Online shopping Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Online shopping - Research Paper Example The internet is the driving force behind online shopping because it makes transactions between different parties possible. Online shopping has positive impacts towards customers as it makes shopping fast. It has negative impacts on small businesses that have to compete against wholesalers and big retailers. Security standards used in online shopping are well-established. The security standards make it possible for payments to be done using credit cards. The card’s details are encrypted then sent over a layer that is secure over the Internet. The large number of sellers and buyers going online is an enough testimony about the safety and acceptance of online shopping. Consumers do not opt for online shopping because of low prices. Though lowest price can be a motivation for online shoppers, other factors other factors are still important. Online shopping offers better services than visiting stores. Most e-retailers offer free shipping that customer’s value the most (Thau). Many shoppers do not say low prices are their primary attraction and motivation for doing shopping over the internet. This statement was proved by a study done by Simon-Kucher & Partners, a worldwide consultancy firm that counts and records retailers among its clients. The firm did a survey over 1000 consumers. The consultancy firm warns retailers against making lowering prices. The firm says that the retailers who will lower their prices to attract and keep customers will have to undergo long term negative impacts because of that (Thau). Although it might sound unappealing, the retailers who invest in infrastructure will get long-term customer loyalty. This was concluded by Susan Lee, a partner who conducts Simon-Kucher’s retail and consumer goods in northern parts of America. Retailers only need to study and look at recent strategies employed by the nation’s biggest brick-and-mortar retailer. The

Elements That Influence State Government Essay Example for Free

Elements That Influence State Government Essay The special interest group we are going to look at is the Sierra Club. The sierra club is a body of volunteers that come together to fight for the environment. This interest group has offices in every state in the union. As we look at the Sierra Club in whole we will describe what this organization stands for and try to define its relationship two each of the political parties and lastly we will look at how the interest groups influences state government. According to Carl Pope, â€Å"We stand for the principle that ordinary people don’t believe that they’re here to use up the earth and have the bank account exhausted when they die; that most people really see the planet as an ongoing enterprise. They’re inspired by nature. They want to leave it behind and they feel responsible for it Pope (2008), (para. 1)†. That being said the sierra club is an organization with of over 750,000 members with a common goal in mind (Pope, 2008). That goal is to protect the earth we live on. What is unique about the sierra club is depending on what state you’re in, the sierra club will come at you in very different ways depending on the cause at hand. This means if you live in California, the sierra club will fight to protect water rights and conservation as well as air pollution. If one lives in Kentucky then the sierra club will fight you on coal while promoting wind industry. The unique thing the sierra club has going for it is that it has many different platform to speak from while fighting for a common goal. One of the ways the sierra club has found to gain support on different issues is to a line its self with different political party to gain the support and win favor with state voters. What this means is that the sierra club leverages power of their net work of volunteers and members in every state for the chance to help elect candidates that are environmentally friendly and in line with the thoughts and values that the sierra club represents. Another way the sierra club has grown in power is that they have endorsed like minded candidates from state, local, and municipal arenas. One of the ways that make the sierra club so effective in endorsing a candidate is the multi step process; each candidate receives before the sierra club will publicly support said candidate. The sierra club generally a lines its self with the Democratic Party because Democratic are more liberal than Republicans. For this reason this organization will give democrat contributions to help a candidate become elected to office. According the sierra club leadership the more like minded officials we have in office the more changes can be to the ongoing fight to help preserve the environment. The sierra club supports Kentucky Representative John Yarmuth Democrat (Sierra Club Endorses John Yarmuth, 2012). One of the reason the sierra club support Representative Yarmuth is because of his views on the environment, energy as well as the Kentucky Clean Water Protection Act. The Republican Party has not so lucky when it come to getting support from the sierra club. According to the Perspective a news letter, in this news letter the sierra club comments on how they do not believe the republicans care about the environment due to their stand on climate change. The perspective go’s o to tell about how thinks there is not enough scientific fact to support the accusation, it is for these types of reason that the sierra club has failed to support Republican candidates material (The Republicans, The Sierra Club and the Environment, 2012). Since the sierra club is disenchanted with the Republican Party they see very little money or contributions of any kind from this organization. So how does a special interest group influence state government? Interest groups are the ones that fund a lot of the politicians campaigns, so it’s usually an exchange of some kind of service. The interest groups push for certain legislation to go through the House of Representative, and then the Representative relies on their support in their next election. Organizations like the sierra club can influence government by getting candidates elected that have similar goals. Contributions of money on different issues help with advertizing to help sway voters or to inundate the public with information either for or against a cretin issue. Special interest groups like The Sierra Club has become very crafty in the different way they have found to influence government. Most people do not understand that interest groups dont just lobby for legislation and wine and dine politicians. They actually write legislation, to give to politicians to sponsor. For example, the legislation popularly known as No Child Left Behind was actually commissioned by and basically written by an interest group called the Business Round Table. Another angle to look at is that interest groups often employ lobbyists who already have working relationships with the members of the House, and so these groups tend to have more influence over the way the legislation is worded. This way the lobbyist can protect and benefit the company or industry they are lobbying for. References Pope, C. (2008). Big Think. Retrieved from http://bigthink.com/ideas/2378 Sierra Club Endorses John Yarmuth. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.kentucky.sierraclub/newsroom The Republicans, the sierra club and the environment. (2012). Retrieved from http://povcrystal.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-republicans-sierra-club-and.html

