Short and long term returns on overseas market Essay

Short and long term returns on overseas market - Essay Example Many firms, like large oil or chemical companies, operate in industries with large economies of scale and their operations spill across national boundaries simply to be competitive. Cost considerations (e.g. transport) are important in choosing whether to increase exports or invest overseas. Equally tariff barriers to trade can encourage direct investment, but non-tariff barriers are also important. Many services are not exportable in any direct sense and have to be delivered in the overseas market through direct investment. They need to respond to the changing demand considerations of overseas markets - especially where product specifications are different from the home market. This may make it sensible to locate closer to the main centres of demand, to enable easier adaptation without disruption to production in the domestic market. Other disincentives to direct trade could be that competition takes place on grounds other than price and quality of output. For example, competition in some product markets may be mainly in terms of after sales service. Most direct investment, as with trade, occurs between similar industrial countries. direct investments will take place without displacing trade. They may even encourage greater trade flows, because intermediate inputs of production will need to be exported to support the overseas plants. In this instance, as in some others, direct investment is complementary to trade. On other occasions, it may substitute for it. Another explanation for overseas investment with parallels in trade theory is a version of the "product cycle" theory. Here production initially begins in the domestic country where the product was developed, with good access to the skilled designers and technicians responsible for "inventing" the product. As the product matures, these inputs become less important and production shifts to a country with a cost advantage in the production of the now standard good. Production overseas is cheaper and goods are exported back into the domestic economy. A further explanation for firms' investment in a foreign market rather than exporting goods to it is that there are external benefits (or spillovers) from overseas investment. These are most likely to stem from location in markets which set trends in demand, or are the "centers of excellence" in terms of production techniques, design, marketing or organization. Why overseas investment The prime motivation for investment in the international market must be that the stream of earnings is expected to exceed that which could be earned in the domestic markets. This could often be attributed to lower production costs in other countries. This investment will ultimately benefit the economy as a whole. The stream of income from overseas investments changes the composition of the current account of the balance of payments. Most directly, it does so by increasing the economy's earnings from abroad. But it may also indirectly promote a net trade improvement. Portfolio Investment In portfolio investment, there is no attempt by portfolio investors to actively control the management of a firm, rather it aims to seek out

Legal Environment Of Colombia Politics Essay

Legal Environment Of Colombia Politics Essay History Colombia is one of three countries that emerged following the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830. Francisco de Paula Santander became the president of the new state. Colombias name has changed many times since its independence from Gran Colombia, starting with the Republic of New Granada, then the Granadine Confederation, then the United States of Colombia, and finally the current Republic of Colombia. Colombias history is filled with violent conflicts between the conservative and liberal political parties. The most notable of these conflicts was a civil war occurring between 1899 and 1903, known as The War of a Thousand Days. The war led to approximately 100,000 deaths. Colombia also lost part of its northern territory in the conflict, which ultimately became what is currently Panama. Tension increased and conflict continued through 1958. From 1948 to 1957, Colombia experienced its worst political conflicts it what is now coined la violencia. The violence began after the assassination of the liberal leader, Jorge Elià ©cer Gaità ¡n. It is estimated this turmoil resulted in at least 200,000 deaths. During this period, Colombia was ruled by two successive dictators, Laureano Gà ³mez and Gustavo Rojas Pinalla. The conflicts and violence finally ended with an agreement between the conservatives and liberals in 1958. They formed a coalition government, known as the National Front government. The idea behind this type of government was that each party would hold the presidency and all other government and civil positions on an equal, rotating basis. This lasted for sixteen years and let to better economic conditions. Beginning in 1974, Colombia began to have legitimate elections between the two political parties. While political violence declined as a result of these elections, Colombia has been plagued with other issues. In 1985 a dormant volcano erupted outside of Bogotà ¡ killing nearly 20,000 people in the town of Armero. In 1999, another volcano resulted in significant loss of life in the town of Armenia. In addition to these natural disasters, Colombia was plagued by increased terrorist and drug activity. The Minister of Justice was assassinated in 1984 by drug barons working to protect the extremely profitable drug trade. Less than a year later, Guerrillas raided the Palace of Justice in Bogotà ¡ in 1985 taking a number of hostages until