International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

International Business - Essay Example Unlike Asia Tile, Platinum manufactures tiles both for import and export. At first, Platinum exported their products mainly to the United States and to several other countries, such as China, Malaysia, and Vietnam. But, due to a change of demand for the tiles’ motive, PCI started to decrease their export to the United States. However, the revenue gained from exporting to the United States is not as much as the revenue achieved from exporting to Malaysia, Vietnam, and China. The raw materials needed to manufacture exporting goods to the United States are relatively scarce in Asia. As such, this has caused the production cost to increase as the price of the raw materials increase due to scarcity. This case has become a challenging issue. PCI also outsources several of their intermediate goods from countries around Asia. They import their glaze materials, as well as coloring materials from a company in China called China Glaze. PCI gets better quality for these materials for a si gnificantly better price. However, outsourcing goods from other countries have some significant disadvantages. It is time consuming, and sometimes the coloring materials do not properly match with what PCI needs. If PCI needs to produce a certain type or motive immediately, it will not be able to use the outsourced goods as they are very time consuming. John Koh stated that the process of outsourcing the intermediate goods can be a very complicated and tedious chore. There was one time where the goods (China Glaze) were rejected because it did not meet the standards of PCI’s expectations. Therefore, they had to ship it back to China for an exchange of the better quality products, though sometimes they may even have to remake the mixture of the coloring materials in order to match the original design (the percentage of which coloring materials to be used). Not only does this get complicated at times, but it can be very time consuming (it can take more than a month for the mate rials to be received). There is also a challenging issue when it comes to machineries. PCI bought most of their machines from Europe. Therefore, when the machine either malfunctions or breaks, it takes a few days for the technician to arrive from Europe. The machine’s company will not let one of PCI’s engineers study and fix the machines as the repairs require careful and professional attention. The consequence when a machine breaks down is a decrease in production for several days. Back then, Platinum Ceramics Industry was the leading ceramic tiles manufacturing company in Indonesia. But, due to an increase in competitors, it started to lose their market. To solve this issue, PCI decided to expand their company by building new factories to manufacture export goods. Some challenges PCI encountered building new factories were the risk of market failure, the need to find decent raw materials locally to minimize production cost, and the shipping costs. However, if the loc al raw materials did not meet the standard of export’s quality, then outsourcing intermediate goods would be required. The things that need to be observed and studied in this case are reflected in Michael Porter’s Diamond model. It discusses the significant factors that we should study in an international business. These factors are demand condition, related supporting industry, firm’s strategy, infrastructure and rivalry, factor condition, and government. Demand condition

Love and Courtship in Federalist America Essay Example for Free

Love and Courtship in Federalist America Essay The courtships and marriages of Theodore Sedgwick and of his seven children span the American Revolution and the early republic, with Theodore first marrying in 1767/68, his children being born between 1775 and 1791, and all except Catharine marrying by their thirties. In some ways, Kensleas findings are unsurprising, as arranged marriages gave way to individual choice: Sedgwick arranged his eldest daughters marriages in 1797 and 1801, while his sons enjoyed love matches within a decade. But Kensleas focus on the family adds a new dimension: male influence in arranging young womens marriages apparently extended beyond fathers to brothers. Professing so much pride and pleasure in contemplating her worth, that I want the world to know what a sister I possess (45), Theodore II insisted Frances marry Ebenezer Watson, whom she did not love. When Watson turned out to be physically abusive, Francess brothers again played a significant role by using their influence on her husbands business as a way to control him and offering their homes as a refuge. Just as brothers influenced their sisters marriages, peers played a significant role in love matches: in both cases, courtship took place in a group context. Even when love superseded paternal choice, siblings made clear that marriage to someone was necessary: as Catharine Sedgwick asked her equivocating brother, What are you doing? Sucking your thumbs, and building castles while all the birds of the air are building their nests (110). Friends were equally important in shaping courtship. The wonderfully named Friendlies—a group of single and married Boston women in their twenties—not only provided the younger Sedgwicks with potential wives, but advised them on how to choose well. Kenslea demonstrates that marrying for love by no means simplified choice; instead, both men and women employed badinage as a way of ascertaining intent without committing themselves, and alliances shifted so quickly that the Sedgwick men seem to have courted all the Friendlies at once. Such dizzingly complex male/female relations (119)—replete with wit, romantic potential, and power plays—suggest parallels to the mixed groups Catharine Allgor discovered in the early republics political salons (103). At least during courtship, male/female spheres had remarkably porous boundaries, and Kenslea finds the beginnings of the domestication of virtue (169) in the early republic, as personal  happiness succeeded public good. As couples became engaged, they retreated from friends and family and developed relationships Kenslea finds similar to those Karen Lystra discovered among Victorians two decades later. In Harry Sedgwick and Jane Minots engagement of 1816-17, they quit badinage for candor, tested their relationship with a year long separation as Sedgwick established himself financially, and created new selves by employing letters as a form of physical contact and ritual celebration of their love (131). Like Lystra, Kenslea finds fluidity of gender roles (155), with Jane complimenting Harry, you are the nearest to a woman in your feelings of any man I know (144). The Sedgwick manuscripts, however, allow Kenslea to examine such courtships through siblings and parents eyes, rather than only from the couples perspective. If the Sedgwicks provide much evidence of family and friends roles in court- ship and the erosion of distinct gender roles, they also suggest the limits of change. The Sedgwicks occupied a narrow cut of society—Federalist, Unitarian, and upper class—but male privilege framed their lives.

