The Roles of Men and Women in a Society Essay Example For Students

The Roles of Men and Women in a Society Essay The Roles of Men and Women in a Society There is a complexity in understanding the role of men and women in a society. Scientists and biologists are challenging themselves to explain the mental and behavioral processes of genders. Natalie Angier born and raised in New York writes â€Å"Men, Women, Sex and Darwin† an essay about evolutionary psychology and the misleading perceptions it has women. She focuses on five topics that the theory argues proving them wrong, and using them for support. The first area the theory introduces â€Å"men are more promiscuous and less sexually reserved than women are† (30). Evolutionary psychology proposes that men are always after sex. They explicitly say men hold a special force attracting them to sex which women cannot fully comprehend. Angier explains that men can be open about their sexual life, unlike women who are impacted by culture and society. Women are judged as â€Å"either chaste or trampy† (35) a woman is seen as pure or a slut. Since the beginning of time women are looked down upon when regarding their sex life. Harassment of women based on their sex life is due to religious and/or cultural influence, which has a stronghold over American society. We will write a custom essay on The Roles of Men and Women in a Society specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now Relating back to Christianity, if you are a virgin it means you are pure and clean, on the other hand if you are not then you are dirty and considered a lower class. I agree that women have the same sex drive that men do, but due to society and culture, women feel unconfident and unwilling to show it. I believe that it is not because â€Å"women supposedly have a lower sex drive than men do† (36) but that they have more precaution of become pregnant. Men have this need to have multiple sex partners for their own confidence. I agree with Angier that men have this competition with other males to see who can get more women. They do this for their need to be dominating other males. The ability of a men attaining more females boosts their self-motivation and satisfaction. Evo-psychos’ second interest is that â€Å"men are naturally attracted to youth and beauty† (30). The theory says that men are attracted to these women because of child bearing. It also says that a healthier younger woman will be able to carry his children. I disagree with this reason, I think that media influences what we expect from people. Unconsciously in our society we are brainwashed by magazines, TV and advertisements, to tells us how we should be and who we are attracted to. If a young child plays with Barbie’s, it automatically gives her the stereotype of how she is theoretical to look like when she is older. Women constantly have an urge in our society to be thin, models and actors tell us how we are supposed to be. If we look at another society for example Africa, I found this article on the web about men attracted to fat women being another type of society. â€Å"They conducted a study in South Africa where fat women are preferred (like many other places) and theyve found correlation that relate to fertility, health, and even how hungry a guy is, due to evolutionary instincts. (Shaolin36). In the essay Angier quotes from Gowaty, â€Å"What pleases me might not please somebody else† (39) disagreeing with the evolutionary psychology theory. Depending on where a person is from, how culture and society influenced them will determine whom they are attracted to. The third statement that evolutionary psychology has made is â€Å"women are in herently more interested in a stable relationship than men are† (30). They perceive that women want someone who will provide for them, and be able to take responsibilities in control. I agree with this concept. .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a , .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .postImageUrl , .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a , .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:hover , .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:visited , .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:active { border:0!important; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:active , .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ua71e50212db92b285ecef7dab6aa140a:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Usama bin Laden Biography EssayIf a woman is looking for someone to settle down with then this proposition makes sense. This fourth statement applies also to the second, â€Å"women are naturally attracted to high-status men with resources† (30) demonstrating Darwin’s â€Å"survival for the fittest’ in action. For a woman to find a man with the right resources it will lead her to peruse a child with him. If a man has more money and a stable job, then the woman knows she has a provider and her children will be cared after. If a women were to settle with someone of lower rank than her unable to support a family, then that would no satisfy the needs of h er life and goals. The last topic evolutionary psychology brings up is how â€Å"humankind’s core preferences and desires were hammered out long, long ago†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (30). Evo-psychology tells us that since ancestral time men have been dominant over women. Generally, women come across upon as being quiet and nurturing, whereas men are shown with strength and dominance. A man has always been the dominating sex, dating back to the Stone Age. During that period, several thousands of years ago, the male has been the one who would go out hunting, and battle. Women are seen as a â€Å"care-taker† and making sure that the group was satisfied. Even today in our society we see how men still dominates our world. If we take a look of all the people who have impact on big decisions, their all male. Researchers are still analyzing why genders behave and act the way they do. Angier has put together her essay clarifying her reasoning’s to the theories that evolutionary psychologist have came up with. Work Cited 1. Angier, Natalie. â€Å"Men, Women, Sex, and Darwin. † 50 Essays. Ed. Denise B. Wydra. 2nd ed. Boston: Bedford, 2007. (29-41). Print. 2. Shaolin36. â€Å"untitled†. DearCupi. ORG. â€Å"n. d†. Web. 5 October 2009.

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Research about managing the lablour costs of food production Speech or Presentation

Research about managing the lablour costs of food production - Speech or Presentation Example It is important to note that a restaurant operating on a labor cost which is as low as 20 percent has a promising future. If levels of labor cost begin to rise, the company should begin to seek on ways of lowering lest it cause a sham to the business. During my work experience at Royal restaurant, if the restaurant made a total daily sales of $10 000, then it had to spend no more than $2 000 paying for labor. Although employees’ salaries which match the volume of sales may help ease the labor costs, key issues such as improvement of productivity at workplace and wise roster plan of employees yield marvelous results. While working at Royal star restaurant, it was a common rule that if the number of customers visiting the restaurant was below 200 per day, the daily sales were over $8000.This also meant that the hotel spends less than $1500 on labor cost. Rostering allowed the hotel to know the working hours of part time workers while comparing it with the sales made during the t ime. If for instance the sales reduce, the number of part time workers was reduced to cut the cost of labor. Other issues that help control labor costs include, cross-training employees, performing frequent staff audits and reviews, employing adequate employees among other measures. Championing Labor Cost Awareness This is normally calculated from the volume of sales made. Labor costs percentage can be calculated as follows: A restaurant that hopes to run successfully must seek to operate at a minimum labor cost percentage that is below 20 percent. At Royal Hotel for instance the labor cost was normally 10 to 16 percent. Cross-Training staff Employee training is vital in any business venture. It is therefore important to cross train employees and the business with a view of equipping workers with vast skills necessary in restaurant service. This is important because the management can schedule fewer workers to various sectors of the restaurant while still being in a position to achi eve same results in the level of production as well as service delivery standards. Cross training can be done by training prep cooks to perform food grilling, training hostess on the work done by the servers and busses to serve food. At Royal hotel, the receptionists were often taken to seminars on public relations and customer satisfaction. Superannuation and Retirement Superannuation is a way of gathering for the retirement of your employees. This is done by making contributions to the super funds of each employee. In Australia for instance, an average of 9% of the employee’s salary is paid into the employee’s super fund. At Royal Star restaurant, the fund is awarded upon retirement or demise of any staff. Conducting Frequent Staff Audits and Reviews The cost of labor depends on a large extent to improvement and level of productivity. Therefore, it is important to perform regular audits. This can be done by assessing the performance of employees. The assessment shoul d focus on working days and hours of employees. If found that a substantial amount of time is lost through long breaks or down time, a review should be done to adjust the time accordingly. Care must be taken to aid in proper communication among the employees in helping communicating concerns and ideas. An audit was done after every three months at Royal Hotel. Control Labor Cost With

Communities Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Communities - Essay Example So, what makes a group like ours a community is the existence of values, norms, customs, and traditions that are shared and respected by one group of people. As such, the world now no more consists of individuals but of social groups and communities that are characterized by unique sets of values and norms. This means that the world is actually composed of different cultures. A community then is characterized by the ways of life of the members of a group, including how they dress, their marriage customs and family life, their patterns of work, religious ceremonies and leisure time. In the case of the group I belong to, we share the habit of going to the cafà ©, having our preferred drink, and exchanging talks and stories. Actually, the main need of the group I belong to is the need to socialize and feel that one does live alone in this world. Rather, there is a need t listen to other people’s stories, problems, and fun moments. However, some of the tensions or differences that work against the cohesion of this community include the existence of some different cultural backgrounds for the members of the community. For example, one member of our group belongs to an African culture, another one belongs to an Asian culture, and a third one is a Hispanic. Typically, a group of individuals who belong to the same society or group are characterized by certain traits and values that may be completely different from, and sometimes opposite to, other values and norms. In our group, some members belong originally to eastern societies, while others belong to Wester n societies. As for me, with my European background, I feel excited and relaxed when communicating with individuals who belong to different cultures and backgrounds. Thus, I feel that the group I belong to is quite interesting and appealing to me, as it enriches my life and gives me a chance to have an eye on other