the Colombian troops stormed in. The incident resulted in nearly 100 deaths including several Supreme Court judges. The Marxist guerrillas terrorist activities still continue and have gained in strength since they partnered with the drug cartels for weapons. These guerrillas, known as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), reside in the south part of the country and have approximately 20,000 members. From this remote region, the guerrillas plan attacks on the Colombian military and police and protect their cocaine plantations. The estimated number of deaths in the 1990s from this conflict is 35,000 and has resulted in a number of military personnel being held hostage. Andrà ©s Pastrana became President in 1998 and unveiled a plan to combat the violence and drug problems, known as Plan Colombia. The goals of the plan were to increase peace throughout the country, combat the drug industry, revive the economy, improve protection of human rights, and reduce social inequalities. The United States provided a $1.3 billion assistance package mostly to help build-up the military and counternarcotics initiatives. In 2002, à lvaro Uribe was elected President and released the Democratic Security and Defense Policy. This plan focused attention on the security and military components of Colombia, but also worked to improve the social and economic issues. Uribe was reelected in 2006. (Gascoigne, 2001) Most recently, in June 2010 Juan Manuel Santos Calderà ³n was elected President of Colombia. (President of Colombia, 2010) He is believed to want to continue Uribes market-based economic reforms. (The world in figures: Countries, 2010) Background Facts All facts and statistics below were taken from the CIA World Factbook, unless indicated otherwise. (The World Factbook, 2010) Colombia is located in South America. It is over 1 million square kilometers, which is slightly less than twice the size of Texas, ranking it 26th in the world in terms of size. The major natural resources of Colombia are petroleum, natural gas, coal, and other minerals. Current issues facing the Colombian environment are deforestation, soil and water damage from the overuse of pesticides, and air pollution. The population of Colombia as of July 2010 was 44,205,293, with an annual growth rate of approximately 1.184 percent. A majority of this population is between 15 and 64 years old (66 percent), a relatively smaller percentage is under 14 (28 percent), and even smaller still is the percentage of the population over 65 years old (6 percent). Just about two-thirds of the population lives in urban areas. An indicator of social and economic conditions in the country, the infant mortality rate is 16.97 deaths per 1,000 live births and the life expectancy at birth is 74. Only about 170,000 people are living with HIV/AIDS, constituting only .6 percent of the population. The official language of Colombia is Spanish. The dominant religion is Roman Catholic at about 90 percent of the population. The government spends approximately 3.9 percent of GDP on educational expenditures, ranking 111 in the world. Over 90 percent of the population over the age of 15 is literate and students are expected to remain in school on average for 13 years. These statistics indicate a successful educational system. Military service is required of 18-24 year olds for 18 months. The military expenditures are 3.4 percent of GDP, ranking 35th in the world. Colombia ranks first in murders per capita in the world. (Crime Statistics) Predominant Economic Model The predominant economic model in Colombia is a market-based mixed economy. (Financial Standards Foundation, 2009) Both privately owned enterprises and the government play an important role. The market-based aspect of their economy focuses on private businesses producing goods and services and individuals consuming those goods and services. Ownership rights are important in protecting the private enterprises from governmental power. The economy is believed to be more efficient in a market economy as supply and demand are used to determine the production and pricing of goods and services. The mixed economy aspect means Colombia allows certain limitations to be placed on free enterprise through government regulations. Some services are better provided by the government than through a free market system. (U.S. Department of State) In 2005, over half of the total investment in Colombia was from government enterprises and government investments. This leans Colombia to more of a mixed economy. A process of economic liberalization was started in 1990 by removing restrictions on imports and foreign investment, privatizing more services, and easing government regulations. More recent reports show the liberalization is effective. The 2008 index of Economic Freedom reported the Colombian governments total expenditures were only 31 percent of gross domestic product. (Financial Standards Foundation, 2009) The National Administrative Department of Statistics states that the Colombian gross domestic product growth rates were approximately 7 percent in 2006 and 8 percent in 2007. The U.S. State Department reports there are a few factors that are contributing to the stable growth in Colombia: an increase in domestic security, monetary policy that maintains low inflation and a stable exchange rate, a rise in petroleum prices and exports in response to their economic liberalization, and various trade agreements. In 2008, the growth rate fell mostly due to a worldwide economic downturn, continuing to decline to 2.4 percent in 2010. (Financial Standards Foundation, 2009) Of some concern to the International Monetary Fund is the large deficit Colombia faces. The deficit is mostly financed by foreign