John Locke Essays -- Empiricists, Empiricism

John Locke believes that man ought to have more freedom in political society than John Stuart Mill does. John Locke's The Second Treatise of Government and John Stuart Mill's On Liberty are influential and potent literary works which while outlining the conceptual framework of each thinkers ideal state present two divergent visions of the very nature of man and his freedom. John Locke and John Stuart Mill have different views regarding how much freedom man ought to have in political society because they have different views regarding man's basic potential for inherently good or evil behavior, as well as the ends or purpose of political societies. In order to examine how each thinker views man and the freedom he ought to have in political society it is necessary to define freedom or liberty from each philosophers perspective. In The Second Treatise of Government, John Locke states his belief that all men exist in "a state of perfect freedom to order their actions and dispose of t heir possessions and person as they think fit, within the bounds of the law of nature, without asking leave or depending upon the will of any other man. " (Locke 4) Locke believes that man exists in a state of nature and thus exists in a state of uncontrollable liberty which has only the law of nature to restrict it, which is reason. (Locke 5) However Locke does state that man does not have the license to destroy himself or any other creature in his possession unless a legitimate purpose requires it. Locke emphasizes the ability and opportunity to own and profit from property as being necessary to be free. In On Liberty John Stuart Mill defines liberty in relation to three spheres; each successive sphere progressively encompasses and defines more elements relating to political society. The first sphere consists of the individuals "inward domain of consciousness; demanding liberty of conscious in the most comprehensive sense; liberty of thought and feeling; absolute freedom of opinion and sentiment on all subjects, practical or speculative, scientific, moral, or theological." (Mill 13) The second sphere of Mill's definition encompasses the general freedoms which allow an individual to freely peruse a "...life to suit our own character; of doing as we like..." (Mill 13). Mill also states that these freedoms must not be interfered with by "fellow crea... ...ave left an indelible mark on the concept of freedom in political societies. John Locke favours greater freedom for man in political society than does John Stuart Mill does. Their beliefs regarding the nature of man and the purpose of the state are bound to their respective views regarding freedom because one position perpetuates and demands a conclusion regarding another. Locke system for dealing with man freedom and all other related matters severely limits the role of state to strictly guaranteeing individual freedom. This is the best method of preventing the perversion and abuse of the role and power of the state. Locke views simply stem from his faith in man and his potential to succeed independently, which collectively promotes the prosperity of the state. Mill does not implicitly trust or distrust man and therefore does not explicitly limit freedom, in fact he does define freedom in very liberal terms, however he does leave the potential for unlimited intervention into the personal freedoms of the individual by the state. This nullifies any freedoms or rights individuals are said to have because they subject to the whims and fancy of the state. from: ksampson@mustang.uwo.ca

Regression Analysis

REGRESSION ANALYSIS Correlation only indicates the degree and direction of relationship between two variables. It does not, necessarily connote a cause-effect relationship. Even when there are grounds to believe the causal relationship exits, correlation does not tell us which variable is the cause and which, the effect. For example, the demand for a commodity and its price will generally be found to be correlated, but the question whether demand depends on price or vice-versa; will not be answered by correlation. The dictionary meaning of the ‘regression’ is the act of the returning or going back. The term ‘regression’ was first used by Francis Galton in 1877 while studying the relationship between the heights of fathers and sons. â€Å"Regression is the measure of the average relationship between two or more variables in terms of the original units of data. † The line of regression is the line, which gives the best estimate to the values of one variable for any specific values of other variables. For two variables on regression analysis, there are two regression lines. One line as the regression of x on y and other is for regression of y on x. These two regression line show the average relationship between the two variables. The regression line of y on x gives the most probable value of y for given value of x and the regression line of x and y gives the most probable values of x for the given value of y. For perfect correlation, positive or negative i. e. for r=  ±, the two lines coincide i. e. we will find only one straight line. If r=0, i. e. both the variance are independent then the two lines will cut each other at a right angle. In this case the two lines will be  ¦to x and y axis. The Graph is given below:- We restrict our discussion to linear relationships only that is the equations to be considered are 1- y=a+bx – x=a+by In equation first x is called the independent variable and y the dependent variable. Conditional on the x value, the equations gives the variation of y. In other words ,it means that corresponding to each value of x ,there is whole conditional probability distribution of y. Similar discussion holds for the equation second, where y acts as independent variable and x as dependent variable. What purpose does regression line serve? 1- The first object is to estimate the dependent variable from known values of independent variable. This is possible from regression line. – The next objective is to obtain a measure of the error involved in using regression line for estimation. 