Tuesday, August 25, 2020

How to Write a Definition Essay on Material Culture

Step by step instructions to Write a Definition Essay on Material Culture Your educator has requested that you compose a definition paper on material culture and you think you are prepared to compose in light of the fact that you are furnished with the 10 realities on material culture for a definition article and 20 definition exposition points on material culture. In spite of the fact that you do have a great deal of data through our aides, note that composing a definition paper can once in a while be specialized. In opposition to composing a typical, regular exposition, a definition paper expects you to comprehend the term impeccably so you can disclose it to other people. Since we realize that you are lacking in time and need moment answers, we have formed a short guide which will assist you with composing a definition article on material culture. So immediately, here are a few things you have to keep note of when composing the article on material culture. Comprehend What a Definition Essay Is The element which sets a definition paper separated from different expositions is that as opposed to discussing an expansive subject, you will clarify the importance of a term. The definition exposition you are getting ready for will clarify what a term means and how it tends to be utilized in various examples. For instance, while words like glass, cement or book have a set importance, terms like trustworthiness, falsehood, and love are conceptual in nature. These words don’t have one right importance and their translation relies upon the person’s standpoint. These are additionally the words which will have distinctive significance at various occasions and it is your duty to talk about their immeasurability during the definition exposition. Pick a Definition You Understand At the point when you are composing a definition article on material culture, it is basic that you comprehend what the term implies. Before you can even start to disclose it to other people, you have to ensure that you know it yourself totally. Comprehension or characterizing the term doesn’t essentially mean replicating from the word reference on the grounds that except if you see consummately, you won’t have the option to convey the message forward. Also, when you are expounding on a term which has more than one significance, it is ideal to adhere as far as possible the term so everything can be secured. So on the off chance that you are discussing material culture, adhere to its highlights however don’t go into humanities since that is an alternate territory. Make a Thesis Statement At the point when you are composing a definition paper, it is significant that you compose a postulation articulation which discusses the term which is being characterized quickly. This will enable the peruser to comprehend what your principle objective is and on the off chance that he truly can discover data on material culture in your exposition. Composing a Definition Essay At the point when you are composing a definition article, your fundamental goal ought to be to introduce data in an unmistakable and justifiable way so nothing can be befuddled. Here is an example which you can follow to compose a viable paper. Start composing your paper on material culture by making the term’s definition by its capacity, structure or investigation. Next, enlighten the perusers regarding what the term doesn’t mean. This distinction can here and there help explain the definition and will help the peruser in comprehension. The best definition expositions are those which use realities, models and genuine stories to clarify. Models and stories help the peruser associate with the characters and this thusly will help them in comprehension the term’s meaning. When composing a definition paper on material culture, it is significant that you write in a reasonable and compact way. For whatever length of time that you are completely mindful of the term and its importance yourself, you will likewise have the option to disclose it to other people.

Saturday, August 22, 2020

How Effective Are Various Methods in Reducing Recidivism Essay

Jail, non-custodial sentences and recovery appear to be completely bombed in lessening recidivism; nonetheless, there is close to nothing and constrained proof to help non-custodial sentences, just as certain individuals might suspect if restoration could be executed viably, it would work. In spite of the fact that the upside of jail is keeping our general public from perilous individuals, with regards to diminishing recidivism rate, the impact of jail is baffling. People in general ordinarily believe that detainment is more secure for networks; in any case, it seems frail to discourage detainees from perpetrating wrongdoing once more. In the article, â€Å"Study shows building detainment facilities didn't forestall rehash crimes†, Fox Butterfield (2002) refers to a huge scope investigation of recidivism from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, which explored up to 272,111 previous detainees in 15 states during the initial three years in the wake of being discharged. It found that 67% of detainees violated the law again in three years directly after their discharge in 1994. It is astonished that it doesn't have any effect to recidivism rate which was concentrated in 1960’s, and it is even 5% higher than the examination done in 1983. Moreover, it showed that the more rearrest records a criminal has, the higher recidivism rate he has. The detainees who have more than 15 earlier captures have 82. 1% of recidivism rate. By the by, as indicated by Emily Kingham’s article (2006), she accepts that jail powers guilty parties to lament and ponder their conduct; with respect to the explanation that lawbreakers can't dismiss the allurement of carrying out new wrongdoing is a result of deficient offered help. Regardless of this, a few specialists have conceded that jail doesn't work as far as decreasing recidivism rate (Considering the choices 1978; Finckenauer 1988). Some constrained proof has demonstrated that non-custodial sentences may diminish recidivism; paying little heed to certain specialists being distrustful about their ideal accomplishments. From one perspective, elective sentences can assist government with setting aside cash and mitigate over-squeezed number of lawbreakers in jail (Considering the options 1978). Then again, Kingham(2006) brings up that elective sentences sit idle however return detainees to their unique conditions, which bring about ignorance of their wrongdoings and the onsequences. One investigation showed that through one of elective sentences, escalated probation, recidivism rate is under 20%; in any case, the proof perhaps frail as the examination has not been totally tried (Considering the choices 1978). Moreover, in the Minnesota, elective sentences have been effectively received to keep criminal rate not expanding, however it may not be persuaded in light of the source not being affirmed (Considering the choi ces 1978). While a few people contend restoration is additionally bombed in lessening recidivism rate, a few creators counter that if government could bolster recovery, recidivism rate would diminish. As per the article, â€Å"Prison†, James O. Finckenauer (1988) refers to certain investigations, which shows that despite the fact that the legislature has just given great restoration programs, they can't accomplish reformatory of prisoners. Then again, this position is challenged by Joan Petersilis (refered to in Butterfield 2002), an educator of criminology at the University of California at Irvine and a specialist on parole, who says that state governments spent such minimal expenditure on recovery programs that detainees don't get adequate assistance with tranquilize expansion, work ability and groundwork for another life, which may lead expanding recidivism rate. Butterfield (2002) further refers to the announcement by Mr. Travis, who additionally contends that crooks come back to wrongdoing.

Friday, August 7, 2020

When Authors Read Their Own Audiobooks (Nonfiction Edition)

When Authors Read Their Own Audiobooks (Nonfiction Edition) Several months ago I wrote about finally trying out audiobooks. I had a pretty narrow viewpoint and had very specific qualifications for the books I would be willing to listen to. I have since expanded those specifications to a point, but I still prefer books narrated by one person. There’s a genre in which this is pretty prominent, and there are some great books to choose from: memoir. If a new memoir isn’t read by the author, it’s actually kind of disconcerting. It’s understandable that they might not to want to spend the equivalent of a workweek talking into a microphonebut still. The switch from Salman Rushdie’s voice to a different reader after the prologue of Joseph Anton was off-putting; knowing Bad Feminist wasn’t being read by Roxane Gay made a little wall for me, taking away from the intimacy such a narrative usually brings to heart. BUT. There are some great memoirs and personal essay collections that have been read by the authors themselves. For one, when they’re written by funny people, they’re the best people to bring forth their humor. While several years old, Bossypants will probably withstand the test of time. Same goes for Yes, Please, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? and Bedwetter (which I haven’t actually listened to but I imagine is pretty goodfunny, even, if you’re a fan of Sarah Silverman’s humor. Which I’m not). Neil Patrick Harris’s autobiography couldn’t be half as funny read by someone else, and if Billy Crystal isn’t telling his stories, why would we listen? Two words: John. Waters. It’s not just the funny people who put their best feet forward. Sidney Poitier will hold you captive for hours at a time while taking you with him on his journey. Wes Moore, first on his journey through The Other Wes Moore and later during his trek through early adulthood, tells the story in a heartfelt way that feels far more real that it might from a professional. And Christopher Plummer, letch that he is, will tell you about nearly 80 years of adventure and escapades like you were hanging out over a beer. Sometimes, though, the author has a marvelously soothing voice. Not particularly good for a slow day at work or sitting in traffic. No more Bill Bryson for me. There are other highlights in nonfiction that have been read by the author. Reza Aslan was determined to read the audiobook for Zealot and Jill Lepore felt the same need for The Secret History of Wonder Woman. Neither is a professional, but the passion for their work comes through in every word spoken. Nothing bores me more than a listless audiobook. This doesn’t mean, of course, that every author who reads their own book does it perfectly. But there’s something about reading your own wordsfor any of usthat just feels right. ____________________ Book Riot Live is coming! Join us for a two-day event full of books, authors, and an all around good time.

Saturday, May 23, 2020

Comparing Barn Burning And Barn Burning By William...

