Friday, December 27, 2019

Augustus s Influence On Art And Architecture - 1930 Words

Introduction: In 27 BC Augustus began his political career with a â€Å"new policy which embodied a national and Roman spirit† (Galinksy, 1996, 225) and â€Å"represented new heights in creativity and sophistication† (Galinksy, 1996, 225). Augustus created a new political propaganda campaign that used art and architecture to promote and enhance his regime. The most fundamental message can be regarded as to establish the legitimacy of his rule and to portray him as the natural successor of Rome, as this is consistently presented throughout the visual programme. Yet factors such as the restoration of the Republic, reviving the old religion, nationalism and militaristic triumph can also be seen to be communicated prominently through art and architecture. Legitimacy of Augustan Rule: The art and architecture in the Augustan regime fundamentally reflected the new order and glorified the position and power of Augustus. Initially, at the beginning of his political career, Augustus wished to portray himself appropriately, therefore devised a new image as the first leader of the restored Republic. The academics Walker and Burnett comment that this plan included the melting down of eighty silver statues of Augustus, as the metal was â€Å"considered inappropriate for images of living persons and should be reserved for gods† (Walker and Burnett, 1981, 17); the silver was then offered to the Temple of Apollo. Nevertheless, Augustus’ intention to limit the use of his image can appear to beShow MoreRelatedClassical Roman Art Vs Early Christian There are many similarities and differences between800 Words   |  4 PagesClassical Roman Art Vs Early Christian There are many similarities and differences between Classical Roman and Early Christian Art. What particularly stands out to me is how much these two cultures have in common when it comes to their art and architecture. Romans were geniuses when it came to engineering and we can see that in the monuments they left behind. Many early Christian architectural styles and ideas were adopted straight from the Romans. Their communities became organized geographicallyRead MoreGreek Epics873 Words   |  4 Pages(Aeneid, 2012). The Aeneid was written in a period that there was a major political change in Rome which was after the fall of the Republic (Aeneid, 2012). Augustus Caesar, the adopted son of Julius Caesar become the new emperor and he established a new era by reintroduce the traditional Roman moral value. According to Steimnbrenner (2012) â€Å"Augustus wished to cement his claim to power in every possible way, and he did this in part by having Virgil bring the legend of Aeneid back to the hearts of RomansRead MoreRoman Empire : The Greatest Social And Political Center Of Western Civilization1478 Words   |  6 Pagesin The Ancient Romans, â€Å"Ancient Rome has always been famous for its great achievements in architecture and engineering.† Roman architecture eventually became its own distinct style. Although Greek culture and architecture influenced the Roman style, the Roman love for socializing, business, and games had a greater impact in shaping the way Romans designed buildings and cities. Even though Roman architecture was heavily influenced by Roman society and values, the style also pulled many ideas fromRead MoreAncient Egypt : Ancient Egyptian Art1308 Words   |  6 PagesArchitechture in ancient Egypt Egyptian art has journeyed through the centuries as one of the most influential phenomenon in human civilization. From the Greeks to the Romans to the people of today, Egyptians and their beautiful representations in art and architecture have proven a legacy in the creations of certain landmarks, statues, and even advertisements. The Greeks derived many of their statues from Egyptian sculptures, such as the Kouros 600 B.C. The Roman emperor Augustus in expressing his rule alsoRead MoreThe Achievements Of Ancient Egypt1291 Words   |  6 PagesTemples, tombs and pyramids have all witnessed this earth for thousands of years. These architectural achievements show us that Egypt s greatest virtue lie in its architecture. One Ancient Egypt’s greatest cultural achievements was undoubtedly in their architecture associated with religion. If you were to travel to Egypt what would you expect to see? Pyramid after temple after tomb, each standing the test of time. They all stand out, the y are all associated with religious beliefs, they all haveRead MoreThe Eternal City1418 Words   |  6 Pagesto make him a dictator. After earning his new tittle Caesar set in motion numerous changes, for example, open work projects and offering area to poor people, and etc. As the story is told those in the senate who killed Caesar on March 15. Caesar s Grandnephew, Octavian, and Marc Anthony united to catch his executioners. However Caesar didn’t die in vain â€Å"Let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that shall be told among men hereafter.† (HomerRead MoreRoman Art Of Ancient Rome1707 Words   |  7 PagesThe art of Rome is considered completed art of ancient society. Legitimately argue that, although Roman masters continued the tradition of Hellenic, yet the art of ancient Rome - an independent phenomenon, determined by the course and the course of historical events, and living conditions, and the originality of religious beliefs, character traits of the Romans, and other factors. Roman art as a special artistic phenomenon began to study only in the twentieth century is essentially realized onlyRead MoreAugustan Art and Propaganda Essay1964 Words   |  8 PagesAugustan Art and Propaganda Julius Caesars reign was an unfavorable and chaotic period for Rome, and after his death, a large portion of the empire was handed down to his adopted son, Gaius Octavian. From the ashes of his father, Octavian was able to build an Empire unparalleled. Later, the name Augustus was given to him by Senate. Augustus ostensibly maintained the form of the Roman Republic while in actuality creating the Roman Empire. He introduced the administrative reforms that led to theRead MoreThe Importance Of Ancient Egypt1223 Words   |  5 Pagesof Egypt remains and culture. Evidence of a fascination with Egypt can be found in Rome itself dating back to before Augustus’ victory at Actium in 31 B.C. The Roman fascination with Egypt will be best explored by focusing on art and architecture within Rome at the temple of Isis at Pompeii that is influenced by Egypt. To understand how Egyptian influence over art and architecture came to be it is necessary to discuss the fact that Romans traveled to Egypt regularly and for a number of reasons.Read MoreReview Of Benvenuto Cellini 1591 Words   |  7 Pageswas born is considered to be the beginning of the Cinquecento period of the arts in Italy. By the end of Cellini’s life he was successful in many aspects of cinquecento arts. This paper gives highlights on Cellini’s life as a whole including descriptive examples of his various art works.(Cellini 128) The cinquecento period in which Cellini was born references the 16th century as a period of Italian art, architecture, or literature, with a reversion to classical forms. This is significant because