3- With the help of regression coefficients we can calculate the correlation coefficient. The square of correlation coefficient (r), is called coefficient of determination, measure the degree of association of correlation that exits between two variables. What is the difference between correlation and linear regression? Correlation and linear regression are not the same. Consider these differences: †¢ Correlation quantifies the degree to which two variables are related. Correlation does not find  a best-fit line (that is regression). You simply are computing a correlation coefficient (r) that tells you how much one variable tends to change when the other one does. †¢ With correlation you don't have to think about cause and effect. You simply quantify how well two variables relate to each other. With regression, you do have to think about cause and effect as the regression line is determined as the best way to predict Y from X. †¢ With correlation,  it doesn't matter which of the two variables you call â€Å"X† and which you call â€Å"Y†. You'll get the same correlation coefficient if you swap the two. With linear regression, the decision of which variable you call â€Å"X† and which you call â€Å"Y† matters a lot, as you'll get a different best-fit line if you swap the two. The line that best predicts Y from X is not the same as the line that predicts X from Y. †¢ Correlation is almost always used when you measure both variables. It rarely is appropriate when one variable is something you experimentally manipulate. With linear regression, the X variable is often something you experimental manipulate (time, concentration†¦ and the Y variable is something you measure. Regression analysis is widely used for  prediction  (including  forecasting  of  time-series  data). Use of regression analysis for prediction has substantial overlap with the field of  machine learning. Regression analysis is also used to understand which among the independent variables are related to the dependent variable, and to explore the forms of these relationships. In restricted circumstances, regression analysis can be used to infer  causal relationships  between the independent and dependent variables. A large body of techniques for carrying out regression analysis has been developed. Familiar methods such as  linear regression  and  ordinary least squares  regression are  parametric, in that the regression function is defined in terms of a finite number of unknown  parameters  that are estimated from the  data. Nonparametric regression  refers to techniques that allow the regression function to lie in a specified set of  functions, which may beinfinite-dimensional. The performance of regression analysis methods in practice depends on the form of the data-generating process, and how it relates to the regression approach being used. Since the true form of the data-generating process is not known, regression analysis depends to some extent on making assumptions about this process. These assumptions are sometimes (but not always) testable if a large amount of data is available. Regression models for prediction are often useful even when the assumptions are moderately violated, although they may not perform optimally. However when carrying out  inference  using regression models, especially involving small  effects  or questions of  causality  based on  observational data, regression methods must be used cautiously as they can easily give misleading results. Underlying assumptions Classical assumptions for regression analysis include: ? The sample must be representative of the population for the inference prediction. ? The error is assumed to be a  random variable  with a mean of zero conditional on the explanatory variables. ? The variables are error-free. If this is not so, modeling may be done using  errors-in-variables model  techniques. ? The predictors must be  linearly independent, i. e. it must not be possible to express any predictor as a linear combination of the others. SeeMulticollinearity. The errors are  uncorrelated, that is, the  variance-covariance matrix  of the errors is  diagonal  and each non-zero element is the variance of the error. ? The variance of the error is constant across observations (homoscedasticity). If not,  weighted least squares  or other methods might be used. These are sufficient (but not all necessary) conditions for the least-squares estimator to possess desirable propertie s, in particular, these assumptions imply that the parameter estimates will be  unbiased,  consistent, and  efficient  in the class of linear unbiased estimators. Many of these assumptions may be relaxed in more advanced treatments. Basic Formula of Regression Analysis:- X=a+by (Regression line x on y) Y=a+bx (Regression line y on x) 1st – Regression equation of x on y:- 2nd – Regression equation of y on x:- Regression Coefficient:- Case 1st – when x on y means regression coefficient is ‘bxy’ Case 2nd – when y on x means regression coefficient is ‘byx’ Least Square Estimation:- The main object of constructing statistical relationship is to predict or explain the effects on one dependent variable resulting from changes in one or more explanatory variables. Under the least square criteria, the line of best fit is said to be that which minimizes the sum of the squared residuals between the points of the graph and the points of straight line. The least squares method is the most widely used procedure for developing estimates of the model parameters. The graph of the estimated regression equation for simple linear regression is a straight line approximation to the relationship between y and x. When regression equations obtained directly that is without taking deviation from actual or assumed mean then the two Normal equations are to be solved simultaneously as follows; For Regression Equation of x on y i. e. x=a+by The two Normal Equations are:- For Regression Equation of y on x i. e. y=a+bx The two Normal Equations are:- Remarks:- 1- It may be noted that both the regression coefficient ( x on y means bxy and y on x means byx ) cannot exceed 1. 2- Both the regression coefficient shall either be positive + or negative -. 3- Correlation coefficient (r) will have same sign as that of regression coefficient. Regression Analysis REGRESSION ANALYSIS Correlation only indicates the degree and direction of relationship between two variables. It does not, necessarily connote a cause-effect relationship. Even when there are grounds to believe the causal relationship exits, correlation does not tell us which variable is the cause and which, the effect. For example, the demand for a commodity and its price will generally be found to be correlated, but the question whether demand depends on price or vice-versa; will not be answered by correlation. The dictionary meaning of the ‘regression’ is the act of the returning or going back. The term ‘regression’ was first used by Francis Galton in 1877 while studying the relationship between the heights of fathers and sons. â€Å"Regression is the measure of the average relationship between two or more variables in terms of the original units of data. † The line of regression is the line, which gives the best estimate to the values of one variable for any specific values of other variables. For two variables on regression analysis, there are two regression lines. One line as the regression of x on y and other is for regression of y on x. These two regression line show the average relationship between the two variables. The regression line of y on x gives the most probable value of y for given value of x and the regression line of x and y gives the most probable values of x for the given value of y. For perfect correlation, positive or negative i. e. for r=  ±, the two lines coincide i. e. we will find only one straight line. If r=0, i. e. both the variance are independent then the two lines will cut each other at a right angle. In this case the two lines will be  ¦to x and y axis. The Graph is given below:- We restrict our discussion to linear relationships only that is the equations to be considered are 1- y=a+bx – x=a+by In equation first x is called the independent variable and y the dependent variable. Conditional on the x value, the equations gives the variation of y. In other words ,it means that corresponding to each value of x ,there is whole conditional probability distribution of y. Similar discussion holds for the equation second, where y acts as independent variable and x as dependent variable. What purpose does regression line serve? 