Pornography Essays (4498 words) - Pornography, Sex-positive Feminism

Pornography Pornography -- Sex or Subordination? In the late Seventies, America became shocked and outraged by the rape, mutilation, and murder of over a dozen young, beautiful girls. The man who committed these murders, Ted Bundy, was later apprehended and executed. During his detention in various penitentiaries, he was mentally probed and prodded by psychologist and psychoanalysts hoping to discover the root of his violent actions and sexual frustrations. Many theories arose in attempts to explain the motivational factors behind his murderous escapades. However, the strongest and most feasible of these theories came not from the psychologists, but from the man himself, as a teenager, my buddies and I would all sneak around and watch porn. As I grew older, I became more and more interested and involved in it, [pornography] became an obsession. I got so involved in it, I wanted to incorporate [porn] into my life, but I couldn't behave like that and maintain the success I had worked so hard for. I generated an alter ego to fulfill my fantasies under-cover. Pornography was a means of unlocking the evil I had buried inside myself (Leidholdt 47). Is it possible that pornography is acting as the key to unlocking the evil in more unstable minds? According to Edward Donnerstein, a leading researcher in the pornography field, the relationship between sexually violent images in the media and subsequent aggression and . . . callous attitudes towards women is much stronger statistically than the relationship between smoking and cancer (Itzin 22). After considering the increase in rape and molestation, sexual harassment, and other sex crimes over the last few decades, and also the corresponding increase of business in the pornography industry, the link between violence and pornography needs considerable study and examination. Once the evidence you will encounter in this paper is evaluated and quantified, it will be hard not come away with the realization that habitual use of pornographic material promotes unrealistic and unattainable desires in men that can lead to violent behavior toward women. In order to properly discuss pornography, and be able to link it to violence, we must first come to a basic and agreeable understanding of what the word pornography means. The term pornography originates from two Greek words, porne, which means harlot, and graphein, which means to write (Webster's 286). My belief is that the combination of the two words was originally meant to describe, in literature, the sexual escapades of women deemed to be whores. As time has passed, this definition of pornography has grown to include any and all obscene literature and pictures. At the present date, the term is basically a blanket which covers all types of material such as explicit literature, photography, films, and video tapes with varying degrees of sexual content. For Catherine Itzin's research purposes pornography has been divided into three categories: The sexually explicit and violent; the sexually explicit and nonviolent, but subordinating and dehumanizing; and the sexually explicit, nonviolent, and no subordinating that is based upon mutuality. The sexually explicit and violent is graphic, showing penetration and ejaculation. Also, it shows the violent act toward a woman. The second example shows the graphic sexual act and climax, but not a violent act. This example shows the woman being dressed is a costume or being 'talked down' to in order to reduce her to something not human; such as a body part or just something to have sex with, a body opening or an orifice. Not only does 'erotica' show the entire graphic sexual act, it also depicts an attraction between two people. Her research consistently shows that harmful effects are associated with the first two, but that the third 'erotica', is harmless (22). These three categories basically exist as tools of discerning content. Although sometimes they overlap without a true distinction, as in when the film is graphic in the sexual act and also in violence, but shows the act as being a mutual activity between the people participating. In my view, to further divide pornography, it is possible to break it down into even simpler categories: soft and hard-core pornography. Hard core pornography is a combination of the sexually explicit and violent and the sexually explicit and nonviolent, but subordinating and dehumanizing categories,

Marketing analysis of Dior Essays

Marketing analysis of Dior Essays Marketing analysis of Dior Paper Marketing analysis of Dior Paper Essay Topic: Marketing Push Precious 1.0 Introduction The benchmark of human appeal always increases for both man and woman. From the era of shabby clothes to noble fashion, from de-emphases to emphasis skin care and toilette. Those of the changes label human civilization. Nowadays, the standard of toilette and fashion are very demanding. It is difficult for substantial fashion enterprises to maintain its market. However, Dior can achieve it. What is the market position of Dior? How Dior makes the business and keeps its stable. 2.0 Background Christian Dior was born in Normandy, France in 1905, and channeled his love for art by opening an art gallery. In 1938, he entered the fashion world as a designer for Robert Piquet. After serving in World War II, Dior returned to Paris and had a very successful collaboration with Pierre Balmain at Lucien Lelong. With the help of Marcel Boussac, Dior was able to open his own fashion house in 1946. His opulent designs made him successful in the post-war era, and his brand quickly expanded into furs, perfumes and accessories. In 1957, Dior suddenly died and Yves Saint Laurent became the head designer. Since Saint Laurent, other well-known designers at this fashion house include Marc Bohan, Gianfranco and. John Galliano. 