Female economy

Female economy The twenty first century has seen the elevated extension of the world economy. As years progress changes have been inevitable as issues such as the financial crisis wreak havoc with economies. Following this, researchers are focusing their studies on how best to penetrate the current market and emerge unscathed despite the prevalent challenges. It is from this point of view that Sayre and Silverstein (2009) sought to examine the place of women in todays market. In their article they explore the predicament facing women and companies due to the latters failure to acknowledge the power women possess. Women are increasingly dominating the worlds market and as drivers of the world economy, they demand attention from product and service companies. Estimated to control almost $20trillion in annual consumer expenditure, they are a neglected consumer group resulting in hefty untapped opportunities. The article indicates that a majority of women feel highly underserved and sidelined by product companies. This is despite the current and growing stature of women in the society. Women have become quite powerful due to the effects of education, leadership opportunities and career opportunities. It is no longer a world where most women were uneducated; currently women dominate half of global students and this enhances their capacities for choice of consumption. Furthermore, most women are seeking to advance their career opportunities and employment is accompanied by elements of dynamic consumption needs. In the study, it is eminent that women face challenges in managing their households and finances, having too many demands and the lack of enough time for themselves. Right here is a loophole for companies to capitalize and serve women with regard to their specific needs. Sayre and Silverstein (2009) emphasize that companies must learn the strategies of selling to women especially bec ause their dominance is bound to accrue large profits. A comprehensive research study requires a concrete research problem. In Sayre and Silverstein (2009), the researchers aimed at understanding how women feel about their work and lives and how they were served by businesses. Even though the stated research problem detailed indicated the appropriate form of research methodology to be used it did not indicate the overall subject of the study. Walliman (2006, p.67) argue that hypotheses used in constructing the research problem should emerge from logical deductions from a background research of the topic. However, the article does not use ample background research as no literature review is evident in the study. In addition, while the study is keen to address the fact that women dominate todays market the research problem does not draw a connection to this fact. The research problem guides one into conceptualizing the appropriate form of research methodology and as the article progresses it is evident that qualitative methods were most ap propriate. The study chose to use qualitative research methods in understanding womens needs and their feelings on the services offered by businesses. Qualitative research is suitable in such studies which seek to understand issues comprehensively and whose qualitative data cannot accomplish the same. As asserted by Ragin (1994, p.83) qualitative research emphasizes on in-depth knowledge and a refined elaboration of images, concepts and overall perceptions. In the study, the qualitative research methods used were the questionnaire and interview methods. All these methods were web based with most of the participants being required to access web services and undertake the interviews. The web survey posted in the consultancy groups website attracted more than 12 000 women from a vast range of geographies. The survey contained a questionnaire with 120 questions about different aspects of womens lives. Such aspects included homes, careers, education, relationships, interests and activities among oth ers. This form of survey gives anonymity to participants who then feel uncompromised in answering the questions given. In addition it targets a wide range of participants and thus increases the validity of research results as participants are diverse and unbiased. The web survey was in tandem with the research goal as the questions addressed the research problem and even heightened the researchs effect through a diversified response. As a qualitative research method, the interview presents a unique form of conversation where the interviewer seeks to understand various items in the participants point of view. Internet interviewing provides for a suitable interviewing technique. With the similar advantage of anonymity, the researcher can seek answers from participants through email and other chat services. The study used internet interviewing in their study of women working in various organizations. Hewson (2003, p.45) observes that internet interviewing may limit the researcher from accessing nonverbal information expressed by participants. In a situation where the research clearly embarks on a mission of comprehensiveness, this might be a shortfall in the study. Interview conversations need to be highly structured and this prompts researchers to design specific interview questions in order to guide the process. In any research study, it is expected that various procedures are undertaken as a way of ensuring the comprehensiveness and credibility of the study. At the onset of research preparations are made on how to acquire research participants. While the article underlies the target of the survey to be women, it fails to stipulate protocol for sampling. This open web survey received responses from women and the conducted interviews were similarly addressed to women. The articles failure to outline the sampling procedure lives room for speculation and skepticism on the researchs validity and reliability. Regardless of the sampling misdemeanors, this open form of web survey attracted a sample of participants who fit in with the research outcomes perfectly. Ethical considerations in carrying out research are an integral part of any research study. Its importance is quite pertinent and omitting it may lead to dire consequences. In the article, there are no indications of any ethical underpinnings to the study. The web survey does not provide any contractual agreement detailing the object of the research and reasons for research. Whether in the web survey or interviews carried out by the researcher, they are required to make the potential research participant understand their role in the research process. Bell (2005, p.45) argues that it is insufficient when the interviewer just displays the contract and expects the participant to sign it. Seeking consent of the participants is important and the article has no evidence that these measures were taken. In the view of a lack of consent or infringed privacy, researchers are liable to facing legal repercussions which may waylay their research. Moreover, as an interviewer it is crucial to ask questions in a respectful manner which takes into consideration the various characteristics of the participants. Dealing with internet interviews may require one to infer on the appropriate time for the interview and researchers should take any recommendations respectfully. In cases of any shortcomings caused by ineffective ethical considerations, the article should have stated so. Despite this, the web survey allowed participants to engage in the study at their own time and the questions used were in no way inappropriate. Following the study the article chose six archetypes which were observed to be common amongst respondents. It is through these common characteristics that the data collected was analyzed. The data analysis is not clearly detailed as the procedures undertaken in compiling and evaluating the various responses are not outlined. The article immediately embarks on presenting the research results and findings. The six archetypes included fast-tracker, pressure cooker, relationship focused; managing on her own, fulfilled empty nester and making ends meet (Silverstein, 2009, p.49). With reference to each of these aspects, the article expounds on the factors which make women the largest consumers with regard to the products from the specific industries. Using these segments was instrumental in establishing the kind of consumers marketers in companies should aim to target. It is similarly advantageous to understand what consumers are looking for in the market and their specific needs. The key segments were well presented in a chart describing their income levels, age and stages of life. The article also extensively presents the portion of the population each type of women occupied and the percentage of overall income possessed. The article further indicated the priorities and needs of the women in each segment which gives marketers an idea of the most appropriate consumer goods for them. In the industries which presented the largest opportunities like food, fitness, beauty and apparel, women voiced their views on their experiences with these industries. For instance, women were seen to value fitness highly but it always tends to take a backseat in their lives. The reason behind this was the fact that most women often prioritized other peoples needs before their own. Thus, the lack of time provided an opportunity for fitness centers to derive fitness sessions which were less time consuming. On the other hand, the study also included responses on such industries as financial services and healthcare where women felt neglected and underserved. Considering that womens income margins are quite high and they continue to rise, they are required to access effective financial services. Women cited disrespect, stereotyping, poor advice and contradictory policies as some of the characteristics of financial institutions. It was clear that these institutions needed to review their approaches and embark on a marketing strategy aimed at keeping women customers happy. The conclusions made in the article are derived from a logical and comprehensive evaluation of the research findings. The article draws from insights on the future outlook of the worlds economy and the effects of the ever growing female workforce. The future of most companies lies at the hand of women as they make up the majority of the worlds consumer spenders. Furthermore, as the research sought to answer the research questions it studies various segments which define women and their consumer needs. As the article concludes that women will continue to experience challenges in such areas, companies must target the specific needs of women. Women are seen to respond to services which encourage love, care and respect which provide a clear picture of what companies should do in order to accrue more sales. The article has in no way illustrated limitations for the research which indicates a subjective form of study. It is crucial to indicate shortcomings of a study and cite areas where mo re research should be carried out. Nevertheless, the article is indeed quite informative and provides ample insights for marketers and companies dealing with women consumers. References Bell, J. (2005). Doing your Research Project: A Guide for First Time Researchers in Educationand Social Science. Berkshire: Open University Press. Hewson, C. (2003). Internet Research Methods: A Practical Guide for the Social and Behavioral Science. London: Sage Publications Ltd. Ragin, C.C. (1994). Constructing Social Research: The Unity and Diversity of Method. California: Pine Forge Press. Sayre, K., and Silverstein, M.J. (September, 2009). The Female Economy Harvard Business Review. hbr.org Walliman, N. (2006). Social Research Methods. London: Sage Publications Ltd.

