Jean coutu, pharmacie analysis

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INTRODUCTION

In 16, Jean Coutu and Louis Michaud began The Jean Coutu Discount Pharmacy in Montreal. In order to adapt to changing markets Jean Coutu revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry by introducing a retail chain that would provide pharmaceutical, parapharmaceutical and retail products at low prices, with superior customer service and extended business hours . Today, Jean Coutu is the largest pharmaceutical retail chain in Quebec. They are the second largest in Canada and the 8th largest in North America. Jean Coutu has emerged as one of the fastest growing pharmaceutical chains in their industry.

CLAIM STATEMENT

For a company to be considered a good long-term investment, many factors must be taken into account. The most important of these include growth, increasing market share, a sound theory of business, quality of customer service and steady growth in revenue and earnings. After extensive research it is apparent much of Jean Coutus success can be attributed to these main characteristics; therefore, making a great long-term investment.

EXPANSION

One of the obvious factors contributing to Jean Coutus increasing presence in the pharmaceutical retail industry is attributed to their ability to expand in both Canadian and American markets. Jean Coutu first entered the Canadian market in 16 as a single outlet. In 17, The Jean Coutu Discount Pharmacy began a franchising system in Quebec. At this time, they also opened a warehouse for centralized purchasing in order to lower expenses. In 18 and 18, Jean Coutu opened its first stores in both New Brunswick and Ontario. In 187, Jean Coutu crossed the border into northeastern U.S. states through its affiliates the Jean Coutu Group U.S.A. Inc. In 15, it made a strategic investment in buying 1 Brooks Drug stores located throughout New Englands seven states . Today Jean Coutu has as many as 5 outlets in Canada and 51 in America with a total of 17,650 employees. In addition, Jean Coutu has opened 40 clinics and one Sant Beaut in Canada. (Annual report, 000-001) In addition to this Coutu plans to open 16 more stores in the next year in Canada and the United States. (Jean Coutu profit jumps % in forth quarter, Jan 15 00).

As Alfred D. Chandler points out in his article titled "The Enduring Logic of Industrial Success", two of the main components to insure a companys success include economies of scale and economies of scope. Economies of scale includes expanding nationally and internationally in order to lower costs and breach new markets. Economies of scope refer to growth into related products. Jean Coutu has been able to achieve both economies of scale, by expanding their outlets in Canada and acquiring outlets in the U.S., and direct use of economies of scope by opening their clinics and the Sant Beaut which are both closely related to Jean Coutus speciality.

MARKET SHARE AND VISION

Their ability to grow in terms of scale and scope has provided them with a large market share. Market share is the size of the slice (share) of the pie (market) that a company maintains. As Chandler points out, this is a crucial component to a companys success. They are currently the 8th largest pharmaceutical retail chain in North America, nd largest in Canada and the largest chain in Quebec in terms of sales and number of outlets. Jean Coutu has been able to maintain this high market share by constantly monitoring the changes in the environment. In their 1-000 annual report, Jean Coutu reported that in 18 they were "pursuing modernization." They focussed on improvement of customer service and outlets and using state of the art technologies to optimize their business processes. As Peter Drucker mentions in his article "The Theory of the Business," one of things that makes a theory of business successful is its ability to change and adapt to the changing times. Jean Coutu, in their 000-001 annual report, discussed their new theory of business that would help them succeed in the changing markets. Jean Coutu emphasized the importance of having "a clear vision of an ever changing market." There are four main assumptions that Jean Coutu made about the changing markets.

1. Demography In 000, Statistics Canada estimated that 1.5% of the population was over 65 years old and that by 011 this percentage will increase to 14.5%. They also predicted that the population of people age 1 and under will increase to %. According to Jean Coutus 001 annual report, these two groups are the largest consumers for medication and their growth indicates a future increase in demand for pharmaceutical services. Coutu has set up an Internet site whereby customers are able to access prescription refills and online flyers of weekly specials and information on health, beauty and parenting just to name a few. (Appendix __) Jupiter Maedia Matrix predicated that prescription drug will become increasing popular web purchases. Part of the reason for the projected increase of sales is largely due to the elderly who are more likely to purchase prescription drugs. According to Cassar, 16% of the on-line shopping population are seniors. As the elderly have already become more comfortable with using the Internet, this service provides a great convenience for them. They can simply pre-order their drugs and avoid waiting in line. Jean Coutu is anticipating the increase in demand for pharmaceuticals and is therefore, is in a better position to serve these growing markets.