The Spectrochemical Series Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Spectrochemical Series - Lab Report Example Also ammonium chloride (NH4Cl), 16.00 g was dissolved in concentrated aqueous ammonia (NH4OH), 16 m ,there was formation of white suspension as a result of this. The dissolving process was done in separate beakers. The 2 solutions were then mixed in a casserole. These led to the formation of an orange solution. Following this, there was small increment addition of 4 ml of 30% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into this solution; this resulted to the formation of black solution with fizzing of oxygen gas. Lastly, the solution changed to maroon. The solution was heated on a steam bath until thick slurry was obtained; it was then put in an ice bath to cool. The rinsing of the solution was carried using 3 M hydrochloric acid (65 ml) in a 200 ml beaker and heated 10 minutes at 60?C. The solution was placed on an ice bath to cool and it was later filtered under a vacuum and the resulting precipitate was washed with acetone and cold water (iced). As a result of this there was formation of a pink pre cipitate. Week 2: There was addition of 2 M aqueous ammonia (NH4OH) (200 ml) in a beaker with the solid then heated to 50-60?C. this resulted to the formation of a cherry red solution. Then later, there was addition of concentrated hydrochloric acid (65 ml) to the solution. This resulted to the formation of white fumes. This solution was then heated for 10 min. ... Then later the precipitate was put at 110 ?C in an oven for 1 hour. Lastly, the solid mass was obtained using an electronic balance. Results and Discussion: Complex Formula of complex Color of solution Absorbance peak (nm) Splitting energy (J) A [Co(NH3)5Cl]2+ Pink 530.76 374519E-19 B [Co(NH3)6]3+ Orange 474.86 4.18228E-19 C [Co(NH3)5F]2+ (Not Given) 500-515 3.9756E-19 - 3.85981E-19 D [Co(NH3)5Br]2+ Purple 548.24 3.62578E-19 E [Co(NH3)5H2O]3+ Light red/orange 497.04 3.9994E-19 Table 1: Shows formulae of the complex, Solution Color, peak absorbance, and the splitting energy Of the 5 cobalt complexes employed in the experiment. Calculations (sample B): ?E = hc/? ? E = (6.626x10-34Js)(3x108m/s)/(474.86x10-9m) ? E = 4.18228E-19J Overall Reaction: 2CoCl2.6H2O +10NH4OH +2NH4Cl +H2O2 +3Cl- Â  ? 2[Co(NH3)5Cl]Cl2 + 24H2O + NH3Â   Re-crystallized solid Mass = solid mass + vial mass) – vial mass =15.76 – 13.25 = 2.51 g Reactions: CoCl2Â ·6H2O ? [Co(H2O)6]2+ + 2 Cl- [Co(H2O)6]2+ (aq) + 2NH3(aq) ? [Co(OH)2(H2O)4](s) + 2NH4+(aq) [Co(OH)2(H2O)4](s) + 5NH3(aq)? [Co(NH3)5]2+(aq) + 4H2O(l) + 2OH?(aq) [Co(NH3)5]2+(aq)+ ? H2O2? [Co(NH3)5]3+ + OH- (aq) [Co(NH3)5]3+ + 3Cl- ?[Co(NH3)5Cl]2+ + 2Cl- ?[Co(NH3)5Cl]Cl2 Mol of CoCl2.6H2O = mass/molar mass = 5.00/238 = 0.021008 mol CoCl2.6H2O : [Co(NH3)5Cl]Cl2 = 2 : 2 = 1 : 1 Mol of [Co(NH3)5Cl]Cl2 = 0.021008 mol Mass of [Co(NH3)5Cl]Cl2 = 0.021008 X 250.5 = 5.26 g % yield = (actual yield / theoretical yield) X 100 = (2.51 / 5.26) X 100 = 47.71 % This experiment was able to determine the identity of each of these five cobalt complexes. Basing on the table information provided, the Cobalt complexes can be determined easily by arranging them according to wavelength from smallest to the largest: D < A < C < E < B This arrangement corresponds