1- The first object is to estimate the dependent variable from known values of independent variable. This is possible from regression line. – The next objective is to obtain a measure of the error involved in using regression line for estimation. 3- With the help of regression coefficients we can calculate the correlation coefficient. The square of correlation coefficient (r), is called coefficient of determination, measure the degree of association of correlation that exits between two variables. What is the difference between correlation and linear regression? Correlation and linear regression are not the same. Consider these differences: †¢ Correlation quantifies the degree to which two variables are related. Correlation does not find  a best-fit line (that is regression). You simply are computing a correlation coefficient (r) that tells you how much one variable tends to change when the other one does. †¢ With correlation you don't have to think about cause and effect. You simply quantify how well two variables relate to each other. With regression, you do have to think about cause and effect as the regression line is determined as the best way to predict Y from X. †¢ With correlation,  it doesn't matter which of the two variables you call â€Å"X† and which you call â€Å"Y†. You'll get the same correlation coefficient if you swap the two. With linear regression, the decision of which variable you call â€Å"X† and which you call â€Å"Y† matters a lot, as you'll get a different best-fit line if you swap the two. The line that best predicts Y from X is not the same as the line that predicts X from Y. †¢ Correlation is almost always used when you measure both variables. It rarely is appropriate when one variable is something you experimentally manipulate. With linear regression, the X variable is often something you experimental manipulate (time, concentration†¦ and the Y variable is something you measure. Regression analysis is widely used for  prediction  (including  forecasting  of  time-series  data). Use of regression analysis for prediction has substantial overlap with the field of  machine learning. Regression analysis is also used to understand which among the independent variables are related to the dependent variable, and to explore the forms of these relationships. In restricted circumstances, regression analysis can be used to infer  causal relationships  between the independent and dependent variables. A large body of techniques for carrying out regression analysis has been developed. Familiar methods such as  linear regression  and  ordinary least squares  regression are  parametric, in that the regression function is defined in terms of a finite number of unknown  parameters  that are estimated from the  data. Nonparametric regression  refers to techniques that allow the regression function to lie in a specified set of  functions, which may beinfinite-dimensional. The performance of regression analysis methods in practice depends on the form of the data-generating process, and how it relates to the regression approach being used. Since the true form of the data-generating process is not known, regression analysis depends to some extent on making assumptions about this process. These assumptions are sometimes (but not always) testable if a large amount of data is available. Regression models for prediction are often useful even when the assumptions are moderately violated, although they may not perform optimally. However when carrying out  inference  using regression models, especially involving small  effects  or questions of  causality  based on  observational data, regression methods must be used cautiously as they can easily give misleading results. Underlying assumptions Classical assumptions for regression analysis include: ? The sample must be representative of the population for the inference prediction. ? The error is assumed to be a  random variable  with a mean of zero conditional on the explanatory variables. ? The variables are error-free. If this is not so, modeling may be done using  errors-in-variables model  techniques. ? The predictors must be  linearly independent, i. e. it must not be possible to express any predictor as a linear combination of the others. SeeMulticollinearity. The errors are  uncorrelated, that is, the  variance-covariance matrix  of the errors is  diagonal  and each non-zero element is the variance of the error. ? The variance of the error is constant across observations (homoscedasticity). If not,  weighted least squares  or other methods might be used. These are sufficient (but not all necessary) conditions for the least-squares estimator to possess desirable propertie s, in particular, these assumptions imply that the parameter estimates will be  unbiased,  consistent, and  efficient  in the class of linear unbiased estimators. Many of these assumptions may be relaxed in more advanced treatments. Basic Formula of Regression Analysis:- X=a+by (Regression line x on y) Y=a+bx (Regression line y on x) 1st – Regression equation of x on y:- 2nd – Regression equation of y on x:- Regression Coefficient:- Case 1st – when x on y means regression coefficient is ‘bxy’ Case 2nd – when y on x means regression coefficient is ‘byx’ Least Square Estimation:- The main object of constructing statistical relationship is to predict or explain the effects on one dependent variable resulting from changes in one or more explanatory variables. Under the least square criteria, the line of best fit is said to be that which minimizes the sum of the squared residuals between the points of the graph and the points of straight line. The least squares method is the most widely used procedure for developing estimates of the model parameters. The graph of the estimated regression equation for simple linear regression is a straight line approximation to the relationship between y and x. When regression equations obtained directly that is without taking deviation from actual or assumed mean then the two Normal equations are to be solved simultaneously as follows; For Regression Equation of x on y i. e. x=a+by The two Normal Equations are:- For Regression Equation of y on x i. e. y=a+bx The two Normal Equations are:- Remarks:- 1- It may be noted that both the regression coefficient ( x on y means bxy and y on x means byx ) cannot exceed 1. 2- Both the regression coefficient shall either be positive + or negative -. 3- Correlation coefficient (r) will have same sign as that of regression coefficient.