Thursday, December 19, 2019

Militia Groups Band Together Essay - 2217 Words

Militia Groups Band Together The FBI has evidence that communication between Militia Groups has steadily increased and is currently at a record high. An inside resource reported that the Groups are forming a coalition to take over the United States. They plan to seize all communication networks so they can control any information given to the general public. They will take control over food distribution, power supply, and water supply. Everything will be rationed according to the Militias predetermined specifications. Nobody seems to know when, where, or how this is going to happen for all communications between the Militia groups are encrypted with a 60-bit key. Government Officials are trying to crack the code, but due to the†¦show more content†¦Encryption is a wonderful and powerful tool when trustworthy people use it in an appropriate manner. If the tool falls into the wrong hands, it becomes less wonderful and more powerful. So what are the wrong hands and what should be done about it? Many corpor ations from the technology industry and organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) say nothing should be done about it. Americans have the right to privacy and encryption can provide that. On the other sided of the controversy, the Clinton Administration wants to secure access to all encryption keys so any encrypted communication can be intercepted, which will ensure social welfare. Governmental involvement in the use of encryption is a controversial issue. Throughout history, Governmental Agencies have interfered with the development and implementation of surveillance technology; this behavior may foreshadow future involvement with encryption. The debate of the Governments involvement is ongoing with valid points on both sides. In order to fairly evaluate both arguments, one must first understand cryptography and its history of development. Cryptography An Attempt For Privacy According to the Newtons Telecom Dictionary, cryptography is, the process of concealing the contents of a message from all except those who know the key, (207). It is also defined as . . . the science, or art, of secret writing, (Huffman 2). The word cryptography originatedShow MoreRelatedBacons Rebellion1240 Words   |  5 PagesBacons Rebellion may have served as the first civil uprising within the early settlements of America. Led by Nathaniel Bacon, a militia of armed freedmen, slaves, and poor colonist banded together to fight against a government that they felt was corrupt and did not have their best interests in mind. This paper will examine some of the major causes that led to the rebellion such as the increased westward expansion by the colonists, the civil unrest growing between the social classes, rising taxesRead MoreCheyenne Indian Tribe Essay1677 Words   |  7 Pagesother. This made the other Cheyenne tribe members choose on which way to go. Later, this division established the Northern and Southern Cheyenne bands as separate people. The southern band stayed near the Platte River while the northern and lived near the Black Hills in South Dakota. Even though there were two groups, many times they still came together in a few major battles against the whites or other tribes(Hoig 58). Yes, there were tribe versus tribe conflicts but the Cheyenne actually hadRead MoreEssay on Shays Rebellion1481 Words   |  6 Pagesjudges debated how to respond, and this persuaded the judges to adjourn the Court of Common Pleas until November â€Å"without delay† (â€Å"Luke Day†). At this point the armed men began to call themselves â€Å"Regulators† and began wearing hemlock sprigs in the bands of their hats (â€Å"Daniel Shays†). Many were worried that in September when the Supreme Judicial Court met in Springfield, Massachusetts, would issue indictments against Luke Day and other men who participated in the Northampton closure. They broughtRead MoreHistory of Human Resource Management Essay1398 Words   |  6 Pagesemployer would try to provide assistance to employees to purchase a home, medical care, or assistance for education. The human relations movement is the major influence of the modern human resource management. The movement focused on how employees group behavior and how employee feelings. This movement was influenced by the Hawthorne Studies and the belief that employees worked better in a social system. By the late 1800s, people problems were a very real concern in the workplace. For the averageRead MoreEssay on The Extent of American Unity and Identity1339 Words   |  6 PagesThese events would eventually lead up to the Revolution when American colonies would band together and establish themselves independently among the European world. As tension rose between the colonists and the French, the first attempt for colonial union took place in Albany, New York. Seven colonies met to discuss their common problems such as the Indian attacks, their colonial militias, and the colonies boundaries. Benjamin Franklin proposed the Albany Plan that wouldRead MoreThe Paleo-Indian Tradition Essay2145 Words   |  9 PagesWoodland Indians to live and often thrive in Wisconsin? Be sure to include at least two key components. Woodland Indians inhabited the large geographical area in eastern North America. The varying climates and four seasons affected how each individual group of Indians lived and ate. The Appalachian mountains and Great Lakes prohibited movement of people to some extent. Some people were able to harness the shoreline water as a means of transportation. Gardening and harvesting of crops became a wayRead MoreJesse James : Outlaw Or Hero?3530 Words   |  15 Pagesbeen viewed for decades as an outlaw, lived during the Civil War. During the Civil War, many forms of combat existed. One of the most common forms for the South, otherwise known as the Confederate States of America, were groups of guerrilla bands. A guerrilla band is a group of armed civilians that use military tactics such as raids, sabotages, ambushes, hit-and-run, petty warfare, and mobility to fight a usually larger, less-mobile and traditional military unit. These guerillas had forever changedRead More Influence of Indian Warfare on the Development of the United States Army3039 Words   |  13 Pageshistory, when two or more armed groups oppose one another in battle, certain tactics are transferred from one to the other. These tactics are usually perceived by either group as superior to their own. This process of transferring tactics often occurs over a length of time, and usually encompass a number of conflicts between the groups. This is a natural phenomenon for armed forces that mimics the Darwinian Theory of Evolution; the strongest survive, the weak die. For a group to become the strongest inRead MoreCommon Causes of War and Genocide Essay example1271 Words   |  6 Pagesfull of contrast. As many as eighty ethnic groups call the nation home. While most of the population is rural, there are also ten cities with over thirty thousand people. The two largest cities are the capital Bangui, and Bimbo having 542,000 and 129,000 respectively. The Central Republic of Africa is composed of the d ensely populated hill countries of Rwanda and Burundi which have populations of very similar composition. In both there is a large majority group of Hutu who are predominantly ChristianRead MoreGun Control Pros and Cons in the United States2511 Words   |  11 Pagesstatistical analysis. Anti-gun control lobbyists’ arguments include the guarantee of the 2nd Amendment, the definition of â€Å"militia† as any adult male, self-defense, the relative uselessness of permits and regulations, and court cases in favor of firearm possession. Pro-gun control activists counter with the anachronism of the 2nd Amendment, the traditional definition of â€Å"militia† as a government-authorized army, the multitude of gun-related deaths, the need for stronger regulations, and the precedent

