Adventist Music Guidelines Essays

Adventist Music Guidelines Essays Adventist Music Guidelines Essay Adventist Music Guidelines Essay however, implies that the dead go through that bright shining celestial door to Heaven. Therefore, that song is theologically unsound in the context of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, no matter how poetic the text, or how lovely the melody. As mentioned earlier, the text is indeed more equal than the musical element. However, without the tune, the text could never have the impact that comes from being coupled with good music that adds a new dimension.25 Even though the musical part plays an important role in church music as a whole, the message of the text which should not be overpowered by accompanying elements must take precedence.26 This means that when the congregation sings they should not be excessively caught up with that catchy melody and/or rhythm; the singers should strive to sing out as clearly as possible, so that the text of the hymns or songs is very audible. Therefore, the hymns and songs should be sung in a clear, natural voice. It is not loud singing that is needed, but clear intonation, correct pronunciation, and distinct utterance, so that Gods praise can be sung in clear, soft tones, not with harshness and shrillness that offend the ear.27 Mrs. White mentions that The long drawn-out notes and peculiar soundsare not pleasing to the angel.The songs in which every word is uttered clearly, in a musical tone are the songs that [the angels] join us in singing.28 Singing clearly is not enough, though. The singing should also be done with conviction and understandingthe singers should know and believe what they are singing. God is glorified by songs of praise from a pure heart filled with love and devotion to Him.29 In other words, the singers must not sing for the sake of singing, but they should sing from the heart. Only then will the hymns and songs become worthy of glorifying God. And the nearer the people of God can approach to correct, harmonious singing, the more He is glorified.30 The vocal treatment of the songs and hymns is just as important as the performance of the music. This applies mostly to the special music part of the worship service, when the congregation listens to the music being performed up front. The music itself might glorify God, but so must the singers and/or instrumentalists in their performance. In fact, The nuance which the performer brings to the presentation of a particular piece is a most important contributor to its power as a communicative medium.31 The performers of music in the worship music must be careful not to let themselves be the stars, or get all the limelight. They should keep one thing straight: they are singing (or playing whatever instruments) for the Lord, not performing just to get the attention, praise, and admiration of the congregation. Therefore, they must bring across the right message that they are praising God in their music. It is very important that the right Person is exalted in the church: God, not man himse lf. Since God is the One being glorified, He deserves the attention. Therefore, anything which calls for undue attention to the performer(s) such as excessive, affected bodily movement or inappropriate dress, should find no place in witnessing.32 Also, there should be no theatricality and prideful display when the singers and/or instrumentalists perform. If they perform with the objective of impressing the congregation with their refined abilities, then they are in the wrong place33they should not be playing music in church. Most, if not all, the music guidelines in worship service also apply towards music in evangelism. The songs should contain texts which are compatible with the Biblical teachings and beliefs of the church; the songs should be sung clearly. One point has to be stressed in this context: the performersthe music evangelistsshould bear witness for Christ, not bring glory to themselves. However, one aspect unique to evangelism is the audience. In evangelism, the audience can be considered as the target group; after all, the audience in this case are the people to whom the gospel message is directed. Therefore, it is vitally important to consider the audience as a whole in the choice of music. Factors like the general age-groups and religious backgrounds should be examined. The point is to identify the audience. Evangelism is like a bridge in some ways. The Christians are reaching out to the believers with the gospel message. Therefore, in evangelism the appropriate music is like an effective bridge, because the music then becomes a proper evangelistic tool. However, no matter who the audience is, the music must be honest and sincere. It must bemusic which rings true to itself. There must be no falseness and pretense about it.34 Simply said, the music must tell of the gospel message in a clear, unambiguous way. In this section about evangelism, the focus will be on youth as the audience. In youth evangelism, evangelists have chosen certain musical idioms which the youth can relate to. One of these musical idioms is rhythm, or better known as the beat. Most musical scholars agree that music is a combination of three things: melody, harmony, and rhythm. To be complete, the music needs to keep in equilibrium all the three components; for example, the beat should not dominate to the extent of overpowering the tune and the lyrics of the song.35 Therefore, in the use of youth-related musical idioms like the strong sense of beat, there must be a balance between the main tune of the song and its other componentsrhythm and harmony. It is not wrong to use carefully selected contemporary music in evangelism, agrees Mr. Staples, a missionary, as long as the music does not bear too much resemblance to secular musiccomplete with