investment, which can be risky due to an uncertain international economic environment. (Financial Standards Foundation, 2009) In summary, the Colombian economy exhibits characteristics of both a market-based economy and a mixed economy. The economic liberalization effort has already and will continue to move Colombia more toward a market-based economy that features less government regulation and a greater focus on privatization and international trade and investment. Legal Environment The Colombian government is made up a three branch system, similar to that in the United States. It consists of an executive branch, headed by the President, a judicial branch, and a legislative branch, consisting of a bicameral Congress. (The World Factbook, 2010) A new constitution was ratified in 1991 and brought about major changes in the political institutions. The new constitution maintained the three-branch system of government. It created new positions such as the Inspector General, a Human Rights Ombudsman, a Constitutional Court, a Superior Judicial Council, and Vice President. Significant social changes were implemented such as civil divorce, dual nationality and most importantly a legal means to appeal government decisions affecting constitutional rights. The constitution also implemented an accusatory system of criminal justice. Finally, an amendment in 2005 allows presidents to hold two consecutive four year terms, as opposed to just one. (Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, 2010) The Index of Economic Freedom measures the property rights index. The index measures the degree to which private property rights are protected by a countrys laws. It also indicates the likelihood private property will be seized by the government, how independent the judiciary is, and the enforceability of contracts. Scores range from 0 to 100, where higher scores indicate a better protection of property rights. Colombia scored a 50. (Property Rights Index, 2010) The constitution explicitly protects private property and contracts are generally enforced. Compensation is required in expropriation cases. Intellectual property rights are not always guaranteed. There are commonly infringements on intellectual property, especially trademarks. In terrorist territories property rights are not guaranteed. (Heritage Foundation, 2010) Corruption is a significant problem in Colombia. There are concerns about the influence of criminal organizations on the police, military and other judicial services. (Heritage Foundation, 2010) Drug trafficking and terrorist activity is still a major issue in Colombia. With the assistance of the United States, Colombia has been able to weaken the drug trafficking organizations, reduce the supply of drugs to the United States, and establish a military presence in conflict regions. The involvement of terrorist groups in drug trafficking increases the difficulty of cutting down the problem. With the help of the United States alternative development programs have cultivated over 650,000 hectares of agricultural and forestry lands. Colombia has instituted social infrastructure projects to entice communities to remain illicit-crop free. (Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, 2010)

Outline on John Bede Polding :: Catholic Figures Bishops Science Essays

Outline on John Bede Polding John Bede Polding- John Bede Polding was born at Liverpool on the 18th of October 1794 and died at Sydney, 16 March 1877. During his life he contributed in many ways to the growth of Catholicism in Australia through many different events. He was the first Catholic Archbishop in Australia, although he was ordained in England. He came to Australia in 1835  ¡Ã‚ ¨and at once set to work to organize his vast diocese. He found only three priests in New South Wales and one in Tasmania; these with the three or four Benedictine monks whom he had brought with him constituted the entire force at his disposal. Then, and for many years afterwards, he worked like one of his priests, saying Mass daily in various stations, often in the convict prisons, teaching the Catechism, hearing the confessions of multitudes, and attending the sick and dying. He obtained permission to give retreats in the prison establishments, and between 1836 and 1841 no less than 7000 convicts made at least ten days' retre at under his guidance. ¡Ã‚ ¨ Because of his good work the authorities began to bring every new shipload of Christian convicts to him, and he assisted all of them personally and attempted to help them before they were sent off to different places throughout Australia, showing his remarkable patience and acceptance for all people.  ¡Ã‚ §In 1841 Bishop Polding revisited England and thence went on to Rome to report on his vicariate and petition for the establishment of a hierarchy, which was granted in 1842, the vicar Apostolic becoming first Archbishop of Sydney and Primate of all Australia. During this visit he was sent on a special diplomatic mission to Malta, and in recognition of his success therein was made a Count of the Holy Roman Empire and an assistant at the pontifical throne. In 1843 he returned to Sydney, taking with him a band of Christian Brothers, four Passionists, and some Benedictines. His return as archbishop aroused a violent storm among the Church of England par ty in the colony, but his gentleness and tact disarmed all opponents. ¡Ã‚ ¨ This displays some of the ways that Polding contributed to the forming of Christianity in Australia during its early stages. He also contributed to the founding of the benedict nuns in Australia. He brought the two founding Nuns, Scholastica Gregory and Magdalen le Clerc, to Australia, where they began Benedictine Monastic life for women on February 2nd, 1849.