3.0 Marketing Environment 3.1 Marco Environment * Political Factor Dior is a French brand, which is very elegant. French possess one complete legal and tax system. Actually, French government carries out free market policy, so it provides a free and substantial development space for Dior. Moreover, French has a trading agreement with EU that helps Dior successfully sell products and promotion to other Europe countries. Cite as (Louis E. Boone David L. Kurtz 2006) * Economic Factor In French economy, it cant fully prosperous. For example, GDP is not growing significantly and there is remarkable unemployment rate. It will seriously affect Dior policy implementation. For instance when employment level is down, Dior cant employ enough staff for developing. On the other hand, after American second grade mortgage problem, it leads Europe Central Bank to fix interest rate. It definitely helps Dior to reduce loan interest burden, then, exchange rate between EU and US have difference. It also helps Dior invest efficiently and effectively. Cite as (Louis E. Boone David L. Kurtz 2006) * Social Factor In view of social factor, Dior face keen challenges. Nowadays, there is unbalance distribution of wealth in the world. It affects Dior to expand its market, as consumer cant afford price. Income recourse just comes from some people. It makes Dior development style narrow. Luckily, Dior can take advantage of society since Education level increases. That makes living condition and lifestyle is noble. It generates a lot of tasteful buyers for buying Diors products. * Technological Factor Nowadays, information technology changes day by day. Dior catches these characteristics, so it establishes official website which can communicate and realize the customers need. 3.2 Micro Environment * Competitive In the global market, Dior face many competitions. Locally, there are L.V, agnes b etc. In Europe, there are Burberry Gucci etc. They are also substantial fashion enterprises producing similar product, which can replace of Dior. 3.3 Internal Environment * Function Department Dior is successful tin the market. It not only possesses excellent design, it also relies on top management team who decide the direction of company. Moreover, Dior is cosmopolitan brand. There are many adherents, investors and bank supporting Dior financial and development. It brings comparative advantage to Dior which use for generating own manufacturing team in China. Because of own manufacturing team absolutely maintains product quality as well as reduces production cost. In addition, Dior can use this financial advantage dividing market segmentation, as they input more recourse for research and analysis. It makes the market segmentation be more efficient and effective. 4.0 SWOT analysis 4.1 Strength * Strong brand name Dior is a cosmopolitan brand. To consumers point of view, Diors products are elegant noble and tasteful why a majority of consumers have this perspective? It is because Dior creates an unique style of its fashion. Those fashions are in quality since they put more effort and attention to every step. From design to production. Dior doesnt discharge its duties carelessly, but it establishes its brand to be known widely. The strong brand name can help Dior increase market status. Main competitors of Dior * Good Designer and management Dior employs a lot of famous designers, such as John Galliano. He is a creative and initiative designer. John Galliano holds all of the fashion shows, which are dumfounded and praised by audiences. Undoubtedly, designers are important assets of Dior. In addition, Dior also possesses an excellent management team. They create a ambitions direction for Dior. The successful position of Dior depends on those designers and management. Dior Designer: John Galliano Dior Director: Bernard Arnauult * Financial Support Dior is the famous brand, so a majority of investors and bankers trust Dior. They are willing to provide capital for Dior to expand its business since Dior not only is a cosmopolitan brand, but also potential and profitable enterprises. It attracts investor, potential investor and bankers to support Dior financially. 4.2 Weaknesses * Employment Problem Dior is the substantial listed company. It must possess staff in a great quantity. It is not easy to control too much staff effectively. Dior may face some employment problem, such as human recourse mismatch, staff discipline and salaries distribution. Those problems will directly affect Dior competitors. * Unsatisfied with some type of consumer Although Dior products are good. It only serves particular buyers. Dior neglects some markets such as obese buyers and old buyers. According to research, obese guys quickly increases, if Dior gives up this market, it will make loss. 4.3 Opportunity * Takeover Armani Armani is also international brand. The director of Armani decides to retire few years later. Dior can takeover Armani, so that it can create synergy and increase reputation. Dior can press down product and advertisement cost by synergy and develop various styles, since the style of Dior and Armani have divergence. It makes a different product line to maximize profit. Armani Director: Giogio Armani * Cooperation with other company Dior can cooperate with other companies to expand the market, such as crossover with mobile or furniture producer. Some fashion enterprises have tried before. For example PARDA mix up with Korea mobile producer LG to develop a smart phone. It makes PARDA reputation and market shares grow. Dior can select mobile producer, such as NOKIA helping develop one dignitary and functional mobile. It must increase Dior reputation and market shares. PARDA x LG smart phone * Establish new product line for other style The fashion style of Dior only fits some particular targets. The market shares will be narrow, since some of the fashion brands will snatch a part of market shares. Then, Dior should create another style and build specific product line. For example, leisure wearing and formal dressing. In order to ensure market position, Dior must seriously consider. 4.4 Threat * Competitors Although Dior is one of the cosmopolitan brands, there are semiprecious level competitors to challenge Dior current position, such as L.V, Gucci, and Burberry. They also possess reputation and profitability. Those brands products can directly affect Dior turnover sales, so Dior must draw attention with those brands. * Global economic trend In 2006, strong consumption pushed up American economy. It indirectly pushes up global economy. Dior turnover sales obviously increase. However, since March 2007, the risk of American second mortgage has started up until now. The global economy burden a risk consumers purchasing power decrease remarkably. It seriously affects Dior because it is a luxury products producer. In attempt to obviate economic crisis, Dior must adjust the selling strategy and cost control. * Designer stay or resign Designers are the important assets of Fashion Company. It is not easy to find or train potential designer because top designer stay behind another brand, even though there is a contract to restrict them. Dior must put more resources to protect designer team in order to keep the image and remain attraction. 