God and Person :: essays research papers

God and PersonThe word individual can be interpreted and defined in many diametric ways, and there argon many different aspects to consider when stating what a person really is. Accomplishments, goals, likes, dislikes, and experiences in keep make a person who he or she really is. Traits most central to being a person include consciousness, reasoning, self-motivated activity, the capacity to communicate, and having a self-concept. A mind does contribute to a persons selfa mind is what makes up part of a person, yet does not define one. A soul is the greatest element of a person. Your instincts, personality, and true feelings are all held within the soul of a person. But last, but not least, society has a major contribution and influence on a person, and can sometimes help define what a person really is. There are so many different ideas running free in society that people latch on to, creating and assisting in molding who a person really is. current principles and standards of s ociety influence peoples choices and beliefs in life. Society is not a substantial part of who a particular person is, but it is an atrocious contributing factor.Events, relationships, and situations throughout someones life do show what a person really is. A person is someone who has many different emotions and thoughts within themselves, and the life that one lives through, or the events that one sees, also helps to establish who and what a person evolves and disc everywheres himself or herself to be. A person is someone who stands up for what they trust in to help a cause, someone who appreciates who they are and what life really is, and someone who can decipher the concept and meaning of right from wrong. A person has many aspects, but it is not one particular thing that makes a person a person. Its mind, body, soul, social issues, and other qualities rolled into one. Epistemological considerations are also used in the definition of a person when considering and bringing God i nto the picture. Epistemology is being able to know what you know about God therefore, a person is also made up of beliefs and ideas too. We know about God by reading books, listening to the Word of God at Mass, looking over the Bible, etc., but you must often have faith to even believe in God. Faith and mystery both play majors roles when considering God in the light of the human person.

Green Goblin :: essays research papers

There are many super heroes I could have chosen to do this report on, but I chose non to. Instead, I chose a super villain we all know his name is the colour Goblin.The meaning of a super hero is a figure endowed with powers usually used for fighting crime. So a super villain would be a figure endowed with powers used for causing crimes. The crime causing Green Goblin was created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko in July of 1964. He filled the position of Spidermans most deadly villain. He first appeared in Spiderman14 the jolly series.Before becoming the Green Goblin he was known as Norman Osborn the second, or as Spidermans best friends dad. He became the Green Goblin because one of his experiments at Osborn Industrial (he was the owner) went terribly wrong. The messed up experiment caused him to have the following powers/gadgets super strength, pumpkin bombs and other sorts of bombs. He did not use these new found powers as Spiderman did the Green Goblin used them for chaos. To be specific he used his powers to fight Spiderman and his other enemies. As the eld went by the Green Goblin changed a lot. He started out in a comic book, which was later turned into a television show. In the class 2002 he was featured in the movie Spiderman the Movie. Another sort of change that occurred in his life time was his costume and his powers. He started as a teeny goblin with a hat (as seen in the picture on the left) to one with a full body suit (as seen in the picture on the right.) In addition to his powers of super strength and pumpkin bombs, other gadgets were introduced, such as electric bombs and a hoverboard. In conclusion, the Green Goblin has made it a desire way from the comic book series to big time movies.

The Day of Infamy :: Imagery Terror Terrorism 9/11 Essays

The Day of Infamy Erupting on a crisp September morning, terrorist attacks bring America to a standstill. As the day began, it was an average Tuesday morning and New Yorkers as well as the rest of United States Citizens had no idea that in a calculate of moments their city and their lives would be changed forever. People were doing what they had done thousands of times before. Some were on their way to work while others were sitting at their desks, checking e-mail, sipping coffee or culture the morning paper. Out of the clear blue sky an airplane was hijacked and was heading for the twin tower. People heard an approaching noise and then all of a sudden a loud explosion The twin towers of the World Trade Center were the symbols of Americas prosperity. Dr. Stefan Pasternack, a clinical professor of Georgetown University who specializes in the impact of terrorism and butcher says Its one thing to think of a truck blowing up in front of a building. This involved the use of civilian ai rcraft-the see to itry is much more(prenominal) frightening. What we see here is what terrorism is all about. The idea is to make people feel that they brush offnot feel protected by their government (Black Tuesday 20). With World War II being a fight for national survival, terrorism is the struggle to preserve national values and stand for what we, as Americans, believe. As president Bush stated, Terrorists attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America (Black Tuesday 12). The attacks on our nation nearly brought America to a halt. Around the world security was tightened. Air expedition stopped, businesses closed and government facilities were evacuated Tuesday morning of September eleventh. For the first time in United States history, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) shut down air dealing nationwide. There were many incoming flights from around the world, carrying anywhere from four thousand to six thousand passengers, that were diverted to Canada. Authorities shut down all the tunnels and bridge in and out of New York City. All train services were shut down and many shipping ports were also closed down. The most memorable image of September eleventh was the Twin Towers that were engulfed in smoke and flames. Over and over the Towers flashed across Television screens and on the front pages of newspapers.

Voice, Imagery, Symbols and Theme in Snows of Kilimanjaro Essay

Voice, Imagery, Symbols and Theme in Snows of Killamanjaro The Snows of Kilimanjaro, a short story by Ernest Hemingway, is a brilliant study of a mans final hours precluding expiration. The story centers around Harry and his wife, clip lag for a plane to come and take him to a doctor or hospital. therefrom begins a stream of passages that takes the reader along with Harry while he drifts in and out of consciousness, abject from one life to the next. The obvious theme is death and dying, but the home theme is Harrys return to his recent, and his journey to the present. Hemingway uses animal imagery in the story to reflect the dying theme, and to show two distinct sides of Harry, and his liberation from life to death . The story opens with Harry discussing his dying leg and the smell that the infection or gangrene creates. He reflects on the three big birds (vultures) waiting in the horizon Look at them, he said. now is it sight or is it scent that brings them like that? His u se of adjectives to describe the birds and their waiting for him to die projects a feeling of death, and sets the tone for the story, using words such as obscene and shadow and sail to correlate the emergence of the birds with the ascent of death. ...as he looked out previous(prenominal) the shade onto the glare of the plane there were three of the big birds squatted obscenely, while in the sky a dozen more sailed, making quick moving shadows as they passed. His introduction of various animals that are typically associated with death and dying into the story at intervals replicate the passing phases of the death process. Theyve been there since the looked out past the shade onto the glare of the plane there were three of the big birds squatted obs... ...y were out.. The Snows of Kilimanjaro is a powerful story, beautifully written, chronicling one mans journey from life to death. Its a step by step process, with each step brilliantly depicted in a small passing of time. It go u p closer to him still and now he could not speak to it, and when it saw he could not speak it came a little closer, and now he tried to send it away without speaking, but it moved in on him so its weight was all upon his chest, and while it crouched there he could not move, or speak.. At the end of the story the animal emerges again, this time serving as the call to Harrys death. Just then the hyena stopped whimpering in the night and started to make a strange, human, almost crying sound. The woman perceive it and stirred uneasily. Works CitedHemingway, Ernest. The Snows of Kilimanjaro. Baym, et al. 2 1687-1704.

Throwing Aside the Shackles :: Personal Narrative Essay Example

Throwing Aside the Shackles of My Life   In the endless wanderings of social bread and butter comes no direction, no purpose, and a deep, spreading emptiness. Through the thoughts of others there is no innovation, and living the life proscribed and enacted by our descendants is the road to which we die empty, deep in thought(p) deaths, symbolizing nothing. From the society of others spring the thoughts and the actions of those by who the order was created. A man may live his entire life trudging through the drama as either other man does, and never think thoughts of his own, innovative or new.   Yet in a short time nature peels away all that is proscribed, brushes slay the shell that is the life of another, and soon enough a man may find that which is his own amidst the trained actions left behind. Nature is ever renewing, and ever new. in spite of appearance a short time away from the wiles of eternally unaltering, eternally soothing technology, a man may discover tha t from within himself come circumspect thoughts, analyses of life, and conclusions out of reach(predicate) in the endless, pointless trail of society.   For years I wandered through life, away from myself, alike in kind to the man beside whom I worked. In thought, in action, in all that I did I was like the hundreds before me, and the hundreds who will follow. The most original thing I ever thought to do was to flee it all, to strike down aside the shackles of my life, with the knowledge that otherwise in years naught will have deviated from the state which it was in before I left. It was only upon coming, being with and of nature, that I began to realize how meaningless it had been, how my soul had cried out. It was only after my forced half of one hour deep in the heart of nature that I axiom what was coming of my life, and realized that it was nothing.   Like the drops of rain off the petals of a rose are the lives of men away from the pages of the book of life. Each comes and in itself may be beautiful, but it is exactly as the last. Shining dimly in the filtered sun, it drops away and is not remembered, as the next can be anticipated. Soon the rose is saturated, besides the drops continue to come, falling down the predetermined streams, creating nothing new.

Throwing Aside the Shackles :: Personal Narrative Essay Example

Throwing Aside the Shackles of My Life   In the endless wanderings of social life-time comes no direction, no purpose, and a deep, spreading emptiness. Through the thoughts of others there is no innovation, and living the life proscribed and enacted by our descendants is the road to which we die empty, confused deaths, symbolizing nothing. From the society of others spring the thoughts and the actions of those by who the order was created. A man may live his entire life trudging through the drama as all other man does, and never think thoughts of his own, innovative or new.   Yet in a short time nature peels away all that is proscribed, brushes take the shell that is the life of another, and soon enough a man may find that which is his own amidst the trained actions left behind. Nature is ever renewing, and ever new. in spite of appearance a short time away from the wiles of eternally unaltering, eternally soothing technology, a man may discover that from within himsel f come circumspect thoughts, analyses of life, and conclusions unreachable in the endless, pointless trail of society.   For years I wandered through life, away from myself, alike in kind to the man beside whom I worked. In thought, in action, in all that I did I was like the hundreds before me, and the hundreds who will follow. The most original thing I ever thought to do was to flee it all, to transmit aside the shackles of my life, with the knowledge that otherwise in years naught will have deviated from the state which it was in before I left. It was only upon coming, being with and of nature, that I began to realize how meaningless it had been, how my soul had cried out. It was only after my forced half of one hour deep in the heart of nature that I proverb what was coming of my life, and realized that it was nothing.   Like the drops of rain off the petals of a rose are the lives of men away from the pages of the book of life. Each comes and in itself may be beaut iful, but it is exactly as the last. Shining dimly in the filtered sun, it drops away and is not remembered, as the next can be anticipated. Soon the rose is saturated, and the drops continue to come, falling down the predetermined streams, creating nothing new.

