Democracy and the news Essay

This paper will look at the different ways the media reflects and affects society by examining the various relationships that exists between the media, the state and the citizens. It will firstly define key terms, allowing for controversial words to have a specific and continuing definition throughout the paper. Three key ideas, centering around the relationships between the media and the state, will make up the major part of this paper; namely how the media affects the state, how the state affects the media and failed attempts by the media to affect the state. Examples of each concept being discussed will be included, showing the notion in practice. Relationships between the media and citizens will also be examined and discussed, again using examples to show each in action. The relationship between the media and citizens will be discussed, examining the ability of the media to influence the public, the public’s ability to influence the media and failed attempts of the media t o influence the public. The conclusion of this paper will detail the role of the media within society, how it operates and different functions it both performs, and attempts to perform. The media is a constantly changing medium. It includes television, newspapers, magazines, journals, radio, cinema, advertisements, and interactive multi-media. It can also include the Internet, video games, mobile phones and computers ( O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2002 ). No undisputable definition of the term ‘media’ exists, however, for the purpose of this paper the following definition given by O’Shaughnessy and Stadler ( 2002 ), will be understood as conclusive. The media are technologically developed and economically profitable forms of human communication, held either in public or private ownership, which can transmit information and entertainment across time and space to large groups of people ( O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2002; Pg 4 ). A democracy is † the notion that power and authority is vested in the people,  Ã¢â‚¬  ( Singleton et al, 2000; Pg 4 ). In Australia, citizens vote for representatives that make up the parliament, and the party holding the majority form Government. Government operates at three levels; Commonwealth, state and local. Parliamentary members are held accountable and responsible for their actions, and numerous institutions designed to check and balance power exists to ensure this occurs. Citizen is defined in The Macquarie Dictionary ( 1994 ) as being â€Å"a member, native or naturalized, of a state or nation, † ( Pg 187 ) and will adopt this definition throughout this paper. The print and electronic media’s ability to broadcast information both quickly and widely across society allows the media to successfully enact the role of ‘ public watchdog ‘ ( Wheeler, 1997; Pg 238 ). The media feeds citizens information. The public is informed of what occurs around them and abroad, who their politicians are, how they look and sound and important issues being suggested, debated and implemented within government. † Politician – journalist relationships are inherently collusive. Each needs the other to achieve their objectives † ( Franklin 1998 ). Politicians require the services of journalists for their messages to reach the general public and journalists need politicians in order to cover politics ( Ward 2002 ). The relationship between the state and the mass media can quickly become vulnerable. The media holds a particular power, which can see it become an agenda setter for society. Not only politicians realise the importance of the media as a platform from which to speak. Pressure groups seek out the media in order to publicize their objectives. Those that successfully use the media acquire a community status, which has the potential to morph into a political status, from which opposition to political ideals, occurrences or similar can be passed on to citizens. Examples of such groups include Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace and Amnesty. These groups can become oppositional spokesmen to government policy, sources of information and social commentators on legislation or policy ( Negrine, 1989; Pg 163 ). The media uses these groups as an official  authority, as they are recognized and respected organisations within the greater community, a status gained through use of the media itself. Examples exist where journalists can be seen as ‘ propaganda agents ‘ for politicians. The term ‘ manufacturing consent ‘ is described by Robinson ( 2002 ) as the † power of the government to set the news media agendas, † ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 12 ). Entman ( 1991 ), examines an example of this with two incidents from the 1980’s. The media’s contradictory handling of two aircraft shoot-downs, the Korean Airline and Iran Air, despite case similarities, proved the presence of political persuasiveness. Both resulted in a large loss of civilian life, and both were the result of military mistakes. The Iran Air shoot-down for which the US was answerable, was described † in terms of a technical failure, † ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 13 ). The Korean Airline shoot-down, effected by the USSR, was † framed as a moral outrage, † ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 13 ). The US media covered these two incidents as instructed to by US administrations and, says Entman ( 1991 ), chose to neither challenge nor criticize the facts presented to them by the state ( Robinson, 2002 ). The combination of Western governments intervening during humanitarian crises, and the considerable media attention given to dire circumstances abroad, saw the relationship between the media and the state linked as contributing factors, namely with the media encouraging the state to intervene ( Robinson, 2002 ). This trend became known as the ‘ CNN effect ‘ ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 1 ). Media coverage was proclaimed to influence policy-makers, resulting as † either a necessary or sufficient factor in producing a particular outcome, † ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 37 ). The ‘ CNN effect ‘ ( Robinson, 2002 ) adheres to the fact that definitive policy decisions lie with the policy makers, but media coverage can encourage policy makers to see that a decision is attained ( Robinson, 2002 ). An example of media coverage contributing to humanitarian intervention is that which became known as ‘ Operation Deliberate Force ‘, an action led progressively by the US into Bosnia between 1992 and 1995. The war in Bosnia was the biggest conflict resulting from the dissolution of the Federal  Republic of Yugoslavia ( FRY ). Bosnia broke away from the undermined FRY and fighting began in 1991 between Bosnian government forces on one hand, and Bosnian Serb nationalists and Yugoslav army on the other. The latter two intent on creating ‘ethnically pure ‘ regions in Bosnia ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 73 ). Pressure mounted in the US for intervention and as the war continued, US involvement increased, culminating in 1995 when the US became directly involved with the Bosnia war. This occurred after the 1994 Sarajevo market place bombing. The media expelled a † do something † ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 82 ) attitude and it came at a time when US policy-makers were unsure of just how much force they should exude. Holbrooke ( 1999 ) believes a CNN effect ultimately persuaded the US to act. The eventual response that came from the US was a threatened use of massive force, should the Serb nationalists fail to cease actions against civilians. † The reason the West finally, belatedly intervened was heavily related to news media coverage, † ( Holbrooke, 1999; Pg 20 ). Media influence, however, cannot entirely be held responsible for the US intervention. Avoidance of a humiliating UN withdrawal, along with the credibility and competence of the US can also be considered contributing factors. ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 85 ) The media can also attempt to set an agenda and fail. When politicians are certain of their policy, media coverage can have virtually no influence in encouraging a policy change ( Robinson, 2002 ). The war in Kosovo, also a result of the FRY dissolution, proved an area of much controversy between US administrations and the media. Albanian Kosovars, disheartened with a lack of international support, supported a Kosovo Liberation Army ( KLA ). KLA attacks on Serb forces were answered with considerable force, which included civilian targets ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 94 ). Two contingency plans were decided upon; the deployment of ground troops, and the use of air strikes, and were to go ahead should Serb forces continue attacks against Albanian civilians. US air strikes prevailed, but appeared to have little affect on the Serbian military. The US media became critical of the actions undertaken, and it became clear that the general community consensus lent toward a group campaign into Kosovo. It was concluded by Robinson, ( 2002 ) that although a large section of media coverage in the US encouraged the deployment of ground troops, it added little pressure on the government to  do so ( Robinson, 2002 ). Not all media outlets chose to criticize the policy-makers however, and a minority were seen supporting air attacks, ( Robinson, 2002; Pg 109 ). This example shows that although a CNN effect was clearly present, it failed in its attempt to influence policy change. Two theories suggest ways of understanding the relationship between the media and society. Firstly, it is suggested † the media reflect the realities, values, and norms of a society. †¦ The media act as a mirror of society ( O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2002; Pg 28 ). Secondly, it can be said that † the media affect how people think, believe, and behave. The media construct our values for us and have a direct effect on our actions † ( O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2002 ). Both theories will be discussed. The media role includes both identifying issues of public concern, as well as acting as check on the abuse of power, this generally being political power. Journalists describe society to itself. They seek truth. They convey  information, ideas and opinions †¦ They search, disclose, record,  question, entertain, suggest and remember. They inform citizens and  animate democracy ( White, 1996; Pg 288 ). It is important to note that journalists, similarly to politicians, are held accountable for what they report. † Accountability engenders trust, ( White, 1996; Pg 288 ). Journalists in Australia are answerable to a self-regulatory and industry funded board known as the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance. The media often influences’ and reflects the priorities of communities or societies. The media is reliant on advertisements for revenue. In order to attract businesses to advertise, the outlet must attract consumers. This sees media  outlets selling the news, opinions and human-interest pieces that appeal to the values, opinions and sense of the greater market, namely, the readers and viewers. Increasingly, it is impossible to discuss the media without broaching the subject of public relations. Public relations professionals are most apt at using the media to suit their needs. They create the stories and feed the media with them, highlighting those facts they wish known, and keeping the undesirable ones hidden. If a cause requires the attention of the general public, it is possible to entice the media to cover it by creating newsworthy conditions. Politicians employ public relations professionals, who are often professional journalists, to liaise with the media. Obligations of the media to the citizen are to represent, interpret and evaluate ( O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2002 ). The majority of citizens receive their knowledge of global issues through media outlets. The media explains these occurrences to the general public, giving them an understanding of what they may not otherwise know. The media can be seen as an educational tool, giving understanding of the norms, values and realities of society to citizens ( O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2002 ). The real power of the media lies in its ability to ‘ agenda set ‘ ( Ward, 2002; Pg 404 ). † The media may not be able to tell people what to think but †¦.. they are remarkably successful in telling audiences what issues to think about, † ( Cohen, 1963; Pg 13 ). The media can act as society’s definer, giving meaning and understanding to situations and occurrences. Although the definitions and explanations may not necessarily reflect the attitudes of the subject ‘ experts ‘, the power of the media can quickly see misinformation become the general consensus. Since the September 11 terrorist attacks, the term ‘ terrorism ‘ has been misinterpreted within the media, and used to describe what academics in the field would not label as terrorism. Debate is strong regarding the issues of media censorship, with allegations, arising more and more frequently, regarding violent, sexually explicit and disturbing films, comics, song lyrics, Internet sites and books. Misdemeanor behaviour is often said to have been motivated and inspired by such mediums. In Australia’s republic referendum held in 1999, † 18 of Australia’s 20 daily newspapers supported a ‘Yes’ vote, † ( Ward, 2002; Pg 404 ). Despite this, the majority of Australian’s voted against Australia becoming a republic. Media scholars are aware that media campaigns will not alter political views of those with existing political opinion and loyalties. An increasing minority however, are influenced by media propaganda and media content may prove valuable during elections in the more marginal seats ( Ward, 2002; Pg 404 ). The example of the republic referendum could be seen as an attempted, and ultimately failed, use of the CNN effect on society. _________________________________________________ The above discussion is in reference to situations within western democracies. Other political systems, including dictatorships and less democratic regimes, eg. Zwimbabe, USSR, and China use the media differently, tending to control opinion and political views, and thereby dictating public viewpoints. Prior to the recent elections in Russia, many of the non-government television stations were taken over or shut down, and had to change their influence and affiliations before being allowed to broadcast again. This saw the public denied access to media that presents a point of view different to that which the government wants citizens to have. Hitler shut down all newspapers during his leadership and produced his own, preaching his messages to the masses, this undoubtedly contributing to the large number of Germans that became Nazis. Media ownership is an essential element in this debate, and it is vital to recognize the regulations regarding media ownership in Australia. The federal government of 1986 sought to ensure that media ownership remained as diverse as possible. † A person owning a television license cannot at the same time own more than 15 per cent of a newspaper published in the same city † ( Singleton et al, 2000: Pg 308 ). 1992, however, saw legislation altered to allow more than 15 per ownership, provided the owner is deemed † not to be in control † ( Singleton et al, 2000: Pg 308 ). In a democratic society it is always possible for the alternative point of view to be presented, and for the most part, all sides of debates are considered. The media affects and reflects. It can act as an agent of propaganda and it can set the agenda. It can influence, or be influenced. The media, the state and the citizens are interdependent, each needing and using the other to inform and be informed. Western democracies will continue to see a balance within the media and the information it contains, as media ownership laws ensure the media remains democratic. BIBLIOGRAPHY Cohen, B. 1963. The Press and Foreign Policy. New Jersey: Princeton University Press. Entman, R. 1991. ‘ Framing US Coverage of International News: Contrasts in Narratives of the KAL and Iran Air Incidents ‘. Journal of Communication 41(4):6 – 27. Holbrooke, R. 1999. No Media – No War. Index on Censorship, 28(3): 20-1. Negrine, Ralph. 1989. Politics and the Mass Media in Britain. London: Routledge. O’Shaughnessy, Michael & Stadler, Jane. 2002. Media and Society, An Introduction. 2nd Edition. Victoria: Oxford University Press. Robinson, Piers. 2002. The CNN Effect: The myth of news, foreign policy and intervention. London: Routledge. Singleton, Aitkin, Jinks & Warhurst. 2000. Australian Political Institutions. 6th Edition. Malaysia: Pearson Education Australia Pty Limited / Longman. Ward, Ian. 2002. Media Power. Government, Politics, Power and Policy in Australia. Summers, John ( Ed ). NSW: Pearson Education Australia Pty Limited / Longman. Wheeler, Mark. 1997. Politics and the Mass Media. Oxford: Blackwell Publishers Ltd. White, Sally. 1996. Reporting in Australia. 2nd Edition. South Yarra: MacMillan Publishers Australia Pty Limited.

