Basics of collective bargaining and its effects within globalisation

Dubai Vs. USA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Dubai Vs. USA - Essay Example Non-verbal communication shapes a significant piece of the correspondence procedure however it doesn't remain as the main type of correspondence. Non-verbal correspondence will consolidate numerous viewpoints, for example, dressing, culture and district. In Dubai, guys normally put on long dresses. This has shaped a significant piece of non-verbal correspondence regularly identifying with the Muslim culture with different Muslims doing likewise in different pieces of the world. In America, the clothing regulation is extraordinary. Men will more uncertain be found in such long dresses and whenever found, the end made is that they could be a Muslim. Ladies in Dubai which is a male ruled district talk delicately. In spite of the fact that critical advances have been made to address the issue and engage the ladies, the way of life they have been raised in directed that they ought to be faithful to their spouses which makes them or places them in a clumsy state. Contrasting that and the U.S., one understands that ladies in the U.S. are increasingly vocal. They assume responsibility for things and lance head changes in their individ ual spots of impact. This has been developed by the way of life they have raised in. The two contrasting societies have various desires for every sex with the Arab in Dubai recouping from a simply male ruled one and the U.S. being a genuinely equivalent force populace. In this manner, taking a gander at the verbal and non-verbal correspondence in those spots, the change that will probably be noted is absence of trust in a portion of the women in Dubai while those in the U.S. will take the middle stage and convey the message they needed. Though a great many people will probably adjust to the American culture and be in a situation to move well in correspondence, study has demonstrated that an excursion for work to Dubai will be increasingly entangled. In spite of the fact that not an unquestionable requirement, one will be in a superior position in the event that he can decently use verbal and nonverbal correspondence. On this, he ought to be in a situation to follow and comprehend the fundamental pointers in the Arab work environment. The job of

Role of Technology ASDA Information Technology Essay

Role of Technology ASDA Information Technology Essay ASDA is one of the leading supermarket retailers in the United Kingdom. The company was founded in 1965 and currently employs more than 165,000 workers. The history of the business goes back to 1949 when local farmers organized in a group to facilitate diary production and distribution. By the 1990s, ASDA was a booming business that expanded by buying large stored like, for example, Gateway Superstores (Hegazy, 2012). Under the leadership of Archie Norman in the 1990s, the company embraced new business strategies and marketing approaches. The company actively used the experience of Wal-Mart, and later became a subsidiary of this large American chain store (Hegazy, 2012). Currently, the company is the third largest retailer in the UK after Tesco and Sainsbury’s. Besides retailing, ASDA also offers mobile and financial services and owns a chain of petrol filling station across the country. Technology plays an immense role in sustaining this large business. Information technologies (IT) are a central part of any contemporary business, and ASDA managers are willing to take advantage of them to make the business more effective and profitable. Among other things, IT allows ASDA to have accurate records of stores, employees, business plans, loyalty schemes, etc., which facilitates communication and management processes. ASDA is committed to improving its IT opportunities by introducing various projects and initiatives. In the fast-changing, demanding business setting, this aspect of the company’s operation is extremely important. ASDA technologies penetrate almost every aspect of its operation. Thus, for instance, apart from the chain of stores located across the UK, the company has also launched its online store to make shopping more convenient for its customers (Retail Technology, 2013). It has been announced that given the increasing demand and the growing popularity of online shopping, it was only reasonable for the company to enter the e-commerce. As part of the process of launching the online store, ASDA cooperated with eCommera to work on payment gateways, advertising, site context, and other critical aspects (Retail Technology, 2013). Sophisticated software Asda Direct was designed in 2012 to improve the efficiency of distribution and strengthen the company’s position in the e-commerce market (Computer Weekly, 2012). This technology platform is focused on merchandising of various goods including electronics, baby items, toys, furniture, etc. Integrated into the largest distribution centers, it allows making the process of online order placement and subsequent delivery faster and more convenient for both ASDA employees and customers (Computer Weekly, 2012). More specifically, it allows notifying customers when particular items are in stock, which facilitates the process of online shopping and helps avoid delays. Notably, a faster and enhanced system is a valuable contribution to the company’s sustainability because it increases its competitive advantage and attracts more clients. Technologies enhance the operation of physical stores as well. For example, recently introduced RFID (radio frequency identification) technology allows employees to see where each item is located and monitor stock volumes more effectively (Thompson, 2014). Thus, it became easier for workers to plan stock levels and ensure that all products and goods and available to customers. It means that clients can be sure they will buy everything they need without the necessity to drive to another store (Thompson, 2014). To conclude, technology plays an essential role in the ASDA company. First, it makes it more competitive in the demanding retailing market. Second, it facilitates marketing and distribution and makes it easier for employees to manage huge stock levels. Third, technology allows attracting more customers by diversifying marketing approaches and improving access to goods and services. Successful use of technologies certainly makes ASDA one of the leading retailers in the UK and contributes to its positive reputation.