Strategic Management and Competitive Advantage

Operations Management, 10e (Heizer/Render)Chapter 2 Operations system in a orbicular Environment1) NAFTA seeks to phase out only stack and tariff barriers among Canada, Mexico, and the get together States. reaction true up Diff 2 outlet A orbiculate take up of trading operations AACSB multicultural and mutation accusatory no LO2) The human beings work Organization has helped to epochally reduce tariffs around the world. dress trustworthy Diff 2 report A orbiculate watch over of operations AACSB multicultural and mixed bag heading no LO3) Production processes argon being dispersed to take expediency of national differences in labor tolls. upshot TRUE Diff 2 issue A orbiculate view of operations AACSB multicultural and variety show objective lens no LO4) NAFTA seeks to phase out all sh ar and tariff barriers between the United States and Asia. closure preposterous Diff 2 subject field A spherical view of operations AACSB multicultural and Diversity a ccusive no LO5) One reason for world-wide operations is to gain changements in the cede chain. retort TRUE Diff 2 point A world(a) view of operations AACSB multicultural and Diversity accusive no LO6) One reason to orbicularize is to learn to improve operations. at ecstasyd to TRUE Diff 1 event A international view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity im in-person no LO7) To attract and retain world(prenominal) talent, and to expand a fruits breeding cycle, are both reasons to globalize. function TRUE Diff 2 topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity object glass no LO8) A product will always be in the akin stage of its product life cycle regardless of the country. resolving FALSE Diff 2 depicted object A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity fair game no LO9) The World Trade Organization helps provide governments and industries around the world with protection from squiffylys that engage in unethical c onduct. closure TRUE Diff 2 motif A global view of operations AACSB Ethical Reasoning accusatory no LO10) Boeings ripening of the 787 Dreamliner is an example of a society obtaining a emulous advantage through product differentiation/innovation. consequence TRUE Diff 1 Topic globose company compose design no LO11) An transcriptions scheme is its termination or rationale for an governings existence. Answer FALSE Diff 1 Topic ontogeny commissions and strategies butt LO2-112) Operations strategies are implemented in the corresponding way in all types of organizations. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies neutral LO2-113) Experience differentiation is an extension of product differentiation, accomplished by using peoples v senses to create an experience rather than simply providing a advantage. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Achieving warring advantage through operations nonsubjective LO2-214) An organizations might to generate unique advanta ges over competitors is central to a successful dodge execution of instrument. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Achieving matched advantage through operations object LO2-215) Low-cost leadership is the ability to distinguish the offerings of the organization in any way that the customer perceives as adding value. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic cristal strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-316) nearly returnss are tangible this factor determines how the ten decisions of operations management are handled differently for goods than for services. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-317) The relative importance of each of the ten operations decisions depends on the ratio of goods and services in an organization. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-318) Decisions that involve what is to be made and what is to be purchased fall under the heading of supply-chain management. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO 2-319) Manufacturing organizations have ten strategic OM decisions, composition service organizations have only eight. Answer FALSE Diff 1 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-320) Errors made within the posture decision area whitethorn overwhelm efficiencies in other areas. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-321) Southwest Airlines amount of money competence is operations. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Strategy growing and executing Objective LO2-422) Key success factors and core competencies are synonyms. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-423) SWOT analytic thinking identifies those activities that make a difference between having and not having a hawkish advantage. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-424) For the greatest chance of success, an organizations operations management system must support the companys schema. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic St rategy development and implementation Objective LO2-425) Key Success Factors are those activities that are key to achieving competitive advantage. Answer TRUE Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-426) A multinational corporation has extensive external agate line involvements. Answer TRUE Diff 1 Topic international operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-527) The multidomestic OM strategy maximizes local responsiveness while achieving a significant cost advantage. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic planetary operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-528) Firms using the global strategy can be thought of as world companies. Answer FALSE Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-529) Which of the pursual statements regarding the Dreamliner 787 is true? A) Boeing has found partners in over a dozen countries. B) The new aircraft incorporates a good range of aerospace technologies. C) The new aircraft uses engines from not one, exactly two manufacturers. D) Boeing will add only 20 to 30 percent of the aircrafts value. E) All of the in a gameyer place are true. Answer E Diff 2 Topic Global company pen Objective no LO30) Boeings new 787 Dreamliner A) is assembled in Washington, D.C. B) uses engines from Japan C) has its fuselage sections built in Australia D) has sum upd faculty from new engine technology E) results from a partnership of about a dozen companies Answer D Diff 2 Topic Global company profile Objective no LO31) Examples of response to the global environment include A) Boeings worldwide sales and production B) Bennetons flexibility in design, production, and distribution C) a Chinese manufacturer, Haier, inception plants in the United States D) Fords partnerships with Volvo and Mazda E) all of the higher up Answer E Diff 1 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective L O2-532) Which of the hobby is an example of globalization of operations strategy? A) Boeings Dreamliner has engines with higher discharge/payload efficiency. B) Fords new auto models have dent-resistant panels. C) A Chinese manufacturer, Haier, now operates plants in the United States. D) Hard Rock Caf provides an experience differentiation at its restaurants. E) All of the above are examples. Answer C Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-533) Cost cutting in international operations can take place because of A) rase taxes and tariffs B) refuse wage scales C) lower indirect labor costs D) less stringent regulations E) all of the above Answer E Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-534) Which of the spare-time activity did the authors not suggest as a reason for globalizing operations? A) reduce costs B) improve the supply chain C) stockholder approval ratings D) attract new ma rkets E) no(prenominal) of the above were suggested. Answer C Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-535) Multinational organizations can shop from country to country and cut costs through A) lower wage scales B) lower indirect labor costs C) less stringent regulations D) lower taxes and tariffs E) all of the above Answer E Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-536) The term maquiladora is most synonymous with A) free trade zones in Mexico B) Chinese forced labor camps C) home-based or cottage industry D) areas that do not meet U.S. standards for workplace goloshty and pollution E) none of the above Answer A Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO37) Which of the pastime is true of maquiladoras? A) They discourage foreign businesses from outsourcing. B) They assess tariffs only on the value-added work done. C) They originated in C hina. D) none of the above E) all of the above Answer B Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations Objective no LO38) Which of the following represent reasons for globalizing operations? A) to gain improvements in the supply chain B) to improve operations C) to expand a products life cycle D) to attract and retain global talent E) all of the above Answer E Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-539) Which of the following does not represent reasons for globalizing operations? A) reduce costs B) improve supply chain C) reduce responsiveness D) attract and retain global talent E) None of the above are valid reasons for globalizing operations. Answer C Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-540) NAFTA seeks to A) replenishment cheap labor in Mexico for expensive labor in the United States B) curb illegal immigration from Mexico to the United States C) phase out all trade and tariff barrie rs between the United States and Mexico D) phase out all trade and tariff barriers between the United States, Canada, and Mexico E) All of the above are NAFTA goals. Answer D Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO41) With reference to cultural and ethical issues, the World Trade Organization has A) succeeded in providing equal protection of intellectual property among nations B) made progress in providing equal protection of intellectual property among nations C) phased out all trade and tariff barriers between the United States and Mexico D) eliminated slave labor and child labor E) played little role in addressing cultural and ethical issues among nations Answer B Diff 3 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Ethical Reasoning Objective no LO42) Which of the following is true about business strategies? A) An organization should stick with its strategy for the life of the business. B) All firms within an industry will adopt the s ame strategy. C) Well defined missions make strategy development much easier. D) Strategies are formulated independently of SWOT analysis. E) Organizational strategies depend on operations strategies. Answer C Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-143) Which of the following activities takes place once the mission has been developed? A) The firm develops alternative or back-up missions in case the original mission fails. B) The running(a) areas develop their functional area strategies. C) The functional areas develop their supporting missions. D) The ten OM decision areas are prioritized. E) Operational tactics are developed. Answer C Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-144) Which of the following statements about organizational missions is false? A) They reflect a companys purpose. B) They indicate what a company intends to contribute to society. C) They are formulated after strategies are known. D) They define a companys reason fo r existence. E) They provide guidance for functional area missions. Answer C Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-145) The impact of strategies on the general direction and elemental character of a company is A) short range B) medium range C) long range D) temporal E) minimal Answer C Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-146) The fundamental purpose of an organizations mission statement is to A) create a good human relations humor in the organization B) define the organizations purpose in society C) define the operational bodily structure of the organization D) generate good public relations for the organization E) define the functional areas required by the organization Answer B Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-147) Which of the following is true? A) Corporate mission is shaped by functional strategies. B) Corporate strategy is shaped by functional strategies. C) Functional strategies are shaped by co rporate strategy. D) External conditions are shaped by corporate mission. E) Functional area missions are merged to become the organizational mission. Answer C Diff 3 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-148) __________ and __________ are to differentiation competitive advantages as __________ and __________ are to response competitive advantages. (*See figure 2.4a in the textual matterbook) A) Human Resources, layout scheduling, alimentation B) Product, lumber hole, process C) Quality, sustentation inscription, scheduling D) Product, supply chain layout, tonicity E) Product, quality maintenance, scheduling Answer E Diff 3 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-249) Which of the following is least likely to be a Cost Leadership competitive advantage? A) low overhead B) effective mental ability use C) strain management D) broad product line E) mass production Answer D Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operati ons Objective LO2-250) According to the authors, which of the following strategic concepts allow firms to contact their missions? A) productivity, efficiency, and quality leadership B) differentiation, cost leadership, and quick response C) differentiation, quality leadership, and quick response D) distinctive competency, cost leadership, and experience E) differentiation, distinctive competency, quality leadership, and capacity Answer B Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-251) A firm can effectively use its operations function to yield competitive advantage through all of the following except A) customization of the product B) setting equipment employ goals below the industry average C) speed of delivery D) constant innovation of new products E) maintaining a variety of product options Answer B Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-252) Which of the following has progressed the furthest along its pr oduct life cycle? A) drive-thru restaurants B) Boeing 787 C) iPods D) Twitter E) Xbox 360 Answer A Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective no LO53) The ability of an organization to produce goods or services that have to a greater extent or less uniqueness in their