In results of desires and unexpected outcomes, innocence and guilt lie based upon the persons thoughts and actions into their own future. In Barn Burning by William Faulkner and Greasy Lake by T.C Boyle, the narrators appear to be considerate on the changes the characters experience while being exposed to violence themselves or being affected by their own or someones actions. The character who was violent played a major role in the story affects the other characters surrounding them. Even though revenge was achieved to deviate them from initial thoughts on the situation they were in, it was not sufficient enough for them to avoid other harm happening to go about their way. In similarity, both are persistent and hopeful at some point in†¦show more content†¦Sarty does not want his father to be accused and portrays his fathers enemies as personal threats. Though he is determined to lie for the crimes his father and is hopeful he will soon be satisfied with the burns he has bur ned. The narration gives a brief clue wherein fire was a part of his Abners persona and would be inevitable to avoid them being separated or cease burning barns that are presented in the following, that the element of fire spoke to some deep mainspring of his fathers being(1269). Therefore, Sarty is unaware Abner finds satisfaction when he uses fire. The reason why the barn was important is it was utilized for survival and Abner does not like the idea of the owners being financially successful. The first person narration in Greasy Lake emphasizes the creation of tension and suspense as he witnesses the conflict unfold. The sudden realization that they had a mistake in misidentifying a single person and had gotten into a serious situation with the encountering of the greasy characters Referencing to the story, I was terrified. Blood was beating in my ears, my hands were shaking, my heart turning over like a dirtbike in the wrong gear(105). Further on, attempting to rape a woman while they were drunk and scared which they stopped doing at the sight of another car passing. According to the story, I kept going, pursued by those cries, imagining cops

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

2074 Final Notes Essay - 6510 Words

Amartya Sen-Does Business Ethics Make Sense? Adam Smith: we are motivated by self interest, and through the invisible hand comes free market competition. This naturally to social utility. / Butcher-brewer-baker quote demonstrates that the exchange of goods if for the benefit of both parties, without no ethics involved in the exchange. / Though competition, comes social harmony and utility. The market is a self correcting mechanism because it forces us to be truthful and honest, we should not scam people because this is not beneficial to us in the future. Sen-Trust: Smith’s point is not entirely true. / Trust is what ultimately makes exchange works, if we do not trust others, nothing would ever het done. We may be self interested, but we†¦show more content†¦/ Importance of ethics is also reflected in the performance of producing in different economies, such as Japan, code of honer and rule based behaviour has led to the creation of a efficient economy. / In summary, there are two ways in which good business behaviour can make economic sense:1.Improvement in society as a reward in itself. 2.Good behaviour can result in better performance, leading to more profit. Heather Salazar-Kantian Business Ethics Kant: It’s not only what you do that matters, but your motivation behind it as well. / Duty to do something depends not on the other’s rights, but on the rational assessment of what is the right thing to do based on the various types of relationships that you have with that person. / The only thing that is intrinsically good is the good will, rationality to do what is right for the right reason. / Good will is the only thing fully under our control. / Good will is being motivated to do what is good for the right reasons. The right reasons are ones that are rational. / Motivation should come from moral law or duty. Determining Moral Worth of an Action: Formulate a Maxim-for-Action. /Is it the right thing to do and is your motivation right? /If it is coming from good will, you should do it. /If it does not come from good will, but it is consistent with it, the action is good but you are not doing it for the right reasons, so your act should not beShow MoreRelatedEssay on A Womans Struggle 1373 Words   |  6 PagesMirikitani’s â€Å"Suicide Note,† show the struggle and pain that oppressive forces perpetrated on women. Although, both speakers are oppressed the way they end the oppression and the cause of it are very different. Patriarchy has always existed, and it affects women all over the world. For example, banned bride abductions in Central Asia have continued to occur, and the women who resist abduction, risk death, or becoming ostracized from their country (Werner 2). â€Å"Suicide Note† by Janice MirikitaniRead MoreM1 vs Starhub4138 Words   |  17 PagesFinancial Statements 7 4.1. 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Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Psycho †Shower scene study Free Essays

This scene starts with Marion Crane, wearing a glossy robe. She is seated at the desk in her hotel room with pencil, paper and a bankbook. She is calculating the amount of stolen money she spent and must replace. We will write a custom essay sample on Psycho – Shower scene study or any similar topic only for you Order Now She tears up the sheet of paper and is about to toss it into the wastebasket, but thinks better of it and takes it to the bathroom where she flushes it down the toilet. (I think this symbolises that she thinks she can just flush away her worries like she flushes away the piece of paper) She then closes the door, removes her robe, and steps into the bathtub. She draws the shower curtain closed and unwraps a bar of soap. She turns on the shower. You can see the joy in Crane’s eyes as the water runs through her hair and down her body, this symbolises Crane is washing all her guilt away. The guilt is both from the money she stole and her affair with Sam, her lover. As she is showering, through the translucent shower curtain we see the door open. This starts the build up of suspense. A shadow slowly approaches, adding further to the suspense, Crane is facing away from the attacker. Crane is ironically ignorant of the imminent danger approaching her. The attacker pauses for 6 – 10 seconds before swiftly throwing open the shower curtain. At this moment high pitched music played by violins starts to play. The camera zooms to a close up shot of the attackers face, the attacker is in the shadow, only her (attacker) figure, hair and eyes can be seen. The eyes look vengeful. The camera then switches to a close up shot of Crane’s screaming face, the camera then moves to an extreme close up of Crane’s wide open screaming mouth. This shows the terror and fright installed on Crane by the attacker. The attacker then brings her knife backwards and lunges at Crane with the knife, the attacker only uses her arm, the rest of her body stays as solid as a rock. This shows the attacker is very calm. The attacker and Crane are contrapuntal. The attacker lunges with the knife once again, but Crane squirms attempting to dodge the knife. Crane flails her arms defencelessly; her face is contorted with fear as the attacker stabs faster. Whilst Crane is trying to push the knife away from her body, she is slipping on the wet floor of the bathtub. Crane tries to cover her breasts from the attacker with one arm whilst attempting to ward off the blows with the other, this is when the diegetic sound of the knife stabbing Crane starts. Marion loses her strength, the attackers blows strike unguarded. Crane continues to writhe in pain, as the knife starts to make contact with her skin. Crane face is knotted due to the pain. She grimaces as the knife stabs faster and harder. The knife is now seen being thrust at Crane’s stomach. Her face crumples once again. The knife is now seen being lunged at Crane’s ribs. Crane screams as the knife makes contact. Crane is then seen slipping in her own blood; I think this ands hysteria and irony to the scene. Her feet move rapidly and nervously, Crane subsequently turns away from the attacker this suggests Crane is desperate to get away from her. The attacker stabs crane in the back, bringing back the cruel reality, she cannot escape. The camera switches to Crane’s feet where once again she is slipping in her blood. The camera then switches to a close up shot of Crane’s hand grabbing at the wall. As the attacker leaves the room the audience notice she is wearing a dressing gown and slippers, she has her hair in a tigh t bun. The shrieking violin music stops, indicating the murder is over, the music changes to ominous bass representing Crane is dying. Crane’s hand slowly slides down the wall as the fingertips struggle against the weight of Crane’s own body. Crane is dying, she doesn’t have the strength to use her hand anymore, it falls lifeless to the bottom of the bathtub. Crane then turns around and rests her body on the ceramic tiles. Crane’s face is as solemn as a morgue; her body left with little life slowly slides down the wall. Crane’s expression is constant. Every few seconds her flesh desperately clings to the wet tiles but once again the body weight pulls her down. This makes the audience feel pity for Crane. Nothing can support Crane’s body, Crane gulps like a fish out of water, she knows the end is near. Crane gathers all her strength and reaches out to use the shower curtain to pull herself up. A close up of crane’s hand clasping on to the shower curtain is shown. Her final attempt fails; the shower curtain is pops of the shower rail hooks. Crane’s naked wounded body falls forward, sprawled half over the bathtub half over the bathroom floor. The ominous bass stops, all the audience can hear is the diegetic sound of the shower. The camera moves for a close up of the shower still flowing. I think this symbolises that life moves on, the world has not changed apart from her absence. The next shot is of blood from Crane’s corpse running down the bathtub. The camera would follow the blood down the drain but an extreme close up of Crane’s eye stops us. This reminds us of the murder which has taken place. The camera zooms out showing the whole of Crane’s cold, shocked face pressed against the bathroom floor. Water runs from cranes hair past her eyes, it seems from the audiences’ perspective that Crane is crying. Crane’s face is as motionless as a photograph. A brief shot of the shower follows. The camera moves from the bathroom to Crane’s bedroom at the Bates Motel the camera then zooms for a close up shot of the newspaper where Crane hid the money that she stole. Hitchcock is reminding us of the reason for Crane’s death. If Crane hadn’t stolen the money she would be at home probably in bed. If Crane had not been murdered she would have returned home the next day with the money she stole and a good excuse. Her life would have probably sorted itself out. This reflects on the whole shower scene as a whole. The trauma, hysteria and reality caused by the event. The shower scene gives psychological fear to the audience, they can relate to the shower scene because the audience have showers. Crane was an ordinary person with an ordinary job. This is why this scene is celebrated as a masterpiece in modern times. I was hesitant to pull the shower curtain shut after I watched the scene; I imagine the fear was even greater in the 1960 s because no film like this had ever been made. It was the first true horror movie. How to cite Psycho – Shower scene study, Papers

