People Should Not Persuade Others to Join Their Religion Essay

I agree with the statement ‘People should not persuade others to join their religion’ because it’s the persons choice. Everyone has the right to choose what religion they want, or don’t want, based on their own reasons and feelings and no one should try and influence them into choosing one religion that they may not actually believe in but have been persuaded by others that it is the best religion to choose. Traditional Christian Missionaries would most likely disagree with what the statement says. They believe that they should go around spreading the gospel to persuade people to join Christianity because it is a job that God wants them to do. They take passages from the bible like John 14; No one can get to God except through Jesus, and John 3:14; Whoever believes in Jesus will not die but have eternal life, literally and use them to convince others that they have to join the Christian faith because it is the only way they can truly be connected with God. I do not agree with this point of view because if they are following their faith to the letter, then most religions teach that God will always be there for you even if you don’t have a faith so you don’t have to believe in Jesus to connect with God. However the fact that they have based what they believe in on the bible shows at least that they are trying to do what they believe is right and what God has told them and what they are supposed to do. Alternatively, modern missionaries might also agree with the statement because, instead of trying to persuade people to join Christianity, they do good work and evangelise because they believe it’s what God wants them to do. They believe God does not need them to convince others to join Christianity but just to spread his word to everybody because they are all one in Jesus Christ no matter what their faith is and as long as they keep spreading the gospel rather than using it to encourage people to join their faith they are doing what God wants and if people do convert to Christianity because of it then it has been their choice to do so. I think this is a much better view of what a missionary should do because it means they can still spread the word of God to people who might need to know about it so it can help them and they can still do the good work that God wants them to but they are not trying to be bias to any religion and they do not take away anybodies right to choose the way that they feel or believe. Atheists do not believe in any religion or God which is why some people may believe that they need to be persuaded to a become religious because they  think everyone needs to believe in God or a God and everyone needs to have a faith. However I don’t think that atheists would want to have anybody trying to persuade them to join their faith because they do not think any God exists. They may also argue to people who say that everyone has to have a faith that their faith is that they believe that the Wholly Other is not real. They would probably agree with the statement if people have chosen what they want to believe in then people should accept what they have chosen. Overall I agree with what the statement says because it is everyone’s human right to have a choice about everything they believe and other people trying to change that shouldn’t happen.

My First Summer In The Sierra By John Muir Essay

John Muir’s view of the sierras was filled with the high, cool, and green pastures of the peaking mountains, with forest belts that show the melting snow, and with shining streams to be crossed. The foothills show bushes, trees (usually oak trees), and slate. There were Sabine pines that peak from the southwest side, along small fields and vineyards that were marked by falls and streams. The Horseshoe bend was really glorious. As pictured, Horseshoe Bend came full in sight—a glorious wilderness that seemed to be calling with a thousand songful voices. Bold, down-seeping slopes, feathered with pines and clumps of Manzanita with sunny, open spaces between them, make up most of the foreground; the middle and background present fold beyond fold of finely modeled hills and ridges rising into maintain-like masses in the divine landscape-countenance are so burned into mind and heart they surely can never grow dim. This type of view had a great impact on the flock of sheep, as it enjoyed plenty of green grass. This is shown in the following lines: â€Å"The sheep, now grassy and good-natured, slowly nibbled their way down into the valley of the North Fork. † The surrounding beauty did not only have strong impact on the flock but, most of all, to Muir: How deep our sleep last night in the mountain’s heart, beneath the trees and stars, hushed by solemn-sounding waterfalls and many small soothing voices in sweet accord whispering peace! And our first pure mountain day, warm, calm, cloudless, –how immeasurable it seems, how serenely wild! (Muir 1998, 32) For Muir, the appeal of the mountains seemed to converge down to his very soul†¦ leaving him moments of glory that touched his mind and heart for the majestic scene of nature. Later in life, Muir protected the Hetch-Hetchy Valley in a seven-year environmental struggle that centered on gaining water rights on the said valley. Muir correctly predicted that the building of a dam would be unsightly to have a lake around the perimeter; yet his struggle ended up to be a breakdown, with the signing of the Raker Act in 1913. BIBLIOGRAPHY â€Å"Hetch Hetchy Valley. † Wikipedia Online Encyclopedia (2008). Database on-line. Muir, John. My First Summer in the Sierra. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin Books, 1998.

African American Outline Essay

It happens to be common knowledge that throughout history African Americans have been oppressed, segregated, and disregarded as civil human beings. In the dawn of history Africans were regarded as animals and as such they would do the job of animals, however this paper will look at their sacrifices and fights to be treated as equals. United States Congress. (1866, April 9). Civil Rights Act. Retrieved from http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/exhibits/reconstruction/section4/section4_civrightsact1.html Amendments to the Constitution of the United States (2007)| Infoplease.com http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0749825.html#A0749838#ixzz2VD3iU0JEhttp://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0749825.html#A0749838 Abolishment of slavery.    See more: what is essay format    The abolishment of slavery brought on a war, not between two countries but a war that divided a country, one that is still spoken of today. The southern or â€Å"rebel† states rose against the President of the United States in retaliation of his and many others view that no man woman or child should be a slave. All people were created equal. Amendments to the Constitution of the United States (2007)| Infoplease.com http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0749825.html#A0749838#ixzz2VD3iU0JEhttp://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0749825.html#A0749838 (13th, 14th, and 15th amendments). Africans in politics. Although four million African American slaves were now free they had codes placed against them, the Black Codes restricted the lives and movement of these people. In order to override the codes the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments were drafted and passed. Not only was slavery abolished but all slaves were now citizens and in such race could no longer be used to prevent the vote of a person. Africans now had a voice on who was elected and soon they had African Americans running for government offices. Corbould, C. (2009) Becoming African Americans: Black Public Life in Harlem, 1919-1939 Harvard University Press. Cambridge, MA, USA. Harlem Renaissance African Americans soon were cast aside again, during the age of imperialism and leading into World War One Africans were struggling to make a life. Some fought in another war, this time not for their freedom but for the freedom from communism alongside their white counterparts. After the war ended blacks started to come together, the Harlem Renaissance was born. King, M. L. Jr. (2010) Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story. Beacon Press. Boston, MA, USA. Black power movement 1954 to 1963 America saw a strong struggle for the advancement of civil rights, equality and desegregation. From every day citizens expressing their belief in being equal to their white counterparts to lawyers fighting for the equality all had deserved. These times were pivitol in an unstable America. Not only were there these movements of civil equality and black power but also a war in a far land that many Americans were against at the time. Inventions and impact. From writers, inventors and powerful leaders throughout black history there are some that are household names and some that may be forgotten. I plan on taking a look back on those who through oppression continued to strive for better for themselves and for all. African Americans today. Not long ago segregation was prominent, civil rights were abused, racism and hate were common. Today we have CEO’s, congressmen and senators, military leaders and the President of the United States who are all African Americans. No longer considered a minority in many’s eyes, African Americans have literally built themselves from slaves to leaders and teachers.

Managing Diversity in the Workplace Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Managing Diversity in the Workplace - Essay Example Diversity is a powerful tool in the growth and success of any organization today. With the increase in globalization and technology, most organizations have become multicultural. Additionally, the economy has globalized. A case study of â€Å"All-Inclusive† Real Estate Company from where I work focuses on diversity in the workplace. An analysis on the culture of the company indicates that diversity in the workplace is inevitable. Therefore, the organization’s work force must work at benefiting from it. When an organization manages diversity well, it becomes best suited to grow. On the other hand, if diversity is not well managed, it could lead to wastage of time and resources. The company has a multicultural workforce. The heterogeneous nature of the workplace highlights complex cultural relations, unified by a common goal. Employees of the company learn the organizations culture after they are employed and after they go through orientation and training. By working unde r guidelines set up by managers and supervisors, they get to share the vision, mission and goals of the organization. Once in the organization, employees identify with shared symbols, norms and values that the organization and its managers uphold. New employees learn to adjust to the organization, whilst the organization adjusts to them. The company highly promotes diversity, which increases more social awareness and integration. Multicultural organizations which strongly support diversity experience great social integrity (Gilbert and Ones, 685-704). The company has a diverse work force, both in its top management and its support staff. A look at some of its top officials gives a better picture of how individual differences can blend perfectly to produce a highly productive workforce. The company’s managing director, Susan is Jewish American. She exhibits power and good leadership. She believes that diversity should not hinder improvements and developments in the workplace. To implement successful changes in the organization, focus should be placed on the changes and not barriers such as culture (Beer et al 291). Her philosophy is that however diverse an organization is, the goals of the organization should cement individual differences to realize a friendly working environment. She highly promotes a good working atmosphere for employees within the organization. In addition, she encourages a cordial relationship with the organization’s clients. Susan emphasizes professionalism, aimed at ensuring integrity and competence. Her leadership is based on open communication to encourage participation from employees. She liaises with employees to assess behaviors and practices. She is supportive and open minded, attributes that she encourages everyone to acquire. She works to promote confidence in the company. Susan believes in maximizing people’s potential by encouraging them to specialize in what they do best. She often refers to the idea that p roper management of diversity is advantageous in an era that emphasizes flexibility and creativity to beat competition (Cox, 50). She promotes diverse ideas by holding regular meetings with staff members to discuss any issues arising and better ways of doing things. She understands her employees and has a unique relationship with all of them. If