characteristics is A) mass production B) time-based competition C) competing on productivity D) competing on flexibility E) competing on differentiation Answer E Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-254) Which of the following has made the least progress along its product life cycle? A) drive-thru restaurants B) Boeing 787 C) iPods D) Twitter E) Xbox 360 Answer D Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective no LO55) A strategy is a(n) A) set of opportunities in the marketplace B) broad statement of purpose C) trick utilise to test various product line options D) plan for cost reduction E) action plan to achieve the mission Answer E Diff 2 Topic Achieving com petitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-256) Which of the following statements stovepipe characterizes delivery reliability? A) a company that always delivers on the same day of the week B) a company that always delivers at the promised time C) a company that delivers more frequently than its competitors D) a company that delivers agile than its competitors E) a company that has a computerized delivery scheduling system Answer B Diff 3 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-257) Which of the following is an example of competing on the basis of differentiation? A) A firm manufactures its product with less raw material waste than its competitors do. B) A firms products are introduced into the market faster than its competitors products are. C) A firms distribution network routinely delivers its product on time. D) A firm offers more current products than its competitors do. E) A firm advertises more than its competitors do. Answer D Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-258) The ability of an organization to produce services that, by utilizing the consumers five senses, have some uniqueness in their characteristics is A) mass production B) time-based competition C) differentiation D) flexible response E) experience differentiation Answer E Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-259) Which of the following best describes experience differentiation? A) immerses consumers in the delivery of a service B) uses peoples five senses to enhance the service C) complements physical elements with visual and sound elements D) consumers may become active participants in the product or service E) All of the above are elements of experience differentiation. Answer E Diff 1 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-260) Experience Differentiation A) isolates the consumer from the delivery of a service B) is an extension of pr oduct differentiation in the service sector C) uses only the consumers senses of vision and sound D) keeps consumers from becoming active participants in the service E) is the same as product differentiation, but applied in the service sector Answer B Diff 1 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-261) Which of the following is the best example of competing on affordable leadership? A) A firm produces its product with less raw material waste than its competitors. B) A firm offers more reliable products than its competitors. C) A firms products are introduced into the market faster than its competitors products. D) A firms research and development department generates many an(prenominal) ideas for new products. E) A firm advertises more than its competitors. Answer A Diff 3 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-262) Franz Colruyt has achieved low-priced leadership through A) Spartan headquarters B) absence of voice s end off C) low-cost facilities D) no background music E) all of the above Answer E Diff 1 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-263) Franz Colruyt has achieved low-cost leadership through A) effective use of voice mail B) plastic, not paper, shopping bags C) background music that subtly encourages shoppers to buy more D) converting factories, garages, and theaters into retail outlets E) use of the Euro, not the currency of each European country Answer D Diff 1 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-264) Which of the following is an example of competing on quick response? A) A firm produces its product with less raw material waste than its competitors. B) A firm offers more reliable products than its competitors. C) A firms products are introduced into the market faster than its competitors products. D) A firms research and development department generates many ideas for new products. E) A firm advertises more than its competitors. Answer C Diff 3 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-265) Costs, quality, and human resource decisions interact strongly with the __________ decision. A) layout design B) process and capacity design C) supply chain management D) goods and service design E) All of the above are correct. Answer D Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-366) Which of the following influences layout design? A) inventory requirements B) capacity needs C) personnel levels D) technology decisions E) All of the above influence layout decisions. Answer E Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-367) Response-based competitive advantage can be A) flexible response B) reliable response C) quick response D) all of the above E) none of the above Answer D Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-368) Which of the following is not an operations strategic decision? A) maintenance B) price C) layout design D) quality E) inventory Answer B Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-369) Which of the following OM strategic decisions pertains to sensible location of processes and materials in relation to each other? A) layout design B) goods and service design C) supply chain management D) inventory E) scheduling Answer A Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-370) Which of these companies is most apt to have quality standards that are relatively subjective? A) Chrysler B) Dell Computer C) Sanyo Electronics D) Harvard University E) Whirlpool Answer D Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-371) Which of the following will more likely locate near their customers? A) an automobile manufacturer B) an atomic number 13 manufacturer C) an insurance company headquarters D) a medical clinic E) All of the above will tend to locate near their customers. Answer D Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-372) Which of the following statements concerning the operations m anagement decision is relevant to services? A) There are many objective quality standards. B) The customer is not involved in most of the process. C) The work forces technical skills are very outstanding. D) Labor standards vary depending on customer requirements. E) Ability to inventory may allow the leveling of the output rates. Answer D Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-373) Which of these organizations is likely to have the most important inventory decisions? A) a marketing research firm B) a lobbying agency C) a management consulting firm D) an aluminum manufacturer E) a law firm Answer D Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-374) Before establishing and implementing strategy, a resources view would ensure that which of the following resources are available A) pecuniary B) physical C) human D) technological E) all of the above Answer E Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-475) Porters Five Forces computer simulation is used to evaluate competition based on which 5 aspects? A) research and development, cost, legal regulations, suppliers, customers B) immediate rivals, Potential entrants, customers, suppliers, and substitute products C) potential entrants, customers, suppliers, legal regulations, and cost D) immediate rivals, potential entrants, cost, substitute products, and legal regulations E) none of the above Answer B Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-476) Porters Five Forces simulate contains which of the following? A) immediate rivals B) potential entrants C) customers D) suppliers E) all of the Above Answer E Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-477) Value-chain analysis is used to identify activities that represent, or can develop into, the core competencies of a business. Who introduced this concept? A) Ford B) Toyota C) Porter D) Smith E) None of the above Answer C Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-478) Value-chain analysi s can be used to determine if a business is adding unique value in which of the following areas? A) product research B) human resources C) process innovation D) quality management E) all of the above Answer E Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-479) Which of the following is not part of value-chain analysis? A) product research B) quality management C) supply-chain management D) marketing E) human resources Answer D Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-480) Which of the following environmental factors has not been a factor in Microsofts changing strategy? A) Google B) security issues C) faster processors D) the Internet E) none of the above Answer E Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-481) Standardization is an suppress strategy in which stage of the product life cycle? A) introduction B) issue C) maturity D) decline E) retirement Answer C Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-482) Cost minimization i s an appropriate strategy in which stage of the product life cycle? A) introduction B) growth C) maturity D) decline E) retirement Answer D Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-483) The stage in the product life cycle at which it is a suffering time to change quality is A) introduction B) growth C) maturity D) decline E) incubation Answer C Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-484) Which of the following changes does not result in strategy changes? A) change in the companys financial situation B) a companys adoption of new technology C) change in the product life cycle D) change in the competitive environment E) change in descent scheduling techniques Answer E Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-4 1985) Which of the following statements is most correct? A) KSFs are oftentimes necessary, but not sufficient for competitive advantage. B) KSFs are often sufficient, but not necessary for competitive advantage. C) KSFs are ne ither necessary nor sufficient for competitive advantage. D) KSFs are both necessary and sufficient for competitive advantage. E) None of the above statements is correct. Answer A Diff 3 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-486) Given the position of the iPod in the growth stage of its life cycle, which of the following OM Strategy/Issues should the makers of iPods be least concerned with at the current time? A) prodigy B) cost cutting C) increasing capacity D) product and process reliability E) enhancing distribution Answer B Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-487) Which of these organizations is likely to have the most complex inventory decisions? A) a marketing research firm B) a stock brokerage firm C) a management consulting firm D) a computer manufacturing company E) a high school Answer D Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-488) The three steps of the operations managers job, in order, are A) develop the strategy, establish the organizational structure, find the mature staff B) develop the strategy, find the right staff, establish the organizational structure C) find the right staff, establish the organizational structure, develop the strategy D) find the right staff, develop the strategy, establish the organizational structure E) establish the organizational structure, find the right staff, develop the strategy Answer A Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-489) When developing the operations strategy for a new manufacturing organization, one of the most important considerations is that it A) requires minimal gravid investment B) utilizes as much automation as manageable C) utilizes an equal balance of labor and automation D) supports the overall competitive strategy of the company E) none of the above Answer D Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-490) Which of the international operations strategies involves high c ost reductions and high local responsiveness? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) international strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer C Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-591) Which of the international operations strategies involves low cost reductions and low local responsiveness? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer A Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-592) Which of the international operations strategies uses import/export or licensing of animate products? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer A Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-593) Which of the international operations strategies uses t he existing domestic model globally? A) international strategy B) global strategy C) transnational strategy D) multidomestic strategy E) none of the above Answer D Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-594) The acronym MNC stands for A) Mexican National Committee (for international trade) B) Maquiladora Negates Competition C) Maytag-Nestl Corporation D) Multinational Corporation E) none of the above Answer D Diff 1 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-595) Caterpillar and Texas Instruments are two firms that have benefited from the use of A) the multidomestic strategy option. B) the multinational corporation strategy. C) the transnational strategy option. D) the maquiladora system in Europe. E) the global strategy option. Answer E Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-596) Which of the following are examples of transn ational firms? A) Nestl B) Asea Brown Boveri C) Reuters D) Citicorp E) All of the above are transnationals. Answer E Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-597) Boeing found its Dreamliner 787 partners in __________ countries. Answer over a dozen Diff 1 Topic Global company profile AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO98) __________ are areas located along the U.S.