First Movement From Brandenburg Concerto No 2 By J S Bach

First Movement From Brandenburg Concerto No 2 By J S Bach One of Bachs most celebrated compositions, Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 was part of six compositions (known as the Brandenburg Concerti, collectively, though they were mostly musically unrelated) that Bach submitted in March 1721 to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg as a job application of sorts. Bach, in the wake of the death of his wife, was trying to leave his musical position with Prince Leopold of Anhalt-CÃ ¶then. However, the individual composition dates for the Brandenberg Concerti cannot be precisely determined. The only thing that can be said with certainty about their chronology is that they were all composed by March 1721, the date on Bachs autograph copy, (Boyd, 1993) including Concerto No. 2. (Ironically, Bach did not get the job.) This piece is identifiable as being in the style of a Concerto Grosso. Concerto grosso, literally translated as great concert, was a popular compositional/performance style from the Baroque period, which is localized between 1650 and 1750. Generally, a concerte grosso was distinguished by a small set of solo instruments (the concertino) that interacted in a musical duel of sorts with a larger group (the ripieno), one answering the other. The Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 is just such an example, with the trumpet playing the most commonly well-known concertino voice. Concerto No. 2 was written in the key of F major, and scored for the following instruments: trumpet (as alluded to above), flute or recorder (the original instrument used), oboe, and violin from whose ranks came the solo instruments; and the viola, cello, and continuo (most commonly a harpsichord), which together formed the ripieno. The piece is divided into three movements, as follows: 1. Allegro (without tempo indication) 2. Andante 3. Allegro assai We shall focus on the first movement. The trumpet part stands out most notably, as it is written to be performed in the difficult clarion style, in which the trumpeter plays in the very highest registers within the instruments capacity, using only the power of rapid lip movements and precisely controlled breathing to change the instruments pitch. In Bachs time, trumpets did not have valves as they do now. In most contemporary performances, a piccolo trumpet is used to perform the original trumpet part as the piccolo trumpet is tuned higher. Whatever the case, the trumpet part stands out starkly in the texture of the piece, with its aggressive and lively tones soaring over the sonic landscape within this piece as it mirrors the orchestra and flies off on its own fancies. This trumpet part is considered a worthy challenge for any advanced player who dares take it on. Interestingly, in the first movement, it is the uniquely high pitch of the trumpet part, as opposed to the part it is playing, which endows it with its tendency to stand out. The reason for this is that here in the first movement, Bach toys with the expectations of the genre and has written the concierto and ripieno instruments the same or similar parts during a portion of the movement, rendering them in some cases indistinguishable. Melodically speaking, there are basically two repeating themes, or ritornello, upon which each instrument, whether concierto or ripieno, bases its movements. Even when the solo instruments deviate as they should in the genre, they are still riffing, if you will, off the material forming the two-movement foundation. They move off the first theme in pairs, venturing forth into repeating and augmenting the second theme while complimenting the first theme. Both the concierto and ripieno parts contain a large number of notes within most measures, often clusters of sixteenth notes. The net effect is parts and instruments blending together both textually and tonally. Two instruments that might normally be easily discernable from one another instead may be perceived by the inexperienced listener as one unique and different one playing the same rapid-fire series of notes. This sonic clustering, combined with the fact that the particular combination of instruments Bach specified for this particular concerto, makes the piece stand out and accounts in part for its enduring popularity. As far as overall texture in the first movement is concerned, the piece is certainly marked by a busy set of contrapuntal elements. The texture can also be generally described as somewhat generally higher and thinner, if you will, or at least less full-sounding and spread out than some other pieces in the Brandenberg family or other music of the time period. There is a good deal of sonic transparency, or open sonic space, left by the frequent collective high pitching of the concierto instruments, which are clustered together by virtue of the repeating ritornello. The individual instruments popping off their sixteenth-note creates a very unique polyphonic texture, and where the instruments diverge, also creates a nice sense of momentum which is reinforced by the well-organized and (deceptively so) focused harmonic structure of the piece. The harmonic structure of the piece is mainly a showcase of very deliberate and calculated dynamic harmony, intended to use harmonic elements to ensure the piece propels itself consistently forward, both emotionally and structurally. Specifically, Bach employs strong chord progressions, I-IV-V-I progression in many instances, as opposed to, for example, merely oscillating purposelessly between chords, which would have resulted in a lack of direction in the piece. The underlying dynamic harmonics serve to satisfyingly push along the already organically fluid chord progressions Even though the texture of the music is contrapuntal, and the writing is in two parts, the dynamic harmony is nevertheless much in evidence. (Sutcliffe, 1999) This harmonic structure, along with the other standout elements, are a testament to the sharp planning evident in so much of Bachs work. In particular, this first movement in the piece is so sprightly, energetic, and almost manic in some instances that it is easy to forget that the entire Concerto is in fact a tightly written and plotted piece, that simultaneously allows a certain creativity in interpretation which can vary by performance. All in all, the first movement in Concerto No. 2 is not only a time-honored musical standout in its own right, both in structure and difficulty, but an intriguing reflection of the larger musical trends evident in the classical music of the time, and Bachs own life.

