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The Asian Economic Crisis, 2005.
Examines and analyzes the Asian economic and currency crisis that rocked the Asian markets in 1997.
2,468 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 110.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the causes of the Asian economic crisis in 1997 and traces the roots of the crisis back to the area?s economic growth that started in the early 1990s. The paper explains that, while the crisis is believed to have begun in Thailand, conditions that existed throughout the region contributed to the destabilization of the economies of the other Southeast Asian countries as well.
From the Paper
"Throughout the early 1990s, growth in southeast Asia attracted much foreign capital. However, by 1995 and 1996, Thailand?s current account deficit had grown (from 5.7% in ?93 to 8.5% in ?96 [Pesenti et al., 1998]). When domestic production slowed, this account imbalance represented an even greater percentage, when compared to GDP. Much of the instability in Thailand?s economy was brought about by heavy short-term borrowing that required stringent debt maintenance. A boom in real estate and the Thai stock market attracted foreign speculation that could not be sustained in the face of investor doubts. The Thai government attempted to shore up shaky investor confidence by officially backing the financial institutions that were heavily indebted abroad."
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Conspicuous Consumption of Generation Y in Taiwan, 2004.
This paper is a complete research project to evaluate the relationship between luxury purchases as conspicuous consumption and Generation Y in Taiwan, using designer brands as the example.
8,890 words (approx. 35.6 pages), 29 sources, AU$ 271.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that conspicuous consumption is often thought of as unnecessary spending or the purchasing of products that are not necessities. Increases in upward mobility have increased conspicuous consumption patterns in nations around the world. The author points out that the impact of a rapidly growing economy and of increased education in Taiwan have had an impact on the conspicuous consumption of Generation Y. These individuals are college-educated with significant incomes and have money to spend. The paper concludes that there is a thin line between luxury and necessity; one generation's luxury becomes their successors' necessity. Luxury is often associated with a quality buy.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Literature Review
Luxury vs. Necessity
Modern Consumer Society of Luxury
Meanings of Conspicuous Consumption
Characteristics of Conspicuous Consumers
Comparison of Generation Y, Generation X, and Baby Boomers
Characteristics of Generation Y'ers in Taiwan
Methodology, Research Design and Data Collection
Preliminary Survey Design
Questionnaire
Part I: General Questions
Part II: Attitude toward Luxury Goods and Mass Commodity Goods
Part III: Customers? Brand Loyalty, Reaction to Different Product Categories, and Price Sensitivity
Part IV: Background Information
Depth Interview
Research Finding and Analysis
Part I: General Questions
Part II:
Part III: (Open Questions)
Analysis
Discussion: Limitation, Application, and Conclusion
From the Paper
"The survey also found that some of the respondents had regrets about making expensive purchases. The phenomenon of regret was most evident in younger respondents who often regretted such purchases because they were too expensive, or the styles were outdated. The survey found that older respondents that were more financially stable rarely had regrets about the purchases they made. To combat the regret that younger consumers have companies should create a line of products that are less expensive but still have the high quality of other clothing by the designer. The less expensive line will allow younger consumers to purchase products without regret."
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Japan and America, 2005.
A comparison of similarities between Japan and America.
1,025 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the culture, geography, economics, and demography of Japan with America. It also looks at political differences and attitudes towards the environment.
From the Paper
"Finally, environmentally both countries face significant challenges because both countries rely on manufacturing for a significant portion of their economy. Japan, for instance, is dealing with acid rain and the resulting changes in the pH of bodies of water (CIA, 2004a). In addition, Japan uses large amounts of timber, and the traditional diet emphasizes consumption of seafood. As a result, both forestry and fishing industries face depletion of resources not only in Japan but for the other countries, mostly Asian, supplying those materials (CIA, 2004a). Japan also grapples with air pollution."
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The Strategic Hamlet Program, 2004.
A study of the "Strategic Hamlet Program", cataloging the overall failure of the program to bring about pacification in South Vietnam from 1961 to 1963.