Faulkner, Absalom Absalom Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Faulkner, Absalom Absalom - Essay Example Though this method allows the reader to see differing points of view, as well as examine the contribution of memory to the myth-making process as the story is told and retold, it raises the issue about how personal experience has a bending effect on memory and narrative. Speculation, guesswork, and alleged fact all play roles in the narrative process – with the accompanying contradictions in logic – leading us to wonder about a larger question – what is the actual truth, and whether truth can only be relative and selective, and never absolute. It also emphasizes how narrative is understood – often not by what is literally said, but by what is hinted at or implied, and often left unsaid. Faulkner does highlight the racial issues that plagued the South before and after the Civil War in this novel, and indeed race is a central theme in most of his work. However, it is disappointing to note that none of his works present an opportunity for black characters to speak in their own voices. The story is wholly from the white point of view, which is a one-sided approach to say the least. The downfall of the novel’s protagonist, Thomas Sutpen, can be traced back to his obsession with the founding of a dynasty. The single-minded pursuit of this goal precludes Sutpen from engaging emotionally with the people around him, be the family or townspeople, and this is the cause of his descent into alcoholism, ruin, and ultimately his murder by Wash Jones, a squatter on the Sutpen plantation. While Faulkner does not try to base his novel on research and factual data, such as dates and historical incidents, it is obvious his aim is to present an equally powerful history, â€Å"a few old mouth-to-mouth tales†, based on sentiment. (Faulkner 100). Thus what we see is an emotional history of the Civil War period contrasted with the factual history of the era. Faulkner’s epic novel mirrors the unsure feelings of love and hate, most Southerners, including

Networkinh Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Networkinh - Assignment Example In this scenario, they need to implement a computer network. This report discusses the scenario of Sally and John’s business, as they are running their business without having a proper computer network. This report suggests ways that can be adopted to improve their business capabilities. Introduction A computer network consists of a set of a number of parts which include hardware, software, and computers and all these parts are connected with each other using a wired or wireless medium to help business workers work in cooperation. Additionally, a network is established using particular cabling systems, software, communication medium and devices which deal with data traffic. Hence, a computer network allows its users to share files such as MS Word documents and resource such as scanners and printers, and transmits messages and data files electronically (or email) to each other (TechsChange, 2010; Nash, 2000; Norton, 2001; Turban et al., 2005). This report discusses the concept of networking in the context of Sally and John’s business. They are running their business without having a network support so they are facing several problems in managing their business tasks. This report guides them regarding the establishment of an effective network structure. Problem Analysis and Proposed Solution Up till now John and Sally have been using traditional approaches to run and manage their business process. In view of the fact that their business is growing rapidly and there is a need for an effective communication structure in order to deal with growing business needs hence they need to implement a computer network. A computer network is a set of computers which are connected with each other using wired or wireless medium. In this scenario, networks which are used using wires and cables are known as wired networks. On the other hand, wireless networks use microwaves or radio waves for the communication (Mitchell, 2013; Shelly et al., 2005; Malladi & Agrawal, 2002). Some of the basic requirements and objectives of this network implementation are: John and Silly want to improve communication structure for their business The establishment of an effective data and file sharing environment Implementation of secure data access points of communication Getting a support for remote access to the network Getting the facility of remote data transfer and access mechanism Putting into practice modern data communication framework Implementing an effective data recovery and backup mechanism The implementation of a network structure which allows them to transfer and retrieve data at high speed Suggested Solution Implementation of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) In light of business needs and objectives of John and Sally, I would suggest them to implement a modern and efficient network structure for their business. In this scenario, I would suggest them to implement a virtual private network VPN. A virtual private network extends the range of a private network incorporates connections all the way through public or shared networks such as the Internet. Basically, a VPN allows users to send and receive data and files between two computers across a public or shared internetwork in a way that follows the rules and characteristics of a point-to-point private link. In addition, the

The UK Now Needs a Written Constitution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The UK Now Needs a Written Constitution - Essay Example A concise but broadly-worded constitution can help to achieve more political objectives and flexibility, but it cannot avoid conflicts between legislature and judiciary. Moreover, Britain’s integration in the European Union calls for clearer and codified legal arrangements for the country. Hence, there is the general feeling today that the UK now needs a fully written constitution. Arguments against a Written Constitution As early as the 1970s, Lord Halisham asserted that the UK required a written constitution to protect the country from a possible takeover by the communists particularly at the level of lawmaking and policy manipulation. In the view of the worldwide agenda of Soviet expansionism and ideological intrusion inside the British intelligentsia, such a possibility could not be ruled out too. However, situation changed dramatically in the 1990s, and today the communist threat does not appear to be materialistic any more. Further, the renowned legal expert Barber comments that â€Å"The United Kingdom is in the unusual position of having an unwritten constitution that works passably well—sufficiently well, at least, to allow us to consider whether we want a new constitution.† Critics of a written constitution for the UK hold that such an arrangement may lead to serious disruption of the functionality of legislature and judiciary both alike.... power to decide or enforce fix tenure parliaments5 or command how a minister should behave overriding the directives of the already existing Ministerial Code.6 7 Britain’s integration in the European Union is another important issue in this sphere. Presently, Britain has a highly undefined relationship with the EU, since the unwritten constitution provides it with an opportunity of not codifying the fundamental tenets of its foreign policy. In the case R. v Secretary of State for Transport Ex. p. Factortame (No. 2)8, the House of Lords did not effectively clarify the legal dimensions of the relationship between the British and EU legal practices. With relation to this case, the position of the UK merchant shipping legislation framework9 has been left largely unclear vis-a-vis the EU specifications. Similarly, there are certain points of conflict and confusion regarding the human rights laws10, effectiveness of European laws inside the UK11, etc. Some legal experts consider the se sorts of vagueness actually provide enough flexibility even inside the orbit of European influence and eliminate the risk of forced political choices.12 13 14 Reasons to have a Written Constitution A written constitution would not only involve codification of the existing rules and conventions but also provide with an opportunity to reform the constitutional framework of the country as a whole. A written constitution would curb the excessive powers of the Parliament and safeguard the popular interests in front of aggressive political constitutionalism. Contextually, â€Å"The realisation that parliamentarians had the power to fix their own remuneration and their evident incompetence in managing their expenses gave substance to the view that a fundamental review of our constitutional

Analysis Interpretation of Antigone by Sophocles Essay

Analysis Interpretation of Antigone by Sophocles - Essay Example In spite of this threat, Antigone is caught when she tries to bury her brother. Creon leaves Antigone to starve in a cave. And when her fianc, Haemon comes to save her, she has already hanged herself. Haemnon dies and his mother and Creon's wife, also kills herself in grief. The play Antigone is based on conflict between two laws, and forces the audience to decide whose law is greater: God's or man's Thesis Facing the characters with moral choice, Sophocles depicts that God's laws are more important for people because they reflect eternal truth and morality while man's laws are based on power and authority of the ruler only. At the beginning of the drama, Antigone breaks the law of her uncle, Creon, and decides to bury her dead brother against his orders. Sophocles portrays that characters of the play follow God's laws as a source of morality and traditions, norms and social values. In spite of the fact that every epoch creates its own values and moral rules changing our understanding about a self and life, there are some universal laws which cannot be broken. For instance, Antigone follows God's laws as the only authority of truth and moral obligations. This funeral rite had been followed for centuries and Antigone could not break this tradition.

Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Research - Essay Example The most lingering question has been whether meditation has got a certain impact that has not been explored especially by the psychologists in the western parts. It has been wondered as to whether the effectiveness of therapy in any way is changed by the application of meditation, i.e. what psychological adjustments can be made by meditating. There have been also queries on whether meditation has got any side effects as pertaining to therapy, and if yes, how this could be overcome. There are many researches that have been done concerning how therapy and meditation integrates. Therefore, by reviewing some of these literatures, it can be established that there can occur various changes in psychology, behaviors, and cognitive changes of a person, which might be beneficial in the field of therapy. These reviews would thus show that meditation is more than a relaxing technique. In essence, there are many ways in which psychotherapy and meditation can be of help to one another. The limitation of using this review is however that most of the information used has taken several years. It is thus important to look for other recent researches to see if there are any major differences that have been made. Meditation has been found to be an important tool in helping psychiatric patients in a more effective manner. This technique helps the patients to understand their mental process, and thus be in a position to control it. This study was carried out by Deatherage (1975). Deatherage concluded that this process is very effective in terms of time to the person offering the therapy, hence cost effective. In a research done by Carpenter (1977), he found that there is a lot that meditation can offer to the practice of psychotherapy. This, he said is more effective because the practice puts together relaxing and self observation among other practices. In a similar study, Shapiro & Gilbert (1978) came up with two hypotheses that showed the

A geographer assesses the impact of diamond mining on South Africa Research Paper