Henry Moore at the Tate Britain | Summary

Henry Moore at the Tate Britain | Summary Tate Britain is one of the main galleries within London along with Tate modern, which is showing the works of the late Henry Moore (1898-1986), one of the worlds most famous pre-eminent sculptors of the 20th century along with Alberto Giacometti (1901-1966) who is best known by his broad beamed, monumental reclining females. By the first half of the twentieth century there were also Henri Gaudier-Brzeska, Jacob Epstein, and Barbara Hepworth. Which Moore met in 1921 as a fellow student? The Guardian The most important exhibition of Moores work for a generation As you approach the Tate Britain you are confronted with large Henry Moore banners hanging from four white poles on the Manton entrance gallery forecourt, just before you walk down the ramp and steps to the entrance. This makes it easy access for those who are disabled or have wheel chairs. Once inside the entrance youre confronted with a large open visitors and information area, to the right is the gallery shop and to the left is the gallery to the Henry Moore exhibition. This is clearly marked with posters and large wall boards behind the counters, where the tickets are bought. The ticket comes with a map of the whole gallery floor plans, which shows all the rooms throughout the Tate Britain. The whole gallery holds a wide variety of works from famous artists within the 15th to 21st century covering all aspects of British art, history and society. For the Moore exhibition viewers they are also given a fold out leaflet on Henry Moores work within the exhibition giving you a breakdow n of the movements and themes around the time of his works pieces. Viewers are now ready to see the work of the man they read in history books, on websites and within universities to colleges. When entering the first room viewers are greeted with a semi dark atmosphere with a reddish burgundy wall blended with cream walls. These colours make the room feel warm with relaxing surroundings for the sculptures that are positioned on their white plinths. Several pieces were also displayed in clear cases. There where images on the walls and four stone figure masks, also large reclining figures and images of people lying or sleeping in dark scary tunnels in war time. With each displaying piece there was an information plaque. Each piece had a number of individual spot lights pointing to them from the ceilings, which set the pieces off well giving each peace its own individuality. The Daily Telegraph We see a different Moore from the one most of us know In 1901 Moore studied one of the old masters from the 15th to 18th century. The great Michelangelo, this is when Moore first became interested in sculpture. By this time of his life Moore was constantly visiting the British museum. Here he encountered that pre-modern art. Also at this time of his life he came across the author, roger frys, book of vision and design. Like fry Moore soon believed that primitive art did convey a possessed intense vitality. When the first publication was printed in December of 1920, which Moore soon read? Here is when Moore first started becoming interested in the primitive art form and the processes. In 1922 Moore begin his first carvings in wood and stones.he particuly love english stones. Around this time moore carved his his first mother and child piece. You can clearly recognize the primitive side to Moores first sculpture pieces within the first gallery rooms. These works fall under the time when modernism was really being challenged. Even Moore hi mself began to challenge the modernism style. You can clearly see this within Moores later years. Each sculpture is positioned so the viewers can study the whole piece from every angel. while walking around them. So with each individual piece u can see how the light reflects off the shapes. which Moore clearly intended to show when positioned out side. This is what makes it easier to understand each piece individually with in the gallery space. When the viewer first walks in to the gallery there is a write up printed on each and every room entrance. You will also notice there are sculptures relating to the mother and child in each room too. The first rooms fall under the time of modernism the next room is the mother and child room then you move on to moores post war peices. Along with Up to here Within this essay I have been looking at the Henry Moore Exhibition at the Tate Britain in London. As explained in the introduction to the exhibition, this focuses on Moores career from the 1920s to the 1960s. This solo exhibition has been widely publicized and praised as these newspapers and quotes show. The Guardian The most important exhibition of Moores work for a generation All the grand claims about archetypes, about humanity essentialised in beautiful organic forms: all are justified by the drawings of sleepers, and the rarely shown images