Culture of Trinidad Essay -- Anthropology Cultural

Culture of Trinidad According to the encyclopedia, culture is defined as â€Å"The totality of socially transmitted behavior patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and all other products of human work and thought [www.wikipedia.com].† In Trinidad these particular aspects are very distinct to the people's daily lives on the island. The diversity of actual cultures and ethnicities on the island has melted together over the centuries to create a Trinidadian culture of its own. There are influences from almost every part of the world including, India, China, the United States, Lebanon, Spain, Britian, Africa, and cultures native the Caribbean. Religion is one the most important aspects defining culture. There is no one dominant faith on the island of Trinidad. According to a statistic in 1990, approximately 31 percent are Catholic (including 11 percent Anglican, 7 percent Pentecostal, 4 percent Seventh-Day Adventist, 3 percent Presbyterian/Congregational, and 3 percent Baptist), 29 percent of the population are practicing or technically Roman Catholic, 24 percent are Hindu, and 6 percent are Muslim [www.state.gov.htm]. Also a small number of people practice traditional native religions and or African religions as well. Often these last two are practiced along with any of the other faiths. Although it may be a small number of individuals who practice native and or African religions, certain aspects or celebrations from these religions are integral to the overall culture of Trinidad. Voodoo is one example of a West African religion that has been carried over to the island on the slave ships of the eighteenth and nineteenth c enturies. Orisha is a specific spirit or belief in Voodoo that is one of the more commonly practiced on Trinidad... ... all filled with brilliant colors and scenes. It last for five days beginning with the King and Queen contest and ending with the Parade of the Bands [www.carnaval.com] While there are many other components to culture on the island of Trinidad, these can be named as the most defining aspects. Carnival is a celebration and display of all aspects and diversities of culture on the island. Trinidad's culture is defined by a merging of many. The fact that this sort of integration in able to strive and be celebrated in such brilliance, is an example of how diversity can be celebrated and accepted. Work Cited A History of Modern Trinidad 1783-1962., Bridget Brereton., Heinemann Educational Books Inc.: New Hampshire. 1981. [www.carnaval.com] [www.iadb.org] [www.nationmaster.com] [www.pilotguide.com] [www.state.gov.htm] [www.trininiew.com]

Overview of Fmcg Sector

An Overview of the FMCG Industry in India chillibreeze writer — Shital Vakhariya Looking for more info Read our more comprehensive report of the same at: India-Reports Read more about Discount Retailing   Ã‚  | | | What are Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)? Products which have a quick turnover, and relatively low cost are known as Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG). FMCG products are those that get replaced within a year.Examples of FMCG generally include a wide range of frequently purchased consumer products such as toiletries, soap, cosmetics, tooth cleaning products, shaving products and detergents, as well as other non-durables such as glassware, bulbs, batteries, paper products, and plastic goods. FMCG may also include pharmaceuticals, consumer electronics, packaged food products, soft drinks, tissue paper, and chocolate bars. A subset of FMCGs are Fast Moving Consumer Electronics which include innovative electronic products such as mobile phones, MP3 players, digital c ameras, GPS Systems and Laptops.These are replaced more frequently than other electronic products. White goods in FMCG refer to household electronic items such as Refrigerators, T. Vs, Music Systems, etc. In 2005, the Rs. 48,000-crore FMCG segment was one of the fast growing industries in India. According to the AC Nielsen India study, the industry grew 5. 3% in value between 2004 and 2005. Indian FMCG Sector | | The Indian FMCG sector is the fourth largest in the economy and has a market size of US$13. 1 billion. Well-established distribution networks, as well as intense competition between the organised and unorganised segments are the characteristics of this sector.FMCG in India has a strong and competitive MNC presence across the entire value chain. It has been predicted that the FMCG market will reach to US$ 33. 4 billion in 2015 from US $ billion 11. 