Social Change Within Society and Culture free essay sample

Culture Culture refers to the knowledge, ways of thinking, feeling and behaving that give each society its coherence and its distinctive way of life. Culture is demonstrated by the beliefs, customs, values, laws, arts, technology and artefacts people generate and use as the interpret meaning from their world and solves present and future problems. Environment Every society is located in a particular physical setting. The attitudes and values people have in regard to their environment greatly affect interactions between the person, society, culture and environment. Environments present societies with opportunities and restraints. Time Every person, society and environment is located in time and is changing through time. Our perceptions of time as past, present and future are also important for social enquiry and action. These perceptions draw on past events that influence our present. They need not determine our future. We can perceive a range of possible future that can assist our decision-making. We will write a custom essay sample on Social Change Within Society and Culture or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Power involves a capacity to influence others to follow a course of action or point of view they would not otherwise follow. Authority Authority implies a legitimate use of influence/persuasion. Someone in authority has accepted rights to make decisions regardless of those affected by the decisions opinion. Gender refers to the socially constructed differences between men and women. Its refers to the value society places on those physical and biological differences. It may mean that a society accepts males as tough and boisterous, while females are accepted as sensitive and shy. These beliefs only have meaning because a society gives them one, not because they are based on fact. Technology Technology means the tools that make tasks easier, enhancing the natural ability of persons to perform those tasks. Technology is not accessed equally across the world and countries and companies with higher access to higher levels of technology are able to produce more products quickly and distribute them more efficiently. Core Concepts Empowerment used to describe groups within a society gaining access to power structures and being able to assert some control over their destiny. Globalisation describes the emergence of a global culture brought about by a variety of social and cultural developments such as, the existence of world information systems, the emergence of a global pattern of consumption and consumerism. It involves the consciousness of the world as a single place. Heritage refers to the collective past of a country. It may be physical heritage (materials or remains) or cultural heritage (songs, stories or music). It also plays a role in maintaining continuity. Industrialisation refers to the transition in methods of production that has been responsible for increasing wealth, creating capacity of modern societies compared to traditional systems. I may refer to manufacturing, agriculture and administration. Modernisation the adoption of new technology education and ways of thinking. A process of social change from the adoption of characteristics of a advanced society through societies that are less advanced. Westernisation A method and values of western industrial capitalism are the basis of changes occurring. A country adopts the values common in major western countries, USA, UK, Australia. These values include democracy, capitalism, and the adoption of free market economic industrialisation. Research Methodologies Social and Cultural Research the way we go about finding out things we dont know in the area of society and culture. It normally involves selecting a specific topic, deciding on the most appropriate methodologies, collecting data interpreting your results and presenting your findings. Quantitative research involves methodologies such as surveys, which enable you to collect data that can be turned into graphs, tables and diagrams. An advantage of measurable research is that it makes it easy to compare with other research. Qualitative research Qualitative research relies upon open ended questionnaires that are unstructured. Interviews and participant observation. The data you collect is normally personal opinions and require interpretation. Methodologies Adv Disadv Survey Uses observation or a questionnaire. It is a process of conducting a study from a representative sample of specific populating. Must be comprised of closed questions, multiple choice and rating scale. Closed questions Open questions †¢ Easier to interpret †¢ Minimal cost †¢ Many responses †¢ anonymity †¢ Cant elaborate †¢ little flexibility †¢ May misinterpret †¢ survey not returned by certain time. Case Study Case Study involves the collection of data related to an individual or small group through observation, interviews or evidence. Fairly detailed accurate info †¢ can get very involved †¢ research may be bias †¢ limited by the resources available to researcher Participant Observation Researcher is immersed in the action being observed but their role as researcher is not obvious. Researchers must be aware of ethical implications. †¢ requires researcher to reflect †¢ indepth, detailed à ¢â‚¬ ¢ participant may be self conscious †¢ difficult for researcher to get involved †¢ alter behaviour Content Analysis The study and interpretation of written and visual material. †¢ useful for range of cultural data †¢ very current info †¢ material shows bias very time consuming Focus Group A small group who (indepth) discuss a topic. Researcher records information. It is similar to interview but with up to eight people. †¢ Provides good qualitative information. †¢ Dynamic responses †¢ Lots of ideas †¢ difficult to select right participants †¢ difficult for group to trust each other Action Research Informal, qualitative, requires all participants to be collaborative researchers. People who recognise a problem in a workplace situation and devise a solution. †¢ Very accurate †¢ many ideas, updated †¢ researcher very involved †¢ Time consuming †¢ Confusing difficult to obtain conclusions. Personal Reflection Requires the researcher to reflect upon and evaluate their own experiences, memories, values and opinions in relation to specific issue or topic. †¢ Reflecting on own experiences †¢ Evaluating personal matters †¢ may cause friction with difficult issues †¢ personal bias Questionnaire Collecting data from a large and diverse sample of people. It is impersonal and contains clear questions worded simply to avoid confusion. Should be brief, logical sequence of questions †¢ minimal cost †¢ wide responses quickly †¢ anonymous †¢ Failure to receive responses little flexibility †¢ Misinterpret question Interview Interview may be structured, semi structured or unstructured indepth or conversational. This is a one on one situation that is time consuming. Structured very specific Unstructured broad, general Semi-structured open and closed †¢ quick and easy †¢ detailed and indepth †¢ can change questions to suit situation †¢ fl exible, quick †¢ time consuming †¢ not indepth †¢ difficult to analyse †¢ may be confusing †¢ difficult to analyse Observation Involves watching and recording behaviour within a clearly defined area. The researcher may be passive observer and outside the actions being observed and recorded. †¢ identity of person is known †¢ researchers reflect on situation †¢ participants alter behaviour †¢ self conscious Ethnographic Study Systematic collection of data derived from direct observation of everyday life of a particular society, group or subculture. This requires researchers immersion in the culture under study and is interactive process. The researcher is interested in understanding the customs and beliefs or this social group in the way of engaging in everyday life. †¢ indepth detailed †¢ researcher becomes very involved very time consuming †¢ researcher may be bias or make incorrect judgement. Statistical Analysis Examining data to interpret meaning, make generalisations and extrapolate trends. Often data come in graphical form and analysed by statistical procedures †¢ Up to date relevant information †¢ easy to graph and present †¢ info can date quickly †¢ inaccuracies when transferring info Macro and micro worlds Micro world, peers, family and school. It refers to personal experience and the ideas, insight, reflections, knowledge on life experiences of the individual which can be used to generate an understanding of the wider world. Macro world, laws, workplace, government. It refers to Public Knowledge involving history of systematic research that can be used to clarify, unify and order. Groups formed so society can function, control and organise Informal short experiences not governed by rigid rules Formal expected conduct and formalised relations Decision making formal groups have predetermined procedures. Minority groups cultural practices and appearance unlike the dominate groups making them susceptible to unequal treatment. Institution part of the structure of society, organised e. g. hurch, government, law Organisation structure within society which is set in place for e. g. business, clubs, political parties. Power and Authority POWER Institutional position power is part of a role that others see as legitimate e. g. president or judges. Property owning ones