Effectiveness of Direct Mail on Cigarette Vending Industry

Effectiveness of Direct Mail on Cigarette Vending Industry The Effectiveness of Direct Mail on the Cigarette Vending Industry in the United Kingdom Irrespective of the mode and methods adopted for marketing, including direct mail, the cigarette vending industry continues to prosper not only in the United Kingdom, but also across the world. At the same time there is a continuous rise in the spread of a number of diseases directly related with smoking including chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and various types of cancers in turn leading to increased death rates amongst the smoking populations. One of the major causes of premature deaths in developing countries, the figures for United Kingdom alone show that approximately 120,000 individuals die every year from diseases directly related to smoking, which is an alarming 20 present of all deaths in a given year. A similar study on smoking also revealed that cancer alone accounts for nearly a third of all deaths from smoking, and another one sixth die from other causes related to smoking. Figures for the younger generation entering the smoking populations of the United Kingdom showed that there was a gradual rise between the years 1988 and 1997,and a somewhat similar rise in the figures amongst adult smoking populations. Marketing departments of cigarette manufacturing companies around the world would least care that an individual smoking cigarette on a regular basis more than doubles the risk of dying before he or she reaches the age of 65. If there is any consolation for these companies adopting various lucrative direct mail strategies for vending and marketing cigarettes, smoking by pregnant women have been found to result in severe repercussions for the foetus as well as new born baby. These include an increased risk of miscarriage, reduced birth weight and potential for prenatal deaths. In similar context, parents who continue to smoke after pregnancy invite increased chances of sudden death syndrome in their infants. The following dissertation will however limit its discussions and studies, and present its findings on the effectiveness of direct mail in the cigarette vending industry of the United Kingdom. (DOH, 1998) Introduction One of the most widely accepted facts and one that has been proven beyond any doubt is that smoking poses a number of health risks. In addition smokers are more than likely to contract certain diseases in comparison to those who do not smoke at all. It is also a fact that smoking is largely accepted as an addictive habit, and with the passage of time, and advances in the study of and implications of smoking alto openly reveal that today it is not merely an addictive habit; on the contrary it is a collection of human behaviours which also includes smoking. It must also be borne in mind that since it is an addiction, and for some indeed a very strong habit, it is wrong to assume that this habit cannot be given up. In fact, there have been numerous cases where individuals have totally given up smoking. It is precisely this line of approach that has made major cigarette manufacturers to print health warning instructions on all their respective packs of cigarettes. Furthermore, majority of the cigarette manufacturing companies around the world, including those of the United Kingdom comply with requisite regulations and legislations with respect of marketing, advertisement and sales of cigarettes. There are also companies, which have their own pack labelling policies, which go beyond the requisite legislation of the respective host country. It is perhaps this lapse, if one may wish to call it, which has allowed majority of cigarette manufacturing companies to guise their marketing, promotion, advertising and selling policies into a philosophy which acknowledges the right of the adult populations to smoke, and consequently respect and protect that particular right. (Pierce et al,1998; Beemer and Siegel, 2000; Safer and Chaloupka, 1999; Anderson etal, 2002; Slade, 2001; Lewis and Littler, 1999) In pursuance of the rights of the smokers, cigarette manufacturing companies also stand against any excessive price regulations and tax measures which are presumably aimed at reducing demand for cigarettes. An independent view of a number of tax and price measures levied by various countries including the United Kingdom reveal that the smoking populations are unduly punished for the pleasure of smoking, and governments largely fail to take into account the huge sums generated from revenues on the various taxes levied on cigarettes. These high rates of taxes levied on cigarettes then results in the illegal and often illicit trade of smuggling cigarettes in turn undermining the legitimate market for cigarette companies running and operating under legal channels of business. A brief on the United Kingdoms cigarette industry reveals that 1 in every 5 cigarettes is smuggled into the country, which adds to a huge20 present of the entire cigarette industry of United Kingdom. In similar context is the call for a ban on the sale of duty free cigarettes, as the primary objective behind the promotion of duty free sale of cigarettes, or for that matter any other product is reduction in illicit trade of that particular item. A ban on the duty free sale of cigarettes would practically jeopardize the regulated duty free retail of that product, and at the same time have a minimal effect on the sale of cigarettes. On the contrary a ban on the duty free sale of cigarettes would simply bring about a shift in the market of cigarettes from a duty free environment to one that is largely controlled by domestic market. Another related aspect of the cigarette vending industry is that of various standards and policies which are aimed at raising awareness about the potential health risks associated with smoking. Trade zones such as those found in European Union for example are ample grounds for such standards and policies to be levied, which in turn allow for uniform results as well as derive common interests amongst the respective countries. The non-smoking segment of the populations is yet another vital area of focus for cigarette manufacturing companies. As also a public health issue, the non-smokers are prone to, and thus demand protective measures from passive smoking. In this respect, there exist two schools of thought; one that disregards any findings and conclusions, which present cigarette smoke as a potential health hazard for non-smokers. This group though acknowledges that cigarette smoke is indeed a source of annoyance as well as one of the causes of environmental pollution. Yet, they also call for an approach based on simple logic and common sense and co-operation. While the second school of thought, such as M/Gallaher, one of the major cigarette manufacturing and marketing companies in the UK, contend that government initiatives including the â€Å"Air Quality program are viable and productive programs to address vital public smoking issues. Literature Reviews There have a number of writings and case studies, which prove the effectiveness of direct mail on the cigarette vending industry,. These writings and studies have convincingly proven that direct mail has had positive affect and its influences have directly contributed to the rise in cigarette sales, in turn promoting the cigarette vending industry in general. Thus, it would not be wrong to state, as also proven from the following case studies, that the direct mail strategy in the cigarette vending industry has proven to affect smoking initiation as well as consumption. A brief historical perspective also reveals that cigarette manufacturing companies the world over have significantly changed their focus from the traditional advertising tithe use of techniques which emphasize on developing as well as maintaining a relationship with individual customers. Direct mail through direct communication thus offers cigarette-vending industry source of generating sales including obtaining measurable response in related areas of marketing. (Pierce et al, 1998; Beemer and Siegel,2000; Safer and Chaloupka, 1999; Anderson et al, 2002; Slade, 2001;Lewis and Littler, 1999) One of the most effective techniques, and perhaps one of the oldest as well, is that of utilizing mailing list of individuals maintained by major and minor cigarette vending companies alike. It is this list of individuals or customers, which serves as the potential for direct mail for cigarette vending industry. This list is also used for the distribution of coupons, sweepstakes offers, and brand-loyalty programme catalogues. Also included in the items distributed through direct mail are event announcements sponsored by the cigarette vending industry, and magazines published by major tobacco manufacturing companies. Practically all these items which are sent to individuals using the direct mail system contain activities and feature images which serve a two-fold purpose. First, these promotional items are designed in such a manner to make emotional appeals to customers. Second, they serve to strengthen, rather reinforce the existing images of the various brands of cigarettes in the market. There are different modes of collecting such list of individuals, which includes events that are sponsored by the cigarette industry, sweepstake forms, signed coupons as well as brand-loyalty program orders. These listings more often than not include some form of a response mechanism, which invites recipients to fill out surveys for example, or mention their lifestyle preferences. A statistic covering the US cigarette industry with particular reference to the role of direct mail reveals that there has been general rising trend in the use of direct mail in the United States. Brief on the 6 largest US cigarette manufacturers showed that they collectively spend a staggering amount of US 133.9 million dollars on direct mail in 2001. This was an increase of 131.8 present from the figures of 1998. One may note that these huge figures do not include sums spent on coupons or specialty items distributed through the mail system. (USFTC, 2002) A survey carried out by a team of doctors at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, in the United States provided for results which convincingly proved that direct mail in the cigarette vending industry not only enhanced initiation, but effectively raised the chances for potential smokers. This survey comprised of some 3900adults, and primarily focused on the answer to 3 questions. (University of Medicine and Dentistry NJ, 2002; SUDAAN, 2001) Questionnaire for the Survey Did any of the participant receive direct mail from a tobacco company within the last 6 months, including magazines, coupons, or catalogues. Did any of the participants use a coupon to buy cigarettes. Did any of the participants save any UPC codes, or tokens from any brand-loyalty programmes of a tobacco manufacturer. Results of the Survey The results of the above questionnaire from the selected adult participants showed that the current range of smoking populations were4 to 5 times more likely to have received direct mail within the past 6months as compared to those who had never smoked before or were belonged to the former smoking community. Second, the survey showed that smokers who had quit smoking in the last 12 months were 2 to 4 times more likely to receive direct mail as compared to those who had never smoked or those who belonged to the former smoking community. The survey also revealed that the white populations as compared to other groups of populations topped the list of individuals receiving direct mail offers for cigarettes or related material in aid of marketing for a given brand of cigarette. The use of coupons was found to be the highest amongst the female smoking community, white adults as well as those falling within the age group of 25 and 64 years. Similarly, saving for programs such as brand-reward programs was also found to be highest amongst current population of smokers, white segment of the population as well as the those falling within the age bracket of 18 and 24 years. Discussion on the Findings and Literature Review The above findings significantly provided evidence that direct mail served to increase the consumption of cigarettes, and subsequently ‘impede cessation. The said survey also found that coupons delivered through the direct mail to individuals were originally designed to bring about a reduction in prices of cigarettes, as well as simultaneously offset the impact of rise in taxes and other control measures levied by respective authorities. It was also found that programs offered through direct mail, such as brand-loyalty programs were intended to reward and encourage smokers through offer for additional purchases. The survey also revealed that direct mail marketing for cigarettes was originally designed to restrict switching of brands amongst customers. However, this strategy was only cover-up, and instead such direct mail offers allowed and in fact assisted smokers to continue smoking. The above literature review and survey on the role of direct mail on the cigarette vending industry shows numerous legislations, public campaigns against smoking, proven addictive behaviours resulting in serious health repercussions and rising awareness levels against thrill effects of smoking all have somewhat forced cigarette manufacturing companies the world over to adopt direct mail strategies. These direct mail strategies not only provide smokers with appealing and inviting messages; they move a step further and offer rewards for smoking. Direct mail also offers an excellent mode of communicating directly with customers, which is all too easily disguised and more than hidden from the piercing scrutiny of the public health community. It is also an effective strategy against rising restrictions on the different and traditional modes of advertising. In this respect a direct mail marketing plan of the world renowned Philip Morris also notes that direct mail is indeed one of the infl uencing factors in the use and consumption of cigarettes. (Slade, 2001; Strategic Plan, 1995) The above literature review and survey also reveals though direct mail is only one of the many marketing techniques adopted by cigarette vending industry, it is undoubtedly one which is witnessing continuous growth pattern, and one that is likely to grow in the future as well. The use of direct mail strategy is all the more worthy of concern as the cigarette vending industry is witnessed to continually change its marketing strategies in response to rising set of legislations and public opinion. It also a proven fact that practically all those involved in cigarette vending industry pursue a marketing strategy with a singular objective; one which aims to encourage initiation and consumption in smoking cigarettes. To curb such efforts, and to bring about a control for restricting such marketing strategies including direct mail, there is an ever-demanding need to fully comprehend marketing tactics utilized by cigarette vending industry. Included in these efforts is removal of the names of the individuals from the list maintained by cigarette vending industry by the smokers themselves as they decide to quit smoking. The exposure of probable intent on the part of cigarette vending industry and possible effects of such direct mail strategies along with measures, which serve as potential triggers, such as the presence of ashtrays, should also be taken into account. (Fiore et al, 2000; King, 2001) 2nd Literature Review In continuation with our dissertation on the effectiveness of direct mail on the cigarette vending industry, yet another research carried out by Lynn McFadden of the University of Strathclyde and published in the British Medical Journal issue of March 2001 is presented here. This research uncovers young peoples awareness about