Friday, May 1, 2020

Organizational Structure Pluralist Society

Question: Describe about the Organizational Structure for Pluralist Society. Answer: Introduction Primarily, this work delves on agricultural industry in Australia. Under this industry, the focal point would be on Australian Agricultural Company (AACo). The aforementioned company is a reputable firm that was established back in 1824 and headquartered at Brisbane. The operation of AACo is centrally pegged on cattle keeping and animal products. Ideally, AACo is established on a vast land of approximately 1000, 000 acres which covers a very expansive land that was set aside by the British parliament for cattle keeping. The company source most of its income from the Meat Processing Industry (Claydon, Knight Rado, 2012). For the last five years, financial records indicate that the firm has been performing well. This is attributed by the fact that in 2015, the company registered a revenue accruing to $561, 026, 000. This was an incredible performance considering some of the underlying factors as par that time of the year that most of the firm were experiencing stiff completion from ot her marketeers globally. AACo is under the leadership of Mr Jason Strong who is the Chief Executive Officer. Mr Strong works alongside the Chairman of AACo named Mr Donald McGauchie who is a non-member in the organization (Dessler, 2012).The firm has divided its operation into two major segments referred to as cattle and land. This piece of work will therefore explicate on companys Structure, its leadership style providing strategies that have been laid down in the view of improving on the efficiency and performance of the firm to realize its ultimate objective amid stiff competition from other countries producing the same products to the market. Companys Structure Accodimg to Gill (2012). AACo has come up with new business structure to meet the rising demands for the firm products in the market. This structure is geared towards bettering their performance and efficiency. Its supply chain is structured in three distinct chains namely; Grassfed cattle, Grainfed cattle and Northern Beef. It is important to underscore that AACo owns 18 cattle stations in different locations that covers 6.4 million hectares. The above mentioned is aimed at reducing some loopholes in its operation. Moreover, this chain is aimed at increasing ratio product (Collins, Leberman Trenberth, 2012). On the same breathe the CEO and the other executive team wants to establish $ 911 million abattoir in the view of increasing its sale and beef production to the market at appropriate time. The company has come up with three segmentation in the view of improving on their productivity to make the work to be in simpler way. Each segment is managed by the human resource who sees to it that everything is conducted well and that the welfare of the employees are met having been provided with the required items for the job before the commencement of duty. Moreover, the three segments make it easier during feeding of the said animals that is beef. It is important to note that cattle are fed differently and therefore require very distinctive segments where the requisite attention and care would be provided to the said animals to increase on their productivity. Companys leadership style AACo operates under strong leadership a fact that puts it at a better position and making it to be reputable firm globally. As earlier mentioned the CEO of AACo is Mr. Jason. This current CEO employs good leadership style that has made the firm to be very competitive and most importantly be able to perform well in the (Leberman, Collins Trenberth, 2012). Looking at the achievements of Mr. Jason, it is explicitly clear that the person employs different managerial techniques which is geared towards improving the performance of AACo and realize good profits. AACo has well-structured leadership starting from CEO to human resource managers who are assigned duties to be in charge of different segments for efficacy (Waniganayake, Cheeseman, Fenech, Hadley Shepherd, 2012). Australian Beef Industry Foundation (ABIF) acknowledge the zealous effort that was made by Mr Jason in transforming the face of AACo. Notably, ABIF conferred him with the Life membership for his exemplary performance in the company considering the fact that he has worked in different capacities in the company. The CEO of AACo employs transformative type of leadership. A transformational leader is the one who would wish to see new changes have been affected in the system for better functionality and expansion of the business. A good indication of his transformative style of leadership is evidenced where the structure of the firm is segmented into three under the new plan postulated by Mr. Jason. Initially the company was operating under the two segments namely cattle and land which proved not to be very effective. Another breakthrough of the leadership is that $ 91 million has been set aside to expand this business by expanding abattoir (Eunson, 2012). As such, the company would be vale to meet the needs of the growing number of clients within Australia and globally. Moreover, it would be important to state that Mr. Jason is friendly leader and therefore accords the employee chance to air their view s in order to aid the company realize its setbacks for corrective measures to be put in place. This approach is seen to be the most effective and results to innumerable success to the company that employs such tactic in its leadership. A good leadership style is the one that is synchronized with some theoretical framework of leadership. Some of the notable theory of leadership are Path Goal theory, Managerial grid theory postulated by Blake and contingencies theory (Thorpe, Buti, Davies, Fridman Jonson, 2013). Looking at the leadership of Mr. Jason, one can easily deduce an element of Path Goal theory approach. Under the aforementioned theory, the leader is focussed to achieve something for the benefit of the company. All this effort is geared towards realizing the core goal of the organization. Similarly, the leadership of Mr. Jason may be identified through the use of managerial grid theory. Since the aforementioned theory is divide in some segments, there are different attribute s that are given depicting a particular leader. However, it is ideal to indicate that the CEO of AACo inspires his employees a reason that makes the firm to be among the leading company that deals with animal products globally. The table below shows the list of its directors and management team. Source: (Scott, 2013) Directors Name Position Start Date Mr Jason Strong Chief Executive Officer, Managing Director 24 Jan 2014 Mr David Charles Crombie Non-Executive Director 5 Oct 2011 Mr Thomas (Tom) B Keene Non-Executive Director 5 Oct 2011 Mr Stuart Alexander Black Non-Executive Director 5 Oct 2011 Mr Anthony Abraham Non-Executive Director 7 Sep 2014 Dr Shehan Dissanayake Non-Executive Director 27 Apr 2012 Mr Neil Reisman Non-Executive Director 10 May 2016 Mr Donald Gordon McGauchie Non-Executive Director, Non-Executive Chairman 19 May 2010 Management Name Position A. Slatter Chief Financial Officer Bruce Bennett Company Secretary G. Davis General Manager - Innovation and Technology A. Bourke General Manager - People and Culture C. Levick General Manager - Sales and Marketing Companys Strategies within Australia and/or overseas markets Seeleman, El As (2015) assert that AACo has laid down some good strategies to improve on their performance and service delivery to the growing market both locally and internationally. Some of the notable step it has embraced is the issue of using both online and offline means to market its brand. The use of offline means encompasses using the print media such as magazine, newspapers, journals, brochure and television means. This is considered to be the traditional means of marketing; however, its role cannot be underrated since they are many people who still rely on it for firsthand information (Strang, 2015). Since the company is serving vast market beyond the sphere of Australia, it has too embraced the use of online means such as opening a website where they market their brand globally. Through online means, AACo is able to reach diversified clients from different nation and therefore playing a significant role in expanding their market (Hoye, Smith, Nicholson Stewart, 2015). AAC o also deals with beef products a fact that enables it to distribute some of their canned meat to some restaurants and franchises that are located within Australia. Proper strategies and good managerial leadership makes it possible for the firm to have efficient distribution of its products (Weaver Willnat, 2012). Similarly, the company transports its products overseas to Asia countries and America where its consumption is very high. It also does proper marketing at this nation so as to fully sensitize the community on its product and informing them on variety of the products they offer to the market. Apart from marketing, AACo is establishing more stores where different clients from Australia may get access to its product from the nearest shopping centres. This has also been seen to have played significant role in widening its market and their sales. Due to the companys reputation, it is putting some good measures to see to it that it heightens its sale by reaching potential clients who are geographically spread in different destinations (Raphael, 2012). AACo has variety of products that best suits the needs of the clients. It is due to this diversification on products that they are at better position to increase their sale throughout the year. The better thing with AACo is that it does not h ave seasonality. This implies that they sale there produce throughout the year and their sale is not affected by any factor such as climate or festivities (Miner, 2015). Moreover, the firm has well trained personnel who are skilled and able to provide their services diligently. It is due to this expertise that the business it able to meet its objectives and maintain high standards of hygiene that makes most of the people have trust in their products. Comments on AACos structure and strategies I find the strategies laid down by AAACo to be the most effective and instrumental to the business field. Most importantly this is too enhanced by good leadership under the headship of Mr. Jason. The aforementioned CEO uses some variability of leadership technique to see to it that they are achieving their core objective in their organization. Moreover, the way the company has been structured make it easy for the CEO with other managers to carry out their duty effectively (Weaver Willnat, 2012). Proper structuring of this company into three segments make all the department run on smoothly as each departmental heads or human resource managers on each level is liable for any activities taking place. It is due to this proper division that AACo is on a better platform to realize multiple fruits amid competition from other companies of the same level. It is important to underscore that a companys structure and organization determines their performance. AACo is a company that has existed for more than 100 years due to good leadership and structure that have been observed for so long. Currently, AACo expands their market to Hong Kong and Broadleaf in US where they export red meat. They are sensitizing the on the importance of taking red meat obliterating some of the misconceptions that was previously held about the red meat. The focal point of establish AACo was to improve on quality of merino sheep for export to countries such as Britain. It has now expanded its cattle station to eighteen a fact that shows that is operating a profit making business. The financial records too indicate that they are registering some positive deviation in sale every year for the last five years a fact that puts it on a better place. In 2001, it entered the Australian Stock Exchange where the firm could now asses its performance in comparison with other firms in the nation. As earlier mentioned, transformative leaders wishes to see changes effected in their work of place before their term expires. It is due to this that Mr. Strong as a transformative leader has initiated some of the notable things in the company which would propel the company to realize its ultimate goals Vis a Vis underlying factors. This is the reason that the executive set aside $ 91 million to establish an abattoir in the view of expanding their market and improving on their production due to high demand of the products (Luthans, Doh Hodgetts, 2012). The abattoir is aimed at meeting the global demand for meat product from AACo. This company is amongst the leading company in production of meat products to the global market. This is the fact that makes the organization select a leader who is transformative to initiate good project that would s ee the company maintain its status and enjoy the economic advantage. Bibliography CLAYDON, L., KNIGHT, T., RADO, M. (2012).Curriculum and Culture: Schooling in a Pluralist Society. Hoboken, Taylor Francis. https://public.eblib.com/choice/publicfullrecord.aspx?p=957284. COLLINS, C., LEBERMAN, S., TRENBERTH, L. (2012).Sport business management in New Zealand and Australia. South Melbourne, Vic, Cengage Learning Australia. DESSLER, G. (2012).Management and people: HRMG100. Fenches Forest, N.S.W., Pearson Education Australia. EUNSON, B. (2012).Communication in the Workplace. Hoboken, John Wiley Sons. https://public.eblib.com/choice/publicfullrecord.aspx?p=849919. GILL, P. (2012).Policing Politics: Security Intelligence and the Liberal Democratic State. Hoboken, Taylor and Francis. https://www.123library.org/book_details/?id=60132. GUPTA, M., WALP, J., SHARMAN, R. (2012).Strategic and practical approaches for information security governance: technologies and applied solutions. Hershey, Pa, IGI Global (701 E. Chocolate Avenue, Hershey, Pennsylvania, 17033, USA). https://public.eblib.com/choice/publicfullrecord.aspx?p=3311566. HOYE, R., SMITH, A. C., NICHOLSON, M., STEWART, B. (2015).Sport Management Principles and Applications. Florence, Taylor and Francis. LEBERMAN, S. I., COLLINS, C., TRENBERTH, L. (2012).Sport business management in Australia and New Zealand. South Melbourne, Vic, Cengage Learning Australia. LUTHANS, F., DOH, J. P., HODGETTS, R. M. (2012).International management: culture, strategy, and behavior. New York, McGraw-Hill. RAPHAEL, D. (2012).Tackling health inequalities: lessons from international experiences. Toronto, Canadian Scholars' Press. SCOTT, M. (2013).Making New Zealand's pop renaissance: state, markets, musicians. SEELEMAN, CONNY, ESSINK-BOT, MARIE-LOUISE, STRONKS, KARIEN, INGLEBY, DAVID. (2015).How should health service organizations respond to diversity? A content analysis of six approaches. BioMed Central Ltd. BioMed Central Ltd. https://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6963/15/510. STRANG, K. D. (2015).The Palgrave handbook of research design in business and management. Basingstoke, Palgrave Macmillan. https://www.palgraveconnect.com/doifinder/10.1057/9781137484956. THORPE, D., BUTI, A., DAVIES, C., FRIDMAN, S., JONSON, F. P. (2013).Sports Law. Sydney, Oxford University Press. https://public.eblib.com/choice/PublicFullRecord.aspx?p=4388628. WANIGANAYAKE, M., CHEESEMAN, S., FENECH, M., HADLEY, F., SHEPHERD, W. (2012).Leadership Contexts and Complexities in Early Childhood Education. Sydney, Oxford University Press. https://public.eblib.com/choice/PublicFullRecord.aspx?p=4389151. WEAVER, D. H., WILLNAT, L. (2012).The global journalist in the 21st century. New York, Routledge.