6 in 2003. The middle class and the rural segments of the Indian population are the most promising market for FMCG, and give bra nd makers the opportunity to convert them to branded products. Most of the product categories like jams, toothpaste, skin care, shampoos, etc, in India, have low per capita consumption as well as low penetration level, but the potential for growth is huge.The Indian Economy is surging ahead by leaps and bounds, keeping pace with rapid urbanization, increased literacy levels, and rising per capita income. The big firms are growing bigger and small-time companies are catching up as well. According to the study conducted by AC Nielsen, 62 of the top 100 brands are owned by MNCs, and the balance by Indian companies. Fifteen companies own these 62 brands, and 27 of these are owned by Hindustan Lever. Pepsi is at number three followed by Thums Up. Britannia takes the fifth place, followed by Colgate (6), Nirma (7), Coca-Cola (8) and Parle (9).These are figures the soft drink and cigarette companies have always shied away from revealing. Personal care, cigarettes, and soft drinks are the t hree biggest categories in FMCG. Between them, they account for 35 of the top 100 brands. Exhibit I THE TOP 10 COMPANIES IN FMCG SECTOR S. NO. | Companies| 1. | Hindustan Unilever Ltd. | 2. | ITC (Indian Tobacco Company)| 3. | Nestle India| 4. | GCMMF (AMUL)| 5. | Dabur India| 6. | Asian Paints (India)| 7. | Cadbury India| 8. | Britannia Industries| 9. | Procter & Gamble Hygiene and Health Care| 10. | Marico Industries| Source: Naukrihub. comThe companies mentioned in Exhibit I, are the leaders in their respective sectors. The personal care category has the largest number of brands, i. e. , 21, inclusive of Lux, Lifebuoy, Fair and Lovely, Vicks, and Ponds. There are 11 HLL brands in the 21, aggregating Rs. 3,799 crore or 54% of the personal care category. Cigarettes account for 17% of the top 100 FMCG sales, and just below the personal care category. ITC alone accounts for 60% volume market share and 70% by value of all filter cigarettes in India. The foods category in FMCG is g aining popularity with a swing of launches by HLL, ITC, Godrej, and others.This category has 18 major brands, aggregating Rs. 4,637 crore. Nestle and Amul slug it out in the powders segment. The food category has also seen innovations like softies in ice creams, chapattis by HLL, ready to eat rice by HLL and pizzas by both GCMMF and Godrej Pillsbury. This category seems to have faster development than the stagnating personal care category. Amul, India's largest foods company, has a good presence in the food category with its ice-creams, curd, milk, butter, cheese, and so on. Britannia also ranks in the top 100 FMCG brands, dominates the biscuits category and has launched a series of products at various prices.In the household care category (like mosquito repellents), Godrej and Reckitt are two players. Goodknight from Godrej, is worth above Rs 217 crore, followed by Reckitt's Mortein at Rs 149 crore. In the shampoo category, HLL's Clinic and Sunsilk make it to the top 100, although P;amp;G's Head and Shoulders and Pantene are also trying hard to be positioned on top. Clinic is nearly double the size of Sunsilk. Dabur is among the top five FMCG companies in India and is a herbal specialist. With a turnover of Rs. 19 billion (approx.US$ 420 million) in 2005-2006, Dabur has brands like Dabur Amla, Dabur Chyawanprash, Vatika, Hajmola and Real. Asian Paints is enjoying a formidable presence in the Indian sub-continent, Southeast Asia, Far East, Middle East, South Pacific, Caribbean, Africa and Europe. Asian Paints is India's largest paint company, with a turnover of Rs. 22. 6 billion (around USD 513 million). Forbes Global magazine, USA, ranked Asian Paints among the 200 Best Small Companies in the World Cadbury India is the market leader in the chocolate confectionery market with a 70% market share and is ranked number two in the total food drinks market.Its popular brands include Cadbury's Dairy Milk, 5 Star, Eclairs, and Gems. The Rs. 15. 6 billion (USD 380 Mill ion) Marico is a leading Indian group in consumer products and services in the Global Beauty and Wellness space. Scope Of The Sector| | | The Indian FMCG sector with a market size of US$13. 1 billion is the fourth largest sector in the economy. A well-established distribution network, intense competition between the organized and unorganized segments characterize the sector. FMCG Sector is expected to grow by over 60% by 2010. That will translate into an annual growth of 10% over a 5-year period.It has been estimated that FMCG sector will rise from around Rs 56,500 crores in 2005 to Rs 92,100 crores in 2010. Hair care, household care, male grooming, female hygiene, and the chocolates and confectionery categories are estimated to be the fastest growing segments, says an HSBC report. Though the sector witnessed a slower growth in 2002-2004, it has been able to make a fine recovery since then. | | For example, Hindustan Levers Limited (HLL) has shown a healthy growth in the last quarte r. An estimated double-digit growth over the next few years shows that the good times are likely to continue.Growth Prospects With the presence of 12. 