady Macbeth told her husband that the murder would not be a failure if he dared to do it commenting â€Å"We fail? But screw your courage to the sticking-place, and we’ll not fail.† This was a guarantee of success for Macbeth; it actually reduced Macbeth’s concern about his future life after the murder. Lady Macbeth’s persuasive words are considered the circumstance that activated the selfish and evil part in Macbeth’s mind. At this moment, Macbeth really changed his mind and the evil part in his brain arose indeed. In the â€Å"dagger soliloquy†, Macbeth saw a dagger, which was leading him towards Duncan’s bedroom in front of him. He said â€Å"Come, let me clutch thee. I have thee not, and yet I see thee still†; this part does tell the audience that Macbeth was not one hundred percent ready to kill but his mind had already encompassed the deed. At the end of this scene, Macbeth finally â€Å"screwed his courage to the sticking point† and decided to do the murder as he stated to himself â€Å"I go, and it is done. The bell invites me. Hear it not Duncan, for it is a knell that summons thee to heaven or the hell.† In Macbeth’s’ mind, to contest the kingship was more important than anything else at this moment. His selfish nature was adequately exposed by his murder plan for Duncan; however, it was only the first step because to sustain his rule, he was going to kill other people even though they were his friends since he was so strongly self-seeking became evil enough to murder anyone who stood in his was.. After Macbeth acknowledged that his own children would not be the king, but instead, Banquo’s descendants would become kings, this issue became the most critical one in his brain. Thus, instead of being merciful to his old friend, Macbeth commanded three murderers to kill Banquo and Banquo’s son, Fleance, as they returned to the castle. As a result, three murderers killed Banquo, but Fleance escaped. This foul and tragic deed seemed very useful   for Macbeth to sustain his rule over Scotland. In the meantime, Macbeth’s selfish nature was clearly evident and he believed the witches prophecy that no one could kill him who â€Å"was of woman born† which made him confident he could stay in control. His selfish, self–seeking nature was at a peak, and he even seemed indifferent to his wife’s death. However, things will develop to the opposite side when it becomes extreme. In Act 3 Scene 4, Macbeth started to see hallucinations of Banquo during the feast, which refers that Macbeth was threatened by his own deed that made him feel guilty and upset. Later on, at the end of this play, Lady Macbeth also became crazy because the people saw that she sleepwalked with a candle and viewed all the bad deeds she had done. Thus, it is clear that when a person has extreme and uncontrollable selfishness, it also brings more or less disasters to himself. In conclusion, Macbeth’s changing process sufficiently proves that human nature is selfish and sometimes evil; it can only hide in human’s mind but can never be wholly eliminated. In addition, in some circumstances, this kind of selfish nature can be recalled and create some terrible results. Evolutionary theory indicates that we have originated from primitive organisms that also produced dinosaurs and crocodiles. As the offspring of such bloody forebears, we have their genes and our bloody nature is even beyond theirs. Macbeth’s greedy and selfish nature was activated by his wife and the witches; then he created catastrophe to others and also to himself. As wise animals, we should restrict our selfish nature and control ourselves; otherwise, we will continue to create tragedies of death and destruction to satisfy ourselves.

Supply and Demand and Price Elasticity Essays

Supply and Demand and Price Elasticity Essays Supply and Demand and Price Elasticity Essay Supply and Demand and Price Elasticity Essay Supply and Demand and Price Elasticity Team D John Gayden, Linda Petteway ECO 212 Principles of Economics November 22, 2010 Keith Watts There are many things adversities that cause the rise and fall of supply and demand. For example, if Crab prices rises, a Red Lobster sales price will increase also on crabs this will cause the demand of crabs to decrease this is price of input. When crab production become abundant again causing more crabs to over flow Red Lobster the market price on crabs will decreases this creates a good technological change. When Red Lobster menu changes by adding a variety of plates that do not include crabs when the crab prices are high they focuses on selling the other entrees available this is known as prices of substitutes in production. Another way change affects supply and demand is by the number of firms or business selling same or similar products in the market. These new business bring more competition and prices may vary depending on the supply in demand. When a business anticipates that the prices of the goods or service will increase from what the price is today that allows the business or firm to increase the current price this also causes change to affect supply and demand (Hubbard OBrien, 2010). The price of gas is another Market this is very unstable and has no balance of supply and demand. The changes in prices and quantity affect the equilibrium in positive and negative ways. There can be talks of a hurricane in Cuba and it will cause the price of gas to go up 50 cents. Holidays or warm weather cause the price of gas to sky rocket. There seem to be no one with a hand on who control these prices. The main form of reading material used to be physical books. The development of the Apple iPad has vastly increasd the ease and amount of free reading material available to consumers. The iPad price ranges between $499 up to $900 (Glenn, 2010). The iPad is touch screen mobile laptop with no keyboard and high screen resolution. The iPad offer consumers the ability to have an e-reader with color screen and much more. The typical reaction of this vent should have caused the prices of reading material to drop. The decrease in quantity demanded of books should have caused the price of them to drop. The loss of consumers was a negative cost for suppliers. The market reacted to the loss of demand by shifting the form of books. The suppliers shifted the equilibrium back to a more self-beneficial market in several ways. We will base this on one consumer’s pers onal observations. The first way suppliers used was to print hard back book at higher prices and not print the cheaper paperback form until at least nine months later. They also made the price of new online reading material the same prices as a new book. The suppliers also decreased the quantity supplied of hard back books causing an increase in demand. Market equilibrium is a constant balance of what consumers want and what suppliers deliver. References Hubbard, R. , OBrien, A. (2010). Economics (3rd ed. ). Boston , MA: Perason Hall. Glenn Chapman, 2010. Kindle and Nook cut prices in battle with iPad, Retrieved November 14, 2010 from http://newsinfo. inquirer. net/breakingnews/infotech/view/20100622-276934/Kindle- and-Nook-cut-prices-in-battle-with-iPad

Free Essays on Mauthausen

Immediately after Austria's "anschluss" to the German Reich in March 1938, Heinrich Himmler (Reichsfà ¼hrer-SS and chief of the German Police) and Oswald Pohl (chief of the SS-Administration Office, later SS-Main Administration Office for Economic Affairs) set off for Mauthausen and Gusen in order to inspect the quarries there. On April 29, 1938, the "Deutsche Erd- und Steinwerke GmbH" (DEST) was founded in Berlin, and Oswald Pohl was assigned the task of organizing, financing and managing the company. End of May 1938, Oswald Pohl inspected the site for a second time with a view to setting up the concentration camp there. On June 30, 1938, first negotiations for the supply of building material for a period of ten years were started between Albert Speer, the "Fà ¼hrer's Architect" and "General Buildings Inspector for the Remodeling of the Capital of the German Reich, Berlin", and DEST-company (Deutsche Erd- und Steinwerke GmbH). Albert Speer granted an interest-free loan of RM 9.5 million to DEST. Subsequently, DEST leased Quarries named "Wiener Graben", "Marbacher Bruch", and "Bettelberg" owned by the City of Vienna. It later purchased the first two quarries leased. On the hill overlooking the "Wiener Graben", construction began on the main camp, requiring tons of granite for its stone buildings and walls. The first prisoners, 300 Austrians and Germans came to Mauthausen on August 8, 1938 from the Dachau concentration camp, accompanied by 80 members of the SS "Death's-Head Detachment". Additional prisoners from Dachau arrived on October 5 and 18, 1938. Arrival at the camp was a shock for every prisoner: Disinfection, registration, and clothing issuance were accompanied by beatings and intimidations by the SS. On August 18, 1938, the first prisoner committed suicide. On November 15, 1938, the first prisoner was shot dead "while trying to escape".... Free Essays on Mauthausen Free Essays on Mauthausen Immediately after Austria's "anschluss" to the German Reich in March 1938, Heinrich Himmler (Reichsfà ¼hrer-SS and chief of the German Police) and Oswald Pohl (chief of the SS-Administration Office, later SS-Main Administration Office for Economic Affairs) set off for Mauthausen and Gusen in order to inspect the quarries there. On April 29, 1938, the "Deutsche Erd- und Steinwerke GmbH" (DEST) was founded in Berlin, and Oswald Pohl was assigned the task of organizing, financing and managing the company. End of May 1938, Oswald Pohl inspected the site for a second time with a view to setting up the concentration camp there. On June 30, 1938, first negotiations for the supply of building material for a period of ten years were started between Albert Speer, the "Fà ¼hrer's Architect" and "General Buildings Inspector for the Remodeling of the Capital of the German Reich, Berlin", and DEST-company (Deutsche Erd- und Steinwerke GmbH). Albert Speer granted an interest-free loan of RM 9.5 million to DEST. Subsequently, DEST leased Quarries named "Wiener Graben", "Marbacher Bruch", and "Bettelberg" owned by the City of Vienna. It later purchased the first two quarries leased. On the hill overlooking the "Wiener Graben", construction began on the main camp, requiring tons of granite for its stone buildings and walls. The first prisoners, 300 Austrians and Germans came to Mauthausen on August 8, 1938 from the Dachau concentration camp, accompanied by 80 members of the SS "Death's-Head Detachment". Additional prisoners from Dachau arrived on October 5 and 18, 1938. Arrival at the camp was a shock for every prisoner: Disinfection, registration, and clothing issuance were accompanied by beatings and intimidations by the SS. On August 18, 1938, the first prisoner committed suicide. On November 15, 1938, the first prisoner was shot dead "while trying to escape"....