property denying access to property e. g. landlords or factory owners. Force physically removing, threatening to inflict damage e. g. physi cal harm or public humiliation. Personal qualities charm and charisma e. g. singers, religious leaders Legitimate power recognising and applying power e. g. government officials Empowerment to give power to other e. g. principles give children power to run assemblies. AUTHORITY Traditional based on birthrights unwritten rules e. g. royal family the son becomes king. Legal or rational Power legitimate by ruled defined by leader e. g. prime minister, mayor Charismatic Power legitimated by remarkable qualities attributed to specific leader e. g. Jesus, Hitler, Martin Luther King Decision making Decision making making up your mind, deciding about something, making choices, resolving issues. Simple decision one that is easy Complex decision important, made in a group There are different types of decisions. †¢ Decisions made for you, by someone else e. g. by force or persuasion. †¢ Automatic Decisions, dont think about it, its instinctive. †¢ Quick Decision, made without alot of though, impulsively. †¢ Thoughtful Decision, perhaps made after discussing it with a friend or parent. †¢ Group Decision, reached only after much though and decision involving other people. We live ion a democratic society, we participate in decision making which affects us and our families e. g. casting votes at elections when we are 18, joining groups and committees. There are decisions that are out of our control as adults. Decisions are affected by, influence, power and authority, compromise, conflict, consultation and imposition, winners and loser, available resources and vested interests. All families have needs and wants, requiring many different decisions to be made. Most decisions within family unit are made by adults. Yet this is changing. decision making is an ongoing process, we make decisions all the time, as individuals and in groups. A simple way to decide is to write down the advantages and disadvantages. The Nature of Social and Cultural Continuity and Change Identifying the nature of social and cultural continuity and change CONTINUITY Continuity persistence of cultural elements in a society. new ideas are developed and grafted onto old ideas. Continuation of social groups, forms of interaction, customs, beliefs e. g. Alphabet, process or paper making. Conformity is the strongest where some of these conditions are evident in a society. †¢ Vested interest †¢ Change resisted by fear †¢ Loss of power or wealth †¢ Rigid caste systems †¢ Strongly help beliefs, do nit share others values Psychological barriers, resistance due to tradition Ethnocentrism; passing judgement on attitudes and lifestyles in other societies. We tend to believe our own society is superiors because of long term direct experience. This assists group loyalty however it can lead to barriers in accepting features of other societies. This relates to conformity and continuity rather than change . Suspicion, prejudice and stereotyping are all parts of Ethnocentrism. Cultural relativity; helps stop ethnocentrism, cultural relativity requires an act, that should be regarded positively and forfills needs of a society. Elements of society are continuous †¢ Hereditary value (language spoken) †¢ Standardized behavior (driving on the right side of the road) Theory of cultural lag Developed by William Ogburn, the theory argues attitudinal aspects of culture, lag behind when change first occurs in the material aspect of culture e. g. computers. Continuity and socialisation Continuity is part of the socialisation process. Socialisation transmits culture from generations, it is an informal process of learning values, norms, and skills observed and participation e. g. rules set by law ad religious beliefs. CHANGE Change constant element in life, significant alteration in patterns of culture and social structure that are reflected in social behavior. Change is a constant element in social life. All societies experience social change, a significant alternation in the patterns of culture an social structures that are reflected in social behavior. Some societies, like small tribes change slowly due to isolation, while other like the United States change rapidly. Social Change refers to; †¢ Identity of change, what changes †¢ Level of change, level in an individual, group or society †¢ Rate of change, sudden or gradual Direction of change, will it improve or get worse †¢ Magnitude of change, comprehensive, revolutionary In order to appreciate the degree and nature of change we must have a level of stability or baseline against which to measure, Change is not uniform. Not all cultural and social elements change at the same rate. Factors that influences change include; †¢ E nvironmental conditions †¢ Isolation †¢ Available resources †¢ Population †¢ Political organisations †¢ Cultural factors †¢ Leaders and entrepreneurs Innovation Innovation, change occurred when people think of new ways of doing things. Technological innovation are, cars which changed the structure of cities, mobile phones which increased communication, internet world wide communication, planes. Cultural innovations are new beliefs and values systems, religions. Social Innovations are bureaucratic organisation which enable people to cope with the demands of present day society. CHANGE CAN SPREAD Diffusion Diffusion is the movement of ideas form one society to another examples of this are; †¢ Domestication of animals †¢ Invention of machines, industrial revolution †¢ Invention of siliconchip. Closeness to centres of invention is important because new ideas is adversely proportional to distance, the more isolated the slower the development. Media and transportation reduced isolation and help speed up innovations, culture value shows this. Diffusion can be planned e. g. economic aid to third world countries. Acculturation Acculturation is the adoption of new ideas, values by one culture to another because of prolonged interaction. Acculturation is rapid, through direct contact, migration, military and missionaries. Examples are worker in India taken to Fiji, missionaries living in Indigenous areas. Acculturation is a two way process; 1) Transculturation Two cultures take ideas from one another, one is dominant. 1) Involuntary acculturation One culture has political control and forces the other society to accept its ideas. Collective Behavior Collective Behavior is unpredictable behavior of groups when working outside societies recognized institutions. Types of collective behavior include; †¢ Panics †¢ Conventional crowds e. g. marches, rallies †¢ Acting crowds e. g. mobs, riots †¢ Rumors; untrue reports spread via collective behavior †¢ Fad, short lives †¢ Fashion Public opinion; ideas and attitudes shared by member of the public. Institutional Behavior is predictable patterns, regulated by traditional norms. The nature of continuity Continuity of the persistence of social and cultural elements with a society e. g. social group of family and peers. Continuities with Australia include; †¢ Anzac Day, Australia day †¢ Melbourne Cup †¢ Vegemite †¢ Schoolies week †¢ Year 12 formal Some societies with strongly help traditional beliefs, continuities are dominant, conformity is encourages. Few elements are added e. g traditional societies based on strong religious beliefs. Continuities persist because; †¢ We need to preserve our language, laws, morals, ethics, behavior so that our traditions last into the future. This is done through the socialisation process, we pass social continues onto generations. In the micro world this happens through family, in the macro world it is through media, government, law, education and religion. †¢ Continuities (traditions) provide security for a society to help maintain links to the pasty so there is a sense of continuity for the future. †¢ Continuity brings stability to society, t prevents chaos followed from massive change. The nature of change Change is the alteration of how things are done, the alteration in pattern of culture, social structure and social behavior over time. No society can successfully prevent change, some societies are more resistant however. The rates, nature and direction of change different from one society e. g. Australian compared to traditional pygmy society of Africa. Change occurs when people think of new ways of doing something e. g. innovations. Innovations spread by diffusion and acculturation. Change forces societies to consider traditions they wish to keep or discard. Change in societies is inevitable; †¢ can be constructive (new medicine) †¢ can be destructive (pollution) †¢ may be sudden (war or death) †¢ evolve gradually (animal extinction) We need to prepare for change. It is constant element of social life. Some changes are planned, others unplanned. They can be of a short duration (fads and fashion) or long duration (invention of cars). Some changes are readily accepted (improved health care) while other are controversial (feminist movement). Modernisation The process of change in society in terms of development to a more modern society is said to be called Modernisation. It is a process of social change resulting from diffusion and adoption of characteristics of more modern societies by societies said to be less advanced. This process involves greater social mobility, more effective government control, acceptance of innovations