2% of the world population in the villages of India, the Indian rural FMCG market is something no one can overlook. Increased focus on farm sector will boost rural incomes, hence providing better growth prospects to the FMCG companies. Better infrastructure facilities will improve their supply chain. FMCG sector is also likely to benefit from growing demand in the market. Because of the low per capita consumption for almost all the products in the country, FMCG companies have immense possibilities for growth.And if the companies are able to change the mindset of the consumers, i. e. if they are able to take the consumers to branded products and offer new generation products, they would be able to generate higher growth in the near future. It is expected that the rural income will rise in 2007, boosting purchasing power in the countrys ide. However, the demand in urban areas would be the key growth driver over the long term. Also, increase in the urban population, along with increase in income levels and the availability of new categories, would help the urban areas maintain their position in terms of consumption.At present, urban India accounts for 66% of total FMCG consumption, with rural India accounting for the remaining 34%. However, rural India accounts for more than 40% consumption in major FMCG categories such as personal care, fabric care, and hot beverages. In urban areas, home and personal care category, including skin care, household care and feminine hygiene, will keep growing at relatively attractive rates. Within the foods segment, it is estimated that processed foods, bakery, and dairy are long-term growth categories in both rural and urban areas. Indian Competitiveness and Comparison with the World MarketsThe following factors make India a competitive player in FMCG sector:? Availability of raw ma terials Because of the diverse agro-climatic conditions in India, there is a large raw material base suitable for food processing industries. India is the largest producer of livestock, milk, sugarcane, coconut, spices and cashew and is the second largest producer of rice, wheat and fruits &vegetables. India also produces caustic soda and soda ash, which are required for the production of soaps and detergents. The availability of these raw materials gives India the location advantage. Labor cost comparison Low cost labor gives India a competitive advantage. India's labor cost is amongst the lowest in the world, after China ;amp; Indonesia. Low labor costs give the advantage of low cost of production. Many MNC's have established their plants in India to outsource for domestic and export markets. ? Presence across value chain Indian companies have their presence across the value chain of FMCG sector, right from the supply of raw materials to packaged goods in the food-processing s ector. This brings India a more cost competitive advantage.For example, Amul supplies milk as well as dairy products like cheese, butter, etc. | Strategic Intent We intend to significantly accelerate profitable growth. To do this, we will: * Focus on growing our core brands across categories, reaching out to new geographies, within and outside India, and improve operational efficiencies by leveraging technology * Be the preferred company to meet the health and personal grooming needs of our target consumers with safe, efficacious, natural solutions by synthesizing our deep knowledge of ayurveda and herbs with modern science * Provide our consumers with innovative products ithin easy reach * Build a platform to enable Dabur to become a global ayurvedic leader * Be a professionally managed employer of choice, attracting, developing and retaining quality personnel * Be responsible citizens with a commitment to environmental protection * Provide superior returns, relative to our peer gr oup, to our shareholders * Dabur India Limited | * Dabur India Limited is India's leading FMCG company with interests in health care, personal care and foods. Dabur has a history of more than 100 years and the company has carved a niche for it self in the field of Ayurvedic medicines.The products of Dabur are marketed in more than 50 countries worldwide. The company has 2 major strategic business units (SBU) – Consumer Care Division (CCD) ;amp; Consumer Health Division (CHD), and 3 Subsidiary Group companies – Dabur Foods, Dabur Nepal and Dabur International. Dabur International has 3 step down subsidiaries – Asian Consumer Care in Bangladesh, African Consumer Care in Nigeria and Dabur Egypt. The origin of Dabur can be traced back to 1884 when Dr. S. K. Burman started a health care products manufacturing facility in a small Calcutta pharmacy.In 1896, as a result of growing popularity of Dabur products, Dr. Burman set up a manufacturing plant for mass production of formulations. In early 1900s, Dabur entered the specialized area of nature based Ayurvedic medicines. In 1919, Dabur established research laboratories to develop scientific processes and quality checks. In 1936, Dabur became a full-fledged company with the name Dabur India (Dr. S. K. Burman) Pvt Ltd. Dabur shifted its operations to Delhi in 1972. Dabur became a Public Limited Company in 1986 and Dabur India Limited came into existence after reverse merger with Vidogum Limited.In 1992, Dabur entered into a joint venture with Agrolimen of Spain to manufacture and market confectionary items in India. In 1994, Dabur raised its first IPO. In 1998, day to day running of the company was handed over to professionals. In 2000, Dabur achieved a turnover of Rs 1000 crores. In 2005, Dabur acquired Balsara. Dabur crossed $ 2 billion market cap in 2006. Some of the well-known brands of Dabur are: Amla Chyawanprash, Hajmola, Lal Dantmanjan, Nature Care, Pudin Hara, Babool Toothpaste, Hingoli, D abur Honey, Lemoneez, Meswak, Odonil, Real, RealActiv and Vatika.