of miners at the coal-face. Moore finds form, in all respects it seems, in draughtsman ship rather than sculpture. Comfortable, passive, smooth, polite: the subject can be as dramatic as a mortally wounded man, as monstrous as a lopped and bloated corpse, and still the sculptures lack singularity and power. What strikes most is their family resemblance, their Mooreishness, their steady continuation down the long decades of his career. It is almost half a century since Herbert Read described them as forms that are vital to the life of mankind, as if we could scarcely survive without them. The world has changed, but the art has not. I cannot believe we were looking at the same sculptures The guardian Talks about how moors works are viewed in the twenty-first century. I think there being a little bit harsh and over critical with his creations and ideas for his sculptures and his works on paper. These where created in the nineteenth century and the views on the works are not the same. The work should be viewed on the ideas of Moore craftsmanship with stone and the desire to the figurative form with the illusion of light and dark and the working with shadows to express the forms. When positioned in the outside environment which plays a big part to observing his pieces with in a natural world. So how can you really see the full potential of moors work when placed within the Tate Britain gallery halls? The Daily Telegraph We see a different Moore from the one most of us know Moore was unlucky in that the years after his death in 1986 were a period of tremendous innovation in British sculpture. As the careers of Tony Cragg, Richard Deacon, and Anish Kapoor hit their stride, it was hard to look at Moores work with a sense of discovery and excitement. Almost a quarter of a century on, we are far enough away to see it in perspective. It no longer looks passà ©, but eternal How was Moore so unlucky after his death? He has succeeded in many ways his work shows how his life was and the forms of his figure sculptures tell a story of desire and passion. he had while working in various stones, even his paper and ink drawings shows a time of desperations in the world of war. People sleeping in the tunnels to survive another day scared wondering if there was going to be a tomorrow. His figure drawing drawn with various mediums from ink and chalk and different washes looking mainly at the form consisted with natural light. Moore was not unlucky as the papers says his work is on show even to this day celebrating his career and life with in the Tate Britain walls yes his figures may be similar to one another in a dimensional way but his craftsmanship and his relation to explore the use of stone is what is important here and the timeline when sculpture artists where still really discovering them selfs in the world of art. As during the time of the 1930s the directions of Nicholson and Hepworths work looked so similar. Even in painting and sculpture they were developing there own vocabulary of pure, simplified forms, along with sculpturer Henry Moore and other artists such as? the leading European practitioners of the new abstract art Naum Gabo, Piet Mondrian, Constantin Brancusi and Jean Arp. For these artists abstraction and the concern with pure forms had a democratic, utopian social aspect and a universal character that could transcend national differences. This vision stood in stark contrast to the rise of fascism, with its emphasis on racial identity and literal, propagandistic art. The Metro Theres Moore to him than you think The big interview: Henry Moore For some, seeing a Henry Moore sculpture indoors is like watching a wild animal in captivity. We are accustomed to viewing his work on display in provincial towns, surrounded by acres of green space, so the prospect of finding more than 150 pieces cooped up under artificial light seems unnatural. However, for this first major London retrospective of the sculptors work since his death in 1986, a darker interior setting should prove entirely fitting? Tate Britain aims to show that, far from being the cosy father figure of 20th-century sculpture, Moore was in fact a more responsive and innovative artist than many give him credit for. Moore is familiar and still so popular yet theres a sense that his critical reputation isnt what it might be, partly because of that familiarity. Says curator Chris Stephens. The language used in the publicity was aimed at a wide range of public audience to attract the general public. There were large flags outside the gallery entrance and posters on the walls within the reception area to publicize the exhibition. The culture show dedicated an hour show programme to the artist, which also included a discussion from the exhibition curator, Chris Stevens. As the publicity includes news clips, national papers and large scale publicity at the gallery these all combine to show the importance of this solo exhibition.