marketing strategies adopted by cigarette vending industry and their involvement and association with their smoking behaviours. One of the most successful methods of direct mail marketing is one, which is carried out at the point of sale. It is the venue of point of sale where a number of cigarette vending industrialists tend to focus, as also evident in the research findings of the University of Strathclyde. The research comprised of some 629 young people, aged between the ages of 15 and 16, and all of who had opted to be a part of the research through a postal consent procedure. The focus of the research, as also stated in the preceding lines waste examination of young peoples awareness of and involvement with cigarette marketing. The research also sought to determine the level of association, if any, amongst the group of young people between the level of awareness and the their smoking behaviours. The overall findings of the above research comprising of young people revealed an extra-ordinary high level of awareness and equally high levels of involvement of young people in the marketing strategies of cigarette vending industry. Out of the 629 participants involved in the research, some 95 present of them were more than aware of the various advertising techniques utilized by the cigarette vending industry, as also aware of the various methods utilized in the point of sale marketing. Thus, both the aspects, those of awareness and involvement with cigarette vending industry were strongly found to be related with being a smoker. This was more than proven from the statistics derived in the said research. For example out of the group of some 185 participants, 55 or a huge 30 present of the research participants admitted that they had received free gifts through coupons attached with the cigarette packs. A comparison with non-smoking community showed that only 11 present or 21 out of 199 participants had received fee gifts through coupons in the cigarette packs. Furthermore, it was also revealed in the same set of researches that aside from the awareness element about coupon schemes, participates were also equally aware about brand stretching and tobacco marketing, all of which were linked in some way or the other with their smoking habits. (DOH, 1992;Atiken et al, 1987; Led with, 1984; Charlton et al, 1997; Altman et al,1996; Aitken et al, 1991) The above research thus concluded the young populations aged 15 and16 were not only fully aware on the various aspects of cigarette marketing including direct mail and marketing at the point of sales; they were also more than associated with the different cigarette vending industries in the marketing of cigarettes and both the awareness and involvement in the marketing were linked with their smoking status and habits. These findings also called for a more stringent set of statutory legislations, as compared to the otherwise voluntary regulations which are primarily designed to protect these teenagers, and which have become somewhat ineffective. Other findings from the above carried out researches revealed and established the fact that the role of the mass media in advertising encouraged smoking amongst the younger populations. From a purely economics perspective, the same findings showed that expenditure on advertising pointed towards an increase in the prevalence, while a drop in the expenditures on advertising resulted in the subsequent drop in the prevalence of cigarette consumption, thereby proving a direct relationship between advertising and consumption of cigarettes. These studies focusing on the younger population showed that teenagers smoking cigarettes are more likely to appreciate as also be aware of the tobacco and cigarette advertising related sponsorships, merchandising and vending. In line with such studies, other cohort studies on the same segment of teenage smoking populations resulted in similar results and furthermore predicted a tendency of future smoking behaviours amongst the researched populations. (DOH, 1992; Aitken et al,1987; Led with, 1984; Charlton et al, 1997; Altman et al, 1996; Aitken al, 1991) A similar experiment involving some 2400 teenagers all aged a 15years, yet only differentiated by sex and postal addresses were taken for a research project from an area in the North of England. These teenagers were invited to participate in the research programme after due consent from their parents/guardians with the primary objective of deriving some 280 smokers from the total lot of participants. With response rate of more than 48 present, some 1062 responded to the call for invitation and studies carried out from the set of questionnaires mailed to each participant along with the consent form. The results obtained from the 1062 participant teenagers (all aged15 years) showed that one in every 5 teenager was involved in smoking,214 teenagers or 20 present of the respondents were regular smokers,825 or a huge 78 present not regular smokers, while 23 respondents or 2percent of the total respondents declined to divulge their smoking status. In continuation with the studies on the teenage smoking population, a random number of 373 respondents were gradually removed from the research list, as they were not regular smokers. The removal of these selected respondents further narrowed the research to those who were in the habit of, or were involved in smoking cigarettes. The number of respondents was now brought down from 1062, as also stated in the opening lines of these paragraphs, to 686 candidates only. These 686 teenage candidates were then interviewed through a team of professional interviewers, who were in turn instructed to make at least4 clear attempts to gain positive research results. The interviewers were not given any prior information as the status of smoking habits of the interviewed candidates so as to derive a transparent set of findings. Here too, the permission of the parents/guardians was sought prior to the interview, as well as a 5-Pound gift voucher was also handed to each candidate. In carrying out the above research 629 out of the total 686respondents were successfully interviewed. Those who were left out did so due to the passage of time, as by the time the research was concluded, the respondents had entered their 16th year, whereas the entire team of research candidates belonged to the 15 year old age bracket only. Each of the candidates was given two sets of questionnaires; one included a face to face interview with the teenage candidate, while the candidate in the presence of their guardians/parents filled out the second questionnaire. One may note that there was no influence of the parents presence on the part of the respondent teenagers. Each of the questionnaires resulted in the awareness, as well as the involvement of the candidates with the different techniques used in the marketing by the cigarette vending industry including direct mail marketing. The findings of the research revealed the smoking habits/status of the teenage candidates, their future intentions for smoking, education levels, and smoking by their peers, siblings, and whether their parents smoked or not. (DOH, 1992;Atiken et al, 1987; Led with, 1984; Charlton et al, 1997; Altman et al,1996; Aitken et al, 1991) A detailed analysis of the awareness element of the teenage group interviewed showed that in comparison to the non-smoking teenage population, those who smoked cigarettes were more than aware of practically all forms of marketing techniques including direct mail marketing. Information from the respondents showed that teenagers involved in smoking were also fully aware of the different types, but also knew about advertisements in magazines, newspapers, special price schemes, and offers for cigarettes. In addition, majority of the smoking teenage population had witnessed advertising on billboards, where more than fifty present of those interviewed had read about some form of cigarette marketing in the press. Also included were advertisements and marketing at point of sales, coupon schemes, and special price offers for cigarettes. Other findings from the research of the 15 year old teenagers revealed that 20 present of the said teenage population had witnessed some form of brand stretching, which included clothing or other items with logos of famous brands of cigarettes, new pack designs, the different and attractive nature and size of the cigarettes, free gifts offered through cigarettes, competitions, and watching famous personalities smoking in films and on television. Though at a lower level, there was awareness on the various promotional mails from cigarette vending industry, distribution of free cigarettes, and to some extent from the network, or the Internet. Thus, it was observed that young smokers were more than fully aware of practically all forms of cigarette marketing techniques including direct mail, in comparison to non-smokers or those who had tried to join the smoking populations. The awareness on the marketing aspect on the part of the teenage populations was more noticeable where free gifts, special price offers, promotional mail, and newer forms of cigarette packs and designs. Marketing of Cigarettes and Role of Teenagers As also stated in the above researched teenage smoking group, there was significant evidence to suggest the involvement and role of teenagers in the marketing of cigarettes including both direct mail and coupon schemes. It was also revealed there was little difference amongst male and female teenagers both of who participated somewhat equally in the marketing of cigarettes. A statistical break-up of the smoking teenager population and the non-smoking teenagers showed that more than fifty present of the smoking populations amongst the teenagers had willingly participated in one or other form of marketing for cigarette companies. In comparison, some 25 present of non-smokers and those who had tried smoking had also participated in some form of marketing for cigarettes. The above research on the teenage smoking population also showed that some 33 present of those interviewed had received free gifts through coupons schemes; another 25 present were in receipt of the special price offers for cigarettes, and a smaller 10 present of the teenage population had received free gifts through direct mail schemes at events organized by the cigarette vending company or received the same through promotional mail schemes. The above findings thus conclusively show that there is a more than strong relationship between awareness of each cigarette marketing technique and current smoking status while variable linked with teenage smoking are held constant. In particular, the awareness of coupon schemes and brand stretching are one way or the other linked to the enhanced probability of the individual being a current smoker, as also with having friends who smoke, siblings, or either parent being smoker. In this study, having friends as smokers was found to be a great influencing factor with the individual being a current smoker. The number of marketing techniques also varied and left a positive mark on the current smoking status and habit of the teenagers interviewed. Hereto, the presence of a close friend, either parent, or siblings was directly associated with an enhanced probability factor for a current smoker. A break up of the different marketing techniques to which the teenage populations are exposed show that package design or price promotion account for a larger exposure, as compared for example brand stretching and shop advertising, the latter of which had little or no effect on the teenage segment of the smoking population. In spite of the above findings, a common factor to emerge was that the young populations was observed to receive some form of benefit, reward, or reassurance from either of the cigarette vending industries; hence a reinforcement of smoking habits, or promotion of smoking amongst the teenage populations. These research more than confirms the need for a stronger set of legislation and laws. The research also calls for an equally tighter set of controls on the marketing techniques adopted by the cigarette vending industries across the United Kingdom. It also proves that the current voluntary form of regulations primarily designed to protect would be smokers, new smokers, and in particular teenage and younger populations are failing, and there is a greater and crucial need for revision of the same. The British Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Bill should be so designed to comprehensively ban some of the most famous forms of marketing such as coupon and brand stretching; the ban should move a step further and outlaw practically all forms and modes of marketing by the cigarette vending industry. Laws, Regulations and Loopholes Exploited by the Cigarette Vending Industry by Marketing/Promotion of Cigarettes This section of the dissertation will address some of the applicable laws and regulations presently levied in the United Kingdom as well as through the directives of the European Union for all member states respectively. It will also take into account the various loopholes and exploiting measures employed by the cigarette vending industry, as they bypass or practically ignore effective regulations to promote the sale of cigarettes, including various forms of direct mail, as also the subject of our above dissertation. One of the first sets of regulations is the European Union Directive98/43/EC, which was duly accepted as a law as of 30th July 1998. Theseus Directive specifically called for minimal tobacco advertising inside the shops. Though the directive contains a summary and overview of the measures and timetable for the implementation of the directive, the salient feature of this directive calls for member government of the European Union including United Kingdom to ban all forms of commercial communication as well as sponsorships, both of which primarily aim actor influence the promotion of tobacco products. An overview of the above said directive shows that though this covers vast area of advertising, and is largely utilized by the cigarette/tobacco vending industry to promote their respective products; the objective of the directive is to bring a halt to the transfer or changeover of promotion techniques used in the marketing of cigarettes. However, the same directive is all too easily exploited through loopholes and exemptions such as those enjoyed by the sellers of tobacco only, marketing at limited point of sales, imported publications, and use of vague language. Brand Stretching One of the areas which perhaps provide as one of the largest loopholes for the cigarette vending industry in their endeavours to market their brand of cigarettes is that of brand stretching. As also discussed in detail in the above present literature reviews and researches, brand stretching is the use of non-tobacco products and services to advertise tobacco and various cigarette brands. These include for example clothes with logos of famous cigarette brands, shoes, and other items, which though are one of the means for marketing; yet in reality they serve to attract the attention of current as well as would be smoker populations alike. This directive is one step short of a total ban on all forms of advertising including such direct mail advertising as utilized by Marlboro Classics, yet it allows governments to exempt advertising where the branding is visibly different from the brand of the cigarette and where advertising is done in good faith without clarifying the actual meaning of the phrase ‘good faith. Thus, we have a loophole duly utilized by the cigarette vending industry in the form of relaxation on such advertising, and use of such phrases as good faith. 