Company Mergers And Acquisitions The Advantages And Disadvantages - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 8 Words: 2498 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Statistics Essay Did you like this example? Acquisitions and Mergers sounds like it is a never ending story , the markets are global and the competition is already impossible. Lots of research have already found that nearly 50 percent of mergers and acquisitions are not effective economically ; so what is the main reason that MAs are still on progress. The possibility of being unsuccessful is increasing. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Company Mergers And Acquisitions The Advantages And Disadvantages" essay for you Create order The reason is that these companies are basically large and they are based on complex systems , after merger process , if the activity still shows low performance , the lost might be more than expected . Also this negative situation brings another research process which costs extra to the business while requirement to be successful is getting less for the firms . The process which should insist more details and have a better illustrative level of the business. The aim of my proposal is to examine advantages , disadvantages and motives of mergers and acquisitions. To find out if they show difference through the Merger process and there is any change along last decennium. To find solutions to these problems sometimes quantitive financial analyses will be used and sometimes management performance data. The data will be gained from different industrial organisations . My work is to evaluate the previous researches and theories to mention advantages and disadvantages of this process. INTRODUCTION This dissertation examines the firms mergers and take-over situations to make informative illustrations about company amalgamations. Some chances may be necessary for companies in order to improve their adaptability towards changing and developing markets all over the world. These changes take some forms such as mergers of the companies to increase their power or take à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å" over of a firm by another one . Recent days , there is a tough competition between firms which produce exactly identical or similar products . The companies which keep doing business in the market by keeping their existing size stay behind some firms that merge their powers with others . In addition to these companies that have merger , the co-operations could be made with firms which provide production and logistic needs without any problems ; therefore , all work forces could be used effectively in appropriate profession. Furthermore , the companies which believe in adversity of the development by having a single product or service might try to reduce risk level by having a merger with a corporation which produces different produ ct or service. This may cause the company mergers. The possibly important point in the merger of a company is the tax benefits . The company which makes a merger decisions should make some analyses for the purpose of inspecting the propriety of the decision. The reasons of the merger should be investigated very well and the results à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å" benefits should be presented beforehand. I will mention these points in my dissertation First of my dissertation will explain the meaning of the company mergers and the merger types and the reasons will be defined. In the process of the merger , the responsibilities of the companies will be presented and costing process will be explained. Secondly , historical development of the company mergers will be defined and the main company mergers in Turkey will be specified . Nevertheless , two examples of merger process will be explained with advantages and disadvantages respectively. LITERATURE REVIEW There are several motives that may be inside a MAs process . The common one is clear that the buyer company sees the MAs as a profit returnable business . Generally , researchers who have worked about MAs shows it as a different type of investment . Companies will work on acquisitions when they are the most profitable means of improving the business , gaining new techniques , producing different products or working on new countries , or creating new ideas and innovations . So , lots of the same reasons that influence an investment decisions would also influence merger activity ( Weston , Chung Hoag , Mergers , Restructuring Corporate Control 1990). According to Pitts (1977); internal growth and growth through acquisitions were equally attractive alternatives. Moreover Porter (1987) examined 33 larger firms and found that these firms had diversified their operations more through acquisitive growth than through alternative means. However , Porter (1987) discovered that acquisitions often resulted in unsatisfactory performance that in turn led to a large number of post-acquisition divestitures . Roll suggested that gains achieved through acquisitions or takeovers may have been overestimated if they exist at all (1986:198). Although there is some evidence to contrary , the most neutral and sometimes negative results achieved by the acquiring firm indicate that mergers and acquisitions involve trade-offs. For example , Fowler and Schmidt (1989) found that performance declined after a tender offer acquisition (using both accounting and stock market measures ) However , this general decline could be improved by previous acquisition ex perience and affected by percentage of ownership and firm age . Hopkins (1987) found that acquisitions often led to a decline market position . Mueller (1985) reported that companies acquired in conglomerate and horizontal acquisitions experienced substantial losses in market share . Another trade off is demonstrated by Pitts (1977) results showing that firms following an acquisitive strategy invested less in RD than did internal growth firms. Harding Rovit (2004) Mastering The Merger , briefly defined the four critical decisions that make merger successful or simple break the deal. This book is generally talks about the complicated , fast moving and sometimes high rewarded side of corporate deal making. By the help of this book I will have opportunity to learn how to deal in ways that will be useful for my dissertation. Basically , Mastering the Merger is insist of numerous ideas that a manager faces on the top of the dealing process. Moreover , by focusing on the four decisions that is important most , it will help me to clear and simplify complex ideas about merger process. However this book is not a technical book where I can find techniques or it will not give one by one control list. According to Harding and Rovit , most senior executives think that they are pretty good decision makers because of having a strong track record. But when it is time to make decisions sometimes standards changes. The point what I will us e from this book is to learn practical ways to manage a deal. Grundy Slack (2005) gives information about mergers and acquisitions clearly. Generally the book talks about the adding value of mergers and acquisitions to companies . In contrast by arguing about adding and destroying value of mergers and acquisitions , it gives chance to me to inspect both sides of the problem. Moreover it includes about historical overview , case studies , examples from EU and ASIA and alternative perspectives of mergers and acquisition activity that I will mention in my dissertation . Also this book is more technical and consist of theories more than Mastering the Merger. By reading this book I am planning to define success of MAs and measure the impact of acquisitions on shareholders returns with examples from history. Watson Head (2007) suggested that the fundamental problem that faces financial managers is how to secure the greatest possible return in exchange for accepting the smallest amount of risk. Obviously this book will help me to write about merger activity more about accounting side. Also it mentions the trends about take over activities and gives real life examples from different companies. It also briefly mentioned about divestment point that the other books didnt. Furthermore it clearly shows the financing of acquisitions. Also there is one more point , which I couldnt find in any other reference books , about empirical research on acquisitions. Lumby Jones (2007) describes the merger process and technical terms such as synergy , revenue strategy , cost synergy , tax synergy , financial synergy , valuing synergy e.g. This book takes merger process and defines it simply by explaining technical terms to the reader. Furthermore it shows the potential complications that surround an acquisition decision. Previously , financing acquisition took place in Watson Head (2007) and also this book gives wide information about this process. Also take over defence is the other point what I will use information from this book. According to Lumby and Jones , takeover defence works if a company is subject to takeover bid that is unwelcome to the management team . Therefore they defined early warning system , city code and three stage defence strategy. Arnold (2005) examines the reasons for mergers ranging from the gaining of economies of scale to managerial empire building. It tries to find answer to this question if shareholders of acquiring firms gain from mergers or not. According to him less than one half of corporate mergers do the shareholders of acquiring firm benefit. Moreover it examines the merger decision process clearly and giving the definitions of merger , acquisition and takeover by mentioning the differences between them. He also mentions UK merger activity statics from 1970 to 2002. As the other books show , this books mentions what drives firm to merger widely. On the other hand he mentions the tactics that a company have take before and after the merger. In other words he gives clues to make merger process as successful as it can be. Copeland , Weston Shastri (2005) clearly defines the merger activity with theories and alternative growth strategies. Furthermore , it carries out a systematic research about mergers from past till today and study on the current merger models. Also it lists merger activity data from different countries together with MAs adjustment process. It also briefly mentions the ways to be more successful on MAs process. Brigham Ehrhardt (2007) mentions the merger process as the other book does. However , it point out the track record for acquiring firms in large deals has not always been good. In other word Brigham Ehrhardt mentions the negative ways of merger process with unsuccessful examples from different companies and merger mistakes . Moreover it explains the process with mini case studies . METHODOLOGY This dissertation will be semi qualitative and semi quantitative. There are varieties of data that I need to collect either qualitative and quantitative. The reason is that I will examine the managers behaviours and decisions at the same time I want to clear the MAs process as theory covers. Also I would like to show statics and use real business examples about management faults. Generally, I am planning to use case studies to explain the process widely with examples and simplify the theory. First of all I want to examine the automotive industry and I will use a case study to show the process from this industry. I will try to define the process with statics analyses and I will examine the results of this merger process. Also I will use online secondary data from websites of these companies and various related websites that will help me to make richer my dissertation. Moreover , I am planning to collect online secondary data from consultant companies about MAs and chosen company. I will also use the accounts of the companies which I will examine as case studies in my dissertation. They will be useful for me to make decisions about the previous and present economical performance. At the same