A geographer assesses the impact of diamond mining on South Africa - Research Paper Example Mining is South Africa (SA) started in 1880s after the discovery of diamonds on the banks of river Orange. The mining of diamonds and other metals like gold, platinum and cadmium have significantly contributed to making SA the richest nation on the African continent.The impact of diamond mining in SA is a profound phenomenon whose results can be noticed with turn of the eye. The discovery of the first diamond on the banks of river Orange saw the subsequent change of the regions name from Vooruitzigt to New Rush to Kimberly (Ritter 372). This is just an example of how diamond mining had a life changing influences on the lives of everyone in SA. The discovery of diamonds in Kimberly led to a rush or a massive migration of people from other places who came there to mine this new found treasure. According to historical records, in 1873 Kimberly became the largest and most populated town in SA just a few months after the confirmation of diamond deposits in the region. Kimberly is today kn own as a town with one of the largest holes dug by hand held tools, which has contributed to the site being named as a world heritage site by UNESCO (Sharma 132). Kimberly a city in the Northern cape of SA is nowadays better known as the historic town that pioneered the mining revolution in SA, and helped forever shape the fortunes of the country as a leading producer of precious metals and gemstones. Diamond mining, in SA, can be attributed to have had a significant impact on the lives of communities and individuals who got directly or indirectly involved with the mining activities of SA. A notable character or name that is synonymous with mining and especially diamond mining and trade in the world De Beers. The second large diamond to be discovered in Kimberly was discovered on land belonging to the De Beers brothers who later came to dominate diamond mining and trade in SA and all over the world up to this date. This was made possible by the consolidation of the small mining comp anies of time to form the De Beers Consolidated Mines which has a monopoly over diamond trade in the world up to this date (Afolayan 68). Diamond mining caused elevated levels of rural-urban migration especially of black Africans who sought employment in the mines and the great city life experience that Kimberly as the largest town in SA provided. The De Beers encouraged this rural-urban migration because it provided cheap labor that was vital to the profitable running of the mines. The urbanization of this region in SA contributed to a myriad of both negative and positive social cultural factors that were directly or indirectly affected by mining activities. A good example of a vice or social ill that can be construed to be as a direct result of mining and the miners who worked there is prostitution (Marsh 230). Women and girls from every part of SA moved to Kimberly in an effort to cash in on the gold and diamond rush that was taking place. There were other varieties of socio-cult ural ills that are usually spawned by urbanization and they were all present in Kimberly. Mining helped create a phenomenon called the status quo, which saw the establishment of classes within the society. These classes saw black Africans occupying the lowest class in that society, which was the poorest, least educated and most oppressed by the rich and educated class of mainly white people (Pitzl 141). This unequal stature in society is still present today albeit diminished or in represented differently compared to that period. Urbanization meant that people got exposed to the white man’s education which can be said to have significantly contributed SA’

People Have Become More Overly Dependent On Technology Essay

People Have Become More Overly Dependent On Technology - Essay Example â€Å"The technologies that started out as aides to our existence have become vital to our everyday lives† (Digitaltrends, 20003). The use of technology has become an integral part of a person’s life. It all starts in the morning. A lot of working adults rely on the use of an alarm clock to get up in the morning. A house needs electricity to run the different electrical devices that people have in their homes. Electricity and water are the two most utilities. Other important technological services that people rely on as part of their everyday lives are cable or satellite television, telephones, and the internet. Television has been engrained into American society since its introduction in the U.S. marketplace. Today there are approximately 115 million households that view television programming which account for 292 million people above the age of two (Nielsen, 2009). Technology has been ingrained deeply into our society. The most important technology that transformed the lives of people in the 20th century was access to reliable electricity. Electricity is needed to run most electrical appliances and gadgets. The majority of electricity in the United States comes from fossil fuels. The demand for crude oil has been on the rise during the last couple of decades which has spiral its price upward. Access to electricity is extremely important for our everyday lives. Most kitchen appliances such as ovens, microwaves, stoves, and can openers are run by either electricity or propane gas. The use of technology is imperative for people to able to cook food. A technological advancement that changed the behavior of businesses and people was the computer. The first home computer was introduced into the marketplace in 1975 by Ed Roberts (Computerhope, 2012). The computer became extremely popular during the 1990s, an era often referred to as the computer age. The reason that the