Sunday, March 22, 2020

Contrasting an Online Class to a Traditional Class

Table of Contents Introduction An Online Class A Traditional Class Conclusion Introduction A college or an advanced degree was historically a dream among many people especially the full time employed people and family oriented career professionals but today academic achievements are a reality that is almost becoming the standard style. Many people are taking studies concurrently with their jobs in the aim of becoming apprentices in their field of specialization. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Contrasting an Online Class to a Traditional Class specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Most people mainly work to get good remunerations, but the level of payment mostly depends on skill area and level of skills. What many potential students have discovered is the ability to blow off their academic limits by considering other options of attending classes without having to be physically involved. This is a practical strat egy of influencing the payment levels or staying competitive in the job market among the part-time students. What are the differences between the online classes and the physical or traditional classes? An Online Class Online classes provide one with a chance to learn by combining college theory work, with the work training provided by employers at the work place. According to online education guides, one is able to get a competitive edge over those who have to attend fulltime classes physically before they can engage work placements. One can easily connect the online studies to real work situations, thus making the learning process to become easier, since there is no need to keep remembering facts. Much of the learning is achievable though application of what one learns during fieldwork. An online study therefore provides one with the ability to turn theories to practice without further delays. The diversity of technology and availability of wide choices without any physical limit s enables a student to be in a position of recognizing institutions with high qualifications internationally and enroll in the best institutions, without extra economic requirements such as travel and accommodation expenses. A Traditional Class With a traditional class, one attends the class full-time as per the set class schedule. Here most of the learning occurs theoretically with fewer practical or applications that do not involve real job market as in the online class, where one has freedom to practice. Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, the learner is able to concentrate on the syllabus taught fully without interruptions and later translate the theory practically in the job market. Unlike the online class, the learner’s errors may cause inconveniences to training, the traditional class is different as all materials and facilities are for learning purposes. There i s also no much pressure on the student in traditional class as the instructors or teachers are patient to guide one through, unlike online class where the learner or even the instructors are on pressure to meet the high market level. In most cases, the traditional class syllabus is usually a bit wider hence offering the trainee much more as opposed to online classes where there is lack of provisions for diversification of the subject. Educational websites restrict the materials to what is necessary for the trainee rather than wasting resources on giving what is pertained in the whole field of expertise. Traditional classes offer one freedom to choose from the whole library of books. Conclusion The choice between online classes and the traditional classes solely depends on career requirements or vital and technical skills requirements, therefore one should be in a position to make a personal choice that will enable achievement of goals by contrasting between the two. Recent change s in the global market require people who are able to invest heavily in education, thus the need to find alternative methods of attending classes. Either Part or full time learning can enhance competitive edge and ability to find extra skills in educational level for career advancement.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Contrasting an Online Class to a Traditional Class specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This essay on Contrasting an Online Class to a Traditional Class was written and submitted by user Bryanna Erickson to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Thursday, March 5, 2020

Polo Ralph Lauren

Polo Ralph Lauren Introduction Polo Ralph Lauren is a clothing company started by Ralph Lauren and specializes in semi-formal casual wear for men, women and children (not as a unique specialization because the company also produces accessories, fragrances and other home clothing, such as home towels).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Polo Ralph Lauren specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Its products are however high-end and are well known throughout America and certain parts of Europe and Asia (Kent, 2003, p. 111). The company’s impact in the American fashion industry is profound, and this is the reason most of the company’s products are well known throughout the country. The company’s headquarter is in Manhattan, New York, but it has several outlets in Europe (in locations such as London) and Asia (in locations such as Japan). Polo Ralph Lauren is an appropriate company for this analysis because it has been in existence for a long time (since 1967) and therefore, there is an immense body of information regarding its strategies and goals. Emphasis on strategies and goals is made in this case because this study focuses on how the company’s current strategies are designed to meet the company’s goals and objectives. As mentioned earlier in this study, Polo Ralph Lauren was started in 1967 by Ralph Lauren, who only specialized in men’s wear, and more specifically, men’s ties (Kent, 2003, p. 111). The first store was opened in Manhattan, but in 1971, the company ventured into women’s clothing by starting another store in Beverly Hills, California (Kent, 2003, p. 111). In the early 80s, the company opened its first global store out of America (London), and by 1997, the company had already been listed in the New York stock exchange. In 2009, the company boasted of having more than 160 stores around the globe, with more than 24,000 employees in 31 countries (W right, 2011). The company’s current threats are: competition, increase in counterfeit goods and the shaky world economy, which is significantly affecting the company’s sales because recent global financial downturns have eroded customer’s buying power, and more especially, the demand for high-end goods. Strategy and Management Polo Ralph Lauren’s business strategy is a mix of several strategies aimed at improving the company’s brand presence in the global map, and strengthening the competitiveness of the brand. These strategies are intertwined in a flexible brand strategy, developed along the lines of retail, wholesale and licensing, although the brand has still remained true to its identity) (Lauren, 2011, p. 1).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The company’s mission statement is to â€Å"Redefine American style, provide quality products, create worlds, and invite people to take part in our dreams† (ChaCha Search, Inc., 2011, p. 1). The company’s strategic goals are however firmly designed to expand the company’s global presence because one core pillar of the company’s strategy is to continue building and extending the Polo Ralph Lauren brand, by improving the brand’s unique luxury design and quality. The company also expects to expand its brand strategy by focusing on its advertising and marketing strategies, and through this effort, the company expects to empower its retail stores to further uphold the brand strengthening strategy. This strategy is expected to be further complemented by excellent customer service, merchandize mixing, and visual presentation, which are meant to attract more customers and build on a strong brand strategy, designed to come up with new products (Lauren, 2011, p. 1). The second pillar in the company’s core strategy is to focus on specialty brand retail, where brand differentiation and position stand out to elevate the Polo Ralph Lauren brand above the competitors’. The company’s third pillar is closely associated with the first, because it is based on expanding the brand’s international presence. This strategy is based on expanding the brand’s operations through new product developments, sensitive to the host’s culture. The company’s managerial structure is also a strong pillar of the company’s operations. At the top of the managerial structure is the company’s chief executive office, assisted by the company’s vice president. The company’s chief executive officer has always been Polo Ralph Lauren and since the brand was personally built, the company has been subject to a hierarchical structure of management, where most of the decisions are made by the CEO (Lauren, 2011, p. 1). The management team is also comprised of other highly qualified individuals, with an impeccable academic qualification and sufficient experience in the fashion industry.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Polo Ralph Lauren specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Employee recruitment and selection is undertaken by an independent human resource team, but the employees undergo a thorough vetting process to assess the potential candidates’ experience in the fashion world, and how best they can be of value to the organization. A great part of the hiring process is normally undertaken online and candidates are sourced in the same manner. After selection, employees are taken through a training and development program, where they are oriented with how the organization works. The company’s internship program is also another strategy the company uses to nurture new talent through training and development. Market Mix Polo Ralph Lauren’s marketing mix entails the company’s distribution, promotion, competitive and product and price strategies. As mentioned earlier in this study, the company majorly deals in high-end clothing products for men, women and children, but on the side, the company also produces fragrances accessories, towels, and similar house ware materials, which are of exemplary quality, but priced relatively higher than normal brands. The company’s distribution strategy is characterized by a strong emphasis on the company’s retail outlets, although some of the company’s products are also moved through the wholesale channel. Depending on the market in question, the company majorly uses the two strategies. With regards to the company’s promotion strategy, a lot of emphasis is laid on advertising and branding, as opposed to public relations, direct selling or similar sales approaches. However, there is also a strong emphasis by the company to enrich its customer experience by guaranteeing high quality customer services. This is the core strategy used to retain its customers. However, the company majorly relies on its advertising and branding strategies to attract customers. Polo Ralph Lauren’s major competitor in the high-end clothing business is Louis Vuitton. Louis Vuitton’s strategy is also focused on international expansion, but its focus is majorly centered on reaching out to the growing number of wealthy customers in emerging markets such as China and India (Bloomberg, 2007). Financial Analysis Polo Ralph Lauren’s financial performance has been on a positive increasing trend, considering the company has experienced an increase in revenues over the past two years. With regards to the net income, Wright (2011) affirms that, â€Å"The fiscal 2011 net income was $568 million, or $5.75 per diluted share, compared to net income of $480 million, or $4.73 per diluted share, for Fiscal 2010† (p. 2).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More When the company’s performance, in terms of net revenues, for the fourth quarter of the final 2011 fiscal period, compared to the same fourth quarter fiscal period, in the year 2010, it is affirmed that, there was a significant increase in net revenue of 7% from ($1.3 billion to $1.4billion) (Wright, 2011). The company’s profits are determined using the above parameters, it is affirmed that, there was a 3% increase in profit from the year 2010 to 2011. The company’s stock price is also on the upward trend, with the year 2011 witnessing an increased share price margin of +0.09%. The following chart shows the increase in the company’s stock prices: From this trend, the company seems to be making a positive growth, with regards to its financial performance Conclusion Polo Ralph Lauren’s strategies are very diverse and dynamic. Though most of the company’s strategies are forthright and tailored to deal with today’s competitive business e nvironment, the company seems to be significantly diverting from its core mission, which is to improve the American style of life and provide an enriching experience to its customers, by providing high quality goods. However, the company seems to focus more on an international strategy aimed at increasing its profitability and expanding its brand presence. This seems to be a strategy adopted to overcome its competitive challenges. In other words, it is more outward oriented, than internally motivated. Regardless, the company seems to be doing well, with regards to its financial performance and marketing mix, because it has been able to experience increased profitability in recent financial postings. Comprehensively, the company needs to put more effort in merging its strategies with its core business goals. References Bloomberg. (2007). Louis Vuittons Life of Luxury. Web. ChaCha Search, Inc. (2011). What Is Polo Ralph Laurens Mission Statement? Web. Kent, J. (2003). Business Builder s in Fashion. New York: The Oliver Press, Inc. Lauren, R. (2011). Growth Strategies. Web. Wright, K. (2011). Polo Ralph Lauren Corporation Reports Financial Results for Fourth Quarter Full Year 2011 – NYSE: RL. Web.