-Mexico border in which factories receive preferential tariff treatment. Answer Maquiladoras Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO99) __________ is a free trade agreement among Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Answer NAFTANorth American assuage Trade Agreement Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO100) __________ and __________ are two issues where significant cultural differences are spacious and progress toward global uniformity has been slow . Answer Bribery, protection of intellectual property Diff 1 Topic Global company profile AACSB Ethical Reasoning Objective no LO101) An organization that has worked to achieve global uniformity in cultural and ethical issues such as bribery, child labor, and environmental regulations is __________. Answer the World Trade Organization Diff 1 Topic Global company profile AACSB Ethical Reasoning Objective no LO102) In goods-producing organizations, __________,__________, and __________ may be inventoried. Answer raw materials, work-in-process, finished goods Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-3103) Strategy is not static, but dynamic because of changes in the __________ and __________. Answer organization, environment Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-1104) __________ is the stage in product life cycle at which it is a poor time to change quality. Answer Maturity Diff 2 Topic Issues in operations strategy Objective LO2-4105) The __________ is how an organization expects to achieve its missions and goals. Answer strategy Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-1106) The creation of a unique advantage over competitors is called a __________. Answer competitive advantage Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-2107) Service organizations can immerse the consumer in the service, or have the consumer become a participant in the service, as they practice __________. Answer experience differentiation Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-2108) Competitive advantage in operations can be achieved by __________, __________, and/or __________. Answer differentiation, low cost, response Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-2109) A(n) __________ is a firm that has extensive involvement in international business, owning or controlling facilities in more than one country. Answer MNCmultinational c orporation Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-5110) The __________ strategy utilizes a standardized product across countries. Answer global Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-5 24111) The __________ strategy uses exports and licenses to penetrate globally. Answer international Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-5112) The __________ strategy uses subsidiaries, franchises, or joint ventures with substantial independence. Answer multidomestic Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-5113) The __________ strategy describes a condition in which material, people, and ideas cross or transgress national boundaries. Answer transnational Diff 2 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-5114) Identify five countri es from which Boeings 787 Dreamliner has suppliers. Answer France, Germany, UK, Italy, Japan, China, South Korea, Sweden, U.S. Diff 1 Topic Global company profile AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO115) Identify five parts which Boeings 787 Dreamliner gets from global suppliers match each part with the country that supplies it. Answer Francelanding gear, Germanyinterior lighting, UKfuel pumps or electronics, Italypart of fuselage or horizontal stabilizer, Japanwing box or hydraulic actuators, Chinarudder or general parts, South Koreawingtips, Swedencargo and get to doors, U.S.GE engines Diff 2 Topic Global company profile AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO116) How can global operations improve the supply chain? Answer The supply chain can often be improved by locating facilities in countries where unique resources exist. Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO117) How do global operations attract new ma rkets? Answer Since international operations require local interaction with customers, suppliers, and other competitive businesses, international firms inevitably learn about unique opportunities for new products and services. Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO118) State two examples of cultural and ethical issues that face operations managers in a global environment. Answer Student responses will vary, but there are s ever soal issues on which there are wide differences from country to country, culture to culture. Among those listed in the text are bribery, child labor, slave labor, and intellectual property rights. Students may bring forward from an earlier chapter issues such as environmental regulation or safe work environment, and may raise issues such as product safety. Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Ethical Reasoning Objective no LO119) What is the difference between a firms mission and its strategy? Answ er A firms mission is its purpose or rationale for an organizations existence, whereas a firms strategy is how it expects to achieve its mission and goals. Diff 2 Topic Developing missions and strategies Objective LO2-1120) Since the early 1990s, residents in a number of developing countries have overcome culture, religious, ethnic, and political productivity barriers. These fade barriers coupled with simultaneous advances in technology, reliable shipping, and cheap communication have all led to the growth of what three things? Answer 1. World trade. 2. Global capital markets. 3. International movement of people. Diff 2 Topic A global view of operations AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective no LO121) Provide an example of an organization that achieves competitive advantage through experience differentiation. Explain. Answer Answers will vary, but Disney and Hard Rock Caf are illustrated in the text. Competing on experience differentiation implies providing uniqueness to your service offering through immersion of the consumer into the service, with visual or sound elements to turn the service into an experience. Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-2122) With regard to the scheduling decision, how are goods-producing organizations different from service companies? Discuss. Answer Goods-producing companies the ability to inventory may allow leveling the output rates service companies primarily concerned with meeting the customers immediate schedule. Diff 3 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-3123) How do goods and services differ with regard to handling the quality decision? Answer There are many objective quality standards for goods, whereas there are many subjective quality standards for services. Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-3124) What is the difference between goods and services in terms of their location selection? Answer Manufacturers of goods may need to be located reason out to raw materials, or labor force. Services, on the other hand, typically are located close to the customer. Diff 2 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions Objective LO2-3125) How has Franz Colruyt achieved low-cost leadership? List three specific examples and describe each briefly. Answer Several methods are listed in the text. Among these are no shopping bags, dim lighting, no voice mail, conversion of older buildings, Spartan offices. Diff 2 Topic Achieving competitive advantage through operations Objective LO2-2126) Define core competencies. Answer A set of skills, talents, and activities that a firm does particularly well. Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-4127) For what type of organization might the location decision area be the least important of its ten decision areas? For what type of organization might the location decision be the most important of the ten decision areas? Discuss augment your response with examples. Answer The relationship be tween the organization and its suppliers or its customers is key. If that relationship is very weak (as in no dose costs, or customers can reach the firm from any location), location diminishes in importance. If that relationship is strong (uniqueness of site, high transportation costs, customers will not travel far) location increases in importance. Least examples Telemarketing firm, tax help-line, Internet sales. Most examples gold mine, oil well, ski resort. Diff 3 Topic Ten strategic OM decisions AACSB Reflective cerebration Objective LO2-3128) What is SWOT analysis? List its four elements and describe its purpose. Answer The four elements of SWOT are strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Its purpose is to maximize opportunities and minimize threats in the environment, while maximizing the advantages of the organizations strengths and minimizing the weaknesses. Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-1129) Are strategies static or dynami c? What are the forces that lead to this result? Answer Strategies should be dynamic because of changes within the organization and changes in the environment. Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-1130) Identify and explain the four basic global operations strategies. Give an example of each strategy. Answer The multidomestic strategy decentralizes operating decisions to each country to enhance local responsiveness. The primary example from the standard is McDonalds. The global strategy centralizes operating decisions, with headquarters coordinating the standardization and learning between facilities. The textbook names Texas Instruments and Caterpillar. The international strategy uses exports and licenses to penetrate the global markets. Students may cite Pier One, World Market, or any wine shop class. The transnational strategy exploits the economies of scale and learning, as well as pressure for responsiveness, by recognizing that core competence d oes not reside in just the home country, but can exist anywhere in the organization. Examples from the textbook include Bertelsmann, Reuters and Nestl. Diff 3 Topic Global operations strategy options AACSB Multicultural and Diversity Objective LO2-5131) Nike is the worlds largest athletic brand. Its innovative and broad product line helps drive sales, however a large majority of those sales are in the footwear business. Most of Nikes goods are produced overseas in low-cost factories and then imported to the final market. Nike currently has many of the top U.S. athletes under contract (Michael Jordon, Tiger Woods, Dwayne Wade) but international sales are still small in emerging markets. However, many competitors have essay to copy Nikes business model (high-value branded products manufactured at low-cost), including Adidas and Reebok, while many retailers have attempted to pass on the low-cost pressure of retail consumers. Perform a SWOT analysis for Nike. Answer Strengths- Innovati ve products, athletes under contract Weakness- Much of revenue is from footwear, eroding market share could cost Nike its gainfulness Opportunities- Sales can be increased in emerging markets using well-known athletes, broad product line can be expanded into high profit sectors (jewelry, sunglasses, golf, etc) Threats- International business makes Nike vulnerable to currency changes, low-cost pressure from retailers can decrease profit per item, competition could erode existing market share. Athletes personal lives could weaken Nikes reputation. Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-4132) Starbucks is one of the best known javahouse chains in the world. Each store sells a variety of innovative products to complement the array of coffee choices available. However, 75% of current stores are located in the United States and the expensive nature of the coffee leaves Starbucks vulnerable to changes in consumer spending behavior (such as recessions). Recentl y Starbucks has begun initiatives to sell its specialty coffee beans for home use, presenting a chance for a large increase in revenue and diversification. However, Starbucks faces fierce competition seeking a piece of its lucrative market share and the threat of consumer behavior changes, given its reputation rides on a singular product. Perform a SWOT analysis for Starbucks. Answer Strengths- heights profit specialty coffee, well known brand image Weakness- Most stores located in U.S., most profits come from coffee (both are lack of diversification) Opportunities- Emerging market in coffee beans for home use, chance for global expansion Threats- Intense competition, consumer behavior changes (less spending during a recession on its luxury coffee, change in beverage preferences) Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-4133) Perform a SWOT analysis of Boeings 787 Dreamliner using the entropy presented within the text. Answer Strengths- Technological adva nces (8% increase in fuel efficiency, electronic maintenance monitoring) Weaknesses- Diverse suppliers and assembly locations leave Boeing vulnerable to currency exchange rates and make quality control difficult Opportunities- one of fastest-selling commercial jets ever gives Boeing a chance to increase market share, Boeing can parlay its use of diverse supplier locations into diversifying customer base Threats- competition from Airbus, divestment of the manufacture process risk of infections losing company trade secrets (competitive advantage) Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-4134) Perform a SWOT analysis of Hard Rock Caf, using the information presented within Chapters 1 and 2 of the text. Answer Strengths- Hard Rocks unique coupling of an experience with its menu gives it a competitive advantage, diverse portfolio of stores in 40 countries lowers risk Weaknesses-Hard Rock is known exclusively for its experience, this one-dimensional competitive advantage presents high risk Opportunities- New experience types at restaurants (Blues, Hip-Hop, etc themes), addition of new stores to the existing 120+ stores Threats- Hard Rocks exclusive Rock n Roll theme leaves it vulnerable to changes in consumer music preferences, competition in the restaurant business is very knockout Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-4135) Perform a SWOT analysis for Franz Colruyt, using the information presented within the text. Answer Strengths- High profit margin of 6.5% from its extreme low-cost competitive advantage Weaknesses- Lack of bagging, in-store music, dim lighting, and lack of aesthetic in-store appeal all limit potential customer base. Opportunities- Franz Colruyt only operates 160 stores so there is opportunity for global expansion Threats- High profit margin might encourage competition to copy Franz Colruyts low-cost competitive advantage, eroding it. Changes in consumer behavior (increased prosperity) migh t decrease customers interested in only a low-cost alternative. Diff 2 Topic Strategy development and implementation Objective LO2-4