The Treatment Philosophy Of Alcoholics Anonymous Essay

Meeting attended: Alcoholics Anonymous, Serenity Group, Urban Ministries, 03/07/2016, 1200. The treatment philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is that of a 12-step program, additionally, the group caters to individuals who are recovering, or trying to recover from alcoholism. This group only focuses on alcohol abuse/misuse and not any other types of addiction. The 12-step program used by AA uses a person s spirituality to focus their attention on their higher power and how they might draw strength from it. In the meeting that I attended, the participants concentrated on the first two steps of the 12-step program. The first step, admitting that the person is/was powerless over alcohol, opened my eyes due to the fact that I always had thought that the first step was admitting you have a problem. Although, they come to the same conclusion, the word powerless struck a chord because being powerless can leave you feeling worthless and weak. The second step, believing that a power greater than yourself will restore you to sanity, I feel was the absolute focus of this meeting. T he participants read prayers and meditation passages before the meeting really got underway. I looked around at the faces in the room and I saw peace and acceptance on most faces when they were praying to their God to give them strength to abstain from alcohol for the day. After the opening prayers, dedications, meditation, and introductions (to which everyone said their first name followed by andShow MoreRelated12-Step Research Paper1506 Words   |  7 Pagesnearly all recovery programs still in use today. The program was originally called Twelve Steps for Alcoholics and is now referred to as the Twelve Step Program. The origins of the Twelve Step Program are unique. The Twelve-Step Program was the creation of a gentleman named Bill Wilson. Wilson was a stockbroker originally from New York who moved to Akron, Ohio, in 1935. Wilson was an alcoholic. After his relocation to Akron, he was extremely lonely and his drinking increased; in spite of thisRead MoreThe Effects Of Alcoholism On The Alcoholic874 Words   |  4 Pagesthe alcoholic and the people around them, but it does so in a much different way than a disease such as cancer. Instead, alcoholism is a disease of both physical and mental dependence. Most diseases are treated by surgery or medication, but the only way to fix the problem of alcohol abuse is by changing the mindset of the alcoholic. This is why Hazelden Betty Ford uses mental adjustment techniques to treat alcoholics at its centers. Their philosophy relies on the fact that the alcoholic is mentallyRead MoreAlcoholics Anonymous And The Philosophies Essay1883 Words   |  8 Pages Alcoholics Anonymous and The Philosophies in Between: Conflicting Philosophies Between the Original Twelve-Step Alcohol’s Anonymous Program and The New Counseling Profession Brandon R. McIver University of Oregon Abstract This paper concerns the notoriously well known successful treatment program, Alcoholics Anonymous twelve-step program, and contrasts it to what would be referred to as a revised version of the original program. Alcoholics Anonymous has beenRead MoreAlcoholics Anonymous An Open Meeting1188 Words   |  5 PagesAlcoholics Anonymous an Open Meeting Dominique Steinburg describes mutual aid as a process through which people develop collaborative, supportive, and trustworthy relationships; identify and use existing strengths and/or to develop new ones; and work together toward individual and/or collective psychosocial goals. (Steinburg, 2010) Alcoholics Anonymous is mutual aid group that supports individuals in their recovery from alcohol dependence. Established in the mid 1930’s, Alcoholics Anonymous wasRead MoreA Research Study On Prevention1432 Words   |  6 PagesIn my research I’ve found that prevention is the key to treatment. Here are some suggestions that I propose. Firstly, I suggest that the communities of San Juan County work together to educate the youth early and de-romanticize the drinking experience by having Al anon speakers, speak about the dangers. Real life experiences are proven to hold a greater impact on an audience rather than just some literature. There are 37 states so far to require some sort of drug and alcohol prevention in the classroomsRead MoreCounseling For Alcohol And Drug Abuse1679 Words   |  7 Pagesor actively in recovery, the clinician must take their time with introducing the 12 Steps. The individual may not be open to the 12 Step philosophies at the onset. Addiction is very complex and actively affects the person on a daily basis; therefore, it is so important to start from the beginning of counseling to create a structured program. Alcoholics Anonymous has given a wonderful platform of structure for the addicted ones to create a safe, solid, 12 Step guideline to follow, in order to maintainRead MoreAlcoholics Anonymous : A History, Its Implications And The Meeting1531 Words   |  7 PagesAlcoholics Anonymous: A History, its Implications and the Meeting Support groups, how well do support groups actually benefit individuals and how are these support groups incorporated so that the techniques can actually assist someone? In researching this particular topic of Alcoholic Anonymous the results indicated that there is a diversity of AA groups. Although they all have the same objective there are variations in methods and techniques which are implemented to be able to infiltrate theRead MoreThe Major Difference Between Religion And Science1493 Words   |  6 Pagesthere a place for religion and spirituality when it comes to dealing with addiction? If so, what role do they play? Can they be substituted for traditional methods of treatment or perhaps they can work in conjunction with one another. Should treatment specialists consider incorporating religion and spirituality into their treatment methods? Christianity Christianity is the biggest religion in the world with over 2.2 billion adherents, and it has many different branches such as Catholicism, LutheranismRead MoreWilliam Griffith Wilson: Co-Founder of Alcoholic Anonymous1390 Words   |  6 Pageseventually married on January 24, 1918 right before Bill had left for World War I. (â€Å"Bill Wilson†, 2012). Bill W. served as a Second Lieutenant in the Coast Artillery. Bill had finally, in the military, experienced his â€Å"first drink†. According to Alcoholics Anonymous (2001), Bill stated, â€Å" I had found the elixir of life.† This first drink led to the second and all the drinks in the years to come for Bill, as he began drinking heavily and excessively. After the war, he went to live with Lois in New YorkRead MoreAlcohol Addiction Is A Never Ending Problem Essay1370 Words   |  6 Pageswith a loss of a family member, financial crisis or even homelessness. The cost of alcohol addiction and treatment in the Sta te of Wisconsin is approximately $6.8 billion and rising due to the continued abuse of alcohol (Wisconsin Department of Health Services, 2014, p. 14). With the high usage of alcohol abuse, one must turn to programs within their local community for support and treatment. In the community in which I live one would have to say that it is rural. There is only one AA support group