Rebut vs. Refute vs. Deny

Rebut vs. Refute vs. Deny Rebut vs. Refute vs. Deny Rebut vs. Refute vs. Deny By Sharon Theres often confusion between rebut and refute and both words may be misused when deny is most appropriate. Its true that they all have to do with negation, but thats where the similarity ends. To deny a statement is simply that. If I say all dogs are grey, then if you deny or contradict that statement all you have to do is say: No, theyre not. However, if you wanted to rebut my statement, you would have to provide a well thought out and reasoned argument that suggests that I might be wrong. This is used in debates, where speakers present evidence that supports a counter argument. In order to refute my statement about dogs, you would have to prove it wrong, perhaps by showing me a dog of a different color. Here are some quotations from publications around the web: Friday, Mr. Emanuel declined to speculate on whether the Trump administration would find another rationale to deny the city the grant - something that has never happened. Nor would he say if he thought that the administration (www.nytimes.com) in which I addressed questions from Congressmen about my testimony before the global warming committee, I had already refuted in detail the points now belatedly raised again by the scientists who have written to Congress. (www.theguardian.com) opportunity to present a counterpoint to Mr. Wolff. And she has broadly discussed with friends the idea of a book to rebut â€Å"Fire and Fury.† (www.nytimes.com) Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:12 Greek Words You Should KnowUse a Dash for Number RangesEnglish Grammar 101: Sentences, Clauses and Phrases

Organizational Technology Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Organizational Technology Plan - Essay Example Other important applications include informing the details of the company to the sales personnel, suppliers and others so that they become aware of company's goals and achievements. Feasibility study is an important phase in the software development process. It enables the developer to have an assessment of the product being developed. It refers to the feasibility study of the product in terms of outcomes of the product, operational use and technical support required for implementing it. Economic Feasibility: It refers to the benefits or outcomes. We are deriving from the product as compared to the total cost we are spending for developing the product. If the benefits are more or less the same as the older system, then it is not feasible to develop the product. Operational Feasibility: It refers to the feasibility of the product to be operational. Some products may work very well at design and implementation but may fall in the real time environment. It includes the study of additional human resources required and their technical expertise. Technical Feasibility: It refers to whether the product that is available in the market fully supports the present application. It studies the pros and cons of using particular product for the development and it's feasibility.

Take Away Their Guns by James Q. Wilson Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Take Away Their Guns by James Q. Wilson - Essay Example Wilson has managed to leave an empty spot by having an indirect message instead of a direct one. This encourages readers to read the entire essay in order to find out what the author is passing across. Wilson asserts that every patrol officer should be given lists of people on parole or probation so that they make frequent checks ascertain that they are not carrying a weapon. I concur one hundred percent with the author on that issue. I have a strong conviction that providing the list to police officers is a good step towards providing safety to people in the society. Additionally, it may reduce the crime rate. Wilson has also suggested that the government and scientists should work hand in hand in order to come up with powerful metal detectors that may assist police officers in detecting guns, even those hidden in pockets of criminals. The underemployed electronics engineers and nuclear physicists of the post-cold war era have the capacities of designing better gun detectors (Wilson). However, the author failed to address another issue that could be used to minimize crimes in the society. The author forgot to mention throughout the entire essay that the mental capacity of gun owners should be tested. Some people in the society is not mentally fit to own a gun. These individuals tend to pose threats to themselves and those living around them (Wilson). Therefore, the government needs to put in place a system that will test the owners’ psychological mind set. Individuals who fail the test should not be allowed to own fire arms for the rest of their lives. This is because some people have racist and criminal tendencies that may lead them to commit crime with their personal weapon. Some people may fail the tests due to depressions or other mental illness. These may lead them to suicidal tendencies and compel them to commit crimes. Consequently, after committing these crimes these individuals may run

The new age Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The new age - Essay Example Like a number of ancient religions of the world, Scientology holds the view that people are placed on earth to establish their own salvation and they can only comprehend the relationship with God by realizing this. The appeal of scientology is in a person’s capacity to solve his own issues (Frost & Frost, 2012). When a person is able to solve his own problem, he is also capable of helping other individuals. It also allows a person to think for himself. Question 2 Both science and religion hold assertions to reality. Religion is made up of faith and belief. Religion claims events are factual because they want them to be, and they decline to alter their notions just because there are a number of infuriating information in the way. In contrast, science incorporates theory and evidence. Science asserts that things are factual because they concur with the proof and theory also gives it support. Additionally, if there is new evidence, the theory is modified, even if it requires givi ng up prior valued suggestions. In addition, every scientific theory is in principle refutable, and in the end every theory will be negated. In contrast, religion can in principle not be refuted. This does not play a part to its evidence. Moreover, religion cannot be proven (Frost & Frost, 2012). ... Moreover, globalization illustrates the connection between cultures of macro-social components. These components entail politics, economics, and religion. Also, globalization may universalize and wear down the features of a local grouping (Lewis, 2007). Significant factors in globalization include the advancement of the internet, telecommunications and transportation infrastructure. These factors generate additional interdependence of cultural and economic activities. Also, Atheism plays a part in globalization. Atheism refers to the refusal of belief in the being of divinity. It also implies that there is not a deity that exists. Atheists are less authoritarian, nationalistic, close-minded, prejudiced, ethnocentric, anti-Semitic, dogmatic, and racist (Frost & Frost, 2012). Therefore, they can sell their merchandise, goods, or services to all people and markets all over the world. Atheists are also pro-immigration and presume that any migration is beneficial migration because it is e ffortless to incorporate these individuals in the global culture. Question 4 Secularism refers to the rule of disconnection of government units, and the individuals authorized to represent the nation, from religious dignitaries and religious institutions. Secularism may highlight the claim to liberty from religious teachings and rule, and the liberty to freedom from governmental obligation of religion to the individuals in a state that is nonaligned on issues of belief. Secularism may also illustrate the notion that human beings decisions and activities, mostly political, must not be biased by religious authority. It is better that states embrace secularism than religion (Frost & Frost, 2012). This is because secular state will incorporate the views of the entire

How the company combine to satisfy shareholders and the demands of Dissertation - 2

