Analysis on “Behind the Veil” Essay

In the short story â€Å"From Behind the Veil,† written by Dhu’l Nun Ayyoub, the author changes how we feel about the main character throughout the sequencing of the plot. We as the readers learn more about how the protagonist really thinks coupled with what her motives are. The author also presents language that clearly expresses how the protagonist feels and uses examples to show an overall theme in the story. In the exposition we meet our protagonist who is a young women of Islam who wears the traditional veil that muslim women are advised to wear under the law of the Quran were it says, â€Å"And tell the believing women to reduce some of their vision and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which necessarily appears thereof and to wrap a portion of their head covers over their chests and not expose their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands’ fathers, their sons, their husbands’ sons, their brothers, their brothers’ sons, their sisters’ sons, their women, that which their right hands possess, or those male attendants having no physical desire, or children who are not yet aware of the private aspects of women.(Quran).† Some women are not wearing veils. As readers, we come to the conclusion that the protagonist is a faithful woman of Islam. The veil is a symbol of power to women who wear it because they have the gift of modesty and can show their dedication to Allah. What is interesting is that even though the veil is supposed to cover the body and keep men from giving attention to a woman’s body, men are drawn to the women in veils because they are â€Å"enticing† and have an â€Å"alluring shape, and make the observer yearn to uncover the secrets which lie beneath them (Ayyoub 98).† During the rising action, we continue to have the view about the protagonist that she is a â€Å"good girl† and respectable until she reveals herself to a man she finds enticing and who seems to fancy her. This contradicts what we previously thought about her. We also learn that she wants to have control of their relationship. She won’t allow the man to know her name or have any information that he could use to contact her at any time. This is an interesting exception to the stereotypical and usual relationship between a Muslim man and woman. Usually the man would have the majority of power in the relationship, but the protagonist has made the relationship on her terms  only. We also learn from the narrator that the protagonist has a strong disposition. We can conclude that she seems to exude some power . We also learn that her father thinks highly of her and feels that she is â€Å"intelligent†, â€Å"well brought up†, and â€Å"obviously knows the value of traditions and respects them.† In the climax, we start to have a very different view of our protagonist. We learn that she might not be as genuine as we think she is. The climax is after her father reads the newspaper article a man submitted about a woman who revealed herself to him. She goes to her room and ‘talks’ to her veil stating that she despises the veil, how she uses it only to keep men away from her, she doesn’t care about her veil at all, she feels nothing for it, she defies it, and how she feels that other women say they wear the veil to preserve their virginity, honor, and good morals, but if they were honest about why they wore the veil it would be for no reason but to cover their flaws and scandals. This is extremely surprising to the reader because from what we thought of her before she was a girl who wore the veil as a symbol of good morals when now we learn it isjust a persona that she exudes. This point of view she has toward the veil is very different from what we expect it to be and what most Islamic people’s point of view would be. We as readers now think of her as taking advantage of the veiling tradition for her own purposes instead of for religious ones. It seems as if though she wants everyone to think she wears the veil because she is faithful to Allah, when in all reality it is all staged. The only positive thought she has of her veil is that it creates a sense of anonymity and mystery even though she feels trapped underneath it. The language the author uses to express how the protagonist really feels about the veil give you a sense of the true despise the protagonist has toward it. The author uses words such as â€Å"defy† which mean to challenge the power of, or resist boldly, showing that the protagonist is having an internal conflict with her religion. She also uses the word â€Å"despise† which means disgust. Readers really get the sense now that the protagonist has put on an act to seem like this respectable and honorable Muslim woman when really none of it matters to her. The Theme of the story is that sometimes  we can feel trapped between what we feel and think and what we know is the status-quo or the excepted way of thinking and feeling. This is shown in the example of the protagonist with her father. She acts like she agrees with his thought of the veil because she knows that is what is expected and excepted when really her feelings are that the veil denies her freedom.

Gang Essay

Alexander Williams Society today can be Very Pressuring Especially Adolescent teen who want respect Usually out of fear. Young people tend to recognize at an emotional level that they are truly Incapable of dealing with the world and feel as though they would be empowered if they Belong to something larger. Sometimes their â€Å"friends† invite them to become a member of a Gang and there can be some intimidation, which plays right into their emotional feeling of Weakness. Once they grow up a little, emotionally that is, many of the former gang members Recognize that it's not a good idea and they try to leave.At that point, some gangs have a â€Å"no exit† policy and life gets difficult. It really is unfortunate that so many of them believe in the rhetoric of the gang members. It's partially a result of the warehousing practices of the public school system that end up not teaching anything of value leaving these kids to learn nonsense from other kids. While it's true tha t a value oriented education system will not be able to save them all, it would certainly be able to do better than what we have now.Once a person joins a gang, their complete loyalty is demanded by the gang even over their family. Everything the gang tells them to do, they have to do, even stealing from their family. Gangs rule by fear ; intimidation. They accomplish this by committing crimes within their turf, or boundary, as set by various gangs. Many times the worst crimes are committed by younger members of the gang, ; for 2 reasons. First, they want to show the gang their loyalty ; second, they get in less trouble with the law if they get caught.The main effects are the amount ; degree of crime committed by members that over burden law enforcement, jails, ; courts. Another is the breakdown of the community because of the fear. ; intimidation. Gang areas usually result in attempted murder, torture, mayhem, etc. case where a person was hogtied, shot, stabbed. We need to get the cities on our side first. Organize families, neighborhoods and areas, once you get community cooperation it will be easier to reach the children. All children have some respect for their families or an authority figure at some point in their life.If we can motivate small neighborhoods to take care of their children as a community we can reach some before it is too late. Even for teenagers who are thought of as it being too late to reach, there is always time. It just takes time to build a trusting relationship with each other. It helps if the authority figure is someone from a similar background, but it is not necessary. Don't blame one ethnic group for all the violence and degradation of society, it is just as much a white problem as it is any other color problem. Our society seems to perpetuate the myth of the poor violent minority

Blitzkrieg Essay Research Paper The foundation of

Blitzkrieg Essay, Research PaperThe foundation of Mobile warfare has its roots in Ancient and Medieval World. The German Army tardily in World War I ab initio developed basic tactics that finally evolved into modern nomadic warfare. Germans developed those tactics in an effort to get the better of the inactive trench warfare on the Western Front. Elite # 8220 ; Sturmtruppen # 8221 ; infantry units were created to assail enemy places utilizing the impulse of velocity and surpass but finally failed because of the deficiency of mobility and support needed in order to go on progressing farther into enemy controlled district. During 1920s, British military philosophers Captain Sir Basil Liddell Hart, General J.F.C. Fuller and General Martell farther developed tactics of nomadic warfare. They all postulated that armored combat vehicles could non merely prehend land by beastly strength, but could besides be the cardinal factor in a new scheme of warfare. If moved quickly plenty, of armore d combat vehicles could nail through enemy lines and into the enemy # 8217 ; s rear, destructing supplies and heavy weapon places and diminishing the enemy # 8217 ; s will to defy. All of them found armored combat vehicle to be an ultimate arm able to perforate deep into enemy district while followed by foot and supported by heavy weapon and airfare. In late 1920s and early 1930s, Charles De Gaulle, Hans von Seekt, Heinz Guderian and many others became interested in the construct of nomadic warfare and tried to implement it in an organisational construction of their ground forcess. Heinz Guderian organized Panzers into self-contained Panzer Divisions working with the close support of foot, motorized foot, heavy weapon and airfare. From 1933 to 1939, Germany was on a pursuit to to the full mechanise their ground forces for an approaching struggle.German High Command used Spanish Civil War ( 1936-38 ) as a testing land for Blitzkrieg tactics, which proved to be a formidable combinat ion of land and air action. In September of 1939, Germany invaded Poland utilizing mechanized land force ( Wehrmacht ) working with the close support of the airfare ( Luftwaffe ) to breakthrough and perforate deep behind Polish lines of defence # 8211 ; Polish Campaign. In May of 1940, during the invasion of the Low Countries and France, the Germans one time once more used same tactics ( including the usage of Fallschirmjaeger # 8211 ; paratroops ) to floor and disorganise the guardians. From October of 1940 to March of 1941, Germans conquered Balkans utilizing the same proved tactics. When in June of 1941, Germany invaded Russia ; tactics of Blitzkrieg allowed them to make the outskirts of Moscow in December of 1941. Erwin Rommel in North Africa ( 1941-1943 ) besides implemented tactics of Blitzkrieg with great success. Since late 1942, outnumbered German Army was contending a defensive war on two foreparts and was unable to establish any major offenses with excepti on of Kursk ( June of 1943 ) and Ardennes ( December of 1944 ) offense. Overall, tactics of Blitzkrieg were the chief subscriber of early German triumphs ( 1939-1942 ) , when German supply base and logistics were able to keep the velocity of the progressing units. This was non the instance on the Eastern Front and in the North Africa, when limited German supply base and logistics were unable to get by with transit and conditions conditions diminishing effectivity of German onslaughts and armed forces in general. At the same clip, potency of Blitzkrieg was to the full appreciated by the Allies, who implemented its tactics on all foreparts. US Army General George Patton used Blitzkrieg tactics in his European operations of 1944. After World War II, tactics of Blitzkrieg were used by Israeli forces during their legion struggles with the Arab Nations every bit good as by American forces during the Operation Desert Storm.Overall, tactics of Blitzkrieg are based on co-ordinated, concentrated and precise air and land onslaughts to supply a rapid and powerful clout through the enemy lines in order to finally encircle the enemy. Important factor behind nomadic warfare was communicating between the HQ and field units and vice-versa, every bit good as prepared get downing points along with supply base and logistics to keep the velocity of the initial onslaught. Although, it is frequently forgotten that surpass was besides really of import to the success of Blitzkrieg and that is why Germany neer declar ed war on any state that it attacked. The radical tactics of Blitzkrieg formed a base for future development of arms and warfare.Concepts of Blitzkrieg1. Airfare attacks enemy front-line and rear places, chief roads, landing fields and communicating centres. At the same clip foot onslaughts on the full front-line ( or at least at chief topographic points ) and engages enemy. This restrains the enemy from cognizing where the chief force will assail.2. Concentrated armored combat vehicle unit # 8217 ; s breakthrough chief lines of defence and progress deeper into enemy district, while following mechanised unit # 8217 ; s chase and engage guardians forestalling them from set uping defensive places. Infantry continues to prosecute enemy to mislead and maintain enemy forces from retreating and set uping effectual defence.3. Infantry and other support units attack enemy wings in order to associate up with other groups to finish the onslaught and finally encircle the enemy.4. Mechanized groups spearhead deeper into the enemy district go arounding the enemy places and paralysing the rear forestalling retreating military personnels and guardians from set uping effectual defensive places.5. Main force links up with other units encircling and cutting off the enemy.