. New Drugs With the ongoing research and improvements in medicine, there are constantly new drugs being introduced into the market, either as prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs. For that reason, pharmacists are faced with increased complexities in preparing and formulating new medications; as well as, dealing with customers increasing number of questions. Pharmacists must constantly update their current knowledge to keep up with these demands.

. Access to Health Care Its becoming more and more difficult and expensive for people to receive medical attention from doctors. Because of Jean Coutus highly skilled pharmacists, more and more people are turning to them for advice. In an interview by Yannick Clrouin, Francois Coutu, Director President and Chief Operating Officer of Jean Coutu, was asked if the lack of pharmacists was a problem that Jean Coutu faced. He answered that it definitely was a problem in both the US and Canada because the demand for pharmacists is great. However, he said that Jean Coutu was taking measures to mend the situation. Jean Coutu donated $1.5 million to lUniversit de Montral as part of a total donation for the construction of new pavilions. These pavilions will be location for faculty of pharmaceutical studies and for cancer research. This is a major attempt to research new drugs and to educate future pharmacists. The number of students to be pharmacists would increase from 660 to 1000.

4. Urban Development With their close watch on the changing needs of the population, Jean Coutu is constantly conforming to the specific needs in different geographical areas. They go about this by modifying store layouts and locations to better serve the increasing market for pharmaceuticals, parapharmaceuticals and the other services they provide. For example, Jean Coutu has opened many pharmacies along with clinics to make picking up prescriptions more convenient and help fulfill clients medical needs. In addition, the increased demand for beauty and skincare products by "shopping mall clientele" prompted them to open their Sant Beaut store.

These four assumptions about the environment play a major role in their increasing market share. The overall number of prescriptions filled in the US and Canada increased by 5.6% and 7% respectively, in the year 000. Because Jean Coutu anticipated to the growing needs of the market, they were able to respond to those needs and have thereby exceeded the Canadian average for growth for filling prescriptions.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Jean Coutu has demonstrated that their customers are their main priority. For example, in November 000 when Health Canada cautioned people against using any drugs containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), Jean Coutu responded by immediately removing all these drugs from their shelves. They posted a list of all the drugs containing PPA on their website in order to inform their consumers. Jean Coutu also had a full, one page ad in the Gazette in which they announced that any products containing PPA could be returned for a full refund no matter where they were purchased or how much of it was left. This is just one example of their excellent customer service. It is therefore no surprise that Jean Coutu was named Most Admired Company In Quebec for the third consecutive year (In a Leger and Leger poll conducted for Commerce magazine in March 000).

In their book Built to Last, Collins and Porras stated that visionary companies are those who place the interests of their customers before profits. They relate how Johnson & Johnson proved their purpose beyond profit when faced with the 18 Tylenol crisis. In 18, after 7 deaths, it was found that certain bottles of Tylenol had been laced with cyanide. Johnson & Johnson promptly recalled all Tylenol products from across the entire U.S. When it concerns their customers health, Jean Coutu has demonstrated their commonality with this visionary company.

Jean Coutu also serve their clients by fulfilling their need for easy and convenient shopping and services. They have already set tools in place to accommodate the elderly, which is a big portion of their customers. Jean Coutu has set up a phone line and Internet service from which their customers can pre-order their prescription refills. They also offer several in-store services such as a photo lab, postal services, pickup windows and private consultation at the pharmacy counter. The Jean Coutu outlets come equipped with a health centre where customers can check their blood pressure. On certain days of the week there is a nurse present where customers can take a variety of health tests ranging from a sugar level count to a Strep throat culture test.

According to Collins and Porras, visionary companies are never satisfied at their present state and always strive to be better. The Jean Coutu group is constantly striving to achieve greatness through developing new ideas and fresh approaches. They make use of new technologies, such as the Internet, as well as keeping a sound and effective internal environment and ensuring the highest quality of customer service.

INSIDE THE JEAN COUTU GROUP

Jean Coutu devotes large portions of its resources to personnel training. Employees at the head offices, distribution centres and pharmacies have the option of attending the PJC Training School, which offers "proficiency programs in all job categories." In 000-001 alone, ,861 employees from both head offices and franchised pharmacies completed at least one of these courses. This shows a collective desire to continually improve the company and their services on behalf of the employees. As Collins and Porras mentioned, companies such as IBM, Walt Disney Company and Nordstrom require their employees to attend orientation programs that teach their employees the traditions, history, company ideologies and behavioural norms. These programs are designed to not only increase effective customer service, but to help create a cult-like culture. Although Jean Coutu cannot be seen as having a cult-like culture, they are benefiting from the increased dedication these programs have provided.

In the 001 annual report, the board of directors acknowledged the importance of dedication to the company. "Our ongoing prosperity, year after year, is largely due to the outstanding work of all our personnel… They personify the experience we have patiently accumulated that now serves us so well."(source)

BY THE NUMBERS

In order to determine if a company is a good long-term investment we must first define long term. In a personal interview with Martin Troppe, manager of Eport Capital Management Fund, he stated that a long-term investment is a 5 to 10 year investment. The financial report is a good source for investors to determine whether it will be a good long-term investment. Some of the most important aspects of the financial report include, but are not limited to, revenues, net earnings, assets, liabilities, short term and long-term debt. Some other important figures to take into consideration are the price earnings ratio and dividends.

Jean Coutu can be considered a good long-term investment for several reasons. First and foremost, Jean Coutu has experienced consistent growth in their revenue. Their 16 total revenue was $1,614,11,000 and grew year over year. In 001 they reported record total revenues of $,4,844,000. Second, their net earnings, the earnings after all expenses are paid, more then doubled from $46,67,000 in 16 to a record $105,41,000 in 001. Third, their total current assets (assets that can or will be converted into cash quickly) increased over the years to a record $451,600,000. Their total current liabilities (the money the company expects to pay out within the next year) decreased from $17,800,000 at the end of May 000 to $17,500,000 at the end of May 001. This leaves Jean Coutu with an attractive asset to liability ratio of over 1. This is an indication the company has the potential to expand as they can use their assets to further increase their market share. Fourth, aside from the fact that their short term and long-term debt have both decreased since their last years annual report, they are both considerably small. Jean Coutus short-term debt is at $0,400,000 compared to $4,000,000 the year before and long-term debt is at $80,600,000 compared to $4,600,000 in 000. (All the above from Jean Coutus financial report, 1-000 and 000-0001) By keeping low debt Jean Coutu will be able to use more of their earnings for further expansion.

The price earnings ratio (P/E) is the price the stock is trading at divided by its earnings per share. Jean Coutu is trading at a P/E ratio of .17. (Yahoo finance, 00)Mary Rowland, a well-respected business analyst points out that the P/E ratio in isolation might not mean much, but you can compare it to that of other companies. (Rowland, 14) CVS, which is the largest pharmaceutical retail chain in North America, is trading at a P/E ratio of 4.45. (Yahoo finance, 00) This means that when purchasing CVS stock you will be paying a higher premium for their stock, making Jean Coutu a more appealing investment. Jean Coutu has been paying a dividend, which is the percentage of earnings the company pays out to its investors. From 16 through 001 their dividend payouts per share have been 6 cents, 7 cents, 8 cents, 10 cents, 1 cents and 16 cents, respectively. (PJC financial report, 1-000 and 000-001) Although their payout is considerably lower than their counterpart CVS who paid a dividend of cents in 001 Edward Lupin writes

A company paying no or low dividends is really saying to its investors-its owners, "we believe we can earn more, and return more value to shareholders by retaining the earnings, by putting that money to work, than by paying out and not having it to invest in new plants or goods or salaries." And having said that, they are expected to earn a good return on not only their previous equity but on the increased equity represented by retained earnings.

COUNTER ARGUMENTS

If you are like most people you might wonder, what about Wal-Mart? They want to start taking a large portion of the pharmaceutical business how will that affect my investment?

Actually this question was asked to Francois Coutu in an interview with Yannik Clerouin. His answer was short and sweet. Wal-Mart is an excellent retailer, however he finds that the Jean Coutu concept is tailored to a more diverse clientele and this should guarantee its place in the sun. (La deuxieme offensive de Jean Coutu, April 001) (www.webfin.com) Further Mr. Coutu added that they would continue its aggressive pricing plan in order to compete with Wal-Mart stores Inc. and other big chains.