Use of Symbols and Symbolism in The Great Gatsby Essay -- Great Gatsby

Symbolism plays an important role in any novel of literary merit. In his novel The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald uses symbols to portray events, feelings, personalities and time periods. Throughout the narrative, Fitzgerald uses strong contrasting symbols such as West Egg and East Egg. His superior use of other predominant symbols such as color and light are also evident throughout the novel. The story begins as the narrator, Nick Carraway, describes his arrival to West Egg. One can immediately spot "new-money Gatsby and no-money Nick on one side of the bay and old-money Buchanans on the other" (Tanner x). The superiority of East Egg to West Egg is instantly apparent and has much meaning. East Egg represents the high class, the dignified and the elite. The people who live in East Egg come from wealthy family lines. In opposition to this, West Egg represents the newly rich or those with almost no money at all. There is much arrogance and disdain between these two groups as can be noted on page 16 of the novel when Jordan Baker "remarks contemptuously" on the fact that Nick lives in West Egg. The symbolism of eggs can be further explained. During one of Gatsby's parties, Nick is offered an egg. He cracks it open and finds a beccafico, a delicacy, and a treasure. Tanner remarks on this striking parallel to the "New World". If one looks at America and what it has created, does one see a "disgusting, aborted, stunted and still-born thing, fit only to be thrown away? Or a treasure, something special (...) and marvelous and rare?" (x). The Eggs in the novel represent the two parts of America: one (East Egg), materialistic, superficial and self-indulgent and the other (West Egg), which is always awaiting the coming of someth... ...ott Fitzgerald's Criticism of America." Modern Critical Interpretations: F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. 11-27. Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. England: Penguin, 1990. Tanner, Tony. "Introduction." The Great Gatsby. Author F. Scott Fitzgerald. England: Penguin, 1990. vii-lvi. Way, Brian. "The Great Gatsby." Modern Critical Interpretations: F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. 87-108. Hack, Robert and Libby Stockstill. "Colour in The Great Gatsby." http://www.nmusd.k12.ca.us/cdmhs/gatsbycenter/roberthack&libbystockstill. November 29th 1997, 5:16pm. O'Brien, Meghan et al. "Colour Imagery in The Great Gatsby." http://www.nmusd.k12.ca.us/cdmhs/gatsbycenter/meghanobrien/gg.html. November 29th 1997, 5:23pm.

Life Struggling Against Death in Shakespeares Sixtieth Sonnet (Sonnet

Life Struggling Against Death in Shakespeare's Sixtieth Sonnet (Sonnet 60) Shakespeare's sixtieth sonnet is probably addressed to the same young, male friend to whom most or all of the earlier sonnets are said to be addressed. The sonnet does not specify this, however, so it could be to anyone or everyone. The theme is certainly universal; time steals human life away, but poetry is immortal. The poet uses diction and imagery to paint a picture of life struggling against death and losing.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The speaker of the sonnet tells the audience in the first quatrain that human life is fleeting. He or she refers to life as "our minutes" (813). This is a twist on the traditional expression "our days." The use of "minutes" in place of "days" makes life seem even shorter and gives the poem a sense of urgency. The speaker uses wave imagery to show the audience that life is rushing: "Like as the waves make toward the pibbled shore,/ So do our minutes hasten to their end" (813). The wave is a very appropriate symbol for life. First it is nonexistent, then it becomes a small groove on the water, then it swells to greatness. As it grows in size, it speeds up, as life seems to speed up as people grow older.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The speaker says that the minutes of life are "Each changing place with that which goes before,/ In sequent toil all forwards do contend" (813). The speaker treats the minutes of life without glamour. The minutes, like the waves, pass in the same way as those that wint before them. The speaker uses the word "toil" to imply that life is drudgery. The wave, even when swollen to its zenith acts in an imitative and monotonous way. Then it begins to shrink more quickly than it grew, finally dissipating as it crashes o... ...d nothing stands but for his scythe to mow," but in the next line says that the "verse shall stand" (813). The speaker also implies that the poetry might be written more in spite of Time than in praise of the audience. "The worth" of the audience is mentioned only once, while the mighty enemy, Time, is the focus. The victor over Time is the verse.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The speaker of the poem tells the audience that he or she should be flattered that they were chosen as the subject of the speaker's poetry. The speaker convinces the audience that life is weak and Time is strong, but the speaker's poetry is stronger still. Perhaps the speaker felt that the audience was not appreciative enough of some previous efforts at immortalizing him or her in verse! For whatever reason, the speaker of Sonnet Sixty gives the audience a profound example of the importance of poetry.   