Observation #6 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Observation #6 - Essay Example I get the idea that women can only excel in the field of fashion and beauty; while, accomplishments and rewards are only for men, which should not be the case in real. This is gender biasing, which the media is portraying very beautifully. The Financial Times is a business magazine, and has some very current and hot news related to the business market. Women are considered as equally proficient gender as men, since the magazine highlights news regarding both men and women equally. April 5, 2013 publication talks about a female consultant chemist, Rachel Edwards-Stuart, and highlights her accomplishment in the lab. Both men and women are shown to be having the same level of intellect, engaging in professional meetings and conferences. The magazine does not portray gender biasing, and I get the idea that both the genders are equally professional in their fields; otherwise, there are many other magazines that emphasize the intellect and wits of men

Corporate Finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Corporate Finance - Essay Example These are part of the benefits of registering a business as a limited liability entity. In addition to the company being an individual entity from the owners, a limited liability company offers the owners of equity capital to practice risk aversion skills. Owners of equity are not the managers of their organizations. Instead, they delegate this function to other people who they believe are capable of perfectly handling these duties. This way, the owners of equity reduce the likely of a risk of loss happening. Some investors start a business in an industry which they have little knowledge of. However, by making use of experts in that industry, they significantly reduce their risk of loss. Hired managers undertake their duties with a lot of caution, avoiding causing losses to the organization. Separation of ownership and control is a virtual necessity for the successful financing of large corporations since it leads to high performance which subsequently attracts more investors and inc reases confidence among creditors. If an organization is managed by separate persons other than the owners, due care and diligence is accorded to the organization by the management. They exhibit high levels of accountability in delivering of their duties and services towards the organization. With the knowledge that they are held accountable for any in eventualities that may arise from misrepresentation, they show care in their activities. This leads to high performance standards, which attracts more investors and shareholders in to the organization. 2. The tendency of debt ratios varies tremendously across the individual firms. However, debt ratios tend to stabilize within individual firms over a long period of time supports the pecking order model. Pecking order states that as the cost of financing increases, so does asymmetric information. Every organization gets its financing from three sources, which include internal funds, debt and equity financing. Companies therefore have to prioritize their sources of financing. Initially, organizations put into consideration their internal sources of funds. If internal funds cannot adequately meet the organization’s obligations the management considers the use of debt (Baker & Martin, 2011). However, in case this too does not help, the company might consider raising equity as measure of ‘last resort.’ Therefore, internal financing is used first, when it fails the company considers the debt, and when this does not work out, the company raises equity. This theory holds that business will conform to a hierarchy of financing resources and prefer the use of internal financing when it is available. Debt on the other hand is preferred over raising equity in case of debt financing. The extent which a company goes to in financing its operations and the type of fund chosen, the management is sure that the company will in future be in a position to repay. Mostly, internal financing is inadequate. In deciding the most appropriate form of funding between equity and debt, the organization opts for debt financing. There are two types of debt financing available, that is the short term and the long term financing. It is due to the use of debt financing that debt ratios tremendously vary across firms but tend to be stable within individual firms over long periods of time as companies repay their debts. 3. To improve a company’s profitability or popularity, many companies are either involved in hostile takeovers, mergers or

Modern Art Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Modern Art - Assignment Example The paper "Modern Art" explores the phenomenon of modern art. Looking at a particular period of art can bring about the innovativeness of artists in depicting ideas using paint and brush and various other unique techniques, which is a characteristic of the modern era. Learning all these perspectives among fellow students and engaging in discourses that analyze the works of art during this period will expose me to varied ideas and perceptions, which may contribute greatly to my esthetic education. Furthermore, I will be privileged to discover the different perceptions of fellow students and sharpen my skills to analyze future works of art and look at art from a multidimensional perspective. A continuous and developmental exposure to works of art will accelerate my capacity to look at works of art, not just from the surface but boldly venture into the deep maze and discover the exact message intended by different artists I will be exposed to. I expect not just to learn about artists, t heir art and the different eras in art but also to be able to apply knowledge based critiquing with the objective of improving my overall knowledge and mastery of art. Just as I had anticipated the experience with Modern art from the period between 1850 and 1955 exposed to magnificent works of art and the awe inspiring genius of artists through this period. The extent with which these artists rebelled against conventional approaches to art and delved deep into their creative psyches to pioneer new forms of art.

Compare Zara and Primarks operations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Compare Zara and Primarks operations - Essay Example The company is a subsidiary company of the Associated British foods Company. Primark is in the business of selling readymade garments including women’s wear, children wear and menswear of stylish fashion and high variety at accessible and affordable prices. The company mainly operates in the market of the United Kingdom with its stores in different European countries like London, Portugal, Spain, Belgium, German, and Holland etc. The company has more than 150 stores located in different parts of the United Kingdom. The main competitors of Primark are Next, River Island, Guess, Gap, and Zara. The competition between these companies is based on achieving competitive advantage through the use of different business models and unique operational strategies. The report encompasses a study of the business models followed by Zara and Primark with an identification of the key similarities and differences in the two business models and a study of the key business objectives of these two companies and their impact on the competitive advantage creation for both the companies.  The report also includes a tradeoff analysis of the two companies on the basis of key operation factors like cost, quality etc. The report is suitably concluded with the recommendations given to the companies for achieving sustainable competitive advantage. The owner of Inditex, Amancio Ortega Gaona has been renowned for adapting innovative business models in all his fashion brands. The business model adopted in Zara is unique and one of a kind. The business model followed by Zara is a popular fast fashion retail model. On the other hand, the business model of Primark is aimed at providing low cost products to the consumers. The business model implemented by Primark is a ‘no whistles no bells’ business model in which redundant services are done away with to make the supply chain more efficient and to incur low operating

Science and its Impact on Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Science and its Impact on Society - Essay Example However, in the recent past, there has been a growing awareness among society that the effects of science and related research are not always beneficial. The perception amongst people is that science will only lead to the destruction of nature eventually. That no matter what advancement in technology is enjoyed; the harmful effect on our planet in the name of research and science is increasingly being felt. Only those aspects of science receive attention in society which suit the goals or which inspire awe - this indicates that people at large read science because it serves their purpose or because the subject is topical, sensational or controversial. At most, only a handful read science for the sake of the knowledge it might impart. Much research is required to identify those subjects so that science could be made more popular and effective. Science was a great investment towards a better life and this resulted in the discovery of light waves and radio waves, the electric motors, the first photograph and telephone, and the first publication of the periodic table. There was also great controversy when Charles Each society is faced with the challenge of keeping its proper place in a world defined by economic and political change. Knowledge, in particular science, technology and innovation, is indispensable to meet this challenge. Scientific and technological progress results in new innovations that are an integral part of international competitiveness. This translates into what the society's needs and aspirations are, such as peace, jobs, security, health and sustainable development of the planet. Viewing science from two angles: The benefits are many: medical advancements have saved many lives; internet and increased access to information is definite; research in the field of weather has led to the predictions of storms and the study of astronomy has given society knowledge of the formation of Earth and of the solar system. The adverse effects are: The medicines prescribed come with their own side effects; and nuclear technology! This scientific knowledge has helped in creating bombs which are used for massacres and gruesome killings; it has also been used for energy, releasing radiation which causes medical problems to many. Factors controlling the usage of science: The relationship between science, controlled by the government, and society is a hostile one because the society that enjoys benefits of science cannot do anything to prevent the side-effects of science - it is powerless to take action to curb the harmful turn of events that result from science; especially more so if the science is

Causes of the Mexican-American War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Causes of the Mexican-American War - Essay Example In addition, if one is to point the finger of blame at someone, at least a basic examination of who that person was, should be done first - as, even if the situation was that person's fault, an understanding of that person's motivation will surely give a greater understanding of the conflict itself. That is where this examination of the causes of the Mexican-American War will start - with a brief look at American's eleventh president himself. We will then deal with the westward expansion of the American population and the concept of Manifest Destiny. Only then will enough information be avalible to make a preliminary determination of how much each cause (including Mr. Polk) actually contributed to the start and continuation of the Mexican-American War. James K. Polk was born in North Carolina in 17951. His father was of Scottish and Irish background, and his mother was Scots as well. Hi father was a Democrat who supported Jefferson, thus Polk was brought up as a Jefferson Democrat.2 One of ten children in a successful farming and slave owning family, James was often ill, which delayed his formal schooling3. In 1806, his family followed its relatives in a move to Tennessee, where they became quite well to do plantation owners, and, in addition, his father became a county judge. Growing up in a successful slave owning family quite probably affected Polk's presidential policies, especially those concerning slavery and territories that strongly supported slave-holding. Through family connections, James Polk was accepted and attended the University of North Carolina. It was there that he first developed the skills that he would use in his political career - as both a speech maker in the Dialectic Society, and as the Society's first two term president. After graduating from the University of North Carolina, Polk moved to Tennessee to study law, and to be a the Clerk with the state Senate simultaneously from 1819-18224. In 1822, Polk left his position as Senate Clerk to run for office. His strong speech making skills won him the seat, and soon the reputation of one of the senate's great orators.5Polk was a very strong leader who, by the time he became president in dominated the American government of the day. It was the seven years that Polk spent in congress starting in 1828, as the speaker of the house and as Tennessee's governor that developed the strong leadership skills he employed as America's eleventh president6. It was these skills that Polk employed when war broke out after the annexation of Texas, which forced him to adapt his peacetime leadership skills to those of Commander in chief of the American Forces7. A similarly volatile situation with Great Britain over the Oregon Territory, was resolved by Polk though diplomacy alone. Thus, James K. Polk was able to employ both military and diplomatic means to solve conflicts and international disagreements. 2.1 Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny Manifest Destiny is an expansionist view where one country or people expands by pushing the other out of the way - "elbowing owners of property rudely to one side" while "making away with their possessions."8 It was "a policy of imperialism rationalized as inevitable (as if granted by God)"9.

Team Development Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Team Development - Research Paper Example After a few practices, I was beginning to question whether I was right to take on the role of the leader of a dance group. The initial few meetings with the group can best be described by Woodcock’s analysis of team development. During this time, the objectives of the group were unclear and feelings were not expressed among group members. This stage of team development is otherwise known as the â€Å"Undeveloped Team† (Woodcock 1979). The group members were more interested in checking their cell phones or simply chatting with each other. Because of this, everything that I said had to be repeated more than once so that everyone could follow along with the lesson plan. This inevitably led to two, three, or four-hour classes instead of just the usual hour. I was the one responsible for making the decisions of the group, and I felt like I wasn’t getting through as I would have liked. The experience that I had with this group was in direct contrast to the work of Wheelan et al. (2003), who state that the first stage of group development is dependency and inclusion (p. 224). In this theor y, group members are unsure of where they are heading and rely on the leader to provide direction. The first part of this statement is true except that the group that I was working with had no interest in performing at any great level; if they had the motivation to achieve highly, then I am sure that they would have warmed to me at the beginning. As time progressed, I began to grow weary at my attempts to try and get the group to take hold of what I was teaching them. Before the lessons began, many of them seemed interested in taking the class; there weren’t any other youth activities in the church for them to participate in. Perhaps it was simply that they took dance lessons for granted because there was nothing else to interest them. However, for me personally it felt as though I was banging my head against a brick wall. I knew that I had to do something to

Hills Like White Elephant Essay Example for Free

Hills Like White Elephant Essay Ernest Hemingway makes use of the image of a white elephant in Hills Like White Elephant. Legend has it that the emperor of Thailand used to give white elephants as gifts for those people he was displeased with and wanted to punish. The white elephant is useless for normal uses and is extremely expensive to feed and care for. However, once someone has been given a white elephant he or she cannot get rid of it because it was a gift from the emperor. Therefore the emperor punishes the person with his gift.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In this story, there is virtually no narrative; there are a few descriptions, but for the most part these descriptions are neutral, almost to the point of being bland or lifeless. The story is advanced by the dialogue between the unnamed American man and the young woman Jig who are discussing whether or not she should have an abortion of the child she is expecting.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Jig notices the hills in the distance and says they look like white elephants. Clearly the man views the unborn child as a white elephant that if allowed to be born will become expensive and unmanageable. He feels threatened by the possibility of having a child to rest. He tries to convince Jig, that all the abortion entails is letting in the air and then its all perfectly natural. It is clear that the man is feeling crowded by the possibility of having to raise a child. He need fresh air.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   At first blush, one might thing the white elephant in the story is the unwanted child as the man does. However, on further reflection however, it appears that the white elephant is the unnamed man. He has become too expensive for Jig to maintain the relationship. The relationship is not worth the price of aborting the unborn child. Although Hemingway doesnt explicitly say so, it appears that Jig will refuse to have the abortion and if the unnamed man cannot deal with raising a child he is welcome to seek his own life away from her and the baby.