Parts Of Automobile :: Car Parts

Air Filter – a device that reduces the concentration of solid particles in an airstream to a level that can be tolerated in a process or space occupancy; a component of most systems in which air is used for industrial processes, ventilation, or comfort air conditioning. Automobile self starter – the bell housing is part of the transmission system on a gasoline (also known as petrol) or diesel powered vehicle. It is bolted to the engine block and contains the flywheel and the torque converter or clutch of the transmission. The starter motor is usually mounted here engaging with a ring gear on the flywheel. On the opposite end to the engine is usually bolted the gearbox. Bucket seat – a seat contoured to hold one person, distinct from bench seats which are flat platforms designed to seat multiple people. Bucket seats are standard in fast cars to keep riders in place when making sharp or quick turns. Bumper – a part of an automobile designed to allow one vehicle to impact with another and to withstand that collision without severe damage to the vehicle's frame. Brush guards, push bars, etc. were added "after-market" to bumpers of automobiles, pickups, trucks, and utility vehicles since at least the 1920s to provide additional protection to the vehicle. While bumpers were originally made of heavy steel, in later years they have been constructed of rubber, plastic, or painted light metal leaving them susceptible to damage from even minimal contact. For the most part, these vehicles cannot push, or be pushed by, another vehicle. An entire after-market industry has developed which now produces various guards to protect these vulnerable modern bumpers. Buzzer – or sometimes called beeper is a signaling device, usually electronic, typically used in automobiles, household appliances such as a microwave oven, or game shows. Car battery – a type of rechargeable battery that supplies electric energy to an automobile. Usually this refers to a SLI battery (Starting - Lighting - Ignition) to power the starter motor, the lights and the ignition system of a vehicle’s engine. This also may describe a traction battery used for the main power source of an electric vehicle. Car door – an opening to enter to the car (or their compartments or partition), often equipped with a hinged or sliding panel which can be moved to leave the opening accessible, or to close it more or less securely. Clutch – a machine element for the connection and disconnection of shafts in equipment drives.

Ancient Rome and Romans

Rome vs. Greece Which of the city-states do you think was the better civilization? There are many difference and similarities between these city-states. Both are the most honorable ancient cultures in Western culture. Greece and Rome had fought many battles, but those battles only made them stronger. Both had their own ways of life and political views as a civilization, and these ways varied incomparably. While Greece had many artistic achievements, Rome focused on creating and improving a unified empire. Therefore, both have different ways of making their civilization remembered by the people of today.The first difference in Roman and Greek civilization is their geographical features. Rome had a better chance to unify its people because of its location. Rome is located at the center of the Italian peninsula. It was easier for Rome to keep control of its neighboring areas. Rome gained control over the areas surrounding the Italian peninsula by conquest and by providing Roman citizens hip for the conquered people. The residents of the Italian peninsula classified themselves as Romans during the Punic Wars, and then it led to the creation of the unified Roman Empire.On the other hand, Greece’s mountainous terrain separated several Greek city-states from one another. The expansion of the Greek civilization all over the Mediterranean basin was just an increase of detached Greek city-states. The detachment of the Greek city-states prevented Greece from creating its own empire. The Athenians’ plan of creating an empire by the domination of the Delian League backfired, by leading to the Peloponnesian Wars. The Romans adopted many characteristics of the Greeks to its culture. However, there are still many differences between their cultures.The Romans translated the names of the great gods of the Greeks into its language, so it will be more Roman-like. For example, the Roman name of the Greek god Poseidon is Neptune. The Romans’ religion is more sole mn than the Greeks. The Romans believed that good or bad luck came from the gods, depending on what the gods were feeling. If they were happy it means good, however, if they were unhappy then bad luck would come to the Romans. The Romans worshipped Jupiter Optimus Maximus. They got the idea of wearing togas from the Greeks too.During the Roman Republic, the citizens started wearing togas. Another difference is the Romans’ art. Their artworks are more realistic than the Greeks. The Romans’ human sculptures look like real people. They used marbles to sculpt public officials’ portraits. Their arts are usually use for political propaganda. The Romans treated women way better than the Greeks. Women had a little freedom during the Roman Republic. They could leave the house, go shopping or visit a temple, and talk to their neighbors without the need of their husbands’ permission.As time went on during the Roman Empire, the women were allowed to own property, run business, inherit