Salvador Dali

Salvador Dali Salvador Dali, one of the most famous artists of the 20th century, was very active even in the latter part of his life. He not only painted, but also showed to be creative in the artistic world in general. He traveled, and along the way learned different techniques of painting, but always went back to paint as he described it ‘hand painted dream photographs’. (Sandoval, 1998) Dali emerged as a leader of the Surrealist movement, where he was the most faithful and only true surrealist, although he was later expelled from because of his political views and more traditional work. During this time he created a painting, Persistence of Memory (1931), which is still on of the best-known surrealist works. (Sandoval, 1998) Dali’s work was different to others since all of his discoveries and inventions are reflected in his work and appear in them in a scarcely transposed form. He and Gala later moved to the United States, during World War II, were he devoted himself to self-publicity and began to paint pictures of religious themes. One of these paintings includes, The Crucifixion of St John of the Cross, (1951). During this time, he also showed the world that he was not only a great painter, but had other talents as well. For example, he designed jewelry, apartments, clothing, costumes, shop interiors, and stage sets. Along with this he also worked for Vogue and Haper’s Bazaar. (Neret, 1997) This also led him to take part in the production of films such as, ‘An Andalusian Dog’ and ‘The Golden Age’, where he worked in collaboration with Bunuel. (Folkes, 1999) Gigantism was predominant in Dali’s late work. The paintings that he created during this part of his life were a combination of all of the styles, which he had worked on. They include: Surrealism, â€Å"quintessential pompierism†, pointillism, action painting, Tachisme, geometric abstraction, Pop art, Op art, and psychedelic art. (Neret, 1997) Some of these pictures include, The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus (1958-59), and Tuna Fishing (1966-67). Stereoscopy was also used by Dali in some of his paintings such as, Dali from the Back, Painting Gala from the Back, Etermalized by Six Virtual Corneas Provisionally Reflected in Six real Mirrors (1972-73) or Dali Lifting the Skin of the Mediterranean Sea to Show Gala the Birth of Venus (1977), to name a couple, to paint his last visual poems. Neret, 1997) Dali also had a couple of exhibits in the final stage of his life. Some of these included exhibits in Rome and Venice, nuclear mysticism, in 1951, and at the National Gallery, in Washington, DC, in 1956. Dali continued to work on paintings and books, and continued to travel to promote his latest creations, until the death of his wife G ala in 1982. A year later the creation of his perfume known as â€Å"Dali† came out along with his last painting, The Swallow’s Tail. Neret, 1997) He then lived in isolation from the world for a few years in Torre Galatea, when he began to endure some health issues. A few years later, January 23, 1989, Dali died of heart failure. References Folkes, S. T. (1999) Salvador Dali, Life. History. Art. Retrieved February 29, 2004, from: http://www. seven7. demon. co. uk/dali/history. htm Neret, G. (1997). Salvador Dali. San Diego, CA: Thunder Bay Press Sandoval, J. (1998) Dada and Surrealism: Salvador Dali Biography. Retrieved February 29, 2004, from: http://www. duke. edu Salvador Dali Salvador Feline Action Dali lived to be among the most versatile and creative artists of the twentieth century. Dali was born on the 1 lath of March 1904 in Spain and he was one of history greatest surrealist and broad-minded artists. Surrealism is defined as opening up one's mind and accessing an unconscious world, through an area of art. During his childhood, Dali soon discovered that he was on the earth solely for the reason to be an artist. Dali earned a reputation as a malicious being, as he was expelled from his school for extravagant behavior.Dali had portrayed his ideas ND thoughts on a canvas, through his own understanding of discovering a new world based on the unconscious mind. His paintings also display a charisma and attraction for Classical and Renaissance art. This was clearly visible as his later works evinces hyper-realistic style and religious symbolism. Dali was often associated with the Surrealist movement, despite his removal from the group in 1934 due to his unr eceptive political views.Salvador Dali is one of the most celebrated artists of the surrealist movement; being known for his conspicuous surrealist work as well as his minting techniques resounding that of Renaissance art. Dali was born in Figures, Catalonia, Spain and belonged to a very prosperous family. Dali was ten years old when he had his first drawing lesson whilst demonstrating hysterical yet rage-filled outbursts towards his family and playmates. Pursuing his interest in art, he entered the Madrid School of Fine Arts in 1921.Dali was in his early ass in 1920, when he first heard about a group of experimental artists in Paris. As it was depicted as strange, they had to invent a new word to describe their art: surreal. Surrealism began as a iterate and artistic movement. Andre Breton, a French Poet, had inspired many others after him, by discovering this new form of art. It was a revolutionary response to the devastation of the First World War. It was also inspired by the psy choanalytical concepts of Sigmund Freud. Freud believed that all of us possess an inner unconscious world, in which our emotional and sexual feelings are oppressed and the only way to express ourselves is to release emotions without censoring what comes out' [1]. Dalais artistic profession commenced when he was expelled from the Madrid School of Fine Arts in 1924. By that time, Dali was already exhibiting work locally. He was invited by Andre Breton to Join the surrealists, when he moved to Paris.For the next several years, Dali had incorporated his illustrative theories into his paintings, displaying his thoughts about the psychological state of paranoia and its importance as a subject. He called this method the ‘paranoia-critical activity, which is a surrealist method used to help an artist enter their subconscious through a systematic irrational thought and a self-persuaded paranoid state. Around this period, Dali had also developed a short surrealist film that was directed by Luis Bungee, called Un Chine Nodal (An Andalusia Dog).Dali became so infamous because the subject matter of the film was so sexually and politically shocking. Dali had produced many important works during this period, which included William Tell (1930), The Persistence of Memory (1931), Dormouse, Coeval, and Lion invisible and the Birth of Liquid Desires (1932), Breton had dismissed Dali from the Surrealist group in 1934 as a result of his differing views on General Franco and fascism. Dali had then moved to Italy in 1937, and practiced more traditional painting styles. Meanwhile, he had married Gala, the first wife of the founders of the surrealist movement.Gala was perhaps the most important and influential figure in Dalais life. His paintings during the sass and sass focused more on religious themes, reproducing his enduring attraction of the supernatural. He had rendered many traditional still-like objects into his work. He continued employing his ‘paranoia- critical' method. In 1955, he returned to Spain, becoming rather withdrawn. Regardless he continued to paint until his death in the 1980. Salvador Dali influenced the manner of which modern artists use the method of ‘revealing the gap teen reality and illusion' [2].His artwork provides a glimpse into the intimate world of an individual's subconscious. His outstanding yet somewhat grotesque dreamless and paintings effortlessly evoke emotion from a viewer. His work delivers a disconcerting impression of psychological hallucinations. Drawing on Dalais belief of unearthing the subconscious, many second generation surrealists such as Joseph Cornwall, and other abstract expressionists continued to incorporate Dalais influence in their work. Arguably, the twentieth century's most eccentric and successful artist was thought to have been referring to Dali.He is truly one of history greatest surrealists. As a Spanish-Catalan