Free Essays on Peloponnesian War

In Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War, the author describes and analyzes the conflict which occurred between the city-states of Athens and Sparta (and their respective allies) from 431-404 BCE. More importantly, Thucydides provides the reader with justification for the Spartan victory that resulted from this conflict. The main reason for the Spartan victory, according to Thucydides, is shown in the ultimate viability of each polis’ leader's strategies and projections before the conflict. Prior to any fighting, Pericles of Athens and Archidamus of Sparta (with the aid of Spartan allies) devised net assessments that both believed would provide strategies leading to victory and peace for their respective states. In essence, these net assessments can be broken down into three elements: first, an understanding of the nature of the war; second, the identification of the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy to identify a comparative advantage; and finally, the devis ing of a strategy to achieve victory. As Thucydides argues, the Spartans did a superior job of net assessment in all three of these elements prior to the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War. Spartan Strategy Sparta’s King Archidamus took the realistic approach to the potential war: by realizing the inevitable failure of diplomacy efforts with Athens, he instead chose to prepare his own polis for war under the guise of these so-called diplomatic efforts. As he explained in a speech, â€Å"If [the Athenians] pay attention to our diplomatic protests, so much the better. If they do not, then, after two or three years have passed, we shall be in a much sounder position and can attack them† (The Peloponnesian War, p. 84). Secondly, noting Athens' naval superiority, Archidamus was fully aware that a conflict between Athens and Sparta was not an affair that could be ended quickly. Archidamus knew that the Athenians were unlikely to fight an infantry-based war (Sparta’s a... Free Essays on Peloponnesian War Free Essays on Peloponnesian War In Thucydides’ History of the Peloponnesian War, the author describes and analyzes the conflict which occurred between the city-states of Athens and Sparta (and their respective allies) from 431-404 BCE. More importantly, Thucydides provides the reader with justification for the Spartan victory that resulted from this conflict. The main reason for the Spartan victory, according to Thucydides, is shown in the ultimate viability of each polis’ leader's strategies and projections before the conflict. Prior to any fighting, Pericles of Athens and Archidamus of Sparta (with the aid of Spartan allies) devised net assessments that both believed would provide strategies leading to victory and peace for their respective states. In essence, these net assessments can be broken down into three elements: first, an understanding of the nature of the war; second, the identification of the strengths and weaknesses of the enemy to identify a comparative advantage; and finally, the devis ing of a strategy to achieve victory. As Thucydides argues, the Spartans did a superior job of net assessment in all three of these elements prior to the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War. Spartan Strategy Sparta’s King Archidamus took the realistic approach to the potential war: by realizing the inevitable failure of diplomacy efforts with Athens, he instead chose to prepare his own polis for war under the guise of these so-called diplomatic efforts. As he explained in a speech, â€Å"If [the Athenians] pay attention to our diplomatic protests, so much the better. If they do not, then, after two or three years have passed, we shall be in a much sounder position and can attack them† (The Peloponnesian War, p. 84). Secondly, noting Athens' naval superiority, Archidamus was fully aware that a conflict between Athens and Sparta was not an affair that could be ended quickly. Archidamus knew that the Athenians were unlikely to fight an infantry-based war (Sparta’s a...

Green House Effect essays

Green House Effect essays The greenhouse effect being a natural phenomenon is directly affected by human activities such as new industrial processes, more extensive agriculture and a rapid increase in the world's population causing global warming. Greenhouse effect is like a double jeopardy. Without the natural greenhouse effect we would be living in a very chilly place the worlds average temperature would be minus 18 degree Celsius instead of 16 degree Celsius we are used to. Again, greenhouse effect, influenced by the careless human activities, is the reason of recent increase of average temperature of the earth, popularly known as global warming. The natural greenhouse effect is a phenomenon created by the heat energy radiated by the sun and greenhouse gases (water vapor, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and halocarbons) normally present in the atmosphere. Sunlight passes through the atmosphere, warming the Earth; in turn, the Earth radiates this energy back towards space. As suns energy passes through the atmosphere, greenhouse gases absorb part of the energy, while the remainder escapes into space. This means that some of the sun's energy becomes trapped thus making the lower part of the atmosphere, the Earth, warmer. Now, if the atmosphere accumulated all the trapped heat, then the Earth's temperature would just rise and rise, but it doesn't. The temperature only rises until the amount of infrared or long wave radiation leaving the Earth balances the amount of energy coming in from the sun. As long as the amount of greenhouse gases in the air stays the same, and as long as the amount of heat arriving from th e sun is constant, an equilibrium is established. This is a steady state where as much energy is lost to space as is gained from the sun. In this equilibrium, the natural greenhouse effect maintains the earths temperature at tolerable label. According to the scientist of Australian Academy...