5.0 Market Segmentation It relates to segmentation base and profile. There are three major market segmentation including Demographic, Psychographic and Behavioral. 5.1 Segmentation Base * Demographic Base Sex-Christian Dior is designed for Lady. It includes fashion, accessories, skin care and cosmetics. -Dior Homme is Man product line. Income-Dior is luxury product producer, so the price of product set on high price. Dior expects the consumer to earn ranking form $20,000 to $45,000 per month. Occupation- Dior expects consumer who are profession or management level. It is because this occupation species can earn relatively high salaries, so the price of Dior products can be accepted. Social class-Dior expects consumer to be upper middle or above classes, as Dior run noble direction. It can match Dior image The above variables provide an objective factual and descriptive base for categorizing consumer, so that Dior can find consumer direction. Cite as (David. W. Cravens Nigel. F. Piercy 2003) * Psychographic base Lifestyle-Tasteful consumers are the targets of Dior, since the product design is mainly suitable for this type of consumer. This type of variable provides a subjective, interpretative and explanatory base for categorizing consumer. Although this base cant offer too much variable for Dior, it let Dior know unique style is their main weapon. * Behavioral base Benefit sought- Dior knows customer focusing on product quality and sale service. Loyalty status- The consumers may have medium faith of Dior product. The above variables make Dior know who will use product, so that Dior can mainly focus on this type of consumers. Cite as (Joshua Grossnickle Oliver Raskin 2001) 5.2 Market Targeting * General Criteria The market segments of Dior are tasteful people who are professional, manager or rich people. In fact, the size of this market is quite large. Then, a potential growth is concealed in this market, since the social unceasing evolution. People receive higher level and living standard also inevitable. They need to identify their position. Luxuries are their first choice. There are many competitors existing nearby Dior, such as L.V, Gucci. They have the same market was approached by those competitors of Dior. However, this market structure is complex. They have the same market and those products can be substitutes. For example Dior cosmetic, Gucci cosmetic, However, this market structure has one advantage. It is difficult for other new competitors to enter the field as Dior and other competitors win the fame for long time, financial background is also reliable. * Specific Criteria In fact, Dior customer base isnt sufficient. Although Dior utilizes much resource to constitute the customer base, there are too much competitors to struggle for the same market. It is difficult for Dior to break through the siege. It is not easy to provide meaningful marketing mix strategy that can satisfy with consumers, Nevertheless, Dior can achieve by its strong brand and successful segmentation. Dior segments can be measured in term of monitoring the effect of market mix strategy. * Target Strategy of Dior Dior carries out Differentiated target and Niche, as Dior serves not only one segment. Different segment will have different marketing mix strategy to fit the consumer need. Moreover, Dior also focuses some specialized sub-segment. Special product is produced by Dior to satisfy this small group. 5.3 Market Positioning Dior marketing mix strategy distinguishes consumers point of view. * Product Attributes Dior product is elegant. It is a luxury for people. * Usage Occasion Consumers not always purchase Dior product. It is not necessary for them to buy every day or week. They may purchase Dior product once or twice a year. * Against from competitors Dior market segment is steadily increasing and the competitors sales also dont fluctuate. Dior stays at a safe place. * Product Categories 1. Dior Homme- man fashion 2. Christian Dior- Lady fashion 3. Dior Lady accessories, skin care and cosmetics 2.Christian Dior 3. Dior Lady Wearing Cosmetics Dior marketing mix strategy owns competitive advantage for below areas: * Product Differentiation Although Gucci, L.V are very famous brands, their products are already commonplace which nothing special, Nonetheless, Dior product can bring fresh and unique excitement to consumers. * Image Differentiation C.D is the logo of Dior. It is well-know brand for every one. It is like people see M as they will think of McDonald. 6.0 Analysis of 4ps * Product Dior product divides into few types. As for man causal wear is Dior Homme. For Lady wear is Christian Dior, for cosmetics and skin care is Dior, which has stricted quality control. There is no excuse for Dior to produce flawed product. Dior has strong brand supported by long in time history. A lot of customers hold favorable attitude towards a brands, so Dior product can attract faithful adherent. * Price Dior products are luxuries .the price is also costly. Although the price of Dior product is expensive, it doesnt affect the demand of this luxury. The price setting relates to s few aspects. First, it is a must to consider competitor price such as L.V Gucci. Second, products quality, warranty, image are crucial. Then reputation value, Dior can consider to decrease price, which can probably increase market shares. * Promotion In fact, Dior does not have too much promotion. It just promotes the product through newspapers, website and some specific magazines, since a vast of people already know Dior. If Dior can remain more budgets for promotion. The reputation of Dior must rise. Dior can consider which type of advertising is the most effective for them. It is acceptable to adopt T.V, Huge advertising board. * Place In HK, Dior shops are located in famous shopping mall and popular place such as Habour City. It is not only conformable, but also convenient for consumers. In order to take the advantage of concentration, Dior should establish more shops in famous area. 7.0 Recommendation From my point of view, I suggest Dior keep noble image and put more resources into promotion such as sponsor famous football team, green campaigns, so Dior can establish a health and active image. On the other hand, Dior should search another source of consumers in order to increase market share. Because of luxury clients source are too narrow. It is necessary for Dior finding another segment.