and changing social values. †¢ Process of Modernisation refers to economic, social and cultural changes that occur when pre industrial societies (traditional) make transition to a more advanced industrial society. †¢ major thrusts of Modernisation is industrialization. †¢ there is no end to the Modernisation process. the more modern a society Australia the more it undergoes this process. Who benefits from Modernisation †¢ many of the younger groups are willing to embrace change †¢ the educated understand and rationalize change †¢ The wealthy can afford change Who do not benefit from Modernisation †¢ The elder, unskilled, conservative christians †¢ The poor or uneducated. †¢ They see modernization a destroying traditional values. Examining the impact of continuity and change upon the lives of people in the micro and macro worlds MACROWORLD The macroworld continuities are refered to as traditions e. g. Australians love going to the beach is recognized across generations. Macroworld change operates on different levels Changes in government may cause changes in society e. g. liberal government replaced by labour (whitlam) lead to reform in fault divorce. Technological Change in the macroworld e. g. vinyl records to compact disc. Communication changes e. g. snail mail to email Organisations changed around the world, replaced with globalisation. Political power now belongs to multinational companies. Environment Continuity or change will impact the macroworld e. g. increase in global awareness, problem with depleting resources/species and atmosphere problems. Development of international domestic laws combat these changes. Microworld e. g. joining organisations such as greenpeace. Population change Macroworld size; international organisations set up to combat large populations in developing countries e. g. AID including food. Microworld size; 40 hour famine charity, donations Macroworld distribution; laws have been set up to provide infrastructure for migrants to move countries. Microworld distribution; bring different foods, languages Macroworld composition; aging population, an increase in retirement homes Microworld composition; work longer, no pension Political organisations Macroworld; type of government running the country, influences school syllabus Microworld; voting, compulsory English Leaders and change Macroworld; Howard e. g. policy on terrorism increases security. Microworld; postponement of overseas travel. Innovations Macroworld; invention e. g. internet creates global village. Laws regulate abuse of technology Microworld; easy communication access to information Acculturation/Diffusion migrants Macroworld; regulation and laws increase immigrants. Media plays role in diffusing/acculturating society Microworld; different food/religions, more culture in schools. Collective Behavior- fashion fads Macroworld; straight hair, hipster jeans Microworld; buying a muster hair straighter. Distinguishing between personal experience and public knowledge MICROWORLD Microworld; family, peers, school, sport teams, community life The world we know through personal experience. Experiences help us grow and develop as human beings. It helps us engage in personal reflection Personal experience; ideas, insight, reflection or an individual used to generate understanding of the wider world. MACROWORLD Macroworld; media, law, government, libraries, research Public knowledge collection of knowledge assembled through research from a range of personal experience knowledge is found in books, lectures, documents. Public Knowledge; socially constructed knowledge involving a history of research. It is achieved through institutions, government, religion and mass media. Role of power and authority in social and cultural continuity and change GOVERNMENT Change; government members initiate and debate new laws. Governments can change themselves after elections. Continuity; Governments maintain political stability by protecting laws that are already in place. The also maintain traditional political parties. . g. Labour, liberal and heritage and traditions e. g. anthem, Australian flag. LEADERS (politicians, religious, business) Change; can be by force e. g. Hitler, by vote e. g. John Howard, through inspiration e. g. Nelson Mandella Continuity; used their power to influence others, maintain traditions and encouraging people to believe what they them selves believe. RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS Change; some churches/religion have adjusted to contemporary society and accepted gay community, women priests, play modern music. Continuity; most churches maintain continuities through their ceremonies and beliefs. Churches are conservative, perpetuate morals, values and customs of their doctrine. EDUCATIONAL ORGANISATIONS Change; school deals with change by introducing new curriculum, latest technology and new legal rules e. g. anti-bullying. Continuity; formal assembly, uniform, orientation day, awards presented. THE FAMILY Change; in size, status, structure and roles to suit modern society. More mothers in the workforce has caused change in families. Continuity; celebrations, religious customs, relationships, the concept of family and what it means has remained constant. Theories of social change and evaluating their role in explaining continuities and changes in society. Theory is a statement that organizes a set of concepts in a meaningful way by explaining the relationship among them. A full grasp of social change needs more than an understanding of some specific factors that can provoke change. We need a broader theory that explains how, why and what direction social change in general takes place. A successful theory of social change must do more than describe events it must explain how and why change takes the form that it does. SOCIO EVOLUTIONARY THEORY Theorist Herbert Spencer and Charles Darwin The main idea of this theory is that this theory implies that all societies gradually change from traditional and simple to more complex following only one path. Modern socio theorists believe that development and change could occur in a multilinear way i. e. following several different paths, not just one. They did not believe that industrial societies were necessarily superior to rural based or traditional societies and did not view all changes as progress. Strengths; It says that societies can develop in many different ways not just one path. It believes that not all change is progress. Weaknesses; Only looks at slow change, evolution and doesnt explain quick change e. g. war, natural disaster. FUNCTIONALIST THEORY Theorist Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons This theory emphasises social order and the importance of maintaining structures and processes within society to maintain a state of equilibrium or balance. This theory says that if change occurs, its temporarily alters the balance in society, brings about adjustment or change to bring about a new equilibrium and balance once again in society. Believes social change occurs when internal or external forces upset societys balance e. unemployment, women returning to the workforce, war) All parts of society have a function, and change is a result of these functions being disturbed. In simple societies there are fewer institutions to perform functions (family, education economic production of food). In more complex societies more institutions perform functions e. g. schools provide education not family. Strengths; sh ows how society deals with change and adjusts to it Weaknesses; More about institutional order. Concentrates on destructive change. Doesnt deal well with technology, or economic change. CONFLICT THEORY Theorist Karl Marx Views conflict and change as inevitable in society and ongoing. Change is the result of inequalities in society e. g. class differences, religious differences, differences in wealth and ethnic differences. Conflict occurs between groups with power, who wish to maintain their value and prestige and those who have no power but wish to challenge the existing power structures. Strengths; Alot of change does occur through recognizes that side of society. Explains human nature, not everyone always agrees and everyone wants more power. Weaknesses; Not all change requires conflict in society. Provides little indication of future directions of change. Explore continuity and change †¢ Is all change necessarily progress? Change; an alteration in the way things are done in society Progress; improvements for the better, getting something better Therefore do all changes always lead to improvements in peoples lives in the micro and macro world. NO a culture may feel that in changing they are abandoned their traditional way of life, which may be very important to them due to e. g. religion and unplanned change e. g. war is negative, natural disasters. Also change may be forces upon a society or culture e. . The Jews under Hitler. YES change can be progress as no society would be willing to change a good life for a poorer one. Australia change to incorporate women and indigenous issues into mainstream political life. †¢ Which groups benefit from change? Which do not? Groups; people who gather together because they have something in common Benefits; gaining something good or positive. Therefore who gains something positive from change and who doesnt within the micro and macro world. THE WEALTHY benefit for change as if changes are technologically based, the