Health, Environmental, and Socio-economic Impact of Organic Food Research Paper

Health, Environmental, and Socio-economic Impact of Organic Food Consumption - Research Paper Example Modern times have seen a dramatic increase of organic food consumption. More consumers are drawn towards buying organic food as it is perceived to offer more health benefits and less toxic chemical content. The sales of organic foods in the United States skyrocketed from 1 billion in 2001 to 23 billion in 2008 (Crinnion, 2010). This growth in organic food consumption may be driven by the growing interest of consumers towards healthy lifestyle and environmentally-friendly foods. Unlike inorganic foods, foods which are organically grown are propagated and reared without the use of pesticides, antibiotics, chemical fertilizers and other harmful chemicals (Winter & Davis, 2006). Thus, it possesses high nutritional content and an approximately â…“ less residue of pesticides (Crinnion, 2010; â€Å"Organic Food,† n.d.). In addition, organically grown crops and livestock do not pose a threat into the environment. Various environmental groups claimed that chemicals used in convent ionally propagating crops and breeding livestock contaminate the drinking water, and harm the surroundings (Fookes & Dalmeny, n.d.). However, some researchers argued that some facts about organic foods may be overlooked by consumers. In 2002 the United States Department of Agriculture warned the consumers of the parasites and bacteria found in organic crops. The absence of pesticides and preservatives in organically grown crops makes it more susceptible to bacteria and parasite infection. In turn, consuming organic crops may have an adverse effect to consumer’s health (as cited in Food Marketing Institute [FMI], 2007). This paper seeks to review and explore previous studies on the health and environmental effects of organically grown crops and livestock. This is to determine if the benefits of consuming organic foods outweigh its adverse effects. This paper will also delve into the social and economic impact of organic farming and further technological and research needs. Effects of organic foods in one’s Health A study conducted by Crinnion (2010) found that organic crops contain higher Iron, Phosphorous, Vitamin C as well as Magnesium. These nutrients are seldom found in conventionally-produced crops in the country. Thus, organically grown crops offer consumers a better nutrition. In addition, it contains a high amount of antioxidant phytochemical that repairs damaged cells and helps the body fight heart disease and Cancer. It hampers the development o f cancer cells by reducing mutagenic action of toxic chemicals. However the study conducted by the University of Minnesota found that organic foods contain 9.7 % of E. coli bacteria compared to 1.6% found in conventionally grown crops. Contamination of organically grown crops occurs due to the use of animal manure. Its usage increases the probability of consumers being infected with fecal bacteria. Researchers reiterated that organically grown crops are not considered a â€Å"high-risk food† (Morano, 2004). Organic Trade Association argued that there are no evidences suggesting that organic foods are not safe to consume. Organically grown food was found to possess lower harmful fungi compared to conventionally produced crops (as cited in FMI, 2007). A high amount of residue from toxic chemicals is commonly found in conventionally grown crops. This chemical residue may lessen the chances of procreation or giving birth. Seven hundred women who reported to be constantly exposed to pesticides were found to have high rate of miscarriage. Another longitudinal study conducted by University of Denmark found that women who have high amount of pesticide particularly Dieldren in their bloodstream are more at risk of developing breast cancer. Dieldrin is considered as one of the most common pesticides used in conventionally grown crops in previous years. Exposure to high level of Dieldrin causes

