Abstract This paper explores the topic of media convergence. It discusses the question whether or not convergence will allow newspapers to recapture their readership, or if their content will play a bigger factor. The paper argues that with the Internet and more, cheaper, alternative mediums, it is now much easier to have an active competition in contrast to previous newspaper monopolies. The competition allows for richer content that will attract more viewers away from traditional sources.
From the Paper "Newspapers in North America have been adopting an open strategy of convergence in recent years. Once the dominant news source, they have been overtaken by television and increasingly the Internet. Concerned with profit margins, they are moving ever further into the realm of television, cell phones, the Internet and other media. The goal of the newspapers is to recapture lost audiences. However, this paper will argue that it is not just alternative mediums of technology, but the content of the news that will ultimately determine their ability to recapture readership. In recent years newspaper readership has been on a decline, while recent decades have been marked by the consolidation of the newspaper industry into fewer hands."
Abstract This paper discusses the basis of convergence in newspapers as overwhelmed by the massive competition that such a large database of free information creates in this marketing strategy. The paper discusses the effectiveness of this marketing tool of advertising and suggests reasons why it may not be as effective as desired.
From the Paper "Mass Communications: Understanding the Marketing Strategy of Convergence in the Newspaper Industry In this mass communications study the marketing strategy of convergence will be analyzed within the scope of the modern newspaper industry. The growing information sources and efficiency of the Internet has been a marketing strategy for print newspaper companies that wish to find a broader audience base. The success of this approach has been varied in the manner in which newspapers market their articles and news sources. In essence, the extremely broad scope of information that is now available on the Internet is a problematic, yet marketable source for newspapers that wish to attract various readerships to their news articles and stories."
A critical analysis of the convergence-divergence debate in international management and human resource management and a consideration of globalisation critiques and alternative theories.
Abstract This paper examines how a critical issue in international and comparative human resource management (HRM) studies concerns the perception that "globalisation" is creating convergence (or contingency) in business and industrial relations practices. It looks at how academic debate centres on the crucial argument of whether convergence is an increasing phenomenon, fuelled by globalisation, or, in reality, the opposite is true ? that national cultures and institutions are a unique force for perpetuating diversity and divergence. Consideration is given to contemporary sources that analyse the convergence-divergence debate in HRM and international management.
From the Paper "The convergence perspective originated from the work of Kerr et al (1960), which stated that organisations? use of functional specialisation would increasingly create a convergent dynamic for business ? leading to a common structuring of the workforce within and across countries, based on technological changes and work systems. Beardwell and Holden (2001) note the convergent similarities in car production plants worldwide, echoing the findings of Mueller and Purcell (1992), that see globalising forces as a key factor in converging operational and management processes. Ritzer (1998) also applies the convergent paradigm to his studies into fast-food businesses and society. "The McDonaldization Thesis" illustrates the way multinationals use and perpetuate convergence in order to homogenise working practices, business processes and human resource management for increased economies of scale and competitive advantage."
Presents a complete research paper to investigate neo-convergence in the Indian Constitution in the areas of constitutional amendments and human rights.
Abstract This paper hypothesizes that the current attempts of making structural changes in legal systems, especially constitutions, are a result of economic globalization and is different from the earlier existing forms of influences on constitution-making. The writer explains that the selected methodologies of case study and qualitative analysis present two dimensions viz. experience of nations in responding to convergence attempts and executive and judicial responses to human rights. To make Indian society functional in the future, the paper concludes, it is imperative that its present constitution be revised or altogether rewritten.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Unconstitutional Constitutional Amendments: Definition and Theory
Unconstitutional Constitutional Amendments: A Definition
Unconstitutional Constitutional Amendments and Liberal Democracy
India's Basic Structure.
Problem Statement and Hypothesis
Hypothesis
Objectives and Methodology
Objectives
Methodology
Convergence and Neo-Convergence Explained
The Concept, Politics and Future of Constitutional Amendment in India
Why Focus on the Constitutional Amendment
Amendment Politics, Constitutional Change and the Social Revolution
Reforming the Constitution: Towards Liberalization or Human Rights?