time it will be useful and easier to explain the strategic decisions of the company . Also I will have chance to compare the success of MAs process by looking at the accounts of the companies. Moreover , I am planning to use the journals and economy news to add complementary ideas to my dissertation as secondary data . So by the help of authors and writers point of views , I will hold the control of my research easily. Basically , there are some limitations on MAs process to collect data about companies. it will be useful to use up to date information. So the data ,which I will be collected, will not be affected by the changes . Furthermore , I will request information from the companies which I will use in my dissertation as case studies. If it will be possible to gain information , I will have valuable information for my project and at the same time it will be primary data . I will try to use sources as many as I can to make my research richer to explain the MAs process effectively and answer the questions that I asked in the beginning of my proposal. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY Mergers and acquisitions are becoming more popular year by year .But this process is very hard and the world is getting one economically . This situation brings more research prerequisite at the same time being successful is becoming harder for companies. Most of the researchers think that mergers and acquisitions coming to its end but in my point of view it is opposite . In contrast there is an issue about mergers as they cannot be successful anymore . Lots of researches have found that 50 percent half of mergers are not successful economically . Black and Carnes (2001) briefly defined that for 5 years period the profit were negative for MAs through 1985-95. Moreover Thomas Hogarty mentioned mergers as risk takers in 1970. So there must be a reason about why MA s are still being done. According to Jay B. Barney; if cost of MAs process is higher than the returns gained from by buying the company then it is not possible to expect a high economic performance. Assumption to this sentence, if there was a market to trade companies which guarantees to work rivalry then no one expects extraordinary profits. Basically , capital is the only driver behind MAs. But this process is not so simple although managers make decisions rationally , there are lots of facts that affects making decisions . There is an experiment which was made to a Turkish company that used outsource for its back office on integration . The results satisfied the management and showed that they reached an optimum growth rate by outsourcing .Cost saving is a way of increasing the financial performance after merger process . Managers of a company have to exploit situations such as overvaluation and opposite when firms over value or manager make systematic faults then they have to turn back and correct these mistakes . Moreover, they are optimistic about outcomes which they fell like it is under their management . All these above shows the importance of corporate governance and managers must behave carefully not harm the company. If there will be a failure , it damages the company either the manager. I will use this theory to undertake merger process in my dissertation . The data of MAs performance process will be taken from dissimilar industrial companies. I will examine different companies from different parts of the world so we can say that this research will be general and global. Also different merger and acquisitions show differ from each other. Moreover , it affects the motives for MAs. To conclude my sentences above I will use the behavioural power of people and theories to find out peoples reactions and movements . Theoretically this research will fill the lack of misunderstanding of the merger process. Past acquisition and merger performance will analysed between companies with motives .

Alcohol abuse - 1512 Words

Alcohol abuse in the society. A review of the literature Abstract Alcohol abuse is also a serious medical and social problem, but is not the same as alcoholism. Alcohol abuse is the intentional overuse of alcohol, i.e., to the point of drunkenness. This includes occasional and celebratory over-drinking. Not all people who abuse†¦show more content†¦This can be the beginning of an addiction. If you drink to feel good, you should ask yourself if you can also feel at ease without alcohol. Who consumes alcohol, how much and when? Jennifer Warner, MA 2006, the poll, conducted July 6-9 among a national sample of 1,007 people aged 18 and older, showed 64% of Americans say they drink alcoholic beverages. Researchers say the percentage of Americans who say they drink has changed little over time, averaging about 63% since Gallup began surveying Americans about drinking habits in 1939. However, the most recent poll shows the frequency of drinking has risen over the last 10 years. The 2006 poll showed 71% of American drinkers said they had an alcoholic drink in the last week, which is significantly higher than the 54% who said the same in 1996. Also on the rise is the number of drinks Americans are drinking. The poll shows those who drink alcohol report drinking an average of 4.5 drinks per week, compared with 2.8 in 1996. Recent studies have suggested that drinking alcohol in moderation -- particularly wine -- may promote better health, and researchers say the increase in number of drinks per week may be a reflection of this. The percentage of drinkers who named wine as their drink of choice has increased steadily from 27% in 1992 to a peak of 39% last year, when it narrowly topped beer in popularity. But beerShow MoreRelatedThe Effects Of Alcohol On Alcohol Abuse942 Words   |  4 PagesEveryday around the world people fail to realize the effects alcohol abuse can have on themselves as well as their loved ones. 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The Inferno Warning Or Threat - 1385 Words