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Learning Types

Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Learning Types In the world of online education, or distance learning, classes can be asynchronous or synchronous. What does it mean? Synchronous When something is synchronous, two or more things are happening at the same time, in synchronicity. They are in sync. Synchronous learning takes place when two or more people are communicating in real time. Sitting in a classroom, talking on the telephone, chatting via instant messaging are examples of synchronous communication. So is sitting in a classroom a world away from where the teacher is speaking via teleconferencing. Think live. Pronunciation: sin-krÉ™-nÉ™s Also Known As: concurrent, parallel, at the same time Examples: I prefer synchronous learning because I need the human interaction of communicating with someone as if they were in front of me. Synchronous Resource: 5 Reasons You Should Sign Up for a Workshop Asynchronous When something is asynchronous, the meaning is opposite. Two or more things are not in sync and are happening at different times. Asynchronous learning is considered more flexible than synchronous learning. The teaching takes place at one time and is preserved for the learner to participate in at another time, whenever it is most convenient for the student. Technology such as email, e-courses, online forums, audio and video recordings make this possible. Even snail mail would be considered asynchronous. It means that learning is not taking place at the same time that a subject is being taught. Its a fancy word for convenience. Pronunciation: Ä -sin-krÉ™-nÉ™s Also Known As: non-concurrent, not parallel Examples: I prefer asynchronous learning because it allows me to sit down at my computer in the middle of the night if I want to and listen to a lecture, then do my homework. My life is hectic and I need that flexibility. Asynchronous Resources: Tips to Help You Rock Your Online Classes

Federal Prison Comparison Pape Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Federal Prison Comparison Pape - Research Paper Example Ultimately there are fewer violent offenders in federal prisons than state prisons because a majority of federal crimes are non-violent/commercial crimes. State prisons originate from colonial times, and evolved from the prisons that were established to house criminals who offended the laws against the crown (Clear et al, 2011). Between 1900 and 1970 the prison population in the US was moderate, housing from 90 to 120 prisoners for each 100,000 citizens. However, with more than 35 years of â€Å"steady growth† the prison population is currently five times greater than it was in 1973 representing the largest prison population in the country’s history (Clear et al, 2011, p. 6). There have been many attempts to explain the prions population growth in the US. Gaines and Miller (2011) identified a number of contributing factors. The prions population growth in the US can be attributed to the get tough on crime policies that began in the 1980s. The get tough on crime policies introduced a number of strategies that resulted in mandatory imprisonment. One such strategy in a number of states is the three strikes policy which calls for mandatory incarceration for repeat offenders. Another policy is the longer prison sentencing strategies. With fewer prisoners eligible for parole, the prison population grows because new offenders are introduced into the system and few prisoners are released. Another explanation given for the prison population growth is the fact that there have been more crimes as criminals become more sophisticated and technology aids in the commission of criminal activities (Gaines & Miller, 2011). Security State Prisons State prison systems design their own security systems but they are generally the same among the 50 states. The North Carolina Department of Correction provides an example of the security levels in US state prisons. Prisoners enter the prison system from a county jail for the most part. Upon entering the state prison prison ers are assessed for risks and security risks are balanced against the needs of programs. Newly admitted prisoners are evaluated for security risks and are also subjected to medical and mental health evaluations in the risk assessment process. A number of factors including the crime, social demographics, education, job experience, and criminal history are taken into account (North Carolina Department of Corrections, 2011). Once the prisoner’s evaluation is completed he/she is placed in the appropriate â€Å"custodial level†. The custodial levels are classified as close (maximum), medium, minimum 1, minimum II and minimum III. Close of maximum security is a custodial level where inmates assessed to have the highest security risks are placed. Medium security houses prisoners who are at a lower security risk than prisoners placed in close security. Prisoners who pose a low security risk are placed in minimum III (North Carolina Department of Corrections, 2011). Federal Pr isons The Federal Bureau of Prisons (n.d.) lists four security levels in the federal prison system. The four security systems are minimum security, low security, medium security and high security. Minimum security prisons are also referred to as Federal Prison Camps and have â€Å"dormitory housing, a relatively low staff-to-inmate ratio† and â€Å"limited or no perimeter fencing† (Federal Bureau of Prisons, n.d.). Low security prisons on the other hand have â€Å"double-fenced perimeters†

Annual report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Annual report - Essay Example In effect, the expose elucidates the company’s 2010 report using economic principles leant in class. Joseph Oriel Eaton and Viggo Torbensen established a small machine shop in Bloomfield, New Jersey in 1911. The shop manufactured heavy-duty truck axles supplying them to the expanding automotive industry. In 1917 however, by which time production had soared to 33,000, Eaton sold the company to Republic Motor Truck Co., the largest truck maker in the country. Eaton appeared again in the industry in 1922 by buying back his original company from Republic Motor Truck Co. In this regard, the company became Eaton Axle and Spring Co. one year later. Efficaciously, the company weathered the Great Depression by acquiring several companies that were approaching bankruptcy. By the late 1930s, President Roosevelts New Deal program stimulated industrial growth. In effect, demand for products from Eaton Manufacturing Company--a name change registered in May 1932--increased slowly and steadily. Moreover, the United States engagement in World War II made Eaton the primary manufacturer of vehicle pa rts. In effect, the company produced a variety of items making its contributions to the war effort. Currently, Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with a workforce of over 70,000 people. In addition, the country operates in more than 50 countries and sells its products to almost 150 countries. This year marks a hundred years of the company’s operations (Eaton). In the year 2010, Eaton Corporation made sales worth $11.9 billion. Further, the net income attributable to the company’s common shareholders was valued at $929 million. The company’s total assets were $ 17.252 billion. On the other hand, the total current liabilities $3.233 billion while the total non-current liabilities $6.616 billion; in effect, the total liabilities were valued at $9,849 billion. Moreover, Eaton shareholders’

The form of research known as Ethnography