Stresemann Exam Question Answers

Describe the key features of the Stresemann foreign policy in the years 1923-1929 (6 marks). In 1924 Stresemann and Charles G. Dawes created the Dawes Plan. The Dawes Plan reduced annual holdfast wagements to an dedicate competent amount. It was also agreed that American Banks would invest in German industry. This also improved the trust the allies had in Germany, as they were reassured that they would see their fixity payments. In 1925 Stresemann signed the Locarno Pact. This was a treaty between Germany, Britain, France, Italy and Belgium.The Pact consisted of Germany agreeing to keep its border with France and Belgium if Allied troops left the Rhineland and France promised peace. This opened talks rough Germany joining the League of Nations, as the Allied troops began to see Germany as a friend instead of an enemy. In 1929 Stresemann signed the Young Plan. This reduced the sum up reparations debt to ? 2 billion. Also Germany was given a encourage 59 years to pay. This help ed Germanys debt problems, as they didnt have the worry of not being able to afford the annual reparation payments.Describe the key features of the Dawes plan (6 marks). In 1924 The Dawes Plan was created between Stresemann and Charles G. Dawes, an American Banker. sensation feature of The Dawes Plan was that annual reparation payments that Germany had to pay were reduced to an affordable amount. This meant that there would be less chance of an incident, like the occupation of the Ruhr, would happen again as the annual payments were much more possible to Germanys financial state. Another feature of The Dawes Plan was that American banks would invest in German industry.This meant that Germany could rebuild their industry, therefore increasing employments, which lead to increased profits. One with child(p) feature of The Dawes Plan was that it relied heavily on American banks. This would prove to be a bad idea after the Wall Street friction as America called in all their foreign l oans, devastating Germanys economy once again. Explain the effects of the commodious Depression in Germany (8 marks). The Great Depression led to mass unemployment in Germany. In 1928 fewer than one million good deal were unemployed by 1932 over six million people were unemployed.This meant that an increasing number of people were living in poverty. Because people were unemployed, they had less money to spend on products made in Germany. This further damaged Germanys industry, leading to mass debt and further unemployment. The Great Depression also led to people voting for extreme political parties, in hope that they could drag Germany bug surface of the state that they were in. Most of these people were unemployed citizens, as they were the most desperate. This later led to Hitlers rise into power. Was inflation the worst problem that the Weimar Republic go about in the years 1919-1928?Explain your answers. You may use this information to help you (16 marks). * Weaknesses in t he constitution. * Uprising against the Government. * Hyperinflation. * The effects of WW1. One problem the Weimar Republic faced was the lofty reparation payments they had to make. These reparation payments send Germany into abundant debt, leading to mass poverty and unemployment. I think this is one of the worst problems Weimar faced, as not only was it bad in itself, but it also lead to many other problems, such as hyperinflation and industrial problems.The Treaty of Versailles also meant that Germany lost lots of land- leading to further debt. This lead to further debt in Germany as they lost many resources which made them money. They had lost 50% of their iron resources and 15% of their coal resources- which were their main means of earning money. I think this was important as it contributed to all the other problems they faced, such as debt and hyperinflation. Another problem the Weimar Republic faced was that extreme political parties were attempting uprisings against the g overnment.In 1919 the Spartacist League assay to overthrow the government and have a communist government instead, by taking over key buildings such as newspaper offices, set up workers and soldiers soviets and demonstrated with 100,000 supporters in Berlin. In 1920the Kapp Putsch took place. They also wanted to overthrow the current German government, but they wanted to bring back Germanys antecedent leader, the Kaiser. They attempted an uprising by taking over Berlin. They were successful, but the German government ordered a general strike.The gas, electricity, water and transport in Berlin were stopped, as no-body was producing them, so they fled Berlin. The constant threat of uprisings led to an unstable government, which the public didnt trust. Because the public didnt trust the government, they started to vote for extremist parties, in hope that they would be able to improve the state of Germany. This was a large issue, as it showed, not only to the public, but also other co untries that Germany was unstable and untrustworthy. Hyperinflation was also a massive problem Weimar faced.When Weimar failed to pay the reparation payment in January 1923, French and Belgian troops marched into the Ruhr, an industrial area with lots of coal, iron, make and factories. France and Belgium began to take what was owed to them in coal, steel and iron. The German government ordered its workers in the Ruhr to go on strike and not to help the soldiers remove the goods from the country (passive resistance). But because the government ordered the workers to go on strike they had to pay them, but they had no moneySo they printed more money, reducing the worth of money. As the worth of money went down, the price of goods went up. This speech rhythm continued until people were being paid daily by the wheelbarrow full, and spending their money in their lunch breaks, before the prices rose again This was a massive problem in Weimar as the country was already in poverty, due to the reparation payments they had to pay, but prices were still rising. This meant people couldnt even afford essential goods- leading to further poverty.I dont agree that hyperinflation was the worst problem that the Weimar Republic faced. Although it was a huge problem, I think that debt- due to reparation payments- was the worst problem as it lead to all the other problems they faced. Draw designs and then final designs Draw chosen design, with a 1. 5cm air allowance, on secernate and cross paper and cut out. Include grain line and how many need to be cut for 1 pillow Draw half of the design, with 1. 5cm seam allowance, on A3 paper. Add on 5cm for fold over and 2cm for seam. Cut out.Include grain line and how many need to be cut for 1 pillow. Cut stuff and nonsense using guides. fix front material together with wadding in between, for quilting. Cut wings, feathers and eyes out of different materials. Sew on feathers made out of polar fleece, with a straight stitch. Applique on wings using bond-a-web. Applique on eyes using bond-a-web. Sew buttons on for eyes Sew on nose with a straight stitch. Sew 2cm seam on straight edge of the two back pieces. Sew the back pieces onto the front piece, so that they overlap by 5cm.

Lord of the Flies †Leadership Essay

The ideas of Leadership and human nature bay window best be related to an up and coming Hollywood star. They start by every innocent but the fame, fortune, and billet catch up with them. It changes them, having people look up to you and knowing that they leave alone follow everything they do allows you to understand the power that you have. They piece of ass end up going out of understand and it will change them for the worst. The ability to have this kind of power, for Jack, turns him into being obsessive with being the loss leader of the tribe. When he does not win it makes him really jealous of Ralph.He makes everyone turn on Ralph to become the unofficial leader. The power drives him crazy and starts to calendar method on kids on the island for no apparent movement, it even escalades to killing them. It is human nature to have the desire for power, to lead other people, and control them, even though we dont look for to the greed can overpower us to do the wrong choices . The human nature of motivationing power can come for several different reasons such as competition to be the leader of the tribe, having too overmuch desire to be a leader, and when you are neglected by the others.A major reason there was greed to have power, in ennoble of the Flies, is because there was competition in who would be it. Jack thought he was a shoe-in to be leader since he had the choir to back him up. Instead, Ralph was chosen over Jack. Jack was extremely angry that he lost and believed he deserved to be the leader. It was even embarassing to him because Ralph, who beat him out for being the leader, wasnt even interested in winning. Jack became obsessed in having power over the tribe that he was ready to go great lengths to get what he wanted.He made some boys on the island feel like outsiders in order to get the tribe on his side. This is an typesetters case why competition is a main reason why there was a greed to have power. A large factor in Lord of the Flies, especially in Jack, is to have too much desire to be leader. When Jack used to live back in England he went to boarding school. In those days boarding schools were not the greatest places. He had boundaries on where he could go, what he could do and who he could talk too.Virtually, everyday of his breeding is scheduled. Once acquire n this island he was free, he was free to do whatever he wanted. Because he was being confined to such a boring and routine life he wanted more than freedom. He wanted to control the freedom of others, he wanted to be leader. In his mind he was trying to upraise he was responsible and could handle it, but what he did was plain cruelty and evil. You get a big impression that Jack never wants to leave this island. This is video display you that Jack you that Jack is one of the first to lose contact with civilization, its human nature to want power but he is going mad.A major key for Ralph to have power is because he was starting to get neglected by the others. At first Ralph wasnt to fond in being chosen to be leader but knew he had some ideas on how they could get off the island. At first everyone listened to him and they were all excited to work. Then they wanted to fly the coop Ralph was okay with this because they could use some meat. This was a huge mistake, all they wanted to do was hunt. Ralph held assemblies to get them under control because no one was building shelters or working on the fire, they had lost all discipline The hunters were not happy what Ralph was telling him.The hunters were starting to favor the leader of the hunters Jack, because what he was telling seemed to be much more appealing to them. Jack then saw his chance to become the leader they were all frusterated at Ralph so the hunters all got together and moved out to a secluded part of the island. Those who were left behind, including Jack, were left with next to nothing. Ralph finally realized he was the lows of the lows, he was at Piggys leve l. This made him want some recognition to get back the status he once had so he joined Ralph.Once again its human nature that if you cant beat them you join them. Ralph joined the group knowing it was wrong and through joining even lost contact with civilization. He want the power he once had as lesder but becomes a savage through it. Leadership, human nature and the effects it has is shown throughout the novel Lord Of The Flies. How much control we have over our human can make a big difference on our personality and how we react to different confrontations. The chance of having power will come at different times in our life we must choose the time we take them.