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

The Management of Global Trade Distribution - De Beers Essay

The Management of Global Trade Distribution - De Beers - Essay Example It was able to exert monopolistic influence among suppliers in the diamond industry to sell their rough diamonds to De Beers’ channel which was then the Central Selling Organisation or CSO which then enabled De Beers to control the global supply of diamonds even if the diamonds did not came from De Beer’s mines (Ziminisky2013). II. De Beers distribution system: Monopoly De Beers is one of the few companies that exerted monopoly in its supply and distribution that it creative a competitive advantage for the company. During its height in 1902, it was able to control an overwhelmingly 90 percent of the diamond industry that it can dictate the price and availability of diamonds (Sehgal 2011). Monopoly exists when a only a single company exists to dominate a certain industry in the provision of goods or services (Milton 2002). Its high price today and its perception of being a valued commodity can be attributed to De Beers’ strategy to justify the increase of the pric e of diamonds because diamonds perse have no practical use and its high price does not reflect its scarcity because its price remains high even if it is in abundance (Yu nd). III. Forms of distribution of De Beers: CSO and DTC De Beers is probably the most successful and biggest monopoly company in the world that virtually operated in almost absolute cartel from its beginning in 1800s until 2001. It was able to establish its cartel like monopoly in the diamond industry when Ernest Oppenheimer achieved a controlling stake in De Beers in the mid 1920s when it expanded into various operations of the diamond industry with the goal of monopolizing its distribution. It did so by influencing suppliers in a multitude of ways to sell its produce of rough diamonds to De Beers’ channel which was then the Central Selling Organisation or CSO which then enabled De Beers to control the global supply of diamonds even if the diamonds did not came from De Beer’s mines (Bergenstock et al 2006). De Beer’s cartel like distribution channel which is the Central Selling Organisation or CSO and later evolved to become Diamond Trading Centers or DTC is probably the most successful monopolistic distribution system in the world. It can basically dictate the entire diamond industry because it can determine what should be sold, when, where and how much. Since it controlled majority of the supply (85% to 90% of the market) through its CSO or DTC, buyers have no choice but to avail diamonds through De Beers’ distribution system of CSO or DTC. To be able to buy diamonds from De Beers’ distribution system, it has to become a member or â€Å"Sightholder† because De Beers only sell diamonds to qualified â€Å"Sightholders† until today. According to De Beer, this event of selling diamonds are known as â€Å"Sights† because, â€Å"during the sales period, [their] customers are able to physically inspect the stones we are offering them before deciding whether to purchase† (De Beer 2012). These customers are selected according the â€Å"Supplier of Choice contract  criteria† (De Beers 2012). In essence, however, these â€Å"Sightholders† are powerless during â€Å"sights† because they have to accept the terms set forth by De Beers where they are not allowed to negotiate and can only accept

Monday, February 3, 2020

Assess the claim that progress has stalled in terms of raising the Essay

Assess the claim that progress has stalled in terms of raising the proportion of women in senior executive and boardroom positio - Essay Example As argued by Howard and Wellins (2008) â€Å"in all major global regions, women are more likely than men to fall off the management ladder before reaching the top† (p. 6). They explained this through the theory of ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors which involves an array of economic, organisational, and social aspects. Push factors refer to passive or unfulfilling jobs. On the other hand, the pull factors are life situations that force women to leave their jobs like health problems, family commitments, or caring obligations (Howard & Wellins, 2008). A recent study by Schneer and Reitman looked at the effects of career preference and outcomes for women in comparison to men in managerial positions (Bilimoria, 2007, p. 21). They discovered that the effect of gender differences on the work setting for women in comparison to men with MBA degrees was more pronounced in later than earlier career phases. Numerous researchers have observed that organisations are †˜gendered’, and hence view of career plans is expected to have more unfavourable effects for females than males (Fagan et al., 2012). Thus, what is most important is possibly not the quantity of work but the quality and nature of that work, particularly for career women. Another major phenomenon that has been given much emphasis recently is the issue of whether part-time job characterises unfavourable reduced work or favourable flexible work patterns for employees, particularly women. Several researchers report that women prefer or are more contented with part-time job than men, because this work arrangement offers flexibility (Burke & Mattis, 2005). Nevertheless, stages of part-time work have detrimental effects on pay, and females are more likely than males to engage in part-time jobs. This implies that earlier assumptions that career women with children can gain from part-time work arrangement without considerable negative impact on present and future career opportunities or outcomes could be flawed, especially in early stages of career (Durbin & Tomlinson, 2010). It is possible that these kinds of interruptions are not merely cutbacks in work time, but also signify a reduction or impediment in status that is disadvantageous for the women’s future career outcomes. Some claim that the higher probability of a women engaging in part-time work compared to men occupying part-time jobs signifies the likelihood of preserving or reinforcing the inferior standing of women in society (Liff & Ward, 2001). Findings on job satisfaction show that women who are voluntarily engaged in part-time jobs usually agree to weaker job security and lower pay in return for less stress and more favourable working arrangements. Mothers are usually more likely than childless women to work part-time because it facilitates reconciliation of domestic and career obligations (Durbin & Tomlinson, 2010). Mothers in the UK, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, and Austria are s pecifically likely to engage in part-time job (Rubery, 1998, 200). According to Wirth (2004), the inadequacy of quality, inexpensive childcare compels many women with children to accept part-time work arrangements. Women, across all sectors, are currently engaged in managerial work but are less likely to occupy higher level leadership positions, suggesting that obstacles to women’s career progression are still existing. The number of women occupying senior management and board positions across the globe are few compared