The Communication of Window Displays

Retailer:Ted BAker Word Count: 1268 The Communication of Window Displays â€Å"Visual merchandising is an indispensable retail discipline, consisting of a series of practical selling tools that are used to influence what and how much consumers buy† (McKeever, K. 2008). A window display represents the various dynamics used to communicate a message to its target audience. This essay will analyse the way in which Ted Baker conveys its position in the market and brand identity by effectively portraying quality and attention to detail in its window displays.This essay will then compare the successfulness of two different approaches – â€Å"theme focussed display†, and â€Å"product focussed display† – in enticing Ted Baker’s potential customers. This will develop a conclusion on the effectiveness of Ted Baker’s window displays to act as â€Å"silent sellers† (Levine, P. 2008) and enable customers to relate to the brand. Ted Baker use s elements such as the psychological effect of colour, lighting and appropriately chosen props to enable its customer to interpret its position in the market as an â€Å"upper high street brand†.Figure 1: Use of luxurious colours by Ted Baker ( Source: Vaswani, 2012 In various online customer reviews (yelp. com, zappos. com), the attributes that Ted Baker’s products are associated with are commitment to quality and unwavering attention to detail. Interviews with 30 onlookers regarding the window displays on Regent Street revealed that the use of luxurious colours (browns, rich reds, strong neons) along with the warm yellow lighting are the factors that enabled the customers to interpret the quality of the products to be superior.Additionally, the props used in the Ted Baker windows highlight the attention that is devoted to details at the micro level, not only in the products, but also in the window displays. The importance of using appropriate props is highlighted by Tony Morgan’s (2011, p54) statement, â€Å"Props should be relevant to the merchandise to make the overall idea come to life†. In line with this, Ted Baker used bows and arrows as props to complement their autumn winter â€Å"Survival of the Fittest† collection. These props provide a wild and â€Å"outdoorsy† feel to the window.This proves that there is a deep level of intricacy that has gone into the selection of the props used in the window displays. This supports the upper high street positioning of the brand within the market. All these factors confirm that Ted Baker’s usage of the above elements is effective in conveying its market positioning. A comparison between the effectiveness of a â€Å"theme-focused† and â€Å"product-focused† display will establish whether Ted Baker’s frequent usage of themes in their windows is the right approach to capture the attention of potential customers.For their display in October, Ted Ba ker had ingeniously used the theory of â€Å"the survival of the fittest† to create a humorous theme in their window supporting their autumn/winter merchandise. Figure 2: Survival of the fittest themed window Source: displayhunter. com, 2012 Charles Darwin (1869, On the origin of species) explained â€Å"survival of the fittest† to be â€Å"the natural selection, or the preservation of favoured races in the struggle for life. † The message behind the story in the display is that Ted Baker merchandise is the â€Å"fittest† and would transcend the wearer from the ordinary.By labelling their merchandise as the â€Å"fittest† and rather a necessity, the brand teasingly talks about how the upcoming autumn winter weather is going to be a struggle. Interpretations of several passers-by confirm that this theme was making a joke about the â€Å"Great British weather† and the only way to conquest this struggle was to wear Ted Baker’s merchandis e. Figure 3: Christmas with Frosty Source: Vaswani,2012 The most recent window display, the Christmas display, paints a picture of a Christmas party, the guest of honour being a drunken snowman named â€Å"Frosty† in a festive red thong and Santa Clause hat.The visual merchandising team believe that the movement of the snowman captures attention as peoples’ eyes are drawn towards motion. This statement was confirmed by primary research and observation. Out of a sample of 100 people passing by the shop, seven out of ten stopped to look at the window display (A few even took pictures with the snowman in the window) Five out of these seven went into the store. Figure 4: Frosty the snowman Source: Vaswani, 2012 In both these window displays, Ted Baker uses humorous themes to engage its quirky target audience.The window displays act like â€Å"silent sellers† because they successfully convert onlookers into customers by reeling them in. However, in the second week of October, Ted Baker used a more product-focused window to display their collection. The sales assistant at the Regent Street store identified that the merchandise displayed was mainly evening wear that could be worn for occasions like upcoming Christmas parties. The mannequins were placed in repetition, which â€Å"reinforces and strengthens the impression through replication† (Gorman,G. 996 Visual Merchandising and store design workbook, p20). Also the background was a mirror, â€Å"people tend to slow down when they see reflective surfaces† (Underhill, 2002, Why we buy, p76). The window did have these two strengths but interviews with in-store customers established that the display looked â€Å"boring† and â€Å"as if very little thought and effort had been put into it†. A customer also quoted, â€Å"In comparison to the exciting displays from earlier, this one is a let down†. Figure 5: Ted Baker’s product focused displaySource: Vaswani, 2 012 The sales assistant at the Regent Street store identified that the merchandise displayed was mainly evening wear that could be worn for occasions like upcoming Christmas parties. The mannequins were placed in repetition, which â€Å"reinforces and strengthens the impression through replication† (Gorman,G. 1996 Visual Merchandising and store design workbook, p20). Also the background was a mirror, â€Å"people tend to slow down when they see reflective surfaces† (Underhill, 2002, Why we buy, p76).The window did have these two strengths but interviews with in-store customers established that the display looked â€Å"boring† and â€Å"as if very little thought and effort had been put into it†. A customer also quoted, â€Å"In comparison to the exciting displays from earlier, this one is a let down†. This means that, the Ted Baker customer expects excitement and an engaging theme in the windows. Also based on the description of the windows by the c ustomers, the reflection of the brand’s personality is key to Ted Baker’s display.Evidently, a product-focused window display is inept in this aspect. â€Å"A stores’ window is effectual if it tempts customers†(Portas, 2007). This statement creates stress on the fact that the window display was ineffectual due to its inability to lure customers. From this comparison, we can conclude that, â€Å"theme-focused† window displays are more effective than â€Å"product-focused† display as they create visual excitement and help the customer relate to the brand. The Ted Baker customer enjoys the portrayal of the brand’s humorous and quirky image through its engaging and impactful themes.In conclusion it can be said that, through its window displays, Ted Baker communicates its position of being an upper high street retailer in the market. For this, it uses to its advantage the psychological effect created by colour and lighting and the appropri ate usage and selection of props in its window displays. The windows are a true and effectual representation of the brand’s core values which are- quality and attention to detail. Ted Bakers frequent use of â€Å"theme-focused† window displays is a powerful and efficient approach to draw in their target customers who expect enthusing displays that would make them engrossed and curious.Finally, the strategies and approaches that Ted Baker uses in the creation and execution of its window displays are effective â€Å"silent sellers†. REFERENCE LIST: Darwin, C (1869). On the origin of species. 