How the company combine to satisfy shareholders and the demands of society with less impact on the profitability - Dissertation Example Globalization, rapid developments in computer and information technology and the current experience of global economic crunch are some of the essential elements affecting growth and survival of modern organizations (Balakrishnan, 2003; Fischer, 2003; Soros, 2002; Bagwathi, 2010). Although there is no universal agreement regarding the effect of these developments and concerns relevant to the quality of life of people(Bagwathi, 2007; 2010; Stiglitz, 2007, 2010; Suarez-Orosco & Qin-Hilliard, 200; Yusoff, Ramayah & Ibrahim, 2010). Still, what remains, is the fact, that the socio-economic and political condition with which economic institutions are doing their activities are affected by these integral elements, in the same manner, that it has permeated and influenced the lives of people across the globe (Yusoff et al., 2010). In this regard, modern corporations respond to the challenges and demands of the time by incorporating a fundamental change in the nature of the organization  œ corporate social responsibility (Zolsnai, 2006). The idea of corporate social responsibility is not something new (Hemingway, 2002). During the 1930’s organizations have already recognized that their responsibility is not limited only to the satisfaction of the shareholders’ interests, but it also includes the fulfillment of the demands of the society where the organization is embedded (Hemingway, 2002). This seminal notion of corporate social responsibility is integrated in the current scheme and understanding of CSR, but it is only in the last three decades that an observable influx of discussion and interests regarding CSR has taken full swing (Dahlsrud, 2008). However, in the last four years, the world experienced the first global economic crisis of the 21st century (Reinhart, 2008; Yandle, 2010). Case against the CSR has been raised based on the assumption that the concept fails in responding to the challenges that it is supposed to be addressing (Karnani, 2010; Lin-Hi, 2010; Ludesher & Mashud, 2010; Portney, 2008). In this sense, there is a call to re-evaluate CSR and come up with better approach towards an authentic CSR and not just a facade (Lin-Hi, 2010). Background of the Study The important role of CSR in the survival of companies in the contemporary period is an accepted truism. In fact, the notion of CSR is deemed intuitive in the sense that as companies are considered as social actors, it becomes essential that corporations too, should be responsible for their actions. However, the intuitiveness of the good derived out from doing good, is questioned on the premise whether there is really a connection between doing good and earning well in the context of an organization. This question is important because as many

International Human Resource Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

International Human Resource Management - Essay Example It has about 337 stores in 41 territories including in the UK and overseas and employs over 78,000 people worldwide (M&S, 2012). The company which was established as a partnership firm by Michael Marks and Thomas Spencer, in the year 1894, went on to become a public company by 1926 and ventured into international markets during early 1970s. The company first set shop in France during 1975 with the opening of its stores in Paris. However, although the venture proved to be significantly profitable in France, the rest of the company's operations in the rest of Western Europe failed to garner profitable returns. This fuelled the closure of its stores in France in March 2001, amidst wide scale protests against the corporate decision (BBC, 2001a). 2. Introduction The unprecedented success garnered by retail chains across the world in terms of profitability, particularly posts the globalization phenomenon has been very well documented in academic literature and scholarly researches alike. A lthough there is a certain degree of validity and authenticity to the hypothesis, that internalization of retail stores is bound to result in immense popularity and profitability; the recent cases of closures of huge multinational giants, such as the withdrawal of the clothing chain C&A from the UK markets in the year 2000 (BBC, 2000b); the closure of UK based retail giants Tesco and Boots and the France based Carrefour from the Japanese markets, as recent as 2011 (The Guardian, 2011), indicates otherwise. This study on the closure of Marks & Spencer stores in France, aims to highlight the various core issues related to the operations, functioning and performance of international retail stores overseas, and assess the manner in which M&S approached the closure of its stores in the country. 2.1. Organizational context of IHRM The business of retailing entails operating of firms in a global context and at the same time adjusting and adapting to the local needs. Over the years, various global retailers have invested in international ventures with varying degrees of outcomes in terms of profitability and success. As more and more companies join the quest of aggressively pursuing international expansion as a part of their core strategies, it is all the more vital for them to take into consideration various factors which may play a key role in shaping their success in the process (Kraft and Mantrala, 2010). This in turn requires IHRM to be organized and efficient in its functioning. The organizational structure is dependent on the HR strategies developed by the management which is often embedded as the company's corporate strategy and can be based on its international division structure (i.e. production, marketing, finance, personnel etc., see Figure 1 Appendix 1); or the Functional structure (See figure 2 Appendix 2); or the geographic location structure (see Figure 3, Appendix 1) or the product structure (See Figure 4, Appendix 1) (Aswathappa and Dash, 2007). 2.2. Cross border alliances: The new wave of globalization has brought along with a trend of accelerated investment in cross border alliances in varied forms ranging from conventional approaches such as international exports and foreign direct investments (FDI) to relatively more contemporary methods such as cross border acquisitions, mergers, and franchisee agreements (OECD, 2001; Markusen, 2002; Neary, 2004). The choice of entry strategy into foreign markets depends

How the company combine to satisfy shareholders and the demands of Dissertation - 2

How the company combine to satisfy shareholders and the demands of society with less impact on the profitability - Dissertation Example Globalization, rapid developments in computer and information technology and the current experience of global economic crunch are some of the essential elements affecting growth and survival of modern organizations (Balakrishnan, 2003; Fischer, 2003; Soros, 2002; Bagwathi, 2010). Although there is no universal agreement regarding the effect of these developments and concerns relevant to the quality of life of people(Bagwathi, 2007; 2010; Stiglitz, 2007, 2010; Suarez-Orosco & Qin-Hilliard, 200; Yusoff, Ramayah & Ibrahim, 2010). Still, what remains, is the fact, that the socio-economic and political condition with which economic institutions are doing their activities are affected by these integral elements, in the same manner, that it has permeated and influenced the lives of people across the globe (Yusoff et al., 2010). In this regard, modern corporations respond to the challenges and demands of the time by incorporating a fundamental change in the nature of the organization  œ corporate social responsibility (Zolsnai, 2006). The idea of corporate social responsibility is not something new (Hemingway, 2002). During the 1930’s organizations have already recognized that their responsibility is not limited only to the satisfaction of the shareholders’ interests, but it also includes the fulfillment of the demands of the society where the organization is embedded (Hemingway, 2002). This seminal notion of corporate social responsibility is integrated in the current scheme and understanding of CSR, but it is only in the last three decades that an observable influx of discussion and interests regarding CSR has taken full swing (Dahlsrud, 2008). However, in the last four years, the world experienced the first global economic crisis of the 21st century (Reinhart, 2008; Yandle, 2010). Case against the CSR has been raised based on the assumption that the concept fails in responding to the challenges that it is supposed to be addressing (Karnani, 2010; Lin-Hi, 2010; Ludesher & Mashud, 2010; Portney, 2008). In this sense, there is a call to re-evaluate CSR and come up with better approach towards an authentic CSR and not just a facade (Lin-Hi, 2010). Background of the Study The important role of CSR in the survival of companies in the contemporary period is an accepted truism. In fact, the notion of CSR is deemed intuitive in the sense that as companies are considered as social actors, it becomes essential that corporations too, should be responsible for their actions. However, the intuitiveness of the good derived out from doing good, is questioned on the premise whether there is really a connection between doing good and earning well in the context of an organization. This question is important because as many

Elements of Security System Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Elements of Security System - Coursework Example In the case of installing a wireless network, updating security strategy should be done in order consider both benefits and associated security risks. Wireless networks would be of benefit due to the associated flexibility, but the network could be exposed to many security risks including those similar to wired networks. Additional risks thus call for security strategy upgrading. Management support is however important in this case (Kairab, pg.50). The radio transmission of data makes the wireless network open to intruders, who can exploit it, destroy it, steal data, or even deny access to authorized users. The strategy upgrade should include the use of risk management processes for assess possible risks, taking necessary steps to reduce the risks, and maintaining an acceptable level of security risks. The strategy should consider the economic side of the installation and in the management of the projected risks. Security strategy upgrade is also important during major company reorga nization. Major company reorganization occurs with both economic pressure and security risks. Major reorganizations include mergers, joint venture, and downsizing among others. Companies have to reveal some of their critical secretes and information, which could pose danger to a firm’s operations or success.