EPR Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

EPR - Essay Example The uniqueness of an ERP is that it can be implemented into large and small sized organizations alike. ERPs are divided into different modules like procurement, sales, marketing, etc. which makes it possible for an organization to implement only those modules that are descriptive of their business. Some of the widely known applications available off-the-shelf are my SAP by SAP, PeopleSoft by Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics by Microsoft and Sage ERP by Sage Group. Due to the popularity of 'free' technologies (paid by through advertisements), several open source ERP software are also available. ERPs have gained enormous popularity in the business world and are considered as a 'dream come true'. Thus by looking at the advantages it can be found out whether it is a good dream or not. (TechFaq, 2008) (Swartz and Orgill, 2001) A seller of cartons of steel nails gets an order through the customer service representative who forwards the request on the ERP system to the production department after checking all necessary customer information through the same ERP system. Procurement, Production and all other concerned departments see the same information and update it as its get completed. A route is created where the information is automatically sent to relevant departments who track it down till its completion and its sales to the customer through the Customer Relationship Management systems. The customer gets the carton of nails faster and with fewer errors while the company gets lower cost and tracking facility. Reality Check Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) appears to be a 'dream come true'. These commercial software packages promise the seamless integration of all the information flowing through a company. Mostly companies implement ERPs to try to integrate the financial and customer order information, standardize and improve organizational processes, reduce inventory and standardize HR information (Koch, 2008). However hidden costs such as training,

Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Marketing - Essay Example Balancing marketing mix enables the business to deliver its product in the right location within the stipulated time. Firms that demonstrate great consumer satisfaction are able to hold on large market shares because they respond effectively to consumer trends. Introduction Sustainability of an organisation depends on economic viability of the business in relation to customer’s behaviour. Business enterprises that post successful results in the market are able to convince consumers to buy their products as well as reciprocating consumer’s behaviour by providing products, which will satisfy consumer demands. Zara is an apparel company with outlets in famous cities of the world. The organisation traces its root in Spain; however, it has branches in major cities of the world. The concept that this paper intend to discuss is marketing of the company product. Marketing is a crucial element for the business because it dictates the viability of the sustainability of the busine ss. The report will explore various marketing aspects such as customer, market environment, and marketing mix in relation to the strategy of the business. Investigation of the above aspects will enable the report to make recommendation as well as developing future strategies of increasing the performance of the business. The operation of the company in foreign markets is a concern of this paper. The choice of market is very critical to the business performance. However, the knowledge of customer choices helps many enterprises to integrate their markets with respect to consumer behaviour. Zara The firm established its operation in 1975 in Galicia Spain. The firm has stretched its operation to cover large cities in the world. It retails products of textile with a focus on fashion trends that dictate the consumer behaviour in the clothing industry. The profit margin of the organisation has been consistently high, demonstrating that the organisation is economically viable. Currently, th e organisation has 2,692 stores across the world (Dutta, 2002:3). The organisation’s aim is to feed the markets with medium quality products at competitive prices. The idea is to ensure that the company products are selling in a highly competitive environment. The organisation relies on consumer trends in designing its products as well as setting the prices of the product. Clothing apparels pose a number of challenges to entrepreneurs because the consumption behaviour changes with fashion trends (Luo, 2008:6). This requirement dictates the marketing strategy of the product. For instance, the organisation has observed that high prices delay stock turn over which eventually reflects on the profit margin of the organisation. Zara’s manufacturing and stocking trend ensures that the customers’ tastes are available in the market at any given time. The idea seems to be influencing the manufacturing trends developed by the firm. Time is a concept that influences product behaviour in most cases. Some product have short expiry period while other have long expiry period. Whatever the case, market response for the company product dictates the manufacturing speed and the profit of the business. For example, Y products in the market may take two months in the market. The two months would be reflecting on the product demand patterns demonstrated by the consumers. However, when the organisation decides to change the prices of the