Enlish Methods Of Writing For Junior Cert Essay

Junior Cert English â€Å"Functional Writing† Introduction and Overview The Functional Writing section of Paper I asks the student, in as close as possible, to write in the style of somebody who either uses language for a living, or is conducting business or important matters through writing or speech. This part of Paper I strays away from fiction, but is not entirely devoid of opportunities to use language in a creative or dramatic fashion. In some cases the student may have to use their imagination to provide detail to make their work seem realistic and give it the authentic feel. The marks in Functional Writing are given for the knowledge of the style and tone required for the task, and for the understanding of the format required. Awareness of Audience and Task In all cases in this section, your choice of language, and your use of tone and register will be dictated to you by  · The intended recipient and/or audience.  · Your means of delivery. In short, you can either use a formal or informal style of address. You should take into account the age, status, and size of the audience you are dealing with. Your language should always be trying to create the appropriate impression of both who you are and what you’re trying to do. For example, you would use a formal style of address if you were writing a letter to your bank manager asking for a loan to start your own business. Your language would be confident, but not aggressive: informative, but not laboriously so: enthusiastic but not overzealous. The impression created on the bank manager is that you are reliable, competent and trustworthy, and your business will be a huge success. For your own entertainment you might want to write the worst possible letter of application for the same loan- you would be over-familiar, disrespectful, vague, repetitive, and riddled with inaccuracies about yourself and what you want to do. You can then guess what response this would get from the same bank manager going through their morning mail. This then is the key to Functional writing; awareness of the tone you are to take, and the choice of language to use to reinforce that tone. An example of a task that you would be asked to complete with an informal style is to imagine that you have been asked by a club that you are involved with to make a presentation to a class of twelve year old primary school children to encourage them to join. You would be presenting this verbally, so when you would prepare your material beforehand, you would stress key information on several occasions, to avoid having the same basic question repeated infinitely. As your audience would be unlikely to have firsthand experience of what you are taking about, you would use the simplest language possible, and use short, sequential, informative language. You would also use an informal tone, as you would want your audience to think your group would be welcoming and fun, not preoccupied with taking everything too seriously. Here is an example of a completely made-up extract from my very busy diary. Consider the language and tone I would use for each of the following tasks in just one day: 10:00 – Book holiday tickets over phone from travel agency. 11:00 – Complete and edit report for Boss on efficiency of new sys. 12:00 – Address fundraising lunch for Kidney Dialysis unit for Children’s Hospital. 2:00 – Write congratulations card for birth of secretary’s daughter’s first child. 3:00 – Deliver presentation to investors on Company performance. 4:00 – Talk to business journalist about new product range. 6:00 – Attend parent-teacher meeting at son’s new school. 8:00 – Coach under 12 team – introduce new training drills. 10:00 Convince very unsympathetic wife that I’ve had a long day. At both 12:00 and 3:00 I will be addressing a group of businesspeople. However, there are differences. People will not want to be overly serious at lunch, so I will be able to use a respectful but informal tone. I may even be able to use language that will influence my audience emotionally. However, at 3:00 I will have to be very formal and very structured in my use of language and terminology for the business meeting. Look at the way my 11:00 task is written. Will I get away with that use of shorthand and slang in the report itself? Of course not; what is acceptable as a note for your own use is not acceptable for a report for someone else’s reading. Will it be easier to present information to my 3:00 or 8:00 appointment? In the afternoon everybody will be fresh. Will they be as sharp in the evening? Should my card for my secretary’s daughter be written with the same tone and language as my report for my employer? All of these questions are central to the idea of functional writing. Make sure what you are doing is appropriate to your task and your audience. Reports. A report can be written for a newspaper, radio programme, or television broadcast. No matter whether it’s to be read or spoken, start with the most important details first. You should deal with the following sequence of facts; 1) what has happened; 2) how it happened; 3) why it happened. The first section, what, will also include where, who and when. A report doesn’t only have to include the facts, it can also include opinions, in the form of quotations from the relevant experts and authorities, and also some degree of speculation as to what will happen next, and what consequences there will be. Unlike a review, the writer is there to convey the truth and facts of the matter. They are to be unbiased, non-judgemental, and let the facts speak for themselves. A good reporter will trust their audience to make up its mind in the right way once it has all the facts. The Tabloid Unlike the Broadsheet, the Tabloid newspaper makes no bones about  choosing sides in a story, and actively tries to persuade its readers to share its opinion. They very much like to take a light hearted approach to news material if at all possible, and frequently use puns in headlines. They also avoid putting in too many views or opinions on any given subject. They like first-hand accounts from people involved in making the news, and will avoid analysis, as they prefer to be very direct in their focus on the story. The tabloid journalist likes to gain an emotional response from their reader, and will not shy away from showing where their sympathies lie in any given story. They will sometimes choose to present deliberately one-sided reports on what may sometimes be very complicated issues. They like stories that involve celebrities or famous people, and avoid serious treatment of political or economic issues as much as possible. They thrive on scandal, and what they believe is the public’s insatiable appetite to see what goes on behind closed doors. Tabloids pride themselves on their extremely in-depth sports coverage. The average reading age (age at which a reader would be expected to understand all contents without difficulty) for a Tabloid newspaper is just nine years. Tabloids like simple and short sentences. They use puns and wordplay to highlight and make memorable the key thrust of their story. They avoid using complicated terminology, and long sentences. They also highlight key-points by having several sub-captions to stories, and by using several illustrations to put across the message visually as well. Tabloids have always been traditionally strong on visual information and colour pictures. In recent years tabloids have abandoned over-reliance on the â€Å"page-three girl† feature as they are trying to encourage more women readers. The Broadsheet A broadsheet newspaper is characterised, not only by its large size, but by the attitude it takes towards journalism, and the presentation of news stories. Primarily, a broadsheet will focus on political, economic and lifestyle features. It will present its main stories in a very in-depth and detailed format. They will take a very serious tone with the reader, and will avoid anything that might seem to be trivialising an issue, for example, a pun in a headline. They prefer a serious, sombre, and often  complex approach to news-stories. Broadsheet newspapers examine not only what happened, but how it happened, why it happened, if it happens frequently, what can be done about it, and they will also mention when similar events occurred. They like to find many individuals related to the event, and experts to give quotations and opinions on what has happened. The broadsheet journalist likes to appear impartial and unbiased, and avoids any sense that their emotions might be affecting what they write in any way. They like to convey the impression that they give you the whole truth. Some broadsheet newspapers are physically huge. The average reading age (level of difficulty) for reading a broadsheet and understanding everything in it would be fourteen years, which means you would be able to follow everything. Broadsheets are only now beginning to embrace the possibilities for the use of colour in their papers. Traditionally they have been very black and white affairs, but are increasing the amount of photographs they publish. Reviews. The art of the reviewer is to give the reader just enough a suggestion of what it is you’re talking about, just