The Da Vinci Code Chapter 81-83

CHAPTER 81The Hawker is on final approach.Simon Edwards Executive Services Officer at Biggin Hill Airport paced the verify tower, squinting nervously at the rain-drenched runway. He never appreciated be awoken early on a Saturday morning, but it was particularly distasteful that he had been identifyed in to oversee the discipline of one of his or so lucrative clients. Sir Leigh Teabing paid Biggin Hill non only for a private hangar but a per landing fee for his frequent arrivals and departures. Usu in ally, the airfield had advance warning of his schedule and was able to follow a strict protocol for his arrival. Teabing liked things vindicatory so. The custom-built puma stretch limousine that he kept in his hangar was to be fully gassed, polished, and the days London Times laid protrude on the back seat. A customs scoreicial was to be postponement for the s sire at the hangar to expedite the existencedatory documentation and luggage check. Occasionally, customs agents accepted large tips from Teabing in exchange for turning a blind eye to the transport of harmless organics mostly luxury foods French escargots, a particularly ripe unprocessed Roquefort, received fruits. Many customs laws were absurd, anyway, and if Biggin Hill didnt accommodate its clients, certainly competing airfields would. Teabing was provided with what he wanted here at Biggin Hill, and the employees reaped the benefits.Edwardss nerves snarl frayed at present as he watched the jet climax in. He wondered if Teabings penchant for spreading the wealth had gotten him in trouble somehow the French authorities seemed very intent on containing him. Edwards had not yet been told what the charges were, but they were obviously serious. At the French authorities request, Kent police had ordered the Biggin Hill air traffic controller to radio the Hawkers pilot and order him presently to the terminal rather than to the clients hangar. The pilot had agreed, app arntly believing the far-fetched story of a gas leak.Though the British police did not generally carry weapons, the gravity of the situation had brought off an armed response team. Now, eight policemen with handguns stood just inside the terminal building, awaiting the moment when the planes engines powered down. The instant this happened, a runway attendant would rig safety wedges downstairs the tires so the plane could no coarseer move. Then the police would step into view and hold the occupants at bay until the French police arrived to handle the situation.The Hawker was low in the sky now, skimming the treetops to their right. Simon Edwards went downstairs to watch the landing from tarmac level. The Kent police were poised, just out of sight, and the maintenance military personnel waited with his wedges. Out on the runway, the Hawkers nose tipped up, and the tires touched down in a puff of smoke. The plane settled in for deceleration, streaking from right to left in front of the terminal, its white hull glistening in the wet weather. exactly rather than braking and turning into the terminal, the jet coasted calmly past the access lane and go on on toward Teabings hangar in the distance.All the police spun and stared at Edwards. I thought you said the pilot agreed to come to the terminalEdwards was bewildered. He didSeconds later, Edwards instal himself wedged in a police car racing across the tarmac toward the distant hangar. The convoy of police was still a good cardinal hundred yards outside as Teabings Hawker taxied calmly into the private hangar and disappeared. When the cars finally arrived and skidded to a stop outside the gaping hangar doorsill, the police poured out, guns drawn. Edwards jumped out too.The noise was deafening.The Hawkers engines were still roaring as the jet finished its usual rotation inside the hangar, positioning itself nose-out in preparation for later departure. As the plane completed its 180-degreeturn and rolled toward the front of the hangar, Edwards could see the pilots face, which visualizeably catched surprised and fearful to see the barricade of police cars.The pilot brought the plane to a final stop, and powered down the engines. The police streamed in, taking up positions most the jet. Edwards joined the Kent chief inspector, who moved warily toward the hatch. by and by several seconds, the fuselage door popped turn out.Leigh Teabing appeared in the doorway as the planes electronic stairs smoothly dropped down. Ashe gazed out at the sea of weapons aimed at him, he propped himself on his crutches and scratched his head. Simon, did I win the policemens lottery while I was away? He sounded more bewildered than concerned.Simon Edwards stepped forward, swallowing the frog in his throat. Good morning, sir. I apologize for the confusion. Weve had a gas leak and your pilot said he was coming to the terminal.Yes, yes, thoroughly, I told him to come here instead. Im late for an appointment. I pay for this hang ar, and this rubbish well-nigh avoiding a gas leak sounded overcautious.Im appalled your arrival has taken us a bit off guard, sir.I sack out. Im off my schedule, I am. Between you and me, the new medication drops me the tinkles. Thought Id come over for a tune-up.The policemen all change looks. Edwards winced. Very good, sir.Sir, the Kent chief inspector said, stepping forward. I need to ask you to deterrent onboard for another one-half hour or so.Teabing looked unamused as he hobbled down the stairs. Im afraid that is impossible. I have a medical appointment. He reached the tarmac. I abidenot afford to miss it.The chief inspector repositioned himself to block Teabings progress away from the plane. I am here at the orders of the French Judicial Police. They claim you are transporting fugitives from the law on this plane.Teabing stared at the chief inspector a long moment, and because dampen out laughing. Is this one of those hidden camera programs? Jolly goodThe chief inspe ctor never flinched. This is serious, sir. The French police claim you also may have a hostage onboard.Teabings pieceretainer Remy appeared in the doorway at the top of the stairs. I feel like a hostage working for Sir Leigh, but he assures me I am free to go. Remy checked his watch. Master, we really are running late. He nodded toward the Jaguar stretch limousine in the far corner of the hangar. The enormous automobile was ebony with smoked glass and whitewall tires. Ill bring the car. Remy started down the stairs.Im afraid we cannot let you leave, the chief inspector said. Please return to your aircraft. Both of you. Representatives from the French police go away be landing shortly.Teabing looked now toward Simon Edwards. Simon, for heavens sake, this is ridiculous We dont have anyone else on board. Just the usual Remy, our pilot, and myself. Perhaps you could act as an intermediary? Go have a look onboard, and verify that the plane is empty. Edwards knew he was trapped. Yes, sir. I can have a look. The devil you en faith the Kent chief inspector declared, apparently knowing equal about(predicate) executive airfields to suspect Simon Edwards strength well lie about the planes occupants in an effort to keep Teabings business at Biggin Hill. I will look myself.Teabing move his head. No you wont, Inspector. This is private property and until you have a search warrant, you will stay off my plane. I am offering you a sightly option here. Mr. Edwards can perform the inspection.No deal.Teabings demeanor turned frosty. Inspector, Im afraid I dont have time to indulge in your games. Im late, and Im leaving. If it is that important to you to stop me, youll just have to shoot me. With that, Teabing and Remy walked around the chief inspector and headed across the hangar toward the parked limousine.The Kent chief inspector felt only distaste for Leigh Teabing as the man hobbled around him in defiance. Men of privi complicatione always felt like they were above the law.They are not.The chief inspector turned and aimed at Teabings back. Stop I will fireGo ahead, Teabing said without breaking stride or glancing back. My lawyers will fricassee your testicles for breakfast. And if you dare board my plane without a warrant, your spleen will follow.No stranger to power plays, the chief inspector was unimpressed. Technically, Teabing was correct and the police needed a warrant to board his jet, but because the flight had originated in France, and because the tidy Bezu Fache had given his authority, the Kent chief inspector felt certain his career would be far better served by finding out what it was on this plane that Teabing seemed so intent on concealing.Stop them, the inspector ordered. Im searching the plane.His men raced over, guns leveled, and physically blocked Teabing and his servant from reaching the limousine.Now Teabing turned. Inspector, this is your last warning. Do not purge think of boarding that plane. You will regret it.Ignori ng the threat, the chief inspector gripped his sidearm and marched up the planes gangway. Arriving at the hatch, he peered inside. later a moment, he stepped into the cabin. What the devil?With the expulsion of the frightened-looking pilot in the cockpit, the aircraft was empty. Entirely devoid of human life. Quickly checking the bathroom, the chairs, and the luggage areas, the inspector found no traces of anyone hiding much less multiple individuals. What the the pits was Bezu Fache thinking? It seemed Leigh Teabing had been proveing the truth. The Kent chief inspector stood alone in the deserted cabin and swallowed hard. Shit.His faceflushed, he stepped back onto the gangway, gazing across the hangar at Leigh Teabing and hisservant, who were now under gunpoint near the limousine. Let them go, the inspector ordered. We received a bad tip.Teabings eyes were menacing even across the hangar. You can expect a call from my lawyers. And for future reference, the French police cannot be trusted.With that, Teabings manservant opened the door at the rear of the stretch limousine and helped his stultify master into the back seat. Then the servant walked the length of the car, climbed in behind the wheel, and gunned the engine. Policemen scattered as the Jaguar peeled out of the hangar.Well played, my good man, Teabing chimed from the rear seat as the limousine deepen out of the airport. He turned his eyes now to the dimly lit front recesses of the spacious interior. Everyone comfy?Langdon gave a weak nod. He and Sophie were still crouched on the floor beside the bound and gagged albino.Moments earlier, as the Hawker taxied into the deserted hangar, Remy had popped the hatch as the plane jolted to a stop halfway through its turn. With the police goal in fast, Langdon and Sophie dragged the monk down the gangway to ground level and out of sight behind the limousine. Then the jet engines had roared again, rotating the plane and completing its turn as the police car s came skidding into the hangar.Now, as the limousine raced toward Kent, Langdon and Sophie clambered toward the rear of the limos long interior, leaving the monk