5th ed. Gorman, G (1996). Visual Merchandising and store design workbook. Ohio: ST Media Group Publisher. p20. Levine, P. (2010). Visual Merchandising: The ‘Silent Salesperson'. [online] Available: http://www. salesandmarketing. com/article/visual-merchandising-silent-salesperson. Last accessed 25th September 2012 McKeever, K. (2008). favourite quotes. Available: http:// thevisualmerchandisingblog. ordpress. com/favorite-quotes/. Last accessed 20th September 2012 Morgan, T (2011). Visual Merchandising: Window and in-store displays for retail. 2nd ed. London: Laurence King Publications. p54. Portas, M (2007). favourite quotes. Available: http://thevisualmerchandisingblog. wordpress. com/favorite-quotes/> [online] Last accessed 20th September 2012 Underhill, P (2002). Why we buy. New York: Simon and Schuster. p76. http://www. yelp. com/biz/ted-baker-london-new-york (2012) [online] last accessed 27th September 2012 http://www. zappos. com/ted-baker (2009) [online] last assessed 27th September 2012REFERENCE LIST FOR IMAGES: Vaswani, D. (2012) Figure 1:Use of luxurious colours by Ted Baker [Photograph]. Regent Street Store Figure 2:Survival of the fittest themed window(2012) [online image]. Available at: http://displayhunter. blogspot. co. uk/2012/11/ted-baker-hunting-game. html [Accessed 23rd November 2012] Vaswani, D. (2012) Figure 3:Christmas with Fro sty [Photograph]. Regent Street Store Vaswani, D. (2012) Figure 4:Frosty the Snowman [Photograph]. Regent Street Store Vaswani, D. (2012) Figure 5:Ted Baker’s product focused display [Photograph]. Regent Street StoreBIBLIOGRAPHY: Cabezas, C (2010). Design Techniques for window dressing: Ideaspropias Editorial Danzinger, P (2002) Why people buy things they don’t need New York: Paramount Market Publishing Din, Rassheid (2000) New Retail London: Conron Octopus Limited Eszter Czibok. (2012). The window- a reflection of our desires. Available: http://workinginthewindow. wordpress. com/tag/window-display/. Last accessed 2nd November 2012 Gardner, A (2000) The 30 second seduction California: Seal Press http://fre23media. blogspot. co. uk/2010/11/window-displays-original-communication. html. 2010). Window displays: the original communication tool. Available: http://fre23media. blogspot. co. uk/2010/11/window-displays-original-communication. html. Last accessed 3rd November 201 2 Holly Bastow-Shoop . (1991). Visual Merchandising: A guide for small retailers. Available: http://ncrcrd. msu. edu/uploads/files/133/NCRCRD-rrd155-print. pdf. Last accessed 11th October Kaisa Leinonen. (2010). Autumn/Winter 2010 Trend Report: Mirrors as Display Props. Available: http://thewindowdisplayblog. com/2010/11/01/autumnwinter-2010-trend-report-mirrors-as-display-props/.Last accessed 11th October Marie, S. (2006). A History of Visual Merchandising in Retail Stores. Available: http://sarahmarie1. hubpages. com/hub/A-History-of-Visual-Merchandising-in-Retail-Stores. Last accessed 9th October 2012 Messaris, P (1997) Visual Persuasion- The Role of Images London: Sage Publications Sturken, M , Cartwright, L (2000) Practices of Looking- An introduction Oxford: Oxford University Press Sussen Madden Understand visual merchandising for a small business. Available: http://www. retailtraining. ie/pdf/Unit-259. pdf. Last accessed 3rd October 2012 The Communication of Window Displays ‘Windows reveal the soul of the store’ (Portas, 1999: 41). Every store has its own concept that characterizes each display, varying from theatre, drama or in the case of Armani Exchange minimalism. Well-dressed windows are undoubtedly, a dynamic form of advertising for products reflecting the stores’ brand image. This essay seeks to evaluate how A|X Armani Exchange’s window displays communicate to spectators with the use of various resources. Armani Exchange is one of the sub-brands under the parental brand of Giorgio Armani. The use of colour, lighting, props and graphics can capture interest, indicating the foundation of any decent display whose aim is to get people off the street. Windows are used as a selling device promoting products. They also mirror what the store is about, bringing pleasure to the eye. A stores’ window is effectual if it tempts customers who will want and be able to purchase the products offered, conveying quality, style and pricing (Portas, 2007). Moreover, windows can lure someone in a shop due to psychological factors. Brand founders such as Armani and Dior, give their own unique identity on their products and are therefore based on persona. As an online source says ‘Armani Exchange has become one of the most dynamic collections with its own unique identity, as well as an ever-growing base of young customers’ (www.ameinfo.com/192218.html). City life is emitted through its concept of sexy, chic and stalwart garments. Hence, it can be said that quality along with brand loyalty comes before the cost. Windows work on the principle â€Å"first impression is the best impression†, implying that only a few seconds are needed for a display to â€Å"speak† to a passer-by and get him/her inside a store. Portas asserts that ‘visual merchandising is the art and science of silent selling, bringing product, environment and space into one stimulating and engaging display to encourage sale’ (Drapers, O ctober 29: 34). This is shown by the power of Armani Exchange’s logo -with grey background and white letters signifying practicality, neutrality but also timelessness- which is becoming more and more recognisable. Furthermore, Armani Exchange’s target customers are both independent male and female who have their own style, belonging in the age group of 16-35. It is more accessible to the bourgeoisie, who want a taste of the luxurious brand. Given that prices are lower than the rest of the Armani sub-brands, the apparel is more inclusive to the public. This stores’ clientele may work as managers, interns or may even be students living in East London. Additionally, they may go out for a drink, coffee or shopping at least once a week, or read magazines like Vogue. Other stores they visit include Zara and Benetton. What is more CPI is escalating; competition is astonishingly high while consumer spending started to fall as September figures show because of pessimism (www.guardian.co.uk, 2010). As a result, retail sales are expected to fall in the following months, along with a rise in VAT. Armani Exchange windows’ are open-back; implying there is ‘no back wall’ (Morgan: 44). The striptease effect is clear as we can see the internal displays emphasizing the focal point through the space between the mannequins, creating a more intense visual impact, which is representative of the merchandise of the store. A|X shows the garment’s prices at the bottom of the windowpane. Lighting from the ceiling and floor is ambient acting as a catalyst for the area (www.infostore.gr. 2010), as Figure 1 shows: Figure 1: The window shows A|X Armani Exchange’s front window in Regent Str. London, October 19, 2010 Source: Kaisidi, 2010 For autumn/winter 2010, Armani Exchange trails a repetition of dark shades evoking a monochromatic colour scheme exerting sophistication and a clean look, which are pleasing to the eye. Materials like leather and fur with metallic details indicate luxury mixed with a touch of mystery, illustrating an intellectual and confident appearance. However silver and gold details on the garments complement the black shades, making the pieces more youthful. A downside of open windows is that high-priced items showcased can be tampered if somebody wishes to feel the fabric, so they are trickier to dress. Besides that another negative aspect is that windows are not as creative since there are fewer props. Hence there is no story to tell. Silhouettes are simple yet authoritative and influential. Effective windows can ‘seduce’ (Portas, 2007: 54) you to purchase something you did not intend to. Buying even a small item, one satisfies a need, a want to feel more contented and self-confident. Also, what you wear is what defines you, reflecting your personality- as implied by Berger (1972). Windows can sway someone into investing in a garment that will make them enviable and glamorous at the same time. ‘The power to spent money is the power to live’ (Berger, 1972: 143), implying that each person interprets the world differently- the same applies in window displays. Armani Exchange has a very clean approach of â€Å"less is more† by not overloading its windows together with being â€Å"strong and simple† emphasizing the brand’s power (http://ezinearticles.com, 2010). Furthermore, by following the â€Å"fresh is best† principle in accordance with Berger (1972), they renew their displays every week thus regular customers find new stock in every visit. Still though, A|X receives deliveries every 3-4 days so that monotony is avoided. For that reason, if a jacket is received in the middle of the week, it will be put on display on that day. Visual merchandising makes ideas come alive whose purpose is to sell commodities through visualization, as induced by Clements (2010). Armani Exchange wants its customers to experience the brand with the aid of visuals. Particularly the three-dimensional sightline placed parallel with the double doors in the Regent Street shop ‘gives energy’ (Portas, 1999: 102), as shown by the image below. Figure 2: The window portrays a 3D advert for A|X sunglasses in London, October 21, 2010 Source: Kaisidi, 2010 Christmas windows however, ought to be more interesting and intriguing. Armani Exchange Christmas decoration is ruled by special effects lighting and radiation. Oval rings are beaming light that changes colour every few seconds; a different look tried by A|X. The rings are symmetrically placed next to each other, as it is clearly illustrated in the following picture: Figure 3: The window illustrates A|X Christmas dà ©cor in London, November 20, 2010 Source: Kaisidi, 2010 Despite having a sale, windows were not unattained (Portas, 1999), since signage advertising the offers are placed. What is more, it urges spectators to celebrate style with the vinyl on the windows’ glass, exploiting psychological factors to lure in onlookers. After questioning 40 citizens, calculations show that 46% found the displays of A|X attractive, although 8% felt that it did not stand out. The effect of these circles illustrates gravity, communicating with the pavement (Portas, Mary Queen of shops-Blinkz DVD). They work as pause points as they can be seen from afar, making the passers stop and browse the new collection. The aesthetic balance of the store emphasizes how the power of light can visually transform a space. One could argue that the density of the garments in Armani Exchange’s windows is just enough to fill the space available given add-ons such as bags and wallets. This is shown with Figure 4: Figure 4: The window shows A|X latest collection 3 weeks before Christmas in London, December 3, 2010 Source: Kaisidi, 2010 Mannequins are said to be a mighty tool, forming the scene of a display. In A|X, mannequins are golden and headless in order to appeal to a wider audience (Pegler, 2008). The mannequins’ outfits offer a possible wearable suggestion in which one could walk out of the store with having a feeling of fulfilment. Mannequins are front facing, but the passers can observe all the angles, as suggested by Morgan. To conclude, window displays need to clearly define the identity of a store. A|X ‘serves as the ultimate testimony to the power of the brand’ (Roll, 2010). The visual placement of the store is rather simplistic so people may think it is too plain. Equally, others who are fond of minimalism obtain a positive vibe for the specific windows, which are a compelling representation of the brand ethos. A|X has an identifiable and cohesive commercial image, which triggers the clients’ interest in conjunction with facilitating communication. All in all, Armani Exchange window displays are effective for their target customers, as they communicate their minimalistic message emitting an aesthetic purity of warmth and luxury. According to G.U Journal of Science there has not been significant empirical evidence regarding the effect of window displays on consumers’ shopping attitudes’ (2007: 33). Bibliography http://ezinearticles.com/?Window-Displays-That-Work!&id=4390505

Benifits of Academic Globalization Essay

2. Introduction: Globalization is one of the most discussed issues nowadays. It has several branches which vary from economic, cultural, academic, and industrial and many more. However, the one that is increasing at a very high rate is academic globalization. Since academic globalization includes the act of studying abroad, it can be defined as is the act of traveling of students to study in a country other than the mother one. Nowadays, students are getting many Academic Globalization l 3 opportunities to study abroad, in addition to other reasons, which is why they are studying outside their home countries. â€Å"He [Wiladavsky] stated that 3 million students are now studying outside their home countries, a 57% increase from 2000† (Apurvadesai, 2010, p. 1). These numbers show the tremendous increase in movement of students around the world. Academic globalization has become one of the most debatable issues. People who are against it believe that once the students graduate and see many opportunities to work abroad they would not come back. On the other hand, people who are