The reason salmons are overfished Essay Example for Free

The reason salmons are overfished Essay Description:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Preferred language style: English (U.S.).   This is for the resource economy class. The subject is `Why salmons are overfished and how to protect it. ` There are no special instructions. I want u guys write down the explanation of salmons first and get to the subject then. Thank u.   Salmon is a unique fish which follows a very unique lifecycle.   It has an elongated body and is covered with rounded and small scales.   Between the tail fin and the dorsal fin, a fleshy fin is present.    It belongs to the same family of fishes that certain other fishes such as trout, whitefish, etc, belong (Salmonidae).   Salmon fishes can grow to a length of 86 cms and can weigh about 3.6 kilograms.   Salmon is caught for its meat and also as game.   Salmon usually feed on smaller fishes, aquatic life and insects. The salmon are migratory in nature and hence are found in sea water and in fresh water.   It is usually found only in the northern hemisphere.   The life cycle of the salmon has really been unique in nature.   The female adult Salmon lay their eggs in rivers, ponds or lakes.   The spawn develop in the fresh water and slowly the young salmon migrate to the sea water.   In the sea and the oceans, the salmon grow up.   Once the Salmon are ready to breed, they move upstream from the seas into the rivers and towards inlands.   If the salmon cannot find their way to the sea, as the water body may be landlocked, they may grow and develop in the lake or pond it (MSN Encarta, 2007 NMFS, 2008).   The Salmon that grows up in the ocean would turn up exactly in the same place that they were born and grew up.   In order to reach the place of their birth, the salmon would have to travel upstream several hundreds or thousands of miles.   This is one of the unique characteristics of the Salmon, and only in certain areas of the world, would it be possible to move from a sea into a lake found inland.   Hence, Salmon are found only in certain parts of the world.   Another unique thing of the Salmon fish is that the adults spawn only once in their lifetime. Following their spawning, the adult male dies and this process is known as ‘semelparity’.   Depending on the characteristics of the fresh water the Salmon would be thriving in, individual characteristics are produced.   The juvenile Salmon that is actually produced would spend about one to three years in the more friendly fresh water lakes, rivers and ponds.   After this period, they would move into the oceans and the seas through the downstream of the river.   The female salmon usually produce about 3 to 5 nests during the season.   Following mating, the eggs hatch within 42 to 60 days (MSN Encarta, 2007 NMFS, 2008).   The young salmon fry that is produced would feed on the river aquatic life and plankton.   The juvenile salmon have parr marks on its body, which it would shortly lose after it enters the oceans.   They appear black in color and have white abdomen.   Initially, the salmon fish can process freshwater, and once they enter the sea, the metabolic processes in the salmon would change in such a way that it can now process seawater.   Even the mechanisms in the gills would change so that it can breathe in oxygen in seawater.   In the rivers, the salmon would be feeding on plankton and other aquatic life.   However, in the oceans, the salmon would be feeding on squids, marine fishes, amphipods, etc.   The Salmon would be remaining in the oceans for a period of 2 to 3 years.   It is usually beyond the fourth year that the salmon would be returning through the rivers to the land to spawn.   Several species of salmon would be spending their entire lifetime in the rivers and the lakes, and would not actually migrate into the seas.    Such species are known as ‘non-anadromous types’.   Sometimes although the salmon can actually migrate to the oceans during their life, some of the juveniels would remain back.   They would mate with the anadromous types.   The initial few years of the lifetime of the salmon is spent in the lakes for growing and developing.   Later they migrate to the seas and spend about half of their lifetime there.   In the last year or few months of their lifetime, the salmon would migrate from the sea to the place of birth and would spawn there (MSN Encarta, 2007 NMFS, 2008).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   During the spawning period, the salmon develop a drab color.   However, certain species of salmon may develop brighter hues.   In the mating season, the salmon have a hooked snout and their backs appear to be humped.   Usually, the salmon prefer shallow water which contain rocks and gravel for spawning, as it offers the eggs a huge amount of protection from predators.   The water in these Shallow River or lakes needs to flow rapidly.   The mating process of the salmon is very unique indeed.   One of the parents makes a nest or ‘redd’ for the fertilized eggs to develop.   The female lays down the unfertilized eggs in the bottom of the nest.   The male then releases the sperms over these eggs. Following this, the female digs up the bottom of the riverbed to ensure that the earth covers up the eggs.   During the entire process of migrating to the river from the seas, building the nests and mating, the salmon would not consume any food.   Depending on the temperature, species and the flow of the water, the eggs of the salmon would hatch anywhere between 40 to 60 days.   Once the eggs of the salmon hatch, the newborn known as ‘alevins’ stay in the nest and feed on the nutrients present in the yolk sacs attached to their bodies.   Once these nutrients get exhausted, the young salmon are known as ‘fry’ and slowly come out from the nests. They now feed on small aquatic plants, insects and debris found in the riverbeds.   The fry grow and develop in the rivers and develop vertical bars on the sides of their bodies that help in camouflage (parr).   When the juvenile salmon are about to begin their journeys into the sea, they become bright silver in color and are known as ‘smolts’.   They would spend about 2 years in the oceans where they become sexually mature in order to reproduce.   Then they would begin their journey upstream (MSN Encarta, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are slight amount of differences in the salmon found in the Pacific Ocean and in the ones found in the Atlantic Ocean.   The Pacific salmon would not return to the oceans after spawning once, but the Atlantic salmon would return upstream to their place of birth every year, breed and then return back into the ocean.   The breeding season for the Atlantic salmon is October to November.   An Atlantic salmon can live for up to 4 years, whereas a Pacific salmon can live for 4 to 5 years.   An Atlantic salmon would weigh 4 to 6 kgs in weight, and a Pacific salmon would weigh 7 to 11 kgs in weight (MSN Encarta, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Salmon are caught in fresh waters and in sea waters for their meat, both on a small scale and on a large scale.   Fishing corporations use nets in order to catch the Salmon during the spawning season.   This may vary from one geographic location to another.   Different species of salmon also migrate during different seasons of the year in order to spawn.   Huge salmon fishing activities go on along the Atlantic and the Pacific coasts of North America.   More than 60, 000 humans work in the Salmon fishing industry and more than one billion is generated as revenue.   Some of the countries that are involved in the Salmon fishing business include USA, Canada, Britain, Russia, Japan, Norway and Denmark.    These fisheries also help to grow and develop the young salmon in artificial hatcheries.   These young salmon are collected from the nests and are incubated in the hatcheries.   They are then released into the rivers ahead of time.   The hatcheries offer protection for the young salmon from their natural predators.   However, the artificial salmon have a poor genetic variety as compared to their counterparts which are breed in the natural environment.   This can make them less resistant to disease, environment hazards and genetic diseases (MSN Encarta, 2007). However, there are several issues concerning the salmon currently, as it is being overfished in several parts of the world.   50 years back, more than 2.5 million to 5 million brood salmon existed in the oceans.   In 1970’s, about 800, 000 existed, which shrunk to 300, 000 by 1996.   In the year 2007, only about 80, 000 remain the oceans.   As Salmon spend a greater proportion of their lives in fresh waters, they are a great risk that they could be overfished and thus become extinct.   Several states in the US and Canada are considering to enlist the Salmon fish as endangered or threatened under their individual Endangered Species Statues. Further, the salmon that are in the spawning process are specifically targeted as they present in the fresh waters during this period.   As the spawning salmon are targeted, there is a greatest risk that the species is in a great danger of not multiplying.   In the Sacramento River, the Chinook Salmon were very common, growing and multiplying in huge quantities.   However, today, they have almost disappeared from their natural habitat.   The regional fisheries have actually invested more than 150 million dollars in order to save the species, but nothing can be done to save the Salmon in several parts of the Sacramento River.   The government and other organizations need to act fast if anything can be done to save the salmon. People feel that either too many Salmon are being removed from the river at any given time or that the Salmon are being removed at a wrong point of time.   The remaining fish that may exist in the river are at the risk of being attacked with disease or from predators.   However, some fisherman considers that the problems lie in the ocean itself that may be providing conditions unfavorable to the Salmon.   Some fisherman also considers that Salmon are often sucked into the irrigation tubes and irrigation canals of several irrigation projects that provide water for agricultural purposes. The problem could also lie in the fact that the oceans, rivers, lakes and ponds are much more polluted than they were actually were a few decades back.   The Chinook salmon is actually protected by Local rules and regulations In San Francisco region.   A Salmon would also require proper nutrition and food in order to survive the journey to the sea.   Scientists feel that a drop in several aquatic and marine lives can directly affect the salmon. The ocean currents that actually bring in plankton and krill required for the salmon have gone out of tune since 2005.   In 2005, several salmon which actually entered the oceans have actually died due to starvation.   In a study conducted in San Francisco, it was found that only 4 out of the 200 salmon reached the oceans (that is about 2 %).   Several dams and irrigations projects have actually ruined the path of the salmon and have made them more susceptible to predators (Felicity Barringer, 2008, William K. Stevens, 1999, Ian Main, 2006). Some of the reasons as to why the salmon are reducing in number could be as follows:- There has been a sudden increase in the amount of commercial, industrial and recreational overfishing.   These seem to be a major threat to the salmon as often the young ones and the spawning ones are caught.   However, fishing can be regulated and is within the control by jurisdiction. Aquaculture has been conducted in order to save the species of extinction by raising them in a controlled environment and releasing them when they are grown up.   However, often fish which are susceptible to diseases and which can spread infectious and genetic diseases to other fishes are produced and released. Irrigations projects could hamper the progress of the salmon from their birth place to the sea and vice-versa.   Salmon can often not find their way home from the oceans.   Besides, several salmon may fall prey to several predators on the way to the oceans.   In the city of Washington itself, more than 1000 irrigation projects hamper the progress of salmon.   In certain areas fish ladders have been introduced to help the fish through their natural course.   However, in the process several fishes have become injured and are unable to continue with their onward journey. Several forest operations have caused pollutions of the rivers.   Slit from several projects have made the rivers dirty and uninhabitable.   Trees have been removed near several rivers, making it difficult fro the salmon to bear the temperatures of the water. Farming and ranching activities have added further insult to the problem of salmons.   Livestock have disturbed aquatic life and farming activities have changed the quality of the water found in rivers. Mining the riverbeds for gravel has caused a lot of problems for the salmon.   The nest containing the developing eggs and alevins has been disturbed.   Rivers are often polluted from such activities. Several cities developing near important rivers have created a lot of problems for the salmon.   Waste water from homes and industries has polluted the river water making it difficult for the salmon to survive.   River water is often diverted to homes and industries for use, thus drying up the rivers. Artificial salmon hatcheries are also causing problems for the salmon.   Hatcheries usually collect male and female adult salmon, remove their sperms and unfertilized eggs, and artificially fertilize the eggs.   The eggs are then raised artificially and young fry are produced.   These fry may be released into the environment.   However, some of the fish are returned to the hatchery unknowingly.   This can cause several problems in the quality of salmon that are ultimately produced. Several other species such as muscles, crabs, aquatic plants, weeds, etc are competing with the salmon for spaces in lakes, rivers, and sea. Several aquatic lives that are protected are multiplying at uncontrollable rates, and directly feed on the salmon, thus affecting the numbers left in the oceans. Global warming also seems to be a problem for the salmon, as they usually prefer cooler waters for breeding and spawning. Through pollution and other activities in the rivers, the levels of oxygen are reducing, making it difficult for the salmon to survive. In Several places in the world, such as Greenland and even in parts of Canada, the temperatures have drooped during severely during winter times, making it more difficult for the salmon to survive in the rivers and the seas. The population of seabirds has increased which are constant predators for salmon. (The Oregonian, 2008, Felicity Barringer, 2008, Ian Main, 2006) Protection of Salmons need to be done involving several organizations including NGO’s, Governmental organizations, local groups, tribal’s, etc.   Besides, resources have to be allocated at very stages to help recover the populations of salmons.   A separate project strategy should be developed by various stakeholders for saving the salmon.   This project strategy should have certain goals which including saving the number of the existing adult and juvenile salmons.   The project should aim at reaching a particular target within a specified timeframe. The targets of the project should be achievable.   Various stakeholders and organizations should exhibit a collaborative effort.   Immense planning and sharing of responsibilities and roles is required.   Options should also be available in case a path is not feasible.   Activities in order to m monitor the events taking place, determining the outcome of the project, developing a modified strategy, etc, also need to be determined.   Some of the measures that may be required in order to protect the salmon include:- Protecting the existent salmon adult and juvenile populations Protecting areas and forests near the rivers and lakes Imposing rules and regulations to protect the salmon Working with wildlife and fisheries groups Using research in breeding and hatchery techniques Having irrigation projects that would not affect the salmon population Using genetic engineering in hatcheries Collaborative efforts from state government, central government, local groups, NGO’s, tribal groups, etc Developing reforms in the hatcheries (Dave G. Butcher, 2001, Madrona, 2000, James L. Connaughton, 2006)          References: Council on Environmental Quality (1999). ‘President Clinton and Vice President Gore Protecting Pacific Salmon.† The White House, 3 May 2008.   http://environmentalcommons.org/salmon.html Dave G. Butcher (2001). â€Å"Protecting Our Salmon.† British Columbia University. 3 May 2008. http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/technology/sampunits/salmon.pdf Felicity Barringer (17 Mar 2008). â€Å"Chinook Salmon Vanish Without a Trace.† NY Times. 3 May 2008. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/17/science/earth/17salmon.html Ian Main (2006). â€Å"Fish Fate—Major Reasons Salmon Are in Trouble.† Ian Main. 3 May 2008. http://www.fishfirst.org/picts/documents/JLC_Salmon_Speech_1_25_06.pdf James L. Connaughton (2006). Columbia River Salmon Recovery: A Comprehensive and Collaborative Management Strategy.† White House Council on Environmental Quality. 3 May 2008. http://www-tc.pbs.org/emptyoceans/educators/activities/docs/Salmon-Scavenger-Hunt-fish-fate.pdf Madrona (2000). â€Å"A Shared Strategy for Recovery of Salmon in Puget Sound.† Draft Shared Strategy. 3 May 2008. http://www.sharedsalmonstrategy.org/files/SharedStrategyDraft10.20.00.pdf MSN Encarta. â€Å"Salmon (fish).† Microsoft. 3 May 2008. http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_761558965_2/Salmon_(fish).html NMFS. â€Å"Sockeye Salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka).† NOAA Fisheries. 3 May 2008.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/species/fish/sockeyesalmon.htm The Oregonian (17 Mar 2008). â€Å"The salmon crisis arrives.† The Oregonian. 3 May 2008. http://www.oregonlive.com/editorials/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/editorial/12055443169430.xmlcoll=7 William K. Stevens (14 September 1999). â€Å"As a Species Vanishes, No One Can Say Why.† William K. Stevens. 3 May 2008. http://www.nytimes.com/library/national/science/091499sci-animal-salmon.html More Information: http://www.grinningplanet.com/2005/06-07/overfishing-article.htm http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/library/10/3/l_103_02.html http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/769646.stm