The French Revolution Was Inevitable - 2263 Words

Ultimately, the French Revolution was inevitable. The people of France were growing increasingly more upset with treatment they received from the upper and royal classes, mainly due to special privileges and weakened punishments for people of aristocratic families. Further fueling the fire, Louis XVI, the reigning king at the time, had recently levied a new land tax to solve France’s financial issues. The nation’s public banded together to eliminate unjust ruling in their country once and for all. The revolution officially began in June 1789 and quickly escalated, with the Storming of the Bastille, the forced release of French prisoners by the public, occurring less than a month later. While members of the government had anticipated an angry mob, the actual amount of people that showed up at the Bastille far surpassed their prediction of about 100. Eventually, civilians were able to barrel their way into the prison and release the seven inmates, all of which were imprisoned by King Louis XVI. The event left approximately 100 military and insurgents dead and marked a huge leap toward the eventual creation of the Republic of France. The fragmentation of the country of France was essentially caused by its ruler, King Louis XVI. Described as â€Å"weak in character† and â€Å"mentally dull†, Louis didn’t understand what it took to rule a country. Born into his position, King Louis didn’t seem to appreciate hard work. During his time as monarch of France, he did little other thanShow MoreRelatedFrench Revolution: the Solution to Class Inequality1141 Words   |  5 Pages The French Revolution was one of the most important events that occurred in the history of France. The revolution crumpled the Old Regime and completely transformed the social and political system of France. The people of France sought to establish a more egalitarian society through their newly created Republic. When Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Baron de Montesquieu introduced individual liberty, natural rights and equality the ideas of revolution emergedRead MoreComparing and Contrasting the American and French Revolutions805 Words   |  4 PagesAmerican Revolution began for two reasons: political and economic, while the French Revolution began with domination and mismanagement that contributed to the French society. During the Revolution many events occurred having a major effect, such as the sugar act, currency act, and the Townshend act. The French began the Tennis Court Oath, the Storming of the Bastille, and the overthrown of Monarchy . The French Revolution followed in suit with the American Revolution, because the French were in favorRead MoreCauses of the French Revolution Essay1464 Words   |  6 PagesCauses of the French Revolution The French Revolution happened in France around the period 1789-92 (although these dates are disputed by historians), and resulted in the overthrow of the French monarchy and the Ancien Rà ©gime (the system of government). The monarchy in France had been established for many centuries, and the causes of the Revolution were deeply-rooted, including the problems with the Ancien Rà ©gime, the growth of nationalism, the influence of philosophers, and the example ofRead MoreEssay about Causes of the French Revolution640 Words   |  3 PagesThe French Revolution was caused by many factors; some were significant and played a large role while others were of minor consequence. France was one of the richest and most powerful nations even though they were facing some economic difficulties. The French Revolution was a pivotal period in the history of French, European and Western civilization. During this period of time there was the formation of republicanism which replaced the absolute mona rchy in France. Before the French Revolution LouisRead MoreEffects Of Nationalism In The French Revolution1501 Words   |  7 Pagesthe old Latin sense, meant people of the same origin, the most common criteria for a nation were shared a language and history†. In case of France, the nationalism force was very effective and inevitable during the French revolution 1789. It was a great historical event brought many changes in France. Before the revolution, France was controlled by Ancient regime in which common people have had not freedom and rights. The financial crisis made by Louis XVI compelled to establishment of Estates GeneralRead MoreThe Success Of The American Revolution1633 Words   |  7 PagesVolumes of scholastic literature, circulated history books, and an array of multiple sources acknowledge Frances’ contributory role in the success of the American Revolution. Prior to discussing their role in the American Revolution, it is important to mention their historical past in t he colonies in order to understand why they intervened on behalf of the continentals. Frances’ historical past in the 13 colonies is filled with humiliation and resentment due to their defeat against Great BritainRead MoreThe Importance Of The French Revolution777 Words   |  4 PagesThe French Revolution was certainly one of the most important events in Europe’s political history and highlighted the importance of the new age of Enlightenment. The outcomes of the Revolution were many: its short comings led to the rise of the Napoleonic Regime and Robespierre’s reign through terror led other European revolutionaries to step back in fear. However, whilst the revolution failed to achieve all it had aimed to do; it did overthrow its monarchy, creating the first true European RepublicRead MoreThe Causes of the American Revolution Essay1425 Words   |  6 Pagesenforce together made the revolution inevitable. The British were definitely expected to win the dispute because they significantly over powered the Colonists in most areas. They had more money, weapons, people, etc. However the American’s prevailed with the help of the French. Their involvement was largely based on the French losing the French and Indian War to the English. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;The American Revolution was an inevitable conflict. The French and Indian War had major effectsRead MoreTale Of Two Cities Analysis704 Words   |  3 Pagesorder to describe the similarities between the forces that led to the revolution and the oppression and unrest occurring in England. The French revolution impacts history because the time period in which it takes place is before and during the French revolution. The French revolution signifies the essence of a rapid change, nevertheless, this change tore France right at the heart, where all the government was â€Å"functioning†. France was torn apart because of the rebellions of the Bourgeoisie, against theRead MoreIndustrial Revolution Essay1731 Words   |  7 Pagesdifferent, yet important revolutions that have taken place in the past four centuries. These drastic and radical changes have been brought about by revolutionaries who desired a free society in which free trade, free markets, and free labor existed for the common man. These revolutions imply sudden forceful change, however, there is also evolutionary changes in society that are gradual and develop over time, which bring about many positive advancements. The French Revolution enhanced a new order of