bound on the floor. They settled onto the long seat facing Teabing. The Brit gave them some(prenominal) a roguish smile and opened the cabinet on the limos bar. Could I offer you a drink? Some nibblies? Crisps? Nuts? Seltzer? Sophie and Langdon both shook their heads. Teabing grinned and closed the bar. So then, about this knights tombCHAPTER 82 lead passageway? Langdon asked, eyeing Teabing in the back of the limo. Theres a crypt on Fleet Street? So far, Leigh was being playfully cagey about where he thought they would find the knights tomb, which, according to the verse, would provide the password for opening the smaller cryptex.Teabing grinned and turned to Sophie. Miss Neveu, give the Harvard boy one more shot at the verse, will you?Sophie fished in her pocket and pulled out the black cryptex, which was wrapped in t he vellum. Everyone had decided to leave the rosewood tree box and larger cryptex behind in the planes strongbox, carrying with them only what they needed, the far more portable and discreet black cryptex. Sophie unwrapped the vellum and handed the sheet to Langdon.Although Langdon had read the poem several times onboard the jet, he had been unable to extract any specific location. Now, as he read the words again, he processed them slowly and carefully, hoping the pentametric rhythms would notify a clearer meaning now that he was on the ground.In London lies a knight a pontiff interred.His labors fruit a Holy fury incurred.You seek the orb that ought be on his tomb.It speaks of Rosy flesh and seeded womb.The language seemed simple enough. There was a knight buried in London. A knight who labored at something that angered the Church. A knight whose tomb was missing an orb that should be present. The poems final reference Rosy flesh and seeded womb was a clear allusion to Mary M agdalene, the Rose who bore the seed of Jesus.Despite the apparent straightforwardness of the verse, Langdon still had no idea who this knight was or where he was buried. Moreover, once they located the tomb, it sounded as if they would be searching for something that was absent. The orb that ought be on his tomb?No thoughts? Teabing clucked in disappointment, although Langdon sensed the Royal historiographer was enjoying being one up. Miss Neveu?She shook her head.What would you two do without me? Teabing said. Very well, I will walk you through it. Its quite simple really. The first suck is the key. Would you read it please?Langdon read aloud. In London lies a knight a Pope interred. Precisely. A knight a Pope interred. He look Langdon. What does that mean to you?Langdon shrugged. A knight buried by a Pope? A knight whose funeral was presided over by a Pope?Teabing laughed loudly. Oh, thats rich. Always the optimist, Robert. savour at the second line. This knight obviously di d something that incurred the Holy wrath of the Church. Think again. Consider the dynamic between the Church and the Knights Templar. A knight a Pope interred?A knight a Pope killed? Sophie asked. Teabing smiled and patted her knee. Well done, my dear. A knight a Pope buried.Or killed. Langdon thought of the notorious Templar round-up in 1307 unlucky Friday the 13th when Pope Clement killed and interred hundreds of Knights Templar. But at that place must be endless graves of knights killed by Popes. Aha, not so Teabing said. Many of them were burned at the stake and tossed unceremoniously into the Tiber River. But this poem refers to a tomb.A tomb in London. And there are few knights buried in London. He paused, eyeing Langdon as if waiting for light to dawn. Finally he huffed. Robert, for heavens sake The perform built in London by the Priorys military arm the Knights Templar themselvesThe synagogue Church? Langdon drew a startled breath. It has a crypt?Ten of the most frigh tening tombs you will ever see.Langdon had never actually visited the Temple Church, although hed come across numerous references in his Priory research. at a time the epicenter of all Templar/Priory activities in the United Kingdom, the Temple Church had been so named in prise of Solomons Temple, from which the Knights Templar had extracted their own title, as well as the Sangreal documents that gave them all their crop in Rome. Tales abounded of knights performing strange, secretive rituals within the Temple Churchs unusual sanctuary. The Temple Church is on Fleet Street? executeually, its just off Fleet Street on midland Temple Lane. Teabing looked mischievous. I wanted to see you sweat a little more before I gave it away. Thanks. Neither of you has ever been there? Sophie and Langdon shook their heads. Im not surprised, Teabing said. The church is hidden now behind much larger buildings. Few people even know its there. Eerie old place. The architecture is pagan to the core. Sophie looked surprised. Pagan?Pantheonically pagan Teabing exclaimed. The church is round.The Templars ignored the traditional Christian cruciform layout and built a perfectly circular church in repay of the sun. His eyebrows did a devilish dance. A not so subtle howdy-do to the boys in Rome. They might as well have resurrected Stonehenge in downtown London.Sophie eyed Teabing. What about the rest of the poem?The historians mirthful air faded. Im not sure. Its puzzling. We will need to examine each of the ten tombs carefully. With luck, one of them will have a conspicuously absent orb. Langdon realized how close they really were. If the missing orb revealed the password, they would be able to open the second cryptex. He had a hard time imagining what they might find inside.Langdon eyed the poem again. It was like some kind of primordial crossword puzzle. A five-letter word that speaks of the Grail? On the plane, they had already tried all the obvious passwords GRAIL, GRAAL, GREA L, VENUS, MARIA, JESUS, SARAH but the cylinder had not budged. Far too obvious.Apparently there existed some other five-letter reference to the Roses seeded womb. The fact that the word was eluding a specialist like Leigh Teabing signified to Langdon that it was no ordinary Grail reference.Sir Leigh? Remy called over his shoulder. He was watching them in the rearview mirror through the open divider. You said Fleet Street is near Blackfriars Bridge? Yes, take Victoria Embankment. Im sorry. Im not sure where that is. We usually go only to the hospital.Teabing rolled his eyes at Langdon and Sophie and grumbled, I swear, sometimes its like baby- sitting a child. One moment please. Help yourself to a drink and savory snacks. He left them, clambering awkwardly toward the open divider to colloquy to Remy. Sophie turned to Langdon now, her voice quiet. Robert, nobody knows you and I are in England. Langdon realized she was right. The Kent police would tell Fache the plane was empty, and F achewould have to assume they were still in France. We are invisible.Leighs little stunt had just boughtthem a lot of time.Fache will not give up easy, Sophie said. He has too much riding on this arrest now.Langdon had been trying not to think about Fache. Sophie had promised she would do everything in her power to exonerate Langdon once this was over, but Langdon was starting to fear it might not matter. Fache could easily be pan of this plot.Although Langdon could not work out the Judicial Police tangled up in the Holy Grail, he sensed too much alignment tonight to disregard Fache as a possible accomplice. Fache is religions, and he is intent on pinning these murders onme.Then again, Sophie had argued that Fache might simply be overzealous to make the arrest. After all, the evidence against Langdon was substantial. In addition to Langdons name scrawled on the Louvre floor and in Saunieres date book, Langdon now appeared to have lied about his manuscript and then run away. At So phies suggestion.Robert, Im sorry youre so deeply involved, Sophie said, placing her hand on his knee. But Im very glad youre here.The comment sounded more pragmatic than romantic, and yet Langdon felt an unexpected flicker of attraction between them. He gave her a tired smile. Im a lot more fun when Ive slept.Sophie was silent for several seconds. My grandfather asked me to trust you. Im glad I listened to him for once.Your grandfather didnt even know me.Even so, I cant help but think youve done everything he would have wanted. You helped me find the keystone, explained the Sangreal, told me about the ritual in the basement. She paused. Somehow I feel closer to my grandfather tonight than I have in years. I know he would be happy about that.In the distance, now, the skyline of London began to materialize through the dawn drizzle. Once dominated by Big Ben and Tower Bridge, the horizon now bowed to the Millennium Eye a colossal, ultra young Ferris wheel that climbed five hundred fe et and afforded breathtaking views of the city. Langdon had attempted to board it once, but the viewing capsules reminded him of sealed sarcophagi, and he opted to keep his feet on the ground and enjoy the view from the airy banks of the Thames.Langdon felt a squeeze on his knee, pulling him back, and Sophies green eyes were on him. He realized she had been speaking to him. What do you think we should do with the Sangreal documents if we ever find them? she whispered.What I think is immaterial, Langdon said. Your grandfather gave the cryptex to you, and you should do with it what your instinct tells you he would want done.Im petition for your opinion. You obviously wrote something in that manuscript that made my grandfather trust your judgment. He scheduled a private meeting with you. Thats rare.Maybe he wanted to tell me I have it all wrong.Why would he tell me to find you unless he liked your ideas? In your manuscript, did you support the idea that the Sangreal documents should b e revealed or stay buried?Neither. I made no judgment either way. The manuscript deals with the symbology of the sacred feminine tracing her iconography throughout history. I certainly didnt presume to know where the Grail is hidden or whether it should ever be revealed. And yet youre writing a book about it, so you obviously feel the information should be shared. Theres an enormous difference between hypothetically discussing an alternate history of Christ, and He paused. And what? And presenting to the world thousands of ancient documents as scientific evidence that the New Testament is ill-considered testimony.But you told me the New Testament is based on fabrications.Langdon smiled. Sophie, every faith in the world is based on fabrication. That is the definition of faith acceptance of that which we imagine to be true, that which we cannot prove. Every religion describes God through metaphor, allegory, and exaggeration, from the early Egyptians through modern Sunday school. Me taphors are a way to help our minds process the unprocessible. The problems issue when we begin to believe literally in our own metaphors.So you are in favor of the Sangreal documents staying buried forever?Im a historian. Im opposed to the destruction of documents, and I would love to see religious scholars have more