3,260 words (approx. 13.0 pages), 17 sources, MLA, AU$ 136.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the Vietnam War, focusing on how the hamlets were constructed and the effect the implementation and construction had on the overall "Strategic Hamlet Program". The paper presents a clear connection between the implementation and construction efforts of the Strategic Hamlet Program and the significance of the Vietnam War.
Table of Contents
Introduction
History of Program
Construction of Program
Positive and Negative Program Aspects
Significance of Program
From the Paper
"In the years leading to the construction and implementation of the hamlets several things were attempted in their place. From 1953 to 1959 the French and the GVN made early attempts to resettle populations to create secure zones. What this meant was that village people were supposed to belong to secure zones by which they would be protected from the fallout of military action."
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Trade Patterns: Japan and United States, 2004.
An examination of foreign trade between Japan and the U.S. and what it entails.
1,164 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 2 sources, APA, AU$ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces and discusses the topic of trade between the United States and Japan. Specifically, it discusses the export and import of goods, exports and imports of services, tourism, and investments. Japan and the United States are two of the premier forces in trade around the world, and both countries depend heavily on each other in a variety of trade areas from electronics to tourism and banking. The paper examines how, together, they form a formidable bond of trade that dominates the world market and economy.
From the Paper
"Financial services are also a burgeoning part of the Japanese economy. Japan boasts some of the world's largest banks, and they fund a variety of projects and services around the globe. They are also branching out into other areas, such as investment in film and television (i.e. Sony Pictures in the U.S.), and in outsourcing, especially in the financial and information technology service sectors."
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Sex Workers in Thailand, 2004.
A short history of prostitution in Thailand and the historical and current causes behind the widespread prostitution in the country.
3,708 words (approx. 14.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 149.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how prostitution in Thailand is practiced on such a large scale that it has become almost a way of life. The history of prostitution in the country goes back a long way, but it was internationalized during the Vietnam War when large numbers of American soldiers made Thailand their ?R&R? base. Since then, an increasing number of sex tourists have patronized the sex trade in Bangkok and certain other cities. The sex workers in Thailand comprise both ?free? and ?forced? prostitutes, both of whom are exposed to a number of risks, such as exposure to dangerous diseases, exploitation, and violence. The profession does, however, provide a living for a large number of poor women, and the sex industry in Thailand is big business for many, including the thriving tourist industry.
Outline
History of Prostitution in Thailand
Causes of Prostitution in Thailand
Profile of the Sex Worker in Thailand
Health Issues
Effect of Prostitution on Other Thai Women
Helping Sex Workers
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The single biggest cause of prostitution in Thailand is without doubt poverty. Poverty is, as Mr. Shahabudin notes, ?a vicious force that drives families to sacrifice their daughters to prostitution.? Most surveys of ?massage girls? in Bangkok show that over 70% of the girls come from poor farming families and almost all of them send part of their earnings home to feed their families. Many of them come from refugee families who have lost their land on which they farmed previously; now these families have little choice but to send their children out for work in order to survive. The incentive for making income through prostitution in Thailand is overwhelming for poor peasant girls: Catherine Hill (1993) quoting Pasuk Phongpaichit, author of From Peasant Girls to Bangkok Masseuses ( 1982, 8) writes that prostitution in Thailand offers ?wages up to twenty-five times the wages to women in other industries.?"
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Differences in Motivational Beliefs, 2005.
Review of Martin Eaton's and Myron Dembo's article, "Differences in the Motivational Beliefs of Asian-American and Non-Asian Students".
808 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and analyzes Eaton's and Dembo's article about the motivational beliefs of Asian-Americans and how these beliefs are very likely one of the reasons Asian-American students outperform non-Asian students academically. The paper explains the implications of Eaton's and Dembo's research and how it could be used for examining the nature of motivational factors in other communities as well.