Finite and Non-Finite Verb

Finite and Non-Finite Verb Finite and Non-Finite Verb   Learning Objectives I will learn : how to distinguish between Finite and Non-Finite Verbs Infinitives, Participles and Gerunds Introduction Read the sentences given below: I am writing. You are writing. They were writing The verbs are different in the three sentences. This is because the verb is controlled by the number, person and tense of the subject. Therefore they are finite verbs. A finite verb is controlled by the number of the subject. If the subject is singular, the verb is singular. If the subject is plural the verb is plural Example : The boy runs fast. (subject is singular) The boys run fast. (subject is plural) A finite verb is controlled by the person. Example : I go to the gymnasium on Sunday. (I First Person) He goes to the gymnasium on Sunday. (He Third Person) A finite verb is controlled by the tense. It can be in the past, present or future tense. Example : She lives in Kolkata (Present Tense) She lived in Kolkata (Past Tense) Try Your Hand 1( H3) Pick out the finite verbs in the following sentences: She kept the plates in the sink. Looking at both sides, he crossed the street. The curtain is flying in the wind. Many of us will sign the petition. They are eager to join our club. It was raining heavily when I left. Rolling stones gather no moss. I have requested him to come. I enjoy reading books. Alighting from the aircraft she switched her mobile phone on. Now read the sentences given below: I enjoy listening to music. You enjoy listening to music. They enjoy listening to music. The verb 'listening' is not controlled by the number, person and tense of the subject. Therefore it is a non-finite verb. Take a look at a few more sentences: I like to swim every evening. He likes to swim every evening They liked to swim every evening. The verb 'swim' remains unchanged whatever be the person, number and tense of the subject. On reading these sentences we see that some non-finite verbs end with -ing and some have to before them. Try Your Hand 2 (H3) Read the sentences given below and state whether the highlighted verbs are finite or non-finite: He was drawing a picture in his notebook. He wanted to draw a cartoon. Keeping her bag on the floor, she ran out. They wanted to meet the head teacher. I polish the silver ear-rings regularly. The weeping woman appealed for help. She had spoken the truth, but we had found it hard to believe her. Non -finite verbs are of three kinds : 1 Infinitives 2.Participles 3. Gerunds In this lesson we shall take up the Infinitive. Read the given sentences: I like to sing She tried to help the old man. 'To sing' and 'to find' are infinitives. The infinitive is the base form of the verb and it often has 'to' before it. Try Your Hand 3 (H3) Pick out the infinitives in the given sentences: To find fault is easy. I did not want to scare him. The best course of action would be to take leave. She phoned to speak to my father. In order to get a job he left college. He had no choice but to travel to Chennai. The young man rose to address the gathering. After certain verbs, such as bid, let, make, need, dare, see, hear, the infinitive is used without 'to' Example : Let us go for a picnic. She saw her brother win the race. He makes me read the lesson aloud. Try Your Hand 4 (H3) Pick out the infinitives in the given sentences: They need not cook today. He bid me sing a song. Let them draw whatever they want. The children saw her buy food. She is making him revise the lesson. They heard her speak to the policeman on duty. I dared not look into the room. Infinitives can be used to join sentences. Look at the examples given below. Ravi spoke the truth. He was not afraid to do so. These two sentences can be combined to form one sentence: Ravi was not afraid to speak the truth. We see that one of the main verbs 'spoke' is changed into the infinitive 'to speak' and used to combine the sentences. Take a look at another example. He remained inside the burning house. He wanted to rescue all the children. This pair of sentences will change to : He remained inside the burning house to rescue all the children. We see that an infinitive 'to rescue' which was already present in one of the sentences has been used to combine the sentences. Try Your Hand 5 (H3) Combine each pair of sentences by using an infinitive. We started running. We wanted to reach the station on time. Every school has a Principal. He decides how the school will function. The old man gave his servant one thousand rupees. He wanted to reward him for his faithful service. He is determined to attain a high post. He works day and night for that purpose. She collects old cook books from various parts of India. This is her hobby. They must write a letter of apology. That is the only way to avoid punishment. She goes to the hospital every day. She is always willing to look after needy patients. Quick Recap Finite verbs are controlled by the number, person and tense of the subject. Non-finite verbs are not controlled by the number, person and tense of the subject There are three kinds of non-finite verbs : Infinitives, Participles and Gerunds. Participles and Gerunds may be similar in form as both end with ing. Infinitives are usually preceded by 'to'. However there are infinitives that are not preceded by 'to'. Infinitives can be used to combine sentences Brush Up Your Grammar (H2) Revision 1(H3) In the following sentences pick out the finite verbs and the non-finite words. The first sentence has been done for you : Hearing the knock on the door, she ran to open it. Non- finite : Hearing Finite: ran I want you to keep the keys in the drawer. She saw the fishermen casting their nets. Rina stopped at the shop to buy something. They enjoy performing in front of a live audience. She read the instructions on how to bake a cake. I heard the man give instructions to the taxi driver. Her sparkling eyes revealed her excitement. He kept himself busy by teaching children. Please permit me to order the rest of the books Revision 2 (H3) Fill in the blanks with appropriate non-finite verbs: I decided _____ out of the hotel and take a walk. Suddenly a number of monkeys surrounded me and began ____ my purse away. ____ here and there for help, I spotted a banana seller who was setting up his stall. I waved to him and bade him _____ towards me. _____ about two dozen bananas he hurried forwards. I saw him ____ the bananas on the ground. Then he began ____ their attention by making clicking sounds. _________ my bag the monkeys rushed towards him. I made my escape but came back later______ him and ______ for the bananas. Revision 3 (H3) Work in pairs. One of you will ask the question the other will give the answer with the help of the clues in brackets. The first one has been done for you : Why did you go out? (buy some fruits) I went out to buy some fruits Why are you standing here? (greet the Chief Guest) Why will Rajni go to Chennai? (visit her aunt) Why did you sell your car? (buy a car) Why did you travel by plane? (save time) Why did you go to the bazaar? (buy grocery) Why did you spend an extra hour in school? (practise football) Why are you going to College Street? (buy second hand books) Revision 4(H3) Complete the sentences using the correct non-finite form of the verb given in brackets: I am sorry for ________ (speak) rudely to you. It gives me great pleasure ________ (inform) you that you have been selected. I want to start now _______ (complete) the project on time. I shall continue ______ (run) early in the morning. It was rude of him ______ (scream) at his mother. I must stop ______ (give) advice to every one. I almost came under the wheels of the _____ (speed) bus Try This 1 Make a list of 4 things that you enjoy doing Looking at the starry sky __________________ _________________- _________________ _________________ Now, make a list of things you must remember to do in the coming week To cover my text books __________ __________ __________ __________ Try This 2 Use non-finites to write a dialogue between two friends about a three day camping trip that both will be going for. You could begin like this : Seema : I am going for the school camping trip. Wendy : So will I. In fact I saw you write your name on the list. Seema : I have decided to take my transistor. Carrying it will be no problem.