painter, entering the Madrid school of fine arts was Dalais first step t o becoming a great artist. Discovering surrealism had changed Dalais life forever, Joining great surrealists such as Andre Breton. He developed painting methods, illustrating his theories of psychological state of paranoia and its importance as a subject matter. Salvador Feline Action Dali was the most influential contributor to the surrealist movement, leaving behind an impact on modern art. Salvador Dali Vanishes† sees UN Ecuador whiz poor el artists Salvador Feline Action Dali. Cosec © Salvador Dali y est. Ecuador porous De com pià ±ata. Us USA el still De surrealist, per us Trojan sees realists. Poor example, en â€Å"The Image Vanishes,† Mira realists, per hack UN concept De surrealist. Edema ¤s, you jocose Dali porous me gusts el rate De Dali. Me gusts us Trojan y rate porous us still surrealist sees Ã'Ëœnice y creative. Tamaki ©n me gusts us rate porous De us ideas y el significant deter ¤s De cad painter. Ho, SE upped encounter e]employ De us rate en SST. Petersburg, Florida; Berlin Germany; Paris, France; Catalina, Spawn.Salvador Feline Action Dali is a Spanish artist that is considered the personification of surrealism. Dali was born in 1904 in Catalina, Spain. He spent the early part of his life with his rich parent's and attended the Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid. Then, he moved away to Join the Surrealist movement in 1934. He spent most of his live d oing this in Madrid, Spain; Paris, France; and New York. The style that he used was surrealism, but he painted his portraits and other paintings realistically. Surrealism is the type of style that is not realistic and expresses the power of imagination. â€Å"TheImage Vanishes† is a painting made by the artist, Salvador Feline Action Dali. I chose Salvador Dali and this painting because of how he paints. He uses the surrealistic style, but his work is realistic. For example, en â€Å"The Image Vanishes,† it looks realistic, but it uses a surrealistic concept. In addition, I chose Dali because I like the art of Dali. I like his work and art because of his surrealistic style is unique and creative. Also, I like his art because of his ideas and the significance behind each painting. Today, examples of his art can be found in SST. Petersburg, Florida; Berlin Germany; Paris, France; Catalina, Spawn.

Markerting Concept Coca Cola

This is assignment will require to explain the underlying principles behind the main marketing theories, it will also require an in-depth application, analysis and evaluation of a good or service that is currently available both in the UK market and in the international market. The Product that will be analyses within the assignment is The Coca Cola Company (CCC). [pic] â€Å"Business idea or philosophy based on the importance of profit, consumer satisfaction and the welfare of the general public. † [5] Collin, P (1997)The Coca Cola Company is one the biggest successful soft drink company that offers 3,500 various diverse products to over 200 countries worldwide. The company originated in 1889 by pharmacist Dr John Pemberton. Dr Pemberton carried out a jug of Coca Cola syrup at his Jacob Pharmacy in Atlanta USA. [3] Marketing Mix Marketing mix can be defined as the combination of elements in an organisation’s offering the market; ‘offerings’ being either pr oducts or service. These elements were identified as Product, Price, Place and Promotion in early versions of the mix. As result, they are known as the Four Ps. [pic] [1] (2008).Portfolio. Product The marketing mix combines many factors, but consumers view marketing effort in more tangible terms of the product. It is important for marketers to recognise that much of the ‘want-satisfying’ nature of the product is derived from consumers perceptions. The true nature of the product is how the consumer perceives it, and not what the company would like it to be. CCC product first started in 1886, when they were originally made as soda fountain drink. The company has now expanded over to 3,500 diverse product (see picture above). They offer a wide range product form soft drinks to tea drinks to bottle water.The typical famous packaging of red and white CCC products is a world recognised. The coca cola company is the most sold soft drink across worldwide. Its not only sold busi ness to business (b2b) such as sold in restaurants, pubs and convenience stores but also sold business to consumer (b2c) such as supermarkets, vending machines and other service shops. [3] Price Price is a potent element of the marketing mix because of its direct impact on customers, the company and the economy. To the consumer, price is a major indication of quality and an important factor in the decision making process.For CCC, the price at which the product is sold represents the means of recouping cost and making profit. There are various ways to price coca cola product, depending on the retailer. Supermarkets may put coca cola on promotion one week and then Pepsi the following, as they always like to stay one step ahead of their competition. It is a way to keep consumers on their toes. There is no set price for CCC, but usually the prices are based on growing rates. [8] p27 Place Place concerns activities need to move the product from the seller to the buyer and its origin is i n the word ‘placement’.The coca cola company sell their various products over numerous countries worldwide. They have more brand products than Pepsi, Tango RC Cola put together. Although coca cola produces the product, they cannot be held responsible how the products are distributed across the countries. They can only rely on the suppliers following the strict guidelines set out by coca cola. [8] p31 Promotion Promotion is perhaps the element of the marketing mix that is most subject to variation. For some product it may play a minimal role, but, for other, marketing strategy may be almost entirely based on promotion.In consumer markets, promotion often has the highest budget allocation of all mix elements. For this reason it receives much attention as a marketing function. CCC promotional strategies are to make the consumers think they have control over what they are drinking and accomplishing there needs of thirst. On each bottle, coca cola encourages consumers to go to their website to learn more about hydration, sweeteners and taste. In order to boost consumer usage, CCC have taken their product to foreign markets and increased their profit margin.This was also done as they had home market competitors such as Pepsi, going international will make there brand more recognisable. CCC believes in forceful advertisements, branding and market segmentation has been a big accomplishment to CCC. Since the early 70’s they have always exposed themselves as fun, loving, playful brand to have an international appeal. [8] p29 In 1887 Coupon were first made to promote coca cola [pic] [2] (2012). 125 years of sharing happiness Customer Relationship Management CCC cannot succeed or grow unless they can serve their customers with a better value proposition than the competition.Measuring customer loyalty can accurately appraise the weakness in CCC proposition and help to formulate improvements. In fact, attempting to measure customer satisfaction and facto ring research information on satisfaction studies into future marketing strategies is one of the fastest growing areas of marketing research. Customer care is fundamental to the concept in customer relationship management (CRM). High quality customer care is the key to achieving coca cola objective confronting all competitive firms trying to apply CRM principles, such as: ? Minimising customer turnover. Attracting new customers. ? Retaining customers over the long term. ? Improving profitability. ? Enhancing company image. ? Improving customer and employee satisfaction. With a strong CRM team, coco cola are still strong as ever, they evaluated every feedback they receive from their customers with shows they are always trying to meet the consumers needs by not only improving for the future but to keep up with the current trends. [8] p120-123 External Environmental Trading environment analysis requires CCC to look beyond its immediate market to its wider trading environment.One helpfu l