From the Paper
"Eaton and Dembo discuss their problem clearly, outlining their reasons for performing the research and placing it within the context of prior research. The fact that Asian-Americans usually outperform their non-Asian counterparts on academic tests warrants attention, for educators, psychologists, and sociologists can examine the factors that most predict high achievement among students. Moreover, such a study draws attention to the differences between different cultural communities, which can also help professionals understand and treat students with greater cultural awareness. Further research on other ethnic groups can also contribute much awareness and understanding, which can improve all students? chances for success. Educators, psychologists, and sociologists can glean much information from studies like this one."
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Maxine Hong Kingston's "Woman Warrior", 2005.
Review and analysis of Maxine Hong Kingston's novel, "The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts".
1,495 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper summarizes Kingston's novel about the relationship between past and present, mother and daughter. The paper explains how the novel is a book about self-discovery and that, through the juxtaposition of the social and political circumstances of the mother and daughter, as well as their personal experiences, the stories in Kingston's book lead the narrator in the novel to evolve into a confident woman with a better understanding of who she is.
From the Paper
"The complexities involved with mother daughter relationships are seen in Maxine Hong Kingston?s The Woman Warrior: Memoirs of a Girlhood Among Ghosts. In this combination of fact and fiction Kingston engages us by demonstrating the difficulties a Chinese-American girl encounters as she tries to relate to her Chinese born mother. Through a series of tales, the narrator discovers a her mother?s character, which is inextricably connected to her past. The sharp contrast between mother and daughter exemplifies the socioeconomic and sociopolitical roles and constructs of its historical era. It is through the experience of her mother and those who came before her, that the narrator is able to embrace her present and future fully."
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French Colonialism in Film, 2004.
Compares the films, "Battle of Algiers" (1965), and "Indochine" (1992).
1,775 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 2 sources, APA, AU$ 84.95
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Abstract
Director Gillo Pontecorvo's "The Battle of Algiers" and director Regis Wargnier's "Indochine" showcase French colonialism. The paper describes how, in "Indochine", the political aspects of colonialism form a backdrop to a love story set amid gorgeous scenery, while "The Battle of Algiers" is an uncompromising look at the bloody cost of French rule in Algeria. The paper shows that, while both films are set in different times and locations, "The Battle of Algiers" and "Indochine" clearly depict the cost of colonialism.
From the Paper
"Gillo Pontecorvo's movie, The Battle of Algiers, was first release in 1965, and chronicles the French occupation of Algiers during the 1950s. The movie shows the struggles of the Algerian independence movement to win independence from France. Filmed in black and white, The Battle of Algiers is filmed in the style of a documentary, but it is in fact not. The movie begins in 1957, as the last remaining Algerian Guerrilla leader, Ali La Pointe (Brahim Haggiag), is pinned down in his hideout by the French military. As he contemplates his fate, La Pointe recollects much of the history of the Algerian independence movement, where Muslims struggled for independence from France. Ultimately, La Pointe chooses to die rather than to surrender, and the French are apparently victorious, at least for the time being."
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Trade Patterns of the U.S. and China, 2004.
A comparative report on the international trade strengths of China and the United States.
2,870 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 125.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the foreign trade patterns of the United States and compares them with those of China. The paper discusses international trade relations in general. The issue of trade barriers is presented in the paper. The paper assesses the various strengths attributed to both American and Chinese international trade.
From the Paper
"Some believe that the United States is the most powerful nation in the world, and this is largely accurate, but it also depends on how power is considered. However, when it comes to trade, and export and import issues, the United States is relatively weak in the fact that it imports so much from other countries. Generally, this is not a problem provided that all countries get along with each other well. It could become a problem, however, if other countries were to stop their trade with the United States. Many of the countries that make specific products use them in those countries and also send them to the United States (Mansfield, & Bronson, 1997). Even though the United States is an important avenue for export, there are many other countries that also use these various goods and services (Mansfield, & Bronson, 1997)."