The form of research known as Ethnography Ethnography is a form of research focusing on the sociology of meaning through close field observation of sociocultural phenomena. Typically, the ethnographer focuses on a community (not necessarily geographic, considering also work, leisure, and other communities), selecting informants who are known to have an overview of the activities of the community. Such informants are asked to identify other informants representative of the community, using chain sampling to obtain a saturation of informants in all empirical areas of investigation. Informants are interviewed multiple times, using information from previous informants to elicit clarification and deeper responses upon re-interview. This process is intended to reveal common cultural understandings related to the phenomena under study. These subjective but collective understandings on a subject (ex., stratification) are often interpreted to be more significant than objective data (ex., income differentials). It should be noted that ethnography may be approached from the point of view of art and cultural preservation, and as a descriptive rather than analytic endeavor. The comments here, however, focus on social science analytic aspects. In this focus, ethnography is a branch of cultural anthropology. Related information is contained in the sections on content analysis and on case study research. Key Concepts and Terms The ethnographic method starts with selection of a culture, review of the literature pertaining to the culture, and identification of variables of interest typically variables perceived as significant by members of the culture. The ethnographer then goes about gaining entrance, which in turn sets the stage for cultural immersion of the ethnographer in the culture. It is not unusual for ethnographers to live in the culture for months or even years. The middle stages of the ethnographic method involve gaining informants, using them to gain yet more informants in a chaining process, and gathering of data in the form of observational transcripts and interview recordings. Data analysis and theory development come at the end, though theories may emerge from cultural immersion and theory-articulation by members of the culture. However, the ethnographic researcher strives to avoid theoretical preconceptions and instead to induce theory from the perspectives of the members of the culture and from observation. The researcher may seek validation of induced theories by going back to members of the culture for their reaction. Definition. A popular definition of ethnography is found in Hammersley and Atkinson (1995: 1), who write of ethnography, We see the term as referring primarily to a particular method or sets of methods. In its most characteristic form it involves the ethnographer participating, overtly or covertly, in peoples lives for an extended period of time, watching what happens, listening to what is said, asking questionsà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬in fact, collecting whatever data are available to throw light on the issues that are the focus of the research. More recently, Johnson (2000: 111) defines ethnography as a descriptive account of social life and culture in a particular social system based on detailed observations of what people actually do. Ethnographic methodologies vary and some ethnographers advocate use of structured observation schedules by which one may code observed behaviors or cultural artifacts for purposes of later statistical analysis. Coding and subsequent statistical analysis is treated in Hodson (1999). See also Denzin and Lincoln (1994). Macro-ethnography is the study of broadly-defined cultural groupings, such as the English or New Yorkers. Micro-ethnography is the study of narrowly-defined cultural groupings, such as local government GIS specialists or members of Congress. Emic perspective is the ethnographic research approach to the way the members of the given culture perceive their world. The emic perspective is usually the main focus of ethnography. Etic perspective, is the ethnographic research approach to the way non-members (outsiders) perceive and interpret behaviors and phenomena associated with a given culture. Situational reduction refers to the view of ethnographers that social structures and social dynamics emerge from and may be reduced analytically to the accumulated effects of microsituational interactions (Collins 1981, 1988). Put another way, the cosmos is best understood in microcosm. Situational reduction, Collins (1981b: 93) wrote, . . . produces an empirically stronger theory, on any level of analysis, by displaying the real-life situations and behaviors that make up its phenomena. In particular, it introduces empirically real causal forces in the shape of human beings expending energy. It enables us to discover which macro-concepts and explanations are empirically groundable, and which are not Symbols, always a focus of ethnographic research, are any material artifact of a culture, such as art, clothing, or even technology. The ethnographer strives to understand the cultural connotations associated with symbols. Technology, for instance, may be interpreted in terms of how it relates to an implied plan to bring about a different desired state for the culture. Cultural patterning is the observation of cultural patterns forming relationships involving two or more symbols. Ethnographic research is holistic, believing that symbols cannot be understood in isolation but instead are elements of a whole. One method of patterning is conceptual mapping, using the terms of members of the culture themselves to relate symbols across varied forms of behavior and in varied contexts. Another method is to focus on learning processes, in order to understand how a culture transmits what it perceives to be important across generations. A third method is to focus on sanctioning processes, in order to understand which cultural elements are formally (ex., legally) prescribed or proscribed and which are informally prescribed or proscribed, and of these which are enforced through sanction and which are unenforced. Tacit knowledge is deeply-embedded cultural beliefs which are assumed in a cultures way of perceiving the world, so much so that such knowledge is rarely or never discussed explicitly by members of the culture, but rather must be inferred by the ethnographer. Assumptions Ethnography assumes the principal research interest is primarily affected by community cultural understandings. The methodology virtually assures that common cultural understandings will be identified for the research interest at hand. Interpretation is apt to place great weight on the causal importance of such cultural understandings. There is a possibility that an ethnographic focus will overestimate the role of cultural perceptions and underestimate the causal role of objective forces. Ethnography assumes an ability to identify the relevant community of interest. In some settings, this can be difficult. Community, formal organization, informal group, and individual-level perceptions may all play a causal role in the subject under study, and the importance of these may vary by time, place, and issue. There is a possibility that an ethnographic focus may overestimate the role of community culture and underestimate the causal role of individual psychological or of sub-community (or for that matter, extra-community) forces. Ethnography assumes the researcher is capable of understanding the cultural mores of the population under study, has mastered the language or technical jargon of the culture, and has based findings on comprehensive knowledge of the culture. There is a danger that the researcher may introduce bias toward perspectives of his or her own culture. While not inherent to the method, cross-cultural ethnographic research runs the risk of falsely assuming that given measures have the same meaning across cultures. Frequently Asked