The urgent need of Reformation of the Philippine Political Party System from Multi- Part to Two- Party Essay Example for Free

The urgent need of Reformation of the Philippine Political Party System from Multi- Part to Two- Party Essay REFERENCES Abueva, J. V. De Guzman, R. P. 1969. Foundations and Dynamics of Filipino Government and Politics. Manila: Bookmark, Inc. Aceron, J. 2009. Reforming the Philippine Political Party system: ideas and initiatives, debates and dynamics. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Almonte, Jose. 2007. To Put Our House in Order: We Must Level the Playing Field. Metro Manila, Philippines: Foundation for Economic Freedom Bernas, Joaquin. 2007. The Philippine Constitution for Ladies, Gentlemen and Others. Manila: Rex Book Store. Butwell, R. 1963. Southeast Asia Today and Tomorrow: A political analysis. Praeger Publisher Janda, K., Berry J. M. Goldman J.1992. The Challenge of Democracy in America.3rd edition. Houghton Mifflin Company Inc. Heywood, Andrew. 2002. Politics (Second Edition). Hampshire and New York: Palgrave Foundation. Hinton, H. C., Ike, N., Palmer, N. D., Callard, K., Wheeler, R. S., Kahin, G.1963. Major government of Asia.2nd edition. Ithaca, New York: Cornell University Press. Kearney, R. N.1975. Politics and Modernization In South and Southeast Asia. Cambridge: Schenkman Publishing Companies, Inc. Lawson, Kay. 1989. The Human Polity: An Introduction to Political Science (Second Edition). Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. Nohlen, D. 1984. Elections and Electoral System. Bonn, Germany: Friedrich Ebert Stiftung. Rocamora, Joel. 1997. The Constitutional Amendment Debate: Reforming Political Institutions, Reshaping Political Culture. In Glenda Gloria (ed.). Shift. Quezon City: Ateneo Center for Social Policy and Public Affairs. Schwartz, R. L., Phoenix, T.2001. Learning Perl. Retrieved from http://ebookbrowse.com/llamas-english-phd-2001-pdf-d426724738 Weissenbach, K. 2010. Political parties and party types- Conceptual approaches to the institutionalization of political parties in transitional states: The case of the Philipines. Makati: Konrad- Adenauer- Stiftung Manila Office. Zaide, G. F.1957. Philippine Political and Cultural History. Vol. 2. Manila: Philippine Education Company. Zaide, G. F. Zaide S. M.1969. Government and Politics of the Republic of the Philippines. ALCA Publishing Co. The urgent need of Reformation of the Philippine Political Party System from Multi- Part to Two- Party* _______________________ *A library research paper submitted to Ms. Victoria Jean R. Ella in partial fulfillment of the requirements in ENG 2 (College Writing in English). Second Semester 2012-13. University of the Philippines Los Baà ±os, College, Laguna. Alexis De Tocqueville, a French political thinker, historian and the author of the book Democracy in America, told that, ‘In politics, shared hatreds are almost always the basis of friendships’ (as cited in Janda, 2002, p. 271). The definition and formation of a party system can be dissected in this quotation of De Tocqueville. The friendship referred in the quotation is a well-established one, unified by the ‘shared hatred’ that would mean the shared ideals and principle of a party. Thus, a political party is an  association of politicians seeking power in the government to exercise their ethics and ideology for the common good of citizens. A party is also like an embodiment of the voters’ needs and wishes to the government. They choose some of its members as representatives to be candidates during elections as to secure position in the government. These representatives now will present the agendas and programs to the voters and the characteristics of efficient socialization and mobilization of a party will be tested. The latter pertains to the addressing of public welfare while socialization and mobilization is the capacity to organize in order to help those in poor status. The electorate then will select the candidate in their hearts by ballot. Hence, a party can develop through the ideas in religion, business, agriculture and other aspects. (Heywood, 2002) Political parties in a network of relationships are called party system. It should be taken note that a party system is not merely a group of political parties. There is a certain standard to be considered before warranting if it is a party system or not. The number and size of the party is the first thing to be considered. It is relevant in the electoral process as it will serve as a reference to the chances of each party to gain power. Aside from this, the number of party is related to the naming of the different types of party systems. The second consideration is the relationship possessed among each party, if it is interconnected with harmony and cooperation or with discord and conflict. Stability and the degree of orderliness must be characterized by a genuine party system. (Heywood, 2002) In c ontemporary times, there are four main types of party system. Chinese Communist Party is an example of one- party system characterized by monopoly of government power. Two- party system is characterized by two parties competing for different positions in the government to secure power. This kind of system is practiced in USA and UK. Dominant party system is not really well- known due to some people confusing it to the one- party system. The difference is that parties are competing for power but there is a dominant party prevailing for a long period of time. The multiparty system is the type wherein there are more than two parties competing for power. (Heywood, 2002) Philippines is one of those countries using the multiparty system. There are many registered parties in the country but is characterized by low esteem and perceived as â€Å"selfish, dishonest, biased and incapable of recruiting quality leaders†Ã‚  (Lawson, 1989). The situation of political parties in the Philippines according to Rocamora â€Å"are not divided on the basis of long-term upper class interests, much less the interests of the lower classes†(Rocamora, 1997). Instead, â€Å"they are temporary and unstable coalitions of upper class fractions pieced together for elections and post-election battles for patronage. They come together only to put down assertions of lower class interests. The rest of the time they maneuver in particularistic horsetrading and the perennial search for deals.† According to Aceron (2009), Philippine parties are still far from reality as they are performing well the functions of candidate selection, leadership formation, interest aggregation and agenda development, for this reason, this library research paper was written to inform the Filipinos and to persuade them to take an urgent measure to address this big problem by reforming our party system from multi- party to a two- party system. The history of the party system in the country is notable due to Americans intervention during colonial rule (Butwell, 1963). Furthermore, it is said to be historically and culturally rich. The existence of party system can be traced during the Spanish regime. It was happened shortly after the â€Å"Cry of Balintawak† in August 26, 1896. The clash between Emilio Aguinaldo, warlord of Cavite and Andres Bonifacio, founder of Katipunan during the first presidential election created two political parties. The Magdiwang under Bonifacio while the Magdalo lead by Aguinaldo. Soon, the hostility between these to parties reached to its limit and caused the death of Andres Bonifacio . During the war of Philippine Independence (1899- 1902), a rivalry was formed between the ‘pacifists’ led by Dr. Pedro A. Paterno and Felipe Buencamino Sr. and the ‘irreconciliables’ led by Apolinario Mabini and Gen. Antonio Luna. The pacifists favored the American government while the irreconciliables still struggled to achieve independence. (Zaide, 1969) Americans established our party system into a well- organized one. In December 1900, the first political party called Federal Party formed with American authorization due to Federal Party favored the United States over the independence (Zaide, 1957). This party was later dissolved due to failure implementation of its earliest platforms. The remnants of the Federal Party joined together to formed the Partido Nacionalista which the  main objective is to obtain independence. Sergio Osmena was the first Nacionalista leader while Manuel Quezon was the second- in- command. The former Federal Party, now called Partido Progresista was utterly defeated before the elections. The Partido Nacionalista and Partido Progresista were the two major competing parties from 19907 until the early 1930’s. Later, the Progresista dissolved in 1931. Soon after, minor parties made an appearance which did not lasted too long. (Abueva, 1969) There was no opposition party during Japanese occupation (1942- 1946). After the World War II, Nacionalistas broke into two groups: the Nacionalista party and the Liberal party. Former president Elpidio Qurino represented the Liberal party in 1949 presidential election and won. Due to the rumor of denominating of Quirino, the Democratic party was formed in 1953. Carlos P. Romulo, a presidential candidate competed against Ramon Magsaysay of Nacionalista which lead to Magsaysay won the election. After Magsaysay’s death, his supporters formed a party called Progressive Party of the Philippines, later renamed Grand Alliance led by Pres. Carlos P. Garcia. The party was successful at first as it won about 20 percent of the vote in 1957 but in 1961, the national leaders of PPP- GA switched to the more organized Liberal party. Those leaders who switched run for national offices and won in the next