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

There should have been a NO vote on Proposition 21 Essay Example For Students

There should have been a NO vote on Proposition 21 Essay 5!Marijuana is NOT a medicine!There currently exists controversy concerning smoking marijuana as a medicine. Manyleaders and members of the public have been misled, by the well financed and organized pro-druglegalization lobby, into believing there is merit to their argument that smoking marijuana is a safeand effective medicine. A review of the scientific research, expert medical testimony andgovernment agency findings shows this to be false. There is no justification for using marijuana asmedicine. The California Narcotics Officers Association consists of over 7,000 criminal justiceprofessionals who are dedicated to protecting the public from the devastating effects of substanceabuse, whether cocaine, methamphetamine or marijuana. They have seen firsthand the hurting andoften tragic results, both psychologically and physically, for those who chose intoxication as partof their lifestyles. They have studied the medicinal use of marijuana issue, compiling informationfrom medical experts to present to those we are sworn to protect. It is their firm belief that anymovement that liberalizes or legalizes substance abuse laws would set us back to the days of the70s, when we experienced this countrys worst drug problem and the subsequent consequences. In the 80s, through the combined and concerted efforts of law enforcement and prevention andtreatment professionals, illegal drug use was reduced by 50 percent. Teenagers graduating fromthe class of 1992 had a 50 percent lesser chance of using drugs than did those who graduated inthe class of 1979. Substance abuse rises whenever public attitude is more tolerant towards drugs(i.e., they are safe and harmless.) Other factors that contribute to a rise in use include increasedavailability, reduced risk with using or selling and lower prices. In 1993, for the first time in 12years of steady decline, illegal drug use rose and continues to climb. A major contributing factor isa message that drugs arent so bad. To counter this just say yes campaign, all of us should feelcompelled to provide the facts on the use of marijuana as medicine. These documented facts willprove beyond a doubt that MARIJUANA IS NOT MEDICINE. FACT: The movement to legitimize marijuana as medicine is not encouraged by t hepharmaceutical companies, Federal Food and Drug Administration, health and medicalassociations of medical experts; but instead by groups such as the National Organization for theReform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) and the Drug Policy Foundation (DPF). Theseorganizations have little medical expertise and favor various forms of legalizing illegal drugs. FACT: The majority of the marijuana advocates evidence comes from unscientific,non-examined or analyzed illustrative statements from people with a variety of illnesses. It isunknown whether these individuals used marijuana prior to their illnesses or are using marijuanain combination with other medicines. It is also unknown if they had a recent thorough medicalexam or are justifying there use of marijuana, experiencing a remedy effect or experiencing theintoxicating effect of smoking marijuana. FACT: The psychoactive ingredient in marijuana (THC) is already available inpharmaceutical capsule form by prescription from medical doctors. Th is drug, Marinol, is lessoften prescribed because of the potential adverse effects and there are effective new medicinescurrently available. FACT: The manufacturers of Marinol, Roxane Laboratories inc., do not agree with thepro-marijuana advocates that THC is safe and harmless. In the Physicians Desk Reference, a goodportion of the description of Marinol includes warnings about the adverse effects. FACT: Common sense dictates that it is not good medical practice to allow a substance tobe used as medicine if that product is 1) not FDA approved, 2) ingested by smoking, 3) made upof hundreds of different chemicals, 4) not subject to product liability, 5) exempt from qualitycontrol standards, 6) not governed by daily dose criteria, 7) offered in unknown strengths (THC)from 1 to 10 percent, 8) self prescribed and self administered by the patient. FACT: Since the pro marijuana lobby has been unsuccessful in dealing with the federalgovernment before, they targeted state and local governments to legitimize smoking marijuana asa medicine. A careful examination of their legislative and/or ballot proposals reveals they arewritten to effectively neutralize enforcing most marijuana laws. Crude, intoxicating marijuana,under their proposals, would be easier to obtain and use than even the most harmless, low levelprescription drug. .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 , .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .postImageUrl , .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 , .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:hover , .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:visited , .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:active { border:0!important; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:active , .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57 .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u80b55254083891b84e10c31348ed5d57:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Diabetes Mellitus EssayFACT: Major medical and health organizations, as well as the vast majority of nationallyrecognized expert medical doctors, scientists and researchers, have concluded that smokingmarijuana is not safe and effective medicine. These organizations include: the American MedicalAssociation, the American Cancer Society, National Sclerosis Association, the AmericanGlaucoma Association, American Academy of Ophthalmology, National Institute for NeurologicalDisorders and Stroke, National Institute of Dental Research and the National Institute on Allergyand Infectious Diseases. FACT: There are over 10,000 studies available documenting the harmful physical effect sand psychological effects of smoking marijuana. The harmful consequences include, but are notlimited to, premature cancer; addiction; coordination and perception impairment; and a number ofmental disorders, including depression, hostility, increased aggressiveness, general apathy,memory loss, reproductive disabilities, impairment to the immune system, numerous airwayinjuries and other general problems associated with intoxication. FACT: The medicinal marijuana movement and its media campaign have helped contributeto the changing attitude among our youth that marijuana is harmless, contributing to the increaseof marijuana use among our young people after twelve years of steady decline. What we dontneed in this society is more intoxicated people on our highways, in workplaces, in schools, incollege or in our homes.

