Bertrand Russell (1912) The Value of Philosophy and Brie Gertler Essay

Bertrand Russell (1912) The Value of Philosophy and Brie Gertler (2008) In Defense of Mind-Body Dualism - Essay Example Deliberating fundamental questions on the meaning of life, human nature, the cosmos, etc do not have any commercial value. But a life lived without such philosophical speculation is quite limited and enslaved. Philosophy helps us to broaden our intellectual and emotional horizons by subjugating our self-interest. It cultivates in us to focus on the non-Self, which liberates us from individual petty concerns and veers our consciousness toward bigger questions on the human condition. In other words, if specialized disciplines in science are preoccupied with the ‘how’ question, philosophy is concerned with the ‘why’ question. As Russell aptly terms it, philosophy helps us to move beyond the ‘here and now’. In doing so, it makes us separate from the particular circumstances of history and culture, thereby experiencing a universal mode of existence. Uncertainty is a basic feature of philosophy, where various answers are proposed for any given question. It is this element of uncertainty that distinguishes philosophy from other scientific disciplines. But instead of causing ambiguity, the open-ended speculations actually enhance our imagination and identify novel solutions. As the magisterium of our mind is expanded we become calmer and more secure. Unlike the defensive and anxious behaviour of the unenlightened person, the one well-versed with philosophy is able to negotiate all sorts of contingencies in life with relative ease. I totally agree with Russell’s assessment of the value of philosophy. I strongly believe that philosophy should be moved into mainstream academia, away from its perception as an esoteric pursuit. Today, almost every major problem in society is caused as a result of an unenlightened citizenry. With education increasingly becoming skill-oriented or vocational, generations of adults graduate from college without social consciousness. Studying philosophy mitigates this phenomenon by prompting us with valid questions. And in

Marketing Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Marketing Plan - Essay Example Starbucks recognizes itself as a family destination. It has been offering milk and hot chocolate for kids but of late, the company has recognized a growing market segment in teenagers. The teens even now walk in and indulge in 16-ounce Frappucinos that contains a high dose of caffeine (Linn 2007). Since there is a family destination and since teens frequent the stores, they must have products suitable for the age group. Moreover, McDonald's and Denny’s offer high quality coffee menus. To counter competition and to stay ahead of competitive tactics, Starbucks needs to be ahead of competitors. The company, by introducing innovating products for the new segment, could offer products that are healthy for the teens. This objective would be in line with their corporate vision of being a family destination. Moreover, one of their guiding principles in their mission statement is â€Å"Develop enthusiastically satisfied customers all of the time† (Kembell, Hawks, Kembel, Perry a nd Olsen 2002). SWOT and risk analysis Before introducing the product for the new target segment, SWOT analysis would help determine the risks involved. Strengths Global Coffee brand, strong reputation and good products and services It has 17,000 stores in 49 countries Focus on quality and experience rather than on price Strong brand image and a considerable market share.