elections. (Abueva, 1969) In 1961 presidential election between former presidents Diosdado Macapagal and Carlos Garcia served to reform the nature of Filipino politics specially our party system. Garcia was defeated due to Macapagal’s platforms resemblance to Magsaysay wherein they both believed that economic success in the country can be attained without the intervention of the government. The Nacionalista, however, seeked for rapid industrialization. (Abueva, 1969) In modern era, these parties are described as a â€Å"temporary political alliances† and the worst is being merely a â€Å"fans club† (Aceron, 2009). We cannot blame those people for their comment because this is the truth. Our party and party system can be called to such title but they are really far from what they should be to be able to play their significant role for the development of the Philippines. .Philippine parties are far more different of what political parties should be. It is characterized by a personality and money  based kind of politics with â€Å"selfish, dishonest, biased and incapable of recruiting quality leaders (Lawson, 1989). They do not fulfill the function of representing the people’s need and wishes and interest aggregation. Consequently, the public often views efforts aimed at party-strengthening as mere attempts to further entrench traditional politics and elite interests. This is perhaps the greatest challenge in changing the country’s party syste Philippines parties are described as a â€Å"temporary political alliances† and the worst is being merely a â€Å"fans club† (Aceron, 2009). We cannot blame those people for their comment because this is the truth. Our party and party system can be called to such title but they are really far from what they should be as they are seemingly forgot their significant role for the development of the Philippines. Given the way party politics is practiced in the Philippines, it is no surprise that the impact of political parties has not been favorable to democratization. â€Å"Because of its weaknesses, the party system,† according to Almonte, â€Å"has failed to offer meaningful policy choices—and so to provide for orderly change† (Almonte, 2007). If we follow Nohlen who defines the party system as â€Å"referring to number of parties, relative strength, ideological dimen sions and distances of competing parties† (Nohlen, 1984), the Philippine party system can thus be described as multi-party, fluid, non-ideological, non-participatory and not offering programmatic choices. The multi- party system composed of many political parties competing government position. Thus, this system reduced the opportunity to grab position. One of the important strengths of this system is that â€Å"they create internal checks and balances within government and exhibit a bias in favor of debate, conciliation and compromise† (Heywood, 2002). Coalition formation is the process of maintenance to make sure that the parties’ principles and ideas must be taken account. Unfortunately, this strength can be turned into a flaw if this coalition formation failed. Another problem is the lack of clear ideological alternatives due to a dominated political center. The Philippines as of now is still using the multi- party system. Since political parties were established, our country used the two- party system (Zaide, 1969). The truth is that the Philippines is the only country in which a two- party system has developed since Independence.(Butwell, 1963) It was shown in the history of our country’s party such as in the case of Ramon Magsaysay , a member of Liberal party but he was chosen as a presidential candidate for Nacionalista party. This same goes as well with the late Ferdinand Marcos who also was with the Liberal party but was chosen to be a candidate for the Nacionalistas. Therefore, our party system is characterized by an inter- party switching and this became a common thing among politicians until today.(Kearney, 1975) The two – party system is composed of two major parties seeking government power. Examples of countries using this kind of system are the USA and UK. USA’s Republicans and Democrats are the two major parties. Thus, entailing a greater chance to win. Two- party system is the surest way to achieve an effective, centralized government. This system might lead to a party government which is characterized by stability, choice and accountability. It is an ideal type of system of system to be re placed in the unorganized, decentralized party system. This prevailed in the UK in the 1950’s and 1960’s. But like the multi- party system, it also has its own flaw. One flaw is that what happens if the two major parties tend to be evenly matched collide. It might lead to the voters hesitations or doubts to which party will really represent them. Another flaw is the limited choice of only two programmes each party will propose during election campaigns. Thus, again will give a hard time for the voters to decide. (Heywood, 2002) Japan is another example of a country practicing the two- party system. Their system is highly centralized in terms of structure. The national offices are subdivided into prefectural and local party offices. ( Hinton, 1963) Another reason for changing from the multi- party into a two- party system is that the opposition candidates are using ‘space goat’. They proclaimed all the evil deeds that the administration and as they do so, people believed and sympathized with them. At the time they win in the election, they tend to overlook the simple but significant problems that must be immediately addressed such as land laws, divorce and etc. Thus, the country cannot sacrifice the level of democracy. (Weissenbach, 2010) Parties do not really select their own candidates but instead these candidates only using the party’s power and connections for their own advantage to win the election. (Aceron, 2009)Thus, there is wide gap between standard and  practice in terms of political party. Another concern in the Philippine elections is that it became the process of pure evil doings. Candidates from different parties tend to used money in order to win and voters unfortunately, was being the base of who will they vote and not on what a party’s platforms and leadership credentials. To address this problem, Philippine party- system will be devised into â€Å"personalistic politics and the rule of guns, gold, and goods, and would serve as ‘a ‘germ’ for a parliamentary form of government† (Schwartz, 2001) to achieved a real party – system. This experiment was not successful due to Comelec’s lack of concern for organizational credentials in registering party- list groups. Instead, our party system became more plaque of by issues and controversies. This experiment implies that the country must change into two- party system since the Philippines current party system is not effective enough to represent all Filipinos. This is due that our country has a plurality system which means that the highest number of votes is used to determine the winners. The multi- party system and the plurality system is negatively correlated. For instance, after the Martial Law Filipino voters’s trust for the delicacy of each presidential candidate. Evidences tell that plurality goes well with the two party system since the latter gives a wall of distinction between each parties. In fact, it is expected that a plurality/ majority electoral system will produce a two-party system (Nohlen, 1984). Hence, the combination of the Philippine multi- party system and plurality elections is a flaw combination. With this, parties could hardly develop; simply because the leadership of the government resulting from the elections does not reflect the party performance in the elections. If it was a multi-party system in a proportional representation electoral system, the number of votes garnered by the party determines the number of seats it occupies in the government. But in a plurality election with multi-party system, though an infinite number of political parties is allowed, the result of the elections would  only yield two kinds of parties: a losing party and a winning party. The link between the result of the elections and the configuration of leadership in government is diluted. Another solution they tried is the Republic Act No. 7941 or Party- List Act. It is a law which winners are determined based on the percentage of votes a party gets out of the total number of votes cast for the party list (Aceron, 2009). According to renowned constitutionalist Joaquin Bernas (2007): â€Å"The 1935 Constitution and the Philippine election law up to the 1987 Election Code gave a preferred position to the two major political parties. This was the two-party system. The clear impression, which had emerged from the constitutional scheme prior to the 1987 Constitution was that the electoral system planned and plotted to insure the perpetuation of the party in power. The 1987 Constitution once again makes a try at promoting a multi-party system or open party system. The party-list system, already discussed under Article VI, is meant to be an instrument for fostering the multi-party system. â€Å" As per the evidences presented, the current Philippine party system still lacks of genuine power to work for the common good of our country. Philippines used to be two- party system and as we all know those times were our country proved to be in a good in terms of economy and leadership. Therefore, Philippines must change to two- party system in order to achieve a centralized, effective and organized system that will work for the common good and well- being of their fellow Filipinos without sacrificing the level of democracy.