with it believe that it provides the students with better education and higher experience. In fact, academic globalization can be beneficial in several ways. 3. Literature review: Apurvadesia (2010), comments on the discussion of the World Affairs council which focuses on the rise of academic globalization. According to Wiladavsky, who was among the speakers, there is an increase in the movement of students around the world. Moreover, he discussed the concept of global ranking that motivates students to work and study harder to reach their goals and become part of the top class. In addition to that, Apurvadesia states that the idea of brain drain is actually brain circulation. Wiladavsky (2010), argues that countries should not be afraid from globalization. On the contrary, Wiladavsky tries to shed the light on the benefits of academic globalization. He believes that it helps in expanding knowledge and in trading of minds. Moreover, Wiladavsky tries to shed the light on the opposing point of view and give reasons behind the fear of globalization. Academic Globalization l 4 Wiladavsky (2010), focuses on why colleges should support globalization. Wiladavsky argues by believing that globalization of higher education helps in identifying talents. Moreover, he believes that successful competition is achieved by higher education. Goodman(2013), argues that Americans should study abroad in order to get  international experience. Moreover, he believes that student would appreciate difference and diversity through meeting new people. In addition to that, he considers that by interacting with people from different countries, students would be trained to all sectors of leaders. 4. Better education: One of the main reasons why academic globalization is beneficial is by offering a better education for the students. This is due to the fact that more opportunities and better experience are provided. 4. 1 More opportunities: Students get better education by having a wide variety of majors to choose where they fit. Some countries lack majors which are  available in others and thus, instead of doing a major that they are not interested in, they have the opportunity to study abroad the major they always dreamt of. For example, in Lebanon, petroleum engineering is not available; however, some students are interested in such a major. So instead of looking for another major to study, they can simply apply in another country which includes such majors. Moreover, a master degree is another opportunity provided in some countries and deprived in others. In developed countries such as USA or Europe, the master degree offered provides the students with better credentials. Students  Academic Globalization l 5 would be more knowledgeable and updated to recent discoveries. A student having a BS degree has less opportunity than a student having a master degree when applying a certain job especially, if the master degree was from a country offering a higher education. 4. 2 More experience: Another reason why students are provided with a better education is the high experience they get. The concept of brain circulation applies here, where students get different degrees from different countries. † A student may leave China, go to Singapore for an undergraduate degree, then to US for a Master’s degree, then  Australia to work for a couple of years, then back to China for a job with a multi-national company†(Apurvadesai, 2010,p. 2). In this example, Apurvadesai describes how having the opportunity to study in different countries provides the student with the higher experience and characteristics required for a job in a multi-national company. Moreover, living in a different country, having different culture, language, habits and lifestyle, increase experience. When students travel, they try to accommodate with the changes around them. This process provides them with higher experience when it comes to dealing with other countries. In addition to that, students will be provided with better communication skills. They would learn to speak new languages fluently due to practice and would be familiar with the demand of other countries. In this way, if there was a foreign customer, Academic Globalization l 6 the student will directly provide him/her with the service he/she is more likely to be interested in. 5. Expands global knowledge: Another reason why academic globalization is beneficial is that it helps in expanding knowledge across the world. This is achieved by discovering new talents. Some countries are deprived from a variety of domains. On the contrary,  when students travel to encounter their education, they would be exposed to a wide selection of domains. In this way, students would be able to discover new talents in them and introduce it to their local country. Moreover, academic globalization promotes the sharing of information between countries. When students get their education in a foreign country, they would be introduced to new concepts, studies and researches. People against academic globalization argue that the country offering the higher education takes away from the learning of the native country. However, introducing new concepts is not bad to other countries. In fact, as RAND economist James Hosek told the Cronicle of Higher Education that â€Å"When new knowledge is created, it is a public good and can be used by many†(Wiladavsky, 2010, p. 3). When students return back to their countries, they would share the knowledge they acquired and help in developing their nations. 6. Conclusion: In conclusion, academic globalization is a trend that is increasing at a very high rate. It is a one of the most debatable issues in the society. Some people are with it and think it is beneficial, while others are against it and think it is harmful. However, it can be beneficial in several ways. It provides better education for Academic Globalization l 7 students through having more experiences and opportunities. Moreover, academic globalization promotes global knowledge between different countries leading to the free trade of mind. In fact, people should support academic globalization to develop the whole world. 7. References: Apurvadesai. (May 15, 2010). Academic Globalization- The Emergence of International Universities. In Reading, Writing and Reflecting. Retrieved from http://apurvadesai. com/2010/05/15/academic-globalization-the-emergence -of-international-universities/ Goodman, A. E. , Berdan, S. N. (October 17, 2013). A Year Abroad vs. a Year Wasted. In The New York Times. Retrieved from, http://www. nytimes. com/roomfordebate/2013/10/17/should-more-american s-study-abroad/every-student-should-study-abroad Wildavsky, B. (January 5, 2010). Academic Globalization Should Be Welcomed. Not Feared. In Brookings. Retrieved from, http://brookings. edu/research/articles/2010/01/15- globalization-wildavsky. Wildavsky, B. (April 4, 2010). Why Colleges Shouldn’t Fear Global Competition. In The Chronicle of Higher Education. Retrieved from, http://chronicle. com/article/The-Global-Benefits-of/64932/. Academic Globalization l 8

Interaction between Police, Prosecutors, and the Courts Research Paper