3rd Literature Review An Insight into Advertising As One of the Strongest Forms of Direct mail Marketing Strategy Used by the Cigarette Vending Industry Studies carried out by British Governments health S Effectiveness of Direct Mail on Cigarette Vending Industry Effectiveness of Direct Mail on Cigarette Vending Industry The Effectiveness of Direct Mail on the Cigarette Vending Industry in the United Kingdom Irrespective of the mode and methods adopted for marketing, including direct mail, the cigarette vending industry continues to prosper not only in the United Kingdom, but also across the world. At the same time there is a continuous rise in the spread of a number of diseases directly related with smoking including chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and various types of cancers in turn leading to increased death rates amongst the smoking populations. One of the major causes of premature deaths in developing countries, the figures for United Kingdom alone show that approximately 120,000 individuals die every year from diseases directly related to smoking, which is an alarming 20 present of all deaths in a given year. A similar study on smoking also revealed that cancer alone accounts for nearly a third of all deaths from smoking, and another one sixth die from other causes related to smoking. Figures for the younger generation entering the smoking populations of the United Kingdom showed that there was a gradual rise between the years 1988 and 1997,and a somewhat similar rise in the figures amongst adult smoking populations. Marketing departments of cigarette manufacturing companies around the world would least care that an individual smoking cigarette on a regular basis more than doubles the risk of dying before he or she reaches the age of 65. If there is any consolation for these companies adopting various lucrative direct mail strategies for vending and marketing cigarettes, smoking by pregnant women have been found to result in severe repercussions for the foetus as well as new born baby. These include an increased risk of miscarriage, reduced birth weight and potential for prenatal deaths. In similar context, parents who continue to smoke after pregnancy invite increased chances of sudden death syndrome in their infants. The following dissertation will however limit its discussions and studies, and present its findings on the effectiveness of direct mail in the cigarette vending industry of the United Kingdom. (DOH, 1998) Introduction One of the most widely accepted facts and one that has been proven beyond any doubt is that smoking poses a number of health risks. In addition smokers are more than likely to contract certain diseases in comparison to those who do not smoke at all. It is also a fact that smoking is largely accepted as an addictive habit, and with the passage of time, and advances in the study of and implications of smoking alto openly reveal that today it is not merely an addictive habit; on the contrary it is a collection of human behaviours which also includes smoking. It must also be borne in mind that since it is an addiction, and for some indeed a very strong habit, it is wrong to assume that this habit cannot be given up. In fact, there have been numerous cases where individuals have totally given up smoking. It is precisely this line of approach that has made major cigarette manufacturers to print health warning instructions on all their respective packs of cigarettes. Furthermore, majority of the cigarette manufacturing companies around the world, including those of the United Kingdom comply with requisite regulations and legislations with respect of marketing, advertisement and sales of cigarettes. There are also companies, which have their own pack labelling policies, which go beyond the requisite legislation of the respective host country. It is perhaps this lapse, if one may wish to call it, which has allowed majority of cigarette manufacturing companies to guise their marketing, promotion, advertising and selling policies into a philosophy which acknowledges the right of the adult populations to smoke, and consequently respect and protect that particular right. (Pierce et al,1998; Beemer and Siegel, 2000; Safer and Chaloupka, 1999; Anderson etal, 2002; Slade, 2001; Lewis and Littler, 1999) In pursuance of the rights of the smokers, cigarette manufacturing companies also stand against any excessive price regulations and tax measures which are presumably aimed at reducing demand for cigarettes. An independent view of a number of tax and price measures levied by various countries including the United Kingdom reveal that the smoking populations are unduly punished for the pleasure of smoking, and governments largely fail to take into account the huge sums generated from revenues on the various taxes levied on cigarettes. These high rates of taxes levied on cigarettes then results in the illegal and often illicit trade of smuggling cigarettes in turn undermining the legitimate market for cigarette companies running and operating under legal channels of business. A brief on the United Kingdoms cigarette industry reveals that 1 in every 5 cigarettes is smuggled into the country, which adds to a huge20 present of the entire cigarette industry of United Kingdom. In similar context is the call for a ban on the sale of duty free cigarettes, as the primary objective behind the promotion of duty free sale of cigarettes, or for that matter any other product is reduction in illicit trade of that particular item. A ban on the duty free sale of cigarettes would practically jeopardize the regulated duty free retail of that product, and at the same time have a minimal effect on the sale of cigarettes. On the contrary a ban on the duty free sale of cigarettes would simply bring about a shift in the market of cigarettes from a duty free environment to one that is largely controlled by domestic market. Another related aspect of the cigarette vending industry is that of various standards and policies which are aimed at raising awareness about the potential health risks associated with smoking. Trade zones such as those found in European Union for example are ample grounds for such standards and policies to be levied, which in turn allow for uniform results as well as derive common interests amongst the respective countries. The non-smoking segment of the populations is yet another vital area of focus for cigarette manufacturing companies. As also a public health issue, the non-smokers are prone to, and thus demand protective measures from passive smoking. In this respect, there exist two schools of thought; one that disregards any findings and conclusions, which present cigarette smoke as a potential health hazard for non-smokers. This group though acknowledges that cigarette smoke is indeed a source of annoyance as well as one of the causes of environmental pollution. Yet, they also call for an approach based on simple logic and common sense and co-operation. While the second school of thought, such as M/Gallaher, one of the major cigarette manufacturing and marketing companies in the UK, contend that government initiatives including the â€Å"Air Quality program are viable and productive programs to address vital public smoking issues. Literature Reviews There have a number of writings and case studies, which prove the effectiveness of direct mail on the cigarette vending industry,. These writings and studies have convincingly proven that direct mail has had positive affect and its influences have directly contributed to the rise in cigarette sales, in turn promoting the cigarette vending industry in general. Thus, it would not be wrong to state, as also proven from the following case studies, that the direct mail strategy in the cigarette vending industry has proven to affect smoking initiation as well as consumption. A brief historical perspective also reveals that cigarette manufacturing companies the world over have significantly changed their focus from the traditional advertising tithe use of techniques which emphasize on developing as well as maintaining a relationship with individual customers. Direct mail through direct communication thus offers cigarette-vending industry source of generating sales including obtaining measurable response in related areas of marketing. (Pierce et al, 1998; Beemer and Siegel,2000; Safer and Chaloupka, 1999; Anderson et al, 2002; Slade, 2001;Lewis and Littler, 1999) One of the most effective techniques, and perhaps one of the oldest as well, is that of utilizing mailing list of individuals maintained by major and minor cigarette vending companies alike. It is this list of individuals or customers, which serves as the potential for direct mail for cigarette vending industry. This list is also used for the distribution of coupons, sweepstakes offers, and brand-loyalty programme catalogues. Also included in the items distributed through direct mail are event announcements sponsored by the cigarette vending industry, and magazines published by major tobacco manufacturing companies. Practically all these items which are sent to individuals using the direct mail system contain activities and feature images which serve a two-fold purpose. First, these promotional items are designed in such a manner to make emotional appeals to customers. Second, they serve to strengthen, rather reinforce the existing images of the various brands of cigarettes in the market. There are different modes of collecting such list of individuals, which includes events that are sponsored by the cigarette industry, sweepstake forms, signed coupons as well as brand-loyalty program orders. These listings more often than not include some form of a response mechanism, which invites recipients to fill out surveys for example, or mention their lifestyle preferences. A statistic covering the US cigarette industry with particular reference to the role of direct mail reveals that there has been general rising trend in the use of direct mail in the United States. Brief on the 6 largest US cigarette manufacturers showed that they collectively spend a staggering amount of US 133.9 million dollars on direct mail in 2001. This was an increase of 131.8 present from the figures of 1998. One may note that these huge figures do not include sums spent on coupons or specialty items distributed through the mail system. (USFTC, 2002) A survey carried out by a team of doctors at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, in the United States provided for results which convincingly proved that direct mail in the cigarette vending industry not only enhanced initiation, but effectively raised the chances for potential smokers. This survey comprised of some 3900adults, and primarily focused on the answer to 3 questions. (University of Medicine and Dentistry NJ, 2002; SUDAAN, 2001) Questionnaire for the Survey Did any of the participant receive direct mail from a tobacco company within the last 6 months, including magazines, coupons, or catalogues. Did any of the participants use a coupon to buy cigarettes. Did any of the participants save any UPC codes, or tokens from any brand-loyalty programmes of a tobacco manufacturer. Results of the Survey The results of the above questionnaire from the selected adult participants showed that the current range of smoking populations were4 to 5 times more likely to have received direct mail within the past 6months as compared to those who had never smoked before or were belonged to the former smoking community. Second, the survey showed that smokers who had quit smoking in the last 12 months were 2 to 4 times more likely to receive direct mail as compared to those who had never smoked or those who belonged to the former smoking community. The survey also revealed that the white populations as compared to other groups of populations topped the list of individuals receiving direct mail offers for cigarettes or related material in aid of marketing for a given brand of cigarette. The use of coupons was found to be the highest amongst the female smoking community, white adults as well as those falling within the age group of 25 and 64 years. Similarly, saving for programs such as brand-reward programs was also found to be highest amongst current population of smokers, white segment of the population as well as the those falling within the age bracket of 18 and 24 years. Discussion on the Findings and Literature Review The above findings significantly provided evidence that direct mail served to increase the consumption of cigarettes, and subsequently ‘impede cessation. The said survey also found that coupons delivered through the direct mail to individuals were originally designed to bring about a reduction in prices of cigarettes, as well as simultaneously offset the impact of rise in taxes and other control measures levied by respective authorities. It was also found that programs offered through direct mail, such as brand-loyalty programs were intended to reward and encourage smokers through offer for additional purchases. The survey also revealed that direct mail marketing for cigarettes was originally designed to restrict switching of brands amongst customers. However, this strategy was only cover-up, and instead such direct mail offers allowed and in fact assisted smokers to continue smoking. The above literature review and survey on the role of direct mail on the cigarette vending industry shows numerous legislations, public campaigns against smoking, proven addictive behaviours resulting in serious health repercussions and rising awareness levels against thrill effects of smoking all have somewhat forced cigarette manufacturing companies the world over to adopt direct mail strategies. These direct mail strategies not only provide smokers with appealing and inviting messages; they move a step further and offer rewards for smoking. Direct mail also offers an excellent mode of communicating directly with customers, which is all too easily disguised and more than hidden from the piercing scrutiny of the public health community. It is also an effective strategy against rising restrictions on the different and traditional modes of advertising. In this respect a direct mail marketing plan of the world renowned Philip Morris also notes that direct mail is indeed one of the infl uencing factors in the use and consumption of cigarettes. (Slade, 2001; Strategic Plan, 1995) The above literature review and survey also reveals though direct mail is only one of the many marketing techniques adopted by cigarette vending industry, it is undoubtedly one which is witnessing continuous growth pattern, and one that is likely to grow in the future as well. The use of direct mail strategy is all the more worthy of concern as the cigarette vending industry is witnessed to continually change its marketing strategies in response to rising set of legislations and public opinion. It also a proven fact that practically all those involved in cigarette vending industry pursue a marketing strategy with a singular objective; one which aims to encourage initiation and consumption in smoking cigarettes. To curb such efforts, and to bring about a control for restricting such marketing strategies including direct mail, there is an ever-demanding need to fully comprehend marketing tactics utilized by cigarette vending industry. Included in these efforts is removal of the names of the individuals from the list maintained by cigarette vending industry by the smokers themselves as they decide to quit smoking. The exposure of probable intent on the part of cigarette vending industry and possible effects of such direct mail strategies along with measures, which serve as potential triggers, such as the presence of ashtrays, should also be taken into account. (Fiore et al, 2000; King, 2001) 2nd Literature Review In continuation with our dissertation on the effectiveness of direct mail on the cigarette vending industry, yet another research carried out by Lynn McFadden of the University of Strathclyde and published in the British Medical Journal issue of March 2001 is presented here. This research uncovers young peoples awareness