abbreviation in analysing the trading environment is PEST. The initial letters stand for the Political, Economic, Social and Technological environment. The Political environment includes possible changes to law and regulation governing the markets in which coca cola is operating. Possible changes in government policy, such as new legislation or regulation of food and drinking products. Or even government involvement in labelling and advertisements. If all this was to be changed and affect coca cola, it will create more operating expense and reduce the profit margin.The Economic environment refers to trends in the world economy, and those in particular national market. CCC must be particularly to those that most affect its own business. As CCC is trading worldwide, the range of economic indicators, which it tracks, might include: ? Contracts with other soft drink industries. ? Maintain a Profitable investment in communities worldwide. ? The United Kingdom has recently experienced a n economic recession. This period of negative growth includes higher unemployment, inflation, and cost of living expenses while consumers are experiencing lower disposable income and purchasing power. CCC has been very successful in helping other nations grow and become economically stable by investing millions of Pounds back into the countries in which they are operating. The Social Environment refers to trend in the structure of society and in behaviour and is the focus of much of what is called market research. CCC have developed numerous products to suit consumer’s trends. For example, a lot of consumers are health conscious, so bringing out diet coke encouraged them to drink the brand. However, a lot of people saw the drink very girly so it soon was perceived as girls drink, as there’s no calories involved with the drink.Soon coca cola brought out Coke Zero, a similar drink but for men. It has now become one of the best selling drink worldwide. CCC are continuing to follow and keep updated with the product development and marketing for healthy choice obtainable. The Technological environment is that concerned with the use of raw materials, production processes and finished products, and particularly with innovation. Such as CCC is the soft drink industry; the development of a plastic material has reduced the use of glass bottle dramatically. CCC also have threats technological.For this, they implement more investments in their research department so they can progress monitoring of the sales, production and delivery process between themselves and other soft drink companies’. [7] p18-19 Purchase Decision There are three way of purchase decision for CCC: Straight re-purchase = this is the most frequent type of purchase. The consumer repeats – buys a CCC product purchased on previous occasion. This occurs most frequently in circumstances in which a consumer is loyal to a brand and is reluctant to try an alternative.Modified re-purc hase = this occurs when a consumer needs to change their behaviour. This might be because the habitual brand is out-of-stock and a near substitute is selected; it might be prompted by the changed needs of the consumer; it might be promoted by the updating of an existing product; it might be prompted by promotional activity by a competing product. New purchase = this refers to that category of purchase, which is being made for the first time. Here promotion plays a key role in stimulating demand for products, notifying consumer of their availability, and in reassuring consumer about their purchase. 7] p57 Competitive Environment The competitive environment affects the commercial prosperity of a company. Many UK manufactures in industries like steel and textile have experience intense competition from foreign product. Management team must be alert to potential threats from cheaper import or substitute products and establish exactly who their competitors are and the benefits they offer to the marketplace so they can compete more effectively. [8] p17 Two indicator of enormous importance to a management teams are market share and market growth.Market share is a term, which refers to the proportion of total sales for one product group, which is, enjoy by a particular brand. According to Stephen Page book to Induction to marketing CCC enjoyed 58 per cent share of the total sales of cola drink in the UK in 1992. According to Best Global Brand CCC is ranked number one, valued just over $71 Billion. Leaving their main competitors Pepsi ranked at number 22nd, only valued at $14 million. [6] Buyer Behaviour CCC needs to know when, where, how and why soft drinks are purchased.They need to know who is making the purchase and what factors influence those decisions. In particular, they examine buyer behaviour to look for patterns, which may give a clue to future behaviour, as well as explanation for the existence of those patterns. Buyer term refers not only to someone who is buying for own consumption, but also to anyone who buys on behalf of others. For example, it could be an adult of a household buying on behalf of a child. Buyer behaviour in business-to-business market is an area that has not been as well researched as consumer behaviour.First it is because these markets are often much smaller than consumer markets, and would not therefore justify the production of off-the-shelf data by commercial agencies. Hence not as much research has been undertaken. Secondly, industrial buying decision-maker has been more difficult to research and categories than consumer. However, interest is now growing in the subject. [7] p56 Market Segmentation Marketing segmentation is the analysis of total demand in a market into its constituent parts, so that different sets of consumers, with distinctive needs and behavior patterns, can be identified.Market segmentation is defined as: â€Å"The process of breaking down the total market for a product or service into dis tinct sub-group or segments, where each segment might represent a distinct target market to be reached with a distinctive marketing mix. † [8] Lancaster G & Reynolds P (2002). Marketing made simple p38 To improve opportunities for success in a competitive marketplace, marketers must focus their efforts on clearly defines market targets. The intention is to select those groups of customers that the company is best able to serve so that competitive pressure is minimized. The advantages of CCC target marketing are: Marketing opportunities and ‘gaps’ in a market may be more accurately identified and appraised. ? Product and market appeals can be more finely tuned to the needs of the potential customer. ? Marketing effort can be focused on the market segments that offer the greatest potential for the company to achieve its objective. Previously in the 1960s, CCC made only one soft drink and proposed it at the entire soft drink market. But now CCC offers thousands of di fferent products to market segments based on diverse consumer preferences for flavours and calorie and caffeine content. CCC offers established soft drinks.One can see the many dimensions of CCC product line and how specific the marketing mixes have to be to stay competitive among other businesses. [8] p39 Market Planning At one extreme are those that plan everything down to the smallest detail, and adhere rigidly to the plan document, even when it does not appear to be working, perhaps because the plan is based upon inaccurate information or incorrect assumption. In an ideal situation, the evolution of an organisation marketing strategy and tactics will be top-down, bottom-up process; that is, one, which involves staff at all, levels from director to office junior.It will be an integral part of the organisations operation, and not simply a panic reaction to a crisis. It will be flexible enough to permit immediately workable ideas to be put into practice, without waiting for the fin al plan to be drawn up. It should not be cast in tablets of stone; if circumstances change during implementation of the plan, then the plan must change to. [7] p232 International Marketing from Domestic Marketing Companies that only ten years ago might have identified their main competitor as major domestic rival are now just as likely to refer to an company inEurope, USA or the Far East. Some organization outgrew their home