Every Tourist Is A Voyeuring Gourmand Tourism Essay

Every Tourist Is A Voyeuring Gourmand Tourism Essay This chapter will continue on from chapter two and aims to discuss in detail the culinary tourist. The researcher will define the term culinary tourist and explain how these types of tourists can be categorised. This chapter will also outline the issues facing sustainable tourism and authenticity in relation to food tourism and the culinary tourist. Furthermore, the researcher will highlight the Travel Activities and Motivation Survey (TAMS) which is considered to be the most comprehensive profiles available of culinary tourists. Finally, the researcher will investigate the culinary tourist in Ireland. Although data is scarce in relation to the Irish culinary tourism industry, a Mintel report which was published in 2009 provides some knowledge into both the international and Irish tourists who holiday in Ireland. Eating is one of our most basic physiological needs even when outside our usual environment (Tikkanen 2007). Yet, information on food tourism and the culinary tourist appears rare. Chapter two outlined the fact that food is a very much overlooked element of tourism literature (Selwood 2003). As a result of this lack of direct research into food tourism, there are few insights into the demographic and psychographic characteristics of food tourists (Wolf 2006), and those insights that do exist are considered by Hall et al (2003) to be largely superficial. Murray (2008) agrees and states that terms such as food tourism or the culinary tourist could be used in ways which are misleading and, as a result, may cause inappropriate decisions to be made by tourism planners and operators. Murray (2008) suggests that once culinary tourism has been identified as a potential avenue to pursue, the natural tendency is to identify the market, and that leads immediately to segmentation. However, some tourists may be culinary enthusiasts rather than culinary tourists, and although interested in food, culinary activities are not the main purpose of travel for these types of tourists (Murray 2008). In spite of the recognition that little is still known about either the food buying-behaviour of tourists or of the role it plays in the overall travel decision, destinations are increasingly using food as a means to differentiate themselves and broaden their market base (Hall et al 2003; McKercher, Okumus, and Okumus 2008). As previously discussed, food is an important tourist attraction and enhances or is central to the visitor experience (Henderson 2009). For many, food becomes highly experiential (i.e. much more than functional) when it is part of a travel experience, it can become sensuous and sensual, symbolic and ritualistic, and can take on new significance and meaning (Hall et al 2003, p.61). Long suggests that the culinary tourist anticipates a change in the foodways experience for the sake of experiencing that change, not merely to satisfy hunger (Long 2004, p.21). Longs definition implies that intentionality is required whereas Wolf (2006, p.2) proposes a more lenient def inition; the true culinary tourist is not a snob, but rather an explorer who also happens to be an impassioned aficionado of food and drink. Therefore, the culinary tourist could be defined as loosely as someone who appreciates local food or someone who spends time in a grocery store in a foreign country. Due to broad definitions such as this, one could acknowledge why research on culinary tourists is rare. The Culinary Tourism in Ontario (2005-2015) Strategy and Action Plan makes a very noble attempt to differentiate between tourists with intentionality and those who are better described as enthusiasts. The Action Plan illustrates culinary tourism markets being broken down by an understanding of what motivates the traveller: Primary Travellers whose main focus and intent is for a culinary tourism experience. Secondary Travellers whose focus on culinary tourism is shared with another tourism motivator such as golf, shopping, visiting family and friends. However, culinary tourism is part of their itinerary. Tertiary Travellers whose itinerary or motivators does not include culinary tourism. Culinary tourism experience is impromptu or ad hoc to their original intent (Culinary Tourism in Ontario (2005-2015) Strategy and Action Plan, p.21). 3.3 Location, Sustainable Tourism and Authenticity Sims (2009) remarks on the growing body of research which is beginning to prove that sensations of taste, touch, sound and smell can play an important role within the holiday experience, adding that holiday food is becoming of particular importance to researchers (Sims 2009, p.321). Crotts and Kivela (2006, p.355) agree and cite that our sensory perceptions play a major psychological and physiological role in our appraisal and appreciation of food, as they do for other experiences at a destination. Dining out is a pleasurable sensory experience, hence, the feel good factor which tourists experience as a result of food consumption at a destination is a pull factor and a marketing and merchandising tool that cannot be underestimated (Crotts and Kivela 2006, p.355). For this reason, one can argue that tourists often place considerable emphasis on how they feel at a destination, and how they experience what the destination offers, by carefully selecting that special restaurant and/or foo d that might fulfil a particular personal desire (Crotts and Kivela 2006). Although many studies identify and address factors that affect destination choice and image, very few empirical studies address the role that food plays in the way tourists experience the destination. Dining habits can also provide an insight into ways of life, helping tourists understand the differences between their own culture and those with which they come into contact with (Hegarty and OMahoney 2001). However, it must be acknowledged that the variety of foods on offer at a destination can have major implications for the economic, cultural and environmental sustainability of that tourism location, with researchers arguing that a focus on locally sourced products can result in benefits for both the hosts and the culinary tourists (Clark and Chabrel 2007; Sims 2009). Sims (2009, p.322) argues that local food and drink products can improve the economic and environmental sustainability of both tourism and the rural host community through encouraging sustainable agricultural practices, supporting local businesses and building a brand that can benefit the region by attracting more visitors and investment. Furthermore, Sims (2009) explains that local food can play an important role in the sustainable tourism experience because it appeals to the visitors desire for authenticity within the holiday experience. At present, there is a trend towards universal standardisation and homogenisation, which is demonstrated by the spread of fast food chains (Henderson 2009; Keel 2010). Concurrently, tourists are becoming more adventurous and are open to new food experiences (Daniele and Scarpato 2003; Henderson 2009). Many culinary tourists are also seeking genuine and authentic which can be found in local foods and eating-places (Henderson 2009). Therefore, one can conclude that tourist destinations could successfully differentiate from other locations through local authentic food. As explained above, authentic food consumption at a destination creates a pull factor for the consumer (Crotts and Kivela 2006, p.355). Furthermore, increasing tourist consumption of local foods can generate a multiplier effect that will benefit the local economy and provide a boost to rural destinations looking to develop a sustainable tourism industry (Sims 2009; Torres, 2002). In addition, concerns about the environmental consequences of transporting food across the globe have led researchers to argue that buying local food products is vital if the tourism industry is to reduce its carbon footprint (Mitchell and Hall 2003; Sims 2009). In Rebecca Sims (2009) article titled Food, place and authenticity, she studied ho w local food has the potential to enhance the visitor experience by connecting consumers to the region and its perceived culture and heritage. She focused on two UK regions for her report, the Lake District and Exmoor. Her results illustrated that over 60% of the tourists interviewed said that they had deliberately chosen to consume foods or drinks that they considered local while on holiday which suggests that, tourists are seeking products that they feel will give them an insight into the nature of a place and its people Sims (2009, p.329). However, this demand for local food could also be viewed as a search for authenticity. Over 50% of the tourists interviewed in this study said that they had bought, or were definitely planning to buy, food and drink as souvenirs of their holiday, with less than 10% saying that they were not interested in doing so (Sims 2009, p.328). The souvenir purchasers varied in their levels of enthusiasm, from reluctant buyers who felt compelled to buy sma ll gifts for family or colleagues, to one enthusiastic couple who, while visiting Exmoor, had spent  £60 on specialist tea and coffee by a renowned local tea merchant in addition to the usual stuff like fudge (Sims 2009, p.328). Tikkanen (2007) concurs with Sims (2009) and relates food tourism to Maslows hierarchy. Tikkanen (2007, p.725) identifies five approaches to food with respect to motivation for a visit. These five approaches are food as a tourist attraction, foodstuffs as a tourist product component, food experience in tourism, the role of food in culture and linkages between tourism and food production. This approach to the theory surrounding the culinary tourist demonstrates that food consumption is regarded as one of the most important factors in the marketing of a destination (Tikkanen 2007). Hence, food and tourism are increasingly combined. Food can draw a person towards or back to a holiday destination, plus more and more food products are now bought as souvenirs, which, if managed correctly could result in benefits for both the hosts and the culinary tourists. 3.4 Travel Activities and Motivation Survey While few demographic and psychographic data exist to draw a comprehensive picture of the typical culinary tourist, one major study conducted in Canada can provide some insight. In April 2001, the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) released the Travel Activities and Motivation Survey (TAMS), Wine and Cuisine Profile Report which is considered to be one of the most comprehensive profiles available of culinary tourists. This survey offers a comprehensive assessment of travel behaviour and motivators and provides a rich and authoritative database by which to develop future marketing strategies. According to this report, both young and mature singles along with young and mature couples were most likely to exhibit an interest in holiday activities associated with food and wine (TAMS 2001). Interest in such activities also increased as the level of education and household income increased (TAMS 2001). While this information represented Canadian travellers, the results for US travellers were extremely similar. The report did not break down travellers by specific age groups but rather categorises travellers as young or mature. The report found a high correlation between culinary tourists and exploration (TAMS 2001). This concurs with Wolfs (2006) definition above and suggests that culinary tourists are explorers. Those who exhibit an interest in vacation activities associated with wine and cuisine were considerably more likely to have sought out vacation experiences associated with exploration (e.g., visiting historical sites, natural wonders), personal indulgence (e.g., to experience the good life, visiting a casino, experiencing city life such as night life) and romance and relaxation (e.g., experience intimacy and romance, relax and recuperate) (TAMS 2001, p.19). A more recent TAMS, based again on the Canadian and US markets was published in 2007. The survey revealed that 37% (or 7.7 million) of Canadian travellers and 33% (or 58.6 million) of American travellers wer e wine and cuisine enthusiasts, exhibiting either a moderate or high interest in wine and cuisine-related activities while on trips during the years 2005-2007 (TAMS 2007a; TAMS 2007b). Similar to the 2001 survey mature (35-64 years old) couples and families (those with kids) were more likely to be interested in wine and cuisine-related activities. Young couples (less than 35 years old) and senior couples (over 64 years old), though to a lesser extent, were also actively engaged in activities associated with wine and cuisine (TAMS 2007a). Once again the 2007 report shows a strong association between tourists with an interest in wine and cuisine with increasing levels of education and household income (TAMS 2007a; TAMS 2007b). Also interesting to note is the fact that wine and cuisine enthusiasts were frequent travellers, taking an average of 4.1 trips between 2004 and 2005 versus 3.2 trips for other travellers (TAMS 2007a; TAMS 2007b). Relative to other travellers, wine and culinary tourists had a higher tendency to consult a large number of information sources when they were planning trips. Using the internet (86%), considering their own past experiences (63%) and taking advice from friends and relatives (55%) were the most popular information sources (TAMS 2007a). They were also more likely to read the travel section of daily and weekend newspapers and to surf travel-related websites than other travellers (TAMS 2007a; TAMS 2007b). It must be noted that this report evaluated the demographic behaviour of Canadian and American culinary tourists; therefore, an opportunity exists to investigate whether culinary tourists from other countries share similar demographic and psychographic traits. 3.5 The Culinary Tourist in Ireland As explained above, studies into the demographic and psychographic characteristics of food tourists are in the minority. While the TAMS provide an insight into American and Canadian tourists, a Mintel report which was published in 2009 provides some knowledge into both international and Irish tourists who holiday in Ireland. Among Irish tourists, quality is the most important factor for food. Availability of local produce is also significant, it is however recognised that these factors result is a premium price for food and so are most appealing among the older and more affluent consumers (Mintel 2009). Mintel (2009) reported that younger adults and those from lower socio-economic groups were more price sensitive while holidaying in Ireland, therefore, low cost fast-food appeals to this segment, making them less important for the food tourism market. This study stated that the most likely consumers to visit fine dining and local independent restaurants, and those most likely to show a keen interest in food while holidaying in Ireland are those aged 35 to 64, and those that fall under the upper middle class, middle class, lower middle class (ABC1) age bracket. These age groups are fortunately the fastest growing in Irish society and forecasted to make up the largest segment of the Irish population for the next decade. In terms of broader tourism trends, it is consumers from these age and socio-economic categories that are most likely to visit Ireland from abroad, and are the most likely to stay in Ireland from the Irish population. Irish culinary tourists have become of particular importance during the current economic climate as many Irish consumers are now considering holidaying at home rather than going abroad. Furthermore, this report stated that the internet is the most widely used source by tourists for both bookings and see king information prior to taking a holiday or short break within Ireland. This presents a strong portal for the promotion of the Irish food tourism industry through tourist authority websites such as Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland. At present, these websites provide little or no information about food in Ireland. However, it should be noted that many older consumers have been slow to adopt to the internet, and given that these consumers form the key groups for food tourism, traditional channels should not be abandoned. Also mentioned in the report was Irelands à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬200 million festival sector, another key channel for the food tourism industry, which has a large portion dedicated to food and drink. Guides such as the Michelin guide, the Michelin Pub Guide, and the Bridgestone Guide are seen as exceptionally influential on consumers choices. Positive online reviews also have an influence as more consumers than ever use the internet. Mintel (2009) acknowledge a the trend that Irish and UK consumers have a growing affinity with food, with broadening tastes and a renewed appreciation for local ingredients and modern takes on traditional dishes, as seen with the growth of farmers markets and artisan food producers. Much of this revival and new interest in food has been driven by the media with channels like Channel 4, the BBC and RTÉ using primetime slots for cooking and food interest programmes. Ratings figures from the Broadcasters Audience Research Board for the first quarter of 2009 show that some of the more popular cooking programmes are among the top five highest viewed shows, particularly Masterchef on BBC and programmes featuring celebrity chefs like Heston Blumenthal and Gordon Ramsay on Channel 4. However, due to the current economic crisis, a growing number of people are eating and entertaining at home, and television has become a highly influential forum for promoting good quality food. Although this may have taken somewhat from the restaurant industry, this is in turn creating potential for cookery schools. With the growing interest in food, and the growing number of people entertaining at home there are positive signals for cooking schools, particularly within the domestic tourism arena. However, the cooking courses at these centres are relatively expensive compared to other holiday activities and in recessionary times, luxuries such as these may be less accessible if pricing strategies are not reviewed. Although this report portrayed a positive perspective for the Irish food tourism market, value for money remains a major factor hindering the development of culinary tourism in Ireland. As discussed in Chapter 2, there are issues regarding the perception that Irish food is expensive, service related issues, Irish food cost issues and the lack of innovation among food producers (Coughlan 2009). The report suggests that the government has dedicated a significant amount of funding toward promoting tourism; however, high taxes are affecting competitiveness. Failte Ireland found that although nearly 98% of tourists would recommend visiting Ireland, 19% of these had some reservations. Of this 19%, 26% stated that their main reservation was the high prices in Ireland (Failte Ireland 2010). In addition to this is the concern that not enough emphasis is being placed on promoting Ireland as a food tourism destination (Mintel 2009). These issues must be addressed if Ireland is to be perceived as a desired destination for the culinary tourist. 3.6 Summary The literature reveals that there are few insights into the demographic and psychographic characteristics of food tourists. Yet, eating is one of our most basic physiological needs even when outside our usual environment. Hence, everyone needs to eat. Therefore, it is difficult to define and describe the culinary tourist. Moreover, some tourists may be culinary enthusiasts rather than culinary tourists, and although interested in food, culinary activities are not the main purpose of travel for these categories of tourists. However, for some tourists, food becomes highly experiential and consumers are increasingly aware of the benefits (economic, environmental and health related) of local produce, and there is an increased desire to sample local dishes, foodstuffs and drink. Although, there is little known about either the food buying-behaviour of tourists or of the role it plays in the overall travel decision, destinations are increasingly using food as a means to differentiate themselves and broaden their market base. From this discussion of the literature, it can be seen that local food has the potential to play a central role within the tourism experience. There is a renewed interest in local food and drinks festivals, as well as an increased interest in local markets as tourists seek out authentic food experiences. These local food and drink products can improve the economic and environmental sustainability of both tourism and the rural host community. This chapter also discussed TAMS which is considered to be one of the most comprehensive profiles available of culinary tourists. This survey offers a comprehensive assessment of travel behaviour and motivators and provides a rich and authoritative database by which to develop future marketing strateg ies. Furthermore, an insight into the both the international and Irish tourists who holiday in Ireland was provided using a a Mintel report which was published in 2009. As suggested in the above section, food tourism is a possible competitive advantage and it can be a core element in the branding of a country or destination by marketers. Domestic and international visitors are becoming more adventurous and open to new experiences overall and with specific reference to food. Many are also looking for the genuine and authentic, which, it is believed, can be found in local foods and eating-places (Reynolds, 1993).