Scary Story Essay Example for Free

Scary Story Essay When I finally fell asleep I was running. To this day I do not know what from. Whatever it was it must have been the most terrifying thing ever to exist for I seemed to be running without trying to. It was as if I had almost no control over my body. I wished to see what I was running from so I tried to open my eyes. I don’t know what I was expecting to happen. Perhaps I thought that my body would not respond to my commands as it didn’t with the running. Therefore it was a surprise to me when at my first attempt to open my eyes they did. I so wish I hadn’t. What I saw still haunts me most nights. I know that it was worse than any horror story ever made. For that reason I have great difficulty in dictating what I saw on that dreadful night not just emotionally but for the fact that the words do not exist to express exactly what I saw but I will do my best. It was worse than any horror story ever made there was a thick liquid dripping down the walls that looked suspiciously like blood. And it was not just dripping; it was splattered over the walls as if someone had been brutally murdered there. There were scratches in the walls, like someone- no not just someone- but a child by the size of the marks-had literally worn their fingers down to the knuckles trying to escape, as if that was there only way to survive. It did not seem logical that they stopped there at the time for it looked then like there were miles and miles left before the end of that gruesome tunnel. But then my feet felt as if they were on fire. I looked down and I saw then why those poor unfortunate souls had stopped there. Nails two inches long at least, sticking up out of the floor, and the walls and the ceiling, but these nails were red hot. I mean you could actually see the words scratched lightly on the wall ‘turn back’ ‘this is your doom’ and little scratchy tally marks all over the top of hundreds of tiny little skeletons all stuck on the spikes like spoils of war. As I looked at the skeletons time seemed to turn backwards these pale bleached white bones seemed to grow younger and then it started. They grew rotting flesh on the bones with maggots crawling in and out and then the flesh grew and grew, the maggots still crawling around. Then the flesh started growing and forming skin and then the faces started screaming out in pain calling out for their mothers and fathers. Then the screaming intensified louder and louder until it reached a deafening pitch and volume thousands of dead children screaming in fright, pure terror in their eyes but they were all looking in different directions, at the spikes that were brandishing them where they were slumped. Then the spikes started growing and lengthening. Growing through the bodies of these thousands of children, all still while they are screaming themselves ‘to death’ without taking a single breath. That was the only sign that they were not ‘living and breathing’, that and the fact that the blood from where the spikes bored holes in their young frail bodies was gushing onto the floor faster than I ran through that awful tunnel. The layer of blood was growing and taking over the floor until it was lapping over my still running feet which were stepping, I just realised, on every single spike they could find, until they grew too huge. I tripped while my foot was still speared by the now over foot long spikes. As I fell into the deep layer of blood collecting on the floor I felt the spikes attack every inch of my skin, gouging through my eyes, carrying on through my brain, paralyzing me and then shattering my skull until I was face flat in the blood. The blood of thousands of dead children swelling in my ears, filling my mouth as I try to scream out for help, going up my nose as I try to take a breath. I could feel myself dying. I could feel my own warm blood filling my skull and drenching my hair. I knew I was going to die. I tried and failed for one last breath, the blood of all those poor children. Children whose parents would have never had closure for their deaths, some still thinking that their babies will one day come home, knowing in their heart of hearts that they are dead and never coming back, filling my lungs. And then I woke up drenched in a thick cold sweat, terrified, of ever sleeping again.