market years ago, and now make most of their money outside their original national boundaries, to that extent, Corporations like CCC have become almost stateless, owing no allegiance to any particular country: their markets are global. International marketing does not differ fundamentally from domestic marketing; the same principal are involved. It differs only in that overseas markets, being both further away and containing consumer from other cultures, pose a higher degree of risk than those of known markets.Successful entry into an overseas market thus requir es even greater care and attention to planning. Ironically, most company enters oversea markets because they have surplus production that they want to dispose of. If, however, a business cannot sell its products at home, it is unlikely to be able to do so internationally. There is world of difference between simple exporting, and a proper approach to international marketing. [7] p216-217 For CCC, selling oversea is attractive because it enlarges their market beyond the confines of the nation state.However, there are other benefits too, including: ? Opportunities for growth, higher earning and higher profits. ? The spreading of risk, by reducing dependency upon any one national market. ? The spreading of fix cost across increases sales. ? Competitors’ brand can be attacked in their own home market. ? An CCC competitive edge is sharpened, by it being required to compete with the best in the world. ? The contribution to CCC feel good factor if it succeeds. Conclusion CCC believe s to drive the brand to the fullest success it can go.It will adapt to any changes for new products if it requires to society and consumers Sometime for consumer product change is good for international marketing. It is vital that the right product is made to suit consumers’ preference. CCC soft drinks did not appeal to the Japanese market; this meant CCC produced a product that the Japanese, Asian market would prefer. This was Asian tea, English tea, coffee and fermented-milk drink. Coke zero was brought out for the attention of men who where health conscious. Coke zero sounded less feminine like diet coke.CCC has shown that they will continue altering, improving and producing new ideas to attract to local taste. The CCC are always one step ahead of their game with their marketing effort. This has led them to profit throughout the years of developing into a billion dollar company. Their belief of being the best soft drink company worldwide has been their biggest accomplishme nt. CCC are not only involved with the best advertisement and marketing soft drinks, but also a difference in every corner of the world in which they operate.The Coca-Cola Company strives to go beyond simple marketing and reach into the hearts and lives of consumers. Bibliography [1] (2008). Portfolio. Available: http://www. thecoca-colacompany. com/citizenship/portfolio. html. Last accessed 25th Jan 2012. [2] (2012). 125 years of sharing happiness. Available: http://www. thecoca-colacompany. com/heritage/pdf/Coca-Cola_125_years_booklet. pdf. Last accessed 1st Feb 201 [3] (2012). Heritage. Available: http://www. thecoca-colacompany. com/heritage/ourheritage. html. Last accessed 1st Feb 2012. [4] (2012). Product Line. Available: http://www. hecoca-colacompany. com/brands/brandlist. html. Last accessed 1st Feb 2012 [5] Collin, P (1997). Dictionary of Marketing. 2nd ed. Middlesex: Peter Collins Publishing. p129 [6] Interbrand. (2011). Best Global Brand. Available: http://www. rankingth ebrands. com/The-Brand-Rankings. aspx? rankingID=37&year=368. Last accessed 1st Feb 2012. [7] Page, S (1995). Introductory Marketing. Cheltenham: Stanley Thornes LTD. P18- 19, 40, 43,56-58, 72-76, 232-234 [8] Lancaster G & Reynolds P (2002). Marketing made simple. Oxford: Butterworth- Heinemann. P14-18, 27-31,38-39, 120-123

Medical History and Online Clinic Management Essay

This section presents foreign related literatures relevant to the proposed system.   Computers are being employed in clinical medicine in hospitals for various purposes. They can act as arithmetic calculators, they can process and analysed output from the recording devices, and they can make possible the automation of various machine systems. However, in the field of case records their role is much less well defined, for here the organization of data as preliminary to computer input is the real stumbling-block. Data banks of retrospective selected clinical information have been in operation in some canters for the number of years. Attempts are now being made to design computerized â€Å"total information systems† to replace conventional paper records, and the possibility of automated diagnosis. Golla (2007) stated that record keeping is an organized way of storing valuable information about certain persons handling of such records the proposed system includes all the important records that are organize and place on the system database that are subjectively relating to the transaction of the hospital. According to Nanda (2006), the present situation of healthcare in developing countries like India are quite discouraging, as the physicians use a paper based system whereby they record patient information, diagnosis and treatments on a â€Å"Case Sheet†. Abdul (2008) mentions that each time a patient visits a hospital, a new case sheet is created, and this creates an excess of paperwork, repetition of examination done previously leading to over-consumption of work force and other resources. In India, the case sheet is an official and legal document written by healthcare staff about all the medical information of a patient. It includes past medical history, present complaints, results of examinations done, diagnosis and treatment and the condition of these medical records in public hospitals in quite disappointing. This situation is due to reluctant hospital administration or inefficient medical record staff and it is increasing constantly by the year. Abdul (2008) indicates th at one of the important issues in paper-based records are, all the clinical information is written in free style, and chances are high to miss or forget some important information, as this will lead to serious effect on patient’s treatment and care. The case sheet is a hard copy that can be accessed by one person at a time and needs physical transfer for other physicians to access. Retrieving a record will be a hard task given number of medical records present and missing a record won’t be a surprise in a huge pile of paper based medical records. Moreover, with time, information in paper records gets diminished of ageing paper and ink, even fire accidents or natural disasters can ruin the archive of paper records. Karim (2008) explains that all the above discussed issues can be over-come by implementing EMR/EPR systems, it can not only solve the problems but also improves the efficiency of healthcare by increasing accessibility, and needs less resources to maintain records. EPR system can be used as a resource of researchers, it will be a tool for disease surveillance, which can be used for public health initiatives and for practicing Evidence based medicine. â€Å"It is nearly impossible to overemphasize the importance of keeping inventory levels under control,† Ronald Pachura wrote in an article for IIE Solutions. â€Å"Whether the problems incurred are caused by carrying too little or too much inventory, manufacturers need to become aware that inventory control is not just a materials management or warehouse department issue. The purchasing, receiving, engineering, manufacturing, and accounting departments all contribute to the accuracy of the inventory methods and records.