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Japan, 2004.
A general overview of some of the social, religious, cultural, and political aspects of Japan.
1,771 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 84.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the unique political geography of Japan has largely been responsible for determining the country?s unique language, culture, and political system. The country?s major geographical features, such as it being an island with little land mass available to support a large population, have shaped most of Japan?s history and the characteristics of its people. It looks at how Japan?s religions and language have influenced its culture and way of life to a large extent and how, although the Japanese and American cultures have little in common and have had a love-hate relationship for a long time, the two countries and peoples have not remained totally immune from each other?s influence.
Outline
Japanese Language and How It Defines Japanese Culture
Religions
Political Systems and Their Connection with Religions and Languages
Religions and Cultures of Japan and the United States
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Buddhism the other major religion of Japan originated in India, where its founder Gautama Buddha was born. It arrived in Japan in the 6th century by way of China and Korea. In the centuries that followed, numerous Buddhist sects took root in Japan, the most prominent among them being Zen Buddhism. Zen Buddhism was introduced from China in the 12th century and quickly became popular among the dominant warrior class under the rule of Japan?s first shogunate (military government). Zen Buddhism fuses the Mahayana form of Buddhism that originated in India and the Chinese philosophy of Daoism. Zen Buddhism has had a significant effect on Japanese culture mainly through the artistic activities in Zen monasteries that serve as part-training school."
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Xu Zhimo, 2005.
A look at how Chinese poet and scholar, Xu Zhimo, developed a style that challenged the traditional poetic styles of China as well as China's ideas of freedom, morality, and love.
2,469 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 110.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes selected poems by Xu Zhimo in order to demonstrate the innovative ways that Xu Zhimo dealt with anxieties and solitudes, hesitations and doubts, nostalgia and expectancy, exile and dreams, all of which are constant themes in Romantic minds and works.
From the Paper
"Xu Zhimo demonstrates a strong sense of self determination, especially with regards to love and free political will. His works span only a very short lifetime, despite Xu Zhimo?s well educated and well traveled life of profundity his life ended tragically at age thirty six, the victim of a plane crash. Xu Zhimo bears his soul through his short life in a literary career bound in modernity. He travels the road from romantic idealism to near the end of his life pessimism and heartbreak. It is not known how Xu Zhimo?s outlook or literary endeavors might have changed, had he lived longer but his story is often seen as one of unrequited love, repeatedly trapped by the propriety of his age."
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The Japanese Economy, 2004.
Examines predictions for the future of the Japanese economy.
1,250 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 62.95
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Abstract
Although the Japanese economy has been struggling for over a decade now, the fact remains that it is still the world?s second largest economy, which probably accounts for the worldwide concern over its fortunes.This paper shows that Japan continues to cause concern, even though its economy is currently showing signs of recovery with a first quarter 2004 GDP annual growth rate of 5.6 percent, more than the 3.8 percent that economists had predicted. The current recovery is largely spurred by an increase in exports, business investment, and consumer spending. The paper notes that, despite such encouraging trends, however, it is still widely believed that the Japanese economy may not be able to show sustained recovery, as its problems are not cyclical but structural and that many of these structural problems have yet to be resolved.
From the Paper
"However, the Japanese economic formula for success proved to be fallible with the rapidly changing global political and economic environment post 1985. For one, the Japanese system of state-assisted capitalism worked in an era where Japan had few economic competitors in Europe and Asia, and till such time that the United States turned a benign eye on Japanese policies that discouraged imports (Ellington, 1999). In fact, Japan?s macroeconomic instability can be traced back to the September 1985 Plaza Accord, when the United States and Japan reached an agreement aimed at reducing the value of the dollar-yen exchange rate (Matsuura et.al, 2003), and the United States began applying pressure on Japan to open up its economy to imports and investment (Ellington, 1999)."
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Japan, 2004.
The economic status of Japan.