the overtones of violence, drugs, and sex.36 However, whatever the music chosen for evangelism, the guidelines must still apply, because The desire to reachyouth where they are with the gospel of Christ leads to the use of certain questionable musical idioms.37 These questionable musical idioms should be carefully examined with the music guidelines to church music as the standards. As a matter of fact, Mrs. White had something prophetic to say back in l900 when she heard certain kinds of music to which she was against. She wrote: Every uncouth thing will be demonstrated. There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The sense of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions. And this is called the moving of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit never reveals itself in such methods, in such a bedlam of noise.38 Even though it is fine to use selected contemporary music elements, the music evangelists must be careful not be overly occupied in the music as to the extent of breaking the rules (i.e. guidelines) in the effort to evangelize. In youth evangelism, there should be no compromise of standards, in particular, the standards of church music. Never compromise high principles of dignity and excellence in efforts to reach people where they are.39 In their evangelistic efforts the evangelists are not follow the ways of the world.40 Mrs. White said that instead of bringing the truth to a low level in order to obtain converts, they should seek to bring the sinful corrupted up to the high standard of the law of God.41 Music has been around for ages. It has also been used in the church for a good period of time; and in more ways than one, it has been (and no doubt will be) an important part of the church. However, times have been (and still are) changing, therefore the context and circumstances of church music have not remained stagnant. But the important thing to remember is that the guidelines must be kept in sight so that the ultimate goal of the Christian of glorifying and praising God is not blurred through the years. Since music is a medium in which the blending of the best and the worst can be done more subtly than through any other media form,42 the christians will have to be extra careful in the selection of music for church use. In conclusion, Dr. Lickey, a church musician, has this to say about judging the music for church use: Responsible Christians would not seek to see how close to the edge of purity they could get but would rather turn their backs to the world.43

A Brief Overview of Émile Durkheims Role in Sociology

A Brief Overview of Émile Durkheim's Role in Sociology Who was Émile Durkheim? He was a famous French philosopher and sociologist known as the father of the French school of sociology for his methodology combining empirical research with sociological theory. The following outlines his life and career and his published works. Early Life and Education Émile Durkheim (1858–1917) was born in Épinal, France, on April 15, 1858, to a devout French Jewish family. His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather had all been rabbis, and it was assumed that he would follow their lead when they enrolled him in a rabbinical school. However, at an early age, he decided not to follow in his familys footsteps and switched schools after realizing that he preferred to study religion from an agnostic standpoint as opposed to being indoctrinated. In 1879, his good grades got him into the École Normale Supà ©rieure (ENS), a well-regarded graduate school in Paris. Career and Later Life Durkheim became interested in a scientific approach to society very early on in his career, which meant the first of many conflicts with the French academic system- which had no social science curriculum at the time. Durkheim found humanistic studies uninteresting, turning his attention from psychology and philosophy to ethics and eventually, sociology. He graduated with a degree in philosophy in 1882. Durkheims views could not get him a major academic appointment in Paris, so from 1882 to 1887 he taught philosophy at several provincial schools. In 1885 he left for Germany, where he studied sociology for two years. Durkheims period in Germany resulted in the publication of numerous articles on German social science and philosophy, which gained recognition in France and earned him a teaching appointment at the University of Bordeaux in 1887. This was an important sign of the change of times and the growing importance and recognition of the social sciences. From this position, Durkheim helped reform the French school system and introduced the study of social science in its curriculum. Also in 1887, Durkheim married Louise Dreyfus, with whom he later had two children. In 1893, Durkheim published his first major work, The Division of Labor in Society, in which he introduced the concept of anomie, or the breakdown of the influence of social norms on individuals within a society. In 1895, he published The Rules of Sociological Method, his second major work, which was a manifesto stating what sociology is and how it ought to be done. In 1897, he published his third major work, Suicide: A Study in Sociology, a case study exploring the differing suicide rates among Protestants and Catholics and arguing that stronger social control among Catholics results in lower suicide rates. By 1902, Durkheim had finally achieved his goal of attaining a prominent position in Paris when he became the chair of education at the Sorbonne. Durkheim also served as an advisor to the Ministry of Education. In 1912, he published his last major work, The Elementary Forms of The Religious Life, a book that analyzes religion as a social phenomenon. Émile Durkheim died of a stroke in Paris on November 15, 1917, and is buried in the citys Montparnasse Cemetery.