Managing a Foreign Subsidiary

Outline 1. Introduction The objective of the research is to manage the subsidiary of Metersbonwe in Brazil and Russia. Metersbonwe is a Chinese local clothing brand. Metersbonwe was founded in 1994, and it specializes in casual wear. The reasons why I choose this brand is that I’m a young man, and I think the design of Metersbonwe is very suitable for the young people. Also, Metersbonwe is a popular brand with low price, so, the developing country like Russia and Brazil could adapt the price.However, to manage a subsidiary in a foreign country is full of challenge, and the one of the important factor to make it success is The Five Dimensions of National Culture. Power Distance (PDI): the extent to the power distribution is unequally in the less powerful member. Individualism versus Collectivism (IDV): the extent to the individuals integrates into the group. Masculinity Femininity (MAS): the degree of the sexism in the culture. Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI): how this culture trea t the uncertainty and ambiguity.Long-Term Orientation (LTO): the Long-term cultures value thrift and perseverance, but, the short-term cultures value tradition, the fulfillment of social obligations and protecting honors. The other factor is the leadership style. There 3 different leadership styles is Authoritarian Style, Democratic Style, Laissez-Faire Style respectively. I think my leadership style is Democratic Style, because I will not be authoritarian to make the company all listen to me, A man's wisdom is limited, so, I need group’s wisdom to help the company become stronger.I will also not be Laissez-Faire Style, as a subsidiary company’s leader, I have a responsibility to carry the company. The research is anticipated to manage Metersbonwe in Russia and Brazil. The most important elements to manage the subsidiary in Russia and Brazil are local culture, people’s cloth wearing habit and the weather. 2. Methods The only data collection method used in the re search is Internet research, because, it’s limited by the source around.But the amount of the information on the internet was plenty, also, is easy to get the useful information on the internet, although the data collect by internet research may have less authenticity and accuracy, it is enough for this research. The internet research provided lot background knowledge, relatively official information about the company, many culture conventions in the Russia and Brazil and the Unilever’s business model in Russia and Brazil to locate the research, the internet research method helps a lot in this research. . Findings 2. 1. Examine the cultural conventions influencing business In Russia and Brazil Russia: Normal business hours are 9 a. m. to 5 p. m. Mondays to Fridays, and It is not unusual for Russians to renegotiate a contract. Brazil: Schedule the business meeting at least 2 weeks. Use casual conversation to start a business meeting or negotiation. 1. 2. 3. 4. 1. 4. 2. Determine Unilever’s business model in Russia and Brazil Russia: * Focused on special development program * Building leadership in large categories Using employees from 11 different nationalities Brazil: * have a local structure * top notch infrastructure * 10 major categories to sustained market leadership 2. Discussion 3. 2. Interpret the findings in light of thesis statement 3. 3. 1. Advantage for Metersbowe in Russia Diversity staff to build up the company’s culture exchange 3. 3. 2. Disadvantage for Metersbonwe in Russia Need long time to reconcile the cross culture staff 3. 3. 3. Advantage for Metersbonwe in Brazil Is not emphasize the culture convention . 3. 4. Disadvantage for Metersbonwe in Brazil 3. 3. Assess the effectiveness of the research * Not enough information to locate the Unilever’s business model in Russia and Brazil * Only internet research to fulfill the report, no other reliable source of data 3. Conclusions 4. 4. Identify and justify the Metersbonwe in Brazil * the country I choose to manage Metersbonwe is Brazil * Metersbonwe as a new brand access in Brazil clothing market 4. 5. Suggestion * More source of data provide * Confirm the accuracy of the data

Abortion: One of the Most Argumentative Topics