2,305 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 104.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, for the past ten or twelve years, Japan has been a miracle of contradictory economic factors, experiencing little inflation, little economic growth, a deterioration in trade, more government spending than previously, and unreliable savings and investment, both by business and individuals. The author points out that, in the year 2000, for the first time, Japan?s unemployment rate had exceeded that of the United States; but this may be because of a difference in the definition of the official unemployment rate. The paper relates that investment in Japan was, arguably, partly the cause of the real GDP growth in Japan of 5 percent per year form 1985 to 1990, versus 3 percent the first half of the decade; however, by early 1991, Japanese consumption and business investment had slowed, and residential investment declined.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Inflation
Unemployment
GDP
Consumption
Government Spending
Trade Deficit
From the Paper
"In 1998, Japan was trying to avert a deflationary spiral and some economists wanted to create a mini-bubble of inflation to jumpstart a sluggish economy. That would have been done by increasing liquidity. They argued that the Bank of Japan (BOJ) needed to aggressively increase liquidity by printing money or by purchasing securities from the money market. In turn, this would push down interest rates, trigger demand for corporate capital investment, and encourage consumers to buy. Part of the reasoning behind this was that Japan was in a liquidity trap and money was not circulating, as it should; under those conditions, even extremely low interest rates did not encourage companies to borrow for investment because the return on their investments would be so low as well. In fact, the opposite behavior was keeping inflation low. Companies were holding large amounts of capital as a hedge against their expectation that the economy would worsen. That concept was also affecting consumers, of course. But consumers were also worried about a thinly stretched pension system and job security, or lack thereof."
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Confucianism and Daoism, 2004.
This paper compares Confucianism and Daoism, both of which come from the Chinese religious traditions.
1,680 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 79.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, while Confucianism and Daoism are considered by some to be very different, the teachings of one are relatively consistent with the teachings of the other; both of them indicate a reverence for Chinese ancestors and a striving for harmony with nature, although they often look at achieving this in slightly different ways. The author points out that Daoism, which is based on the teaching of Laozi is a way in which people can achieve personal enlightenment; whereas, Confucianism, which is based on the teachings of Kongzi, deals more specifically with education and ethics. The paper relates that the religions are not widely observed by people in countries where these teachings did not originate; however, individuals, even in the Western world, continue to be interested in them because of their simplicity, peacefulness, being one with nature, and completing accomplishments with the least amount of effort.
From the Paper
"Legend has it that Kongzi visited with Laozi and found his superior intellect to be very impressive. Laozi disappeared in his old age but he left behind the "Book of The Way of Virtue". It is believed that both creators of these religious traditions serve and assist the people of China and the planet as Archangels of the Universal Lightrays. Those who believe in Dao have focused themselves on nature and what type of insights can be taken from it. Those who follow Confucianism look at a rational and intellectual approach to issues and believe in strong education. It is believed that the reason that these two traditions have been able to coexist together for such a long time is because of the 'I Ching'. This has to do with the union and the cosmology of these traditions, which is believed to be included in both teachings and has a strong metaphysical aspect."
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?Wa?, 2004.
An investigation into the concept of 'wa' in the Japanese business culture.
1,032 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how "Wa? means any of the following: harmony, peace, tranquility, and balance. In this paper, ?wa? is studied in the context of the business environment, applying this in discussing the basic principles present in the Total Quality Management (TQM) principles, conceived by W. Edwards Deming.
From the Paper
"Japanese business culture is evidently an example of a society that subsists to the principles of TQM. Looking into the cultures of businesses in Japan, cooperation and harmonious relationship is preferred over competition and individualism, respectively. Sen Nishyama?s article on the ?wa? culture of Japan shows that ?[a] strong sense of group cohesiveness? exists, where ?each worker feel responsible for the quality of the final product coming off the line.? In this passage, the customer-driven principle is adhered to; furthermore, employee compensations are given in order to motivate and encourage employees to perform their best and continue cooperating with the other members of the organization."
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