The peacekeeping mission of the united nations in Democratic Republic Research Paper

The peacekeeping mission of the united nations in Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda - Research Paper Example Democratic Republic of Congo is a large country. It is also the home for the prestigious rain forest, rare species of the world and valuable minerals as well as natural resources. However, Congo is one of the poorest countries and most chaotic on the planet. The unrest in the country is estimated to have claimed lives of millions in the past decade (Mays 11). The country lacks necessities like electricity, medical facilities, law, and order in most of its parts. Mass rape and human brutality have been a common phenomenon in these parts of the country. In the first year after of independence of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mobutu Sese Seko seized the country and declared himself as the president (Youtube). He ruled the country for five years. Several events occurred in the country that led to the deterioration of Mobutu’s government. First, the army of the country mutinied, the governor of Katanga attempted a coup, and the prime minister of the country died (Sitkwoski 87). All these events led to the United Nations peacekeeping mission respond to restore order in the country. When Kabila took over as the president, he tried reforms that saw a relative peace prevail in the country for about two years. Kabila was, however, weakened by domestic protests, international critics of his poor tyrannical governance and the poor economic drive of the country (Mays 12). The soldiers and the military defense of the country deployed and rioted to protest against the poor leadership of Kabila. Kabila, instead, enforced his rule in a dictatorial way, a process that led to a sharp schism of the country into three segments. One of his bodyguards allegedly assassinated him and the act led to the incision of the United Nations militia force into the country (Tull 18). Upon its establishment, the United Nations organization authorized deployment of military liaison from all other

Professional Sports Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Professional Sports - Essay Example The analysis of the advertising campaign made it evident that NHL’s â€Å"Inside the Warrior† campaign is an example of exploring the crisis masculinity in the field of sports. The articles made it evident that without the presence of a masculine character in sports, the success of that is a cause of concern. In the similar milieu, the NHL’s success will be in doubt for public consumption, without the presence of a masculine figure. A number of scholars have argued that the presence of masculine character is vital in every field so as to fulfill the objectives and serve the purpose. In the words of Connell, 2005; Edwards, 2006; Messner, 1992, â€Å"MacInnes and other scholars within sociological and cultural studies suggest that men, both individually and collectively, are experiencing a displacement of male power/privilege regarding their customary roles in institutions such as politics, employment, education, and family.† Despite several literature debat es pertaining to the veracity, scenery, and potential effects of a crisis of masculinity remain unresolved. Whannel (1999) suggests, â€Å"Whether or not there is a crisis, there certainly is a lot of talk of one† (p. 254). In the next half of the study, a critique of the article that describes the impact of masculinity crisis in the field of sports will be done. CRITIQUE At the outset, I would like to throw light on the fact that sport is medium that provides man to prove his masculinity. I would not compare the levels to which different sports offer different levels of masculinity, but what I would like to shed light upon is the role played by hockey in showcasing one’s masculinity or the other way where an individual gets the opportunity to reflect upon his masculine ability. I agree with the thoughts put forward in the article that the visual representation in the form of looks and appearance are extremely important. As mentioned in the article that â€Å"The visu al representations of men circulated by the media, including those available through advertising and marketing campaigns, provide benchmarks of masculinity against which some men measure themselves† clearly exemplifies the statement made above is true. However, the role of the promotional media is important as they are the one who are responsible for creating the image of the sports person. On the contrary a good image always does not resemble a masculine image and the question of masculine image is also a subject of debate among the scholars and practitioners around the world. Arguably, the various forms of masculinity portrayed through advertising can contribute to social constructions of the crisis of masculinity. According to my opinion masculinity can be conceptualized in a number of forms and one of forms which I believe is the sportsperson’s ability to appeal to the audience. Hence I agree to the articles where it mentions masculinity â€Å"involves persuasion o f the greater part of the population, particularly through the media, and the organization of social institutions in ways that appear ‘

Effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

Effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Lynnette Chan Do Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) Negatively Affect Memory? Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most common antidepressants prescribed to treat moderate to severe depression. SSRIs increase serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) levels in the brain by blocking serotonin reuptake. Compared to other antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), SSRIs are more selective and have fewer side effects. In addition to affecting emotional moods, SSRIs can also affect food and sex related behaviors, resulting in side effects such as weight gain and reduced sexual drive (Mayo Clinic). However, recent studies indicate that serotonin also plays a â€Å"significant role in learning and memory† (Buhot, Martin, Segu 210). Given serotonin’s lack of specialized function, can SSRIs negatively affect memory function as a side effect? To answer this question, this paper will establish the association between SSRIs and serotonin levels, and then examine the relationship between SSRI use and impaired or improved memory. Since depression has been linked to a shortage of serotonin neurotransmissions, antidepressants should increase 5-HT levels. But in a comprehensive review on the serotonergic and noradrenergic systems of the hippocampus, R. Mongeau, P. Blier, and C. de Montigny found that successful SSRI treatments show both an increase and decrease of 5-HT neurotransmissions (178). This finding is unusual because SSRIs inhibit 5-HT reuptake to increase 5-HT levels and should not result in decreased 5-HT neurotransmissions. As decreased 5-HT levels do appear in successful treatments utilizing SSRIs, there must be additional factors involved in mood elevation within the serotonergic system. Regardless of the exact mechanism that allow SSRIs to treat depressive symptoms, SSRIs do increase and decrease 5-HT neurotransmissions in the brain. While the exact mechanism of how 5-HT levels affect mood remains unclear, SSRI use and changes in 5-HT levels have been linked to memory impairment. In a study investigating the role of serotonin in memory impairment, Marie-Christine Buhot, Stephanie Martin, and Louis Segu found that serotonergic activity in the brain affects memory and learning differently depending on the stimulation or inhibition of different 5-HT receptor subtypes. This study found that stimulation of the 5-HT2A/2C or 5-HT4 receptor subtypes, or inhibition of the 5-HT1A or 5-HT3 or 5-HT1B receptor subtypes improved memory and learning in high-cognitive activities (210). 5-HT receptor subtypes are differentiated by their relative distributions in the brain and their cellular locations, differentiations that explain the various effects of 5-HT receptor subtypes. For example, the 5-HT1A receptor subtype is largely concentrated in the hippocampus and interacts with the noradrenergic, dopaminergic, and GABAergic syste ms (Buhot, Martin, Segu 214). As a result, stimulating 5-HT1A receptors impairs memory. The Buhot study confirms that serotonin affects memory function and is dependent on the stimulation or inhibition of different 5-HT receptor types or subtypes. The Buhot study examined the neurotransmitter mechanisms of serotonin and memory, but it did not examine the effect of specific SSRI antidepressants on memory. In a study on the effect of short-term use of SSRIs on cognitive brain function, Jeroen A. J. Schmitt, Monique J. Kruzinga, and Wim J. Riedel found that the positive and negative effects SSRIs have on memory is caused by interactions with external neurotransmitter systems. The study conducted tests with sertraline and paroxetine, the two â€Å"most potent inhibitors of serotonin reuptake† available at the time of the study (Schmitt, Kruzinga, Riedel 173). They found that paroxetine contributed to long-term