One of the most argumentative topics with our court today is the topic of abortion. Abortion has been practiced in the United States since the founding of the Republic according to You debate. It all began when married woman moved to lower their fertility rates after 1830. it became a widespread practice held in the United States. According to You debate, doctor’s estimated that in the 1960’s through the 1970’, there was at least one abortion every four birth’s. One common worry that congress had was the safety of the mother’s during the abortion progress. Before 1973, â€Å" abortions were preformed illegally, and in unskilled ways, many woman died from the awful infections and intense bleeding. Hangers and other sharp objects were one of many objects used for illegal abortions† (you debate, 2). There are numerous reasons as to why someone would be for abortions, or against abortions. In my own personal opinion, I believe that a woman has a right to decide what she would like to do. This essay will consist of both pro’s and con’s of abortion. Also, it will include certain cases that been brought to the congress’s attention. Abortion is a topic that several Americans have expressed their concerns with. People have the right to their own opinion whether they are pro or con for abortion. There are several reasons for pro-choice. One according to WCLA, is that â€Å" we support reproductive freedom† which means that an individual woman should be able to make her own choice whether or not she is going to give birth to the child. Also, laws have never stopped abortion. When illegal abortion was the leading killer of woman in the United States, there was no right to life choice. Most people in the United States believe that abortion may be the morally right choice under certain circumstances. Some of those circumstances are for example when a woman is rapped. If a woman gets rapped, I believe that is she is pregnant by the man, that she does have a right whether or not to birth the child because of the circumstances. According to WLCA, â€Å" Many people who are personally opposed to abortion for religious or moral reasons also believe that it’s wrong to impulse their values by civil law on everyone. You don’t have to like abortion to respect the right of choice. Another argument that congress has had to face is whether the baby is considered a alive, or is not. According to WLCA, â€Å"The fetus is totally dependent on the body of the woman for it’s life support. The health of the fetus is directly related to the health of the pregnant woman. Only at birth are they separated. † A woman named Margaret Sanger said, â€Å" No woman can call herself free who does not own and control her own body. † Almost all legislatures who oppose abortion rights also support the death penalty. One might ask if they think that people who are are convicted of murder are no longer human. According to the WLCA, The Constitution protects various rights that are not specifically mentioned. The constitutional right of privacy has been interpreted repeatedly to include matters of marriage, sex, and family, specifically â€Å"the right to be free from unwarranted governmental intrusion into matters so fundamentally affecting a person as the decision whether to bear a child or beget a child. † The agreement among the people of the United States has grown in support. In 1982, an NBC poll showed that 77% agreed to abortion should be between the woman and the doctor only. Another poll showed that 5. 4% of rape victims become pregnant. This poll proved that people are becoming more sympathetic towards women who are being rapped and getting pregnant. Also, most medications are not completely 100% effective for getting pregnant. Because of this, abortion should not be a problem because all medications are not 100% effective. Also, some people cannot afford to pay for medications. Therefore, abortion would be necessary. According to WLCA, â€Å"The increase in teen sex has complex society causes, including sexually orientated such as TV, movies, and ads. Birth control and abortion don’t cause sex. † The Supreme Court, in 1976, reaffirmed that the privacy allows woman to be free of governmental interference in decisions about childbearing. The court struck down the law that the father of the child does not have a say so in the decision of his unborn child. The court came to the conclusion that the person who is physically bearing the child is more affected by the pregnancy. Another reason for abortion is that most unwanted babies are usually