wealthy can affords it and young people. Most other groups do too. MINORITY GROUPS do not benefit because they are isolated groups in society, they may not change at the same rate as society as a whole. Lower class members are unfamiliar with technology due to poverty and lack of education and fall behind in society. †¢ Are westernisation, modernisation and industrialisation inevitable? Westernisation; the process of countries adopting the practices and values of western countries, especially USA eg. fast food, music, TV. Modernisation; the process of countries moving from traditional societies (focused on ontinuities) to modern societies which accept change. Industrialisation; the process of moving from a society based on agriculture to a society based on industry as the main means of production. Are these 3 processes going to happen to all countries of the world at some stage YES, the world reflects a move towards these three processes in the system or organisation called globalisation. The influence and demands of t he World Bank to follow a western style economy to gain access to loan funds. Technology is becoming so much more prolific and affordable that everyone is exposed economic base of many countries. NO, Some countries are economically and culturally strong enough to maintain their independence from globalisation. Cuba is still an independent country despite its proximity to the US. Social and Cultural Continuity and Change in a Selected Country Apply the fundamental course concepts to that country PERSONS Individualism is not encouraged in traditional Japanese society. Persons are expected to blend in and work for the good of the group, but attitudes are changing. Until the end of second world war the interests of individuals were suppressed under a patriarchal system. he state was compared as one large family. Harmony amongst people is the basis of Japanese society. Japanese are extremely sensitive to any conflict and avoidance can be observed. Traditional Japan; authority and power was held by shoguns and were recognized as individuals. this was based on a caste system. Relationships between people was dictated by the caste system. Women non existent, position determined by th eir family. Polite and plain language. Contemporary Japan; Abolishment of caste system, rise of middle class has show growth in sense of individualism in males and females. Adolescents are expressing themselves openly, choice of career path, expectations of quality of life. relationships still reflect superior inferior status. Evidence language and bowing. Improvement in womens position, can vote, access to work. Through westernisation 2 language forms are slowing becoming one. SOCIETY Originally a feudal society with strict cast system with emperor as ruler. Warlords and Samurai kept peace in early Japan under control of shogun (military leader) Today society is governed by democratically elected monarchy. Family and peer groups are important groups in society. Traditional society Family; extended family unit, ie. Mainly subsistence farming. Ie responsible for welfare, health and education of members. Arranged marriages. Husband head of the house. Division of labour based on gender. Government; Feudal society structure around clans. Emperor nominated ruler supported by shoguns and samurais. Meiji Restoration saw movement towards democratic society. Education; reserved mainly for daimyos and nobles. peasants were educated to read, write and maths. This led to literate society. Contemporary society Family; Mainly nuclear families, some extended still exist in city due to high living costs. growth in single parents. Marriage mainly own choice/love. Gender roles in family re similar. Government; Bicameral system, emperor symbolic head of state. Constitutional democracy. responsibilities for welfare of citizens organized by government institutions e. g. social security, education, health Education; Still highly literate society, still values, key to socio economic mobility and has resulted in a highly competitive system of cram schools. Equal access, and education still instills cultural values. CULTURE The importance of Buddhism, Shintoism and Confucianism to traditional society. The importance of ceremonies like the tea ceremony. Traditional Culture; Importance of Buddhism and Shintoism to ritual; and beliefs. Confucianism reinforced the caste system, values, distribution of power and authority. Art and artifacts forces mainly on nature. Contemporary Japan; Role of religious beliefs slowly declining. Adopting of western ideas and values. Change in social habits and prefer western life e. g. Macdonald over sushi, baseball over sumo wrestling. Emergence of subculture group e. g. skinheads, rockers. Persistence of geisha both traditional and ones for tourists. ENVIRONMENT Originally closed to western world, western contact in 1850s. today a mixture of traditional Japanese environment overlaid with a westernized environment. physically environment is crowded islands and mountainous. Traditional Environment; Predominately feudal, agricultural society. Closed society, superiority, limited opportunity to exchange ideas, values and technology, pre Commodore Perry. Control over the adoption of anything foreign. Opportunity to adopt Confucian values from China thus reinforcing caste system. Contemporary Japan; Democratically elected, open society whereby western ideas, technology and culture are readily adopted through diffusion and acculturation. World leader in technology, highly industrial, major export, major importer of food and raw materials. TIME Over time Japan has experience both continuity and change. modernisation began with Western contact after WW2. every aspect of society and culture has changed over time in Japan some important traditions have remained. A historical look at Japan will allow us to view its continuities and changes and the interrelationship between time, person, society and culture. Examine the nature of traditional society and culture in that country The emperor in Japan held superior status and was fundamental to Japanese nationalism. Most of the population were farmers or craftsmen, the position of nobility being filled by influential; families. Japan was controlled by daimyos or warlords. The warrior class or samurais increased in importance as it was military strength which ensured dominance. Japan was governed by shoguns until 1868 when the old emperor Meiji was restored to power this is known as the Meiji restoration period. Under shoguns the samurais continued to gain power and were the only class permitted to carry a sword. membership to class continued to be determined by birth and ones class in turn determined ones occupation, choice of marriage partner. Outside class system were those who performed unclean task, classless, non human. Th capital of Edo was moved to Tokyo and it was mandatory for families to register with local Buddhist temples. While Shinto was traditional religion is Japan both Confucianism and Buddhism was introduced by china. The family, the traditional family unit or ie was fundamental to Japanese society. They had to honor their ancestors and maintain continuity of the family unit. Loyalty and filial duty were expected of all members who were subordinate to the head. these were Confucian principles. If there was no son to inherit the role of head then a son in law might take on the role, when there were no children adoption was an appropriate solution. In 1947 constitution which spelt the demise of the ie, choices of spouse, inheritance, property rights were changes to reflect equality of gender and rights of the individual. Within the home, religious rites were performed at the Buddhist alter in the home. Power and authority, the control of power is a feature of the history of every nation. In Japan there was a dramatic move from the centralized limited access to power structure of its feudal period to the more open and democratic practices of today. From the time of the Fujiwara period power in Japan had been in the hands of the shoguns. These were families of noble birth and exerted great influence and control over the political and military power of Japan. Towards the middle of the 19th century, the power of the shoguns began to weaken. A coup was staged by a fraction of samurai who claim to be replacing the emperor in his rightful position of power seized the control of government from the shogun and installed a new leadership. New leaders of the Meiji restoration decided to actively seek innovation and western ideas into all aspects of Japanese society. The changes that followed were reestablishing the old imperial style government. Centralizing power, downgrading the old institutions, rationalizing the bureaucracy and improving the nations military power and abolishing the feudal system of privileges. Industrialization and westernisation, establishing a constitutional democracy with a national parliament. All of this took place in thirty years During the Meiji restoration businesses had to reply on the government for the capital funds which they needed to get established. A partnership was formed which gave both business and government stability. The families which responded most quickly to the Meiji period needs accumulated immense economic control and huge industrial organisations. These financial cliques were extremely powerful. After WW2, the Zaibatsu were broken up. The American