Recent Developments in the Constitutional Amendment and Indian Judiciary
Conclusion
From the Paper "The political economy of "socialism" has triggered important constitutional amendments to achieve the desired goals of the social revolution: The 1st Amendment created the 9th schedule, the 7th Amendment introduced new land laws, expropriations following the 17th Amendment were struck down by the Golak Nath decision, correspondingly the 24th, 25th and 27th amendment diluted Golak Nath while the 42nd amendment overrode Kesavananda. Liberalization policies, so far, have neither translated into mass politics nor into a constitutional reform debate."
Abstract This paper is written about the short story of Flannery O'Connor's "Everything that Rises Must Converge". The title relates to how a person must choose to change or they will be knocked down.
Abstract This paper explains that "The Convergence of the Twain" by Thomas Hardy reflects mankind's over confidence in ship building. The author points out society's arrogance reflected in the luxury and extravagance that the Titanic symbolized in her wreckage. The paper relates that in the sinking of the Titanic, Hardy presents a metaphysical yet morally challenging idea of human achievement in sea faring history.
From the Paper "This literary critique will seek to understand stanzas within the poem "The Convergence of the Twain" by Thomas Hardy. By analyzing stanza III, stanza X and stanza XI of this poem, one can realize possibly stronger clarity in composition in relating the idea of vanity within the Titanic's tragic sinking. In essence, this poem will be critically To glass the opulent The sea worm crawls--grotesque, slimed, dumb, indifferent" (Hardy 7-9) In this stanza the object of mirrors to glass the opulent appears to suggest that vanity mirrors of many of the wealthy patrons on-board the Titanic now reflect indignation and repulsion of luxury items. However, when discussing mirrors, one can also get images of deep-sea ocean reflections or the glassy movement of the 'victorious waters' over the ship."
Abstract This paper explains that Larry Lauden in his article 'A Confutation of Convergent Realism' formulates an argument against scientific realism from the perspective of pessimistic induction. The author points out that Lauden rightly states that other philosophers' suggestions that epistemological realism is an empirical hypothesis, which is authenticated by its ability to explain the workings of science, is becoming a significant problem. The paper presents Lauden's methods of attack from which he tackles this assumption of reference and demonstrates how the historical, empirical evidence simply does not exist to support the realist claims. The author concludes that Lauden's debunking of scientific realism via their epistemological dependence on reference and retention is a useful and effective method of philosophical analysis.
From the Paper "Scientific realism is, most basically, the idea that "[m]ature scientific theories are (approximately true." Lauden delves into the meat of this basic statement by dissecting realism into bite-sized chunks that can be more easily analyzed and (in this case) refuted. While Lauden does debunk various aspects of scientific realism, one aspect of it with which he is particularly concerned is the matter of reference. Lauden lists five characteristics of convergent epistemological realism, which he has aggregated from the available resources on scientific realism."
Abstract This essay describes symbolic convergence theory, postulated by Ernest Bormann and used in group (especially small group) interaction and activity. The paper points out that, quite often in the business, political or social world several individuals with different backgrounds, aptitudes and preferences are asked to work together in a group. The theory addresses these kinds of situations. The paper concludes that the theory is somewhat too simple and limited to be anything else than an intuitive observation, with no potential for development and no real essential reflection on communication or group work.
From the Paper "An important characteristic of the fantasy that needs to be shared with the group is that it needs to belong outside the group and, in this sense, outside the idea that is shared or discussed with the group. The respective fantasy shared by one of the individuals is supposed to be able to trigger a similar reaction from the other members of the group and increase cohesion. As such, someone else from the group might remember that it's also the birthday of a member of his own family and he will share this with the group. This creates a symbolic convergence that will help increase the convergence of the group and helps "build a sense of community or a group consciousness" (Young, 1998; from Griffin, 1997)."