wills, and more. However, the Greeks are very different from the Romans. In Greek mythology; there are 12 main gods. Some of the gods that belong to the 12 Olympians are Zeus, Poseidon, and Hera. In Greek mythology there are a lot of monsters. Minotaurs, centaurs, and chimera (a hybrid animal) are significant Greek monsters. There are two types of hybrid monsters, a hybrid of animals and a hybrid of people. Greek arts are idealistic, whereas the Romans are realistic.Greek arts are usually about the exploration of nature and philosophy. They portray the human bodies. They are perfectionists. Their architectural buildings are measured mathematically. Examples of the architectural building that used mathematical methods are the Parthenon and the Temple of Hera. Women in Greece, excluding Sparta, had no rights. They were treated as their husbands’ property Their husbands need to be aware of where they are and what they are doing. In order for the women to go ou t or talk to their visitors, they need their husbands’ consent. This treatment of women did not change as time went on.Other differences between the Greeks and the Romans are their advancements in science and technology. Romans were great engineers and builders. They built many bridges, roads, and other structures. Their engineering is influenced by the Etruscans. To maintain their bridges solid and long-lasting, they used Etruscans’ keystone arch. It was hard for them to keep their bridges stable, so they focused on improving the creation of cement. They use pozzolana concrete for the bridges’ piers, so the sand that is brought by the river currents will not ruin the base of the bridges.They were the first people who used concrete for building structures. Roads built by the Romans also helped them to unify their empire. All of the roads that they built lead to Rome. The creation of the aqueducts was one of the best inventions of the Romans. The aqueducts carry and distribute the water throughout the city of Rome. Aside from Roman technologies, the Romans also had advancements in science. Galen, who wrote a medical textbook during the Roman Empire, was the fist in identifying many symptoms and treatments for an illness.His books were used as a guide in medicine for at least a thousand year. On the other hand, some of Greece’s invention those were reinvented until the 20th century includes analog computers, vending machines, and showers. The analog computer was invented in 150 B. C. , but it was only use as a calculator, calendar, and as a GPS for navigation. The vending machine was used for holy water refill by inserting a coin. In 400 B. C. , the Greeks invented indoor showers. It was used in the gymnasium at Pergamum for female and male athletes to use.The Greeks also have science advancements. Aristotle, a Greek philosopher, opened The Lyceum. The Lyceum is a school where he observed how things come to live. He came up a procedur e for debating according to rules of logic. The scientific method we use today is based on Aristotle’s works and discoveries. Another person that contributed in Greek’s science is Hippocrates. Hippocrates is a Greek physician. He also described disease symptoms like Galen of Rome. He examined the human body to find out more about the illness the body consist.Hippocrates is well-known as â€Å"the father of modern medicine. † He also built a medical school on the island of Cos, Greece, where he was born. After his books about his medical teachings were published for Alexandria library, the people stopped believing that diseases and illnesses came from the gods as punishments; they learned that illness had a physical and rational explanation. His Hippocratic Oath had a great influence on the doctors today; they promise to be honest, to preserve life, and to keep information about their patients private.When choosing a civilization, it is hard because all of the ci vilizations does not have everything you want especially during this time period. The Romans and the Greeks are both great civilizations that have been growing over time. Both civilizations have success and failures of their own. The Romans had their outstanding legionary armies that helped them conquer many lands and put their civilizations to its height, but they also had a downfall when the generals decided to be greedy and fought each other for the thrown.Greece was also successful during the Athenian democracy because it brought many male citizens together, and they fought to protect their government. However, the opposing city-sate, which is Sparta, agreed changing their government to traditional dictatorship. Then it led to battle, but Athenians couldn’t defeat the Spartans, so it led to the fall of the Greek democracy. On the bright side, both civilizations found ways to resolve their problems. Rome and Greece are well-known because of their great achievements, and bo th are great influence on the lives of the people today.Standard: 9SS3: Students examine the antecedents, origins, development and achievements of the classical civilizations of Greece and Rome from 2000 B. C. E. to 500 C. E. 9Ec. 5: Compare works that express a universal theme and provide evidence to support the views expressed in each work. 9E2a. 5: Use writing to formulate clear research questions and to compile information from primary and secondary print or Internet sources. 9E2a. 6: Develop the main ideas within the body of the composition through supporting evidence, commonly held beliefs, hypotheses, and definitions.