Innovative Strategy in Royal Dutch Shell Free Essays

Abstract Royal Dutch Shell has established itself as a market leader in the gas and oil industry primarily due to its innovative approach to product development. By looking at the corporate strategy of the organisation a much greater understating of the use of innovative strategy can be obtained, with reference to corporate culture as well as the practical reality of innovation in a changing world. What is the Corporate Strategy of Shell? Royal Dutch Shell (â€Å"Shell†) is one of the main players in the oil and gas industry and is recognised as the largest company in the world, in 2013. We will write a custom essay sample on Innovative Strategy in Royal Dutch Shell or any similar topic only for you Order Now Shell is involved in every aspect of the oil and gas industry, with a large amount of vertical integration from the initial exploration through to the end trading, giving it potentially a large amount of power within the industry. The purpose of this paper is to look at the innovative strategy of Shell, with particular reference to its general corporate strategy, its structure, mission and vision, as well as looking at how its corporate culture encourages innovation at every stage of the operation. As noted by Shell itself, the company aims to meet with growing demand from customers to produce more power, but with less impact on society and the environment. As a result, the company has placed a great deal of emphasis on investment in research and development, in order to create greater efficiencies, so that the company can produce more energy, without incurring greater costs, either financially or environmentally (Burdon et al., 2008). The generic strategies employed by Shell are seen to be focused on differentiation by looking towards innovation in its exploration and production, with a focus on renewable and trading arrangements, as well as the more recent introduction of Shell Global Solutions International which includes technology services within the industry. It therefore has an overall advantage which has been gained by establishing new technologies, while also reducing the threat from new entrants or the threat from substitutes (Maharaj and Herremans, 2008). Mission Statement and Vision Shell has established several general business principles as part of its day-to-day operations. However, despite having a myriad of different activities and business units, it has a set of 8 business principles which are applied at every stage. These are the combination of the three core values, namely honesty, integrity and respect for people which established 8 core business principles – economic competition, business integrity, political activity, health and safety, security and the environment, local communities, communication and engagement, and compliance (Davenport, et al., 2007). As part of the business strategy, the organisation is openly committed to sustainable development, which requires the team to look at balancing short- and long-term interests and integrating a broad range of responsibilities with a broad range of stakeholders. Corporate Culture towards Innovation Bearing in mind these principles, Shell is following an ethos of innovation, recognising that sustainable development and the new technologies that achieve this are central. One of the main strategies pursued by Shell is that of encouraging innovation and, as part of its shareholder mission, the organisation recognises that it cannot develop innovation alone and has therefore encouraged individuals to submit ideas as to how they can overcome challenges within the energy sector, in such a way that will enable companies such as Shell to meet with future global demand. Shell also works in partnership with many other organisations in order to tackle some of the major challenges facing the industry. Furthermore, it recognises that developing specialist in-house skills by recruiting the top scientists and researchers to work at its technology centre to tackle all of these problems will mean that Shell’s long-term agenda will ultimately be achieved (Shell, 2013). A team of nine Chief Scientists