memory impairment, an effect attributed to paroxetine’s additional anticholinergic properties. On the other hand, sertraline only slightly improved verbal fluency, an effect attributed to sertraline’s additional dopaminergic effects. Although this study agrees with the Buhot study that additional neurot ransmitter interactions in serotonergic pathways contribute or prevent memory impairment, the Buhot study attributes memory functions to serotonin while the Schmitt study does not. Both the Buhot and Schmitt studies argue that SSRIs influence memory, but the two studies disagree on the mechanism that causes memory improvement and impairment. In a study examining the short-term use of the SSRI citalopram and the SNRI (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) reboxetine and their effect emotional memory and perception, Catherine J. Harmer, Nicholas C. Shelley, Philip J. Cowen, and Guy M. Goodwin found that both citalopram and reboxetine decreased the memory and perception of negative emotions in comparison to positive emotion. Additionally, citalopram use lowered startle responses to displays of negative emotion. Unlike the Buhot and Schmitt study, this study claims that SSRI’s side effect on emotional memory and perception is actually the mechanism that makes SSRIs effective antidepressants. Perhaps SSRIs help strengthen memories of positive emotions with increased 5-HT concentrations and weaken memories of negative emotions with decreased 5-HT concen trations at different 5-HT receptor subtypes to contribute to mood elevation and regulation. SSRIs have a recognized role in memory and learning. The Buhot study argues that memory can be strengthened or weakened depending on the inhibition or stimulation of different 5-HT receptor subtypes, characterized by location and neurotransmitter pathways. On the other hand, the Schmitt study argues that SSRIs effect on memory is not caused by 5-HT levels, but by the additional effects of other neurotransmitter systems. In contrast, the Harmer study argues that the strengthening and weakening of emotional memory and perception contributes to the antidepressant properties of SSRIs. In conclusion, SSRIs can both impair and improve memory, depending on the SSRI type and their interactions with 5-HT receptor subtypes and other neurotransmitter pathways. SSRIs have been confirmed to affect memory and cognitive function, but further research is required to determine the exact mechanism of how different SSRIs affect neurotransmitters and mood. Research can explore the degree of memory impairment caused by SSRIs, and examine the neurotransmitter systems that interact most with the serotonergic system to better define neurotransmitter function. Future research can also focus on developing new antidepressants by exploring the neurotransmission systems that interact with SSRIs. Hopefully, a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms of memory and the role of neurotransmitters can also provide better insight on neurodegenerative disorders that affect memory, such as Alzheimers disease. Works Cited Buhot, Marie-Christine, Stà ©phanie Martin, and Louis Segu. Role of Serotonin in Memory Impairment. Annals of Medicine 32.3 (2000): 210-21. Informa Healthcare. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. http://informahealthcare.com/doi/abs/10.3109/07853890008998828>. Harmer, Catherine J., Nicholas C. Shelley, Philip J. Cowen, and Guy M. Goodwin. Increased Positive Versus Negative Affective Perception and Memory in Healthy Volunteers Following Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibition. American Journal of Psychiatry 161.7 (2004): 1256-263. American Journal of Psychiatry. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/appi.ajp.161.7.1256>. Mayo Clinic. Depression (major Depressive Disorder). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). January 1, 2015. Accessed March 18, 2015. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/art-20044825. Mongeau, R., P. Blier, and C. De Montigny. The Serotonergic and Noradrenergic Systems of the Hippocampus: Their Interactions and the Effects of Antidepressant Treatments. Brain Research Reviews 23.3 (1997): 145-95. Science Direct. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165017396000173>. Schmitt, Jeroen A. J., Monique J. Kruizinga, and Wim J. Riedel. Non-serotonergic Pharmacological Profiles and Associated Cognitive Effects of Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Journal of Psychopharmacology 15.3 (2001): 173-79. Sage Journals. Web. 26 Feb. 2015. http://jop.sagepub.com/content/15/3/173.short>.