Cross cultural awareness

Cross cultural awareness Cross Cultural Awareness For The International Manager Successful Cross Cultural Management And The Anticipated Characteristics Of France And Brazil Introduction It has been commented that to minimise or resolve conflicts between different cultures they should first be grouped or categorized to measure their differences (Trompenaar, 2006). The UK scores fairly low in the uncertainty avoidance index, suggesting that people in these cultures are less risk averse and feel relatively secure (French, 2008). In terms of the workplace, this can be reflected in a high employee turnover and managers encouraging risk taking and to expect change (Overby, 2005). When taking Trompenaars dimensions of universal or particular (the extent to which rules are followed regardless of the situation and people involved) into consideration, it may help to explain further where this behaviour or reasoning comes from. Products and services are being offered on a global scale, posing a serious problem when a universalist culture engages in business with a particularist society, where the importance of relationship is ignored. Trans-cultural effectiveness is not only measured by the way one culture values another but also by the ability to reconcile the dilemmas, resolving them promptly, and the extent to which both values are synergised as one (Hemple, 2001). Hemple emphasises upon the importance of such an understanding in the current globalisation era. At present, when companies become global, there is predominantly an inevitable move towards the universalist view (Hemple, 2001). In order to go about such a task, Trompenaars dimension of universal v particular is a helpful tool to signify the importance placed upon relationships and people compared to individual needs (Trompenaars F. H.-T., 1998). Trompenaars Neutral V Affective Trompenaars dimension of neutral v affective describes the extent to which a culture displays emotion, either openly (affective) or in a restrained manner (neutral) (Gooderham, 2003). A cross cultural venture will involve communication between a variety of groups and people. The way in which people communicate is diverse and consequently the manner in which behaviours and actions are inter-operated also differs, leaving room for miscommunication. For example, people from a neutral culture may perceive displays of emotion in the workplace as unprofessional behaviour whilst the lack of emotions displayed by those from a neutral culture may be perceived as deceitful behaviour from the affective cultures point of view (Snodgrass, 2002). With the display of emotions in affective cultures, it maybe that communication is not just seen as a verbal exchange, rather, value is placed upon gestures. Although, minimal or indirect speech is made; facial expressions, actions, and body language may prove to be more influential than words. Without the knowledge of such cultures and their practices, there is a possibility of miscommunication. People from a neutral culture may interpret the lack of verbal communication to be impolite, rather than picking up on the meaning behind gestures such as body language. Halls description of high and low context cultures is reminiscent of neutral v affective, but primarily focuses on the communication styles of such cultures, specifically, on how they communicate (French, 2008). Trompenaars Specific V Diffuse This aspect is useful in providing an insight into how employees perceive their position in the workplace. Those from the diffuse culture value their work and do not separate their responsibility in the workplace from their personal life. In fact, both facets of their life are integrated and are an essential element of who they are. Whereas, those from the specific culture clearly separate their work life from their personal life. They deem their work to be a means of acquiring a valuable objective, such as earning an income in order to achieve a better quality of life. The insights obtained from this dimension may explain any variations in commitment over time amongst employees. Although, neither culture is inaccurate in their thinking, it may still present differences that lead to conflict. For example, those of the diffuse culture may feel obligated to stay behind outside their contractual working hours or work during their lunch break in order to complete a task, as opposed to those of the specific culture who may take their full lunch break and sign off at the end of the day upon completion of their contractual working hours. In turn, those of the diffuse culture may feel unappreciated as they might consider themselves to be earnest whilst viewing their colleagues as insincere. As well as giving an insight into employee behaviour, the specific v diffuse dimension can also elaborate on how employees work and how their interaction with colleagues translates into their personal life (Binder, 2007). France France scores highly on Hofstedes uncertainty avoidance index which is reflected in the emphasis placed upon rules in the workplace with managers endorsing rules, regulations and control of employees. Employees in return seek job security and significant benefits such as health insurance and extended holidays (Overby, 2005). This has an impact on the internal work culture in that managers closely supervise and guide their employees and as a result employees often have little autonomy in their job role. This brings about the issue of HRM practices in a cross cultural venture; whereas performance related pay, individual appraisals etc. are common practice in UK organisations they may not be as successful in French organisations where guidance and control are valued as being a sense of security due to low uncertainty avoidance. French employees value team work and to stand out or receive individual recognition from the rest of the team may be seen to demean or show up others in contrast to being seen as individual achievement. This is also related to the customers perception of an organization when buying products/services; they would prefer to build up relationships carefully and to maintain them as opposed to a quick sale (Trompenaars F. H.-T., 1998). However, similarities are apparent between the UK and France in the use of goal setting (in a HRM context) but with an emphasis on joint goal setting as opposed to individual. This demonstrates the indirect effects of uncertainty avoidance, initially it may be thought of as a resistance to change and enhanced caution towards new people and new procedures. However, the way in which work is organised needs to be adjusted in order to get the most out of employees in a mutual context. For example, (Trompenaars F. W., 2001) research highlights an example of the French nature when change is to be implemented into an organisation: â€Å"†¦..The French, in turn, were so much worried about the unions and how to keep their people motivated†¦..When I came back some three months later to check how the implementation was going, I noticed in France and Germany nothing had started yet (Trompenaars F. W., 2001).† This should therefore be something to consider when UK managers communicate, organise and develop people and organisations from different cultures. Not only for a smooth transition but also for the impact it can have on achieving corporate objectives. Inter-Relational Dimensions BIRTISH TENDENCIES FRENCH TENDENCIES Universalism: rules Middle Universalism / Particularism: rules, relationships Individualism: focus on individual Collectivism: focus on group Neutral: reserved with emotions Affective: demonstrative with emotions Specific: distance in relationships Specific: distance in relationships Achievement: doing/merit Middle Ascription / Achievement: being/status, doing/merit (Parsons, 1951) Trompenaars Neutral V Affective Research shows that France has an implicit culture in which communication is often indirect as opposed to being concise and clear as of the explicit culture and communication methods of the UK. The French manner of communication and importance resulting from an affective culture can impact their approach to analysis. It is often the case that these implicit societies will â€Å"think more diffusively or holistically, making decisions more on intuition than on facts and figures. They can often seem indirect and ambiguous (Overby, 2005).† Therefore in the workplace it may be apparent that a high concern is given to the needs of people in and around the organisation and ensuring those needs are being met as a priority over getting the job done and spending time discussing factual impersonal information (Overby, 2005). As a result when UK and French employees and managers are together it will be important to address the issue of emotions; taking into consideration the Frenchs attitude towards uncertainty as well. Suspicion, doubts and caution maybe demonstrated in a highly effective way rather than the culture often found in western organizations such as the UK, where suspicion, doubts and a sense of unease is often only apparent amongst small groups as opposed to sharing these feelings or making them known in a more outward manner. Trompenaars Specific V Diffuse For those in specific cultures such as the UK, clear differences and separation is given in terms of their status and persona portrayed between work and social lives. In contrast diffuse cultures like France withhold the same persona in work and outside of work and believe that their work status plays a significant role in their perceived status in society. This can bring differences in how colleagues interact with each other (if at all) without the confinement of the workplace. Workplace social events or gatherings are commonly viewed in the UK as being an opportunity to really get to know and speak to the real person without the confinements of position, status or duties to influence a persons behaviour or actions. However, in a diffuse culture such an occasion may not be perceived in the same way; such people may find it difficult to speak with or associate with others without giving respect to the status or position they have in the workplace. In this instance diffuse cultures look to the status or position of an individual as a way of dictating who the individual is and thus how others should interact with them. This dimension closely relates to the significance and importance given to status across cultures. As mentioned previously, the UK can distinguish between work and social life and thus a manager in the workplace regardless of achievements, experience and qualifications will not necessarily be given the same respect and admiration outside the workplace. In contrast France (diffuse culture) maintains the same respect and status of that person which can often bring privileges and favours outside the workplace purely from the respect given to their status. For example, those who have graduated from Grande Ecoles (the French elite of universities) go on to hold top positions within organizations and government (Earley, 2002). However, the respect and status awarded to them holds the expectation amongst society that they will ensure the well-being of the community within the organization. Brazil Brazil scores quite high on the uncertainty avoidance index which is indicative of its culture where structural order is sought to reduce uncertainty (Hofstede, 2009). Strict procedures are implemented in order to reduce ambiguity and avoid conflict (Hofstede, 2009). Alternatively, the culture in U.K embraces ambiguity and thrives on conflict. There are flexible structures in place and risks are endorsed without fear of failure. For the British, failure is another step in the way towards success whereas the Brazilian, perceive it negatively. Both perceptions are a reflection of their respective flexible and structured hierarchical societies. Therefore, it is important in Brazil, to avoid confronting one about an issue concerning others and putting them on the spot about an opinion (Trompenaars F. W., 2001). The Brazilian tendency to avoid risk may affect how business is conducted with U.K as both differ severely in this regard and it will be important to consider this as it might aff ect future joint business ventures or trade partnerships. Inter-Relational Dimensions BIRTISH TENDENCIES BRAZILIAN TENDENCIES Universalism: rules Particularism: relationships Individualism: focus on individual Collectivism: focus on group Neutral: reserved with emotions Affective: demonstrative with emotions Specific: distance in relationships Diffuse: involvement in relationships Achievement: doing/merit Ascription: being/status (Parsons, 1951) Trompenaars Neutral V Affective People from affective cultures like Brazil tend to show their emotions, whereas someone from a neutral one like the U.K will appear more reserved and refrain from demonstrating emotions (Trompenaars F. H.-T., 1998). The style of interrelating is different in Brazil as compared to the UK as eye contact, touching, and personal spaces are important to them. Therefore, it is important to consider these interpersonal elements of interaction when engaging in business with the Brazilian since they can build or deter trust, understanding, and likeability of clients. Awareness of these subtle differences can help in avoiding embarrassing situations or offending someone. The Brazilian, have transparency and expressiveness in release of tensions and may seem dramatic in delivery of statements as emotions flow vehemently and without inhibition (Earley, 2002). Its different from the British culture where emotions are concealed and there is a lack of physical contact, gestures, or strong facial ex pressions along with a monotone style of oral delivery. Trompenaars Specific V Diffuse In a diffuse society like Brazil, closeness and confidence between those working together will be more important than a fancy sales presentation of a product or service as might be the case in the U.K. The final decision of signing a deal will reflect the relationship building that has taken place during the negotiation process. This concept of diffuse is exemplified in the treatment of clients arriving in Brazil. According to the video series â€Å"Doing Business in Brazil† (Boulder, 1977), visiting business people are usually picked up in person by a driver or some representative from the company for all appointments and are invited to meals and social events. In the case of the specific relational category reflected in the U.K., clients basically must fend for themselves by taxi and relationships are kept strictly to business. The main point in this video is that in Brazil, the key to doing business is building personal relationships and integrating oneself into the local n etwork. The idea of private versus public space also correlates with the diffuse versus specific context. Trompenaar (Trompenaars F. H.-T., 1998) cites the example of a situation where if a manager or director were to encounter a subordinate in a social context completely separate from work. In a specific-oriented culture like the U.K., the two individuals would be on equal ground, the levels of professional hierarchy less significant. However, in a diffuse- oriented society like Brazil, the hierarchical space and the superiority of the higher rank would permeate more noticeably into every situation, work-related or not (Trompenaar, 2006). Therefore, even in an encounter outside of work, the subordinate must still defer to the authority. Caution must be taken to heed the local system of hierarchy in Brazil when dealing with the social levels and status even though it is less egalitarian than the U.K. It could be offensive to a Brazilian to not respect the social distance between one self and an inferior. Appendices Power Distance Index (PDI) that is the extent to which the less powerful members of organizations and institutions (like the family) accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. This represents inequality (more versus less), but defined from below, not from above. It suggests that a societys level of inequality is endorsed by the followers as much as by the leaders. Power and inequality, of course, are extremely fundamental facts of any society and anybody with some international experience will be aware that all societies are unequal, but some are more unequal than others. Individualism (IDV) on the one side versus its opposite, collectivism, that is the degree to which individuals are integrated into groups. On the individualist side we find societies in which the ties between individuals are loose: everyone is expected to look after him/herself and his/her immediate family. On the collectivist side, we find societies in which people from birth onwards are integrated into strong, cohesive in-groups, often extended families (with uncles, aunts and grandparents) which continue protecting them in exchange for unquestioning loyalty. The word collectivism in this sense has no political meaning: it refers to the group, not to the state. Again, the issue addressed by this dimension is an extremely fundamental one, regarding all societies in the world. Masculinity (MAS) versus its opposite, femininity refers to the distribution of roles between the genders which is another fundamental issue for any society to which a range of solutions are found. The IBM studies revealed that (a) womens values differ less among societies than mens values; (b) mens values from one country to another contain a dimension from very assertive and competitive and maximally different from womens values on the one side, to modest and caring and similar to womens values on the other. The assertive pole has been called masculine and the modest, caring pole feminine. The women in feminine countries have the same modest, caring values as the men; in the masculine countries they are somewhat assertive and competitive, but not as much as the men, so that these countries show a gap between mens values and womens values. Uncertainty Avoidance Index (UAI) deals with a societys tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity; it ultimately refers to mans search for Truth. It indicates to what extent a culture programs its members to feel either uncomfortable or comfortable in unstructured situations. Unstructured situations are novel, unknown, surprising, and different from usual. Uncertainty avoiding cultures try to minimize the possibility of such situations by strict laws and rules, safety and security measures, and on the philosophical and religious level by a belief in absolute Truth; there can only be one Truth and we have it. People in uncertainty avoiding countries are also more emotional, and motivated by inner nervous energy. The opposite type, uncertainty accepting cultures, are more tolerant of opinions different from what they are used to; they try to have as few rules as possible, and on the philosophical and religious level they are relativist and allow many currents to flow side by side. People within these cultures are more phlegmatic and contemplative, and not expected by their environment to express emotions. Long-Term Orientation (LTO) versus short-term orientation: this fifth dimension was found in a study among students in 23 countries around the world, using a questionnaire designed by Chinese scholars It can be said to deal with Virtue regardless of Truth. Values associated with Long Term Orientation are thrift and perseverance; values associated with Short Term Orientation are respect for tradition, fulfilling social obligations, and protecting ones face. Both the positively and the negatively rated values of this dimension are found in the teachings of Confucius, the most influential Chinese philosopher who lived around 500 B.C.; however, the dimension also applies to countries without a Confucian heritage. Bibliography 1. Binder, J. (2007). Trompenaars dimensions. Retrieved December 16, 2009, from Global Project Management: http://www.globalprojectmanagement.org/index.php?option=com_contenttask=viewid=23Itemid=32 2. Boulder, C. (Director). (1977). Doing Business in the Americas-Brazil. [Motion Picture]. 3. Brake, T. a. (1995). Doing Business Internationally: The Guide to Cross-Cultural Success. NewYork: Irwin Professional Publishing. 4. Earley, C. G. (2002). Multinational Work Teams: a new perspective. Erlbaum Associates. 5. (2008). In R. French, Cross Cultural Management in work organisations. (p. 97). London: CIPD. 6. Gooderham, P. N. (2003). International Management Cross Boundary Challenges. Blackwell Publishing, 141. 7. Hemple, P. (2001). Differences between Chinese and Western managerial views of performance. Personnel Review, 30,2. 8. Hofstede, G. (2009). Geert Hofstedeâ„ ¢ Cultural Dimensions. Retrieved December 15, 2009, from ITIM International: http://www.geert-hofstede.com/hofstede_france.shtml 9. Overby, J. (2005). An integrative review of customer value management and national culture: France and the United States. International Journal of Management, 168. 10. Parsons, T. (1951). The Social System. New York: Free Press. 11. Snodgrass, C. S. (2002). Human Factors in Information Systems. IRM Press, 78. 12. Trompenaar, F. (2006). Resolving International Conflict: Culture and Business Strategy. Business Strategy Review, 7(3). 13. (1998). In F. H.-T. Trompenaars, Riding The Waves of Culture. 2nd edition (p. 5). London: Nicholas Bealey Publishing Limited. 14. Trompenaars, F. W. (2001). A new framework for managing change across cultures. Journal of Change Management, 368.

Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

It amazes me that we are finally here! Throughout the years, I have often thought about this moment. How it would feel to be with all of you, in our caps and gowns, finally graduating. I remember as a child, thinking about what I would look like when I was "all grown up," how I would act, who I would love and what kind of person I would become. And now here it all is, we're ready, we're done with high school, and I couldn't be more thrilled or scared! We go through this twelve-year metamorphosis, and then one day, we wake up and its over, our ascent into adulthood has come. We're ready to face all that life has to throw at us, to make a life for ourselves, outside of school and childhood, to go to college, take a year off or get a job. Yet at the same time, it can be terrifying to complete...

Essay About Family: Inside the Nightstand :: Personal Narrative essay about my family

Inside the Nightstand We live together now, my boyfriend and I. It’s still new to both of us. 41 North State Street- that’s us. The quiet apartment lined by two rows of cement drive, an oak tree, and his step-mother’s opinion that we are â€Å"too young to be living together seriously.† We share our bedroom, square in shape, with the bed pressed tightly to the far wall, curtains embracing the narrow sides of the mattress. It’s ours- the bed, the room, the oak tree, and the way my toothpaste sticks to the sides of the white sink. The toothpaste doesn’t bother me, but it’s something I’m working on. We’re still getting use to all this. Sharing a bathroom is what we’re working on at the moment. Home alone I find myself organizing- shiny silverware drawers, old, half-bent novels, rows of mismatched socks. My mother calls and tells me I must get out more. I opt instead for making the bed in our square shaped room, but not before casting myself between the sheets, my bare back feeling warm against the patch of sun-stricken cotton. Beside the bed is the nightstand. My face shines innocently in a picture of myself taken with my father at age four. His dark bushy hair and matching 80’s mustache contrast with the pale frame of my body sitting on the counter beside him. Near that is the picture of my best friend Erin and me. We were in Paris. The close frame of the picture cuts off anything below our necks, hiding her belly that has recently become home to a tiny son- due to arrive early January. Inside the nightstand many things sit quiet: an old red wallet, a shirt with a broken left strap, a journal, and a stack of pictures from my 21st birthday party. I open the wallet to see if, by chance, I was smart enough to leave myself some backup cash. The slots inside lay empty, bent over from years of wear and tear. I remember how I used some of my graduation money from high school to buy this wallet.