Although rapid growth into other markets may indicate a highly profitable investment, wouldnt Peter F. Drucker, author of The Theory of the Business, believe that rapid growth might be a sign of trouble? True, for Drucker, rapid growth may indicate that the company has outgrown its original mission. However we found that Jean Coutus mission is timeless and adapts to the ever-changing needs of the customer. (appendix 1)

CONCLUSION

After extensive analysis of Jean Coutus business practices, we have found them to be in direct accordance with Chandler, Drucker and Collins and Porrass description of the innermost workings of a successful company. We believe Jean Coutus promising and steady growth as well as their ability to expand and adapt to the changing needs of their customers gives them the edge over the competition. You may look at it either from the financial perspective or according to the business experts of our time but you must agree on two things, Jean Coutu was a clock builder, and that Jean Coutu is an unmistakable preference for a long term investment.

need graphs of prescription filled available in financial report on web site

graph of increasion revenues for past few years available in annual report

cover page

assembly of appendices

bibliography

table of contents

and a nice but easily excitable monkey

That however, is by no means the extent of Jean Coutus charitable donations. According to CanadianBusiness.com Coutu donates medical equipment and clean drinking water to developing countries such as Mali, Haiti and India.

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Social theories of science (sociology)

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The aim of this essay is to compare and contrast the social theories of science as proposed by Merton, Barnes and Feyerabend; and to determine if these theories support the suggestion that science is part of Webers rationalisation process. In order to achieve this aim, Webers account of formal rationalisation will be summarised. Additionally, Webers paradigm case, the structure of modern bureaucracies, will be used as an illustration of this process. Evaluation of the social science theories as proposed by Merton, Barnes, and Feyerabend will follow with conclusions being made for each theory as they appear in the text.

Webers concept of rationalisation can be referred to as a variety of processes that scrutinise all human action reducing it to calculable, measurable and controllable regulation; its main purpose being to reduce inefficiency, waste and overcapacity (Ambercrombie, Hill, & Turner, 184; Brubaker, 15). One specific form of rationalisation, formal rationality, is unique to the modern West. Although no specific definition is given for this term, Ritzer (1, p.4) suggests that formal rationality "means that the search by people for the optimal means to a given end is shaped by rules, regulations, and larger social structures". In suggesting how these actions are exhibited within society, one can refer to Webers fourfold topology of actions (cited in Lee & Newby, 18). Of specific relevance is the notion of Zweckrational or rational goal-oriented action which, as suggested by Lee and Newby (18, p.176), "involves individuals constructing their own ideal-type in the form of a calculated predictive plan". It consists of actions that are rationally evaluated and executed in order to achieve particular goals with the foresight to identify potential consequences or conflict before action commences.

An illustration of formal rationality, identified by Weber as a paradigm case, is the structure of modern bureaucracies. Zweckrational or rational goal-oriented action (i.e., formal rationality) is exhibited through the conduct of individuals within the bureaucratic system. Previously these individuals had to identify and seek out for themselves their own means to a given end, sometimes with the added assistance of larger value systems for example, religious institutions. The process of formal rationality as exhibited in modern bureaucracies, replaces this process. The optimum means are predetermined and have been institutionalised in rules, regulations and structures. This means individuals are simply required to follow these rules, regulations, and predetermined processes in order to meet the optimal means to an end. As such, there is less room for individual choice in how means to ends are met (Ritzer, 1).

Having considered Webers notion of formal rationalisation, we now turn to the social science theories. Robert Merton is considered one of the founding fathers of the science theories of sociology. He argues that scientific knowledge is superior to other forms of knowledge; and that its high regard is justifiable because of the rigorous testing and scrutiny scientific knowledge receives (cited in Jacobs, 17). In his essay 'The Normative Structure of Science (14; cited in Merton, 17), Merton describes his ethos of science as being comprised of a complex system of values and norms. These values and norms are expressed within society via scientists conduct (scientific conscience) and legitimised by institutional values and social mores. These norms include rational; empirical; methodological; and efficient actions that strive to extend certified knowledge. His ethos of science is comprised of four institutional imperatives universalism, communism, disinterestedness, and organised scepticism. These notions are addressed next.Cheap Custom Essays on social theories of science (sociology)

The underlying logic of universalism is to allow for the introduction of new scientific knowledge without bias or reference to the colour or creed of the scientists advancing such knowledge. Although this is the experience for democratic societies, some non-democratic societies allow discrimination, bias, and ethnocentrisms to impede the merits of scientific advances (Merton, 17).