enough to whet their appetite. If you check a Sunday newspaper, you can find reviews of motorcars, concerts, films, restaurants, even hotels! Nothing is too small, or too large to avoid being reviewed. You could be required to write a review of a favourite film of yours, or to write a blurb for the back of a novel. Unlike a report, which is essentially factual, a review gives you far more scope to let your opinions and feelings known. You can say what you liked or disliked about what you’re reviewing, and that is almost important as a factual description of what you’re reviewing. You can create either a very positive or negative impression on your reader by the tone and language you use. You should assume that your reader has a general interest in the area, but may not be familiar with exactly what you’re going to tell them about. It is easy to criticise something, and often after saying how bad something is, you will find yourself repeating your verdict without informing the reader of why, how or what was bad about it. If you are still looking to fill space, try constructive criticism. Any reviewer can pronounce whether something is good or bad; only the inspired reviewer can point out what was done well, and conversely, what opportunities were lost. For example, if you are reviewing the sitcom Friends, then you should fill in the background first for the reader. It is advisable to go into some detail about the characters, and then finally to attempt some analysis of why it is you like or dislike it. Interviews. Q: What’s the difference between an interview and writing dialogue? A: Interviews are essentially pieces of dialogue, but without the qualifying â€Å"he saids / she saids† at the end of each piece of speech. The different parts of the conversation can be put as question and answer exchanges (â€Å"Q:† and â€Å"A:†), or if it is a more informal interview which is very similar to a conversation, then you can call yourself â€Å"Interviewer†, but refer to your subject by their Surname. Keep your questions short, and let your interviewee expand on them. Q: What are the things I should try to do, and what are the most common problems? A: A bad question to ask is anything that would encourage your interviewee to give a monosyllabic answer, of the â€Å"yes/no† variety. A good question is one which gives the interviewee a chance to illustrate with examples from their life, work, or to ponder on events important to their work, lives, and past or future. A good interviewer gets to the point quickly, and their questions will never be longer than the answers they receive. I once interviewed Seamus Heaney while in college, and committed all of the above mistakes. The Sample Answer below I have had to invent to cover my embarrassment! As well as bearing in mind your interviewee, bear in mind the audience who will be reading this interview. You want something  that is informative, but not technical, and which allows the person or subject to come across well to the reader. There was a fashion recently in newspapers for interviews in which you discovered more about the interviewer than the interviewee, but thankfully, this has now passed. Q: So, I basically just make the entire thing up then? But how do I structure it? A: If you are stuck as to where to start, pick an example of an interviewee who would be appropriate, and write out the list of questions you would like to ask them. Then all you need to do is invent their answers, going by what you know of them. If you’re still stuck, then ask what they’re doing now, what they were doing previously, and what they hope to be doing in six months time. You can also ask if they have achieved all they want to do, or if they think other people’s impressions of them are important. Bear in mind though that your questions will ultimately depend on who the intended audience for the interview is. If they are your age, then ask questions you think your friends would like to know the answers to. Within reason, of course. Speech Writing The skill of speech writing could be relevant to Personal Writing or Functional Writing. How to write, deliver and appreciate a good speech. The key to writing and delivering a good speech is to remember at all times that the speaker is dealing with an audience. The writer/speaker must also bear in mind at what occasion the speech is to be delivered. A speech to be given at an EGM of a company faced with bankruptcy will be drastically different in its structure, tone, and technique than a speech to be given by the same speaker at a wedding later that week! How to write a speech. (For this section, we will consider a speech as that which a speaker would be called upon to prepare for a debate, or public speaking competition.) First, read your motion carefully. In the Junior Certificate, you will be invited to speak either for or against the topic. In deciding whether to speak for or against the motion, don’t necessarily choose the side of the motion which  you support; choose instead the side of the argument that will give you the most arguments to use in your speech. A good idea is to brainstorm all the possible arguments both for and against, and when you see which side gives you more avenues of thought to pursue, choose it. Second, having chosen your side of the debate, decide that the motion is a good or bad idea because†Ã‚ ¦This then will become the argument of your speech. The argument is the central theme which you will introduce, build upon and then summarise. Often it is best to have to have three reasons; Example For Capital Punishment is a good idea because†Ã‚ ¦ 1. It deters other criminals from committing serious crimes 2. It is cheap, efficient, and labour saving 3. It eliminates the possibility of repeat offences Against Capital Punishment is a bad idea because†Ã‚ ¦ 1. Miscarriages of justice cannot be rectified 2. It makes killing right for some yet wrong for others, thus introducing a double standard when there should be a simple statement that â€Å"murder is a crime† 3. Prisons should be for rehabilitating offenders, not for revenge All of the above statements should then be supported by example, but remember, in a debate, your argument is more important than your examples. A good speaker is always restating their argument; a bad speaker is always lost in a fog of example. This is how your argument becomes informative and clear. Third, decide on the structure and tone you want to use in your speech. Some speakers may like to start their speech with a story, anecdote or quotation that will then illustrate their arguments to follow. This gives the speaker a chance to make the speech unique, and make it more relevant than a theoretical discussion of some issue that has never had, or will never have any affect on the speaker. What tone are you going to use? Avoid making sweeping statements, such as â€Å"we all know what this is going to lead to.† Instead, pitch such ideas to the audience in the form of rhetorical questions: â€Å"Do we want our society to be like this?† Avoid the use of too much jargon, and if you are forced to, make sure to define the term immediately after you first mention it, so the audience will be informed for when they will next hear the term. Do not believe that your audience are already experts on this issue – you may need to fill them in on the basics  first. Do not do this in a patronising way, but instead say that you want to focus their attention on the key issues. In this way you will be more persuasive, and less arrogant. Too much arrogance and you will end up alienating your audience from your point of view. Opening comments. Depending on the occasion that the speech is to be delivered, start with the most important dignitaries present, and proceed through your list to the end, which is usually your fellow speakers. A standard opening for a school debate would be Chairperson, Principal, Honoured Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Fellow Students, Fellow Speakers, I have come before you today to speak on the motion that†Ã‚ ¦(insert motion here)†Ã‚ ¦ Continue to refer directly to the audience at intervals throughout your speech, and conclude with a summary of all your arguments, and by thanking the audience for their time and attention. Ladies and Gentlemen, having put forward the facts, I beg you to support/oppose this motion, that†Ã‚ ¦(insert motion here)†Ã‚ ¦ How do you know if you have written a good speech? Imagine you are listening to that speech from the audience. To a member of an audience, no matter where, a good speech will always have the following qualities. 1. It will be suited to the tone of the occasion, whether solemn, or celebratory. 2. It will be informative, but not so technical that it either confuses or loses you. 3. You will be clear at the end of the speech as to why the speaker feels in the way they do about the topic they have spoken on. 4. The speech will emphasise why the issue is important to everyday life, rather that some abstract worry that may never affect you. 5. You will have been given a definition of the issue, and more importantly, a series of suggestions or steps as to how this issue should be dealt with. 6. You will have developed a sympathy for both the speaker and the issue that they spoke upon.

Galvanic corrosion

Galvanic corrosion (also called ‘ dissimilar metal corrosion' or wrongly ‘electrolysis') refers to corrosion damage induced when two dissimilar matter l's are coupled with a corrosive electrolyte. Galvanic corrosion is an electrochemical process In which one metal corrodes onto another when both metals are in electrical co intact, in the presence Of an electrolyte. When a galvanic couple forms, one Of the metals I n the couple becomes the anode and corrodes faster than it would all by itself, while e the other becomes the cathode and corrodes slower than it would by itself.So basically the anode metal is breaking down onto the cathode metal. For galvanic corrosion to occur, three things must be present: Electrochemically dissimilar metals must be pre .NET, these metals must be in electrical contact, and the metals must be exposed to an electrolyte. Galvanic Corrosion was discovered in the late part of the eighteenth century b Lugging Galvanic in a series of experiments wi th the exposed muscles and nerves of a frog that contracted when connected to a conductor.Its humorous to think Galvan ICC corrosion was found on accident when experimenting on frogs. The concept was also e engineered into the useful protection of metallic structures by Sir Humphrey Davys and Mice hall Faraday in the early part of the nineteenth century. The sacrificial corrosion of en metal such as zinc, magnesium or aluminum is a widespread method of protecting metallic Structures. While galvanic corrosion is potentially problematic to civil engineer s, they can use it to their benefit.For example buried or submerged structures, in HTH s case, sacrificial anodes work as part of a galvanic couple, promoting corrosion of the e anode, in order to protect the cathode metal. To dumb it down one metals life is been g drastically reduce so the other metals life will last longer. On another note if you do not want galvanic corrosion taking place corrosion inhibitors such as sodium nitrite or sodium moldboard can be injected into the systems to reduce the galvanic potential.However, the application Of these co erosion inhibitors must be monitored closely. If the application of corrosion inhibitors increases the conductivity of the water within the system, the galvanic corrosion potent al can be greatly increased. A different means of avoiding galvanic corrosion is to coins deer the 2 electrical potential of the metals you are selecting. A galvanic series list the el citric potentials of metals, the relative position of two metals on such a series gives good indication of which metal is more likely to corrode more quickly.Looking back at my opening statement, you can now understand why galvanic corrosion can be so hostile. If you select the wrong metals in a system, and the e load bearing metal of the system corrodes, you systems is bound to fail. On the to her end of the spectrum, galvanic corrosion can possibly be helpful, if indeed you want t o sacrifice one metal in order to protect another. With an indented knowledge of galvanic corrosion civil engineers can predict and act upon potentially hazardous situations. 3

An Analysis of Modern Theatre Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

An Analysis of Modern Theatre - Essay Example The fluidity that the position offered gave a lot of scope for thinkers like McGrath and Bakhtin. Both these thinkers looked upon the conventions of theatre that privileged a catharsis inducing performance of a play as detrimental to the political fabric of modern democracies. They were thus, according to them, outdated. The principles of tragedy and theatre in general, which pointed to catharsis, a mixture of pity and fear that prevented praxis on the part of the spectator and led him to look at the play as nothing but a fiction could not, or should not be applied to modern theatre, according to these thinkers. This is not to say that theatre in modern times have or have not adhered to these principles. While there have been adaptations of plays that do not seek to do anything but glorify imperial assumptions of race and class, there have also been ones that are political and seek to challenge the very assumptions that the earlier plays held. It is surprising that many of such plays began through a reversal of earlier roles as they were seen. One can look at the play A Tempest and understand its political implications through the reversal of the traditional roles of Caliban and Prospero. The heroic role is played by Caliban who is a monster in William Shakespeare’s version (Cesaire, 2002). This reversal of roles comes at the back of many changes that took place in theatre during the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries when the ideals that Aristotle had laid down for theatre had been completely demolished. Even naturalist ideas that had dominated theatre for a while had been pulled down and new fluid conventions were erected in their place. Importance started to be given to the common man who then became the protagonist in many important plays. One of the most important examples of this can be seen in Arthur Miller’s play, Death of a Salesman, where the protagonist, Willy Loman is a common salesman whose death forms the major part of the story (Miller, 2007). This needs to be looked at in conjunction with the theories that were propounded by John McGrath. In his book, he says, You go into a space, and some other people use certain devices to tell you a story. Because they have power over you, in a real sense, while you are there, they make a choice, with political implications, as to which story to tell - and how to tell it. If their work is good and skillfully written, presented and acted, we come out feeling exhilarated: we are more alive for seeing it, more aware of the possibilities of the human race, more fully human ourselves.

Networks and how they work ----- See below Essay

Networks and how they work ----- See below - Essay Example A client/server network makes use of one or more dedicated machine (that is known as a server) to share the printers, files, and applications. On the other hand, a peer-to-peer network allows its users to share files using any other user and does not necessitate a central, dedicated server (TechsChange, 2010; Nash, 2000; Turban, Leidner, McLean, & Wetherbe, 2005). In the same way, the Internet is a huge network of networks. It connects all the networks so that they could receive and send data and information. For this purpose, the Internet uses a communication protocol that is known as TCP/IP (Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) (TechsChange, 2010; Nash, 2000; Turban, Leidner, McLean, & Wetherbe, 2005). This paper presents an overview of TCP/IP network structure and its working. This paper will discuss some of the important aspects of the TCP/IP framework and how this arrangement has enabled the expansion of the Internet into a worldwide network. This paper also outlines some issues regarding these networks. TCP/IP based network management operations are normally associated with a protocol accountable for applying those processes. This protocol is known as the  SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). In fact, the majority of IT people are aware of SNMP as it is common for SNMP to determine â€Å"the† method that network management is carried out in TCP/IP. Basically, the SNMP protocol is an element of a higher-level network management policy known as  the Internet Standard Management Framework. Thus, in order to actually identify how SNMP works, we fulfill some conditions of the method that this network is controlled all together (Kozierok, 2005). In addition, open protocol standards are freely accessible and developed autonomously from some particular computer hardware or operating system platform. In view of the fact that the TCP/IP is extensively supported, thus it is perfect for connecting different hardware and software,

Muted Group Theory Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Muted Group Theory - Research Paper Example Thus, the female circle is neither invisible nor acknowledged-eventually, only a small part or rather, reflections of it are exposed.   Consequently, women’s experiences are felt only as â€Å"black holes† or reminiscences of society. Women’s on perspectives are restricted by this enforced tunnel vision, and their voices are not publicly articulated. Women, then, are   left with two choices.   They can attempt to translate their point of view into a masculine mode or try to detach alternate modes of communication. Both options are problematic. For one, the translation process can give rise to communication difficulties and an ensuing lack of communication satisfaction.   There are also structural barriers to the development of alternate communication modes, as men, whether conscious or not, will perpetuate their power by preventing other voices from being heard and acknowledged.   As a result, women’s voices are muted.   Working as a business a nalyst and meeting with business people who are usually male had been a challenging experience for me. Finding the right words , being articulate enough to sound straightforward like a man is just not of the female character that it posed a real challenge for someone working in a male dominated profession. There have been times I felt that my opinions were just solicited with my male colleagues just acting civilly in my presence, but not really listening and understanding what I was telling. I had to understand.... Working as a business analyst and meeting with business people who are usually male had been a challenging experience for me. Finding the right words , being articulate enough to sound straightforward like a man is just not of the female character that it posed a real challenge for someone working in a male dominated profession. There have been times I felt that my opinions were just solicited with my male colleagues just acting civilly in my presence, but not really listening and understanding what I was telling. I had to understand at those times that there are differences in the understanding and interpretations of men and women of the spoken words. That women usually tend to consider not only the literal meaning of what is said but also interpret meanings beneath it. Also, being with men made me somehow ‘lose’ my feminine identity because i had to act and sound like them for me to be accepted as a part of ‘their’ group. Note, however, that muting is not the same as silencing and that muting is only successful only when the non-dominant group (in this case, women) ceases to find and develop alternative communication styles to express their experiences and code their messages. When this happens, only traces are left of the original, a kind of palimpsest. Feminist communication scholars have documented the ways in which â€Å"masculine† language both inhibits and infects women’s forms of expression and how women are forced to double-code their messages through different rhetorical means. According to the muted group theory, women face a dilemma arising from the fact that their experiences and means of communication are restricted by their marginalization in society and their relative isolation within the private sphere-deemed not only irrelevant

Britvic plcs 2011 annual report,1)Critically evaluate the information Essay

Britvic plcs 2011 annual report,1)Critically evaluate the information contained in the Chairmans Statement - Essay Example According to his statement and the financial report, the company has made a record of both revenue and volume growth in 2011 in the international market (Gibson 201). This growth is evident in the French and an international territory which contributes to the company’s overall growth of about 4.3%. This growth brings the company to the current 138.1 million Euros. The statement indicates that there was a growth of revenue for Britvic in the year 2011 to 14.6%. That means that the current revenue position in the company according to its financial statement is 1.3 billion Euros. The chairman’s stamen indicates the underlying revenue excluding that of the French territory in the previous financial year. It was a notable achievement for the company given the situation of the cost of raw materials. Their cost was high in this particular year, but Britvic recorded high revenue. The chairman also congratulates the company on its progress quoting that there was a weaker consumer environment in comparison to the previous years. The GB revenue of the company in 201 was 2.7 %, which indicates a growth of 11.3 % from the previous two years. There is an association between growth and the strong carbonates performance of the company (Gibson 2010). The chairman’s report attributes the continued success of the company to its strategy of supply chains, distribution channels and innovation. His statement also indicates of the company’s strategy of business efficiency as being one of the contributors to its success. Britvic also operates in Ireland, though operations in this region have been difficult. In 2011, the company was able to launch new brands in the market like juicy drench and Mountain Dew. The two brands have been a success in the market because consumers are purchasing them. Difficult macro trading conditions in the market led to a decline in revenue by 9.6 % (Gibson, 2010). The chairman explains how the

Identity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Identity - Essay Example Therefore, our identity is then defined by how we think we fit in to the world around us, and how we feel we stand out (positively/ negatively). Our culture, beliefs and they way our parents have provided us upbringing shapes our thoughts and perception of the situation and hence the world around us. We are a part of the culture that is followed in a country to which we belong, the language we speak the religion we follow the beliefs we acquire through ancestry. This together culminates to a civilization, our ethnicity and no culture can influence it. The way we are presented in the society ascertain and formulate our identity. Our behavior, our communication skills become our tools that enable us to survive and prosper. Our customs and traditions which we follow define our integrity and values we have in our lives. They are the aids of social interaction and do provide an individual a distinctive identity. Therefore identity is personal, social and ethnic and the personality that is shaped out of this is an amalgamation of all these convictions. Thus, establishing one's identity can be both a liberating and an oppressive occurrence as separation from any one of these parameters directly influences the identity and personality of the individual. For e.g. 1. Children who have been separated from their family or country of origin due to migration may become perplexed about their personal and social identities. They experience a number of moves, been cared for by different people in different places, lost important contacts and relationships from their past, been separated from family, friends and their ethnic and cultural networks. 2. Adopted child has some different personality especially those who are from diverse cultural backgrounds or have some kind of disability. Feeling or being made to feel different is a major issue for children who have been adopted. For the adopted child, the stigma of not living with their birth family, living as a cultural or ethnic minority and becoming accustomed to what it means to be adopted are lifelong adjustments. 3. Similar kind of stigma is felt by the children of the prisoners and those who commit punishable offence. Parent's deed affects the individuality of the child and provides a social aloofness, this make the child unique and shapes the personality of a child in a different perspective. The child may start hating the family/ society or parents or cultivate some kind of criminal psyche within the premature mind. 4. Children of the broken marriage also face identity crisis and are confused. They feel ashamed to talk about the disputes their parents have undergone resulting in unsuccessful marriage. It inculcates the seeds of insecurity in the child's mind and changes the psychology of the child. The child does not gain trust on any one and any kind of relationship throughout the life. This is the way personality is changed and shaped. 5. Parents undergoing the phase of mourning after divorce establishes a new sense of self and hence a new sense of identity. It is established that in a long-term marriage, each individual's sense of self-identity becomes tied to the other person and indeed to the marriage itself. Following a broken marriage, each person must reach back into his or her early experience and find other images and

Economy or goberment related Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Economy or goberment related - Personal Statement Example One can clearly see how Economics has overtaken all other fields. Wolfers (2015) gives an explanation of the development in question by arguing that the Great Depression was the major reason why Economics took over. The government needed to devise a way that would relieve the country from the economic strains that it had gone through. The economist came in handy. Major focus and importance was given to Economics as it gave answers to the existing problems as opposed to Psychology or even Anthropology (Wolfers, 2015). In the work, the author also explains that Economists are also consulted in numerous fields today, including fields that touch on social issues (Wolfers, 2015). This explains why Economics has become a major for many students, as the field is extremely marketable in the job market. The popularity of the field is also expected to increase with the years. From Wolfers’ (2015) work, I agree that the field of economics has taken over the field of Social Sciences. In the present society, it is evident that a huge percentage of articles, even in the archives, mention concepts related to economists. The number of articles on Psychology, Sociology and other arts are reducing by the day. This explains the extent in which the world is shifting towards an economic turn. Wolfers (2015) also explains that the rise of economy began in the 1980s to date. This can be linked to the Great Depression that caused massive impacts on the economy of the country. After the catastrophe, the government opted to come up with stringent measures that would prevent such an occurrence (Wolfers, 2015). This explains the great interest in economics. I agree with the author’s sentiments as the government was obligated to come up with measures that would see to a stable economy. The historians that had taken up a huge share of the market had no place, and were slowly overtaken (Wolfers, 2015). I believe the economists were justified. No government

Plato and the Sophists Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Plato and the Sophists - Essay Example triad of philosophers beginning with Socrates, often called the father of classical philosophy, followed by his student Plato who in turn was followed by his student Aristotle. Between the three of them they shaped classical Greek thought and the way of life which became a model of inspiration for generations to come. Socrates, who was one among the group of Sophists, is generally considered to be the wisest and noblest Athenian, whose thoughts were always concerned with ways of improving public life and who well knew that in order to lead a life of goodness, man must stay away from public office. Plato in his Apology quotes Socrates as saying that â€Å"The true champion of justice, if he intends to survive even for a short time, must necessarily confine himself to private life and leave politics alone.† This could be the reason why Socrates shied away from holding any public office and instead devoted his whole life to the â€Å"supreme art of philosophy† and taught it to willing students without any monetary gains. He was the only one of the philosophers, who lived the life he preached. Socrates became so popular that his advice was sought on matters ranging from social conduct to solving the most mundane problems. But in 399 BC Socrates was charged "as an evil-doer and curious p erson, searching into things under the earth and above the heavens; and making the worse appear the better cause, and teaching all this to others" (Plato) and was eventually given the death sentence on charges of impiety. Socrates has often been called the gadfly of Athens because of his ceaseless pursuit of truth. Plato, one of the most famous students of Socrates is famous for his work ‘The Republic’ which is generally considered a text for a perfect society. In this book Plato argues about knowledge and reality and makes reality an offshoot of our thinking process. In Platos argument’s there is a higher reality called ‘Forms’ which is unchanging and universal and it is

Funding a Business Venture Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Funding a Business Venture - Assignment Example h Parker’s funding comes with its pros and cons, Wolf found it as the preferred source, considering financing risks and possible help he could get for the promotion of tracker. Investment banking matches the needs of those who have money and those who need it (Wise, 2006). And investment bankers, such as Goldman Sachs, raise capital by underwriting securities or working as an agent to issue them. They also assist their clients with acquisitions and mergers as well as other ancillary services. Their significance lies in their ability to finance huge projects and help their clients with acquisitions and mergers. Stock market facilitates the buying and selling of shares (Fontanills & Gentile, 2001). Shares of those companies that are listed in stock exchanges, such as New York and London, are traded there. Stock market is one of the best sources of raising capital and spreading the company’s ownership widely. McLaney says risk is an important element of all financial decisions and must be considered (2009). Risk financing relates to managing funds for unexpected losses to the company. It is important to make provisions for weathering unexpected losses. Start-ups face more uncertainties than old ones about market, sales, competition, cost of production, and failure. Funding a start-up business is a major challenge. Gary Wolf, a former junior scientist with the General Electric (GE) with several minor but useful inventions under his belt, came to know about it when he wanted to start his own business, Tracker Co., to develop and sell a tracker. The tracker would help viewers to track and record television programs that met the pre-designated specifications, when the viewers were away from television. While recording, the device would skip too violent or sexually explicit scenes. After carefully considering all options, Wolf decided to get funding from a business angel. Wolf needed $50,000 to start. Out of this, $40,000 was necessary to set up a laboratory to

Individual Risk Management Essay Example for Free

Individual Risk Management Essay The objective of risk management is to develop response actions to minimize the impact of possible negative events during every phase of a project. The process also works to increase the impact of the positive events and mitigate the problems associated with making changes (Project Management Institute,  © 2013). The risks in many projects are multifaceted in nature because the positive impact created at one stage of a project, could have dire consequences at another. For example, occasionally in construction projects, floor slabs will have design defects that will not properly drain and eliminate the migration of water breaching the inside of the structure. A minor re-design of the slab configuration will eliminate the drainage problem but cause a significant structural issue with roof trussing and its ability to hold the house together during a minimal shift. The changes made to correct the slab issue are great, but the problems it will create down the line are greater unless the initial solution is analyzed all the way through the project. Identifying the risk and plausible solutions is done through a series of procedures, techniques, and analysis to meet the objectives of risk management. Another dimension of the risk management kaleidoscope understands the definition of risk from various viewpoints and positions with stake in the project. The risk management operation requires a planning process describing how to conduct the risk management based on the activities and tasks necessary to complete the work. There is an intangible element with assessing the risk of defining the tolerances and attitudes of the organizational leaders and stakeholders. A project manager with experience will have a more complete understanding of this component performing an internal analysis of risk appetite and risk tolerance levels surrounding the organization and the primary stakeholders. The amount of risk for a project is measured, analyzed, and quantified with  numerous equations, graphs, and statistical parameters to confirm and justify the data, but understanding what is in the head of corporate leaders and stakeholders and the level of risk they are comfortable with; is not on a spreadsheet. The understanding of this type of risk management comes from experience and high-level communication skills put into an action plan before the project is started. The risk management process is dependent on several documents for information to achieve its objectives, respond accordingly with monitor and control procedures specific to the project (Project Management Institute,  © 2013). The risk team will rely in the risk management plan to identify and classify their roles and responsibilities in the key areas. The team also collects information from cost management plan that assists in controlling levels of precision, accuracy, and units of measure. The cost management for risk managers involves more controlling of operational expenditures than total cost of the project (Cooper, Raymond, Walker, 2005). The information provided by the schedule management plan is also a vital document especially in conjunction with the cost management plan to control progression throughout the project life cycle. The scope baseline document is a mandatory piece of information the risk team will look closely at for possible assumptions and uncertainty that might exist. Information for the project that the teams will use throughout the project as reference and updating tools are the stakeholder register, procurement documents, and enterprise environmental factors just to name a few ( Project Management Institute,  © 2013). The risk management team completes the identification process with the creation of the risk register and a defined risk management plan (RMP) explaining the risk activities, risk challenges, risk treatment, and structured response in detail. This RMP defines the tools, resources, roles, and responsibilities for managers and line workers alike to minimize project defects and enhance project production. The RMP delivers four main objectives significant to the project, by categorizing the risk into different levels for each phase and department. The risk categorization provides the probability and impact of the risk to gain a better understanding of the impact on the project in terms that are explicit to each, department, or stakeholder at every stage. The risk management matrix has four primary project objectives defining a plan to address cost, time, scope, and quality. The risk management during  the initial planning stages is performed the same way with adjusted tolerances because of limited information. (Project Management Institute,  © 2013). Provided below is a Risk Breakdown Structure (RBS) as defined in the; A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK ® Guide). The RBS is performed on the information in the course syllabus â€Å". Your organization has decided that to be successful in the global economy it must expand its supply base into China† (The Apollo Group Inc., 2010). Project Risks: Internal risks of compatibility with stakeholders and foreign lending institutions. The technical capabilitites and servicing capacity for optimum production levels. External Risks: Implmenting organizational objectives in bureaucratic ccontext of host country and meet essential program operations. Risk associated with enviromental enterprise and conceptual framework. Shortage of resources, poor infrastructure, foreign currency, cultural and socioeconomic enviroment. Incomplete understanding of project objectives, design, and sustainability to promote future growth. References Cooper, D. F., Raymond, G. S., Walker, P. (2005). Project Risk Guidelines: Managing risk in large projects and complex procurements. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley Sons.. Kerzner, H. (2009). Project Management: A systems approach to planning, scheduling, and controlling (10th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley Sons. Project Management Institute. ( © 2013). A Guide to the Project Management body of knowledge. (PMBOK ® Guide), Fifth Edition. Retrieved 02 17, 2014, from http://common.books24x7.com/toc.aspx?bookid=51356. Sollish, F., Semanik, J. (2007). The procurement and supply manager’s desk reference. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley Sons. The Apollo Group Inc ®. (2010). Syllabus CPMGT/302 Procurement and Risk Management. School of Business. Pheonix, AZ: University of Phoenix.

Setting Up a Joint Venture in China

Setting Up a Joint Venture in China FDI into China: Brief history Before 1980, under the presidency of Mao Tse Tong, China was a country completely closed to the world with a rigid and communist government. After that date, Deng Xiao Peng and the post-Mao government established a new foreign economic policy and announced that China would open to the outside world (Pearson, 1991). This new open-door policy only allowed contractual JVs (as lower risks) and China provided foreign investors with a specific partner. In the first years of the countrys opening, only  ¼ of contractual FDI where realized as investors were uncertain of this completely new environment. Moreover, many FDI were fraudulent (Fung, 2002). From 1992, FDI doubled and China started to welcome western multinational enterprises in specific sectors: automobile, petrochemical, telecommunicationsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ but only in selected zones of the country (SEZs: Special Economic Zones). China has quickly become the fastest growing economy and possesses 25% of the worlds population. FDI to China represents more than $80 billion in 2007 which shows that a decline in the economy is almost impossible ($130 billion in 2009) in comparison, FDI to India represent $3 billion per year (Lau, 2007). China: the best place to invest? However, despite the many attractive sides of China as a FDI destination, many western companies have faced failure when doing business in China. Indeed, in the case of JVs, the government provides a Chinese partner to the foreign investors that can face many different roadblocks: unfamiliarity with the business environment, corruptionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Yallapragada, 2003). In front of the rapid and unique economic development of China, some investors have rushed into investing in this promising country that seemed to offer so many advantages, ignoring some essential facts, (that will be developed later in the study) critical for the success of an investment. Since 1990, broad researches have been conducted concerning FDI and more particularly JVs in China and there is a good understanding of FDI mode decisions, the behavior to adopt to lead to a JV, inter partner concernsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ More research needs to be done concerning the factors that lead to success or failure of JVs Dissertation background The main reason behind the topic selection is that it is an area of interest to the author who can research what makes companies chose China as an FDI destination but more specifically what should be looked at to avoid the multiple failures that foreign companies have faced by developing a JV with a Chinese partner. The author aims at giving a more definitive picture of the Chinese FDI environment and that behind the image of China as a very attractive place for FDI, there are complex laws, regulations and a multitude of other factors that are not necessarily looked at by foreign investors and cause failure. Another reason is that this topic covers issues which are very relevant in todays business environment. It is a topic of interest for many business people and more and more academics around the world due to its unique development: 9% growth of the GDP per year since 1978 and 15% growth of the foreign trade per year (Lau, 2007). There is a belief that China could become the worlds largest economy in 25 years. Aims and objectives The overall aim of the dissertation is to study and critically analyse the foreign direct investment (FDI) environment of China by focusing on market-seeking joint-ventures (JVs) in a specific industry: food and beverage (soft). This study will be carried out using and appraising current academic literature and theories on JVs forming in China. Both secondary and primary research will be used. This critical study will be carried by tempting to achieve the following objectives: Identify the motives and determinants of FDI, focusing on market-seeking joint-ventures (JV) in China Identify the environmental regulations that facilitate or slow JVs down in China Identify the barriers to JVs in China and the main causes of failure Identify the key success factors (KSF) of western companies forming JVs with a Chinese partner and how barriers can be overcome The main focus will be on Western companies, especially French firms in the food and beverage industry. Structure of dissertation The study will be divided in 7 chapters: Chapter 1 is an introduction to the dissertation, explaining the background of the topic, the aims and objectives Chapter 2 is a review of the existing literature: journals, newspaper articles, books and Internet-based sources giving more insight into the topic of setting up an  IJV in China Chapter 3 explains the methodology that has been adopted to research and write the dissertation, including secondary and primary research methods Chapter 4 provides with findings and analysis trying to answer the aims and objectives of the dissertation Chapter 5 is a discussion of the findings Chapter 6 concludes the study and gives some recommendations. The author will in this part develop a model for successful IJV setting up in China Chapter 7 is a reflection on learning Chapter 2: Literature Review The following literature review is based on existing sources coming from a hybrid of academic books, journals, newspapers and credible Internet-based sources. This literature review will allow giving more insight into the topic and will also allow identifying any gaps in the existing literature to be covered in further primary research. The literature review will provide the author with a stronger base on which to develop a theory at the end of the dissertation. 2.1 Chinese investment environment 2.1.1 China, the fastest-growing economy The Chinese investment environment has been widely reported in the literature. Most of the authors agree that the Chinese government has made great achievements in terms of FDI since 1980. Lau Bruton (2007) describe China as the fastest-growing economy which can be explained by greater economic liberalization and easier repartition of profit by foreign investors. Fung (2002) explains that the promotion of FDI by the Chinese government has been an important part of the economic reforms since the open-door policy and made China the most important destination for FDI. The authors explain how China has gradually evolved in terms of FDI policy: Stage 1: Gradual and limited opening Stage 2: Active promoting through preferential treatment Stage 3: Promoting FDI in accordance with domestic industrial objectives Ng Tuan (2002), describe China as a FDI-friendly environment that possesses very attractive environmental factors such as the size of the Chinese market, its potential to growà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Argawal Wu (2003) describe China as a key player in the global economy and that its high economic growth has transformed China into one of the worlds largest economy. The transition from a command economy to a market-based economy has been incredibly and remarkably successful. Another factor that made China even more successful in terms of FDI is its entry to the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Fung (2002), Ng Tuan (2002), Yin (2009), Hoa (2010) and many other authors agree to say that China has had many difficulties to become a member of the WTO. After 15 years of high improvements, by reforming its economy and trade to be more market-oriented, by reducing tariffs and non-tariffs barriersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦China finally accessed the WTO in 2001. This accession gave remarkable benefits to China, who was promoted by the organization as a central stage in international trade. The Chinese battle to enter the WTO is described as an example that other nations (eg Russia), could learn from in order to access this organization. 2.1.2 Problems More and more authors in the literature insist on the difficulties to enter China. Being the fastest-growing economy does not mean that any MNE can enter the market easily and without any risk of failure. In front of all the attractive sides of the Chinese investment environment, and after its accession to the WTO that gave trust to foreign investors, many western MNEs (eg: Pepsi) have rushed into entering China and have faced insurmountable problems such as corruption, absence of trust and transparencyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Yallapragada, 2003). Zhang Fu (2008) describe China as a stringent environment that can have a negative impact on FDI. They remind us that even if China is the first recipient of FDI, there is a high disparity in geographical distribution. It is important to determine which region the foreign company is to invest. Indeed, the remarkable economic development of China has developed major problems such as extreme pollution. Because of the environment deterioration caused by FDI in certain regions, the government has put in place very strict laws that foreign investors are not necessarily aware of before setting up their business in China. While many countries in the world are facing an economic downturn, Chinas economy is still expecting to grow by 11% in 2010. However, Tse (2010) explains that despite this fact, the Chinese market is really tough. He explains how the recent clash of Google and the Chinese government; the vulnerability of property rights; the remaining restrictions on foreign ownershipà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ are good reasons that CEOs should take into account before deciding if entering China is a risk worth taking. The authors explain that the decision to physically enter China must be taken really carefully; a lot of research must be followed and more importantly companies must be ready to compromise and comply with Chinese laws. 2.2 Joint-ventures in China 2.2.1 Definition of a JV There is no legal definition of a JV in the literature. A JV is commonly defined as a partnership between two or more companies who create a legal entity to undertake economic activities. In this dissertation, the author focuses on international JV that necessarily includes two or more parties from different countries. Hollensen (2007) defines a JV as an equity partnership typically between two partners. It involves two parents creating a child acting in the market (Hollensen: 339). Figure 2: Equity Non-equity JVs by Hollensen (2007) A non-equity JV is defined by Hollensen as a strategic alliance between partners who do not commit equity or invest into the alliance. It is also called Contractual JV and does not involve the creation of a third entity. This form of JV will not be taken into account in this dissertation. Fung (2002) mentions that CJV were the vehicle of choice in the early opening of the Chinese market as it lowers the risks for the foreign partners. An EJV is a third entity formed by firm A and B. Both firms contribute equity to firm C. This form of JV allows international marketers to access complementary skills and resources, share risks and costs (Clarke Wilson, 2009). According to Hollensen (2007), the JV can be: resource-seeking and based on upstream collaboration (RD and production) market-seeking and based on downstream collaboration (marketing, distribution, sales, service) Both upstream and downstream-based collaboration 2.2.2 JVs in China It is widely reported in the literature that JV has been, from the opening of the Chinese market, a vehicle of choice. Yallapragada et al (2003) define JV in China as a sort of arranged marriage as the government provides a Chinese partner to the foreign investor. The authors mention that most of the JV failed and sustained huge losses or just abandoned the project because of the lack of understanding of the Chinese partner. EJV became increasingly important from 1987, representing more than 60% of all FDI. This tendency is now decreasing as the government encourages FDI in the form of wholly foreign-owned enterprises (Fung, 2002). The literature insists on the cultural differences leading to failure when forming a JV in China. However, there are many other factors to consider, the main important one being the law. The JV laws and regulation are different in China and in Western countries. Indeed, if we take the example of Europe, the regulations are different from a country to another: in France, a JV exists if a new juridical personality is created, has means and capital. In Anglo-Saxon law, a new created entity does not necessarily have juridical personality but is however considered a JV (ChinaOrbit.com). The country of origin of the foreign partner is an important determinant of success or failure of a Sino-foreign JV (Osborn Hagedoorn, 1997; Lin, 2004). Several case studies in the literature give example of the importance of country of origin as a determinant of IJV success in China. Those studies will be used as examples by the author to answer objectives 3 and 4 of the dissertation. The case studies include giants in the FB industry: Coca-Cola (Datamonitor, 2009; Mok, 2002), Pepsi-co (Yallapragada, 2003), Danone-Wahaha (Dickinson, 2009), Carrefour (Child, 2006). 2.3 Doing business with China 2.3.1 The cultural gap The unique culture of China is widely reported in the literature as being the main cause of failure for Sino-foreign JVs. It is really important to understand the Chinese culture before investing in China (Stark et al, 2005). Chinese business people are described as being extremely tough negotiators. Some authors in the literature think that negotiating is an art for Chinese business people (Pye, 1982; Lee Lo, 1988; Graham et al 1994). China has a really unique view of the world and if the foreign partner is ignorant of the other parties views of the world, it will create a major problem in the negotiation process (Stark, 2005). For example, Tuttle et al (2009) explain that business in China is more to serve the interest of the state rather than the owners of the business. Mc Kenna Sun (2007); Woo (1999); Herbig Martin (1998); Trombly (2006) and many other authors explain different aspect of Chinese negotiation such as the issues for women to participate in negotiations, the saving-face concept of China, the attitude to adopt when negotiating business (eg: building trust as a first step)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ The authors are only describing the Chinese way of doing business. In the framework of this dissertation those information can be used as tips for foreign investors willing to invest in China. Katz (2006), founder of Leadership Crossroads has had a successful experience in productive cooperation across cultures. He has interacted in China with employees, customers, outsourcing partnersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Katz describes in his book the best ways to negotiate international business with China. His study is based on his experience but also on the work of Trompenaar (1997) who divided culture into seven dimensions (Appendix 1). Once again the author describes the unique Chinese culture and the best ways to approach it in a business environment. Using both authors theories together with Hofestede cultural differences, the author will consider wether western culture, especially French culture give the firms an advantage in dealing with the Chinese as many studies shows that cultural misunderstanding causes major problems in IJVs. 2.3.2 GUANXI In the literature, some authors insist on the Guanxi concept when establishing business relationship with China. Zhu Zhang (2007), define Guanxi as the need to establish a relationship either with someone or something (e.g a brand-name). Guanxi mainly is a relationship building and according to the authors, it takes into account several notions: Jianli ganqing: developing connection between people Jiao pengyou: making friends Yanxuing touzi xingwei: continual investment behaviour Chinese business leaders such as Mr. Chang and Mr. Cao, CEOs of telecommunications companies based in Zhengzhou and Xian indicate that the action word for developing Guanxi is Jianli meaning establishing the connection with people but not forcing it by dishonest means. For some Chinese business people, Guanxi is an essential element when doing business in China and is strongly related to the Confucian tradition and collectivist culture (Xin Pearce, 1996). However, other authors in the literature have reported that even if Guanxi has long been the best approach to successfully set up an IJV in China the effect of Guanxi are not only positive. Rahman (2008) explain the risks that exist when establishing a Sino-foreign IJV based on Guanxi (high performance, resource and trade-off risks). The author reminds that Guanxi is necessary when collaborating with a Chinese partner but not sufficient. When a Western company chooses a local Chinese partner according to the size of its Guanxi, it will be beneficial for the companys short term goal of market entry, but its long term goal of succeeding in the IJV will encounter problems. Gu et al (2008) define Guanxi as the durable social connections and networks a firm uses to exchange favors for organisational purposes. The authors draw the benefits and risks of Guanxi and show that Guanxi can be necessary but does not always matter. Even if personal networks are popular all over the world, the authors insist on the uniqueness of China who has distinct ways of operation. 2.4 Critical literature conclusion The literature widely mentions that JV in China fails because of the huge cultural differences between China and the western partner. However, there is a gap in the literature as there are many other aspects that can cause failure and that are not deeply taken into account in the literature: law, bureaucratic roadblocks, corruption, management controlà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ The literature tends to concentrate on Sino-American/ Japanese/ British JVs, there is a lack of information about Sino-French JV and the primary research of this dissertation will mainly aim at filling this gap by focusing on the food beverage sector which is not widely reported in the literature. Moreover, the literature describes that ignorance of the other parties culture, regulations, the non-establishment of Guanxià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ are main causes of failure but fails to explain how a two-way dialogue can be established between Chinese and Western leaders to make the JV successful. The dissertation will also point-out what makes cross-cultural relationship successful as it is not clear in the literature. Chapter 3: Methodology 3.1 Data requirements To recap, the overall aim of the study is to acquire a better understanding of the Chinese business environment for a Western company to successfully set a JV up with a Chinese partner. After examining the literature review, the author has identified key research questions that will be answered in chapter 4 of the dissertation to meet the objectives stated in chapter 1: What makes a western MNE chose to deal with a Chinese partner to set up a JV in China? What factor is the most determinant: political, economic, demographic, labour (cost, productivity, education level), ease of access (market, suppliers) etc? What western investors should be aware of before setting up a JV in China in terms of legislation and regulation? Will the JV be private or state owned? What are the positive factors of setting up a JV in China (law, regulation, policies)? What are the negative factors that investors must be aware of to be best prepared? Why culture seem to be the main cause of JV failure? What western investors must know about the Chinese business culture? Does Guanxi always matter? How to overcome the cultural differences and set-up a two-way dialogue? What were the main causes of failure and KSF of Sino-French JVs? What contribution is put by each party in the JV? How each party value the JV? Is it more beneficial for the French firm to own more than the Chinese partner? To answer those questions, the author will analyse the existing academic literature, including articles and case studies that will be used to provide issues and/or solutions that exists in the food and beverage industry. Case studies such as PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Carrefour, etc. will be analysed. To feel the gap in the literature, the author will also implement real world researches to have an in-depth understanding of the Chinese culture and also, to have a better understanding of Sino-French business relationships as it is not widely reported in the literature. By this mean, the author will be able to collect major primary data provided by experts that have experience in doing business with China. 3.2 Research Design 3.2.1 Review of the fundamental research methodologies 3.2.1.a: Exploratory, causal and descriptive research Wrenn et al (2007) states that there are three main categories of research design: exploratory, causal and descriptive, the can use both qualitative and quantitative methods. An exploratory research design is used to gain more insight and understanding into a topic. It is described by some authors as a detective work when the author as to look for clues to find out what happened or is currently taking place. It required the author to adopt a very flexible attitude to collecting information. Wrenn et al (2007: 34) state that an insatiable curiosity is a valuable trait for exploratory researchers. This type of research is needed when the author has an objective of depth interviews, one of the best ways to acquire desired insight, clarificationsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Exploratory research is a type of qualitative research. A Causal research design is used when there is a need to determine whether two or more variables are causaly related and to what extent. When using causal research, the researcher manipulates the independent variable, measure the dependant variable and control other variables that could have an impact on the dependant variable. This type of research requires the use of quantitative research methods such as statistics (Chi-square analysis, correlation, regression testsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦). A descriptive research design seeks to describe a phenomenon. It is used when the researcher has an objective of describing the characteristics of a specific group, estimate the percentage of the population that act, thinkà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦the same way, make specific predictions (Wrenn et al, 2007). Descriptive research is the most rigid research design and needs to be very structured. This type of research implicates that the author already have a major knowledge of the topic or research. Descriptive research uses quantitative research methods. 3.2.1.b Qualitative v. Quantitative Qualitative research is defined by Schimdt Hollensen (2006) as an investigation to help understanding and answering questions by collecting evidences. This type of research method allows conducting exploratory researches and requires the use of: Observations: observing and analysing behaviours in their usual contexts Focus groups: group discussion to collect effective data about a group of individuals having the same cultural norms In-Depth interviews: usually individual face-to-face interview to understand what is in a specific persons mind about a specific topic Qualitative research allows the researcher to collect open-ended data and develop themes from the data collected. Quantitative research can be both descriptive and causal. Aliaga Gunderson (2002: 1) define quantitative research as explaining phenomena by collecting numerical data that are analysed using mathematically based methods (in particular statistics). Because quantitative research involves numbers, statistics it is seen as a more realist research method. Quantitative methods are good at looking at cause and effect relationships between two or more variables. The majority of researchers talk about paradigm war when it comes to differentiate qualitative and quantitative methods. They are seen as incompatible (Muijs, 2004). However, more and more commonly, researchers use mixed-method approach. It is a more pragmatic way to collect data, using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. In order for a mixed-method approach to be efficient, the researcher needs to consider all the relevant characteristics of both quantitative and qualitative methods. Table 1: Comparison of quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods QUANTITATIVE QUALITATIVE MIXED METHOD General Framework Aim at confirming a hypothesis about a phenomenon Predetermined Rigid style of categorising responses to questions Structured methods  : questionnaires, structured observfations, surveys. Aim at exploring and understanding a phenomenon Emerging Flexible style of categorising responses to questions Semi-structured methods  : participant observation, depth interviews, focus groups Both exploring and confirming a phenomenon Both predetermined and emerging Both rigid and flexible Both structured and semi structured methods Objectives of type of research Descriptive: To describe and quantify a phenomenon Causal  : to predict causal relationships To describe the characteristics of a population Explanatory  : To explain a phenomenon Exploratory  : to describe and explain relationships To report individual experiences To both quantify and describe a phenomenon To both causal and exploratory To both describe a population and an individual Question type Closed-ended Open-ended Both closed and open-ended questions Format of data Numerical data (statistical, assigning values to responses)  : performance, attitude, observational and census data Textual data from interviewees,observations, case studies analysis, video/audio tapes Multiple form of data drawing on all possibilities  : Statistical and text analysis Flexibility of each methods The response of participants does not influence which question is to be asked next The design of the study remains stable Subject to statistical assumptions and conditions The response of participants influences which research question to ask next Some aspects of the study are flexible  : wording (addition or exclusion) of a particualar interview Data collection and research questions are adjusted according to what is learnt Can be both flexible and rigid Table 1 has been realised following two authors theories: Creswell (2003) and Bernard (1995). According to them, it is useful to first consider qualitative and quantitative possibilities for data collection before selecting one, to which the dissertations author has added mixed-method approach. 3.2.2 Choice of research method and justification Desk research has first been used to collect information that already exists in the literature. This information was both internal and external to organizations and help having an in-depth understanding of the subject. Primary research has then been used to fill the gap that secondary research cannot fill. Quantitative methods have not been used as the author wants to explore the topic in depth. According to Muijs (2004), quantitative methods fail when an in depth understanding is needed, when the author wants to really get under the skin of a problem. Moreover, quantitative methods require the author to define the variables to be studied whereas in the authors topic area, unexpected variables can emerge. The author chose to use qualitative research only. Indeed, the dissertation topic requires to specifically knowing what is going on in peoples mind, what are their views and opinion about doing business in China. More specifically, exploratory research has been used as the author needs to gain broad inside into the dissertation topic and achieve a better feeling when investigating. According to Schimdt Hollensen (2006), the most used qualitative research method is focus-group. However, the author chose to make use of individual depth interviews as current information is needed by directly asking questions to specific persons. Depth interviews allow the respondent to openly talk about his/her experience of doing business with a Chinese partner. Depth Interviews can be: Non-directive: the respondent is given freedom to answer by staying within the bounds of the topic Semi-structured: a specific list of topics is covered. The author is looking to establish the meaning of Sino-western/French business relationships from the views of experts. Indeed, in order to understand those relationships better as the literature fails to explain it in depth, the author seeks to listen to different individuals who have experience in the topic area and build an understanding based on their ideas. 3. 3 Research Approach Conclusion Recommendation Diagram 1 shows the plan followed by the author. In stage 1, the author research academic literature in accordance with the topic and develop research questions. Stage 2 is an in-depth analysis of the existing literature to help answering the research questions developed in stage 1. Stage 3 is what the author called real world analysis. This stage will allow the author to collect primary data to fill the gap of secondary research and bring a creative thinking input to the dissertation. Stage 4 consists of an analysis of the theoretical findings and real world findings. By combining both secondary and primary research, the author will be able to answer the research questions and to meet the dissertations objectives. Those findings will then be discussed and the author will conclude by providing western investor with recommendation by drawing a model including all the variables to take into account to successfully set a JV up in China. 3.4 Data collection methods and analysis As mentioned above, the author chose to use exploratory qualitative research only. In exploratory research, the main methods of data collection that is potentially suitable for collecting data are observations, focus groups and depth interviews. Observation is used to understand a phenomenon by observing it in its natural setting. The topic area does not belong to a phenomenon that can be observed by the author. Focus group involves a group of persons that discuss a subject under the direction of a moderator. The author is willing to distinguish individuals as opposed to groups and have the opinion of individuals. The author has selected in-depth interviews as the only method for data collection. As mentioned earlier, this method involves conducting intensive individual interviews with a small number of persons. The reason is that the author wants detailed information about doing business with a Chinese partner, the different stages in the JV forming, the advantages, difficultiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Acquiring detailed information about a specific persons opinion, behaviour, will allow the author to explore new issues in-depth. The sample is divided in two categories and includes: Individuals having experience in doing business with China: executives from French MNEs having formed IJVs in China, Juniors working in China for a French company. Chinese business people. The author has divided the s