The Maturation of Charlotte Brontes Jane Eyre :: Jane Eyre Essays Bronte

The overriding theme of Jane Eyre, is Jane's continual quest for love. Jane searches for love and acceptance through the five settings in which she lives: Gateshead, Lowood, Thornfield, Moor House, and Ferndean. Through these viewpoints, the maturation and self-recognition of Jane becomes evident, as well as traceable. It is not until Jane flees from Rochester and Thornfield, and spends time at Moor House, that her maturation to womanhood is complete. At this point, Jane is able to finally return to Rochester as an independent woman, fully aware of her desire to love, as well as to be loved. From the onset of the novel, we see the world through the eyes of Jane; a strong character who wishes to overcome her birth rite as an orphan in Victorian times. From this viewpoint, we are able to trace how Jane progresses in her struggle for individuality, as well as for love. At Gateshead, it becomes apparent that Jane is terrifically self-willed and possessive of a fiery temper. An example of this is when Jane stands up to her aunt saying, "You think I have no feelings, and that I can do without one bit of love or kindness, but I cannot live so: and you have no pity" (Bronte, 68). Here, Jane makes her first declaration of independence, contending that she will no longer be a secondary member in the Reed household. At Lowood, Jane is repulsed by Mr. Blocklehurst and his "two-faced" character and coarseness. However, while at Lowood, Jane finds her first true friend in the form of Helen Burns, another student at the school. Helen teaches Jane of love in the form of religion. By means of instruction as well as by example, Helen is able to convey this message. When Jane is punished in front of the whole school, she tries to accept it as though it has some higher purpose. However, Jane still desires human affection and is deeply hurt when she is scorned. Jane goes as far as to say, "If others don't love me, I would rather die than live." Helen's response, "You think too much of the love of human beings," is a testament to her devout faith (Bronte, 101). When Helen is dying of Typhus later on in the story, she reminds Jane, "I believe: I have faith: I am going to God" (Bronte, 113). Jane is able to draw strength from Helen's faith, ultimately making her (Jane) stronger.

Economic and Employment Opportunities of Tourism in Bangladesh : a Study on Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation

Economic and Employment Opportunities of Tourism in Bangladesh : A Study on Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation 1. Prelude The New Millennium and the coming decades are very much crucial for the developing countries to achieve sustainable economic growth. Tourism is considered to be a large income generator of the world economy contributing over 10 percent to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). For at least one third of the developing countries, the tourism receipts are the main source of export revenue and the tourism industry generates sustainable economic benefits to the developing countries. The exceptional growth of tourism over the last 50 years is going to be one of the most remarkable economic and social phenomena of the 21st century. The number of international arrivals shows an evolution from a mere 25 million arrivals in 1950 to the 763 million of 2004 representing an average annual growth rate of more than 7 percent over a period of 50 years – well above the average annual economic growth rate for the same period. Tourism has clearly outperformed all the other sectors of the economy and has grown into the most significant economic activity in the world. The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2007 of World Economic Forum (WEF), which aims to explore the factors and policies driving travel and tourism competitiveness in nations worldwide, has found Bangladesh fourth from the last among 124 countries. Endless neglect to this sector by the successive governments is to blame for the sad situation. Bangladesh has been ranked 120th. Among the neighbors, India is ranked 65th, Sri Lanka 79th, Pakistan 103rd and Nepal 106th. In 2006, the sector generated 10. 3 percent of world gross domestic product (GDP), providing 234 million jobs ; or 8. percent of total world employment. Tourism has many faces, eco-tourism is one of them. Eco-tourism is comparatively a new term in tourism literature. The term â€Å"Eco-tourism† blends â€Å"ecology† and â€Å"tourism† and covers the scope of tourism that draws upon natural, manmade and cultural environments. Eco-tourism came into prominence in the eighties as a strategy for rec onciling conservation with development in ecologically rich areas. Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC), the National Tourism Organization of the country was established in 1973. It is of earnest importance to evaluate the role played by the BPC over the last 35 years (1973-2007) for the development of tourism industry in Bangladesh and to find out what are the challenges faced by the BPC to develop the tourism industry in Bangladesh and finally to explore the possibilities of economic and employment opportunities of Bangladesh through tourism. No comprehensive study has so far been done in this regard. The proposed research will attempt to fill up this gap. 2. Statement of the Problem The term ‘Tourism’ or ‘Tourist’ was first used as official term in 1937 by the League of Nations. Tourism’ or ‘Tourist’ is a word related to the word ‘tour’ which is derived from the Latin word ‘tornus’ which means a tool for describing a circle or a turner’s wheel. It is from this word, that the notion of a ‘round tour’ or a ‘package tour’ has become popular. Many countries view tourism as part of their development strategy and as an economic alternative to traditional economic sectors such as agriculture and industry. Rapid development in the means of transport and communication has made the world into practically one single neighborhood. There are several benefits from tourism. Tourism plays a sizeable role in national prosperity. The foreign exchange earnings earned by the industry increase foreign exchange reserves and positively affect the balance of payments. Tourism has become the third source of foreign exchange earner, after ready-made garments industry and gems and jewelries. In 2006, the Government of Bangladesh has earned 5000 million taka from this sector. Tourism generates employment opportunities in many sectors, particularly in remote and backward areas. It is highly labor intensive and it offers employment opportunities to skilled and unskilled workers alike. Tourism has a tremendous employment potential, both direct (travel agents, transport operators, hotels, guides) and indirect (handicrafts, increased demands for foods, clothes, etc. ). According to the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2007 of World Economic Forum (WEF), in Bangladesh tourism contributes 1. 5 percent to the GDP and it provides 1. 2 percent employment opportunity of the total employment. Tourism can also stimulate investments in new infrastructure, much of which helps to improve the living conditions of local citizens. The development goals of the government is to create infrastructure facilities on par with international standards. Proceeds from tourism help to maintain and develop the already existing infrastructural facilities. Tourism offers enormous scope for properly maintaining monuments, palaces, natural attractions etc. In addition to the economic benefits, travel opportunities promote social and political understanding among nations and cultures. People belonging to different cultures and social backgrounds come together to break down prejudices and inhibitions that too often exist among ethnically and sociological diverse groups. The benefits of tourism are especially important for a developing country like Bangladesh. Both from economic and social points of view, tourism can play an important role in Bangladesh’s development. The World Tourism Organization estimates that the total number of international tourists will reach about one billion in 2010. South Asian country currently captures only one percent of this market, but the number of international tourists is expected to grow by 7. 2 percent per annum between 2000-2010. With this perspective the necessary growth stimulus and arrangements are largely absent in Bangladesh. Under the circumstances, what BPC and private sector can jointly perform in near future in boosting up this vital sector of our economy is a big question. This study is undertaken to have some answers to this question. 2. 1Definition of Key Terms For this study there are three key terms such as opportunity, tourism and the BPC. The key terms are defined below: Opportunity A time or occasion that is suitable for a certain purpose; a favorable combination of circumstances. It can also be defined as a favorable or advantageous circumstance or combination of circumstances. Tourism has two types of opportunities such as economic and employment opportunities. Tourism Tourism is a service based industry comprising a number of tangible and intangible elements. The tangible elements include transport, foods and beverages, tours, souvenirs and accommodation, while the intangible elements involve education, culture, adventure or simply escape and relaxation. It can be defined as the act of travel for the purpose of recreation, and the provision of services for this act. Tourism means the business of providing accommodation and services for people visiting a people. BPC Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC), the National Tourism Organization of the country was established in 1973. It is an autonomous organization and has been placed under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. It has the dual responsibility of development of related tourist facilities and promotional activities to project the tourist products thus to create a favorable image of the country. 2. 2BPC and Its Structure 2. 2. 1Emergence of BPC Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC), the National Tourism Organization of the country was established in 1973. It is an autonomous organization and has been placed under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. 2. 2. 2Structure of BPC The Governing Body of BPC consists of a full-time Chairman and minimum two and maximum four Directors. At present, one Chairman and three Directors are employed in the organization. 2. 2. 3Objectives of BPC The objectives of BPC are as follows: †¢To introduce Bangladesh globally as a top tourist destination and develop its tourism prospects and facilities. †¢To establish tourism infrastructure in Bangladesh. †¢To develop, expand and promote tourism business. To create tourism awareness among the people. †¢To establish institutes for instruction and training of potential tourism personnel. †¢To publish tourism publications. 2. 2. 4National Tourism Policy The National Tourism Policy was declared in 1992. Its main objectives are: ? To create interest in tourism among the people ?To preserve, protect, develop and maintain tourism resource s ? To take steps for poverty-alleviation through creating employment ? To build a positive image of the country abroad ?To open up a recognized sector for private capital investment ? To arrange entertainment and recreation ?To strengthen national solidarity and integrity. In line with the policy, the Government provides incentives to attract private sectors partners. The incentives include tax-holiday, loans, concession rates for taxes and duties and in specific cases, allotment of land etc. 2. 2. 5Tourist Arrivals Foreign tourist arrivals in Bangladesh has been showing an upward trend in the recent years. Statistics of the last 10 years are presented below: Table 1:Foreign Visitors Arrival by Months (1996-2005) Month1996199719981999200020012002200320042005 January15609176001448517663231602554823711221932367020213 February13011164901980014022187302072416152190412501215848 March9878174851739415323159822006217898165062426219853 April11112144531814313730149761921615372152992317316234 May12402147881316913430156471592615771179961495918535 June11178133111207612484142121660615754218672302017496 July14016128301247513688148091551714345229572699119773 August13282134841134813016133991673914315190412193815292 September1226312468998611529128741101513022179681986013166 October15582156881512717126158551305318601234982178515568 November15827169711390915388194891526517136210282720818399 December21727168521404915380200781752825169271151939217285 Total165887182420171961172779199211207199207246244509271270207662 percentage Change6. 189. 97-5. 730. 4815. 34. 010. 0217. 9810. 94-23. 45 Source:Special Branch From Table-1, we can say that the foreign visitors are increasing day by day. But total percent is changing. In 1996, total percent change was 6. 18 perc ent. In 1997, it was increased to 9. 97 percent. But in 1998, it was negative for example –5. 73 percent. In 2005, it was also negative like –23. 45 percent. Figure 1:Foreign Visitors Arrival by Months (1996-2005) From Figure 1, we can say that as per foreign visitors’ arrival by months, January is the peak season of foreign tourists and September is the dull season. Figure 2 : Foreign Visitors Arrival 1996-2005 From Figure 2, we can say that 2004 is the highest year in the context of foreign visitors arrival. The year 1996 is the lowest. 2. 2. 6Foreign Exchange Earnings from Tourism and Other Travels Table 2:Foreign Exchange Earnings from Tourism & Other Travels (1996-2005) Month1996199719981999200020012002200320042005 January70. 20231. 80351. 20184. 90227. 80273. 80297. 50259. 00457. 00450. 42 February73. 40106. 50146. 00224. 90261. 60218. 10260. 60327. 00393. 70502. 73 March81. 30142. 60302. 70255. 30230. 90196. 10336. 20355. 90425. 90468. 50 April84. 20130. 50170. 60207. 20234. 00219. 00312. 50241. 10309. 40335. 56 May121. 80182. 90161. 70172. 30210. 70240. 50282. 70226. 30305. 00347. 95 June137. 10172. 20176. 80182. 70193. 10221. 70313. 00288. 00279. 70301. 23 July98. 10156. 70167. 50167. 00234. 80207. 10267. 50302. 30303. 60296. 98 August111. 40145. 20192. 50182. 80129. 30170. 50251. 50232. 00285. 90354. 61 September99. 40692. 80154. 50179. 70218. 10193. 0245. 90217. 30293. 10334. 14 October157. 40256. 10167. 30186. 10239. 40187. 00205. 00265. 10247. 90332. 67 November176. 50253. 20245. 50280. 50234. 50234. 80277. 70224. 20250. 42324. 45 December190. 40270. 90215. 50218. 50212. 80291. 80262. 5371. 80415. 94444. 65 Total1401. 202741. 42451. 82441. 926272653. 83312. 633103967. 64493. 9 Percentag e Change46. 6995. 65-10. 45-0. 127. 141. 0224. 82-0. 08-19. 8713. 37 Million $33. 5962. 4552. 3749. 9550. 3747. 5657. 2156. 9866. 8270. 01 Source: Special Branch From Table 2, we can say that 2005 is the highest foreign exchange earnings year from tourism and other travels and the year 1996 is the lowest. Table-2 shows that the foreign exchange earnings is gradually increasing day by day. Figure 2:Foreign Exchange Earnings from Tourism & Other Travels (1996-2005) From Figure 3, we can say that February, 2005 is the highest foreign exchange earnings month. Figure 3:Foreign Exchange Earnings from Tourism & Other Travels (1996-2005) From Figure 4, we can say that 2005 is the highest foreign earnings year and 1996 is the lowest. 2. 3Panorama of Tourism in Bangladesh Bangladesh is a combination of verdant forests, riverine countrysides, and long stretches of sun-bathed beaches, fearsome wildness, meandering rivers and magnificent world’s largest mangrove forest. Bordering the Bay of Bengal stands this magical tapestry in green with all the glory of its past and the splendid colors of its natural present. These unique products possess a great potential for environment friendly tourism. The country is home to the Royal Bengal Tigers, leopards, Asiatic elephants, monkeys, langur, gibbons (the only ape in the subcontinent), otters and mongooses. Reptiles include the sea tortoise, mud turtle, river tortoise, pythons, crocodiles, gharials and a variety of snakes. There are more than 600 species of birds, including the Paradise Flycatcher and the most spectacular kingfishers and fishing eagles. 2. 3. 1 Scope of Tourism in Bangladesh Bangladesh has many attractive spots from the viewpoint of tourism. These spots are divided into two categories based on nature and culture. Natural Areas Under this category the first one is the unique and magnificent Sundarbans Mangrove Forest, which is the world’s largest mangrove forest and the home of the world renowned Royal Bengal Tiger, the most ferocious predatory animal on earth. As being the World Natural Heritage declared by the UNESCO, this mangrove forest now belongs not only to Bangladesh, but also to the whole world, though the responsibility to protect the forest lies with Bangladesh. Among the other spots, Chittagong hill districts are mentionable where 13 tribal groups live in an area of about 2592. 1 square kilometers. The biodiversity and natural beauties of the hilly areas along with the different customs and traditions of the localities could be an attractive subject to the tourists. Besides the Sundarbans, numerous mighty rivers, paddy fields stretched up to the horizon, picturesque tea gardens and Chittagong Hill Tracts, St. Martin’s Island, Rangamati and Kaptai Lake are also potential tourism products on their own attraction. Cultural Areas In this category the 14th century pre-Mogul period Shat Gambuz Mosque at Bagerhat has been declared as a world heritage by UNESCO in 1985. Besides, our pre-Mogul and Mogul period mosques, Hindu temples and ancient Buddhist monasteries have great appeal to the eco-tourists, who like cultural heritage. The 8th century Paharpur Buddhist Monastery in Naogaon, another world heritage declared by UNESCO, is the single largest Buddhist monastery in the world. Whereas Borobodhur in Indonesia which is half of the size of Paharpur Monastery earns no less than us $ 500 million per annum; in the latter case the scenario is completely opposite of Bangladesh only for well publicity. Moreover, the ancient civilizations like Mohasthangar in Bogra, ancient Buddhist Monasteries and stupas/temples in Mainamoti, pre-Mogul period Kusumba Mosque in Rajshahi, Chhoto Sona Mosque of the same period in Chapai Nababganj, Lalbagh Kella in Dhaka, Govinda Shiva and Jagannath Temples in Rajshahi can also be world heritage sites. Above all, the multi-faceted folk heritage enriched by its ancient animist, Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim roots, weaving, pottery, and terracotta sculpture are some of the earliest forms of artistic expressions to attract the sustainable tourists. 2. 3. 2 Necessary Steps Required for the Tourist Spots Although in Bangladesh we have some world-class tourism spots both natural and cultural, unfortunately all the spots are almost unknown to the foreign tourists and consequently are not attracted by them. In the following part the steps for developing nature-based and culture-based spots are mentioned respectively. 2. 3. 