Abstract This paper first defines the concept of fractionalization, describes how it relates to the television, magazine, and radio industries and provides examples. It then gives an opinion regarding the effect of fractionalization both on the media and on society. Secondly, this work defines the concept of globalization, describes how it relates to the television, recording and film industries and provides examples. The following questions are answered of "What is the effect of globalization on the cultures of the world? What is the political effect of globalization? Who does it benefit? Who does it harm?". The answers are backed up with opinions on the subjects. Lastly, this work defines the concept of convergence, describes how it relates to the television, Internet and recording industries and then answers the questions of: "How would convergence affect our daily lives? Would it be positive or negative for our society?"
Outline:
Objective
I. Fractionalization and Its' Relation to Television, Magazine and Radio Industries
II. What is the Effect of Globalization on the Cultures of the World?
III. What is the Political Effect of Globalization?
IV. Who Does It Benefit/Harm?
V. Definition of Convergence VI. How Would Convergence Affect Our Daily Lives?
VII. Would it be Positive or Negative for our Society?
Works Cited
From the Paper "There are inherent benefits naturally for societies integrating through sharing of knowledge however on a business level the smaller business are being ingested by the larger companies in the form of acquisitions that the small business owners are unfortunately giving in to. Globalization benefits business with lower costs and better supplies as well as more markets. The benefits to developing countries are in the form of the creation of jobs and tax revenues. Developed countries benefits are in relation to production increase, import/export as well as growth on a corporate level. Globalization has unfortunately affected wages lowering them while jobs are outsourced and there is evidence economic uncertainly due to globalization for many.
Opinion:
While it is true that globalization does benefit bigger big business and promotes political agendas, as well it allow for sharing of knowledge in medicine and sustainability measures and other critical information. Globalization has been both positive and negative for today's society."
Abstract This paper reports that a preliminary assessment of the impact of economic globalization and the proliferation of the free market economy indicates that constitutions of nations are directly or indirectly influenced by globalization. Whereas the earlier model of convergence was transcendence of the principles of constitutionalism and human rights, the author uses the model of neo-convergence as as a corollary to the economic globalization as the hypothesis for the proposed dissertation. The paper indicates that a qualitative methodology will be used and describes the plan of study.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Convergence and Neo-convergence Explained
Problem Statement and Hypothesis
Hypothesis
Objectives and Methodology
Objectives
Methodology
Plan of study
Chapter Outline
From the Paper "Convergence in the constitutions of the past phase is most glaring in the post-colonial nations. The organization of states in Europe, the nations liberated from the colonial and despotic regimes, could be identified as having homogenized fundamental principles in developing their Constitutions. The principles of constitutionalism and its perceived universal character were the driving force for unification strategies in the early phase of convergence. Rule of law, separation of powers, limited government, entrenched rights and independence of judiciary were the major features that sought replication."
Tags: reform harmonization post-colonial historical, case study
Abstract This research assignment views different aspects of the convergence of information technology systems. Some features related to the convergence of technology into a company, namely Oticon, have also been viewed.
Table of Contents
I. Introduction to Information Technology Systems
II. Reply to Oticon Questions
III. Convergence of Information Technology Systems
IV. Conclusion
From the Paper "Information technology Systems or ITS can be defined as the computers and communications hardware and software, which are used to automate and supplement secretarial, managerial, and managing errands in businesses and large wide spread corporations (A Glossary of Computer and Communications Jargon). It is "the use of hardware, software, services, and supporting infrastructure to manage and deliver information using voice, data, and video" (Policy and Planning)."
Abstract This paper discusses good governance of institutions, focusing on social enterprise strategy for rural development. The paper looks into underlying concepts and dimensions of governance. It then discusses the role of the state, the private sector, and civil society in governance in order to understand points of convergence for operating good governance strategies. The paper emphasizes the need to evolve institutions as elemental units for carrying out good governance strategies. Finally, the paper provides a case-in-point - the Local Convergence Initiative for Agrarian Reform and Rural Development (LCIARRD).