Interaction between Police, Prosecutors, and the Courts - Research Paper Example The smooth and well orchestrated interaction between police, prosecutors, and the courts is necessary to keep the peace and economic viability of the community. The police officers keep the criminals and persons under trial in jail while they are processed for trial. When convicted by the courts of law, the police officers will jail the convicted person in jail the serve the jail sentence handed down by the courts of law. The prosecutors present evidences to the courts to prove the guilt of the persons charged. The courts determine whether the person charged is guilty or innocent of the crime charged. The police officers must ensure that they will implement a high quality investigation to feret out the criminals from the innocent persons as the officers roam the streets of the United States community. The police officers should take extra care of the evidences gathered in order to ensure that the court’s verdict will be correct. The police officers’ presentation of fals ified evidences may result to the court’s erroneous verdict. The erroneous verdict may be to convict an innocent person because of circumstantial evidence. Another erroneous verdict is to declare innocence a person of a crime due to some legal technicalities. One such legal technically is the police officer’s gathering of evidences by using force on a person, against the person’s will. ... The prosecutor must ensure that the court will receive case evidences as a basis for issuing a guilty verdict as well as issue court ruling using legal doctrines. For example, the prosecutor must use the proper section or law references to back up one’s thesis. The court is challenged to prioritize cases. For example, the court must prioritize cases where the person accused is being held under lock and key by the police officers. The court must ensure that the police officers and the prosecutors do not violate the basic rights of the accused persons during their incarceration. For example, Samuel Walker (1993) emphasized â€Å"The videotaped beating of Rodney King by Los Angeles police officers on March 3, 1991--an event that electrified the country—dramatized the problem of police discretion. The officers involved acted out their worst impulses, obviously believing they would never be caught or punished. The fact that a sergeant was present and that the officers later discussed the incident over the police radio is the most damning evidence of their sense of immunity†. The above Rodney King case shows an extreme of the American justice system. The police officers took the law into their own hands. They manhandled the victim, Rodney King of Los Angeles, California. Consequently, the prosecutors must put into motion its duty to gather enough evidences to prosecute the abusive Los Angeles police officers. The police officers must do their best to reduce the crime rate in the community. In their frustration over the unabated crime incidents, some police officers may be triggered to act irrationally. The police officers must uphold the rights of the accused. One of the

Reading Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Reading - Assignment Example In the winter of 1906-1907, Pablo designed the first elements of Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. The author appreciates that the twentieth century artist developed his concepts in an intensive manner. The design took place through a program planned consciously similar to the works of Gericault and Leonardo. Picasso painted his product on an eight feet canvas in the summer of 1907. Les Demoiselles d’Avignon provided the rift as well as the divide between ninetieth century art and future designs (modern) designs in painting (Chave 600). It remains the hallmark of art over the one hundred years. Chiva holds that time and events at the time allowed Picasso to do what he did. Nothing was strange because other events were happening in other areas as well. In 1909, Schoenberg composed the Erwatung and The Right of Spring by Stravinsky came to the limelight in 1910. In 1914, when Picasso was doing the later stages of cubism, Ulysses started. Caught up in blue and silver long curtains are five pink women in the painting. Two of the women are in an upright posture raising their arms with the purpose of flaunting their breasts. With protruding black eyes, the women always stare at the viewer. The designer decided to mask the other three women out of the five. Two of the three are dressed in African masks. Of the two, one intrudes from behind one of the cloth that remains jagged and the bother appears squatting in fabrics made of diamond. The author identifies that height carries a few more centimetres than the width in reality. This fact disposes any analyst to be part of symmetry and space. Work done by Picasso on Les Demoiselles d’Avignon was great and immense any way. The late ninetieth century and early twentieth century witnessed the development of provocative works in the industry with the same theme as that designed by Picasso. Identified in this category are novel by Zola, Pallas Athene by Klimt, and Madonna by

How technology can affect the movie buessines in the future Essay - 1

How technology can affect the movie buessines in the future - Essay Example The movie industry has always supported and promoted new technological advancements even back in 1920’s when sound was first incorporated in a movie. (1) Digital revolution will be the landmark development made in the history of home entertainment. One of the best technological improvements made in the movie business is digital technology. The biggest transition in the movie industry is the evolution of digital technology. Digital technology is considered to be the revolution in every field of the film industry. One of the most important advantages of digital revolution is allowing people to download movies at any time through the internet broadband. Digital cinema provides clarity, high quality experience and greater flexibility in programming the details. Digital film making required the theaters to also adopt digital technology which would enhance the quality of film, provide the best visuals while being cost effective. (2) Audio programming, post production and exhibition continue to be digital and there is rapid progression towards digital technology in the movie industry. Visual effects, editing are also predominantly handled by digital technology. One can expect the actual film making process to become completely digitalized in the coming years .Moviemakers would be able to create movies and sell and distribute them on the internet. (2) Many movie directors and producers fear that the new technology can be a threat as people will easily download movies even before they are released rather than going to theaters.The movie and audio industry has already been negatively affected in the last few years. Since more people are listening to MP3’s and other digital formats, the use of CD’s are seldom and cassettes no longer used. The impact is more for the audio industry as music is downloaded free from many websites. With the introduction of Blu Ray technology, people can download movies and can watch them in excellent sound