work within the organisation, each with their own specialist area. For example, Jose Bravo is the Shell Chief Scientist Separations and is currently looking at developing new equipment to work in the refinery in order to facilitate more efficient separation. He states: â€Å"†¦we see technology as a way that Shell is going to carry on into the future. It is a fundamental part of our business strategy and the people that deliver that technology are the key resource for the company for the future†. This statement shows the type of culture that is emerging within the organisation and the importance is placed on innovation at every stage (Verburg, et al., 2006). Processes of Innovation, Stages of New Product Development The Chief Technical Officer, Gerald Schotman, goes one step further in his statement saying: â€Å"Technology underpins our ability to shape the future of energy. But we must have a clear vision of the future to know what technology we must develop today†. There are three key regional technology centres, the first in Amsterdam, the second in Houston and the third in Bangalore. The centre in Houston houses over 2,000 scientists, with six of the Chief Scientist also being resident here. Several projects are being undertaken within the technical centre, including looking at new technologies which will enable the company to unlock trapped natural gas and also to develop catalysts which will enable them to speed up chemical reaction, thus making the overall process considerably more efficient and gaining access to natural gases that would otherwise be wasted (Sparrow and Ringland, 010). The centre in Amsterdam was the first technology centre established in 1914 and it currently works closely with local universities in order to share expertise; it has also been responsible for some major developments such as the ability to turn natural gas into transport fuel. Overall Rewards for Innovation Shell relies almost entirely on its ability to innovate and develop new efficiencies and new products within the oil and gas industry. By being one of the largest companies in the world, Shell is able to capitalise on this by investing in long-term development. Scientists are perceived to be vitally important to the organisation and the culture is very much towards achieving long-term development in line with the business strategy (Ortt, and Van der Duin, 2008). Vertical integration is also a key part of the strategy which enables the company to make the most of efficiency and share expertise and resources, where appropriate, thus providing greater technological innovation in the long run. An innovation strategy is central to Shell and has become an ingrained part of its mission, vision and values, as well as the underlying culture among the workforce. In doing so and by encouraging partnership with other organisations and higher education establishments, this innovation strategy is likely to be the key to the long-term success of this growing organisation. References Burdon, S., Chelliah, J. and Bhalla, A (2009) â€Å"Structuring enduring strategic alliances: the case of Shell Australia and Transfield Services†, Journal of Business Strategy, Vol. 30 Iss: 4, pp.42 – 51 Davenport, T., Leibold, M. and Voelpel. S (2007) Strategic Management in the Innovation Economy: Strategic Approaches and Tools for Dynamic Innovation Capabilities, John Wiley Sons. p.367 Maharaj, R and Herremans, I (2008) â€Å"Shell Canada: over a decade of sustainable development reporting experience†, Corporate Governance, Vol. 8 Iss: 3, pp.235 – 247 Ortt, J and Van der Duin, P (2008) â€Å"The evolution of innovation management towards contextual innovation†, European Journal of Innovation Management, Vol. 11 Iss: 4, pp.522 – 538 Shell, (2013) Available at http://www.shell.com/global/future-energy/innovation/researching-around-the-world.html Sparrow, O and Ringland, G (2010) â€Å"A system for continuous organizational renewal†, Strategy Leadership, Vol. 38 Iss: 4, pp.34 – 41 Verburg, R., Ortt, R and Dicke, W. (2006) Managing Technology and Innovation: An Introduction, Routledge p.341 How to cite Innovative Strategy in Royal Dutch Shell, Essay examples