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

The element of night in Joyce’s The Sisters and Clay Essay Sample free essay sample

In Joyce’sThe SistersandClay. visible radiation and dark imagination combine and clang in the dominant component of dark. Apart from working as a scene. dark besides serves as a symbol for the characters’ dark and light individualities ( their defects and virtuousnesss ) and worlds. Night is a paradox. It hides and at the same clip exposes the characters’ true and imperfect selves—for illustration. the spiritually paralytic Father Flynn inSistersand the cut off brotherhood of Joe and Alphy inClay. In the former. dark is closely intertwined with the priest’s â€Å"beautiful death† ( 5 ) what his sisters sees as his â€Å"eternal reward† ( 6 ) . On the one manus. dark and dark signify the emptiness of his religion. like an â€Å"idle goblet on his breast† ( 7 ) . The storyteller muses: â€Å"If he was dead†¦ I would see the contemplation of taper on the darkened blind†¦Ã¢â‚¬  ( 1 ) . Alternatively of stand foring light the candle becomes more a metaphor of decease and moral uncertainness. We will write a custom essay sample on The element of night in Joyce’s The Sisters and Clay Essay Sample or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Light and dark are besides at drama inThe Sistersrepeating image of the â€Å"dark room† ( 2. 7 ) . To both the male child and the priest. it signifies a sort of rousing. This waking up is non a rose-colored one though. In both instances. religious freedom has a monetary value. Flynn has to allow travel of the moral centre offered by his religion. Meanwhile. the male child has to predate his artlessness and see the â€Å"pleasant and barbarous region† the visible radiation and dark stages of life. InClay.dark ab initio connotes felicity for Maria: â€Å"She hoped they would hold a nice evening† ( 66 ) . However. the Hallow Eve she good prepared for proves below ideal. A â€Å"veritable peacemaker† ( 64 ) . Maria nevertheless fails to stop the bad blood between her former charges. â€Å"But Joe cried that God might strike him stone dead if of all time he spoke to his brother once more and Maria said she was regretful she had mentioned the matter† ( 67 ) . Again. the visible radiation of merriment and rapprochement is defeated by the dark of choler. The fire which should hold symbolized a â€Å"very nice Joe† ( 67 ) is figuratively doused by a cross and unforgiving one. Plants Cited Joyce. James. â€Å"Clay. †Dubliners. Ed. Shane Weller. New York: Dover Publication. 1991. 64-69. —— . â€Å"The Sisters. † Weller 1-7.