3 Nature-based Tourist Spots Mangrove Forest of Sundarbans deserves attention from the tourists. Necessary steps should be taken so that the tourism organization worldwide may highlight the destinations like Sundarbans forest. For example, in the Sundarbans forest areas Mawalis are allowed to enter the forests in the months of April and May for collecting honey. The Forest Department only permits them with a paper slip. They enter the forest and destroy the honey combs and kill the bees drastically and brutally during of collecting honey. This happens because the collection is never scientific and systematic. If this could be managed scientifically and properly, the local Mawalis will be benefited economically, the forest areas will be rich in biodiversity. Ultimately everything in the honey harvest will be environmentally sound. The natural honey production in the Sundarbans areas by the endemic species of bees is unique in the world. It is necessary to take serious measures in the field not only for economic benefits but also for conservation of unique natural beauties in the forests. All the steps in this forest should be taken in such manner so that every flora and fauna can be able to generate their respective species in an optimal trend; moreover, tourist spots should be placed in those points from which no threats can be created to the ecosystem of Sundar bans. Next to Sunder bans, Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) can be mentioned under nature-based tourist spots. The tourist spot approach and practice is necessary in this area not only for local tribes and castes but also for conservation of their traditions so that this hilly region can be one of the most spectacular sustainable tourism areas. 2. 3. 4 Culture-based Tourist Spots In Bangladesh, there are many culture based tourist spots where the local people can be involved for increasing total number of tourists in the country. There are such possibilities we have in Bangladesh, but all of them cannot be brought into practice for description, only few can be taken. In Bangladesh almost all of the ancient Temples and Monasteries are found neglected although they may be the attractive spots for tourists. It is found that the last 12 kilometers of the road to Paharpur Monastery from Naogaon is extremely narrow and full of potholes. The construction of a new approach road to the monastery, having less than three kilometer of length, can save tourists from traversing though that horrible 12 kilometers of potholed road. For some restoration works and beautification of the monastery site, the government needs to spend some money. That investment will pay the country high return annually in foreign currency for years. 2. 4Research Questions i)What are the possibilities of economic and employment opportunities of Bangladesh through tourism? ii)What role is BPC playing in this regard? ii)What are the past growths and challenges of tourism in Bangladesh? iv)How can the challenges be overcome? v)How can tourism be flourished as a great potential for the economic development? A modest attempt will be made in this study to get answers of the above questions. In view of the above inquiries the fo llowing objectives are set for the study. 3. Objectives of the Study The study is designed to achieve the following objectives: (i)Broad Objective: The broad objective of the study is to analyze past growth trends and challenges of tourism and to explore the economic and employment opportunities of tourism and to evaluate the role of BPC in developing tourism industry of Bangladesh. ii)Specific Objectives: The specific objectives of the study are as follows: (1)To analyze the growth trends of tourism and its importance in relation to economic development of Bangladesh (2)To study the growth trends, performance and role of BPC (3)To see the possible benefits of eco-tourism (4)To examine the tourism market of the country and to examine the policies and programmes to attract the tourists (5)To assess the employment opportunity created in the tourism sector (6) To identify the challenges of tourism and to project the future of tourism market in Bangladesh. 4. Review of Literature It is worth noting that the review of literature provides an understanding of the issues closely related to the topic. Moreover, it is a crying need to justify the research under-study and to find out the knowledge gap in the field. The researcher has studied a number of web-sites, books, articles, reports and manuscripts on tourism sector. It has been found that literature with specific focus on this sector is not sufficient. However, a brief review of literature is given below. 4. 1 Afroze (2007) â€Å"Eco-tourism and Green Productivity in Bangladesh† written by Afroze discusses the development of tourism market in Bangladesh. Firstly, he discusses the major tourist attractions like Cox’s Bazar, Hilly Districts, Paharpur etc. Secondly, he discusses the role of BPC and other government, semi-government and non-government agencies. Then he mentions prospects of eco-tourism in Bangladesh. He tells that Bangladesh is endowed with the largest mangrove ecosystems in the world, the Sundarbans, the longest unspoiled natural sea-beach in the world, the largest man-made lake at Kaptai, and the Hilly Districts of Rangamati, Bandarban and Khagrachari and a vast offshore marine environment. He also discusses the role of government for the development of tourism industry in Bangladesh. He also tells that proper infrastructure is a prerequisite for the development of tourism. Lack of infrastructure has been one of the prime causes of slow tourism development in Bangladesh. He suggests that brochures and other promotional material could be distributed through all foreign missions in Bangladesh, through Bangladesh Biman, the national carrier. This article gives the researcher a true picture of tourism market in Bangladesh. It will be very helpful to the researcher but it lacks overall discussion of growth and challenges of tourism in Bangladesh. So the scope of the present study is wider than that. 4. 2 Amin (2007) The author in his article named â€Å"The Role of Tourism in Bangladesh Economy† emphasizes the role of tourism in developing countries for their economic development. He mentions some positive benefits of tourism, i. e. , tourism offers the opportunity of providing jobs for different classes of people and thereby contributing to the alleviation of poverty in developing countries. Tourism generates jobs directly through hotels, restaurants, taxis, souvenir sales and indirectly through the supply of goods and services needed by tourism related business. In addition, tourism can induce the local government to make infrastructural improvements and also make an important contribution to a country’s balance of payments. He also mentions that tourism development may be an important instrument for economic advancement for Bangladesh if necessary initiatives are taken. But he does not mention what initiatives are taken? He does not mention anything about the role of BPC for the development of tourism in Bangladesh. The article exists some limitations and the scope of it is narrow. So the present research is an elaborative one. 4. 3 Bashar (2007) The author in his article titled â€Å"Services of Forests: Socio-cultural Roles and Nature-based Eco-tourism† defines eco-tourism, describes the eco-tourism spots and states the benefits of eco-tourism. He tells that in Bangladesh , we have some important forest areas Chittagong (Sitakondo, Karaerhat, Chunati), Cox’s Bazar (Eidgaon, Eidgar, Fashiakhali), Sylhet ( Lawasara and Rama Kalenga), Mymensingh (Sherpur), Tangail (Modhupur), Noakhali (Nijhum Islands) and Khulna ( Sundarbans : the largest mangrove) to be considered as the eco-tourism spots. This analysis is a partial one of tourism in Bangladesh. It is not a wide analysis. It does not cover the role of BPC, the policies and initiatives of BPC to the tourism. So, the present study is wider than that. 4. 4 Firoz (2007) â€Å"Eco-tourism in Bangladesh† by Firoz defines eco-tourism and then shows the economic objectives of tourism in Bangladesh. He states that the tourism industry in countries like Bangladesh is driven by economic objectives, seeking an increase in taxes, job opportunities and infrastructure development. Then he defines eco-tourism and shows positive and negative benefits of eco-tourism. He states that the negative environmental impact of eco-tourism development is of serious concern. In Nepal, for example, the rapid growth of the trekking industry has increased pollution in the Himalayas as well as Kathmandu and caused dangerous crowding and destruction of trails. This article has some limitations. The scope of it is not wide. The analysis of this article is a part of the tourism industry. 4. 5 Hasan (2004) The author in his article named â€Å"Developing Eco-tourism in Bangladesh† defines eco-tourism and tells the prospects of eco-tourism market in Bangladesh. He defines eco-tourism as nature and culture-based tourism. He mentions that in Bangladesh we have some world-class tourism products, both natural and cultural. Our Sundarbans is a nature-based world heritage designated by the UNESCO. It is the largest mangrove forest in the world. The 8th century Paharpur Buddhist Monastery in Naogaon, a world heritage, is the single largest Buddhist Monastery in the world. He suggests that to attract more and more international eco-tourists to Bangladesh, we need to get recognition, such as the world heritage, from the UNESCO, for the world-class national heritage we have in our country. This article only discusses eco-tourism and its prospects which is part of our tourism industry. It does not cover the growth and challenges of tourism. He does not analyze the role of BPC. So the present study is wider than that. 4. 6 Haque (2006) â€Å"Tourism Industry in Bangladesh† written by Haque discusses various aspects of development of tourism industry in Bangladesh. According to the author, tourism provides not only economic prosperity but also provides people with the opportunity to enrich themselves with new experience, enjoy the rare attractive things of other countries and gather knowledge about them. The author focuses that there is a vast potentiality to develop this industry in Bangladesh. This country has long tradition to accept the people from far and near for ages with enchanting natural beauty, archaeological and historical monuments, colorful culture and friendly people. The author describes various policies and initiatives taken by the BPC for the development of tourism industry in Bangladesh. This article is very sufficient for the researcher. But he does not mention the challenges of tourism faced by the BPC. So there exists some limitations. 4. Huque (2004) The author in his article titled â€Å"Eco-tourism and Some Rich Tourist Spots in Bangladesh† states that generally man wants to know what is unknown to him and to see what he has never seen. This ardent desire and inner urge has given rise the modern concept of tourism. Then he defines eco-tourism and he mentions some tourist spots which are best potential for eco-tourism. He tells that eco-tourism has originated from conscience of environment. He mentions that Bangladesh is blessed with two of the world’s splendid and enchanting eco-tourism spots the Sundarbans and the Chittagong Hill Tract. He also tells that the benefit of tourism is immense. The scope of the article is not wide. It only analyzes eco-tourism and its prospects. It does not cover the overall discussion of tourism. 4. 8 Haque (2005) â€Å"Tourism: Our Gold Mine for Development† discusses that Bangladesh is a country blessed with marvelous stunning spectacles and potential tourist spots and unique topographical attractions which have served promising features worthy of taping for immense economic benefits and commercial tourism. He tells that tourism has earned its unique position as a wide range of business dimensions and is regarded like a goldmine for economic development and prosperity. This article will help the researcher very sufficiently. But it does not cover all the things related to the tourism. 4. 9 Kabir and Bhuiya (2004) The authors in their article titled â€Å"Eco-tourism Development in Bangladesh: An Overview† state that in Bangladesh, eco-tourism is in its infancy. But she belongs to a high eco-tourism potentiality. Our forests, beaches, rivers, birds ethnic races would be the main attractions of eco-tourists. The paper is a modest attempt to explain the present situation of eco-tourism development in Bangladesh from development viewpoint and with a critical assessment. The paper is prepared based on published and unpublished secondary sources. The study helps the researcher very sufficiently. It does not cover the growth and challenges of tourism in Bangladesh. So the scope of this study is limited. 4. 10 Kayemuddin (2005) The author in his article named â€Å"Golden Future of Tourism Industry in Bangladesh† states that Bangladesh is a country of full of fun and place of enjoyment. He tells that tourism is an important industry in any country. He mentions that there are some problems in the way to develop tourism in Bangladesh. The problems that identified are as follows : very limited spots are available for tourism, shortage of infrastructure, adequate attention has been focused, lack of appropriate programmes. internal air services limited etc. He also states that the problems may be overcome through joint efforts of the Government and the Peolpe of Bangladesh. This article will help the researcher very sufficiently. But the scope of this is not wide. 4. 11 Mansur (2007) â€Å"Why is Tourism Lagging Behind in Bangladesh? † by Mansur identifies the bottlenecks that are holding the industry back in Bangladesh and proposes reforms that could make tourism one of the biggest foreign exchange earning sectors in the country. He states that our tourism industry is full of problems and bottlenecks most of which are man-made and possible to overcome if we have sincerity in tackling them. A few challenges remain but for the moment it will be enough to work with what we can change and achieve easily. He states that a national tourism organization that has the following qualities : it should be completely independent consisting of experienced professionals from the industry, it must be headed by an experienced professional from the industry etc. The analysis of this article is worthy for the researcher, but the scope of it is limited. 4. 12 Mondal (2006) The author in his article titled â€Å"Tourism Enriches† narrates a brief picture of tourism in Bangladesh. He says that the present tourism sector are faced some problems and constraints and these are – Bangladesh’s image problem abroad as a tourist destination, lack of knowledge among the planners and policy-makers, discontinuity in the implementation of policies and programmes for tourism promotion with the change of governments etc. At last he comments that if Bangladesh can solve the above problems and constraints, she will shortly become an important destination for regional and international tourists. The article does not cover all the things related to tourism. So it is a limited one. 4. 13 Rahman (2007) The author in his article named â€Å"Bangladesh: A Host of Tourist Treasures† states that the tourism industry of Bangladesh has great potentials both as a foreign exchange earner and provider of job opportunities with the resultant multiplier effect on the country’s economy as a whole. He also tells that the BPC is primarily a tourism service provider and promoter of tourism product. He also focuses that Bangladesh has huge prospects of tourism. He mentions some tourist spots like Cox’s Bazar, Kuakata, Sundarbans which have huge potentials. This article does not cover all the things related to the tourism sector. The scope of this article is limited. 4. 14 Salam (2007) The author in his article named â€Å"Eco-tourism Protect the Reserve Mangrove Forest, the Sunder bans and Its Flora and Fauna† describes that nature-oriented tourism can be one means to help achieve sustainability in the reserve forest as well as protecting the important world heritage site. He also states that well-planned tourism could provide economic and political incentives for proper management and for conservation and could ring additional benefit to local communities and regional economies. This article covers only specific things to the tourism sector. It does not cover the role and performance of the BPC. 4. 15 Siddiqi (2003) The author in his article named â€Å"Bangladesh as a Tourist Destination† identifies ‘eco-tourism ’ as a new concept to develop tourism without disturbing ecological balance. The author identifies some problems of tourism sector such as lack of professionalism, negative image of the country, shortage of properly qualified and efficient manpower etc. These are causing hindrance to the development of tourism. The problem is so acute that the BPC has so far not been able to develop definite tourism products. The analysis and explanation of this article is not sufficient. It only discusses the problems, but does not show any solution. 4. 16 Siddiqi (2007) The author in his article named â€Å"Bangladesh is Gold Mine of Eco-tourism Attractions† states that Bangladesh has wealth of eco-tourism attractions. He also states that the goal of eco-tourism development in Bangladesh should be to capture a portion of the enormous global tourism market by attracting visitors to natural areas and using the revenues, to find local conservation and fuel economic development. This is a partial analysis of tourism. It is not elaborative. It does not cover the growth and challenges of tourism in Bangladesh. 4. 