Tuberculosis: Prevalent and Deadly Essay -- Diseases/Disorders

Tuberculosis (TB) is a very prevalent, very contagious, and very deadly disease worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one third of the population is infected with TB. (Centers for Disease Control Data and statistics) While less common than it has ever been, tuberculosis has seen an upsurge in the last three decades directly related to the AIDS epidemic, but also as a result of the development of many multi-drug-resistant strains. This is of particular concern in developing nations hit hard by AIDS infections, but it is also evidenced in an upswing in the United States. (Nester, Anderson and Roberts) Because of the increase of cases both here and worldwide there has been a concerted effort to limit the number of new infections and to control the spread of it by managing the most at risk populations. Nationally this would include prison populations, people with AIDS, and immigrants from countries where there is a high prevalence of TB. Other risk factors include other immunocompromised groups, including those in hospitals, and poverty. The efforts to combat this disease, via education, vaccine administration, and proper sanitation controls have decreased the spread dramatically. Nationally the decrease began in 1993 (Nester, Anderson and Roberts) and internationally the decrease began in 2010. (United Nations ). Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis. The bacterium spreads in the air when a person with the infection coughs or sneezes. There are many cases of people with latent TB infection but who may eventually develop the disease and therefore become vectors for contagion. Weakened immune systems greatly increase the chances for developing the disease, which explains why ... ... even the latent infection with medication, and isolating those who are contagious have done more to control the spread of this oft fatal disease than have one particular vaccination. Works Cited Centers for Disease Control. Tuberculosis. March 2012. 11 March 2012 . National Network for Immunization Information. Tuberculosis. March 2005. March 2012 . Nester, Eugene, et al. Microbiology: A Human Perspective. 7th Edition. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2012. "Tuberculosis." Human Diseases and Conditions. 1 March 2012 . United Nations . "United Nations News Service." 11 October 2011. United Nations News Centre. 12 March 2012 .

Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee Essay

Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee wanted to achieve diverse goals during the Civil War. Lincoln was determined to save the Union and help the United States move into a new era. He wanted to settle the issue of slavery in the United States, founded on the principles of liberty and equal rights for all. Robert E. Lee fought the war for the Southern traditions. Lee wanted to defend Southern traditions. He fought the war not only to protect slavery, but also to preserve a whole culture, a way of life. Southerners’ wealth and identity belonged to the land they lived on. Lee fought to protect sovereignty, pride, identity, and a decision to secede from the Union. Despite the differences, both men will be heroes for American people. Abraham Lincoln created a sense of nationhood based on equality and coupled it with an American national culture which enabled the United States to maintain its unity. Lincoln became extraordinarily popular not only because he came from a â€Å"common background† but also because of the unusual strength and clarity with which he felt and saw the troubles that were affecting the nation. Lincoln was able to exhibit both warring and emotional leadership. After he established the fact that slaves should be free, he knew he had to make peace with the South to pull the country back together. Despite the dignity, professionalism, and military skills that Lee demonstrated, he represented a country that enslaved an entire race, traded, and sold human beings like livestock. Although the Confederate leaders insisted that they fought for â€Å"states rights,† one of the â€Å"rights† was the continuation of slavery. Robert E. Lee came from a good family. He chose to fight for the confederates although President Lincoln asked him to fight for the North. Lee was a symbol of the Southern chivalry; he did not have any demerits. His way of fighting was very noble. General Lee did not kill everything that moved and did not burn everything that was on his way, unlike the armies from the North. In Lee’s opinion, actions like that were immoral. He insisted that armies should only fight other armies. He did not fight a total war. Lee fought the old-fashioned way. He stood for the old way of life, for nostalgia. Both the North and the South gained knowledge from this horrid experience of  war. Lincoln’s achievements – saving the Union and freeing the slaves – and his sudden death just at the war’s end assured his continuing fame. Lincoln had qualities that made him a great American political leader. His keen intellect, humor and boldness, and compassion all contributed to his presidency in unifying the nation and extending freedom. Despite the differences, both men showed courage, determination and will to pursue their goals, and are now symbols not only of North and South, but also of the United States as a whole.