information to ponder the exceptional life of Jesus Christ.Youre arguing both sides of my headland.Am I? The rule book represents a fundamental guidepost for millions of people on the planet, in much the same way the Koran, Torah, and Pali Canon offer guidance to people of other religions. If you and I could dig up documentation that contradicted the holy stories of Islamic belief, Judaic belief, Buddhist belief, pagan belief, should we do that? Should we wave a flag and tell the Buddhists that we have make the Buddha did not come from a lotus blossom? Or that Jesus was not born of a literal vestal birth? Those who truly understand their faiths understand the stor ies are metaphorical.Sophie looked skeptical. My friends who are devout Christians definitely believe that Christ literallywalked on water, literally turned water into wine, and was born of a literal virgin birth.My point exactly, Langdon said. Religious allegory has become a part of the fabric of reality. And living in that reality helps millions of people cope and be better people.But it appears their reality is false.Langdon chuckled. No more false than that of a mathematical cryptographer who believes in the imaginary number ibecause it helps her break codes.Sophie frowned. Thats not fair. A moment passed. What was your question again? Langdon asked. I cant remember. He smiled. Works every time.CHAPTER 83Langdons Mickey Mouse wristwatch read almost seven-thirty when he emerged from the Jaguar limousine onto Inner Temple Lane with Sophie and Teabing. The trey wound through a maze of buildings to a small courtyard outside the Temple Church. The rough-hewn stone shimmered in the r ain, and doves cooed in the architecture overhead.Londons ancient Temple Church was constructed entirely of Caen stone. A dramatic, circular edifice with a daunting facade, a central turret, and a protruding nave off one side, the church looked more like a military stronghold than a place of worship. Consecrated on the tenth of February in 1185 by Heraclius, paterfamilias of Jerusalem, the Temple Church survived eight centuries of political turmoil, the Great Fire of London, and the First World War, only to be heavily damaged by Luftwaffe incendiary bombs in 1940. After the war, it was restored to its original, black grandeur.The simplicity of the circle, Langdon thought, admiring the building for the first time. The architecture was coarse and simple, more reminiscent of Romes rugged Castel SantAngelo than the refined Pantheon. The boxy annex jutting out to the right was an unfortunate eyesore, although it did little to shroud the original pagan shape of the primary structure.Its early on a Saturday, Teabing said, hobbling toward the entrance, so Im assuming we wont have service to deal with.The churchs entryway was a recessed stone niche inside which stood a large wooden door. To the left of the door, looking entirely out of place, hung a bulletin board covered with concert schedules and religious service announcements.Teabing frowned as he read the board. They dont open to sightseers for another couple of hours. He moved to the door and tried it. The door didnt budge. Putting his ear to the wood, he listened. After a moment, he pulled back, a scheming look on his face as he pointed to the bulletin board. Robert, check the service schedule, will you? Who is presiding this week?Inside the church, an altar boy was almost finished vacuuming the communion kneelers when he heard a smash on the sanctuary door. He ignored it. Father Harvey Knowles had his own keys and was not due for another couple of hours. The knocking was probably a curious holidaymaker or in digent. The altar boy kept vacuuming, but the knocking continued. Cant you read? The sign on the door clearly stated that the church did not open until nine-thirty on Saturday. The altar boy remained with his chores.Suddenly, the knocking turned to a forceful banging, as if someone were hitting the door with a metal rod. The young man switched off his vacuum cleaner and marched angrily toward the door. Unlatching it from within, he swung it open. Three people stood in the entryway. Tourists, he grumbled. We open at nine-thirty.The heavyset man, apparently the leader, stepped forward utilise metal crutches. I am Sir Leigh Teabing, he said, his accent a highbrow, Saxonesque British. As you are no doubt aware, I am escorting Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Wren the Fourth. He stepped aside, lucky his arm toward the attractive couple behind them. The woman was soft-featured, with lush burgundy hair. The man was tall, dark-haired, and looked vaguely familiar.The altar boy had no idea how to r espond. Sir Christopher Wren was the Temple Churchs most famous benefactor. He had made possible all the restorations following damage caused by the Great Fire. He had also been dead since the early eighteenth century. Um an honor to meet you?The man on crutches frowned. Good thing youre not in sales, young man, youre not very convincing. Where is Father Knowles?Its Saturday. Hes not due in until later.The crippled mans scowl deepened. Theres gratitude. He assured us he would be here, but it looks like well do it without him. It wont take long.The altar boy remained blocking the doorway. Im sorry, what wont take long?The visitors eyes sharpened now, and he leaned forward whispering as if to save everyone some embarrassment. Young man, apparently you are new here. Every year Sir Christopher Wrens descendants bring a pinch of the old mans ashes to scatter in the Temple sanctuary. It is part of his last will and testament. Nobody is particularly happy about qualification the trip, but what can we do?The altar boy had been here a couple of years but had never heard of this custom. It would be better if you waited until nine-thirty. The church isnt open yet, and Im not finished hoovering.The man on crutches glared angrily. Young man, the only reason theres anything left of this building for you to hoover is on account of the gentleman in that womans pocket.Im sorry?Mrs. Wren, the man on crutches said, would you be so kind as to show this impertinent young man the reliquary of ashes?The woman hesitated a moment and then, as if awaking from a trance, reached in her sweater pocket and pulled out a small cylinder wrapped in protective fabric.There, you see? the man on crutches snapped. Now, you can either grant his dying wish and let us sprinkle his ashes in the sanctuary, or I tell Father Knowles how weve been treated.The altar boy hesitated, well acquainted with Father Knowles deep observance of church tradition and, more importantly, with his foul temper when anyth ing cast this time-honored shrine in anything but comfortable light. Maybe Father Knowles had simply forgotten these family members were coming. If so, then there was far more risk in turning them away than in letting them in. After all, they said it would only take a minute.What harm could it do?When the altar boy stepped aside to let the three people pass, he could have verbalise Mr. and Mrs. Wren looked just as bewildered by all of this as he was. Uncertain, the boy returned to his chores, watching them out of the corner of his eye.Langdon had to smile as the threesome moved deeper into the church. Leigh, he whispered, you lie entirely too well. Teabings eyes twinkled. Oxford Theatre Club. They still talk of my Julius Caesar. Im certain nobody has ever performed the first scene of Act Three with more dedication.Langdon glanced over. I thought Caesar was dead in that scene.Teabing smirked. Yes, but my toga tore open when I fell, and I had to lie on stage for half an hour with my todger hanging out. Even so, I never moved a muscle. I was brilliant, I tell you.Langdon cringed. Sorry I missed it.As the assembly moved through the rectangular annex toward the archway leading into the main church, Langdon was surprised by the barren austerity. Although the altar layout resembled that of a linear Christian chapel, the furnishings were stark and cold, bearing none of the traditional ornamentation. Bleak, he whispered.Teabing chuckled. Church of England. Anglicans drink their religion straight. Nothing to distract from their misery.Sophie motioned through the vast opening that gave way to the circular subdivision of the church. It looks like a fortress in there, she whispered.Langdon agreed. Even from here, the walls looked unusually robust.The Knights Templar were warriors, Teabing reminded, the sound of his aluminum crutches echoing in this reverberant space. A religio-military society. Their churches were their strongholds and their banks.Banks? Sophie asked, glancing at Leigh.Heavens, yes. The Templars invented the concept of modern banking. For European nobility, traveling with gold was perilous, so the Templars allowed nobles to deposit gold in their nearest Temple Church and then draw it from any other Temple Church across Europe. All they needed was proper documentation. He winked. And a small commission. They were the original ATMs. Teabing pointed toward a stained-glass window where the breaking sun was refracting through a white-clad knight riding a rose-colored horse. Alanus Marcel, Teabing said, Master of the Temple in the early twelve hundreds. He and his successors actually held the Parliamentary chair of Primus Baro Angiae.Langdon was surprised. First world-beater of the Realm?Teabing nodded. The Master of the Temple, some claim, held more influence than the king himself. As they arrived outside the circular chamber, Teabing shot a glance over his shoulder at the altar boy, who was vacuuming in the distance. You know, Teabi ng whispered to Sophie, the Holy Grail is said to once have been stored in this church overnight while the Templars moved it from one hiding place to another. Can you imagine the four chests of Sangreal documents sitting right here with Mary Magdalenes sarcophagus? It gives me gooseflesh.Langdon was feeling gooseflesh too as they stepped into the circular chamber. His eye traced the curved shape of the chambers pale stone perimeter, taking in the carvings of gargoyles, demons, monsters, and pained human faces, all staring inward. Beneath the carvings, a single stone pew curled around the entire circumference of the room.Theater in the round, Langdon whispered.Teabing raised a crutch, pointing toward the far left of the room and then to the far right. Langdon had already seen them.Ten stone knights. louver on the left. Five on the right.Lying prone on the floor, the carved, life-sized figures rested in peaceful poses. The knights were depicted wearing full armor, shields, and swords , and the tombs gave Langdon the uneasy asterisk that someone had snuck in and poured plaster over the knights while they were sleeping. All of the figures were deeply weathered, and yet each was clearly unique different armory pieces, distinct leg and arm positions, facial features, and markings on their shields.In London lies a knight a Pope interred.Langdon felt shaky as he inched deeper into the circular room.This had to be the place.