Organizational Characteristics Essay Example for Free

Organizational Characteristics Essay This paper will describe the culture and the organizational characteristics of a chosen organization, Publix Supermarkets. Detailed throughout will be the common characteristics of the organization as it operates on a day to day basis. Specifically the system based on individual units, rules and norms expected of the associates and supervisors as well as the hierarchy will be established for the reader to garner a better understanding. Furthermore, the communication networks, organizational orientation, approaches to and by leadership members, as well as the decision making and communication procedures put forth by members of management will be analyzed. This paper will describe which 4 of these listed characteristics are most influenced by communication between members and levels of Publix Supermarkets. The author has been employed with this supermarket chain for more than 7 years and has ample knowledge and understanding on the organization as a whole. Common Characteristics of an Organization Publix Supermarkets is a grocery chain unlike many others for a variety of reasons. Founded in 1930 in Winter haven, Florida by George W. Jenkins, Publix is known for its customer first atmosphere and pleasurable shopping experience. The grocery chain whose motto states they will never knowingly disappoint their customers operates in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee and currently has more than 1000 stores in operation (Publix.com). Jenkins’ supermarket chain has continued to grow on their customer friendly business sense. Publix has since become a Fortune 500 company and is privately held and owned by its employees. For as well as they treat their customers, the chain treats its associates and management staff just as well if not better. Publix workers who have been with the company a base number of years receive shares of stock for every 1000 hours worked, and can purchase more shares of stock at almost any time during a given year. The grocery chain is also well known for its high ranking employee benefits and treatment in the employment world. Rules/Norms (Written and Unwritten) Outside of the big green P logo, the Publix atmosphere is what customers relate to with the chain more than anything else. Communication with customers is a major asset in following proper Publix protocol. The smiling helpful associates, clean stores, and consumer friendly set up of product is where Publix truly prides itself as an organization. Each experience ends with a friendly cashier and bagger, and the bagger will always bring the customer to their vehicle and help load product into the car for them. Believe it or not this all relates to performance evaluations that are done quarterly, where associates are evaluated on their behavior amongst the customers. Customer intimacy is something Publix takes very seriously. The Publix image extends onto its associates as well. All employees are expected to show up to work on time and be clean shaven in full clean uniform attire. Each department and job class has their own specific uniform; however all include proper hygiene, reasonable hairstyling, and proper equipment to perform their tasks to better serve the shoppers. Publix is an organization that understands how to promote their brand by utilizing all available options to do so. Clean stores and clean happy associates promote the â€Å"Publix Way.† This plays a major role in nonverbal communication between Publix associates and their customers. Aside from dress code and customer relations, two major elements, there are many other standards Publix employees are held to. A good example of one unwritten Publix rule would be: communication between associates when out on the sales floor during business hours must be respectful, and if at all possible must include the customer. Also, outside from positive communication both verbal and nonverbal with customers and fellow associates employees are expected to communicate both effectively and respectfully with management teams as well. Hierarchy The Publix store level hierarchy is something that runs seemingly parallel in each department throughout the store. Each department and sub department have their chain of command as follows: part time associates, full time associates, assistant department manager, and department manager. The two major departments, grocery and customer service, have the most associates, in order to better supervise their employees there is a position called a team leader that fits into the hierarchy between the full time associates and the management team. Publix is a company that only promotes from within. This is a big selling point for associates and applicants alike. Knowing that the opportunity for advancement is always there is a major asset for the associates in the store. Communications between the different levels of the chain of command are fluid. The associates can go to their department managers, or team leaders, with any concern or idea. The department managers at store level then communicate with the store’s assistant manager and store manager about the associate’s ideas and concerns. Communication Networks The information Publix gathers through their retail channels is usually information based on product analysis and placement that they can pass down to the management teams at store levels to assess further. Ultimately the store will take the advice of corporate and try to taper the information in the way it works most effectively for each store. Each store can take the same information and depict it differently. Information about new products, events, or openings may not influence all stores, or influence them all at the same level. There are times, during major events like hurricanes, holidays, or back to school time, where Publix store level employees must take the information sent to them by corporate including sales figures and forecasts in order to build the proper displays and floor models for customers to browse. Having product out that customers take interest in can help drive sales. The communication between the different levels of Publix Supermarkets goes hand in hand with communication networks at the store level. Leadership Approaches A major tool in the line of communication at Publix is how they allow anyone who is willing to step up and be a leader, do so. When every associate feels that sense of empowerment in their employment it urges them to lead in a different way, work harder and do a better job to lead by example. Publix pushes their associates to be role models both in the stores, and in the community. The management teams are in place to ensure guidelines are followed, but showing quality leadership through positive communication means so much more. Communicating with leaders is always a situation associates take very seriously in any industry or business. This is no different in the retail world at Publix. Associates voice their concerns and feelings to their leaders, whether it be management, team leaders, or even fellow associates who take on the responsibility of leading a specific group. At Publix supermarkets the communication had with leadership is always something associates should come away from feeling they were heard out and understood, good virtue for any organization to sustain. Conclusion Publix through the years has become one of the most widely respected organizations in America. This is due to the quality product and customer service put out the grocery chain, but also playing a role in the respect factor is the culture of the organization. This of course starts at store level and works its way to the corporate ranks, and is in large part to do with positive, effective communication. Publix supermarkets are known throughout the world a company that is great to work for, just as much as they are to shop at. Through utilizing all of the common communication characteristics Publix has continued to promote a very associate friendly atmosphere through the years. The supermarket chain takes pride in the fact that each associate understands their value to their company and takes pride in hiring quality applicants. Publix utilizes its rules and norms, hierarchy, communication networks, and strong leadership approach in all day to day activities in order to remain a successful industry leader.