† It is little wonder that business experts commonly cite inventory management as a vital element that can spell the difference between success and failure in today’s keenly competitive business world. Writing in Production and Inventory Management Journal, Godwin Udo described telecommunications technology as a critical organizational asset that can help a company realize important competitive gains in the area of inventory management. According to Udo, companies that make good use of this technology are far better equipped to succeed than those who rely on outdated or unwieldy methods of inventory control. Automation can draidatically affect all phases of inventory management, including counting and monitoring of inventory items; recording and retrieval of item storage locations; recording changes to inventory; and anticipating inventory needs, including inventory handling requirements. Local Literature This section presents local related literatures relevant to the proposed system. Technology has taken a big leap forward in 21st century, with computer programs, electronics upgrading by the month & even by the day. Technology has influenced & greatly simplified almost in every aspect of a student’s life today. â€Å"Having computers in the workplace has enable the business to our more efficiently and has contributed in having on all around better businesses, using computers cut down our work time, we don’t have to write everything out by hands or type out on typewriters. This increase in usage of computer proves that computers have affected every aspect of our lives and have become one of the necessities. Many developers have contributed to such an advancement and widespread of computer technology.† stated Magnaye(2010). In the modern world, any business firm or any organization, without IT is totally unable to cope up or run their business firm smoothly. Without IT, a firm is considered out of the world. Azhar (2012) states that an IT can consider as an asset for a firm. It not only makes easier our day to day activities, but also adds many benefits and enables a firm to give better services to its consumers. For any kind of business organization, in its IT sector the most important part is database software. Database software could help a firm in many ways. Local Studies This section presents local studies conducted around the country that is relevant to proposed system. The researchers from Adamson University created a system entitled Computerized Patient’s Medical History. This system provides the record-keeping aspect of the patient’s information based on the registration of patient, recording of patients’ additional information which includes patients’ family medical history on hereditary illness, medicinal allergies, medications and immunization. The medical treatment conducted by the physician and all the prescriptions. Reports generated will be the medical record itself which includes all the information from previous treatment and prescriptions up to present. The master list of the patient’s and the physician will also be supplied by the system. Cruz (1990) stated that this computerized medical history system is conducted to provide all the solution to the problems that many physicians encountered. It will h elp the medical record officers in making their jobs easier, for the reason that it will be less time consuming, records can be retrieved easily and the most important, is the medical history of patients’ will be accurate and efficient. This system is very user-friendly to the people who are responsible for that. A user could perform it without the assistance of others. According to Sy(2009), In today’s modern age where computer has become a way of life, it is evident that a majority of the country’s institutions still do not adapt the high technology. Particularly in most medical clinic facilities, daily clinic transactions are still done on paper. We all know that modern clinics are now operating at great pace striving to serve as many patients as possible with the best of their abilities. But as the years rolled by, the number of patients has grown and various medical cases arise that the manual method of managing patients’ records, prescriptions, billing and appointment schedule, is no longer practical. In his study, he hope to develop a web-based application that will minimize all paper works and manual records keeping, therefore allowing doctors and staff ease in keeping track of patients, reducing patients’ waiting time and increasing the number of patients served – a system that is fully automated, user-friendly, time effective and efficient. The general objective of his study is to design and develop an online clinic management solution that will serve as proposal to help doctors save time and resources with the automation of its daily clinic operations. In general, the focus of the study is directed towards the design and development of an online clinic management system. About five small to medium sized medical clinics with its doctors, staff and patients are randomly selected within Cebu area only from December 2007 to January 2008. The study is largely dependent on the honesty, sincerity and integrity of the respondents. In the proposed system, records and files are computerized and stored online for accessibility and portability. However, the proponents limit the online feature of the system to doctors and staff only. Web-access of the patients is not included. The system has a secure log-in for doctors and staff. Managing appointments is also integrated and billing statements and official receipts are automated as well as medical prescriptions and medical. According to Sy (2009), In today’s modern age where computer has become a way of life, it is evident that a majority of the country’s institutions still do not adapt the high technology. Particularly in most medical clinic facilities, daily clinic transactions are still done on paper. We all know that modern clinics are now operating at great pace striving to serve as many patients as possible with the best of their abilities. But as the years rolled by, the number of patients has grown and various medical cases arise that the manual method of managing patients’ records, prescriptions, billing and appointment schedule, is no longer practical. In his study, he hope to develop a web-based application that will minimize all paper works and manual records keeping, therefore allowing doctors and staff ease in keeping track of patients, reducing patients’ waiting time and increasing the number of patients served – a system that is fully automated, user-friendly, time effective and efficient. The general objective of his study is to design and develop an online clinic management solution that will serve as proposal to help doctors save time and resources with the automation of its daily clinic operations. In general, the focus of the study is directed towards the design and development of an online clinic management system. About five small to medium sized medical clinics with its doctors, staff and patients are randomly selected within Cebu area only from December 2007 to January 2008. The study is largely dependent on the honesty, sincerity and integrity of the respondents. In the proposed system, records and files are computerized and stored online for accessibility and portability. However, the proponents limit the online feature of the system to doctors and staff only. Web-access of the patients is not included. The system has a secure log-in for doctors and staff. Managing appointments is also integrated and billing statements and official receipts are automated as well as medical prescriptions and medical certificates. The proponents have used the Descriptive Research Method wherein the study is focused on present situations. Under the Descriptive Research Method, the technique used is the Survey Method, which is otherwise known as normative survey. The results and findings of the study should always be compared with the standards. The proponents have used the Descriptive Research Method wherein the study is focused on present situations. Under the Descriptive Research Method, the technique used is the Survey Method, which is otherwise known as normative survey. The results and findings of the study should always be compared with the standards. Foreign Studies This section presents foreign studies conducted across the country that is relevant to proposed system. According to Mak(2012), a major challenge in designing useful clinical information systems in dentistry is to incorporate clinical evidence based on dentists’ information needs and then integrate the system seamlessly into the complex clinical workflow. However, little is known about the actual information needs of dentists during treatment sessions. The purpose of the study is to identify general dentists’ information needs and the information sources they use