battered or even killed by the immature parents are not ready to raise a child. The parents may not want the baby, so there fore they do not show or give the baby the love that he or she needs. Most abortions are done for health reason. When is a woman is with child, there are several cases in which the mother could in fact become in danger is the mother does decide to bear the child. In some cases, the babies that are being aborted are unhealthy babies. The parents can try again for a healthy baby. Also if we have abortion clinics, there will be a less percent of â€Å"abortion mills†. These are places in which woman have high risks of being hurt by the people actually doing the procedure. One last reason according to WLCA, why abortions should be accepted in the United States is that when a child is in the wound, the brain and sensory waves do not develop until the 30th week. Most abortions do not accrue usually after the 24th week. There are several reasons as to why people do not accept abortion in the Untied States. People believe that human life begins when there is conception of a child. Therefore, it would be calling abortion murder. According to WLCA, â€Å"abortion is morally wrong. † wrong. † They believe that if you think abortion is morally wrong, you are obligated to work to make abortion illegal. People also believe that it is a sense of â€Å"decay† towards Americans. People believe that the fetus is not just part of the mother, but actually another separate human being. The argument that argues a woman’s rights to her own body are argued with the statement, â€Å"The right of the unborn to live supersedes any right of a woman to control her own body† (WLCA, 1 ). Abortion could also be wrong because it is described as taking a human life. Also, if abortion is not mentioned in the Constitution, then why is it considered a constitutional right? People in the United States declare that we add an amendment that describes it as the human life amendment. This would consist of declaring a fetus a full person. Also, abortion should not be legal because of a rape situation. They believe this because the percent of woman who get pregnant after being rapped are very low. The question will always remain â€Å"If you are having sex, you should be able to pay for consequences. † Most Americans feel that if a woman is old enough to have sex, then she is able to take care of a child if she is aware of the idea of getting pregnant. According to DEBATE, â€Å"Teenagers are being les and less capable of saying no. Having the option of abortion increases the sexual experiences of teenagers. † People think that the teenager who is considering having an abortion, to consult their parents first. They believe that the parent will be able to help guide the teenager’s decision to a more moral outcome. Another argument is that most parents, who do not want the child at the time, want the child later on in life. There are several other negative effects of abortion such as woman who have died from legal abortion verses those who have died from illegal abortions. Study shows that if a woman has an abortion, then it could possibly affect her pregnancy later on in life. Adoption affects are also a strong case in congress with the subject of abortion. They want people to know that they could give birth to the child, and then give it up for adoption. There has also been a shortage is adoptive children because of the high numbers of abortion each year. In conclusion, there are several opinions on whether a woman has the right to carry her pregnancy to full term. There are several pros and cons about the topic abortion. In the United States, people battle with abortion everyday. This is a topic that may take several years to finally resolve with the Supreme Court. Is it that we are murdering a human being? Does a woman have the right whether to bear and have her child? Should the Supreme Court be for or against it? Both sides have very strong points of view about the positive and negative affects. With the case of Madsen V. Woman’s Health Center, the people protesting do have the right to their freedom of speech because it was not trespassing. But will it do any good or have any affect on the woman going in and out of the clinic? Who knows? This is a difficult decision that the Congress will have to decide. We may never be alive when this conflict is resolved.