Warning Or Threat? The Inferno, is the first part of the trilogy within the Divine Comedy, by Dante Alighieri. The Inferno incompasses the story of Dante’s journey through Hell to reach the path of righteousness going toward Heaven’s Gate. Across the immeasurable and extensive journey of Dante and Virgil, both together observe the punishments brought upon oneself, as a result of the sins committed by the hopeless residents of Hell. Within the novel, the severity of punishment and the discipline itself whilst in Hell, is a direct correlation to the sins that the souls of Hell are bound to from before their individual descent down the steps of Hell. The symbolism or irony behind each of the different punishments are all fitting of the actual sin, as the people that reside within Hell got what they deserved for sinning, and now being punished for eternity to atone for those sins. As stated by Dante, from the words of Virgil, Hell has two completely different sections: Upper Hell of Incontin ence, going from Vestibule through Circles 1-5, and Lower Hell of Violence and Fraud, stretching from Circle 6-9 and into the depths of Hell where Lucifer is kept. As said before the sections of Hell are split by levels corresponding to the degree of sin, as the level of sin increases gradually, parallel to the Circles of Hell reaching the end, within Circles 7,8, and 9 have an akin historical or mythological figure used to illustrate and exemplify the degree of sin. Most figures areShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Dante s Inferno Essay742 Words   |  3 PagesMiddle Ages. Dante, however, regarded Islam and Muslims as odious because he saw them as a real threat to Europe as well as a rival religion to Christianity. Therefore, in the Divine Comedy, he placed five prominent figures and the Mosques in Hell. Because of such pitiless treatment, Dante is an Islamophobic. 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Compare and contrast the human condition as it relates to Muslims and Christians Free Essays

The author of this paper will endeavor to compare and contrast the human condition as it relates to Muslims and Christians. The author will examine the teachings of these religions as it relates to the improvement of the human condition and will look at the public stance of both of these great religions. One of the five basic pillars of Islam is the Zakaat or spiritual tithing or almsgiving. We will write a custom essay sample on Compare and contrast the human condition as it relates to Muslims and Christians or any similar topic only for you Order Now In its simplest terms it is a command by Muslims to give 2.5% of their accumulated wealth on an annual basis to other Muslims. According to www.islam.tc there is much more to the Zakaat than the simple annual giving. According to this website the Zakaat is â€Å"the most important act of worship which has to be performed monetarily.† The website further lists the many benefits of giving Zakaat as follows: â€Å"It reminds Muslims of the fact that whatever wealth they may possess is due to the blessings of Allah and as such is to be spent according to His commands.† â€Å"Zakaat functions as a social security for all. Those who have enough money today pay for what they have. If they need money tomorrow they will get what is necessary to help them live decently.† â€Å"Zakaat payer pays his dues to Allah as an act of worship, a token of submission and an acknowledgement of gratitude. The receiver of Zakaat receives it as a grant from Allah out of His bounty, a favor for which he is thankful to Allah.† Thus the Muslim by accepting the 5 pillars agrees that he is to help support the less well off from him. As this is a command from Allah, the benefits of the Zakaat are then seen as blessings directly from Allah. Allah says in the Qur’an â€Å"The parable of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn. It grows seven ears and each ear has hundred grains. Allah increases manifold to whom he pleases.† (Qur’an 2:261) Further research indicates that the Hadith indicates the following benefits are derived from the Zakaat as follows: 1. Gain the pleasure of Allah 2. Increase in wealth and protection from losses 3. Allah’s forgiveness and blessings 4. Protection from the wrath of Allah and from a bad death 5. A shelter on the Day of Judgment 6. Security from seventy misfortunes Benefit is sometimes looked upon as the avoidance of pain, and the Hadith certainly points out not only some benefits such as forgiveness and blessings, but additionally the avoidance of pain such as shelter on Judgment day and the security from seventy misfortunes. Allah also indicates punishment for not giving Zakaat as follows: â€Å"And there are those who hoard gold and silver and do not spend it in the way of Allah, announce to them a most grievous penalty (when) on the Day of Judgment heat will be produced out of that wealth in the fire of Hell. Then with it they will be branded on their forehead and their flanks and backs. (It will be said to them) This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves, taste then the treasure that you have been hoarding.† (Qur’an 9:34-35) Christians on the other hand are certainly not as public and seem to be by the author’s experience somewhat bashful or ashamed to speak about money, tithing and almsgiving. From the author’s own experience as a member of the Stewardship committee of his Church, we only speak of money three Sundays per year and only in the context that it is a member of the trilogy of time, talents, and treasures to be given for the glory of God. Further, Christians are of two minds as to the amount of money they should give. The old testament of the Bible in Leviticus 27:31 states the following: A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord. The word â€Å"tithe† means one tenth. In the new testament of the Bible, Jesus teaches us in Luke 6:38 â€Å"Give, it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.† Also in Luke, Jesus says in Luke 11:41 â€Å"But give what is inside the dish to the poor, and everything will be clean for you.