Organic food sector

This document is an information report providing a micro and macro environmental analysis of the organic industry. It gives specific attention to the European and German market and to the retail industry in particular. A brief introduction, also focusing on the reasons and criteria for the selection of such sector, will be followed by an assessment of the aspects at the micro and macro level that affect the players operating in it. To facilitate the analysis I will pretend that the writer of the following report is a manager operating in the broader food industry.Since we operate in the food retail industry, both nationally (Germany) and on the European level, I suggest, as sales director of this company, to consider entering the organic branch, since it has been growing steadily in the last 2 decades. Organic farming can be regarded as method of production that gives particular attention to environmental protection and animal welfare, thus avoiding the adoption of synthetic chemical means and the production of genetically modified organisms. The industry is highly regulated, requiring producers to acquire special certification to sell goods as organic within given borders.The market has been growing steadily, as suggested above, and is still doing so despite the economic and financial crisis; it grew globally by more than 25 per cent since the start of the global crisis between 2008 and 2011. According to the latest data (Fill and ‘FOAM, 2013), 37. Million hectares of agricultural land are nowadays organic (they were 11 million only in 1999) and 1. 8 million producers world-wide are reported (from 252 thousand in 2000). The global sales have also seen a dramatic increase, climbing by almost 200% in the last 10 years.Although this industry accounts only for 1-2% of the total food production globally, almost 10% of the total food sales share is covered by it. Fig 1 . Organic agricultural land by region, 1999-2010 Despite the number of producers and retaile rs, as I will elucidate later in this report, has been increasing year after year in order to cover the high demand for this kind of rodents (mostly driven by concerns about private health on one hand and the global environment on the other), I believe there are still good opportunities for ambitious firms to enter – at any point of the supply chain – this relatively new and steadily expanding market. . Macro environmental analysis The environment where firms operate includes several forces that affect their activity, from the acquisition of resources, through the process of transformation of such input, and finally to the creation of an output. The more external forces (general or contextual, such as political, cultural, social and legal) are the ones influencing the rim in a more general way, as opposed to the operational ones, which affect the business on a daily basis (Ian and Christ, 2006).In this part I will refer to the external range of influences and observe h ow these can have an impact on the organic industry. As said, the focus will be on the European market and on Germany, which represents the biggest player in the E area and the second largest globally. Selection of factors To carry out this task I have asked my team of analysts to perform a Pestle analysis, which takes into account political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, legal and environmental aspects.It is usually performed by almost every major and minor organization in order to get an overview of the whole scenario of a particular industry or branches of it. Of course the elements considered vary in importance based on the industry and the goods involved. In the organic sector's case, the socio-cultural, political and legal aspects are particularly crucial and the report will give a particular attention to these; in addition, other factors not (directly) included in Pestle but that it is important to mention when analyzing this particular industry, are the demographi c and regulatory ones.Environmental issues also represent a major concern. 2. 1 Specific macro-factor analysis 2. 1. 1 Political factors These basically represent to what extent the government (local, national or supra- national) intervenes in a particular industry. Demand for bio products and the growing popularity of organic farming within Europe has fostered the development and implementation – through the European Commission, The EX. Council and the EX. Parliament – of official rules, programmed and plans.This level of action is closely related to the regulatory one, which will be more thoroughly addressed in the section following this one. The most relevant document to mention in this part is the â€Å"European action plan for organic food and farming†, which comprises 21 initiatives in order to develop the market and get better standards by increasing transparency, reliability, efficacy and consumers' trust. Also at the national level many governments have been providing their plans and policies in order to support the growth and efficiency of the organic industry.In Germany, for instance, the range of governmental assistance in the last decade has increased significantly both through the Federal Government and the Leander; the measures are directed both to organic agriculture and to the whole supply chain (Nibbler and Kenneth, 2007). Environmental objectives, as well as the opportunity for rural development, are the main goals of the government's financial, legal and regulatory support for operators dealing in this industry. 2. 1. 