Jfk Assassination Essays (1448 words) - Lee Harvey Oswald

Jfk Assassination Essays (1448 words) - Lee Harvey Oswald Jfk Assassination FCA: Matt Motta Organization- /30 4/3/00 Support- /40 Block H Documentation- /30 JFK Assassination John F Kennedy was shot down unlawfully in his prime. That is a pin that has been in the nations back since it happened back on November 22, 1963. A theory that has lead the race of who killed JFK was the Lone Gunman theory of Lee Harvey Oswald. Since this theory has been so inconclusive, other theories have appeared and are catching up to Lee Harvey Oswald. Some of these theories are just ridiculous but on the other hand ,some are very possible. The most plausible theory is that Lee Harvey Oswald shot John F Kennedy during his drive through Dallas, there is not enough evidence to convict Oswald, so other theories have come about. On November 22, 1963, President Kennedy took a trip to Dallas, Texas to mend some old news with the democrats and to gain votes for the upcoming 1964 election. In Dallas, JFK was greeted by over 200,000 spectators through the uptown and downtown Dallas area. A motorcade had driven them to the Dallas Trade Mart where JFK was to make a speech, later on that day. JFK, along with his wife Jackie, traveled with Texas Governor John Connally and his wife Nellie drove to Dallas Love Field, where they arrived at 11:37 A.M. The motorcade then took a right from Harwood St., onto Main Street, headed towards Dealey Plaza, a park built to celebrate the birthplace of Dallas. The car then made a right turn onto Houston Street. Nellie Connolly, at this point turned to President Kennedy , and said you cant say Dallas doesnt love you.(Moore NP) Then the gunshot fired that woke up the world. At 12:30 P.M., on November 22, 1963, shots rang out in Dealey Plaza. To some of the witnesses on the scene, the first sounded like a firecracker. (Kritzberg 63) President Kennedy had wounds on his back, his throat, and numerous shots to the head. Governor Connally suffered a wound in his back, his chest, two wounds in his right wrist, and a wound in his left thigh. Fortunately, these wounds were not fatal for the Governor. (Donnelly 116-120) A bystander named James Tague was wounded on his cheek by a bullet and/or concrete fragments caused by a missed shot. (Kritzberg 63) Witnesses at the scene heard anywhere from 2 shots to 7 shots. It was concluded these shots came out a rifle. The rifle was later found hidden behind some boxes as well as three empty cartridge cases in the same room as the suspected shooting, in the Texas School Book Depository Building. The police were later accused of planting the rifle and cartridge cases. President Kennedy was pronounced dead at 1 p.m., central standard time. (Donnelly 69) The most suspected shooter was Lee Harvey Oswald. Oswald belonged to the Marine Corp for most of his life. Oswald was trained in radar electronics, and had a background in security clearance. Oswald had experience with rifles, contacts in the CIA, possibly the Soviet Union and the KGB. The government claims that Oswald was just someone off the street who had a grudge against Kennedy. (Benson 190-193) Oswald was a communist, which would mean the Oswald believed that the president was no better than any other man. His beliefs made him an instant suspect for the CIA. (Benson 147) A major point in the discussion if Oswald did it or not is that the parade was running 6 minutes late. This means Oswald wouldnt have known, which he means he was waiting at the window for at least 6 minutes which he wasnt. Throughout the assassination Oswald was said to have been in the lunch room , however , no one could provide proof that they had seen him in the room where the shots were fired. Police swarmed the Texas School Book Depository Building believing the shots came from the third floor. On their way, they found Oswald sitting in the Lunch Room composed and quietly eating his lunch. (Kritzberg 60, 61, 69)Officer Baley was the police officer who entered the building after the shots were fired. When he did , he found Oswald in the Lunch Room. This created a problem in the timing element of the assassination. If Oswald were the shooter, then he would have needed to run four floors to the window where the shots were fired, then run back in 90 seconds to the lunch room. Oswalds arrest seems suspicious at this point because had he fired 4 shots and ran four floors as well

Definition of Being a Man

Definition of Being a Man There Is no Single Viewpoint Every male in the world tries to define being a man at least once in his life. Some researchers state that the first attempt takes place at the age of three in the majority of cases when a boy learns about certain peculiarities of his body. Of course, men try to understand what it is like to be a man much later. It goes without saying that men have different viewpoints on the matter. However, in the majority of cases they contemplate similar categories.