Strategic Analysis and Strategy Formulation of Tesco

Strategic Analysis and Strategy Formulation of Tesco Jack Cohen founded Tesco in 1919 when he began to sell surplus groceries from a stall in the East End of London. His first days profit was  £1 and sales  £4. The Tesco brand (Tesco Tea) first appeared in 1924. The name comes from the initials of TE Stockwell, who was a partner in the firm of tea suppliers, and CO from Jacks surname. The first Tesco store was opened in 1929 in Burnt Oak in North London, and Tesco was floated on the London Stock Exchange in 1947 as Tesco Stores (Holdings) Limited. Nowadays its market capitalisation is about  £35 677 billions, which rank it at the 10th position. The first self-service store opened in St Albans in 1951 (still operational in 2009 as a Metro), and the first self-service supermarket in Maldon in 1956. Originally specialised in food and drink, it has gradually diversified into areas such as clothing, consumer electronics, financial services, telecoms, home, health and car insurance, dental plans, as well as retailing and renting DVDs, CDs, music downloads, Internet services and software. The principal activity of the Group is retailing and associated activities in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, Hungary, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Turkey, Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Japan, China and the US. The Group also provides retail banking and insurance services through its subsidiary Tesco Personal Finance. Tescos net sales excluding VAT reached  £62.5 billion (US$95 billion) in the financial year to February 2010. Tescos revenues are considerably smaller than Wal-Marts, which reached US$405 billion for the financial year ending January 2010, up by 1% , but they are comparable to Carrefours, whose turnover reached EUR 85.9 billion in 2009 (US$114 billion), down by 1.2%. The Groups selection, training, development and promotion policies ensure equal opportunities for all employees regardless of factors such as gender, marital status, race, age, sexual preference and orientation, colour, creed, ethnic origin, religion or belief, or disability. All decisions are based on merit. Internal communications are designed to ensure that employees are well informed about the business of the Group. Employees are encouraged to become involved in the financial performance of the Group through a variety of schemes, principally the Tesco employee profit-sharing scheme (Shares in Success), the savings-related share option scheme (Save As You Earn) and the partnership share plan (Buy As You Earn). 2. Strategic analysis 4 pillars sustain Tescos strategic positioning in any region of the world SWOT Strengths Supermarkets/hypermarkets, steady growth Private label Established position gives buying power and economies of scale Weaknesses Customer service Relatively small overall market share (just over 3%) Opportunities Different store concepts Room to increase market share Growing demand for premium/imported/organic stuff Car insurance and other non-food products Online shopping Threats Competition intense Saturation: hypermarkets 5 forces: Industry rivalry Very strong Fragmented and competitive market (consumers have wide choice) International retailers and smaller local rivals Threat of substitutes Also supply products (mainly private label) at discount Online retail (new and underdeveloped opportunity) Threat of new entrants Low, saturated, relatively high barriers to entry If large retailers were to start buying up smaller domestic rivals it would be a threat They would be bigger more economies of scale Bargaining power of suppliers Low As the market becomes less fragmented, will get even lower Customers such as Tesco represent large % of their revenue, so Tesco can dictate to suppliers Margins and prices lower with increase in private labels The retail business is very competitive and Tesco is fighting against several different competitors around the world to remain as one of the biggest retailers. A ranking of the different competitors shows that Tesco arrived at the 3rd place, distanced by Carrefour and Wal-Mart, which is much bigger in comparison of all other opponents. We will cast a glance to four main competitors: Wal-Mart, Carrefour, Schwart Beteiligunfs and Seven and I holdings. Wal-Mart is a giant in comparison of other, and that retailing share are slowly improving, around 0,1%, except for Wal-Mart which has a 0,3% growth. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. Wal-Mart (New York Stock Exchange) is an American retailer founded in 1962 by Sam Walton. In less than two decades the company was the dominant player on the American market and is nowadays, seen as a titan among other retailers. Its world retailing share is impressive and rose from 3,5 to 3,9% between 2008 and 2009. They had a profit of more than $ 13,4 billion for the year 2009, it is an increase of 5% in a difficult financial context, far ahead of Carrefour and Tesco. Moreover they have a cash flow of more than $ 11 billion, and we can easily imagine that they will be able to easily continue their expansion abroad. They are the main player on the American market and have different size of store : Hypermarkets, supermarkets, discounters, variety stores, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, clothing and footwear specialist retailers, internet retailing. Sales are still improving in the US market, probably because of the always low prices policy. A basic SWOT analysis shows: Strengths: Sales and profit, rivals are dwarf in comparison Performance in Latin America: they implemented with success in Brazil and Mexico Weaknesses: Saturation of the large format in the USA. They built as many supercenter as possible, and now have to target a new kind of hypermarket. Dependence on home market: the USA still remains Wal-Marts core activities, and it is quasi impossible to increase significantly its market share in this country. Opportunities: New concept of small stores: until now Wal-Mart is known for its supercenter, which are closer from a warehouse than a supermarket. They tried to developed new types of store, smaller to attract more clients from cities. Existing presence and future in emerging market. Wal-Mart is targeting expansion in Russia, but has a strong presence in Mexico and Brazil. Threats: Corporate image: this is probably the major threat for Wal-Mart. Dozens of articles were published, several movies and books as well to highlight how employee are treated. The company has a very bad image, and an anti union policy. This policy explains the failure of Wal-Mart in Germany. Sources: www.euromonitor.com Carrefour S.A Carrefour (Euronext) is a strong number 2 in the retailing sector, and Tesco clairly explained that its main objective was to take its seat. Even if in comparison of Wal Mart, Carrefour remains a dwarf, it is still far ahead of Tesco. Its world retailing share is between 1,1% in 2008 and 1,2% in 2009, its total net sales reached $ 144 billion in 2008, and those of Tesco were of $ 99 billion. However, Tesco had greater profits, but only in 2009 and due to the fact that Carrefour is facing difficult issues in emerging markets. They recently acquire several competitors in emerging markets, and their integration takes time and is quite costly. But the company will soon see its profit increasing. A SWOT analysis highlights: Strengths: Brand awareness and large size group: the group is well known and has the advantage to be very diversified, they are present on every segment: from the small to giant retailer. International and multi format reach: Carrefour is present in more than 30 countries, among retailing firm it is the one with the strongest presence abroad. Weaknesses: Low margins: they faced price pressure from Tesco abroad and Leclerc in the home market (France). So they are force to reduce their margin. Reliance on Western Europe Market: the company is still using western markets as its main cash cow, the development abroad has been very costly and is still not very profitable. But it is mainly due to a transition period. Opportunities: Recent and future new market entries: recent entry in Russia and Bulgaria will increase profits. The group is also targeting India. Re branding to bring more synergies: until now a lot of shops still had their own names like Champion, Shopià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ There is a new policy of rebranding all shops to gain in visibility. Threats: Challenges from the two largest discounters: Aldi and Schwartz are implementing Carrefours home market: France. There is a growing pressure on prices. Unfavourable economic conditions: even with a catch up of the world economy, some of Carrefour main markets like France, Italy or Spain are likely to have a weak economic growth which could have a negative impact on sales. Sources: www.euromonitor.com Seven I Holdings Co Seven I is the main retailer in Japan, far ahead in front of its main competitor AEON and a world retailing share of 0,7%. Profit for 2008 reached $892.3 million, down by 29% due to difficulties in the Japanese economy. SWOT analysis: Strengths: Brand awareness and efficiency: they are very present in Japan. Global presence, especially in Asia: this company is operating in 17 countries, with special focus on Asian market like South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand and Japan. Weaknesses: Under performance in non grocery retailing: in its store non grocery items represent 32% of sales, and this kind of product make the group more vulnerable. Heavy reliance on Japan: the group is in a tight corner, Japan remains its main cash cow and they need to