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Riddles of the Anasazi Essay Example

Riddles of the Anasazi Essay What is the truth of the Nazis people? Were they really cannibals? Did they only kill outcasts, or anyone of their pick? Why did they live in fortified homes? The following paragraphs, hopefully impart information on the above questions. The Nazis lived in fortified homes for environmental and social reasons/theories. One environmental reason was a long drought that lasted for 23 years. However, the Nazis suffered much worse with fifty years of drought before they went Into hiding. A social theory about why they moved Into fortified homes was nomadic raiders, men/ women that drove the Nazis out of their homes and Into hiding. A terrible social reasoning would be cannibalism, when times got tough In their villages, they would make examples of the town outcasts and become cannibals. Cannibalism, were the Nazis? Or, were they peaceful people afraid of things other than the people around them? The Elders of the Nazis Tribes today, tell a story of mass murder of each village going against each other. They executed the adult males, and captured and, tortured women and small children. Kook Man Corn also suggests the possibilities of cannibalism; in his book he has documents of 76 differing cases of primitive cannibalism in the southwest. Turner researched this information for thirty years. He has a six criteria system if they reach all six points; he believes that person was killed by a cannibal. We will write a custom essay sample on Riddles of the Anasazi specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Riddles of the Anasazi specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Riddles of the Anasazi specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The six points are, breaking of long bones to get marrow, cut marks on bones from knives, burning of bones, and a luster on the bones from cooking in a clay pot. Biochemists in Colorado tested the bones of several Nazis people and found Human coprolite of mycologist. Its existence there means the Nazis consumed human flesh. A case against cannibalism would be to lust say people who were pronounced as witches and other social outcasts were killed in the way Turner described. I believe there was cannibalism back in Nazis times. I also believe people do not want to shed truth on what happened, in fear of what will come in our nation and in our time. Archaeologists say the push, that lead to the Nazis fleeing was environmental catastrophes that lead to savagery, and hostilities. Some experts though say there was a pull, something leading them to the south and the east. Some believe it was the Chalk Cult. The Chalk Cult is a belief that gods to ensure rain and fertilely? Proof of the China cult appears to be found on different artifacts, their story Is related In paintings and drawings. These artifacts are found near the Roll Grandee. The Nazis people were complex Individuals that we still figure out what happened to them. They have left behind some evidence as cliff dwellers, The left behind works of art, bones with markings, pottery, homes that look Like they have been left 300 years ago Instead of ages, and Pueblo people follow In some of their name dances and rituals today. Besides the facts that lay before us, we can only hypothesize the real truth as to the Nazis lifestyle and life choices. Riddles of the Nazis By bigness Nazis lived in fortified homes for environmental and social reasons/theories. One Nazis suffered much worse with fifty years of drought before they went into hiding. A social theory about why they moved into fortified homes was nomadic raiders, men/ women that drove the Nazis out of their homes and into hiding. A terrible social reasoning would be cannibalism, when times got tough in their villages, they would just say people who were pronounced as witches and other social outcasts were leading them to the south and the east. Some believe it was the China Cult. The China Cult is a belief that gods to ensure rain and fertility? is related in paintings and drawings. These artifacts are found near the ROI Grandee. The Nazis people were complex individuals that we still figure out what happened to them. They have left behind some evidence as cliff dwellers. The left behind works of art, bones with markings, pottery, homes that look like they have been left 300 years ago instead of ages, and Pueblo people follow in some of their

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Walgreens Strategic Analysis Essay Example