2 Legal and regulatory factors The political intervention in the industry is, as discussed, very present and fundamental for its growth.Although it might benefit the overall sector, the high level of laws and regulations represent nonetheless a potential barrier for new entrants. In 2009 the EX. introduced new regulations regarding the production, control and babbling of organic goods. These put an ever bi gger attention to environmental, animal and consumer protection and health. For instance, food can be sold as organic only if 95% of its ingredients derive from organic agriculture and processing. Closed cycles (using internal resources) are favored to open cycles; external resources should be limited to natural or naturally obtained materials.Only in exceptional cases, thoroughly evaluated by the European Commission, chemical synthetic resources may be allowed if other suitable alternatives are not available. 2. 1. 3 Economic factors Europe has, according to the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture, 25% of the world's organic farmland, but it represents almost half of the global revenue within organic industry (the American market is still the world's largest). Sales of organic products were approximately 21. 5 billion Euros in 2011 (Fill, 2013).The largest market for organic products is Germany, with almost 7 billion Euros (Nielsen and Braun, 2013), followed by the I-J (3 bil lion Euros), France and Italy (both 2 billion Euros). Fig 2. Sales growth of German market in 2012 The German market grew by 6% in 2012 up to 7. 04 billion Euros, showing a stable Roth and representing 3. 9% of the entire food market; the increase in the previous year had been even higher (9%), influenced by several food scandals that drove more and more consumers from conventional food to bio products.Fig 3. Sales growth from 2000 to 2012 Fig 4. Organic food sales in Germany (2012) 2. 1. 4 Socio-cultural factors (and demographic ones) A growing number of people are nowadays more informed, health- and environment- conscious than ever; they are thus willing to spend more on healthy natural foods, since there is widespread public belief that organic food is much safer, more atrocious, and environmental friendlier than conventional food.In any case it is important to note that â€Å"regardless of whether any measurable health benefits exist from consumption of organic produce, the pub lic perception of health gains associated with organic produce is undoubtedly influenced by statements that are not (yet) able to be supported by scientific evidence. † (Givens, 2008).Demography also plays a very important role in an increasingly aging Europe; in Germany (one of the countries with the lowest birth rate), the typical heavy consumer of this kind of rodents is in his mid ass (thus belonging to the generation of the forerunners of the ecological movement in this country) and with a good income level. Young consumers, such as students and entry level workers, tend to opt for more affordable options. The market is slowly opening to 30+ customers, mostly young professionals fond of a healthy and dynamic life-style. . Micro environmental analysis This section of the report will mainly focus on Porter's â€Å"5 forces analysis†, concentrating the analysis on those factors that can more directly influence the daily activities of a firm operating in the organic in dustry, affecting its ability to satisfy its customers and make a profit. As the producers' scenario is particularly fragmented, the study will give particular attention to the German retail industry and often assume the perspective of the five largest specialist retail chains operating in it.Three forces relate to ‘horizontal' competition, such as the threat of substitute products or services, the threat of established rivals, and the threat of new entrants; the two remaining forces represent ‘vertical' competition: the bargaining power of suppliers and the one of customers. . 1 Threat of established rivals (intensity of competitive rivalry) In Germany organic products are sold as follows: 35% in traditional supermarkets (around 40. 00 shops) 23% in specialist shops (around 2000 shops; there are 17 organic supermarket chains, the 5 biggest are Lunar, Vital, Den's Bio, Basic and Redford). 19% in discounts supermarkets (more than 10. 000 shops) Fig 5. Number of specialize d organic outlets in Germany (2008) It is therefore clear that, despite being this sector quite young, the number of actors operating in it is very high; this great level of rivalry determines a high threat to profits.It is furthermore important to note that these operators vary consistently in cost structures and have different levels of exit barriers; bigger, traditional retailers/ wholesalers (such as Metro, Rowe and Deeds) have an advantage in terms of economies of scale, although they will have to face stronger exit barriers, considering the amount of their investments. According to recent research (Bifocal, 2010), the further development of the specialized organic market sector will see a decrease in terms of market share in favor of traditional supermarkets; nevertheless, the overall turnover will increase.This is mainly due to the fact that specialized retailers can provide a wider range of products, a more regular supply, competent staff and the availability of non-foods it ems as well. 3. 2 Threat of new entrants The highest threat is represented by traditional supermarkets with re-branding strategies towards the organic sector, since completely new entrants would face and be discouraged by very strong entry barriers in terms of capital requirements, economies of scale, amount of regulations, experience curve and access to key inputs. The resulting threat to profits can therefore be regarded as medium. 