diversify their funding sources. Opportunities: Growth opportunities in emerging market: the presence in China might be increased if they receive an authorization for franchising. They also have expansion plans in Thailand, but nowadays it might be risky due to political trouble. More synergy and economies of scale : among all its subsidiaries they can still improve economies of scale between brands and internet retailing. Threats: Price battle: there is an intensive price battle in Japan. AEON and Wal Mart developed aggressive pricing strategies, and forced Seven to reduce its margin. Japan might face demographic and economic difficulties. There is an ageing population and it could turn as a threat for this retail firm. Sources: www.euromonitor.com Schwarz Beteiligungs Gmbh Schwartz is a German firm mainly active in the hypermarket and discounter business. It is mainly known for its discount branch Lidl. It ranked 8th among global retailer, with a constant world retailing share of 0,6%, but it is the first discounter. Its main competitor is Aldi, ranked at 10th place. It is a family group and has a secret policy, so they do not release publicly the profit results, but the group cash flow reached $ 1,7 billion for 2008. SWOT analysis: Strengths: Group ownership and store concept: the group remains the propriety of one family, so they are well protected from takeover threats and shareholder pressure which could affect a long term strategy. Broad presence in Easter Europe: there is an important presence of the company in eastern Europe with two different brands, far ahead from its competitor Aldi, but still far behind other important competitors like Tesco or Carrefour. Weaknesses: International development confined in Europe: the group is present in Europe, but has no presence in any emerging market like BRICS. Bad corporate image: accused of spying its employee in Germany in 2008. Opportunities: New store formats and internet retailing: the group can develop new format in Europe which are saturated market. Extend presence in Easter Europe: expansion in Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria could generate important profits increase. Threats: Price wars: most of the discounters are engaged in a price wars to gain more and more customers, it could be a important threat because they are force to reduce their margin. Intensive competition among discounters. Sources: www.euromonitor.com Tesco is present in numerous different markets. We couldnt present all of them. So we choose the most strategic for the company in term of sales and profit, and we also add China and the USA because they are two giants market. We didnt show Tescos market share in Japan, because its present is not very important, the company is not in the top twenty retailers, the market is strongly dominated by Seven and AEON. A rapid overview of the table shows that Tesco expansion abroad is very successful. Indeed, in most of the case Tesco is number one in term of market share (Hungary, Czech Republic, Thailand), or number three (Poland and South Korea). Furthermore, in its home market Tesco is an unquestionable leader with more than 13,4% of market share. Abroad Tesco met its goal; the abroad expansion was always leaded by the motto abroad expansion is only justified to become number one, and in several markets like Czech Republic and Hungary, Tesco beneficiated of the first mover advantage. Tesco is definitely the most influent retailing firm in CEE countries, even if in Poland retailers like Biedronka or Carrefour are serious competitors. In comparison, results in China and in the USA might be seen as counter performance, but we have to adopt a relativist posture. China is a very competitive market, the market leader is GOME Electrical Appliances Holding Ltd, and has only 0,9% of market share. The first European firm is Auchan China, ranked at the 4th place and with 0,8% of market share. All competitors are in a tight corner, and no one can dominate the market. In the United State, Wal Mart dominates the market, and all others are dwarf in comparison. Becoming the market leader in the USA is an unrealistic goal. 3. Strategy formulation Tesco has a well-established and consistent strategy for growth, which has allowed them to strengthen their core UK business and drive expansion into new markets. The rationale for the strategy is to broaden the scope of the business to enable it to deliver strong, sustainable long-term growth by following the customer into large expanding markets at home such as financial services, non-food and telecoms and new markets abroad, initially in Central Europe and Asia, and more recently in the United States. The strategy to diversify the business was laid down in 1997 and has been the foundation of Tescos success in recent years. The objectives of the strategy are: To be a successful international retailer To grow the core UK business To be as strong in non-food as in food To develop retailing services such as Tesco Personal Finance, Telecoms and tesco.com To put community at the heart Their long term strategy is pictured in this Steering Wheel scheme: Source: Tesco Annual Report 09 Tesco is implemented in 14 countries, employing 470,000 people and has 4  331 stores worldwide. Source: Tesco Annual Report 09 First, in order to increase sales, Tesco needs to sell more products to existing customers in existing stores. In order to do so, the company has divided its offer into two main streams: products and services. Food and non-food products (fuel, closing, household, health beauty and entertainment goods) are leveraged by private labels programs. Customer segmentation was enhanced by the introduction in 1995 of the companys loyalty card, Tesco Clubcard, which provides benefits and discount to the firms regular customers. In addition, it provides a solid database on the customers needs and profiles. This substantial database is currently used to target identified customers segments by launching private labels which are sub-brands. Tescos Corporate Strategy can be summarized with this statement: Tesco has pulled off a trick that as no any other retailer. That is to appeal to all segments of the market. Tescos Private labels targeting identified segments: Source: Tesco: A case of retailing excellence-Coriolis Research On the other hand, services were expanded into four kinds: Tesco Financial Services named Tesco Bank which is 50/50 joint venture with Royal Band of Scotland. Products on offer include credit cards, loans, mortgages, savings accounts and several types of insurance, including car, home, life and travel; Travel Services: Focused on low-cost packages and travel deals. Joint-venture with Travelcare (UKs largest independent travel agency); iVillage.com: Shopping and information website for women in the UK. Tesco initially acquired a 50% stake and later 100%. It expanded the brand into magazines and books. Tesco Telecom: Home telephone and Internet services offering lower prices than British Telecom. Moreover, they launched a 50/50 Joint Venture with O2 to provide mobile phones services. A similar service has since been launched in Ireland and Slovakia. However, Tesco has not purchased or built a telecoms network, but instead has pursued a strategy of pairing its marketing strength with the expertise of existing telecoms operators. Second, Tesco developed new store formats to capture more customers. It was designed in order to suit varied shopping patterns of their customers. Its store portfolio was splitted into four different store formats: Express: Tesco Express stores are neighbourhood convenience shops, stocking mainly food with an emphasis on higher-margin products (due to small store size, and the necessity to maximise revenue per square foot) alongside everyday essentials. They are found in busy city centre districts, small shopping precincts in residential areas, small towns and on petrol station forecourts. Metro: High street store/shops in large city centre shopping areas aimed at workers, shoppers and local residents. Tesco Metro stores are sized between Tesco superstores and Tesco Express stores. The first Tesco Metro was opened in Covent Garden, London in 1992. Superstore stores offer a full range and many non-food products. These are standard large supermarkets, stocking groceries and a much smaller range of non-food goods than Extra stores. Extra hypermarkets are very large stores offering the maximum food and non-food range situated mainly out-of-town. Their number of these is now being increased by about 20 a year. Newer Tesco Extra stores are usually on two floors, with the ground floor for mainly food and the first floor for clothing, electronics and entertainment. Older stores have all sales on one floor and a cafe on a large upper balcony. In addition, Tesco became the world leader in e-grocery. Tesco has operated on the internet since 1994 and was the first retailer in the world to offer a robust home shopping service in 1996. Tesco.com was formally launched in 2000. It also has online operations in the Republic of Ireland and South Korea. Grocery sales are available within delivery range of selected stores, goods being hand-picked within each store. Third, Tesco expanded on global level. By the mid-90s Tesco realized that the UK retail market was saturated and the growth opportunities would be few. This necessity to expand its business, which was financed with its UKs operations profits, has to be leveraged by 5 prerequisites framing the market. It has to be a large market meaning that it must add significant scale to existing U.K business; The market has to be growing in order to participate in strong organic growth; Retail market has to be underdeveloped