Sunday, January 26, 2020

Understanding The Term Of Agenda Setting Media Essay

Understanding The Term Of Agenda Setting Media Essay Maxwell McCombs and Donald Shaw first coined the term agenda-setting in their article The Agenda Setting Function of the Mass Media (McCombs and Shaw, 1972). However the McCombs credits Walter Lippmann as the intellectual father of agenda setting (McCombs, 2004: 3). Walter Lippmanns thesis Public Opinion  [1]  described the concept of a pseudo- environment; an imagined reality of the world constructed from the media we consume. Lippmann suggested that man lives in a fictitious world, hence whatever we believe to be true picture, we treat as if it were the environment itself (Lippmann, 2007: 7-10). Walter Lippmann speculation that the Mass Media played an important role in the publics understanding of the world they inhabited. The influence that he implied suggested the mass media agenda played an important role in influencing/shaping the public opinion or public agenda. Hansen writing 88 years later reaffirmed this relationship theorised by Lippmann, suggesting the media play a role in educating the public: While the roles of formal education in acquainting us with the public word and image vocabulary of the environment should not be overlooked, much, maybe most, of what we learn and know about the environment we know from the media. Hansen utilises the Habermasian concept of a public sphere, suggesting that the mass media provide a public arena for national and transnational debate of environmental issues: Since the emergence and rise of the modern environmental movement in the 1960s, the mass media have been a central public arena for publicising environmental issues and for contesting claims, arguments and opinions about our use and/or protection of the environment. (Hansen, 2010:6) The issues discussed within this public arena, can be described as the media agenda. However as much as the mass media provides a forum for discussion, it is not all inclusive. Environmental issues have to compete against each other for widespread coverage. As the environmental agenda, isnt always at the forefront of the public agenda, often multiple environmental issues are fighting for limited coverage from the press: While many issues compete for public attention, only a few are successful in doing so, and news media exert significant influence on our perceptions of what are the most important issues of the day. (McCombs, 2004:2) McCombs, Lippmann and Hansen all suggest that the media dictate to some level, what are the most important issues of the day. The conundrum becomes; how do the cultural gatekeepers decide which issue is the most important on the media agenda, and thus deserves media coverage? What influences the Media on environmental issues? To understand these questions it is necessary to address the fundamental obstacle for environmental issues to overcome to become newsworthy. Visual media utilises imagery as a source of legitimacy. However as environmental problems develop over a long period of time they often appear invisible: a large proportion of the processes associated with the most difficult environmental problems tend to be inaccessible to the senses, invisible until they materialise as symptoms (Adam, 1998:12; Hansen, 2000: 56). Hence although some environmental issues may be more serious in the long-term, they are not always deemed newsworthy as they have no iconography attached to their cause. Pressure groups utilize the issue of invisibility by creating spectacles and press stunts in order to make the invisible issues visible. Greenpeace in particular are hugely successful at utilizing iconography  [2]  . Iconic images of icebergs, crashing into the sea or Fathers for Justice scaling the Houses of Parliament can define an issue, and penetrate public consciousness, much easier than text based media. However Hansen argues that the effects of visual spectacles are short term; they only allow the issue to gain visibility as a trigger to create wider media interest for the issue: The newsworthiness of environmental pressure groups would soon wear off it had to rely solely on their creation of spectacular protest performances[they] are of course eminently newsworthy and visually striking, but they are not sufficient for remaining on the media agenda or for maintaining media visibility in the long term. (Hansen, 2010: 53) Hansen argues that successful pressure groups are able to maintain visibility of the issue in the media by targeting issues that are already being discussed in the forums which the media regularly report on (i.e. Political forums, e.g. Parliament) (Hansen, 2010:53). This would suggest that the media agenda is directly and indirectly influenced by policy agenda, suggesting a symbiotic relationship as the media influence the public agenda, which in turn influences the policy agenda by terms of voting. James Dearing and Everett Rogers (Dearing and Rogers: 1996, Rogers and Dearing: 1988) visualised this concept [see figure 1] suggesting that all three agendas are interlinked: exposure through the mass media allows a social problem to be transformed into a public issue (Dearing and Rogers, 1996:4). When something becomes a public issue it is propelled into policy agenda through the government; who represent the majoritys best interests. However the mass media commentate on the policy agenda so pressure groups are able to exploit this cycle, by elevating topics they deem to be of most importance higher on the media agenda and in turn policy agenda via public pressure: The agenda-setting process is an ongoing competition among the proponents of a set of issues to gain the attention of media professionals, the public, and policy elites (Dearing and Rogers, 1996:6). Figure However the relationship between the three agendas is not without its flaws; For environmental issues to be addressed by the press, they must propel themselves as the most important issue on the agenda to the media. However this does not correspond to levels of importance or seriousness to the public: The relative prominence of a social issue is not in any way a simple reflection of levels of public concern; it is heavily influenced by the activities of issue sponsors such as politicians, or successful interest or pressure groups (Anderson, 1997:30). The notion that issues that appear in the media agenda are not necessarily the most important suggests other actors play a role in setting the agenda. So whilst we rely on the news to dictate what picture of the world we consume, the news agenda can be influenced by amongst other factors, celebrity endorsements. Dan Brockington (2008) suggests industrial society has only a fleeting interest in the environment: their rare glimpse of the environment is often through highly romanticized representations of the environment rather than their own experiences. Hence celebrity endorsements of environmentalism help to replace the lack of experience in society: celebrity support for conservation fulfils a modern social need. The alienation from nature that characterizes capitalist urban living drives the demand for celebrity involvement in conservation (Brockington, 2008:558). Criticisms of the agenda setting model Agenda setting theory is based on long term effects. In order for an issue to become central in terms of public opinion, McCombs argued that the frequency or prominence of a given issue in the mass media, placed significant influence on how important the issues was perceived by the public: Those issues emphasized in the news come to be regarded over time as important by the public (McCombs, 2004:4-5). However McCombs analysis of the prominence of a given issue doesnt take into consideration how the issue is framed within the mass media: Social movements have increasingly focused on the media since it plays such an influential role in assigning importance to issues facing the public. But gaining attention alone is not what a social movement wants; the real battle is over whose interpretation, whose framing of reality, gets the floor. (Ryan, 1991:53) Issues are at the mercy of the press, when they are pushed into the media forum. Different papers frame the issues within their ideological constraints. What becomes essential for claimsmakers and pressure groups, is the ability to manipulate the mass media, so the issue at hand remains at the focus within the different ideological representations. The quantitative approach also only looks how many times an article was published, not how many times the article was read. Obviously circulation figures are a rough guide that an article is being read by a high percentage of that readership. However this is no guarantee that the article is digested. This becomes a bigger problem when considering new mediums such as the internet, is that the quantity of articles on environmental issues is so vast that it would be inconceivable to assume that prominence related to prevalence to the public. Robert Burnett and P. David Marshall suggested that the problem readers have is filtering the vast amounts of information they have access to, to find the right news stories (Burnett and Marshall, 2003: 153). Since then digital news has grown significantly in popularity; the problem thus becomes how can the media influence public opinion when the public have become their own filters, so can solely digest stories based on their interests rather than only being able to choose from a limited set of stories in a newspaper based on an editors choices. Another criticism of the quantitative analysis model favoured by McCombs is that it doesnt take into consideration how something gets adopted by the media. Anderson argued that agenda-setting theorists such as McCombs do not look at the initial triggers that cause issues to be included into the media agenda: Agenda-setting studies have tended to ignore the whole process through which social issues are taken up by the media (Anderson, 1997:25). Within Dearing and Rogers Model, the public are not deemed to be pivotal for the agenda setting process. However when considering the trigger that propels an issue into the media and policy forums (specifically on environmental issues) it can sometimes be attributed to a small group of public individuals who insight direct action, to spark wider interest. Brian Doherty et al. describe direct action as: Protest action where protesters engage in forms of action designed not only or necessarily to change government policy or to shift the climate of public opinion through the media, but to change environmental actions around them directly. (Doherty, Paterson and Seel, 2000:1) The term public is contestable itself; how do differentiate between ordinary members of environmental non-governmental organisations and members of a concerned community? Within different contexts we can all be described as the public. Protesters can be seen as belonging to the public, so the direct action that often provides the trigger for the uptake of issues into the media agenda could be described as coming from a small proportion of the public. The key component of agenda setting research should then be considered minority influence. The minority groups or opinion leaders disseminate their concerns on certain issues by influencing others by empowering their causes by form of protests, publicity stunts and media performances. Environmental Agenda Setting Looking specifically at the Kingsnorth Six case study and applying the Agenda Setting theory to it, we can expose the complexities involved in the agenda setting process and how they may or may not be relevant when looking at it through the perspective of a non-governmental organisation, deciphering whether they are successful in utilising the media to fulfil their aims. The Kingsnorth Six direct action protest involved the David Pepper claims that environmentalism is less a coherent movement and more of a turn in late-twentieth-century thought arguing that in its simplest definition an environmentalist; is one who is concerned with the environment. Thus the majority of the West can be described as environmentalists (Pepper, 2000:445-6). Whilst openly sharing oppositional views is widely acknowledged as a social taboo, the amount of active environmentalists are less popular. Hence by gathering attention to the Kingsnorth case, Greenpeace could turn a minority cause and propel it to the masses, thus gaining the issue serious political significance by bringing it to the environmental sympathisers domain; as nobody wants to be seen as actively damaging the environment, for fear of commercial and political repercussions from the sympathizing majority. Hutchins and Lester argue that journalists have an environmentalist bias as it is in their readers interest: Journalists acknowledge the saliency of environmental issues to readers and audiences because of the threats posed to natural environments and peoples wellbeing by degradation and the unchecked activities of capital. (Hutchins and Lester, 2006:434) Environmental issues have been of particular relevance since global warming was posed as a theory, ever since it has been at the forefront of media and science agenda, seeing with it the rise in popularity of political parties such as the Green Party in the United Kingdom yet also a rise in green policies. Environmental concerns transcend all classes so are useful for the media in targeting large concerned audiences. This scaremongering tactic validates the work of pressure groups and non-governmental organisations and disguises the profit motives of the media reporting it. However Hutchins and Lester ignore two key oppositional concepts: the influence of corporations as advertisers and journalistic objectivity. The first point can be dismissed as only one corporation is being targeted the money lost from attacking E.ON can be easily filled by other businesses from other sectors. The second point journalistic objectivity, allows a platform for debate, whereby environmental sceptics are allowed an equal platform to discuss their opinions. This creates a dilemma similar to the religion versus science debate; influential sceptics are allowed to pollute the influence of pressure groups with little grounding in scientific fact or common sense. The media is more than a site for environmental action; it plays a significant role in shaping debate and influencing outcomes. It is here that representations are determined, images softened or distorted, and power granted or denied. (Hutchins and Lester, 2006: 438) Hutchins and Lester bring up a fundamental point of the nature of the media in influencing outcomes of protests. Whereas the media validated Greenpeaces protests, specifically broadsheets such as The Guardian, projecting the Kingsnorth Six onto hero status; even premiering the Nick Broomfields short documentary A Time Comes: The Story of the Kingsnorth Six (Broomfield, 2009). This presented the Kingsnorth Six as ordinary members of the public with no activist history, whom simply wanted to right a wrong. Dieter Rucht describes how in some rare instances the mass media can potentially be considered an ally for the social movements such as The Guardian in this case. However he warns that social movements would be wrong to rely on this as the mass media carry their own agenda different from the