Questions Isnt ethnography a subjective rather than scientific social science research method? Selection of informants is not based on the researchers personal judgments but on identifications made by community members. Likewise, conclusions about cultural understandings of the phenomena of interests are not personal insights of the researcher, or even of particular community members, but are views cross-validated through repeated, in-depth interviews with a broad cross-section of representative informants. Ethnographers may also validate findings through conventional archival research, consultation with experts, use of surveys, and other techniques not unique to ethnography. At the same time, ethnographic interviews are far more in-depth than survey research. Ethnographers respond to charges of subjectivity by emphasizing that their approach eschews preconceived frameworks and derives meaning from the community informants themselves, whereas survey instruments often reflect the conceptual categories preconceived by the researcher prior to actual encounter with respondents. What are the Human Relations Area Files (HRAF)? The Human Relations Area Files (HRAF), based at Yale University, are a large collection of pre-coded ethnographic field studies of some 350 cultures. Originally available only on microfiche, collection subsets are now available on CD-ROM. Examples of coded subjects include marriage, family, crime, education, religion, and warfare. The researcher must code variables of interest to go beyond the precoding done by HRAF. Hundreds of articles have been based on the HRAF cultural database, and collections of coding schemes are documented in Barry and Schlegel, eds. (1980). The HRAF database is suitable for ethnographic coding methods as described in Hodson (1999)

Market Segmentation

Division of marketing for Kit Kat – chocolate bar, into geographic , demographic, psychographic and behavioural segmentation. Geographic segmentation The market is broadly divided into Urban (cities and towns) and Rural (villages). Kit Kat caters the high urban need by making products available that too with a variety with the help of which the rural crowd can be kept attracted. Rural needs are also kept in mind and there is nothing even required for Kit Kat to make an effort to attract rural crowd because of the price.Kit Kat’s price is very reasonable that attracts rural crowd and gives them proper quantity of chocolate as well be it the two-finger Kit Kat or the four-finger. Since Kit Kat has its price stable and has a very minor change in its price, it can still target the rural crowd by making them aware that compared to their competitors Cadbury their product is cheaper and much affordable. Demographic segmentation With the youth population getting larger, Kit Kat looks to take an advantage of that.They have also segmented the market for children, adults and aged people. Kit Kat is a type of a chocolate that is light and can be consumed by every age group. Majority of the customer base in market comprises of middle class and upper middle class. But income groups have never been a concern for Kit Kat, the prices of Kit Kat have been stable for decades and the prices are such that any income group can afford it. Psychographic segmentation Market Segmentation Market segmentation Market consists of large number of actual and potential customers. The process of splitting the market into different groups or segments based on the needs, characteristics or buyer behavior is called as Segmentation (Kotler, Brown, Adam, and Armstrong, 2007). Singapore Airlines (SIA) has used traditional approach adopted by legacy carriers for segmentation. SIA focuses on business travelers and the price sensitive leisure travelers. The business paradigm of SIA has clearly differentiated these two segments by catering to their heterogonous need. In order to penetrate their existing market and expand their revenue base they are also focusing on additional segment based on consumer loyalty. The increasing revenue of SIA has been depicted in appendix 1. Detailed analysis of segmentation strategy used by Singapore Airline is given as below: Psychographic variables Preferences: The two major groups of business and leisure travelers differ in their preferences. It’s believed that on an average in aviation industry elite travelers contribute up to 50% of revenue though they add up to less than 20% in passenger number (Brancatelli, 2009). Hence the preference of this particular segment (Business travelers) is given additional importance. They are given exclusive in-flight service with respect to variety of cuisines being served, exotic drinks and special seating comfort (Wirtz and Johnston, 2003). At the same time since the other segment i. e. the leisure travelers form the major chunk of passengers their preferences also cannot be ignored. They too are given in-flight services which can be termed best as per industry practices. Nature of demand: Since the nature of demand varies with respect to business and leisure travelers it is used as a parameter for discriminator analysis. Business travelers demand more working space, internet and telephone connections whereas leisure travelers demand more in-flight entertainment features (Singapore Airlines, 2009) Behavioral variables: Brand loyalty: Customer loyalty can also be used as a basis for market segmentation (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA has also segmented their market on the basis of customer loyalty. Retaining an existing customer goes a long way in bringing in additional revenues for the company and this is exactly the reason why SIA has chosen loyalty as a variable for segmentation. SIA gives KrisFlyer and PPS club membership to their loyal customers in a bid to retain their loyalty. KrisFlyer silver group members, enjoy certain privileges such as they are allowed to fly on short notice even if the reservation is not confirmed. Similarly PPS club members are given privileges like free accident and travel insurance, increased baggage allowance etc. Singapore Airlines, 2009) Targeting Target marketing basically refers to the division of the market into various different segments and then focusing on prominent and significant key segments (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA targets customers based on lifestyle, income group and social class. Lifestyle SIA targets segments based on lifestyle (Murali and Murali, 2008). SIA ensures that customers, who give more importance to comfort and luxury , have a great experience on board. SIA places special focus on high end and discerning customers and targets customers accordingly. Income Group Income group is also used as a parameter for targeting customers (Murali et al, 2008). SIA is a premium airline which focuses on providing value based flying experience to the customer and it comes with a heavy price tag. Hence, SIA aims to tap the high and middle income groups which are more likely to pay for quality. Social Class SIA also targets customers based on their social class. Every social class has beliefs and attitudes, which shapes their buying behavior (Kotler et al, 2007). People belonging to the elite class will go for a high end brand, so being a luxury airline SIA targets the high social classes. Positioning Positioning can be defined as the process of framing the image of a company in the view of the target market, based on the products and services offered (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA positions itself as a premium luxury carrier. SIA portrays itself as an airline that provides all the luxuries that one may desire while travelling, be it comforts, a hospitable crew or an overwhelming in-flight experience. The primary message used by SIA, is self explanatory; A