Walgreens Strategic Analysis Essay Example Walgreens Strategic Analysis Paper Walgreens Strategic Analysis Paper Veronica Washington 0180175 Walgreens Pharmacy (WAG) An Industry Leader at the Inflection Point The following report is an in-depth discussion of Walgreens Pharmacy with an analysis and assessment of the company’s strategic initiatives. Each strategy yields a direct purpose of diminishing the influence of a specific force from Porter’s 5-force Model as the supporting data culminates an outlook on the company’s future. COMPANY OVERVIEW Charles Walgreen of Chicago, Illinois, pioneered the first Walgreens in 1901, with corporate headquarters now located in Deerfield, Illinois. In the company’s 100-year reign as the prescription industry leader, Walgreens changed from war bonds, soda fountains, and restaurants to 24-hour store access, nationwide locations, easy-to-use online stores, and health care clinics. 6,400 stores now operate in all 50 states including Puerto Rico, with 30% open 24 hours. By 2010, Walgreen’s aspires to operate 7,000 stores nationwide and pave the way for the organic growth of 13,000 sites. As of December 2007, Walgreens employs 226,000 associates, hiring 25,000 in 2007 (WAG Annual Reports, 2007). According to the company’s 2007 annual reports, â€Å"Walgreens has been listed on: Fortune magazine’s Most Admired Companies in America list†¦ranked 44th on the Fortune 500 list of largest U. S-based companies†¦[and] ranked the leading online drugstore. † (WAG Annual Reports, 2007) In the past 2 years especially, Walgreens embarked on several ventures that will enable them to have first-mover advantage in the healthcare industry. CURRENT FINANCIAL INFORMATION In 2007, Walgreens increased net sales by 13. 4% to $53. 7 billion and increased net income by 16. 6% to $2. 4 billion. Long-term investments, which have consistently increased by roughly $100 million dollars each year since 2004, reflect company profits (WAG Annual Reports, 2007). In the 2007 operating cash flow analysis, Walgreens yielded a yearly total over $23 million in deferred taxes that arose for tax relief in advance of tangible asset depreciated accounting expenses. While net cash flows in the operating sector dropped by $80 million in a single year production, sales, and delivery continue to expand. In the 2007 investment cash flow analysis, the company directed $6. billion toward short-term investments (auction rate securities) available for sale amounting to an accumulated $6. 8 billion (WAG Annual Reports, 2007). With a staggering $1. 8 billion spent on new additions in 2007, this perceived overextension by shareholders of the company’s business and intangible asset acquisition of $1. 1 billion doubles the amount of cash used in the invested activities of 2006 (WAG Annual Reports, 2007). Employee termination and salary cuts yielded a 50% drop in proceeds received from company life-insurance policies. The $5. million proceeds of 2007 pale in comparison to the $10. 7 million received only a year before. Walgreens spent $2. 4 billion in investing activities during 2007, more than that of 2005 and 2006 combined (WAG Annual Reports, 2007). In the 2007 financi al cash flow analysis, net proceeds were $850 million. With a $141 million debt payment, $1 billion in stock repurchases, $310 million cash dividends to shareholders, and a $214 million bank overdraft sum, Walgreen’s 2007 net cash used for financing activities rose to $626 million from 2006’s $413 million (WAG Annual Report, 2007). In summation, the initial cash and cash equivalents of 2007 declined from $920 million in January to $255 million by the end of December resulting from the company’s overextension, and may result of losing their position as the industry leader in the near future (WAG Annual Reports, 2007) POWER OF BUYERS According to Porter, a buyer who has power â€Å"can always find an equivalent product, [then] play vendor against [one] another† (Porter, 2008). Consumers reap the benefits of an industry that pays for repeat business. In 2007, Walgreen’s pharmacists took 157,000 prescription transfer calls from neighboring competitors. (WAG Annual Reports, 2007) Mark Wagner, VP of Operations, announced that after reviewing the 2007 compiled transfer logs of the company, â€Å"72% of all prescription transfers [in 2007] are competitor coupon-related issues † (WAG Annual Report, 2007) Walgreens remained static in their decision to offer any type of compensation to new customers or transferred prescriptions until October 2008. Walgreens customers receive an average of four prescriptions on monthly basis from the pharmacy (WAG Annual Reports, 2007). With 65% of the sales revenue of the company coming from the pharmacy, Walgreens declines to bargain with out-of-pocket customers over price. Regardless of a climbing prescription drug-price trend, demand remains elastic because customers demand choices of similar, less expensive medications if authorized by their doctor. The amount of reimbursement Walgreens receives from Medicare, Medicaid, and Worker’s Compensation falls drastically, as incremental revenues from those sources decreases (Stewart, 2006). According to Lueck, â€Å"Medicare and Medicaid comprise 25 percent of the federal budget, and the government cannot afford to spend at the current rate† (Lueck, 2008). In order to maintain relationships with customers, retail pharmacies resorted to buying sections of Medicare Part D insurance companies: AARP Walgreens vs. CVS Caremark (Caremark Rx Inc. , 2007). RIVALRY AMONG EXISTING COMPETITORS From Porter’s point of view, â€Å"the degree to which rivalry drives down an industry’s profit potential depends, first on the intensity with which companies compete and, second, on the basis on which they compete† (Porter, 2008). Other than retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies, internet pharmacies, international pharmacies, vitamin stores, and homeopathic treatment providers attempt to maintain market share in the healthcare industry (Lueck, 2008). Walgreens largest competitor, CVS Pharmacy, fell short of Walgreen’s sales revenues by $7 billion in 2007 (WAG Annual Report, 2007). Contrary to Porter’s model of rivalry, the healthcare industry is experiencing massive growth. Growth is not a force, but only a factor; and as Porter mentions, â€Å"high growth rate will not guarantee profitability if customers are powerful†¦Ã¢â‚¬  as stated in the last section (Porter, 2008). Tom Charland, CEO of Merchant Medicine, in his prophetic wisdom forecasted an â€Å"increased scarcity of physicians and midlevel practitioners in many markets and the increased use of pharmacists. † (Berman, 2007) This justifies the idea that most baby-boomers will spend several hours a week in doctor’s offices receiving treatment for maladies that require prescriptions. Because of meager prescription profits, customers gain little when switching from one pharmacy to another. As Jeff Rein, VP of Walgreens, understands, â€Å"95% percent of our patients pay only the co-pay required by their insurance plans. † (WAG Annual Report, 2007) This removes Wal-Mart’s $4 prescription plan from the picture. POWER OF SUPPLIERS In Porter’s words, suppliers with power â€Å"can squeeze profitability out of an industry that is unable to pass on cost increases in its own prices. (Porter, 2008) To make up for excessive inventory costs for new medication Walgreen’s must decrease labor hours and work more efficiently. For corporate executives in retail pharmacies like Mark Wagner of Walgreens, â€Å"the end solution is to cut costs†¦and the biggest cost in stores is payroll. † (Merrick, 2008) With manufacturers keeping new FDA-approved substitute (generic) medications at bay by creating expensive time-released versions of the ori ginal, retailers spend more money than ever before on shelf space (Merrick, 2008). The following demonstrates a sample of what Porter means by suppliers having power when they â€Å"offer products that are differentiated† (Porter, 2008). In March 2008, analysts at Citigroup Inc. announced, â€Å"AstraZeneca will have more time to market the product†¦Seroquel XR, a once-daily version of the [original] drug†¦ slowly [converting] patients to the patent-protected drug before a generic version of Seroquel becomes available† (Merrick, 2008). Generic companies defending their rights to enter the market state brand name manufacturers received patents through inequitable conduct (Merrick, 2008). While CEO of Astra Zeneca, David Brennan remains â€Å"pleased with the courts decision to uphold [our] valid intellectual property, healthcare companies like Walgreens suffer exorbitant inventory costs at lower vendor allowances for keeping both brand and newly arriving