buy custom Mark Wallace essay

buy custom Mark Wallace essay Mark Wallace approach ethnography as a qualitative technique that is concerned with the understanding and learning of cultural phenomena, which are shown in knowledge and system that guide the life of a cultural group. Ethnography is centered in the studies of ethnic groups, ethnic genesis, people, composition, settlement, social welfare, and composition. Therefore, it remains crucial in analyzing human societies and cultures. In fact, scholars have argued that ethnography is aimed at describing the nature and characteristics of the people under study. The novel, the Quarry and the Lot, is centered on three friends; Luke, Nick and Amelia. They returned to their homeland to attend a funeral of their childhood friend, Joseph Klein. On the contrary, the deceased took a different life dimension that made him reckless and ruthless, though he was brought up as a decent and humble boy. Joseph took a different culture in life that was different from that of his friends. Evidently, the people who attended his funeral were not sorry about his death (Wallace 94). There were mixed reactions and emotions during the funeral since the deceaseds ways of life could not be compared to his age mates and friends. Joseph grew up in Texas, and it was very difficult to understand what made him choose the most controversial way of life. He was perceived by many people as ruthless, destructive and bully, a subculture he admired. This kind of a subculture was not in conformity with the normal societal values, which advocates for the proper upbringing of chi ldren. The children are expected to grow up respectfully. However, these unaccepted behavior that Joseph adored brought him a lot of happiness. Unfortunately, the bad behavior led to his tragic death at the tender age of thirty two. Perhaps, it is the bad character that does not conform to the societal norms and values that makes him as a character in the novel fades quickly as the novel continues (Wallace 19). In the novel, there are some subcultures that were clearly not accepted in the society. For example, prostitution and homosexuality that eroded the moral principles of the society. Notably, these bad sub-cultural practices emerged and continued to flourish in the society. An important question to ask is the availability of the custodians and moral guidance when immoral acts of prostitution and homosexuality emerged and slowly became acceptable in the society. The fact that the disciplines of religion and sociology were taken for granted for many years, until the nineteenth century shows a lot of contrast between the two groups of people; those who lived before and after the nineteenth century. Studies show that those people who lived before the nineteenth century were perceived as rigid about morality. They advocated for harsh sanctions, heavy punishments and penalty to discourage immoral acts on the society. The heavy punishments and sanctions would help the society maintain its identity that was morally and ethically sound. During this period, it was not easy to get someone who could come out to confess about having been in same gender relationships, and having committed acts of prostitution. However, in some modern societies, acts such as gay marriages and abortion are allowed to take place. Due to the issues of cultural relativism, it is hard to tell precisely the moral acts since the concept moral is relative; depending on place, tim e and the population characteristics. In the novel, the narrators grandfather learnt from the jaguar experience in Mexico that some things were beyond human understanding. He compares the jaguar incidence to mens behavior in Texas, which is after a night of gambling and drinking. These activities made men behave violently without any apparent reason. The situation was different in Mexico, where the jaguar, though hungry and in danger, it did not engage men in violence. Instead, it slipped away in the morning. This made the narrator understand that mystery was a real phenomenon. Just like the narrators grand fathers failure to understand why the jaguar landed on his roof top, the narrator could as well not understand the mystery behind the death of his friend, Joseph (Wallace 68). In the novel, the narrator tries to explain why the men failed to kill the jaguar since it is not culturally accepted to kill animals without proper reasons. However, the situation is different in Texas, where boys like torturing animals owing to their poor and cruel upbringing. This sub-theme clearly shows the disparity and cultural differences of the people of Texas and Mexico. In chapter one of the novel, the author makes a comparison between two cultures. In Texas, the narrator receives a phone call from his son, informing him about the death of Joseph, Klein. At the beginning, it is not clear to the narrator and his wife about who has actually made the call. To them, this incidence is quite different from the Jaguars. In the Jaguars incidence, the grandfather never wanted someone to make a call because he did not wantanybody to know about that scary incidence. In a way, this showed how the grand father was cultured in an environment where the information secrecy was highly valued (Wallace 86). In addition, the arrival of the narrators grandfather in Mexico brings another sharp contrast between the two cultures that is American and Mexican. In America, the narrators grandfather was considered as a small town doctor, in the United States, but the situation was different in Mexico. In Mexico, he was highly respected, amongst the poor and the rich. This shows the culture and identity of the Mexican who are portrayed in the novel as loving and welcoming. Here, the rich do not despise the poor, as evidenced with the grandfathers welcome. Evidently, the narrator portrays the sub-culture that is propagated by the jaguar as outlawed groups, which engaged in careless consumption of alcohol and other drinks. Besides, the group engages in listening terror-themed rap music that promotes acts of hooligans and crime in the