Great Way to Fly (Singapore Airlines, 2009). The marketing strategy has been consistent all the way, the message that SIA wants to send across to the target market is that; it is the best airline in its segment. SIA joined the Star Alliance in 2000, which is the first and the largest airline alliance of its kind (Singapore Airlines, 2009). The â€Å"Singapore Girl† strategy was a very influential idea that gave SIA the push it needed and went on to become a very successful brand icon (Roll, 2009). This brand personality of â€Å"Singapore Girl† further helps them reaffirm their position as an airline which provides high level of hospitality. Brand positioning for SIA is depicted in the diagram shown below. The strategy adapted by SIA is to position themselves as a high quality and high value brand and especially with the â€Å"Singapore Girl† concept they show the level of hospitality offered to the customers. SIA positions itself away from the competitors in every class, be it economy class, business class or first class. In the above diagram; AIQ – AirAsia ALK – Srilankan Airlines DLH – Lufthansa SIA – Singapore Airlines In the current scenario, where premium airlines are cutting down onboard services to reduce prices in order to compete with the low-cost carriers, SIA continues to maintain their brand image. The management of SIA believes that there are customers willing to spend a good amount for quality products and services (Roll, 2009). So looking for high end customers is not an issue, rather their job is to position the brand in such a way that customers get attracted to fly on SIA, and so far SIA has been able to create, what they refer to as the Wow Effect (Wirtz et al, 2003). Market Segmentation Division of marketing for Kit Kat – chocolate bar, into geographic , demographic, psychographic and behavioural segmentation. Geographic segmentation The market is broadly divided into Urban (cities and towns) and Rural (villages). Kit Kat caters the high urban need by making products available that too with a variety with the help of which the rural crowd can be kept attracted. Rural needs are also kept in mind and there is nothing even required for Kit Kat to make an effort to attract rural crowd because of the price.Kit Kat’s price is very reasonable that attracts rural crowd and gives them proper quantity of chocolate as well be it the two-finger Kit Kat or the four-finger. Since Kit Kat has its price stable and has a very minor change in its price, it can still target the rural crowd by making them aware that compared to their competitors Cadbury their product is cheaper and much affordable. Demographic segmentation With the youth population getting larger, Kit Kat looks to take an advantage of that.They have also segmented the market for children, adults and aged people. Kit Kat is a type of a chocolate that is light and can be consumed by every age group. Majority of the customer base in market comprises of middle class and upper middle class. But income groups have never been a concern for Kit Kat, the prices of Kit Kat have been stable for decades and the prices are such that any income group can afford it. Psychographic segmentation Market Segmentation Market segmentation Market consists of large number of actual and potential customers. The process of splitting the market into different groups or segments based on the needs, characteristics or buyer behavior is called as Segmentation (Kotler, Brown, Adam, and Armstrong, 2007). Singapore Airlines (SIA) has used traditional approach adopted by legacy carriers for segmentation. SIA focuses on business travelers and the price sensitive leisure travelers. The business paradigm of SIA has clearly differentiated these two segments by catering to their heterogonous need. In order to penetrate their existing market and expand their revenue base they are also focusing on additional segment based on consumer loyalty. The increasing revenue of SIA has been depicted in appendix 1. Detailed analysis of segmentation strategy used by Singapore Airline is given as below: Psychographic variables Preferences: The two major groups of business and leisure travelers differ in their preferences. It’s believed that on an average in aviation industry elite travelers contribute up to 50% of revenue though they add up to less than 20% in passenger number (Brancatelli, 2009). Hence the preference of this particular segment (Business travelers) is given additional importance. They are given exclusive in-flight service with respect to variety of cuisines being served, exotic drinks and special seating comfort (Wirtz and Johnston, 2003). At the same time since the other segment i. e. the leisure travelers form the major chunk of passengers their preferences also cannot be ignored. They too are given in-flight services which can be termed best as per industry practices. Nature of demand: Since the nature of demand varies with respect to business and leisure travelers it is used as a parameter for discriminator analysis. Business travelers demand more working space, internet and telephone connections whereas leisure travelers demand more in-flight entertainment features (Singapore Airlines, 2009) Behavioral variables: Brand loyalty: Customer loyalty can also be used as a basis for market segmentation (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA has also segmented their market on the basis of customer loyalty. Retaining an existing customer goes a long way in bringing in additional revenues for the company and this is exactly the reason why SIA has chosen loyalty as a variable for segmentation. SIA gives KrisFlyer and PPS club membership to their loyal customers in a bid to retain their loyalty. KrisFlyer silver group members, enjoy certain privileges such as they are allowed to fly on short notice even if the reservation is not confirmed. Similarly PPS club members are given privileges like free accident and travel insurance, increased baggage allowance etc. Singapore Airlines, 2009) Targeting Target marketing basically refers to the division of the market into various different segments and then focusing on prominent and significant key segments (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA targets customers based on lifestyle, income group and social class. Lifestyle SIA targets segments based on lifestyle (Murali and Murali, 2008). SIA ensures that customers, who give more importance to comfort and luxury , have a great experience on board. SIA places special focus on high end and discerning customers and targets customers accordingly. Income Group Income group is also used as a parameter for targeting customers (Murali et al, 2008). SIA is a premium airline which focuses on providing value based flying experience to the customer and it comes with a heavy price tag. Hence, SIA aims to tap the high and middle income groups which are more likely to pay for quality. Social Class SIA also targets customers based on their social class. Every social class has beliefs and attitudes, which shapes their buying behavior (Kotler et al, 2007). People belonging to the elite class will go for a high end brand, so being a luxury airline SIA targets the high social classes. Positioning Positioning can be defined as the process of framing the image of a company in the view of the target market, based on the products and services offered (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA positions itself as a premium luxury carrier. SIA portrays itself as an airline that provides all the luxuries that one may desire while travelling, be it comforts, a hospitable crew or an overwhelming in-flight experience. The primary message used by SIA, is self explanatory; A Great Way to Fly (Singapore Airlines, 2009). The marketing strategy has been consistent all the