about marketing strategies adopted by cigarette vending industry and their involvement and association with their smoking behaviours. One of the most successful methods of direct mail marketing is one, which is carried out at the point of sale. It is the venue of point of sale where a number of cigarette vending industrialists tend to focus, as also evident in the research findings of the University of Strathclyde. The research comprised of some 629 young people, aged between the ages of 15 and 16, and all of who had opted to be a part of the research through a postal consent procedure. The focus of the research, as also stated in the preceding lines waste examination of young peoples awareness of and involvement with cigarette marketing. The research also sought to determine the level of association, if any, amongst the group of young people between the level of awareness and the their smoking behaviours. The overall findings of the above research comprising of young people revealed an extra-ordinary high level of awareness and equally high levels of involvement of young people in the marketing strategies of cigarette vending industry. Out of the 629 participants involved in the research, some 95 present of them were more than aware of the various advertising techniques utilized by the cigarette vending industry, as also aware of the various methods utilized in the point of sale marketing. Thus, both the aspects, those of awareness and involvement with cigarette vending industry were strongly found to be related with being a smoker. This was more than proven from the statistics derived in the said research. For example out of the group of some 185 participants, 55 or a huge 30 present of the research participants admitted that they had received free gifts through coupons attached with the cigarette packs. A comparison with non-smoking community showed that only 11 present or 21 out of 199 participants had received fee gifts through coupons in the cigarette packs. Furthermore, it was also revealed in the same set of researches that aside from the awareness element about coupon schemes, participates were also equally aware about brand stretching and tobacco marketing, all of which were linked in some way or the other with their smoking habits. (DOH, 1992;Atiken et al, 1987; Led with, 1984; Charlton et al, 1997; Altman et al,1996; Aitken et al, 1991) The above research thus concluded the young populations aged 15 and16 were not only fully aware on the various aspects of cigarette marketing including direct mail and marketing at the point of sales; they were also more than associated with the different cigarette vending industries in the marketing of cigarettes and both the awareness and involvement in the marketing were linked with their smoking status and habits. These findings also called for a more stringent set of statutory legislations, as compared to the otherwise voluntary regulations which are primarily designed to protect these teenagers, and which have become somewhat ineffective. Other findings from the above carried out researches revealed and established the fact that the role of the mass media in advertising encouraged smoking amongst the younger populations. From a purely economics perspective, the same findings showed that expenditure on advertising pointed towards an increase in the prevalence, while a drop in the expenditures on advertising resulted in the subsequent drop in the prevalence of cigarette consumption, thereby proving a direct relationship between advertising and consumption of cigarettes. These studies focusing on the younger population showed that teenagers smoking cigarettes are more likely to appreciate as also be aware of the tobacco and cigarette advertising related sponsorships, merchandising and vending. In line with such studies, other cohort studies on the same segment of teenage smoking populations resulted in similar results and furthermore predicted a tendency of future smoking behaviours amongst the researched populations. (DOH, 1992; Aitken et al,1987; Led with, 1984; Charlton et al, 1997; Altman et al, 1996; Aitken al, 1991) A similar experiment involving some 2400 teenagers all aged a 15years, yet only differentiated by sex and postal addresses were taken for a research project from an area in the North of England. These teenagers were invited to participate in the research programme after due consent from their parents/guardians with the primary objective of deriving some 280 smokers from the total lot of participants. With response rate of more than 48 present, some 1062 responded to the call for invitation and studies carried out from the set of questionnaires mailed to each participant along with the consent form. The results obtained from the 1062 participant teenagers (all aged15 years) showed that one in every 5 teenager was involved in smoking,214 teenagers or 20 present of the respondents were regular smokers,825 or a huge 78 present not regular smokers, while 23 respondents or 2percent of the total respondents declined to divulge their smoking status. In continuation with the studies on the teenage smoking population, a random number of 373 respondents were gradually removed from the research list, as they were not regular smokers. The removal of these selected respondents further narrowed the research to those who were in the habit of, or were involved in smoking cigarettes. The number of respondents was now brought down from 1062, as also stated in the opening lines of these paragraphs, to 686 candidates only. These 686 teenage candidates were then interviewed through a team of professional interviewers, who were in turn instructed to make at least4 clear attempts to gain positive research results. The interviewers were not given any prior information as the status of smoking habits of the interviewed candidates so as to derive a transparent set of findings. Here too, the permission of the parents/guardians was sought prior to the interview, as well as a 5-Pound gift voucher was also handed to each candidate. In carrying out the above research 629 out of the total 686respondents were successfully interviewed. Those who were left out did so due to the passage of time, as by the time the research was concluded, the respondents had entered their 16th year, whereas the entire team of research candidates belonged to the 15 year old age bracket only. Each of the candidates was given two sets of questionnaires; one included a face to face interview with the teenage candidate, while the candidate in the presence of their guardians/parents filled out the second questionnaire. One may note that there was no influence of the parents presence on the part of the respondent teenagers. Each of the questionnaires resulted in the awareness, as well as the involvement of the candidates with the different techniques used in the marketing by the cigarette vending industry including direct mail marketing. The findings of the research revealed the smoking habits/status of the teenage candidates, their future intentions for smoking, education levels, and smoking by their peers, siblings, and whether their parents smoked or not. (DOH, 1992;Atiken et al, 1987; Led with, 1984; Charlton et al, 1997; Altman et al,1996; Aitken et al, 1991) A detailed analysis of the awareness element of the teenage group interviewed showed that in comparison to the non-smoking teenage population, those who smoked cigarettes were more than aware of practically all forms of marketing techniques including direct mail marketing. Information from the respondents showed that teenagers involved in smoking were also fully aware of the different types, but also knew about advertisements in magazines, newspapers, special price schemes, and offers for cigarettes. In addition, majority of the smoking teenage population had witnessed advertising on billboards, where more than fifty present of those interviewed had read about some form of cigarette marketing in the press. Also included were advertisements and marketing at point of sales, coupon schemes, and special price offers for cigarettes. Other findings from the research of the 15 year old teenagers revealed that 20 present of the said teenage population had witnessed some form of brand stretching, which included clothing or other items with logos of famous brands of cigarettes, new pack designs, the different and attractive nature and size of the cigarettes, free gifts offered through cigarettes, competitions, and watching famous personalities smoking in films and on television. Though at a lower level, there was awareness on the various promotional mails from cigarette vending industry, distribution of free cigarettes, and to some extent from the network, or the Internet. Thus, it was observed that young smokers were more than fully aware of practically all forms of cigarette marketing techniques including direct mail, in comparison to non-smokers or those who had tried to join the smoking populations. The awareness on the marketing aspect on the part of the teenage populations was more noticeable where free gifts, special price offers, promotional mail, and newer forms of cigarette packs and designs. Marketing of Cigarettes and Role of Teenagers As also stated in the above researched teenage smoking group, there was significant evidence to suggest the involvement and role of teenagers in the marketing of cigarettes including both direct mail and coupon schemes. It was also revealed there was little difference amongst male and female teenagers both of who participated somewhat equally in the marketing of cigarettes. A statistical break-up of the smoking teenager population and the non-smoking teenagers showed that more than fifty present of the smoking populations amongst the teenagers had willingly participated in one or other form of marketing for cigarette companies. In comparison, some 25 present of non-smokers and those who had tried smoking had also participated in some form of marketing for cigarettes. The above research on the teenage smoking population also showed that some 33 present of those interviewed had received free gifts through coupons schemes; another 25 present were in receipt of the special price offers for cigarettes, and a smaller 10 present of the teenage population had received free gifts through direct mail schemes at events organized by the cigarette vending company or received the same through promotional mail schemes. The above findings thus conclusively show that there is a more than strong relationship between awareness of each cigarette marketing technique and current smoking status while variable linked with teenage smoking are held constant. In particular, the awareness of coupon schemes and brand stretching are one way or the other linked to the enhanced probability of the individual being a current smoker, as also with having friends who smoke, siblings, or either parent being smoker. In this study, having friends as smokers was found to be a great influencing factor with the individual being a current smoker. The number of marketing techniques also varied and left a positive mark on the current smoking status and habit of the teenagers interviewed. Hereto, the presence of a close friend, either parent, or siblings was directly associated with an enhanced probability factor for a current smoker. A break up of the different marketing techniques to which the teenage populations are exposed show that package design or price promotion account for a larger exposure, as compared for example brand stretching and shop advertising, the latter of which had little or no effect on the teenage segment of the smoking population. In spite of the above findings, a common factor to emerge was that the young populations was observed to receive some form of benefit, reward, or reassurance from either of the cigarette vending industries; hence a reinforcement of smoking habits, or promotion of smoking amongst the teenage populations. These research more than confirms the need for a stronger set of legislation and laws. The research also calls for an equally tighter set of controls on the marketing techniques adopted by the cigarette vending industries across the United Kingdom. It also proves that the current voluntary form of regulations primarily designed to protect would be smokers, new smokers, and in particular teenage and younger populations are failing, and there is a greater and crucial need for revision of the same. The British Tobacco Advertising and Promotion Bill should be so designed to comprehensively ban some of the most famous forms of marketing such as coupon and brand stretching; the ban should move a step further and outlaw practically all forms and modes of marketing by the cigarette vending industry. Laws, Regulations and Loopholes Exploited by the Cigarette Vending Industry by Marketing/Promotion of Cigarettes This section of the dissertation will address some of the applicable laws and regulations presently levied in the United Kingdom as well as through the directives of the European Union for all member states respectively. It will also take into account the various loopholes and exploiting measures employed by the cigarette vending industry, as they bypass or practically ignore effective regulations to promote the sale of cigarettes, including various forms of direct mail, as also the subject of our above dissertation. One of the first sets of regulations is the European Union Directive98/43/EC, which was duly accepted as a law as of 30th July 1998. Theseus Directive specifically called for minimal tobacco advertising inside the shops. Though the directive contains a summary and overview of the measures and timetable for the implementation of the directive, the salient feature of this directive calls for member government of the European Union including United Kingdom to ban all forms of commercial communication as well as sponsorships, both of which primarily aim actor influence the promotion of tobacco products. An overview of the above said directive shows that though this covers vast area of advertising, and is largely utilized by the cigarette/tobacco vending industry to promote their respective products; the objective of the directive is to bring a halt to the transfer or changeover of promotion techniques used in the marketing of cigarettes. However, the same directive is all too easily exploited through loopholes and exemptions such as those enjoyed by the sellers of tobacco only, marketing at limited point of sales, imported publications, and use of vague language. Brand Stretching One of the areas which perhaps provide as one of the largest loopholes for the cigarette vending industry in their endeavours to market their brand of cigarettes is that of brand stretching. As also discussed in detail in the above present literature reviews and researches, brand stretching is the use of non-tobacco products and services to advertise tobacco and various cigarette brands. These include for example clothes with logos of famous cigarette brands, shoes, and other items, which though are one of the means for marketing; yet in reality they serve to attract the attention of current as well as would be smoker populations alike. This directive is one step short of a total ban on all forms of advertising including such direct mail advertising as utilized by Marlboro Classics, yet it allows governments to exempt advertising where the branding is visibly different from the brand of the cigarette and where advertising is done in good faith without clarifying the actual meaning of the phrase ‘good faith. Thus, we have a loophole duly utilized by the cigarette vending industry in the form of relaxation on such advertising, and use of such phrases as good faith. 3rd Literature Review An Insight into Advertising As One of the Strongest Forms of Direct mail Marketing Strategy Used by the Cigarette Vending Industry Studies carried out by British Governments health S