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck Essay -- farm, tractors, land own

The bright colors and nice shirts all grab your attention at the store, but how did the cotton, grain, or wheat in the products come to be? In Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath, mechanization brings capitalism and other unintended consequences, leads to the decision for land owners of whether to run a business using greed or virtue, and separates the working class. Steinbeck starts The Grapes of Wrath by showing the Joad family who had just been removed from their farm. The Joads are one family of a monstrous number of families to be removed from their farms. They were raised on the land, some died on the land, and they were with approximately seven million families that lived on farms in the same day (â€Å"U.S. AGRICULTURAL POLICY,† 10). The banks told the Farmers’ Association to lower the overhead of all agricultural products by employing possibly one or two men to take the place of sixteen other men. The owner of the land had the choice to both get rich and be extremely wealthy by profiting off the loss and pain of others or to become one who is taken advantage of and becoming hungry and poor. One of the main unintended consequences of employing one man to drive the tractor was a loss of contact to the land. The land owners became completely separated from their land. The people who farmed in the same way as the Joads lived for the land, and they lived because of the land. This relationship between farmer and land was destroyed due to the introduction of the tractor to the land. Land owners no longer knew when they needed to give the land a break, and for this reason many pieces of land became totally dust and truly became unformidable to any type of farming. This overuse of the land led to what we know as the Dust B... ...reed which totally annihilated the working class’s bond of unity. If the working class had united maybe they would not have been so very miserable for such a long time. Maybe the Dustbowl would have never happened. Works Cited â€Å"Article III.† The Harvest Gypsies: On the Road to the Grapes of Wrath. Charles Wollenberg, ed. Berkeley: Heyday Books, 1988. â€Å"Article IV.† The Harvest Gypsies: On the Road to the Grapes of Wrath. Charles Wollenberg, ed. Berkeley: Heyday Books, 1988. Harvey, John, John Crowley, and Jack Hayes. U.S. Government. Department of Agriculture. Face of Rural America. 1975. Steinbeck, John. The Grapes of Wrath. 1939. Eds. Peter Lisca with Kevin Hearle. New York: Viking,1997. Rasmussen, Wayne D.. "The Challenge of Change." Trans. Array U.S. Agriculture in a Global Economy. 1985. "U.S. AGRICULTURAL POLICY." The Reference Shelf. 38. New York: 1966.