to meet those needs in clinical settings so as to inform the design of dental information systems. A semi-structured interview was conducted with a convenience sample of 18 general dentists in the Pittsburgh area during clinical hours. One hundred and five patient cases were reported by these dentists. Interview transcripts were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis with a constant comparative method to id entify categories and themes regarding information needs and information source use patterns. Two top-level categories of information needs were identified: foreground and background information needs. To meet these needs, dentists used four types of information sources: clinical information/tasks, administrative tasks, patient education and professional development. Major themes of dentists’ unmet information needs include: (1) timely access to information on various subjects; (2) better visual representations of dental problems; (3) access to patient-specific evidence-based information; and (4) accurate, complete and consistent documentation of patient records. Resource use patterns include: (1) dentists’ information needs matched information source use; (2) little use of electronic sources took place during treatment; (3) source use depended on the nature and complexity of the dental problems; and (4) dentists routinely practiced cross-referencing to verify patient information. To conclude, Dentists have various information needs at the point of care. Among them, the needs for better visual representation and patient-specific evidence-based information are mostly unmet. While patient records and support staff remain the most used information sources, electronic sources other than electronic dental records (EDR) are rarely utilized during patient visits. For future development of dental information or clinical decision-support systems, developers should consider integrating high-quality, up-to-date clinical evidence into comprehensive and easily accessible EDRs as well as supporting dentists’ resource use patterns as identified in the study. References: Azhar, R. (2012). â€Å"Hotel Database System†. From http://www.studymode.com/essays/Hotel-Database-System-1255140.html Banayat, I.R. (2010). â€Å"Foreign and Local Literature About Sales and Inventory System.† From http://www.studymode.com/essays/Foreign-And-Local-Literature-About-Sales-439148.html Cruz, R.M. (1999). â€Å"Computerized Patients’ Medical History† Sy, M.C. (2009). â€Å"Thesis-Chapter-1†from http://www.scribd.com/doc/11757456/Thesis-Chapter-1 â€Å"Patient Information and Billing System† from http://www.studymode.com/essays/Patient-Information-And-Billing-System-1070478.html â€Å"Indian Electronic Patient Record System†. From https://sites.google.com/site/electronicpatientrecordsystems/

Beauty: Analysis of the Idea of Beauty

Beauty: Analysis of the Idea of Beauty Is beauty only skin deep? What role, if any, does society play in the views of beauty? Does body modification enhance or detract from a person’s beauty? What role does the idea of beauty play in a person’s life? The idea of beauty is something that has changed over generations, and is something that is constantly evolving to this day. The idea of beauty is shaped by media interaction, societal views, and also engaged in by body modification whether that modification be piercing, tattooing, extreme dieting, plastic surgery, or otherwise. Do we, as a society, overvalue the idea of beauty? People use various practices to shape their bodies into culturally defined ideal physiques, and media both construct and reinforce beauty ideals. † (Jackson & Lyons, 2012) Beauty is defined by the culture a person lives in, grew up in, and is shaped by throughout life. The idea of beauty is never the same for any person, but can have similar c haracteristics. The media, which is a conduit of the social norm, defines beauty everyday and many feel the need to change themselves in order to fit this idea. â€Å"Within contemporary Westernized cultures there is a pervasive interest in practices aimed at altering the human physique.Such practices, which include cosmetic surgery, bodybuilding, dietary modification, exercise regimes, and eating disorders, signify a cultural fascination with (a pursuit of) the ‘perfect’ body. † (Jackson & Lyons, 2012) Some people dedicate their entire lives for the quest to find their ideal of beauty, to become that ideal and to fall into what is deemed as beautiful by societal standards set in place. But is this correct? Is the ideal of beauty presented by the media, and interpreted by the viewer, correct? Are people motivated to modify their bodies because they are dissatisfied with the image of their body? Body image dissatisfaction is pervasive in America. We believe this d issatisfaction may motivate many persons to undergo cosmetic surgery,† indicates David Sarwer, assistant professor of psychology in psychiatry and surgery at the Center for Human Appearance. â€Å"Many persons hope that cosmetic surgery will help them feel better about their appearance, which, in turn, may promote other psychological benefits, such as improved self-esteem. † (USA, 1999) Many people turn to plastic surgery to modify their bodies because they want to be thought of as beautiful, whether it be by themselves, another person, or society as a whole.Some people can even take drastic measures and develop unhealthy mental conditions which would make them undergo plastic surgery in a desperate attempt to â€Å"fix† themselves. â€Å"Extreme body image dissatisfaction can be a symptom of body dysmorphic disorder, a psychiatric condition defined as a preoccupation with a slight defect in appearance that leads to excessive concern and interruption in daily fu nctioning. † (USA, 1999) But by going through such extremes, is a person really gaining beauty or are they really demolishing what was already beautiful in the first place?Is being dissatisfied with their body, because of the ideals of beauty pressured onto individuals by society, really a reason to change their image through such a drastic measure as plastic surgery? If body modification through plastic surgery is used to capture that â€Å"ideal beauty†, then what about other forms such as piercing, tattooing, carving, or otherwise? Are those deemed acceptable ways to encompass that idea of beauty presented by society? â€Å"Rumbling through the biker culture and punk, piercing gradually shed its outlaw image and was mass marketed to the impressionable by music videos, rock stars and models. (Leo, 1995) Such extreme forms of body modification are presented by the media and societal pressures to be acceptable, fashionable, and â€Å"in style†. As such, many peo ple leap at the idea to become beautiful through such extreme measures. â€Å"Fashions and fetishes. [†¦]Some ask for dramatic piercings to enhance sexual pleasure, to seem daring or fashionable, to express rage, or to forge a group identity. [†¦]Piercing is part of the broader â€Å"body modification† movement, which includes tattooing, corsetry, branding and scarring by knife. It's a sign of the times that the more bizarre expressions of this movement keep pushing into the mainstream. (Leo, 1995) But is that all there is to it? Media has deemed such body modification to be acceptable, and society has agreed that it is an idea of beauty. The arguments for, and against, the idea of beauty presented by the media, accepted and enforced by society, and the extremes at which people can go to gain that ideal beauty can be found everywhere. Is beauty only skin deep? Do we, as a society, overvalue the idea of beauty? Media can incite people to what ideal beauty is. Societ y enforces these views and pressure people into fitting it.Body modification is used by many to gain that idea beauty. But in the end, is that ideal beauty of the skin and body correct or even worth it? References: JACKSON, J. , ; LYONS, T. C. (2012). The perfect body: Men and women negotiate spaces of resistance against beauty and gender ideologies. Women's Studies Journal, 26(1), 25-33. USA, T. (1999, February). Focusing on body image dissatisfaction. USA Today, 127(2645), Leo, J. (1995, 7 23). The ‘modern primatives'. U. S. News. Retrieved from http://www. usnews. com/usnews/opinion/articles/950731/archive_032505. htm