formulations (Merrick, 2008). STRATEGIC ANALYSIS The significance of this report’s title, â€Å"An Industry Leader at the Inflection Point†, speculates that Walgreens cannot remain myopically moving forward now that competitors are strategically placing modes of â€Å"creative destruction† in the healthcare industry. For example, Walgreens is following suit to retake power from buyers, a force seen in previous paragraphs, with a revolutionary prescription problem-processing center, POWER. These 24-hour call centers will automatically fix any third-party insurance rejection errors at all 6400 store locations, leaving pharmacists and pharmacy technicians more time to devote to prescription accuracy, efficiency, and patient consultation. Alan McNally, Walgreen’s new CEO as of October 22, 2008, justifies the use of POWER so â€Å"the company’s founding base of competitive advantage will bring vital market share, stockholder optimism, and customer sentiments of timeliness and prescription safety back to Walgreens† (WAG Annual Reports, 2008). Despite Walgreens’ ability to gain back market share by utilizing POWER, this evolution of problem-solving workflow is the company’s first major step in â€Å"creative destruction. Since an estimated â€Å"25-30% of work in the pharmacy originates from processing and troubleshooting third-party claims†, Walgreens shows no sign of maintaining current hourly needs for technicians when POWER operations begin (Merrick, 2008). The excess reserves saved from this venture will allocate finances for greater stockholder dividends and ensure the company’s progressive movement into staying one-step ahead of the competition (Merrick, 2008). Acc ording to the 2008 annual reports released in November, the salary expenditures saved from cutting technician hours will help support funding for the accumulated $1. billion dollar long-term debt in 2008 (WAG Annual Reports, 2008). Formerly discussed in the section, â€Å"Power of Suppiers†, Walgreens showed vulnerability to brand-name manufacturer’s new formulations marketed to physicians as more effective and safer than their FDA-approved generics. The county’s nation-wide recession that tumbled into a worldwide pandemic has been reason enough for many consumers to forgo reinstating their prescription insurance plans in 2009 and instead shop around for bargain generics (Lueck, 2008). Porter describes the country’s turmoil perfectly by announcing America is in the â€Å"Age of Anxiety,† as he reminds readers that in the US â€Å"restructuring destroys about 30 million jobs per year† (Porter, 2008), To combat consumer demand for lower cost prescriptions, Walgreens has aggressively marketed the Walgreens Drug Program in 2008. This discount program offers consumers the option of choosing from a list of 400 price-approved and quantity-approved generic medications at a 90-day supply for $12 (WAG Annual Reports, 2008). To attract customers to less expensive and more readily available generic medications, Walgreens built the discount rogram to show how much each customer can save while receiving a therapy that is exactly or similar to what their doctor prescribed. The only cost associated with this plan is a one-time $20 fee for using the service pennies compared to the hundreds of dollars each month otherwise spent on prescription healthcare covera ge. The idea of Walgreens creating healthcare clinics where customers can go and receive treatment for common symptoms arose from competitor initiatives to capture a segment of the market not dominated by Walgreens. The purpose of this tactical approach was to lessen the force of rivalry in the industry. As of November 2008, Walgreens â€Å"operate[s] more than 600 health and wellness clinics in our stores and on employer worksites [with] plans to expand to 800 sites by the end of fiscal 2009 (WAG Annual Reports, 2008). While data on this new mode of investment has not been conclusive or forecasted in expected yearly revenue, Walgreens intends on honing company expansion in this market to counter aggressively competitor initiatives. STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT The watershed of massive change for Walgreens culminated amidst what economists are calling a worldwide recession. Like all prosperous profit seeking companies, Walgreens managed to find ways to cut hours while increase efficiency that paved the way for higher shareholder dividends in 2008. CEO Alan McNally describes Walgreens’ strategy as â€Å"a successful triumph in a frantic market† leading on with a direct correlation of the yearly highlights to â€Å"an increase of $. 11 in common share dividends for 2008† (WAG Annual Reports, 2008). Despite the company’s massive growth of long-term debt, the strategic positioning of POWER centers in high volume areas and payroll cuts began the combat against the emerging inflection point issues discussed. More than 1 million people enrolled in Walgreens discount card program in 2008. The company anticipates numbers to increase significantly at the beginning of Medicare reinstatement in January 2009 as members become more proactive in finding lower prescription costs. Constructed on gaining the business of customers upset with their current prescription coverage, the iscount care program cultivated an increase of gross market share to 17. 6% of the retail prescription market in 2008. According to the new annual reports, in August 2008 Walgreens priced a $1. 3 billion five-year bond offering to be â€Å"used in the repayment of short-term debt under its commercial paper program and general corporate purposes† (WAG Annual Reports, 2008). The bond’s primary purp ose of financing the expansion of Walgreens’ Take Care Clinics around the country will reinforce goals of insatiable growth in the United States. As the beginning stages of these clinics develop, Walgreens will have a better idea of the market’s reaction. SUMMARY OF STRATEGY These market-enhancing strategies formulated by observing frustrated consumers over the years yield a successful and progressive outlook for Walgreens. While Walgreens’ presence in communities nationwide will continue to expand, the systems and processes which customers receive service will undoubtedly change. As services become increasingly automated and salaries are cut to supply overhead costs of the latest technologies and capital investments, Walgreens’ initiatives to solidify their position as the market leader will continue to be a tantalizing puzzle for the company’s corporate executives. REFERENCES Berman, D. (2007,  January  17). CVS Raises Caremark Bid, Pressuring Express Scripts. Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p. A. 4. Retrieved November 9, 2008, from Wall Street Journal  database. (Document ID:  1195592291). Caremark Rx Inc. : Advisory Firm Urges Holders To Accept Offer From CVS. (2007,  March  14). Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p. A. 12. Retrieved October 25, 2008, from Wall Street Journal  database. (Document ID:  1232229641). Lueck, S. (2007,  September  19). Politics Economics: Democrats to Revisit Medicare Provisions. Wall Street Journal (Eastern Edition), p. A. 12. Retrieved October 23, 2008, from Wall Street Journal  database. (Document ID:  1337919191). Merrick, A. (2008,  March  19). How Walgreen Changed Its Prescription for Growth. Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p. B. 1. Retrieved October 20, 2008, from Wall Street Journal  database. (Document ID:  1448083011). Merrick, A. (2008,  October  9). Walgreen Abandons Bid for Longs; Drug Chain Cites Weak Economy, Withdraws $2. 7 Billion Offer. Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p. B. 1. Retrieved November 9, 2008, from Wall Street Journal  database. (Document ID:  1570234871). Stewart, J. (2006,  November  8). Common Sense: Letdown Over Deal By CVS, Caremark Offers Opportunity. Wall Street Journal   (Eastern Edition),   p. D. 2. Retrieved November 9, 2008, from Wall Street Journal  database. (Document ID:  1158307411). Porter, Michael E. (2008. Jan) â€Å"The Five Competitive Forces that Shape Strategy. † Harvard Business Review. Porter, Michael E. (2008. Nov) â€Å"Why America Needs an Economic Strategy† Business Week Walgreens Annual Reports, The (2007, Dec 31). Questions and Answers for Shareholders. Retrieved October 10, from Walgreens Co. Website: http://files. shareholder. com/downloads/WAG/460812286x0x147120/C3FF93FD-4E51-4F5A-94FD-C0D058A9A911/Walgreen_AR_07. pdf Walgreens Annual Reports, The (2007, Dec 31). Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial Condition. Retrieved October 10, from Walgreens Co. Website: http://files. shareholder. com/downloads/WAG/460812286x0x147120/C3FF93FD-4E51-4F5A-94FD-C0D058A9A911/Walgreen_AR_07. pdf