occupation of Japan after WW2 brought with its other substantial changes. A new constitution was formed, women were given the vote, education system revised, land reform program was put in place and labour unions developed. Japan had a highly valued sense of national identity and cultural heritage. these have withstood the incursion of foreigners and the rapid modernisation process which accompanied the American occupation. Japans subsequent success industrially and economically reflect her ability to sift imported values and achievement and glean only those which will prove worthwhile. There was a transformation of Japan from feudal, with rigid caste system to democratic parliament with no class system and an industrialized economy begun with the Meiji restoration and was completed with the American occupation. Evaluate the nature of power and authority in that country FAMILY AUTHORITY Traditional Family; grandfather, eldest son and father Modern Family; parents (nuclear family), in extended families it still the parents CLASS POWER Traditional society; emperor, warrior class, shogun Modern society; Based on socio economic status, democracy everyone can vote. EDUCATION AUTHORITY Traditional; best schools for wealthy, education important, limited access for women Modern; Compulsory education, women now educated, wealthy power cram schools GOVERNMENT AUTHORITY Traditional; power in hands of shoguns, nobles warriors, emperor, isolation policy Modern; Democracy, emperor still symbolic MILITARY AUTHORITY POWER Traditional; shoguns had own army, samurais power through force Modern; after WW2 US in power, use of police instead of military, Government has power over military MEDIA POWER Modern societies; TV, radio, increased access to westernisation, increased power of women, strong influence on adolescents. Apply one theory of social change appropriate to the selected country By applying the functionalist theory to social change within Japan we can see how it has occurred due to a disruption in the balance. This lead to adjustments in other parts of the system and a new equilibrium level is reached, while balance is restored. During the Tokogawa period equilibrium was maintained however change occurred through the arrival of the USA and Commodore Perry in the 1800s. This ended Japans isolation with the introduction of trade. Next the Meiji restoration period brought about adjustments such as; changed laws, generalized government under emperor, increased power of merchant class and dismantling of caste system. New balance was obtained during the 1930s and this remained till after WW2. Yet change reoccurred when Japan lost WW2 and the US initiates restructuring of all institutions. These changes were evidence through the introduction of women voting, new constitutions, education no longer based on class, shift in government causing democratic elections and production changes from agriculture to industrial production. his restored a new equilibrium up till 1980s. Change has occurred again with globalization and increased influence of western ideas and values. yet a new equilibrium was reached in 1990s. the effects of these changes are still present with the influence of female workers, decreased role for the elderly, government providing care for the elderly, increase in individualism and decrease in identi ty, changing role of the families and increased media influence. Limitations of this has been the focus on changes to institution and it doesnt take globalisation into account. The functionalist theory doesnt take globalisation into account as globalisation of a country would never allow Japan to achieve a true equilibrium. Family life and population changes Continuity is the persistence of social and cultural elements within a society. Change is an alteration is how things are done. It is the alteration in patterns of culture, social structure and social behavior over tie. In Japan, there have been many continuities and changes to family life but mostly changes due to the population. Changes to the Japanese family have occurred due to such influences as acculturation and westernisation. here have been an increase in both nuclear and single parent families, with more women entreating the workforce, leading to greater sense of empowerment. 80% of families now live in the city as opposed to rural areas and as such due to lack of space, many families are split up. More elderly are now in retirement homes, rather than being cared for at home. The function of fa mily as an institution of education and health care is now moreso in the hands of the government. There have also been many continuities in family life in japan. For example, here are still strong gender based division of labour, with the father as the breadwinner and the mother in charge of the house hold. In rural areas of Japan, the extended family is still very important with the elderly passing traditions to younger generations and the parents caring for the elderly at home. As the population is constantly changing, there are many more changes than continuities. The population in japan is ageing, meaning that there is a decrease in both birth and death rates. Due to the increase in nuclear families, such questions arise as who will take care of the elderly? A social adjustment has been necessary with the state beginning to take responsibility for elderly care, rather than the family. The main continuity in population change is that japan has remained monoculture. Imigration is discouraged due to lack of space and the Japanese wish to maintain their distinct culture and way of life. In conclusion there have been many continuities and changes in population and family life. The extended family has tried to maintain traditions in the family due to modernisation, westernisation , industrialisation and acculturation, change is inevitable. A countrys population is not static, so it is to be expected that there are many more changes, rather than continuities. Develop hypotheses for thinking about the future of Japan Feasibility study Process of defining exactly what a project is and what strategic issues need to be considered to assess its potential for success- is it probable. Scenario writing Attempt to account the good and bad possibilities based on what we know. Science fiction writing is a form of scenario writing, the writer uses their understanding of continuity and change to analyze possible futures Analyzing trends and forecasting. Involves reviewing the directions/changes being taken within society and trying to predict outcomes. Events from the past and present are projected forward based on the idea that the frequency and course of change will continue into the future. JAPANS AGING POPULATION What we know already: Traditions are not passed on, Japans population is aging, as less people are having children due to lack of space and high living costs. The death rate is also decreasing, there are more elderly living longer. Land is very expensive breakdown of traditional extended family. Problems associated with this situation: As less children are being born, there are less people to grow up to look after the increased number of elderly. As less elderly live with the extended family due to lack of space, the state needs to put more money into elderly care. the separation of children and grandparents means that fewer traditions are being passed between generations. Gap in socialization process for kids who dont live in extended families. Greater tax burden for younger generation. Possible future scenarios: The population will continue to age, with less children being born. As more families move to city areas there will be a trend towards more nuclear families. A group of young people with no understanding of the past. Couples reduce the number of children. More care facilities needed, more jobs, more cots. Forecasting changes to the society and culture: The government will encourage superannuation, so people will be able to fund their own retirement. They may still need to spend more money on elderly care for those without superannuation. Such solutions as placing preschools and retirement homes together will maintain traditions, as children will be in contact with the elderly. Shorter working hours/public holidays for family time. Encourage migration of young people. INCREASED GLOBAL CULTURAL INTEGRATION What we know already: Japan is being affected by globalisation. This impacts Japans society and culture as they are part of the global community. Westernisation, industrialisation and modernisation are also occurring, Americanization part of global tourism network, open communication and trade. Problems associated with this situation: Japans traditions may become less important. Changes in Japans economy due to changes in the worlds economy. This may attribute to the high living costs. Loss of cultural identity. Infiltration of American culture. Possible scenarios for the future: Japan may suffer future economic downfall. the country will continue to become westernized. traditions and links to the past will continue to weaken. Forecasting changes to the society and culture: Government initiatives to encourage maintenance of traditions. American/Western lifestyles become increasing common. May vary depending on generation. the elderly wish to become more traditional the young want to be more westernized. Greater access for young people to western mass media if they wish.