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Definition of Being a Man specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Therefore, it is possible to draw a universal definition of being a man when these categories are analyzed. Though, such category as physical features (e.g. strength) should be taken into account, it cannot be the principal one. There are more important categories that make a man ‘man’. These major categories to analyze are as follows: s ocial role, relationships in a family (interaction with females) and ethnic identity. Social Roles In the first place, it can be important to look at the way men identify themselves in the society. Interestingly, there are certain stereotypes concerning men in this respect. For instance, men often try to hold leading positions. They try to fit the image of a tough guy who can reach his aims and who can reach the top. Therefore, men often try to measure their ‘masculinity’ (or other male’s ‘masculinity’) with the help of this category. The higher post a man holds, the more manlike he seems. It is also important to note that many often think that men have no right to be sentimental when reaching their aims. However, these are only stereotypes. Now men are not expected to be sharks in the human society. Though, masculinity is still associated with a high social position, men are not expected to make their way over corpses. Now such feature as responsibi lity is more important. Men are regarded as human beings who are responsible when it comes to making decisions. Being a man presupposes being responsible for various projects and for various people involved. Now this is the most important measurement for males. It is also important to state that masculinity has always been associated with competitiveness. Thus, men have always tried to prove they are ‘tough’. Now this competitiveness is also associated with responsibility. Men do not simply try to win the race; they are supposed to be responsible. Men cannot lose self-control. Thus, masculinity presupposes responsibility, competitiveness and self-control.Advertising Looking for essay on gender studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Relationships with Females Admittedly, there are loads of stereotypes when it comes to relationships between men and women. Historically, males were supposed to dominate fem ales. Several centuries ago males were regarded as superior creatures. They could suppress their women and their children. Being a man could be synonymous to being cruel to a woman. Husbands were regarded as masters of their wives and their kids. Therefore, masculinity was measured by the level of his woman’s obedience. This stereotype is still prevailing in many societies. However, many understand that this stereotype is outdated. Nowadays men do not need to show how strict they are with women. Marriage has transformed into the institution of two equal partners who take care of their children. Of course, it is important to note that these partners have a bit different roles. Thus, masculinity is not synonymous to superiority now. Men do not try to suppress their wives (or partners). Now an ideal husband is supportive and caring. He is also responsible. Notably, responsibility is important in this category as well. Being a man presupposes being responsible. Men should care ab out close people. They still should be strongholds of their families. Masculinity is now traced in the ability to be strong enough to admit that women are equal to men. Remarkably, this ability can be traced in men’s attitude towards feminist movements or even feminist ideas. Now many people understand that only weak and unconfident men try to prove that women should fulfill tasks that they have been carrying out throughout centuries. Such men do not want to let women hold high positions in the society. These men think that the institution of masculinity is in danger if women become in charge of men. On the contrary, really tough guys accept the changes which took place. They welcome women who can successfully hold the high position. Competitiveness is one of the most common features of masculinity. Real men welcome a deserving competitor, even if it is a female competitor. Therefore, responsibility is one of the most important features of masculinity when it comes to relatio nships with females, too. Ethnic Identity Ethnic identity is also one of the most important categories to analyze. Being a man means to be responsible for the entire group of people. This category is a bit similar to the previous one. Men often associate themselves with the entire nation. They feel ties between members of the group.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Definition of Being a Man specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is possible to state that they also feel responsible for the future of the entire nation. Admittedly, this can be compared to one of the basic instincts which make people continue their race. Likewise, men are supposed to be strongholds of their families. Thus, responsibility appears in the category of ethnic identity, too. Universal Definition On balance, it is possible to state that men have different viewpoints on masculinity. Likewise, there are many definitions of being a man. Nonetheless, it is still possible to come up with the universal definition. Thus, being a man means being committed and responsible for those who are dependent. Being a man also presupposes ‘healthy’ competitiveness which leads to development of the society Finally, being a man means being able to accept equality. Of course, it is important to note that this universal definition touches upon the major features of the real man. There are many other qualities that make a man â€Å"man†. Nonetheless, if a male is not characterized by such features as responsibility and ‘healthy’ competitiveness, he cannot be called the real man.