Artists Should not be Resposible for Explicit Lyrics and their Impact on Kids :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Artists Should not be Resposible for Explicit Lyrics and their Impact on Kids "Turn that music off! I don't want you listening to that kind of music." Many teens these days are experiencing this kind of thing almost every day. Many parents, in general, have complained and tried to regulate the music that teens are listening to these days. They complain that the music industry shouldn't be able to sell and produce the explicit CD's. The music industry gets a lot of criticism about the music that they put out on the market. Most of the criticism comes from the parents. There are bills passed, such as the "Parental Advisory Program," which enforce that CD's with explicit lyrics have to have a label on them that state, "Explicit Lyrics" or "Explicit Content" (Parental Advisory). This sticker cautions the person who buys the CD that there is bad language or content. The recording industry takes serious responsibility to help parents identify the music with explicit lyrics. The battle between the parents and the music industry still continue to this day. The Parents' Music Resource Center (PMRC) still thinks that there should be more of a regulation on the music than what there is now. "The 'gangsta rap' is just to vulgar for young teens to be listening to. It brainwashes them and sometimes even persuade them to do unlawful things" (Hip-Hop Lyrics). On the other hand the music industry has the "Parental Advisory Program." Therefore if the CD's with the explicit lyrics were restricted in any way it would bring unconstitutional restrictions on the First Amendment right of artists to express themselves freely, and their fans' right to hear what the artists express whatever the subject might be" (Explicit Lyrics). Many say, "What about 'Cop Killer' doesn't that depict that they go out and gunning down cops as a hobby of some sort." Rapper Ice-T himself comes back with, "'Cop Killer' is a work of musical fiction used in the hip-hop world" (Hip-Hop Lyr ics). Some people argue that the explicit lyrics label actually boosts the sales by drawing attention to the labeled album. "Warning labels sell albums. A lot of groups want warning labels" (Between...Place). Many believe that stores should have more of a restriction on which they sell the explicit CD too.

Slavery Is The South Essay -- essays research papers

Slavery is the South Essay #3 Slavery played a dominating and critical role in much of Southern life. In the struggle for control in America, slavery was the South’s stronghold and the hidden motive behind many political actions and economic statistics. By dominating Southern life, slavery also dominated the economic and political aspects of life in the South from 1840 to 1860. By the 1840’s and 50’s the Southern economy had almost completely become slave and cash crop agriculture based. Without slaves in the south a person was left either landless and penniless or struggling to get by on a small farm. However, even though slaves dominated the southern economy, slaveholders only included about 2 to 3 percent of the population. This small percentage was the amount of people successful in a slave based, cash crop agricultural, Southern economy. Therefore, the Southern economy was controlled and dominated by those who did and did not have slaves. Furthermore, with t he high demand for Southern items in Europe and Northern America more slaves were needed in the South to produce these cash crops. Without slaves there would be no cotton, tobacco, or sugar production and without these integral items the Southern economy would absolutely fail. The South depended on slaves to fuel their economy and therefore slavery dominated their economy. Between 1840 and 1860 many political issues, debates, and actions were inflamed by slavery. As America grew, the South wanted more slave states...