Free Essays on Acid Rain

One of the main causes of acid rain is sulfur dioxide. Natural sources, which emit this gas, are Volcanoes, sea spray, rotting vegetation and plankton. However, the burning of fossil fuels, such as Coal and oil, are largely to be blamed for approximately half of the emissions of this gas in the world. When sulfur dioxide reaches the atmosphere, it oxidizes to first form a sulfate ion. It then becomes sulfuric acid as it joins with hydrogen atoms in the air and falls back down to earth. Oxidation occurs the most in clouds and especially in heavily polluted air where other compounds such as ammonia and the ozone help to catalyze the reaction, changing more sulfur dioxide to sulfuric acid. The following pages will show the effects of acid rain on: Trees and Soils, Lakes and Aquatic Systems, Materials, Atmosphere, Architecture and Humans. One of the most serious impacts of acid precipitation is on forests and soils. Great damage is done when sulfuric acid falls onto the earth as rain. Nutrients present in the soils are washed away. Aluminum also present in the soil is freed and the roots of trees absorb this toxic element. Thus, the trees are starved to death as they are deprived of their vital nutrients such as calcium and magnesium. Not the entire sulphur dioxide is converted to sulfuric acid. In fact, a substantial amount can float into the atmosphere, move over to another area and return to the soils unconverted. As this gas returns to earth, it clogs up the stomata in the leaves, thus hindering photosynthesis. Research has been made where red spruce seedlings were sprayed with different combinations of sulfuric and nitric acid of pH ranging from 2.5 to 4.5. The needles of these seedlings were observed to develop brown lesions. Eventually, the needles fall off. It was also found that new needles grew more slowly at higher concentrations of acid used. Because the rate at which the needles were falling was greater than the rate at whic... Free Essays on Acid Rain Free Essays on Acid Rain Acid Rain Imagine that you are dying, simply because you ate a fish. This death is a result of acid rain. Acid rain is a silent murder in today’s ecosystems. The effects of acid rain on the ecosystem can be deadly. Acid rain is all the rain, snow, mist that falls from the sky onto our planet that contains an unnatural low pH level. It is not to be confused with uncontaminated rain that falls, for that rain is naturally slightly acidic. This acid rain is a product of today’s industry. When products are manufactured, many chemicals are used to create it. However, because of the difficulty and cost of properly disposing these products, they are often emitted into the atmosphere with little or no treatment. The term was first considered to be important about twenty years ago when scientists in Sweden and Norway first believed that acid rain may be causing great ecological damage to the planet. By the time the scientist found the problem, it was already very large. Detecting an acidic lake is often quite difficult. A lake does not become acidic over night. It happens over a period of many years, some times even decades. The changes are usually too gradual to be noticed early on. At the beginning of the 20th century most rivers and lakes, like the river Tovdal in Norway, had not yet begun to die. By 1926, local inspectors began to notice that many of the lakes were beginning to show signs of serious problems. Fish were found dead along many river banks. As winter’s ice began to melt, hundreds upon hundreds of dead fish (trout in particular) were found. It was at this time that scientist, began to search for the reason. As the scientists continued to work, they found many piles of dead fish, up to 5,000 in one pile. Divers were sent in to examine the bottom of the rivers. They found many more dead fish. Many live and dead specimens were taken back to numerous labs across Norway. When the live specimens were examined they were found t... Free Essays on Acid Rain One of the main causes of acid rain is sulfur dioxide. Natural sources, which emit this gas, are Volcanoes, sea spray, rotting vegetation and plankton. However, the burning of fossil fuels, such as Coal and oil, are largely to be blamed for approximately half of the emissions of this gas in the world. When sulfur dioxide reaches the atmosphere, it oxidizes to first form a sulfate ion. It then becomes sulfuric acid as it joins with hydrogen atoms in the air and falls back down to earth. Oxidation occurs the most in clouds and especially in heavily polluted air where other compounds such as ammonia and the ozone help to catalyze the reaction, changing more sulfur dioxide to sulfuric acid. The following pages will show the effects of acid rain on: Trees and Soils, Lakes and Aquatic Systems, Materials, Atmosphere, Architecture and Humans. One of the most serious impacts of acid precipitation is on forests and soils. Great damage is done when sulfuric acid falls onto the earth as rain. Nutrients present in the soils are washed away. Aluminum also present in the soil is freed and the roots of trees absorb this toxic element. Thus, the trees are starved to death as they are deprived of their vital nutrients such as calcium and magnesium. Not the entire sulphur dioxide is converted to sulfuric acid. In fact, a substantial amount can float into the atmosphere, move over to another area and return to the soils unconverted. As this gas returns to earth, it clogs up the stomata in the leaves, thus hindering photosynthesis. Research has been made where red spruce seedlings were sprayed with different combinations of sulfuric and nitric acid of pH ranging from 2.5 to 4.5. The needles of these seedlings were observed to develop brown lesions. Eventually, the needles fall off. It was also found that new needles grew more slowly at higher concentrations of acid used. Because the rate at which the needles were falling was greater than the rate at whic... Free Essays on Acid Rain What is acid rain? Acid rain is the term for pollution caused when sulfur and nitrogen dioxides combine with atmospheric moisture. The term 'acid rain' is slightly misleading, and would be more accurate if deemed 'enhanced acid rain', as rain occurs acidic naturally. Acidity is measured on what is know as the pH scale. Fourteen is the most basic, seven is the most neutral, and zero is the most acidic. Pure rain has a pH level of 7, which is exactly neutral. The acidity of rain is determined by the pH of pure water in reaction with atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, resulting in carbonic acid. These particles partly dissociate to produce hydrogen ions and bicarbonate ions. A bicarbonate atom is an ion formed by one hydrogen atom, one carbon at atom, and three oxygen atoms, and is very effective in natural waters at neutralizing hydrogen ions and reducing acidity. The dissociation results in the natural acidity of pure rain, which is moderately acidic at a pH of 5.7. Rain le ss than 5.7 is considered 'acid rain', meaning it has reacted with acidic atmospheric gases other than carbon dioxide, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. Sulfur dioxide is produced by electric utilities, industrial, commercial and residential heating, smelters, diesel engines and marine and rail transport, which creates sulfuric acid in rain. Nitrogen dioxide will also react with the rain, caused largely by transportation (cars, trucks, planes, etc.) and electric utilities, producing nitric acid. There is a certain degree of naturally occurring acidity in rain water. This acid is from reaction with alkaline chemicals, found in soils, lakes and stream, and can occasionally occur when a volcano erupts as well. Bacterial action in soils and degasing from oceanic plankton also contribute to the acidity found in rain. More than 90% of the sulfur and 95% of the nitrogen emissions which occur in North America are due to the pollution created by humans.1 H... Free Essays on Acid Rain Acid rain is a great problem in our world. It causes fish and plants to die in our waters. As well it causes harm to our own race as well, because we eat these fish, drink this water and eat these plants. It is a problem that we must all face together and try to get rid of. However acid rain on it's own is not the biggest problem. It cause many other problems such as aluminum poisoning. Acid Rain is deadly. WHAT IS ACID RAIN? Acid rain is all the rain, snow, mist etc that falls from the sky onto our planet that contains an unnatural acidic. It is not to be confused with uncontaminated rain that falls, for that rain is naturally slightly acidic. It is caused by today's industry. When products are manufactured many chemicals are used to create it. However because of the difficulty and cost of properly disposing of these products they are often emitted into the atmosphere with little or no treatment. The term was first considered to be important about 20 years ago when scientists in Swe den and Norway first believed that acidic rain may be causing great ecological damage to the planet. The problem was that by the time that the scientist found the problem it was already very large. Detecting an acid lake is often quite difficult. A lake does not become acid over night. It happens over a period of many years, some times decades. The changes are usually to gradual for them to be noticed early. At the beginning of the 20th century most rivers/lakes like the river Tovdal in Norway had not yet begun to die. However by 1926 local inspectors were noticing that many of the lakes were beginning to show signs of death. Fish were found dead along the banks of many rivers. As the winters ice began to melt off more and more hundreds upon hundreds more dead fish (trout in particular) were being found. It was at this time that scientist began to search for the reason. As the scientists continued to work they found many piles of dead fish, up to 5000 in one... Free Essays on Acid Rain Acid Rain Acid rain is a serious problem with disastrous effects. Each day this serious problem increases, many people believe that this issue is too small to deal with right now this issue should be met head on and solved before it is too late. In the following paragraphs I will be discussing the impact has on the wildlife and how our atmosphere is being destroyed by acid rain. Acid rain is a cancer eating into the face of Eastern Canada and the North Eastern United States. In Canada, the main sulphuric acid sources are non-ferrous smelters and power generation. On both sides of the border, cars and trucks are the main sources for nitric acid(about 40% of the total), while power generating plants and industrial commercial and residential fuel combustion together contribute most of the rest. In the air, the sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides can be transformed into sulphuric acid and nitric acid, and air current can send them