aims of the social movement (Rucht, 2004: 55). The protest/publicity stunt clearly intended to insight media interest. Nick Broomfields short documentary (Broomfield, 2009) highlights the directness of Greenpeaces tactics to achieve press coverage. The activists assumptions of the media reaction were highlighted by a quote from Ben Stewart one of the Kingsnorth Six: because my parents live near there (Kingsnorth Power Station), I gave them a ring and said you might see on the news that I am on top of this power station (Stewart in Broomfield, 2009). This arrogance becomes justified when noting the previous newsworthiness of Greenpeace protests in gaining media attention (Carroll and Hackett, 2006:87). Stewart then goes on to state Greenpeaces exact intentions, emphasizing the performance aspect of the protest by having what is implied as press conferences on top of the chimney: I got up and did the interviews with the media and tried to justify it (the protest) to the public when we were up there, and of cause this thing is always a bit controversial (Stewart in Broomfield, 2009). Then implying that it would disseminate the issue into public discourse/forums: you get lots of public ringing into the talk radio stations saying were nothing (Stewart in Broomfield, 2009). The whole direct action performance comes across as merely being a platform to receive media coverage to then disseminate their issue into the agenda. However Greenpeaces performance tactics resonate well with the medias agenda as they provide the media with pre-packaged news stories: Greenpeace has always been inherently fascinating and newsworthy as far as the media are concerned. It presented them with totally pre-packaged, simplistic but very powerful images of confrontation that were very new and exciting (Gallie cited in Anderson, 1997:35) The Kingsnorth Six protest certainly did this; providing photographs, videos and interviews to the various interested media. Allowing Greenpeace to remain in control of how their imagery was framed and represented. On an interview with ITV Meridian Tonight Stewart justified their actions by highlighting Greenpeaces agenda on E.ONs proposed plans: Gordon Brown wants to build a new one of those carbon dinosaurs and thats why were up here, were trying to stop that happening (Stewart in Broomfield, 2009). The telephone interview from the top of the tower to new stations emphasises the link between performance and agenda setting. Whereas the protest may give the guise of trying to shut down the Kingsnorth plant in order to stop the polluting power station, the primary objective of the press stunt prevails: securing communication with the media, thus allowing Greenpeace to dictate the news agenda. However their story only reached local level on television news coverage, receiving coverage from ITV Meridian Tonight and BBC South-East Today. Contrary to the regionalised coverage of the initial protest the subsequent trial received national attention on the respective channels. This would imply that the Kingsnorth Six protest functioned as a trigger to greater media coverage rather than gaining the substantial media coverage needed for an issue to become adopted into the national media and public agenda. It would be easy to assume that Greenpeace had expected more coverage than they received initially. However the issue was already in the political forum, with the Governmental body The Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform due to release a white paper on the carbon capture and storage regulations. This reflects Hansens sentiments (mentioned earlier), suggesting it is a deliberate tactic to target issues already in political forums (Hansen, 2010:53). Critiques of Greenpeace reaffirm Hansens observations. Chris Ross writing for Greenpeace highlighted some of myths surrounding the Brent Spar case study; that Greenpeace had the potential to act on issues that they themselves stood to gain positive framing, in other words easy battles: Greenpeace had given little though to the issue it was going to tackle, or its consequences. In short, the Brent Spar was a good photo opportunity for an organisation faced (in some countries) with a decline of its membership and visibility. (Ross, 1998:40) This could be said of the Kingsnorth Case, Greenpeace knew that the proposed plans were controversial within the economical and political climate, so had predicted an easy win which would create a good photo opportunity. This is not to say that Greenpeace was not interested in the issue beforehand, but simply chose a strategic target out of the many environmental criminals in the world. Greenpeace should not be solely attributed with pushing the Kingsnorth case into the media, public and policy agenda after all other non-governmental organisations were also active such as Climate Camp and Friends of the Earth. This poses the dilemma; did Greenpeace activate this protest network by projecting the struggle into the agenda? However it is evident from the polaric media representation of the protests that the Greenpeace protest yielded a greater media influence (than the Climate Camp protests) due to its previous validation within the media because of previous successes in gaining media attention (Carroll and Hackett, 2006:87). Whereas Climate Camp was undermined by their history of negative encounters with the police. The Kingsnorth Six Coverage/ Analysis On October 8th 2007 six Greenpeace representatives climbed the 200 metre high smokestack at the Kingsnorth power station in Medway, Kent, attempting to paint the words Gordon bin it on it. Whilst another 20 activists chained themselves to the stations conveyor belt, immobilising it from burning coal. The Kingsnorth Six as the media labelled them (see fig.2 ), successfully managed to draw significant media attention from October 2007 till September 2008 when the activists were acquitted of the charges of causing  £30,000 of criminal damage to the smokestack on the defence that they were acting to prevent climate change, a landmark case in legal history  [3]  . Figure : 5 members of the Kingsnorth 6 Greenpeace activists. Greenpeace aspired to highlight the plans of the government and the German energy corporation E.ONs proposed plans to build a new coal powered power station at Kingsnorth which was proposed to be operational by 2012; the first of its kind in Britain since 1986. Greenpeace claimed itself that the ensuing direct action led to the postponement of E.ONs plans. Much like the Brent Spar case in 1995, as Hansen described: Greenpeace succeeded in stiring up sufficient media, political and public interest (Hansen, 2000:57) to force E.ON to reconsider its position. The question is how much responsibility can Greenpeace claim? Did the subsequent media coverage really have the effect that Greenpeace claimed? Hansen (Hansen, 2010) repeatedly coins the term claims-maker in reference to pressure groups suggesting that groups such as Greenpeace take a conservative option in their choice of issues to propel into the spotlight. He suggests that claims-makers choose topics which are already involved in policy agenda or Legislator: Most of the issues on which successful pressure groups campaign and successfully gain media coverage are issues which already have an institutional forum rather than completely new issues which have not been problematised in some form or other before. (Hansen, 2010:53) This would suggest that Policy Agenda influences the pressure groups choice in agenda: as they are more likely to have success in influencing the three agenda setting processes if they are able to frame and elaborate existing issues that are already in the public domain (Hansen, 2010:54). Hansen suggests that Greenpeaces spectacular protest performances are great at creating a visual spectacle; however they are not sufficient at maintaining media visibility in the long term (Hansen, 2010:53). In other words apart from the newsworthiness of the Kingsnorth-Six stunt, the more important factor in agenda setting, was the subsequent trial that kept the Kingsnorth issue visible. Hansen suggests that it is not as simple as just setting the agenda as McCombs suggested, the quantity is not of coverage is irrelevant if the coverage is framed in the wrong way: While an environmental pressure group such as Greenpeace has the ability to secure media coverage for its claims its capacity to influence or control the way its claims are framed and inflected by individual newspapers is more questionable. (Hansen, 2000:71) Hansen looked at a selection of the three traditional types of newspapers from the British press: Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph and Daily Mirror and their respective Sunday editions (Hansen, 2000: 58). Analysing each newspapers output over the period following the Brent Spar protests to determine how the coverage was framed; looking specifically at the gulf between commanding attention for an issue and securing legitimacy (Hansen, 2000:56). He found that individual media exert ideological work upon their differential accessing of sources and their differential choice and promotion of particular lexical terms (e.g. Greenpeace as terrorists, a nuisance, undemocratic) (Hansen, 2010: 57). Hansen implied that Greenpeace media coverage was at the mercy and scrutiny of each outlets ideological allegiance. Although the initial protest is the most visible in terms of photos and iconic moments, in its initial aftermath the majority of press coverage was localised. A search of the Nexis newspaper database shows none of the national newspapers covered the protest in the week following the incident, with the majority of coverage remaing on local television broadcasts and regional newspapers. Between October 15th 2007 and September 10th 2008 there were 42 articles containing the keywords Kingsnorth and Greenpeace. Of these 19 were from The Guardian and The Observer and 10 were from The Independent (both of which could be described as having an environmental bias), hence only 13 were from other UK national newspapers. Applying McCombs quantitative methodology of agenda setting stating that the most prominent public issues are synonymous with the most important public issues (McCombs, 2004:5) One could conclude that Greenpeaces publicity stunt had failed to garner notable national coverage of the Kingsnorth plight compared to its previous successes of gaining the presss attention (e.g. Brent Spa). However out of the mediocre coverage 76% was from UK national newspapers with a history of environmental concern; echoing once again Ruchts notion that the media can potential act as an ally for social movements (Rucht, 2004:55). The Observer notably, exclusively broadcasted Nick Broomfields documentary, which utilised, among others David Gilmour on the soundtrack. Whereas there was a total of 21 national newspaper articles covering the Kingsnorth-Six trial verdict between the 11th and 15th of September 2008; suggesting the mainstream coverage was more interested in the verdict of the court on the Kingsnorth Six; as the result could set a precedent for future environmental policy agenda. Therefore in this case the Kingsnorth-Six stunt was more successful in becoming part of the media agenda in its aftermath. In Hansens Claims-Making in the Brent Star Controversy (2000) He suggests that the Telegraph utilised a negative overlexicalisation of descriptors to describe Greenpeaces actions (Hansen, 2000:62). Throughout the Kingsnorth coverage The Daily Mail, The Mirror and The Express conformed to this convention, often sensationalising the news with doom-mongering extrapolations. The Daily Mail framed the verdict of the case with a negative sensationalist set of descriptors, being highly critical of the ramifications that the case may have for the future of civil order. Whilst being highly critical of Greenpeaces actions the focus was shifted from the agenda of climate change, towards the unlawful nature by which the activists disseminated their message; framing the Greenpeace activists as potential threatening to the public: Green Light to Anarchy; Greenpeace Verdict will Encourage Lawbreakers, Warns Widdecombe (Sears, 2008:12). Hansen observed a similar instance/tactic in the Brent Spar case whilst analysing the framing of civil protest suggesting that The article served a functionlinking together and interpreting a series of vaguely related events or activities as symptoms of a deeper problem or social malaise (Hansen, 2000:61) Emily Highmore: What Greenpeace did was hugely irresponsible (Cited in Sears, 2008:12) So is it OK Now to Kill Gary Glitter? (Littlejohn, 2008:17). So next time some self righteous vegan in cycling shorts is caught smashing up a Range Rover in the name of the polar bears, dont be surprised when they try to use this not guilty verdict as their Get Out Of Jail Free card (Littlejohn, 2008:17). The Mirror NOT LAWFUL.. JUST AWFUL. (Routledge, 2008:29) This is judicial lunacy. It opens the way to all sorts of violence by flat-Earth nutters bent on halting the construction of vital new generating capacity. (Routledge, 2008:29) The Express Judge is an Ass for this Ruling. (Hamilton, 2008:31). The judges direction clearly encourages politically motivated acts of mayhem and is a threat to public order (Hamilton, 2008:31). In all of the above examples the verdict is framed as being giving anarchic powers to Green protesters, sensationalising the potential ramifications. The Greenpeace activists are seen as the Villains disturbing the peace and creating disharmony in the legal system. The Judge and Jury are thus portrayed as the Anti-Heroes being too easily swayed by the glamour of the environmental celebrities paraded by Greenpeace in defence. The Independent For the jury that acquitted the six activists may have done more to frustrate the Governments plans to build coal-fired powered stations than the pressure group has achieved in years. (Lean, 2008:54) The People are Ahead of the Game on Climate Change. (Lean, 2008:54) The Daily Telegraph severe embarrassment to the Government (Clover, 2008:33). So the Greens are Right About Coal (Clover, 2008:33). The Guardian Climb Every Chimney . . .: The Kingsnorth Six Admitted Causing  £30,000 Worth of Damage to a Coal-Fired Power Station Yet a Jury Still Refused to Find Them Guilty. The Verdict Has Left the Governments Energy Plans in the Balance, Says John Vidal, and Given a Huge Boost to Climate Change Protesters. (Vidal, 2008:4). The Maidstone verdict has changed all that and could prove a turning point both for the protest movement and industrial policy (Vidal, 2008:4). If I was E.ON or Owned an Airport, Id be Very, Very Worried: Activists from Other Groups Hail the Kingsnorth Victory. (Van Der Zee, 2008:7) Mel Evans a Climate Camp activist: When you take the arguments to a jury, then they respond in this way because they can see what the reality is. (cited in Van Der Zee, 2008:7) Goldsmith accused the government of a profound lack of imagination when it came to examining alternative energy solutions (Henley, 2008: 6) Beyond all Reasonable Doubt: How Four Witnesses Put the Government in the Dock. (Henley, 2008: 6) The above examples utilise the David versus Goliath analogy or as Vladimir Propp would suggest the Hero character type, suggesting that the case stood as a shift in the