The Parable of the Sadhu

The Parable of the Sadhu The story revolves around the extent to which a group can bear responsibility over individual’s welfare and well-being. It also raises ethical questions relating to an individual and the ethics of an organization. The case study is a narration of Bowen McCoy story on an expedition to hike the highest mountain in the world, The Himalayas. McCoy spends substantial amount of time hiking the mountain that cross cuts the plains of Nepal.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Parable of the Sadhu specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As the journey continued to be challenging, he meets an Indian cleric considered holy by the citizenry. His name is Sadhu. The holy many had insufficient clothing to cover him from the whims of extreme cold and he was struggling to survive. Noticing the needs of Sadhu, McCoy and his fellow hikers provides him with clothing to keep him from the adverse effect of the cold. They also give him foo d and some warm drinks to gain the lost warmth (Ciulla, 2003). Filled with empathy, members of the group volunteered to take the holy man down the mountain to a nearby village. Nonetheless, they leave him and continue with their expedition up the mountain. They rationalized their action by saying that the man would distract their focus and objective of ascending to the peak of the mountain. McCoy admits that he did not know what had happened to Sadhu raising the moral question of how individuals should act in dilemma typical of genuine ethical issue (Ciulla, 2003). As such, the case study responds to the questions about addressing ethical dilemmas and crises. He recognizes that if the group had gone down the slopes, they could have shifted their focus from the organizational objectives. Can an individual therefore act in a way that contravenes the objectives of an organization when responding to ethical dilemma? Should individual ethics reflect the ethics held by an organization? Ci ulla (2003) asserts that the parable of Sadhu provides insights on how to deal with ethical dilemmas when caught between organizational and personal morals. Power is the ability to influence others to increase the chances of achievement of specific goals. Besides, power reflects control and access to resources and gives those who wield power an upper hand over the rest of the population. It is therefore imperative to notice that nature of power is in itself an indication of self-interests. Humans use power as a means to attain their self-goals and objectives. As indicated by Machiavelli, human beings are in endless competition to fulfill their urge for power, as a means to their ends. Since human beings struggle for power, many ethical issues emerge regarding the use of power and means through which people acquire power. While we consider that power allows the control of resources and access to other aspects of life, power clashes with ethics as it belittle the struggles of subjects of power.Advertising Looking for essay on ethics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Plato’s story about the â€Å"ring of Gyges† illuminates on the human need to acquire power and act, as they would wish. Despite calls to act in a just way, human natural instincts dictate that they act in the way that best fulfills their desires. Upon finding the invincible ring, Annas (1981) says that Gyges who was priory a humble servant acts contrary to the expectations of the people by conspiring with the queen to kill the king for him to ascend to the throne. Hence, human beings act in just ways only when they have no power. This is the only way that justice is possible. In the same way, human nature according Machiavelli is short, brutal and nasty and as such, people will act to make the best out of it. Competition fills human nature and thus, it is only within the context of law that people can control their egois tic needs and act nobly. Centralization of power is therefore the best way to avoid acts of impunity and misdeeds since if every individual was powerful, the world would be lawless as people attempt to outdo each other and control them (Ciulla, 2003). In lieu of the fact that all actions by human beings reflect self-interests, it is imperative for leaders to act within the framework of their respective organizations (Ciulla, 2003). Ciulla (2003) says that leaders are bound by organizational ethics that control their character and conduct. As such, leaders act in line with the objectives of an organization as opposed to self-interests. Nonetheless, when outside the context of the organizations, self-interests prevail making the ‘Republic’ to control human beings through law. References Annas, J. (1981). An introduction to Plato’s Republic. Oxford: Clarendon Press Ciulla, B. (2003).The Ethics of Leadership. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Thompson-Wadsworth Publish ers.