which means that there would be an underdeveloped competition and a large availability of premium location store; Opportunities for mass merchandise have to be high in order to use hypermarkets as the vehicle for growth, and thus skip the supermarket phase; Tesco seeks a direct market-leading position usually associated with higher returns. By the mid 90s, Tesco realized that the UK market is saturated and it would offer few opportunities for growth. To continue its success in the retail business, the company recognized the necessity to expand its retail business in the international markets. First, it has targeted the developing markets in Asia and Central-Eastern Europe. Then it decided to enter some developed market such as Japan in 2003 and the United States in 2007. After selling its operations in 1986, Tesco re-entered the Irish market in 1997 after the purchase of Power Supermarkets Ltd. Now it operates from 101 stores. They offer a home delivery shopping service as well as petrol, mobile telephone, personal finance, flower delivery service and a weight-loss programme. Also available is Tescos loyalty programme, the Clubcard. Tesco is now the grocery market leader in the Republic of Ireland. Tesco Ireland also claims to be the largest purchaser of Irish food with an estimated à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1.5 billion annually. Tesco opened its first store in the Czech Republic in 1996 and now has over 84 stores, with further planned. Tesco opened its first stores in the Czech Republic by buying Kmarts operations for  £79 millions and converting them into Tesco stores. The retail sector in Czech Republic was highly fragmented which attracted Tesco to implement in this country (50 retailers covering about 20% of the total market). Tesco is also keen to expand non-food items and has already opened petrol stations and offers personal finance services in the Czech Republic. In 1995 Tesco launched in Hungary its first operation abroad, after purchasing US Kmarts operations. It also opened its first hypermarket in Hungary in the same year. Tesco operates through 101 stores in Hungary with further openings planned. Tesco offers its value, standard, healthy living and finest range in its stores. Tesco Hungary also offers a clothing line and personal finance services. Tesco entered the Polish market also in 1995. It currently operates from 334 stores. Tesco Poland offers the value, healthy living and own branded line of products as well as regional produce, petrol, personal finance services and on-line photo processing. In 1996 Tesco expanded in Slovakia. Now days there are 48 stores. They plan to introduce Tesco Express like local stores. Tesco Slovakia has recently put great emphasis on organic products. However, Tesco Slovakia caused controversy amongst the Slovak government when it was found to have come foul of food safety laws in 2006. In the year 2010 were in Tesco Extra in Bratislava opened the first self-service cash flow, which is also the first of its kind in Central Europe. Tesco entered Turkey in November 2003 by acquiring 5 hypermarkets of Kipa. Tesco remains focused on building infrastructure in Turkey to complete its expansion plans and has already introduced the Tesco Express format. There are plans to increase the rate of expansion as basic infrastructure is built. Lets just remind that Tesco has a small outlet in Calais, France since 1992. It is selling wine, beer and spirits in a single store of 1  400 m ². In 1999 Tesco bought 51% stake in the supermarket retailer Homeplus, which is a part of Samsung, to enter South Korea. The company had focused its location around Seouls developed region in order to become the countrys leading food retailer. Currently Tesco holds 94,6% of the shares in the venture. It operates hypermarkets as well as a home delivery shopping service. It is the second largest retailer in South Korea, just behind Shinsegae Group. On 14 May 2008, Tesco agreed to purchase 36 hypermarkets with a combination of food and non-food products from E-Land for $1.9  billion ( £976  million) in its biggest single acquisition, making Tesco the second largest in the country. The majority of the E-Land stores formerly belonged to French retailer Carrefour before 2006 and most of the stores will be converted to Tesco Homeplus outlets. Tescos South Korean discount store chain, Home Plus, currently has 66 outlets. Tesco entered China in 2004 by acquiring 50% ownership of Hymall, a Taiwan based hypermarket operator. In December 2006 it raised its stake to 90% in a  £180  million deal. Most of Tesco Chinas stores are based around Shanghai. However, Tesco plans to equip the business to expand more quickly and in different areas and take advantage of one of the largest market in the world. Tesco has been increasing its own brand products into the Chinese market as well as introducing the Tesco Express format. Tesco entered Japan in 2003, even though it is the second biggest food market after the US. In fact, the company considered that Japanese market has a strong potential, as it consisted of large number of consumers with high disposable income. Thus, they bought 78 stores of C Two stores for  £139  million in July 2003 by a buy-out. Later on April 2004 they bought stores from Frec. Tesco has adopted an approach which focuses on small corner shops operating similarly to its Express format rather than opening hypermarkets. It has also launched its range of software in Japan. Tesco opened its first store in Malaysia in May 2002 with the opening of its first hypermarket in Puchong, Selangor. It bought a 70% stake of Sime Darby, Malaysias oldest industrial group, to form Tesco Stores. Tesco Malaysia currently operates 32 Tesco and Tesco Extra stores. One third of total shops are in Selanagor with 11 stores. Tesco also acquired Makro, a local wholesaler which was rebranded Tesco Extra and provides products for local retailers. Tesco Malaysia offers a value range; own branded range, electronic goods, the loyalty clubcard and clothing. Tesco Malaysias clubcard introduced Green ClubCard Points in 2007 making Tesco Malaysia to be the first Tesco international business to introduce the scheme. Tesco entered Thailand in 1998 and operates through 380 stores as part of a joint venture with Charoen Pokphand and named the operation Tesco Lotus. This partnership was dissolved in 2003 when Charoen Pokphand sold its shares to Tesco. Tesco Lotus sells a diverse range of products from value food products to electronics to personal finance services. The company is keen to promote its green values and has partnered with the UNEP. Tesco Lotus claims to serve 20 million customers every month and that 97% of its goods are sourced from Thailand in order to fit local needs. In December 2000, Tesco acquired shops of Mackro Asia and entered Taiwan market. It offered special value lines targeting specific customer segments. However, in September 2005 Tesco announced that it was selling its operations to Carrefour and purchasing Carrefours stores in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Both companies stated that they were concentrating their efforts in countries where they had strong market positions. In February 2006, Tesco announced its intention to move into the United States market, opening a chain of grocery convenience stores on the West Coast (Arizona, California and Nevada) in 2007 named Fresh Easy. Tesco purchased a 130,000  square metres (1,400,000  sq  ft) distribution centre in Riverside Country. The company established its U.S. headquarters in El Segundo, California. The first store opened in November 2007 with 100 more expected in the first year. They plan to open a new one every two-and-a-half days in the United States, to mimic the successful expansion of pharmacy chains such as Walgreens in the U.S. Currently Fresh Easy operates 135 stores in the United States. The company announced plans to open stores in wealthy suburbs of the Pakistans capital cities, Islamabad and Karachi. These new stores will be wholesale cash-and-carry businesses. They will compete with Makro and Carrefour who already operate in Pakistan and have done so for many years. Tesco have not yet ruled out plans to open stores in an Express format, though this format would cater more towards the countrys growing middle class. In addition, the project of implementing in Croatia is under construction. In 2009, Tescos International business delivered a very strong performance, helped in part by favourable exchange rate movements during the year, and excluding the United States contributed 51% of the growth in Group sales and 45% of the growth in Group trading profit. Total International sales grew strongly by 30.6% at actual exchange rates to  £17.9bn ( £13.7bn in 2008) and by 13.6% at constant exchange rates. Sales growth slowed in Europe during the second half, which reflected deteriorating economic conditions in a number of markets. In contrast, sales growth in Asia accelerated, driven by the acquisition of the 36 Homever stores in South Korea at the start of the second half. Finally, we can notice in this Group Sales/Space by Region chart that Tesco keep UKs market as their core business Source: Tesco Annual Report 09 4. Recommendations for long term strategic positioning for Tesco in Poland Be as strong in non-food as in food Develop retailing services such as Tesco Personal Finance, Telecoms and tesco.com Develop online shopping Improve customer service Acquire domestic small chain from traditional trade to reach consumers in small towns Open more Tesco Express in the cities for people looking for proximity Open delicatessen like stores Open small inside restaurants in the supermarkets