thousands of kilometres from the source .When the acids fall to the earth in any form it will have large impact on the growth or the preservation of certain wildlife. Areas in Ontario mainly southern regions that are near the Great Lakes, such substances as limestone or other known antacids can neutralize acids entering the body of water thereby protecting it. However, large areas of Ontario that are near the Pre-Cambrian Shield, with quartzite or granite based geology and little top soil, there is not enough buffering capacity to neutralize even small amounts of acid falling on the soil and the lakes. Therefore over time, the basic environment shifts from an alkaline to a acidic one. This is why many lakes in the Muskoka, Haliburton, Algonquin, Parry Sound and Manitoulin districts could lose their fisheries if sulphur emissions are not reduced substantially. The average mean of pH rainfall in Ontario's Muskoka-Haliburton lake country ranges between 3.95 an... Free Essays on Acid Rain Acid Rain INTRODUCTION: Acid rain is a great problem in our world. It causes fish and plants to die in our waters. As well it causes harm to our own race as well, because we eat these fish, drink this water and eat these plants. It is a problem that we must all face together and try to get rid of. However acid rain on it's own is not the biggest problem. It cause many other problems such as aluminum poisoning. Acid Rain is deadly. WHAT IS ACID RAIN? Acid rain is all the rain, snow, mist etc that falls from the sky onto our planet that contains an unnatural acidic. It is not to be confused with uncontaminated rain that falls, for that rain is naturally slightly acidic. It is caused by today's industry. When products are manufactured many chemicals are used to create it. However because of the difficulty and cost of properly disposing of these products they are often emitted into the atmosphere with little or no treatment. The term was first considered to be important about 20 years ago when scientists in Sweden and Norway first believed that acidic rain may be causing great ecological damage to the planet. The problem was that by the time that the scientist found the problem it was already very large. Detecting an acid lake is often quite difficult. A lake does not become acid over night. It happens over a period of many years, some times decades. The changes are usually to gradual for them to be noticed early. At the beginning of the 20th century most rivers/lakes like the river Tovdal in Norway had not yet begun to die. However by 1926 local inspectors were noticing that many of the lakes were beginning to show signs of death. Fish were found dead along the banks of many rivers. As the winters ice began to melt off more and more hundreds upon hundreds more dead fish (trout in particular) were being found. It was at this time that scientist began to search for the reason. As the scientists continued to work they found many... Free Essays on Acid Rain Acid rain is one of the most dangerous and widespread forms of pollution. Sometimes called "the unseen plague," acid rain can go undetected in an area for years. Technically, acid rain is rain that has a larger amount of acid in it than what is normal. The acidity of rain in parts of Europe and North America has dramatically increased over the past few decades. It is now common in many places for rain to be ten to seventy times more acidic than unpolluted rain. Many living and non-living systems become harmed and damaged, because of acid rain. This article gives an informational, in-depth look at acid rainits causes and effects; and solutions to the acid rain problem. Smoke and gases, given off by factories, cars, and other polluters that run on fossil fuels, cause acid rain. When these fuels are burned to produce energy, the sulfur that is present in the fuel combines with oxygen and becomes sulfur dioxide; some of the nitrogen in the air becomes nitrogen oxide. These pollutants go into the atmosphere, and become acid. Sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide are produced especially when coal is burnt for fuel. Burning coal produces electricity, the more electricity people use, and the more coal is burnt. Of course, nowadays people probably could not live without electricity, so coal will continue to be burnt; but electricity and energy are constantly being overused. Think of it this way: every time we turn on a light switch or the television set without really needing to, we are indirectly contributing to the acid rain problem. Automobiles produce nitrogen oxides (which cause acid rain), so every time we do not carpool when we can, we are helpi ng to cause acid rain. Therefore, now that we know what causes acid rain, here a look at how acid rain can hurt you and the world around you? Acid rain is an extremely destructive form of pollution, and the environment suffers from its effects. Forests, lakes, animals, and plant... Free Essays on Acid Rain Acid Rain First of all I’d like to start off with some thoughts on acid rain. Acid rain is a serious problem with disastrous effects. Each day this serious problem increases, many people believe that this issue is too small to deal with right now but I believe this issue should be met head on and solved before it is too late. In the following paragraphs I will be discussing the impact that acid rain has on the wildlife and how it is destroying the atmosphere. Now I will explain the causes of acid rain. Acid rain is a cancer eating into the face of eastern Canada and North Eastern United States. In Canada, the main sulfuric acid sources are non-ferrous smelters and power generation. On both sides of the border, cars and trucks are in the main sources for nitric acid (about 40% of the total), while power generating plants and industrial commercial and residential fuel combustion together contribute most of the rest. In the air, the Sulfur dioxide and Nitrogen oxides can be transformed into sulfuric acid and nitric acid, and air current can send them thousands of kilometers from the source. When the acids fall to the earth in any form it will have a large impact on the growth or the preservation of certain wildlife. There are many areas that just don’t have any defense against acid rain. In areas like Ontario or mainly the southern regions that are near the Great Lakes, contain substances like limestone or other known antacids entering the body of water thereby protecting it. However, large areas of Ontario that are near the Precambrian Shield, with quartzite or granite based geology and little top soil, there is not enough buffering capacity to neutralize even small amounts of acid falling on the soil and the lakes. Therefore overtime, the basic environment shifts from an alkaline to an acidic one. This is why many lakes in the Muskoka, Haliburton, Algonquin, parry sound and Manitoulin districts could lose their fisheries if Sul...

International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 11

International Business - Essay Example Globalization enabled investors to enter new potential regions with innovative business ideas. Today companies, governments, and non-governmental organizations have access to equity fund providers. Numerous equity companies are willing to invest in global market providing international business organizations with human capital and equity capital support. For instance, companies like Hamilton Bradshaw assist international companies by supporting expansion, development, and recapitalization. Changing global economy will certainly demand more equity support and outsourcing help in future. It will promote more entrepreneurs entering the global capital market because the aftermath of the recent recession would persist throughout the next decade. Governmental policies across the world on privatization also have contributed to the emergence of capital market. 2. In order to be competitive in a free global market with no trade barriers and restrictions, a company has to expand its business to international level. In the current business environment of cutthroat competition, a company is forced to seek new potential areas and alternatives for business consistency. To illustrate, the absence of constraints has enabled international business entrepreneurs to enter and dominate domestic markets of any area. If critiques are to b believed, many of the indigenous businesses and small scale or cottage industries are at the verge of extinction. It happens as the international giants come up with machine-made quality products at cheaper cost to acquire the local market. They have advanced technological backup and cost effective mode of business operation that enable them to manufacture products in bulk. In contrast, local business groups rely on conventional strategies and out-dated organizational structures which presumably add to their failure. However, business expansion is not a difficult task for modern organizations as they

Organisational Change and Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Organisational Change and Development - Essay Example Change management in organizations is conducted differently depending on the management structure in charge of the organization. The different approaches used in change management have led to the development of theories and functions associated with different organizational change perspectives. Change management techniques continue to change depending on technology and new approaches developed in managing organizations. The first perspective in organizational change was the structural and functional approach. This approach focused on an organization as a ‘functional mechanical’ unit and as such its focus was on the arrangement of tasks or procedures of each organizational part. The structural-functional approach looked into reorganizational of each organizational part as a contribution to the whole. Another change perspective that was adopted is the multiple constituencies’ approach that centered on people as the driver of change in an organization. This perceptio n main strategy was to focus on resource needs of people and how people contribute to change in an organization. The organizational development perspective was another approach used in organizational management. This approach embraces the combination of the two earlier perspectives with the focus on systems, stakeholders and governance. The multiple constituencies approach relies heavily on governance with a focus on changing organization through methodologies. The last perspective in the organizational change management is that of creativity and volition which reveals the challenges or assumptions of critical theory. This perspective outlines that people are the most important factor in bringing about change in the organization. This last perspective departs from other perspectives by focusing on rational change while ignoring emergent processes which create problems for the organization.