17 Siddiqi (2007) Public-Private Sector Partnership Essential to the Development of Tourism† states that tourism development has been an activity which depends on two main groups : the public and the private sectors. The government, in its leadership role, has always been known to spearh ead and pioneer tourism development, by the infrastructural foundation, providing the legislative, physical, fiscal, social and environmental framework, within which the private sector can operate. He also tells that the private sector is considered to be the entity that sustains the tourism industry with its entrepreneurial skills in key sectors such as hotel establishments, travel agencies, tour operation and resorts. At last, he states that we strongly believe that if the government works as felicitator and provides all support o the private sector for their commercial ventures, the development of tourism in the country will get the real boost. The article does not cover all the things related to the tourism sector. It only deals with the co-operation of both public and private to the development of tourism in Bangladesh. 4. 18 Siddiqua (2006) The author in her article named â€Å"Eco-tourism: New Approach to Economic Development in Bangladesh† discusses various aspects of development of eco-tourism industry in Bangladesh. She only emphasizes on the economic sides of eco-tourism. The study is a review work based on secondary data and information. Information and data on eco-tourism for different countries are studied. The analysis of her includes economic impacts of eco-tourism, scope of eco-tourism in Bangladesh, role of eco-tourism on Bangladesh economy. The scope of this article is not wide. She does not mention the role and performance of BPC to develop tourism in Bangladesh. 4. 19 Saha and K. C. (2005) The authors in their article named â€Å"An Assessment on the Problems and Prospects of Eco-tourism in Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP), Nepal† state to provide insights into the demand and the relative importance of the eco-tourism by examining the characteristics and motivations of local and international tourists participating in eco-tourism ventures at Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP), Nepal. They also state that another prerequisite of eco-tourism is to create schemes, which allow the local communities to obtain fair share and direct benefit from eco-tourism and to bring incentives from biodiversity conservation. A tourism that combines basic needs of the local community and ensures environmental conservation issues can assure sustainable eco-tourism. Primary and secondary data are used in this study. The study indicates that eco-tourism can be the bridge between biodiversity conservation and developed in the study area. The analysis of this study is not elaborative. It is partial analysis of tourism industry. This study is confined to the specific thing. So, the present study is wider than that. 4. 20 Ullah (1996) The writer in his book titled Hridaye Parjatan expresses his view that the roblems faced by a developing country are different from those faced by a developed one of the west. He states that tourism is one of the important sectors in the world. It provides job opportunity, foreign exchange earnings. He did not mention the functions of BPC, manpower, services and financial performance. He opined that the policies of BPC are not enough to promote the development of tourism market in Bangladesh. He does not analyze the role of BPC separately. The review of literature suggests that, there exists knowledge-gap in the field of present research. No comprehensive research was conducted so far in Bangladesh in this context. 5. Justifications and Feasibility 5. 1 Justifications The existing knowledge-gap in the above discussion makes the main justification for undertaking the present research. Bangladesh is a developing country. Tourism is an important source of foreign exchange earnings, offering opportunities for job creation and infrastructure development, even in remote areas. The UNWTO says that 2007 is critical for tourism to become a very strong tool in the fight against poverty and a primary tool for sustainable development. The present tourism sector in Bangladesh does not present a pleasant picture. International tourist arrivals in 2001 stood at 207,199. Available sources suggest that the number stood at 207,662 in the year 2005. This means an addition of only 463 foreign tourists in four years. The meager foreign exchange earning due to low arrival of foreign tourists, particularly western tourists, represent one percent of Bangladesh’s total export economy. Direct and indirect employment in the tourism sector is slightly over 100,000 and 200,000 respectively, and this is a discouraging figure against the country’s total labor force of 75 million or so. The proposed research is supposed to examine the problems and challenges and suggest remedial measures. The research will be very much useful to the planners and policy-makers relating to the tourism sector in Bangladesh. The research will be useful to the academicians and researchers. The findings will open new avenues of research on the tourism sector and also be used as a secondary source of data by researchers of days to come. 5. 2 Feasibility The researcher is confident of completing the proposed research successfully by exploring the feasibilities mentioned below. i)The researcher is a student of Economics and teaches Industrial Economics at undergraduate level. The Economics background and academic command over industrial policy will help the researcher to complete the study successfully. ii)Some studies of this kind were undertaken in some of the developed as well as developing countries, particularly in India, the outcomes of which are available in printed forms and in the internet. These studies will benefit the researcher substantially. ii)Necessary data are available from authentic sources, like BPC, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) and other Government sources. Some research organizations like Bangladesh Ins titute of Development Studies (BIDS), Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) etc. provide ample data along with analysis. iv)Supervision and close monitoring of supervisor, logistic support for IBS and intellectual help from other think-tanks will make the study possible. v)The fellowship granted by IBS to the researcher will contribute to bear some of the expenses to undertake the proposed research. Besides, the researcher is helpful to avail himself of grants and scholarship from some other sources like SSRC, UGC, etc. which will supposedly relive the researcher and help the study complete within the stipulated time. 6. Methodology 6. 1 Definition The word ‘method’ is derived from two Greek words viz. ‘meta’ and ‘hodos’ meaning a way, a way of doing something. A method is a planned, systematic and well articulated approach of investigation. It involves a process where the stages or steps of collecting data are explained and analytical techniques ar e also defined. Methodology is a set of methods which are used in a particular area of activity. It is the systematic study of the principles which guide scientific investigation. 6. 2 Selection of Method The proposed research will be an evaluative type of study. Mainly documentary method will be applied in conducting the proposed study. Justification of adopting documentary method is that it is appropriately applicable in finding out what has happened in course of time and correlating the events. The analysis of the research will be primarily quantitative in nature, although to realize the objectives of the study, qualitative approach will be necessary. The research will exploit the data of the last 35 years (1973-2007) of the BPC. The researcher will undertake an opinion survey on purposively selected persons. 6. 3 Study Area The study area will be three categories of tourism such as nature, culture and water-based tourism. The selected tourist spots for this study are Sundarbans, Pharpur Buddhist Monastery and Cox’s Bazar. 6. 4 Sources of Data The research will exploit the data of the last 35 years (1973-2007) of the BPC. Both primary and secondary but mostly secondary data will be used in the study. 6. 4. 1 Primary Sources Primary sources include interviews and discussions with the purposively selected persons, unpublished documents of BPC etc. 6. 4. 2 Secondary Sources Secondary sources include published official statistics, reports, documents, books, articles, periodicals of different domestic and international agencies, daily newspapers, theses, dissertations, statistics and publications of BPC and the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. Web-sites of related local and international institutions will also be used as sources of data. 6. 5 Sample Design Type of Sampling: Purposive Sampling Procedure will be followed: Respondents †¢Policy makers (20) †¢Employees of BPC (20) †¢Private Tour Operators (20) †¢Tourism Consultants (10) †¢Local Tourists (50) †¢Foreign Tourists (20) †¢Tourist Guides (10) †¢Sample Size: 150 6. 6 Instruments for Data Collection Data will be collected by using different types of tools like questionnaire, interviews, discussions etc. 6. 7 Analysis of Data Data and information provided by the sources will be analyzed with rationality. Collection and processing of data will be done with prudence and acknowledgements. Analyses of data will be accomplished with the use of frequency distributions, measures of central tendency, time series and simple regression. Interpretations of facts will be done by the use of various tools, such as tables, charts, line graphs, bar-diagram, pie-chart, histogram and historigram. 6. 8 Interpretation Primary analysis will be reexamined with critical observation and logical arguments. 7. Scope of the Study and Limitations 7. 1 Scope of the Study The proposed research is supposed to display the economic and employment opportunities of tourism in Bangladesh. The researcher will analyze the growth trends of tourism and its importance in relation to economic development of Bangladesh. Then the researcher will study the growth trends, performance and role of BPC. The researcher will examine the tourism market of the country and to examine the policies and programmes to attract the tourists. How the BPC is running and how it can play our economy to create employment opportunity and to earn foreign exchange and what are the challenges faced by the BPC to develop tourism industry in Bangladesh. The researcher will identify the challenges and to project the future of tourism market in Bangladesh. At the beginning, the policy and initiatives measures taken by the BPC will be evaluated. Then the way of development of tourism process will be analyzed. The core area of the study will be the explanation of the performance of BPC. Finally, the study will offer some policy recommendations in order to help perform better by the BPC. 7. 2 Limitations of the Study i)Tourism is a virgin field in Bangladesh. No comprehensive research work was done before. No text book is available. Tourism –related articles, features are only found on daily newspapers, magazines etc. ii)Data of the early years of BPC are sometimes not available. iii)Time and resource constraints also exist. 8. Time Reference The proposed research is designed to cover the time span of 35 years from 1973 to 2007. 9. Time Frame 1st phase: July 2006 – June 2007: †¢Completion of one year long course work at IBS †¢Preparation for undertaking the research 2nd phase: July 2007 – June 2008: Presentation of M. Phil registration seminar †¢Preparation, pre-testing and finalization of questionnaire †¢Completion of data collection and processing †¢ Presentation of conversion seminar for Ph. D. program 3rd phase: July 2008 – June 2009: †¢Completion of draft dissertation writing †¢Editing and upgrading the draft †¢Presentation of pre-submission seminar †¢Submission of the final dissertation 10. Projected Thesis Structure Chapter 1: Introduction 1. 1 Prelude 1. 2Statement of the Problem 1. 3Operational Definitions 1. 4Objectives of the Study 1. 5Review of Literature 1. 6Justification of the Study 1. 7Scope and Limitations of the Study 1. 8Methodology 1. Plan of Dissertation Chapter 2: Growth Trends of Tourism in Bangladesh 2. 1 Growth of Domestic Tourists 2. 2 Growth of International Tourists 2. 3 Growth of Foreign Exchange Earnings 2. 4 Growth of Infrastructure for Tourism 2. 5 Prospects of Tourism Investment 2. 6 Contribution of Tourism in the National Economy 2. 7 Conclusion Chapter 3: Importance of Eco-tourism in Respect of Economic Development of Bangladesh 3. 1 Importance of Eco-tourism 3. 2 Tourism and Economic Development 3. 3 Tourism and Infrastructural Developme nt 3. 4 Economic Impact of Eco-tourism 3. 5Role of Eco-tourism on Bangladesh Economy 3. 6 Conclusion Chapter 4: BPC’S Role as a Tourism Industry and Its Performance 4. 1 Introduction to BPC 4. 2 Objectives of BPC 4. 3 Functions and Responsibilities of BPC 4. 4 Administrative Setup of BPC 4. 5 Tourism Facilities Created Under BPC 4. 6 Performance of BPC 4. 7 Conclusion Chapter 5: A Critical Analysis of Tourism Policy, Development Strategies and Prospects of Marketing 5. 1 Tourism Policy of Bangladesh 5. 2 Critical Analysis of Tourism Policy 5. 3 Review of First Tourism Development Master Plan 5. 4 Scope of Tourism in Bangladesh and Prospects of Marketing 5. 5 Present Development Plan 5. 6 Conclusion Chapter 6: Creation of Employment in Tourism Sector 6. Employment Opportunity in Bangladesh 6. 2 Direct Employment Opportunity Created Through Tourism 6. 3 Indirect Employment Opportunity Created Through Tourism 6. 4 Prospects of Job Opportunity to Be Created Through Tourism 6. 5 Conclusion Chapter: 7 Challenges and Future of Tourism Industry in Bangladesh 7. 1 Tourism Industry in Bangladesh 7. 2 Challenges of Tourism Industry in Bangladesh 7. 3 Tourism and Economic Growth 7. 4 Tourism and Foreign Exchange Earnings 7. 5Projection of Inflow of Tourists 7. 6Role of Media 7. 7 Conclusion Chapter: 8 Summary of Findings and Conclusions 8. 1 Preamble 8. 2 Findings 8. 3 Recommendations 8. 4 Conclusions Bibliography Appendix 11. Conclusion Present research proposal is based on preliminary review of literature and it is tentative in nature. It may undergo changes with progress of the study as well as with incorporation of better suggestions, recommendations, opinions of scholars, teachers and learned supervisor. Bibliography (Tentative) A. Manuscripts Chandra Praba, A. â€Å"Environmental Aspects of Tourism in Palani an Opinion Survey†. M. Phil. Dissertation. Madurai Kamarj University. Madurai, 2002. George, P. O. â€Å"Management of Tourism Industry in Kerala†. Unpublished Ph. D. Thesis. Mahathma Gandhi University. Kottayam, 2003. Kalaiarasi, N. â€Å"An Economic Study of Tourism in Madurai City. † M. Phil. Dissertation. Madurai Kamaraj University. Madurai, 1991. Kamalakshy, M. V. Hotel Industry in Kerala with Reference to Tourism†. Unpublished Ph. D. Thesis. Cochin University of Science and Technology. Kerala, 1996. Sudheer, S. V. â€Å"Tourism in Kerala Problems and Prospects†. Unpub lished Ph. D. Thesis. University of Kerala. Kerala, 1992. Rajadurai, M. â€Å"An Economic Study of Growth and Pattern of Tourist Inflows in Tamil Nadu†. Unpublished Ph. D. Thesis. Madurai Kamaraj University. Madurai, 2005. B. Documents Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC). Tourism Statistics of Bangladesh. 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Hasan, Faruque. â€Å"Developing Eco-tourism in Bangladesh†. The Daily Star. 27 September 2004. Hossain, Muhammad and Akter, Nasrin. â€Å"Electronic Means in Tourism: Applicability and Challenges for Bangladesh†. Journal of Institute of Bangladesh Studies. Vol. 29 (August, 2006). Kayemuddin, Prof. Dr. Md. â€Å"Golden Future of Tourism Industry in Bangladesh†. The Bangladesh Observer, Observer Magazine. 25 March 2005. Mondal, M. Abdul Latif. â€Å"Tourism Enriches†. The Daily Star. 27 September 2006. Mansur, Hasan. â€Å"Why is Tourism Lagging Behind in Bangladesh? †. The New Age. 16 May 2007. Naik, G. P. and S. G. Kulkarni. â€Å"Socio-Economic Benefits of Tourism†. Indian Commerce Bulletin. Vol. 2 No. 2 (August, 1998). Siddiqi, Raquib. â€Å"Bangladesh as a Tourist Destination†. The Bangladesh Observer, Observer Magazine. September 19, 2003. Siddiqua, Tasnim. â€Å"Eco-tourism: New Approach to Economic Development in Bangladesh†. Khulna University Studies. Vol. 7, No. 1 (June, 2006). Saha, S. K and K. C. , Deepak. â€Å"An Assessment on the Problems and Prospects of Ecotourism in Royal Chitwan National Park (RCNP), Nepal†. Khulna University Studies. Vol. 6, No. 1&2 (June-December, 2005). Sherlock, K. â€Å"Revisiting the Concept of Hosts and Guests†. Tourism Studies 1(3), 2001. The Bangladesh Monitor. (A Fortnightly Journal, Vol. XVI, Issue No. 16), 1-15, April 2007. Veerrrasikaran, R. â€Å"Significance of Tourism in India†. The Southern Economist. Vol. 32 No. 9 (September 1, 1993). Vijayakumar. â€Å"New Strategy for Indian Tourism Industry†. Southern Economist. Vol. 37, No. 10, 1998. E. Websites Afroze, Ruby. â€Å"Eco-tourism and Green Productivity in Bangladesh†. Link: http://www. apo-tokyo. org/ag/e_publi/gplinkeco/07chapter5. pdf. Amin, Sakib Din. â€Å"The Role of Tourism in Bangladesh Economy†. The New Nation (Web edition). Link: http://nation. ittefaq. com/artman/exec/view. cgi/60/32702. Firoz, Remeen. â€Å"Eco-tourism in Bangladesh†. Link: http: