Abstract This paper explains that boxing is beginning to lose some of its appeal to younger audiences, who, having been raised on bloodthirsty video games and extreme sports, and are hankering for more action and more violence than can be seen in the traditional boxing ring. The paper further explains that the growing interest in MMA sports not only wreaks havoc on its participants but on the boxing industry as well; not only is boxing losing fans to MMA but it is losing some of its leaders and participants as well. The paper then discusses some of the reasons for the appeal of MMA sports and concludes that, in the end, it remains to be seen what the future holds for both sports but most fans are hoping that neither becomes a permanent casualty.
From the Paper "Controversy is perhaps another reason for the growing popularity of MMA, as it has certainly had its share of media attention and heated discussion. Boxing, which has been around for centuries, has always sparked controversy about its violent nature as well, but when something fresh and innovative enters the scene, people are quick to forget the old and concentrate on the new. As we all know, the more controversial something is, the more popular it is likely to be."
Tags:combattoughmanindustry, human cockfighting, stars
This paper examines Norman Mailer's novel "The Naked and the Dead" in which the author incorporates the symbols, characters and narrative conventions of the WWII combat genre.
Abstract This paper details the introduction and perception of the WWII combat genre in both film and literature. The writer of this paper defines genre as an element consisting of a shared set of rules, symbols and story patterns. In Norman Mailer's novel, "The Naked and the Dead," the author engages the symbols, characters and narrative conventions of the combat genre in a complex dialogue, both enmeshing and reinforcing audience expectations. By tracing the minority character of Martinez in "The Naked and the Dead," one can see how Mailer incorporates the genre in a way that reflects both the unique capacities of the novel as a medium separate from that of film. This paper also expands on Mailer's particular view of film as an inadequate representation of the complexities of war and America. The writer of this paper contends that Mailer's novel must be read in the context of the combat film genre, which was well established in the memory of American audiences by 1948 as a frame of reference for understanding and justifying WWII. This paper clearly details the characteristics of Martinez which fits the conventional stereotype evolved from and established within the genre of the World War II combat film. The writer also discusses the significance of various WWII related films that were released in the 1940s including: "Bataan," "GI Joe" and "Home of the Brave."
From the Paper "The multiracial platoon acts as a symbol of democracy, functioning to distinguish Americans from a racist enemy, the Nazis. At the same time, the visual presence of minorities helps to legitimize 'good' racism (racism against the Japanese) by framing it with images of racial integration. Feigning inclusion of minorities is also a propaganda tactic aiming to harness collective support for the war. In Bataan there are four minorities: a Mexican-American, two Philipinos and a black man. The Philipinos are associated with nature; they are implicitly more primitive and closer to the enemy. The Mexican-American is associated with jazz music and a womanizing past, and the black man is associated with spirituality. All four characters die fairly early on in horrible barbaric deaths. In later movies, some or all of these characteristics may be lumped together into composite minority representatives."
Tags: literature, analysis, perception, film, industry, u.s., history, world, war, two
Abstract The demographics of the national defense industry are discussed, including the size of the defense forces and their mission. The major factors facing the aerospace industry today, such as the lack of funds for research and development of new technologies and the loss of U.S. superiority in space, are outlined.
From the Paper "In the area of national defense, there are two major demographic forces at work. A primary worry is the number of people serving in the armed services, and their missions. An armed service prepared mainly for peacekeeping missions is one very different from one prepared for combat, and today, most of our military force is primarily regarded as a peacekeeping force. Many also believe the military should somehow represent the demographics of our society, which is not always possible or necessary.
Adding to that stress is the notion of some that the U.S. military must replicate society, responding to a variety of domestic demographic and social issues. To presume that the military must replicate society is, we believe, another dangerous notion. While the military must represent society, it cannot replicate society without eroding the very basis of the military's purpose and cohesion (Sarkesian and Connor 435)."
Tags: peacekeeping, combat, military, space, army, funding, space, satellites, power
Abstract In this essay, the writer looks at the issue of women serving in military combat units. The writer discusses that a glance at American history shows that on the whole the idea of women serving overseas in combat zones was not a generally approved of notion. The writer points out, however, that women have served successfully in combat units in recent conflicts.
From the Paper "For most of American history, the idea of women serving overseas in combat zones had been rejected nearly unanimously by the American public and the American military. Men didn't think women should fight, and most women were in agreement, due to inherently conservative social and moral views on the role of women in society. Historically, the appropriateness and wisdom of women serving in combat has been an issue of considerable controversy for many years, but they have served with great distinction in recent conflicts, and support for unrestricted roles for women in combat units is increasing."
Abstract The paper refers to a well-known advertisement from the diamond industry which emphasizes that diamonds are forever, but the marketing may be superfluous because the demand for diamonds in the United States remains strong today. The paper notes that many observers, though, suggest that the diamond industry in the United States is being manipulated by international terrorist organizations to fund their operations at home and abroad. Others suggest that the market is being unfairly controlled by the major players in the diamond industry to keep supplies low to maintain current pricing levels. The paper provides the background and an overview of the global diamond industry, followed by some salient facts concerning this industry. The paper discusses the most and least dominant firms (in terms of size, investments and income) in the diamond industry which is followed by an analysis of how major players in the industry collude to keep diamond supplies on the world market low and prices high. A summary of the research and important findings are presented in the conclusion.
Outline:
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Facts about the International Diamond Industry Most and Least Dominant Firms in the Diamond Industry Conclusion
From the Paper " The Central Selling Organization (CSO) buys the rough from mines owned or controlled by De Beers, from cartel members, and also from independent producers. As a result, much of world production flows through the CSO to be sorted, valued, and ultimately resold" . By sharp contrast, perhaps the least dominant firm in the diamond industry, especially in the United States, is the Crater of Diamonds State Park located in near Murfreesboro, Arkansas, the only diamond mine in the country that allows the public, for a modest price, to dig for and keep the diamonds they find. Other firms in the United States involved in the diamond industry include the New York Diamond Dealers Club, which is a 2000-member private organization for site holders, manufacturers, wholesalers, and brokers".
Abstract This paper deals with the issue of the industrial revolution and it's impact on American woodworking. The paper discusses pre-industrial revolution times, what happened during the industrial revolution and tells what is in the future of American woodworking.
From the paper:
"The Industrial Revolution had a tremendous impact on American woodworking. It took woodworking from little shops in villages to huge industrial factories within large cities throughout America. The Industrial Revolution also changed the tools used in woodworking and altered production methods as well. "This was a period in history when new inventions changed the way that people built things and changed where people worked and how they lived" (Industrial Revolution Booklet, 1998, p.1)."
Abstract This paper describes the automobile industry in detail. It explains who are the major companies, competition for consumers and the future improvements in transportation. It examines the major issues of the industry, technology and the environment impact on the industry.
Table of Contents
I. Industry Background
II. Who are the key players and how do they compete in the market?
III. What are the dynamics of competition?
IV. Power of Buyers
V. Power of Suppliers
VI. What is the industry's driving forces?
VII. Industry Trends
VIII. Market Leaders
IX. What will it take to remain successful?
X. Summary
From the Paper "In the economy of the world, the automotive industry is amongst the biggest industries. ?It produces more trips each day, each week, each year than any other mode of transportation. No other mode of transportation attracts as many consumer dollars, employs as many workers, consumes as much steel, glass, and rubber, and has a greater impact on the country's economy and society.? Of the ten biggest corporations listed in Fortune Magazine's list of Global 500 for 2001, four of them were from the automobile industry. They were General Motors(GM), Ford Motor Corporation, DaimlerChrysler, and Toyota Motors and the revenues they generated was $183,632.00, $180.598.00, $150,069.7, and $121,416.2 billion respectively. The aggregate here is an astounding $635,715.9 billion. Besides these companies, there are numerous other smaller automakers such as Honda and Hyundai that possess smaller market shares. In the year 2000 the US automobile industry sold an amazing 17.4 million vehicles and beat 1999's record by 500,000! The growth in the industry during this period was attributed to the growing economy, increased consumer confidence, and rising disposable income. However, that was in 2000 and although the automotive industry continues to maintain a dominant presence in the world, the next couple of years seem to be a real challenge. Gigantic automakers such as GM, Ford, and DaimlerChrysler are loosing market share and their performance is on the decline. As other companies compete for more market share amidst economic difficulties, the bigger corporations are being severely affected. ?All three automakers (GM, Ford, DaimlerChrysler) faced significant weakness in the summer months (01) due to slower economic growth, lower consumer spending, and higher unemployment.? The only certainty during these uncertain times is that trends are changing. The economy has definitely slowed down, competition is no longer what it was historically, and there have been changes attributed to the industry's driving forces. All these differences for the better or for the worse will factor in to produce the leaders of tomorrow."
Abstract This paper mainly discusses the post-industrial society and the transition process from industrial to post-industrial society. By using the articles and the ideas of Castells, Bell, Negri and Hardt, the writer explains how the post-industrial society has emerged, and predicts the shape of post-industrial society in future. The writer also tries to construct his own point of view about the post-industrial society and explains the reason why he calls post-industrial society a digital society.
From the Paper "Post-industrial society is a conception of late 20th century, which simply emphasizes the declining dependence of the societies on mass manufacturing industry and the increasing roles of service sector, knowledge and information technologies in production. By contrast the industrial society, which precedes post-industrial society, refers to the mass production (factory-based) as the dominant form of production. I think the best definition regarding post-industrial era has come from Daniel Bell, who is also considered as the father of post-industrial society. He suggests that post industrial society includes the birth and growth of a knowledge class, change from goods to service sectors and change from blue-collar to white-collar occupations. For him, all of these could be based on an increasing dependence on science as a means of innovation as well as a means of technical and social change."
Tags: globalization, industrial, post, society, sociology, digital, production, communication, network
Abstract This paper is based on the airline industry and discusses a brief history of this industry, an industry overview, and a SWOTT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats, and Trends) analysis of the industry. It also addresses the impact of real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the unemployment rate, and the inflation rate as measured by the consumer price index (CPI). The paper includes three economic indicators.
History of the Industry Industry Overview
SWOTT
Gross Domestic Product
Unemployment Rate
Inflation Rate
Economic Indicators
In-depth Analysis
Final Recommendations
From the Paper "Business travel still plays a significant role in the airline industry. Although many advents in business communications technology have evolved, something remains to be said about the quality and quantity of business conducted in face-to-face meetings. Competition for business travelers is intense with legacy carriers and low-cost carriers vying for revenue. Today, the financial benefit is in the business community's favor although it is expected that in late 2005 excess capacity consumption will allow the airlines to begin charging higher fares (National Business Travel Association)."
Abstract The paper examines the chances that there is or perhaps will be a labor shortage within the staffing industry in the United States economy. The paper explains that this is not an easy question to probe as the relationship that the staffing industry occupies within the economy is complex and at times very uncertain. The paper shows how in some ways the staffing industry actually responds counter intuitively to changes in the economy. Recession, while damaging to all industries, can be extremely beneficial to the staffing industry in the quarters immediately following the end of the recession as other industries are tentative.
From the Paper "The staffing industry is currently one of the greatest growth industries in the country and one of the few that has quickly managed to reassert itself in spite of the recent recession in 2001. In fact, most economists and business analysts recognize that the staffing industry is poised to become a major new part of the new U.S. economy."
Abstract This paper provides an overview of the automotive industry. The paper discusses For Motors' agreement to sell its Land Rover and Jaguar lines over to Tata Motors. The paper then discusses shifts in the industry, including green initiative being taken within the automobile industry. The paper then goes on to examine the direction of the industry, which includes facts and figures regarding the sales of vehicles over the last two years and future sales predictions.
Outline:
Overview
Shifts in the Industry Direction of the Industry
From the Paper "On the financial front, Ford Motors has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Jaguar and Land Rover operations to Tata Motors. The Indian auto giant has agreed to pay approximately $2.3 billion for full ownership of the flagship luxury brands. As part of the transaction, Ford will continue to provide engineering support, including research and development, plus information technology and accounting. The company will certainly feel the financial benefits of the deal, as in the wake of the economic downturn Ford has experienced combined losses of over $15 billion during the past two years. (MW 2) This is an attempt at Ford at capitalizing upon the globalization of the industry."
Abstract This paper looks at all aspects of the computer industry, and its importance in our everyday lives. The author looks at the makeup of the current industry by examining several components - new entrants into the industry, the threat of substitutes, the bargaining power of buyers, as well as the bargaining power of the supplier's of the industry's basic materials.
From the Paper "After examining the supplier's and buyer's bargaining power we need to look at the competition. In this industry there are only a few key competitors. Dell, Gateway, IBM, Compaq and HP (soon to be one entity), and Apple are the main rivals in this industry, and the competition is fierce. Dell and Gateway have been the most innovative by including the "just-in-time" manufacturing to meet consumers specific needs, and HP and Compaq are going to merge, becoming the largest computer/printer producing company around. All of these computers are hard to decipher because of there high compatibility with each other (not Apple). The only thing that really sets them apart are their prices and reputation."
Abstract This paper studies the plastic surgery industry in the United States. It focuses on breast implants and face lifts. It describes the history of the field and discusses the current techniques. The paper contends that cosmetic surgery has become a multi-billion dollar industry and involves many more average Americans than stars and wealthy patients. The industry is thriving despite the controversy over the breast implant surgery and the future looks very profitable. The paper concludes that the industry of plastic surgery will continue to thrive and prosper in the future, especially in the United States.
From the Paper "Until several decades ago plastic surgery was reserved for the very wealthy and Hollywood movie stars. They would go into hiding, and come out a few weeks later looking younger than they did before. Everyone knew something had been lifted or tucked but it was rarely vocalized in public. Then the breast implant market hit the scene and the plastic surgery industry exploded into a Mecca of revenue and business. Women between 18 and 80 were rushing to have their breasts enlarged. Once this became an accepted practice it was not long before the "average" person was taking vacation time from work to have a face-lift. Cosmetic surgery has become a multi-billion dollar industry and involves many more average Americans than stars and wealthy patients. The industry is thriving even given the controversy over the breast implant surgery and the future looks very profitable. "
Tags: Plastic, Cosmetic, surgery, Hollywood, face, lift, breast, implant, United, States, industry
Abstract This study was undertaken with a purpose of analyzing and making recommendations based on the analysis of situation and strategy identified within the mountain bicycle industry. In particular, close attention is paid to Cannondale Corporation, the leading manufacturer and marketer of high-performance aluminium bicycles and its immediate rivals. Assessment of the nature and strength of competitive forces in the mountain bike industry is based on the five factors analysis and allow to identify key success factors that are a must for survival and profitability of any company that operates in the mountain bicycle industry. A graphical representation of current rivals allows to judge strength of the competition in the industry and influence the choice of alternatives and eventual recommendations for Cannondale corporation.
From the Paper "The global bicycle industry, including bicycles, parts and accessories, is estimated to have total retail sales in excess of $20 billion. The bicycle-manufacturing segment of the industry produces approximately 100 million units per annum. The global market for bikes is reported to be dominated by just a few big players, many of whom seem to bounce from owner to owner, and from cash crisis to cash crisis, on a distractingly regular basis. (bikebiz.com). Even though people seem to be "saturated" with bicycles and the mountain bike boom is proclaimed to be over (bikebiz.com), comments of the cyclist community allow to conclude that the industry's and segment's decline is not likely. It was also noted that the worldwide cycling industry is waiting for the "next big thing" in cycling which will likely shift position of major players in the industry if they can't keep up with the trend."
A look at the questionably bleak future for the cruise line industry following the September 11th attacks, in context of the tourism industry as a whole.
Abstract This paper claims that while the immediate future looks not too promising for this industry, the long term looks good. Three main reasons for this statement are given. First, the cruise line industry has been a leader in the steady growth being experienced by the entire travel segment for the last ten years. Second, the industry is seeing expanding markets in Europe and new markets emerging in Asia. The third reason to expect long term growth is that the cruise lines are now offering their customers a wider variety packages at different lengths and price ranges. This has helped them to expand their market into lower income level clients. An overview of the market is provided.
From the Paper "The key strengths of the cruise line industry are its high desirability among consumers. Cruises appeal to the American public's sense of adventure. The second strength is that cruise lines have shown a great ability to adapt their product to meet popular social trends and expand into untapped markets. The recent trend to offer a wider variety of entertainments and the recent popularity of "Theme Cruises" has been a valuable asset. The offering of various priced cruises is also evidence of the industry's ability to adapt and as a result expand their market. The expansion into foreign market is further evidence of this strength. The cruise line industry has demonstrated the ability to not only identify new markets, but to capture them as well. A third strength is that the cruise line industry operates at 100% capacity (Farley, 2000). In order to expand their market cruise lines need only to build more ships. "
Tags: 911, ship, tourist, cruise, industry, holiday, investment, market, entertainment