Cultural Diversity in Nibelungenlied, Beowulf, and Gilgamesh :: comparison compare contrast essays

Cultural Diversity in The Nibelungenlied, Beowulf, and Gilgamesh Cultural diversity is something that mankind has experienced since the dawn of time. Different cultures and different people have different views on the same issues, and it all adds to the diversity that is life. It shows that there is something for everybody. For the most part, there is no one person saying that everyone has to be this or follow that. A person's culture is determined on how they are brought up, what country they live in, how their parents were raised, and what the people around them do and believe in. The differences in culture is what caused people of later time to believe in more that one God, something that, for the most part, is unheard of today. It lead to Feudalism and the divine right to the throne. Different people are brought up to think different things, and the things people learn as a child stick with them forever. Culture is also based on choice, and every person has the choice to do whatever makes them happy. So much is know about culture now becaus e it has been recorded in books such as Gilgamesh, Beowulf, and The Nibelungenlied. Three different books displaying cultural views from three different time periods. And it is with works like these that modern scholars and historians can examine what the people and times were like back then. Two books with a similar time period were those of The Nibelungenlied and Beowulf, both placed in 6th century Europe, one based in England and the other in Germany. Both cultures had a history of war, almost a passion for it. The English had no fear for what they might battle, and knew the consequences like every skilled knight should: "However great an army we take, the Queen has such dreadful ways that they would all have to die through her arrogance." (The Nigelungenlied, Ch. 6, pg. 54) But knights had to know the risk involved in being one of the best, and the sacrifices that needed to be made to put their country on top. And it has been shown that both cultures took pride in their work: "Then the king ordered eight gold-bridled horses to be led onto the floor, into the enclosure; on one of them was a saddle skillfully decorated, ornamented with jewels." (Beowulf, lines 1036-1038). It can be seen in both Beowulf and The Niblungenlied that the quest for expansion of one's country is one of importance.