Saturday, January 18, 2020

Leni Riefenstahl: Took advantage of events or swept along Essay

People are swept along by events. Some individuals use events to advantage. This is evident with Leni Riefenstahl as from the earliest accounts of her career it is clear that she was prepared to use others to benefit herself, although while at other times such advancements were not within her control. Historian Steven Bach argues in his book, ‘The Life and work of Leni Riefenstahl’ that Riefenstahl was obsessed with her career and moulding her image. He believes she knew more about Nazism than she would have liked people to believe. Riefenstahl was so driven to be worldly famous and recognised that she didn’t care what the cost. Through the exploitation of people and their money and the use of her beauty and charm Riefenstahl would never have been so artistically successful and innovative. Riefenstahl was willing to do whatever it takes in order to achieve success and accomplished this by exploiting people for their money. In 1923, Riefenstahl acquainted herself with a Jewish banker, Harry Sokal, who manipulated exchange rates. Sokal continually asked Riefenstahl to marry him, but she had no desire to although she acknowledged his wealth and continued the relationship. Riefenstahl used Sokal to finance her dancing career by paying for halls, advertising, and the musicians. Sokal also paid critics to sit in the audience in attempts to gain positive reviews. In order to achieve success Riefenstahl acknowledged that she needed to allow Sokal to finance her and therefore, she took advantage of Sokal when it suited her best. Sokal financed her dance career, but Riefenstahl wanted to get rid of him. Although this would not be the last time she exploits him and his money. Therefore, while Riefenstahl allowed Sokal to finance her movements she was clearly being opportunistic and used events to her advantage. Further evidence of Riefenstahl’s exploitation of people is shown with her clear intentions to succeed within the creative arts industry. After seeing the film, ‘Mountain of Destiny’, Riefenstahl sought out famous film director Arnold Fanck in attempts to establish a career as an actress. Once again financed by Sokal, she travelled to the Dolomite Mountains in order to find Dr. Fanck. Riefenstahl met one of the film’s actors, Luis Trenker, and claimed that â€Å"I’m going to be in your next picture†. Someone who is swept  along by events does not, as Riefenstahl did, plan future actions. Even though she was not in a relationship with Sokal, she further exploited him for his money in order to find Fanck and would again turn to Sokal at times when it was beneficial for advancing her career. Historian Audrey Salkeld offers a different account of events and she doesn’t mention Riefenstahl travelling to the Dolomite Mountains using Sokal’s finance. She says it was a sightseeing tour that turned out to be her â€Å"destiny†. Salkeld suggests that this was Riefenstahl being swept along; opposing the more credible argument that Riefenstahl exploited Sokal in order to find Fanck. Riefenstahl’s willing independence to seek out Fanck and exploit those around her supports her opportunism, however, Riefenstahl’s early relationship with Fanck also acknowledges Salkeld’s claims of being swept along by events. Riefenstahl was not hesitant to exploit tennis pro, Gunther Rahn, who was â€Å"hopelessly in love† with her. She used him to her advantage in arranging the meeting with Fanck that would launch her into the film industry. Fanck instantly admired Riefenstahl’s beauty and, according to Riefenstahl, just three days later he visited her in hospital with a script titled ‘The Holy Mountain, written for the dancer, Leni Riefenstahl’. Once again, Riefenstahl used Sokal to finance the film. Although in Riefenstahl’s defence, Salkald suggests the degree of Fanck’s fascination with her was not within her control. He considered himself her â€Å"Pygmalion† or sculptor, who hoped to make her the â€Å"most famous woman in Germany†. Without Fanck’s dedication to Riefenstahl she would never have been successful in her acting career and would not have learnt how to direct films, thus never being projected to Hitler’s attention. Therefore, in this way Riefenstahl was swept along by events. Some historical perspectives of Riefenstahl, concerning her first project as director on The Blue Light, present her as an opportunist. Riefenstahl exploited scriptwriter Bela Balacs, Fanck as editor and once again Sokal for finance. In order to ensure all creative control was with her, Riefenstahl created Leni-Riefenstahl-Studio-Film GmbH. By making the film through this new company Riefenstahl was ensured all copyrights and credit. Then, while admitting she could not pay him Riefenstahl sought the work from film  theorist Bela Balacs to write the script. Balacs was not resistant to her feminie charm and beauty, which Riefenstahl was never hesitant to use to achieve her goals. When Balacs threatened to sue her over debts, Riefenstahl referred the case to anti-Semitic Julius Streicher. Her letter to the district administrator transferred â€Å"power of attorney in the matter of the claims of the Jew Bela Balacs.† (Bach) This shows that Riefenstahl was opportunistic by playing on the fact that Balacs was Jewish and ensured she would never have to pay him. Therefore, Riefenstahl exploited whomever she could for her own personal gain. Riefenstahl’s willing attendance at a Hitler rally supports her opportunism, discrediting claims that she was swept along by events. At the rally she found Hitler intriguing, describing the experience â€Å"like being struck by lightning† (Bach). While Riefenstahl claimed she â€Å"rejected his racial ideas† she wrote to Hitler just days before an important press event on her film ‘S.O.S Iceberg’. Riefenstahl agreed to meet with Hitler on May 22 at Wilhelmshaven. This excitement to meet with Hitler supports the idea that she saw within the Nazis an opportunity, whether it was based on anti-Semitic ideals or purely artistic. Riefenstahl says that during the meeting Hitler announced â€Å"once we come to power you must make my films.† Riefenstahl claims to have denied the request, but it is unlikely as she fought and seduced to get the film role. Salkeld says that Riefenstahl was being an opportunist as this stage, commenting â€Å"she had the ability to create opportunities for herself, to fashion her own destiny†. Therefore, Riefenstahl was caught up in the exhilaration of the Nazi movement, however, exploited the momentum to establish her position within the Nazi movement for the time when Hitler would take power. Riefenstahl’s self-interested motives continue to be exposed during her direction of the award winning Triumph of the Will. From Riefenstahl’s first meeting with Hitler in 1932, she claimed she could not make his films because she needed â€Å"a very personal relationship with the subject matter. Otherwise she couldn’t be creative†. (Bach) Riefenstahl’s direction of Triumph of the Will would suggest that she did have that â€Å"personal relationship with the subject† which is supported by historian Susan Sontag,  arguing that â€Å"Riefenstahl was glorying Nazism not only from direction of her superiors but from her own personal fondness for the party and their ideals.† This explains why Riefenstahl acted so opportunistically to accept the project months in advance. Walter Traut, production manager on Triumph of the Will, also supports this idea in stating â€Å"Leni Riefenstahl was not ordered†¦ She asked to do this picture.â €  (Bach) Therefore, Riefenstahl used events for her own benefit. Riefenstahl exploited both Hitler and Goebbels in order to receive the huge budgets she demanded which is presented through her film of the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games, Olympia, where she negotiated with Goebbels and the Propaganda Ministry to secure 1.5 million reichsmarks. Due to her bad book keeping and unnecessary expenditure she spent all of the money before production of the film had concluded. In attempts to secure more money, Riefenstahl exploited her ability to go directly to Hitler himself. She â€Å"wept unrestrainedly† to persuade him to give her an additional half a million reichsmarks. Therefore, this shows her using events for her own benefit by exploiting others around her, including the Fuhrer himself. Varying historians’ perspectives present Leni Riefenstahl in many ways. While many regard Riefenstahl a Nazi propagandist, an opportunist, others see Riefenstahl as a female pioneer, responsible for incredible cinematic innovation. Within her life there are many occasions where Riefenstahl showed opportunism in order to advance herself, while at other times such advancements were not within her control.