3.Threat of substitute products There are not many direct substitutes for organic food and as long as a large portion of the public will be convinced that it is safer, healthier, more nutritious and even tastier than conventional one, its higher prices will be Justified and the branch will maintain if not increase the market share. Nonetheless, local farmers' markets provide a good alternative for individuals fond of food with no pesticides and with a low environmental impact; even so, their prices are not rarely higher than the ones offered in supermar kets (even if specialized) and their presence on the territory is ere scarce.There are some products and services that could be listed as indirect substitutes, since they also help satisfy the desire of a healthier and CEO-friendly life- style. Fitness centers, wellness programs and sustainable tourism are Just some of these. Despite this, it is important to stress the fact that nutrition is usually regarded as the most crucial factor when it comes to choices taken by consumers in order to improve their personal health and reduce the negative effects on the environment.The resulting level of threat to profits from substitute products can again be regarded as medium. 3. Bargaining power of buyers Consumers' power in this industry is mostly influenced by the following factors: Price sensitivity Buyers are ready to spend more than on conventional food provided that this is justified by higher levels of quality, freshness, taste and the certainty (provided by certificates and labels) th at the production and packaging of goods respect specific standards and norms.Despite this general observation, discount supermarkets have been lately offering similar products to the one displayed in specialized chains for sensibly lower prices, alerting customers that a similar quality can be obtained also or half of the usual price. Price sensitivity is therefore increasing. Information availability This kind of consumer is usually extremely educated and informed and consequently expects a high level of transparency, as well as being well aware of the different alternatives available in order to satisfy his demand.Degree of dependency upon existing channels of distribution Buyers have been increasingly attracted by the offers displayed in the Internet through more or less specialized organic e-shops. This could represent a potential threat (as well as an opportunity for further investment), although most consumers till rely on traditional channels, offering, among other services, the availability of competent and specialized staff.Availability of substitute products See above The resulting level of threat from this force can be regarded as medium to high. 3. 5 Bargaining power of suppliers Contrarily to the US market, where suppliers are extremely concentrated (with local farmers often signing contracts with big corporations) and represent the real dominant power in the organic industry, in Europe they are still very fragmented.They do not represent a big threat for the retail industry. It is furthermore not likely for suppliers to tend towards forward vertical integration. The resulting level of threat from this force can be regarded as low to medium The above mentioned observations can be summarized in the following table, which underlines the micro environmental factors within the organic (retail) industry and their level of threat. Fig 6. Porter's five forces summary 4.Further relevant specific market issues: recent developments in the target market Res earchers Budded and Ham (2011) observe that the traditional parameters necessary to define the usual buyer of organic products (e. . Level of income and education, age, as indicated above), have almost completely lost their previous importance in the last few years; the authors have thus come to the conclusion that marketing campaigns should concentrate on health-orientated specific needs, underlining the naturalness of goods and their lacking of chemically produced ingredients.

Jane Cazneau Essay

Hudson posits a Native American grandmother, although there is no solid evidence of this. Her first marriage apparently dissolved, but there is no divorce record. She may or may not have had an affair with Aaron Burr, an early mentor. Hudson’s most significant claim is that Jane Storm is the journalist who coined the phrase â€Å"manifest destiny† (pp. 60-62). Hudson argues that later historians have simply assumed that John O’Sullivan wrote the Democratic Review’s many unsigned editorials. But Hudson’s computer analysis (Appendix B) of O’Sullivan’s and Storm’s signed works shows that the grammatical errors in the famous editorial that first contained the phrase exhibit a much closer correlation with those commonly made by Storm than with those made by O’Sullivan. What is certain is that she migrated to pre-revolutionary Texas and speculated in land grants and immigration schemes. Writing under the pen name â€Å"Montgomery† (later, â€Å"Cora Montgomery†), Storm became a regular correspondent of Moses Y. Beach’s New York Sun. When war broke out, Storm accompanied Beach and his daughter on a covert peace mission to Mexico in late 1846. The Beach mission has long been clouded with uncertainty about its purposes and accomplishments, and so Storm’s role in it is similarly in doubt. Nonetheless, she was clearly an important element, as neither of the Beaches knew Spanish and President James K. Polk had a private interview with her after her return. After the war, Storm continued to favor U. S. xpansion into Latin America and the Caribbean, especially through annexation. Although Hudson maintains that Storm was not a strong proponent of â€Å"All Mexico† during the U. S. -Mexican War, some have credited her with leading the movement. She had contact with Cuban, Mexican, and Nicaraguan filibustering groups. She married diplomat Williams L. Cazneau in 1849 after a long acquaintance but still worked as a journalist for numerous publications, wrote about her travels, and r emained active in Democratic Party politics. She secured a diplomatic mission to the Dominican Republic for her husband and worked with him to gain U. S. access to Samana Bay. Jane Storm Cazneau died in a shipwreck during a storm at sea in 1878. Many questions about her activities and the extent of her influence remain unanswered. Barring the emergence of new documentary collections, Hudson’s biography is the most complete picture of her life we are likely to have. As such it is a useful addition to the literature on nineteenth-century U. S. expansionism.