† The passages from the old and new testaments seem to be mutually exclusive, but do indicate that giving must be done, but not how much. Muslims, it seems are definitely more clear on the amount of giving. Also different between the Christian and the Muslim is who are we giving to? The Zakaat clearly indicates that Muslims are giving to other Muslims as a command from Allah which then gives benefit to both the giver and the receiver. Christians on the other hand clearly give to the Church. The Christian Church according to their doctrines then gives to help support the Church and also humankind as a whole. Christians routinely support other belief systems through their outreach and missions. Look as an example of the enormous support for Muslims by Christians after the Tsunami. The author is a member of an ELCA Lutheran Church and as part of the mission of this Church; the congregation took a mission trip in part to support a Catholic Orphanage in Peru. Muslims routinely praise or do not disparage the terrorist Osama Bin Laden. Why is this so? The reason is that Osama routinely supports other Muslims through generous giving to Muslims. Since there has been no outward vocal opposition to this generosity by Muslims it must therefore be an accepted practice. The author cannot recall or through research find any Christian terrorist let alone one who is exalted because of his giving. Both great religions certainly promote giving. The Muslim Zakaat clearly supports other Muslims which may just be the single biggest reason for the explosive growth of the Islam faithful in the world. Muslims believe the Zakaat should support all things Muslim such as education and cite Muhammad’s exhortations regarding education as follows: â€Å"If you educate a man, you educate an individual. If you educate a woman, you educate a nation.† Certainly the Zakaat helps support education amongst the Muslims which further adds to their burgeoning populations. Christianity on the other hand is more quiet and somewhat bashful in their attempts at Christian education amongst the world’s non-Christian people which may account for the slower growth of Christianity. Certainly both religions are painfully aware of the decline in the overall human condition, but Muslims, because of their adherence to the Five Pillars are doing a better and more public job of showing humankind (not necessarily in the United States) the kind, peace-loving, nurturing side of their faith. How to cite Compare and contrast the human condition as it relates to Muslims and Christians, Papers

Australian Catholic University - Pursuing Bachelors Of Nursing

Question: Why You Want To Study Bachelors Of Nursing In Australia At ACU. Answer: Statement of Purpose My name is **** from Nepal and am applying for undergraduate studies in Australian Catholic University in Australia. I hold a diploma innursing and have worked for three years in a hospital in Nepal as a registered nurse. I have experience in assessing patients health needs and problems, developing and implementing nurse care plans and maintaining medical records. I have also worked with disabled and injured patients in thenursing care unit. Reason to study in Australia I choose to study in Australia because of the high education standards that are ranked amongst the highest in the whole world. The degrees attained from Australian universities are internationally recognized and this will increase my opportunities around the globe. The academic environment is also of high standards. There is quality assured education, amiable and safe society and multicultural environment. Another reason for choosing to study in Australia is the high standards of living, opportunities for part time work and affordable tuition fees. I have made my mind to pursue my education goals in Australia as an international student. Reason for choosing Australian Catholic University (ACU) I am convinced that ACU is the best choice to my needs. The ACU is a highly reputed and recognized institution both in Australian and entire world. The ACU is ranked amongst the top 3% of the universities worldwide. The university is also rated at top 5 for skills development in Australia. ACU research is also above the world standard of 94%. And most importantly, ACU is ranked amongst top 50 bestnursing institutions worldwide. This shows that I will get quality education at a reasonable tuition fee. On the other side, I found that ACU is well equipped with modern infrastructure that facilitates quality learning. Reason to undertake Bachelors of nursing I have always been passion to serve humanity as a nurse. The main objective for enrolling is to improve my skills and knowledge innursing profession. First, I want to enhance my ability to undertake research. Acquiring skills in research methodologies will enable me continually undertake research aimed to solving health problem facing people in my country. Secondly, I need exposure on modern facilities in the nursing profession. This will improve my technical skills in administering nursing care to patients. I will also be exposed to latest technology in the nursing profession that is not available in developing countries such Nepal. This will enable me better understand the current trends in delivering health care. Getting these skills and knowledge in the field of nursing will enable me further handle my duties more effectively and be able to overcome challenging experienced in the field of nursing. This will enhance my career as a nurse leading to a successful career. In summary, my higher studies in ACU will positively contribute to both my career and country. Nepal is a developing country and requires more medical professions to handle the health challenges facing the country. I feel confident that after my studies in Australia and having a degree in nursing will enable me get opportunities in public health, open consultancy or work in private health sector to contribute in delivering quality and excellent health care to people in my country.