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Diversity and demographic characteristics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Diversity and demographic characteristics - Essay Example This paper discusses different demographic and diversity factors that impact individual behavior. A demographic variable that has a great impact on individual behavior is socioeconomic status. Socioeconomic status is a measure of an individual or family’s relative economic and social ranking (Nces). Two primary factors that determine socioeconomic status are income and educational level. Higher income positively impacts the well being of people and affects their personal behavior. People in higher income brackets have the opportunity to enjoy activities such as going to fine restaurant, playing golf, vacation to other countries, among other expensive habits on a regular basis. A separation exists between the rich and the poor in a society. The educational attainment of a person opens up opportunities for people. The higher educational level a person achiever the greater the chances of obtaining a high paying job. A person with a high school diploma in the United States earns an average annual salary of $23,400, a figure which is $28,800 lower than college graduates. (Earn mydegree, 2008). Geographical differences cause behavioral discrepancies among the people of region. Two types of geographical differences are rural vs. urban and inner city vs. suburban. Rural life tends to be more passive which allows families to raise their children in a controlled environment. The lifestyle includes working farming agricultural and dairy activities. People typically have large homes with vast amount of land. In the city life is totally different. People are in a constant rush and spend a couple of hours a daily commuting to get from one place to the other. The urban area has higher levels of industrial activity and pollution. In China the population from the rural areas migrates to the urban region in search for employment opportunities that come from manufacturing operations. The second comparison is inner city vs.