On Ibsens A Dolls House :: Ibsens A Dolls House

On Ibsen's A Doll's House Author: Ian Johnston Those of you who have just read A Doll's House for the first time will, I suspect, have little trouble forming an initial sense of what it is about, and, if past experience is any guide, many of you will quickly reach a consensus that the major thrust of this play has something to do with gender relations in modern society and offers us, in the actions of the heroine, a vision of the need for a new-found freedom for women (or a woman) amid a suffocating society governed wholly by unsympathetic and insensitive men. I say this because there is no doubt that A Doll's House has long been seen as a landmark in our century's most important social struggle, the fight against the dehumanizing oppression of women, particularly in the middle-class family. Nora's final exit away from all her traditional social obligations is the most famous dramatic statement in fictional depictions of this struggle, and it helped to turn Ibsen (with or without his consent) into an applauded or vilified champion of women's rights and this play into a vital statement which feminists have repeatedly invoked to further their cause. So in reading responses to and interpretations of this play, one frequently comes across statements like the following: Patriarchy's socialization of women into servicing creatures is the major accusation in Nora's painful account to Torvald of how first her father, and then he, used her for their amusement. . . how she had no right to think for herself, only the duty to accept their opinions. Excluded from meaning anything, Nora has never been subject, only object. (Templeton 142). Furthermore, if we go to see a production of this play (at least among English-speaking theatre companies), the chances are we will see something based more or less on this interpretative line: heroic Nora fighting for her freedom against oppressive males and winning out in the end by her courageous final departure. The sympathies will almost certainly be distributed so that our hearts are with Nora, however much we might carry some reservations about her leaving her children. Now, this construction certainly arises from what is in the play, and I don't wish to dismiss it out of hand. However, today I would like to raise some serious question about or qualifications to it. I want to do so because this vision of A Doll's House has always struck me as oversimple, as, in some sense, seriously reductive, an approach that removes from the play much of its complexity and almost all its mystery and power. On Ibsen's A Doll's House :: Ibsen's A Doll's House On Ibsen's A Doll's House Author: Ian Johnston Those of you who have just read A Doll's House for the first time will, I suspect, have little trouble forming an initial sense of what it is about, and, if past experience is any guide, many of you will quickly reach a consensus that the major thrust of this play has something to do with gender relations in modern society and offers us, in the actions of the heroine, a vision of the need for a new-found freedom for women (or a woman) amid a suffocating society governed wholly by unsympathetic and insensitive men. I say this because there is no doubt that A Doll's House has long been seen as a landmark in our century's most important social struggle, the fight against the dehumanizing oppression of women, particularly in the middle-class family. Nora's final exit away from all her traditional social obligations is the most famous dramatic statement in fictional depictions of this struggle, and it helped to turn Ibsen (with or without his consent) into an applauded or vilified champion of women's rights and this play into a vital statement which feminists have repeatedly invoked to further their cause. So in reading responses to and interpretations of this play, one frequently comes across statements like the following: Patriarchy's socialization of women into servicing creatures is the major accusation in Nora's painful account to Torvald of how first her father, and then he, used her for their amusement. . . how she had no right to think for herself, only the duty to accept their opinions. Excluded from meaning anything, Nora has never been subject, only object. (Templeton 142). Furthermore, if we go to see a production of this play (at least among English-speaking theatre companies), the chances are we will see something based more or less on this interpretative line: heroic Nora fighting for her freedom against oppressive males and winning out in the end by her courageous final departure. The sympathies will almost certainly be distributed so that our hearts are with Nora, however much we might carry some reservations about her leaving her children. Now, this construction certainly arises from what is in the play, and I don't wish to dismiss it out of hand. However, today I would like to raise some serious question about or qualifications to it. I want to do so because this vision of A Doll's House has always struck me as oversimple, as, in some sense, seriously reductive, an approach that removes from the play much of its complexity and almost all its mystery and power.