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction And Conceptual Framework
Discussion And Review Of Related Literature
Pre-conditions of Good Governance
Essential Actors
The Social Enterprise Alternative
Case-In-Point: The Local Convergence Initiative for Agrarian Reform
and Rural Development (LCIARRD)
Results and Lessons
Synthesis: Imperatives Of Institutions Of Participatory Governance
Conclusion
From the Paper "Thirdly, critical to all these relational and collaborative institutional platforms that form the important elements and agents of governance and good governance at that, is the establishment and strengthening of mutual accountability and trust. Notable in the preceding case was the reluctance by farmers to contribute their equity and the seeming "risk-aversive" behavior by farmers due perhaps to long experienced cycle of lack of predictability of government policies if not utter neglect thereof in many of the governments half-hearted agricultural intervention programs. Hence, the platform of local convergence initiatives seeks to address this gap by establishing a platform where these key players can work effectively to achieve individual goals and institutionally set development objectives in a way that provides for mutual accountability and building of trust, which is a potent exercise that could be microcosmic of the wider governance environment."
Abstract This paper reviews the four general theories of communication: system, cognitive dissonance, symbolic convergence and Burke's dramatism. The paper presents the history and evolution on each theory and then provides a real-life example of the theory's application. Outline: System Theory Cognitive Dissonance Symbolic Convergence Burke's Dramatism
From the Paper "General theories are universal explanations which account for broad classes of events. General theories are similar to theories developed in the natural and physical sciences. General theories attempt to provide accounts of human communication behavior based upon generalized regularities. Thus, general theories may be applicable and relevant to many different groups and cultures, across many times. A general theory has as much usefulness in predicting and/or explaining the communication of an American as it does an Australian. As general theories are not time bound, the propositions which undergrid the theory might be as true today, or fifty years from now, as they were fifty or one hundred years ago."
Abstract This paper discusses macroeconomic issues, such as the types of convergence that exists. It focuses its discussion on the Sub-Saharan Africa region and describes its structural difficulties in implementing economic reforms. Finally, the paper examines the issues surrounding the East Asian financial crisis (or IMF crisis) that occurred in 1997.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Convergence Sub-Saharan Africa
East Asian Financial Crisis
From the Paper "South Korea, by this example, had average gross domestic product (GDP) rates of over 8% and this, combined with huge inflows of investment capital had given South Korea the veneer of an unassailable economic success (Chun & Kirkby, 2002, p.82). Yet, underlying the financial crisis among the affected countries were vast current account deficits that were simply not sustainable as well as a system of pegged exchange rates that encourage speculative behavior both internally and externally. In spite of the attention being paid to foreign speculators as well as to heavy borrowing by the countries themselves in order to support the system of pegged currencies, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) received much of the blame as well as ire due to its handling of the crisis."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses, and analyzes three poems "Ode on a Grecian Urn" by John Keats; "The Convergence of the Twain" by Thomas Hardy; and "Fern Hill" by Dylan Thomas. Specifically, it identifies the common theme in these three poems, which is time. Time stops in all three poems for various reasons, and adds to the impact of each poem in a special way.
From the Paper "In "Ode on a Grecian Urn," Keats is celebrating the past, stopped in time for a moment on an ancient Grecian urn. Time stands still on the urn, and all the people depicted on it are caught in a fleeting moment of time. Nothing around them can ever change, from the trees, to their love, to their age. "Thy song, nor ever can those trees be bare; / Bold Lover, never, never canst thou kiss, / Though winning near the goal yet, do not grieve; /She cannot fade, though thou hast not thy bliss, / For ever wilt thou love, and she be fair!" (Keats 16-20)."
Tags: thomas, time, fern, hill, hardy, convergence, twain, keats, grecian, urn