Hbr Cases Csr Outsourcing in Tangers 2 P

CASE STUDY: Multinational Outsourcing and CSR. Inditex: The worldwide outsourcing garment industry and social community development in Morocco Intermon claims that pressures on foreign clothing suppliers are smothering employees. [†¦]  In Morocco, where Cortefiel, Inditex Zara), Mango and Induyco El Corte Ingles)manufacture their products, a Tangier based textile factory sold a pair of slacks to large Spanish retailers for 3.3 euros three years ago; today, the same item sells for 2 euros. Female factory workers work 12 to 16 hours a day during the high season, because orders from Spain demand six ? ay delivery  terms  in  order  to  suit  shop  window  change  schedules. † (El  Pais  Newspaper,  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Mujeres  en  Aprietos†,  10  ? 02  ? 2004) towards  process  outsourcing  that  responded  to  its  characteristic  labor  ? intensive  production and current competitive pressures for cost reduction and flexibili ty. Sector companies had been  forced  to  redesign  their  business  strategies,  focusing  on  performance  measurement,  new competence and skill development, product quality improvements and more strategically oriented  human  resources  management.Yet,  this  new  strategic  focus  entailed  unprecedented   risks,   especially   as   regards   labor   practices,   environmental   care   and   unfair   competition. As   multinational  companies  embarked  on  this  process,  multilateral  agencies  and  global  NGOs  had   begun  to  look  into  and  report  on  wrongful  practices  by  large  corporations,  significantly  calling   the  attention  of  increasingly  sensitive  and  aware  consumers  and  customers. Global  society  was   urging  apparel  industry  players  to  adopt  a  more  responsible  attitude  to   be  embraced  by  their   entire  business  value  chain,  including  vendors  and  outsourced  suppliers.Thus,  Inditex  was  held   responsible  for  what  went  on  at  outsourcing  shop  s  owned  by  Moroccan,  Peruvian,  Chinese  or Indian  businessmen. This  was  precisely  why  Javier  Chercoles,  Social  Responsibility  Department   director   at   Inditex,   was   losing   sleep:   how   could   they   know   for   sure   what   happened   in   over   1,800  outsourcing  shops  scattered  all  around  the  world? Introduction It   was   early   in   October   2005,   and   the   date   set   for   the   next   Social   Council   meeting   was   fast   approaching. This   advisory   body   provided   counsel   to   Inditex   Group   on   corporate   social   responsibility   (hence   CSR)à ‚   issues.The   upcoming   meeting   would   assess   the   CSR   policies   and   programs  the  Group  was  developing. The  textile  industry  in  general  and  Inditex  ? as  an  industry   leader  ? in  particular  were  facing  complex  social  challenges  that  affected  not  only  their  image   and   reputation   but   their   operations   as   well. Inditex   CSR   strategy   had   emerged   largely   in   response   to   these   challenging   issues. The   time   had   come   to   evaluate   this   strategy’s   impact,   especially   focusing   on   outsourced   shops,   in   order   to   outline   a   future   course   of   action.Specifically,   Inditex   had   launched   a   program   in   Tangier   and   needed   to   assess   this   experience   and   find   a   way   to   incorporate   it   into   the   Group’s   global   strategy. At   the   same   time,   Javier   Chercoles  wondered  what  options  were  available  for  social  intervention  in  developing  nations. What  were  the  limits  to  the  company’s  social  responsibility? Should  Inditex  strive  to  ensure  the   wellbeing  of  its  suppliers’  workers? He  also  pondered  the  visibility  issue  :  Should  the  company   communicate   its   CSR   efforts   openly,   or   should   it   pursue   a   more   â€Å"   subtle†,   low   ? profile   approach?In  recent  years,  the  textile  industry  had  become  highly  globalized  as  a  result  of  a  strong  trend   1 Inditex  Group  Evolution By  late  2005,  Spain’s  Inditex  (Industria  de  Diseno  Textil)  Group,  owner  of  several  retail  brands   including   Zara,   Pull   and   Bear,   Massimo   Dutti, Bershka,   Stradivarius,   Oysho,   Zara   Home   and   Kiddy’s  Class,  was  a  world  leader  in  its  sector,  with  more  than  2,600  stores  in  62  countries. The   first   Zara   store   was   inaugurated   in   La   Coruna,   Spain,   in   1975. Since   then,   the   company   had   opened  stores  in  over  400  cities  in  Europe,  the  Americas,  Asia  and  Africa.Inditex  engulfed  eight  retail  chains  with  broad  international  presence. The  group  also  included   other   companies   associated   with   apparel   business   design,   manufacturing   and   distribution   operations. Group  figures  show  that  Zara,  its  oldest  and  most  internationally  expanded  chain,   accounted  for  70%  of  its  overall  business,  with  724  stores  located  in  54  countries. Europe  was   Inditex’s  core  business  focus,  featuring  1,945  stores  that  grossed  over  80%  of  its  total  sales. In   2005,   the   more   than   1,000   stores   located   outside   Spain   accounted   for   57. %   of   the   group’s   sales,   and   stores   were   opened   in   four   new   markets:   Slovenia,   Slovakia,   Russia   and   Malaysia. Most  Inditex  stores  were  wholly  ? owned  and  managed  by  the  company;  franchises  were  only   2 used  for  12%  of  the  group’s  points  of  sale,  contributing  10%  to  total  store  sales  from  all  chains. Inditex  had  experienced  significant  growth  over  the  past  few  years,  posting  a  net  income  of  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚   628  million  on  consolidated  revenues  of  Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  5. 67  billion  in  2004. As  of  December  31,  2005,  the   group  had  an  overall  headcount  of  58,190  employees.Amancio   Ortega   Gaona,   founder   of   Inditex,   started   his   first   apparel   manufacturing   factory,   Confecciones   Goa,   in   1963. Soon   he   developed   an   interest   for   retailing   and   opened   the   first   Zara   S. A. store,   which   became   his   first   retail   and   distribution   company. Since   inception,   Zara   was   positioned   as   a   store   selling   quality   fashion   clothing   at   reasonable   prices. By   the   end   of   the   1970s,   there   were   half   a   dozen   Zara   stores   in   Galicia,   Spain. In   1985,   Inditex   S. A. was   established   as   a   holding   company   atop   Zara.Since   then,   its   expansion   gathered   momentum: the  first  store  outside  Spain  was  opened  in  1988  (in  Portugal),  and,  between  1989  and  1998,   the   company   expanded   to   18   additional   countries,   developing   or   acquiring   other   fashion   brands,  such  as  Pull  and  Bear  and  Massimo  Dutti. Throughout  this  process,  the  Group  underwent  deep  structural  changes  and  went  from  being   an  exclusively  Spain  ? based  producing  chain  in  1980  to  deploying,  by  2005,  company  audited   and  certified  production  centers  and  providers  in  the  Americas,  Africa,  Europe  and  Asia.This   new   scheme   posed   new   challenges   for   Inditex,   especially   in   terms   of   labor,à ‚   social   and   economic   concerns   regarding   its   employees,   its   suppliers   and   outsourcing   shops,   as   the   company   struggled   to   uphold   the   values   and   principles   inspiring   the   Group’s   CSR   strategies. Zara  was  a  successful  store,  and  success  brings  visibility. For  several,  reasons,  both  the  media   and  the  NGO  community  had  their  eyes  set  on  Zara,  a  fact  the  company  could  not  ignore. culture  based  on  ethics  and  respect  and  translate  into  more  than  just  aesthetic  moves.So,  is   Inditex  really  and  globally  committed  to  CSR? (Press  release  by  SETEM  NGO,  June  15,  2004)      In  1992,  Levi’s,  a  U. S. apparel  company,  was  accused  of  selling  jeans  manufactured  by  Chinese    immigrants  working  in  slavery  ? like  conditions. In  1994,  Kukdong,  a  Nike  and  Reebok  supplier,   was  charged  for  violating  labor  standards  by  hiring  minors  to  work  up  to  10  hours  a  day  and   allowing  verbal  and  physical  employee  abuses. In  1998,  charges  were  brought  against  Adidas   for  forcing  prison  inmates  in  China  to  work  in  despicable  conditions.These   precedents   had   driven   large   textile   companies   all   over   the   world   to   adopt   socially   responsible   strategies   and   policies. Industry   leaders,   like   Nike,   H&M,   Benetton   and   Gap,   had   developed   and   published   codes   of   conduct   that   included   their commitment   to   observe   and   enforce   legal   labor   practices   and   the   principles   contained   in   the   Universal   Declaration   of   Human  Rights  both  at  their  own  production  plants  as  well  as  their  suppliers’. This  implied  the   adoption   of   specific   practices,   such   as   inspection,   audit   and   evaluation   mechanisms   for   outsourcing  shops.However,   many   NGOs   were   still   quite   skeptical   when   it   came   to   textile   industry   practices. Especially   noteworthy   in   this   regard   was   the   Clean   Clothes   Campaign,1   an   organization   that   originated   in   Holland   in   1984   and,   by   2004,   had   already   turned   into   an   informal   NGO   and   union   network   spanning   throughout   the   world. It   was   devoted   to   pressing   apparel   multinationals  to  ensure  all  their   products  and  services  were  produced  in  accordance  with  fair   labor  policies,  as  well  as  to  raising  consumer  awareness  on  industry  abuses.The  Clean  Clothes   Campaign  had  such  a  vast  impact  in  Europe  that,  in  1997,  the  European  Parliament  praised  its   work  and  recommended  the  European  Commission  to  explicitly  support  this  organization. In  Spain,  the  Clean  Clothes  Campaign  had  been  initially  led  by  Setem,  a  Spanish  development   NGO,  and  later  by  Intermon  Oxfam,  a  larger,  more  established  organization. Both  had  adopted   differing   strategies   in   their   dealings   with   the   industry:   while   Setem   pursued   an   ongoing   and   outspoken   advocacy   strategy,   especially   in   the   case   of   Inditex,    Intermon   ?Oxfam   preferred   a   more   collaborative   approach   to   both   the   entire   industry   and   Inditex   in   particular. In   2001,   4 Stakeholders’  Reaction  to  Inditex  CSR  Strategy â€Å"Arteixo. ?  SETEM,  NGO  that  coordinates  the  Clean  Clothes  Campaign,  will  attend  the  textile   Inditex  Group’s  General  Shareholders’  Meeting,  to  be  held  tomorrow  at  Arteixo  in  La  Coruna,  in   order  to  question  company  officials  on  primary  issues,  such  as  its  Code  of  Co duct’s  failure  to   refer  to  International  Labor  Organization  (ILO)  standards  and  the  right  to  a  fair  wage. Since  the   creation   of   the   Inditex   Corporate   Social   Responsibility   Department,   SETEM   ? Clean   Clothes   Campaign   has   monitored   the   company’s   commitment   to   labor   rights,   purchasing   practices,   management   transparence,   etc. ?   in   short,   all   the   aspects   that   truly   determine   a   business   3 Setem  purchased  Inditex  stock  in  order  to  join  the  company’s  annual  Shareholders’  Meetings.Setem’s  July  2004  press  release  clearly  expressed  its  position  on  the  company:  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Inditex  Ã¢â‚¬â„¢s  social   responsibility   plan   is   a   deceitful   front   that   has   enabled   the   company   to   portray   itself   in   the   media   as   a   pioneer   in   social   responsibility   issues   in   Spain. †Ã‚   Instead,   Intermon   Oxfam,   a   development   NGO   used   to   working   with   business   companies,   published   a   report,   Moda   que   Aprieta  (February  2004),  that  referred  specifically  to  Inditex  in  the  following  terms:  Ã¢â‚¬Å"This  is  the   Spanish  apparel  group  that  has  made  more  progress  in  CSR  issues.Its  key  weakness  lies  in  its   difficulty  to  match  its  aggressive  marketing  policy,  based  on  stringent  order  fulfillment  terms,   and  its  demand  for  suppliers  to  comply  with  its  ethical  code. †Ã‚      Currently,   Clean   Clothes   Campaign   platforms   were   approaching   several   sector   multinationals   to   formulate   a   proposal   for   good   practices   in   the   textile   industry.    In   other   words,   some   companies   and   NGOs   were   trying   to   analyze   market   pressures   forcing   harsh   productivity,   flexibilityà ‚   and   low   cost   strategies   on   sector   players   in   an   attempt   to   minimize   their   negative   impacts,  such  as  labor  instability  and  unsafe  working  conditions. A   group   of   Inditex   top   executives   recognized   the   need   to   approach   company   stakeholders   meaningfully  and  to  develop  sound  CSR  strategies. They  believed  that  it  was  crucial  for  Inditex   to   set   in   place   suitable   mechanisms   to   approach   its   stakeholders. The   company   had   already   moved   in   this   direction