way, the message that SIA wants to send across to the target market is that; it is the best airline in its segment. SIA joined the Star Alliance in 2000, which is the first and the largest airline alliance of its kind (Singapore Airlines, 2009). The â€Å"Singapore Girl† strategy was a very influential idea that gave SIA the push it needed and went on to become a very successful brand icon (Roll, 2009). This brand personality of â€Å"Singapore Girl† further helps them reaffirm their position as an airline which provides high level of hospitality. Brand positioning for SIA is depicted in the diagram shown below. The strategy adapted by SIA is to position themselves as a high quality and high value brand and especially with the â€Å"Singapore Girl† concept they show the level of hospitality offered to the customers. SIA positions itself away from the competitors in every class, be it economy class, business class or first class. In the above diagram; AIQ – AirAsia ALK – Srilankan Airlines DLH – Lufthansa SIA – Singapore Airlines In the current scenario, where premium airlines are cutting down onboard services to reduce prices in order to compete with the low-cost carriers, SIA continues to maintain their brand image. The management of SIA believes that there are customers willing to spend a good amount for quality products and services (Roll, 2009). So looking for high end customers is not an issue, rather their job is to position the brand in such a way that customers get attracted to fly on SIA, and so far SIA has been able to create, what they refer to as the Wow Effect (Wirtz et al, 2003). Market Segmentation Market segmentation Market consists of large number of actual and potential customers. The process of splitting the market into different groups or segments based on the needs, characteristics or buyer behavior is called as Segmentation (Kotler, Brown, Adam, and Armstrong, 2007). Singapore Airlines (SIA) has used traditional approach adopted by legacy carriers for segmentation. SIA focuses on business travelers and the price sensitive leisure travelers. The business paradigm of SIA has clearly differentiated these two segments by catering to their heterogonous need. In order to penetrate their existing market and expand their revenue base they are also focusing on additional segment based on consumer loyalty. The increasing revenue of SIA has been depicted in appendix 1. Detailed analysis of segmentation strategy used by Singapore Airline is given as below: Psychographic variables Preferences: The two major groups of business and leisure travelers differ in their preferences. It’s believed that on an average in aviation industry elite travelers contribute up to 50% of revenue though they add up to less than 20% in passenger number (Brancatelli, 2009). Hence the preference of this particular segment (Business travelers) is given additional importance. They are given exclusive in-flight service with respect to variety of cuisines being served, exotic drinks and special seating comfort (Wirtz and Johnston, 2003). At the same time since the other segment i. e. the leisure travelers form the major chunk of passengers their preferences also cannot be ignored. They too are given in-flight services which can be termed best as per industry practices. Nature of demand: Since the nature of demand varies with respect to business and leisure travelers it is used as a parameter for discriminator analysis. Business travelers demand more working space, internet and telephone connections whereas leisure travelers demand more in-flight entertainment features (Singapore Airlines, 2009) Behavioral variables: Brand loyalty: Customer loyalty can also be used as a basis for market segmentation (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA has also segmented their market on the basis of customer loyalty. Retaining an existing customer goes a long way in bringing in additional revenues for the company and this is exactly the reason why SIA has chosen loyalty as a variable for segmentation. SIA gives KrisFlyer and PPS club membership to their loyal customers in a bid to retain their loyalty. KrisFlyer silver group members, enjoy certain privileges such as they are allowed to fly on short notice even if the reservation is not confirmed. Similarly PPS club members are given privileges like free accident and travel insurance, increased baggage allowance etc. Singapore Airlines, 2009) Targeting Target marketing basically refers to the division of the market into various different segments and then focusing on prominent and significant key segments (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA targets customers based on lifestyle, income group and social class. Lifestyle SIA targets segments based on lifestyle (Murali and Murali, 2008). SIA ensures that customers, who give more importance to comfort and luxury , have a great experience on board. SIA places special focus on high end and discerning customers and targets customers accordingly. Income Group Income group is also used as a parameter for targeting customers (Murali et al, 2008). SIA is a premium airline which focuses on providing value based flying experience to the customer and it comes with a heavy price tag. Hence, SIA aims to tap the high and middle income groups which are more likely to pay for quality. Social Class SIA also targets customers based on their social class. Every social class has beliefs and attitudes, which shapes their buying behavior (Kotler et al, 2007). People belonging to the elite class will go for a high end brand, so being a luxury airline SIA targets the high social classes. Positioning Positioning can be defined as the process of framing the image of a company in the view of the target market, based on the products and services offered (Kotler et al, 2007). SIA positions itself as a premium luxury carrier. SIA portrays itself as an airline that provides all the luxuries that one may desire while travelling, be it comforts, a hospitable crew or an overwhelming in-flight experience. The primary message used by SIA, is self explanatory; A Great Way to Fly (Singapore Airlines, 2009). The marketing strategy has been consistent all the way, the message that SIA wants to send across to the target market is that; it is the best airline in its segment. SIA joined the Star Alliance in 2000, which is the first and the largest airline alliance of its kind (Singapore Airlines, 2009). The â€Å"Singapore Girl† strategy was a very influential idea that gave SIA the push it needed and went on to become a very successful brand icon (Roll, 2009). This brand personality of â€Å"Singapore Girl† further helps them reaffirm their position as an airline which provides high level of hospitality. Brand positioning for SIA is depicted in the diagram shown below. The strategy adapted by SIA is to position themselves as a high quality and high value brand and especially with the â€Å"Singapore Girl† concept they show the level of hospitality offered to the customers. SIA positions itself away from the competitors in every class, be it economy class, business class or first class. In the above diagram; AIQ – AirAsia ALK – Srilankan Airlines DLH – Lufthansa SIA – Singapore Airlines In the current scenario, where premium airlines are cutting down onboard services to reduce prices in order to compete with the low-cost carriers, SIA continues to maintain their brand image. The management of SIA believes that there are customers willing to spend a good amount for quality products and services (Roll, 2009). So looking for high end customers is not an issue, rather their job is to position the brand in such a way that customers get attracted to fly on SIA, and so far SIA has been able to create, what they refer to as the Wow Effect (Wirtz et al, 2003).