Strange Things About City Life Essays - Fairlie Locomotive

Strange Things About City Life The differences between urbanites and country people are an old story in literature and commentary. Shakespeare often has a country bumpkin for audiences to laugh at in his plays. Children of all countries are told a bedtime story about the country mouse who comes to visit the city mouse. Common sayings often remind us of the ironies of life by contrasting rural and urban origins. It has been said in many languages that the eager country boy comes to the city to have a brilliant career for the express purpose of buying a nice house in the country in which to retire. In the two essays to be discussed in the following the authors contrast urban and rural life. Henry Fairlie (1924-1990) is British and writes in a manner that is often?tongue- in- cheek? to point to some of the amusing thing about the way that people take to city life. Underlying Fairlie's humor, however, is a longing for a vanished world in which there were sharp differences between city and country. Charles Creekmore (b .1945) brings a younger and much more American perspective to the same discussion. Where Fairlie appears to despair of the future of the human race which is jammed together into cities, Creekmore defends city life saying that it has more to offer and can bring out the best in people. Underneath the surface differences between Fairlie and Creekmore as they view the urbanite, however, is a single purpose which is to use the opposed realities of urban/rural life to make some interesting points about the nature of human beings. In his ?The Idiocy of Urban Life? Henry Fairlie puts together a long list of what is silly, humiliating, and even dangerous about life in the city. He begins with some sarcastic observations about the fact that the only truly civilized creatures in the city are the rats who come out at 4 AM and lick their paws after a night of eating garbage. After these inhabitants of the city go to bed, Fairlie says: ?the two legged inhabitants of the city begin to stir and it is they not the rats, who bring the rat race?(527). Then Fairlie proceeds to point to the most obvious paradox of rural/urban realities which is that of suburban life: ?The lunacy of modern life lies in the fact that most city dwellers who can do so try to live outside the city boundaries?(527). Fairlie finds it quite amusing that the masses of people who want to work in the city also want to stream out of the city at the end of the work day. He looks back with longing on a time when the captains of industry had their large m ansions on the hill to look down on their factories and their workers too. Now people want the excitement and high pay of the city during the daytime and the calm and quiet of the country at night, Fairlie says. The only problem this gets them into is that everybody wants this at the same time and the result is the traffic jam. Some people spend large parts of their lives in rooms on wheels (cars) while others are jammed up against one another in public transport. Fairlie seems to be saying that we would have a better world if the old boundary lines between city and country could be re-established. It is hard to believe that he means this. Fairlie is far too familiar with the tortures of the commuter's life to convince the reader that somehow he avoided the ?lunacy? of urban/suburban life. What Fairlie is really saying is that we human beings are the sort of creatures who ?want it all?, namely the sophisticated life of the urban worker and the relaxed life of the country gentleman. Charles Creekmore is more interested in what goes on in the city than in the ironies of urban life that are so difficult for Fairlie. He begins his picture of city life, however, with a picture that would make Fairlie laugh. He is lined up at a toll booth trying to get out of the city and one of the charming people who works there screams at