society. In fact, such music is not descent t listened to since they are sources of immoral acts and bad behavior among the youth in the society. This kind of outlawed cultures forms the foundation of hostility in the society. For instance, Josephs brother appreciated their humble background and lifestyle. However, Joseph succumbed to an alien sub-culture when he refused to accommodate the laughter and mockery of his fellow students when they were at school. He saw this as an embarrassment since he never wanted to accept that he was from a poor family. From this analysis, it can be deduced that poverty was never welcomed in this sub-culture, and the poor were often looked down upon. This is contrary to what we saw in Mexico, where both the rich and the poor were friendly, loving and lived alongside each other in peace (Wallace 69). Moreover, it is clear, from the analysis of the novel that economic status dictates the culture of the people. For instance, in American sub-culture, the rich did not easily welcome Josephs grandfather, who was seen as small village doctor. But, in Mexico, the situation was different, since the majority is the middle and low income earners; people can easily cope up with one another and live in a peaceful co-existence. Besides, the economic inequality is evidenced in the media houses, which associate crime with music that is produced by psychopathic records, famous among the poor and the middle class. For instance, Joseph and other juggalas who are from the low income families found themselves on the wrong side of the law when they were unfairly persecuted because of their cultural way of dress code, music listened to and their eating habits, which were regarded by the rich as unethical and lack decency. It is interesting to note the way the sub-cultures in the novel are portrayed and how different generations perceive various cultures. For example, fifty years ago, homosexuality was considered as a criminal offense. The homosexuals and lesbians could not come out and openly declare their intentions and marital status. But, currently the culture is accepted in some societies, and there are some cases of gay marriages, even in churches. Arguably, this kind of culture is common in the urban settings (Wallace 19). It is debatable to ask oneself, why the same societies that promote moral degradation and decadence are the ones who pioneer scientific and technological development. A society that is not morally responsible for its action can make its people perish. For example, the use of technological and scientific knowledge to manufacture nuclear weapons and drugs can lead to mass destruction and loss of lives, if the society is not responsible and accountable for its actions. Currently, the lesbians and gays make use of the social network sites to carry out their activities. Before, these activities were considered as cultural taboos and no one could easily declare such status in public. Immoral acts such as pornography were unheard of, and could not be allowed to take place in the traditional society where culture was highly valued. Various questions have been raised on the fate of homosexuality why it started and its effects on peoples lives living during that time, and why there is no much literature on the same. Possibly, the societal culture did not permit such texts to be openly discussed. Could be the male dominance and chauvinism never allowed some issues to be publicly discussed; especially the women were not permitted by their male counterparts to discuss issues about men. In fact, in the past, writings on gay and lesbianism were considered immoral and unlawful since such texts could easily land someone in jail (Wallace 59). The war against homosexual sub-culture started around the eighteenth century. By then, the population that practiced the homosexual sub-culture was smaller than the current one. In fact, there were no polices, which were put in place to promote the practice of the homosexuality. But, still the practice went against all odds and it became paramount in the society, despite the strong oopposition from the government and the society. From the novel, a special police force known as the Mouches was established to eliminate the homosexual culture. This special police force who pretended to be lesbians failed to expel the homosexual sub-culture that had grown into a strong force. According to the analysis from the novel, it is that a subculture though accepted and followed by only a few people can grow into a strong force that is not easy to get rid of in the society. This is evident with the case of the homosexuals, who were just a handful people, but still remained a big threat to the soci ety. This group that formed the subculture was hard to eliminate in the society, even the state machinery, which is the special police force could not contain this group of people. The legislative policies and state ideologies also failed to contain the homosexual subculture. Therefore, one would ask whether there is a possibility of containing that subculture in the society. But, before that it is important to analyze some of the social effects of such subcultures in the society. What would happen if the society members accept and embrace the subculture of homosexual and lesbianism? To some extent, the narrator of the story was trying to say that the society has failed to contain the subcultures, which were considered immoral such as homosexuality and lesbianism. Though, there is still some glimmer of hope since the society and the government is making all the possible attempts to discourage such subculture. Amerilia, a female character in the novel, fell a victim to sexual abuse and harassment from her father and brothers (Wallace 76). This clearly shows that that par1ticular society does not respect womens dignity and personal privacy that infringe their rights. Besides, it is clear from the novel that the society does not respect the institution of marriage. On the other hand, the fathers have failed in their parenting role (Wallace 32). The women do not have a voice to be heard in this society since Amerilas mother does not come out strongly in the novel to condemn the acts of sexual abuse and harassment to her daughter. The society failed to define appropriate punishments for such offenses. In away, it can be deduced that the society is compromising a lot on some behavior, which are eventually accepted as a societal norm. Another worrying subculture that is evident from the readings is abortion, which comes as a result of prostitution. The prostitution is prevalent in the urban areas, where people from different cultures meet and often make casual intimate relationships. Little or no marriages are taking place in these relationships, which result in unwanted pregnancies. From the novel, this is portrayed as lack of respect for life and the unborn. In the past, acts of abortion were highly condemned in the society, and one found committing such acts were either excommunicated or killed to serve as a warning to the others. But, currently the situation is different since laws have been put in place to legalize abortion. Despite the advantages of the abortion, it is evidenced that the societal morals are eroding very fast. Festivals remain one of the pillars of the subculture. Several occasions were set to perform ceremonies, which marked some specific events in the society such as harvesting ceremonies, naming ceremonies, religious ceremonies and others. For example, marriage ceremonies ushered the couples into a permanent union and start of a new life. During such occasions, people gathered as a sign of unity in the society. However, things are different these days. The ceremonies have been commercialized and lost meaning. In fact, the society has become disunited. Often, politicians attend ceremonies and gatherings just to pursue their own personal interests and ambitions to gain power. Notably, these are some of the sub-cultural aspects, which are highlighted in the novel (Wallace 78). Conclusion In sum, from the novels settings, Wallace portrays a community a society that greatly relied on locally produced foods and drinks. For example, the fermented drinks were highly valued at that time. However, after the industrial revolution, peoples tastes and consumption patterns shifted from the locally produced products to the industrial ones. And this was seen in the lifestyle shift of Juggalo and his friends who often consumed cheap soft drinks as discussed earlier. This clearly shows how the society cultures of the past are rapidly changing. Indeed, Wallace is overwhelmed by the American sub-urban cultural setting that supports conventional individualism and selfishness. The main emphasis from the novel is that culture should be a unifying factor in the society. Culture should unite both the rich and the poor in the society so that there is a sense of harmony and belonging. Without unity, it is very hard to promote culture in the society. Consequently, the absence of a very strong culture in the society breeds the elements of sub-cultures, which lack proper moral principles and doctrines that finally led to the societys moral degradation. Buy custom Mark Wallace essay

Death Is Better Than Slavery Essays

Death Is Better Than Slavery Essays Death Is Better Than Slavery Paper Death Is Better Than Slavery Paper Death is better than slavery- Harriet Ann Jacobs African Americans were treated like property and forced to work against their will. They were treated like animals beaten, sold, and raped for no reason at all. Slavery was hell on earth; many slaves would rather die than continue to live. Working in the heat for hours on hours with no water or food was torture. But they had no choices, for example they were unable to learn how to read and write they had no choice if they could get their son or daughter that they just gave birth to. They were punished or even killed was trying to run away. They couldn’t even speak their native language. Slavery was immortal, inhuman, and enduring. Imagine not having a voice for yourself; imagine not being able make decisions. That’s exactly how these African Americans felt being enslaved. The worse feeling had to be for the woman seeing their child sold and knowing that they would never be able to see them again. Being separate from their families had to be an extremely harsh experience that played a role in their mental condition. On top of that they had no sense of literacy. Confusing had to be part of their day to day life. African Americans had no choice but to do what the white man said, slaves were punished for varies of things resisting slavery, not working hard enough, talking too much, or trying to run away. Punishments included being chained to the ground, being whipped, or being hung to die. Dolen Perkins Valdez gave me insight on just how cruel and manipulative these white men were to take these helpless women and trick them into thinking they were just as important as their wives. The author shows Lizzie although she is a slave; she is treated very well by Drayle. She deeply cares for him and experiences a small amount of freedom, but she is not free she still has to work and still gets punished for disobeying him. She is so brainwashed that when she had the chance to leave she didn’t take it. She also gave me insight on how these slaves lost their heritage; they didn’t know where they came from, they couldn’t even speak their native language. One of the most important things someone has is there heritage. If you look in the dictionary heritage is define as something inherited at birth, such as personal characteristics, status, and possessions. Slavery made these African Americans lose who they were and what they were about. They didn’t know where they came from or where they family was. In conclusion Slavery was one of the worse things that have ever happened throughout history. Dolen Perkins Valdez did a great job painting they picture on how slavery was, the many aspects of it. African Americans will never be the same because what their ancestors went through. This in fact has impacted and will never be forgotten as long as we shall live. | |