General principles Essay Example for Free

General principles Essay 1. Film theory is how we study movies based general principles. It serves as a model for understanding movies and their different meanings. It is looking at film using a particular perspective, much like using different approaches in analyzing literature. Film criticism meanwhile, is focused more on the artistic value and appeal of the movie to the viewing public. It has two forms: reviews for the common viewer and critical essays for scholars. 2. Realist theory explains that our experiences can be emulated in movies by the help of cinematic language and technology, meaning movies as a representation of reality. Formalist theory explains films are more than a representation of reality. The film artists give form to reality 3. Explicit meaning is what the movie presents on the surface. Meaning the movie clearly shows what it is trying to project, viewers instantly get it without much effort. Implicit meaning is the message within the movie that is not obvious. It is the meaning behind the actions of the film. It is the message of the filmmaker that requires more or less critical analysis. 4. Mimesis is the Greek word for the imitative representation of the world in art and literature. It is basically the violence portrayed in films, suggesting that it is part of reality. Katharsis (catharsis) popularized by Aristotle in his Poetics, on the other hand is what Aristotle used to describe tragedy, it produces emotions of pity and fear. 5. Kathrarsis (catharsis) means purgation or purification. Aristotle used this Greek term in his definition of a tragedy in his Poetics, he said that tragedy must have katharsis, meaning tragedies should produce emotions of pity and fear from the audience. Looking for catharsis in movies is beneficial because it can either have a positive or negative effect on the viewers. 6. Ideology does not simply mean an idea. Ideology means a variety of related ideas, how humans see life and culture. In film, ideology is the ideas of individuals, group, class, or culture that reflects their social needs and aspirations. Ideological meaning in movies is the beliefs depicted in it. It is the belief of the filmmakers, the belief of the characters, or the population’s belief during the movie was made. Feminism, Marxism, and cultural studies are considered ideological theories because they represent ideas that attempt to explain how people and societies function. 7. Auteur theory states that the director is the author of a film. Its application has two forms: the director is judged by looking at all the films he or she has made as a whole, looking at style. The other is a classification of great directors based on a hierarchy of styles. The director must have directed numerous films to be an auteur. The style of the director should be as unique as novelist’s 8. Genre study is the process of understanding some basic ways of how genre functions to develop interesting critiques of genre films. The evolution of major film genres made filmmakers conscious about genre history and conventions, thus the remakes, parodies, sequels, and hybridization that we see today. 9. The study of the phenomenon (or art) known as film and studying film using a certain perspective or approach are involved in the study of film history. 10. Aesthetic approach evaluates movies and directors by looking at how artistic they and their films are. It is sometimes called the masterpiece approach or great man approach. Social approaches evaluate movies on the criteria of how significant they are in relation to the society. Questions when evaluating film are: What is the film’s significance to the society? What social issues does it present? and if it provides solutions.

Vitanzas CyberReader and Internet Confusion Essay -- Vitanza CyberRea

Vitanza's CyberReader and Internet Confusion A rock falls off a cliff and hits another. Both these rocks in turn collide with many other rocks as they fall down the cliff. Finally, all the rocks splash into the water with a mess of confusion and chaos. Victor Vitanza's compiled text, CyberReader , made me feel as if I had finally reached the cushioned bottom with a sense of relief and triumph, tinged with a bit of confusion. Vitanza attempts to, but does not successfully accomplish his goal, which is in his own words is "to introduce. . .the Internet (the Net) and the World Wide Web (WWW)" (vii). He progresses from an explanation of the terms used in the virtual world to an explanation of a wide array of advantages and disadvantages of the Internet. Each side is unselfishly supported by specific examples giving readers a chance to make their own opinions. Vitanza has chosen articles which incorporate the basics of the Internet, its history and its downside in an open and honest manner. Unfortunately, CyberReader is not for thos e who want a clear cut step-by-step method to the Internet. Vitanza begins CyberReader with articles defining virtual reality, cyberspace and hyperreality. One murky chapter follows another, providing readers with a glimpse into the world they are entering when using the Internet. To begin with, although the articles attempt to focus on making analogies to real life events, they tend to be vague. In fact, as in the section titled, "Enchanted Castles", by Umberto Eco, there is often not even a direct connection made to the Internet. Compounding the confusion, Vitanza at times leans towards over explanation rather than understatement. The authors plunge into a long, endless spiel on privacy, censorshi... ... the Internet and types of writing found there, which leads to confusion after confusion. Already a massively misinterpreted medium, computer technology and the Internet need a clear cut explanation, rather than a confusing and inaccurate jumble of articles. Although Vitanza's CyberReader attempted to provide a concise, easy to follow path through the World Wide Web, he fell far short of his goal. Navigating through this confusing compilation was a long enduring battle, and quite frankly, the battle wasn't worth it.  The CvberReader may become useful after many revisions and edits, but for now it is a book that computer classes, English classes and amateur computer users can do without. Work Cited Vitanza, Victor. CyberReader. Needham Heights, Mass.   Ã‚  Simon & Schuster, 1996. or Online. Internet. 18, November 1996. Available: http://www.abacon.com/~cyber/

Han China and the Roman Empire Comparison Essay

Han China and the Roman Empire Comparison Essay Whereas Han China (202 BCE- 220 CE) and the Roman Empire (~800BCE- 476 CE) were thousands of miles away from each other, they had many similarities and differences. Some of the similarities include peasant rebellions, while the differences are such as woman’s rights and their views on manual labor. Peasant rebellions were very important to the societies of Rome and China. The dynasty of Han China itself was formed by a peasant rebellion lead by Wu Ti. Their counterparts in Rome suffered through periods of slave revolts.These shaped these societies dramatically. One of the many differences of these two empires was woman’s rights. While Han China was a highly patriarchal and believed woman were the â€Å"lowest of the low† on the social scale, Rome saw woman still as lesser being, but still had some importance. I believe this is because Rome, unlike China, had more than one god, including goddesses. These woman of a h igher power influenced Rome in a way as to see women in a new way, not as scum. Thus making these two cultures different.Another important difference between Han China and the Roman Empire, were their views on manual labor. In Han China, Confucianism supported the manual labor of farmers and other peasants. Meanwhile in Rome, their idea was that manual labor just took away from the slaves. Even with their differences, both Rome and Han China laid the foundation for major religions like Christianity, Daoism, and Confucianism. Those religions are still ruling the world today. They also created lasting legacies that we consider today as Classical Civilizations.