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Memo requesting funding for college-level writing course Essay

Memo requesting funding for college-level writing course Essay Memo requesting funding for college MEMORANDUM Arthur Banks, Supervisor 23 September Request for Funding to Attend an Advanced Business Writing Excellent writing skills are significant for success in the workplace and within the organization. Numerous managers and employers admitted, however, that poor writing skills are some of the problems afflicting their departments and organizations. Poor writing skills can make it hard for companies to send their messages to their target audiences. It could lead to confusion among stakeholders and may unwittingly result in company litigations. Employees can take advanced business writing courses to boost their analysis and writing skills and become experts in writing business documents. In line with these business needs, I would like to request for funding to attend an Advanced Business Writing Course. It is an online business course from the University of Maryland University College (UMUC). It should be noted that it is quite a comprehensive study of applied business writing. Its primary goal is to help students create documents that fit the audience and organizational goals. The resulting documents are clearly written and well-argued, as needed. Some of the topics are the following: purpose, audience, style, format, results, and strategies of persuasion and synthesis. The benefits of an Advanced Business Writing Course to the organization will come in form of reduced expenses and greater revenues. 1. Greater company savings. Savings can be attained from excellent writing skills. The company does not need to hire freelance or contract writers to complete vital writing projects. I can write these documents myself using the skills I learned from the course. 2. Avoidance of litigation results. Skilled business writers know how to conduct research on laws and write specifically in respect of these laws. I can use the right words, format, and style that can deter other companies or individuals from filing lawsuits against us. 3. Excellent communication means more business, more revenues. Personally, this course will turn me into a more astute communicator in the workplace. It will help me advance in the company ladder. With these strong writing skills, I bring the company to advancement too through the following outcomes. 3.1 Flexibility. This course will train me to write for different purposes and audiences. I can customize the documents to appropriately and effectively meet the goals of the organization and needs of the audiences. 3.2 Relevance. Excellent writers use language and style that are fresh and relevant to their audiences. This course will teach me to hook my audience and persuade them to believe in and support our company and products. 3.3 Persuasiveness. The company will benefit from my completion of this course because my solid writing skills will form convincing documents that can help us get additional funding, shareholders, customers, and employees. I genuinely believe that this course will help me contribute to the further success of the company. If given the funding, I will maximize this course in ensuring that my learned expert communication skills will serve the interests of the organization. Sincerely,

How Does Poverty Affect Worldwide Development Essay Essays

How Does Poverty Affect Worldwide Development Essay Essays How Does Poverty Affect Worldwide Development Essay Essay How Does Poverty Affect Worldwide Development Essay Essay How does poverty impact worldwide development and the usage of the Millennium Development Goals? The Millennium Development Goals ( MDG’s ) are a group of ends created by the U. N. set to be achieved globally by 2015. There are eight different ends runing from Gender Equality to Environmental Sustainability. The first end is ‘To eradicate Extreme Poverty and Hunger’ and more specifically. Halve. between 1990 and 2015. the proportion of people whose income is less than $ 1 a twenty-four hours. By 2005. the planetary poorness rate declined from 46 % in 1990 to 27 % . Besides. the figure of people in developing parts populating on less than $ 1. 25 ( US ) a twenty-four hours declined from 1. 8 billion in 1990 to 1. 4 billion in 2005. This was really encouraging to the U. N. but so. the fiscal crisis hit. The economic crises sparked big diminutions in exports and slowed trade worldwide. Thankfully. the overall poorness rate is still expected to fall to 15 per cent by 2015. This translates into around 920 million people populating under the poorness line which is half the figure in 1990. –Singapore Singapore is most surely a developed state as it has a flourishing economic system and has completed every MDG. When the Millennium Development Goals were created in 2000. Singapore was already a really developed state and one of the biggest powers in Asia. One of Singapore’s chief trades is touristry. and in 2010. Singapore welcomed 11. 6 million visitants. which generated 18. 8 billion dollars. In the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report released by the World Economic Forum. Singapore emerged top in the Asia-Pacific part. and was ranked tenth out of 139 universe economic systems for fight of the touristry sector. This merely goes to demo that Singapore is a cardinal participant in the universe touristry sector and is up the top with Switzerland. Germany. France and Canada. There is really small informations about poorness in Singapore as it can merely be found in a little figure of instances instead than 10s of 1000s of people. That being said. Singapore does hold many hapless and stateless people. Sadly. they are normally the aged seeking to look after themselves by busking or selling points off the streets. The Singapore authorities has implemented different action programs to counter this job and has public assistance plans that can assist people in despairing demand. Presently nevertheless. there are merely 3000 households qualify. The mean household income was at S $ 7. 214 in 2010. which is more than plenty for a household to afford basic necessities. However this information may non be accurate at stand foring the state of affairs. The figure may hold been lifted significantly by the affluent locals and exiles populating here. What this does is cover the fact that there may be households populating on much less that stated. –Cambodia Cambodia is recognised as a underdeveloped state and needs aid in finishing MDG figure 1. Cambodia has a deficiency of natural resources and a crude industrial base doing agribusiness to be a cardinal portion in its economic system. Rice provides the basic diet and was Cambodia’s major export before 1970. Cambodia’s current GDP is $ 30. 13 Billion U. S and the mean income is $ 2000 U. S. This statement does non make the state of affairs in Cambodia any justness. The people of Cambodia ( normally in rural countries ) suffer from 31 % of the population being under the poorness line. This means that they live on less than $ 1. 25 U. S a twenty-four hours. From 2003. when the Government of Cambodia commenced the MDG’s. Cambodia has made good advancement in some ends and really limited in others. While there has been a important betterment in poorness rates in urban countries. the rates are still really high in rural countries. Implementing MDG figure 1 would greatly better the lives of the Cambodians. In 1990. it is estimated that 29 % of Cambodia was below the ‘Dollar a Day’ rate before falling to 19 % in 2004. Poverty has stalled the development of Cambodia as the precedence of the authorities is focused on the people in poorness. To finish the MDG’s particularly end figure 1. would be really good for the Cambodians as the authorities could concentrate on developing the different trades and work on making a safer. sustainable and productive hereafter. Comparison Singapore and Cambodia are both located in South East Asia. but there are some major differences between them. For illustration. Singapore has completed all of the 8 development ends. while Cambodia has merely completed merely one to day of the month. Singapore’s G. D. P is $ 292. 4 ( US ) Billion compared to Cambodia’s $ 30. 13 Billion ( US ) . Singapore is ranked 41st for G. D. P in the universe compared to Cambodia at 108th. In the Human Development Index. Singapore is ranked twenty-seventh compared to Cambodia’s 124th. The Human Development Index ( HDI ) is a comparative step of life anticipation. literacy. instruction and criterions of life for states worldwide. There are many different methods of comparing the two states and in about all of them. Singapore and the other developed states will be higher ranked. That is why we must globally concentrate on assisting the development states and the Millennium Development Goals are a great system for placing and work outing the issues that are faced. How we can assist Poverty and Hunger can do big jobs in development and they need to near globally. This does non intend though. that the lone people that can assist are authoritiess. charities and big corporations. No. persons are able to assist in many ways. From simple things like donating money to a charity or raising consciousness to forming a full blown fund-raising event. Every idea and contribution counts. Due to technological progresss and increased popularity of societal webs in recent old ages. a new window of chance for consciousness and contribution has been created. Facebook is an illustration. Presently. the web site can tout the figure of ranks is over 1 billion users. This is a monolithic mark audience and provides easy methods of consciousness. Simple thoughts such as making a group or a page supplying information and consciousness on a chosen M. D. G or charity. so ask foring your friends who so pass it on. Another interesting web site is http: //www. freerice. com/ . This website gives the user inquiries on a assortment of subjects and provinces that they will donate 10 grains of rice to the World Food Program whenever you answer the inquiry right. This is possible through the usage of patrons on the page. This is a great thought and it allows users to hold a sense of physically

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Gap Analysis - Essay Example Through continuing education courses, I can help build my knowledge base and improve my job skills and this is important in strengthening my abilities in my profession. Texas Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (TLETS) policy and procedures training certification is required to be completed within six months of employment. My certification is very significant since it enhances my commitment to advanced work practice. Good communication skills are a requirement in my profession when interacting with clients as well as co-workers. I have acquired the skills to communicate ideas and instructions clearly and concisely from several communication courses. Good communication skills will significantly help in my career development and job placement. Networking is also a requirement in my profession. My work involves coordination with facilities, agencies and the community to prepare and facilitate the implementation of an informed plan of supervision. Virtually, networking can strengthen and expand my profession through collaboration with other dimensions related to

Causes and impacts of the UK currency devaluation Essay

Causes and impacts of the UK currency devaluation - Essay Example ng the currency with the fourth highest trading volume in the foreign exchange market behind the US dollar, the euro, and the Japanese yen respectively (Pan). The sterling has been generally regarded as one of the high value based currency reserves of the world. Its value, in respect to the other currencies, has been on the higher side. This has been because of various reasons, one of the main being the good and reliable financial markets that the United Kingdom is able to offer to investors worldwide. Due to the stability within the UK, and the ensuing level of trust, it has been able to attract massive inflows because of the bourses and financial markets, particularly in London, providing burgeoning returns. The high value further, allowed greater consumption by the people of the United Kingdom, allowing greater imports and out of country vacations. The current financial crisis however sees the Pound Sterling being drastically devalued. In recent months, the Sterlings decline in value in relation to the euro is interpreted by economists and some political elements within the United Kingdom as evidence of diminishing faith in the British economy on worldwide currency markets. Political elements, especially those belonging to the liberal side have rushed to blame the policies of the Prime Minister Gordon Brown for the collapse in the Sterling’s value (Heffer). Sources close to the treasury hinted that the decision in the pre-Budget report to increase borrowing to fund reduction in taxes had led to a downturn in economic confidence and thus had affected willingness of people to spend, ultimately leading to the drop in the Pound. A Liberal Democrat Treasury spokesman observed that while the decrease in interest rates had been the main reason behind the fall in the sterling’s value, it was supplemented by the expectation that the rates would decline even further (Heffer). The sterling fell almost 17 per cent compared with the euro in 2008 as the Bank of England