The communal ownership of scientific knowledge is referred to by Merton as communism. This knowledge is often the product of social collaboration, and as such, these findings are shared with the community (Merton, 17). This concept promotes and rewards "original" scientific work through recognition and esteem of the researchers. This is why there is much competition among scientists to be the first to make a discovery, or breakthrough in their research.

Disinterestedness refers to the institutional control that ensures scientific work is pure and empirical. Its main objective is the prevention of scientific fraud and upholding the integrity of scientific research and the researchers themselves. Ones work being ones passion, curiosity and striving for the benefit of humanity are said to be attributes of scientists. The role of scientific institutions ensures these standards are adhered to with non-adherence resulting in criticism and sanctioning (Merton, 17).

Finally, organised scepticism refers to the way scientists address social phenomenon. Whereas other institutions (e.g., religious, economic, or the state) may view social phenomenon from a traditional, customary, or religious point of view, scientists are empirical, logical and critical in their assessment of such issues. Because of their approach, it is not uncommon for conflict to eventuate between scientific and religious, economic, or state institutions. Such conflict is most likely to occur in situations where scientific research is being conducted in areas where pre-existing institutional attitudes and authority has previously been prominent (Merton, 17).

In summary, Merton is suggesting that science is highly rationalised and that scientists behave in a rational manner. The norms of science ensure that scientists conform to certain standards such as having a clear aim for their research, carrying this research out in an empirical way, and critically analysing their findings before deciding if the data supports or contradicts a theory. Thus, it can be argued that Mertons account of science strives for the same goals as Webers rationalisation process.

In his monograph "About Science", Barnes (185) suggests that in an ideal world science would be rationalised, but that we do not live in a rationalised world. Instead, our concepts of science can be addressed by answering the questions 'who counts, 'what counts, and 'how are those who are counted perceived. Although Barnes accepts that formal rationality is a part of science, he also argues that there are additional factors, these being tradition and authority. Barnes commences his discussion by giving his account on 'who counts and possesses credibility in science. For Barnes, only individuals who have specialist 'scientific training or are known for their prestigious scientific findings are considered credible authorities on scientific issues. One classic example is the case of the prestigious physicist, Lord Rayleigh, who presented one of his papers for reading at a meeting of the British Association in 1888 (cited in Barnes, 185). In the submission process, the physicists name became detached from the paper and a referee who read the paper dismissed its content as "nothing but nonsense" (cited in Barnes, 185, p.56). When it was later discovered that Rayleigh was the author of the paper, it was reconsidered and accepted for reading at the meeting.

In addressing the question 'what counts, Barnes is referring to the introduction of new ideas in science that are considered 'unorthodox, or incompatible with existing knowledge. New ideas and research are more likely to be accepted and viewed as credible if they have the support of specialised, senior or prestigious scientists. Thus peer support and pre-existing knowledge, appear to have a direct impact upon how research is accepted and thought about. An example of such a situation is the Mpemba effect (cited in Barnes, 185). This research produced results that were inconsistent with current scientific knowledge and as such has never been regarded as a fully accredited research report. The reaction to this phenomenon gives illustration as to why Barnes interpretation of science can not be considered formally rational. The research findings of the Mpemba effect were merely disregarded and never fully accredited as opposed to being critically analysed and empirically scrutinised elements of rational scientific practice.

It is further suggested by Barnes (185), that tradition and authority are central factors in the advancement of scientific knowledge. Illustration is given to this proposal in Barnes suggestion that practitioners of science are strongly influenced by their education and training. Furthermore, the teachers and curriculum (both considered sources of authority) educate students in accordance to preconceived, traditional doctrines. Generally students are encouraged to accept this material as 'gospel and are not encouraged to challenge either the curriculum or their predecessors.

Another issue that Barnes addresses is the amount of trust and authority society invests in scientists. Barnes illustrates this extent of trust and authority through the mention of Milgrams "shock therapy" experiments (cited in Barnes, 185). In this study, Milgram demonstrated the extent participants would go to in order to conform to and obey "scientists" (they were actually stooges) requests. The experiment illustrates the potency of trust and authority ordinary individuals place in scientists and additionally highlights the potential dangers such trust could produce.

Although, as Barnes has suggested, there is potential for this trust and authority to be abused, he also recognises its necessity in society by identifying how difficult it would be for society to operate without scientists having these traits. In consideration of the roles, scientists fulfil within our society (e.g., their role in medical institutions; their participation in courts; their role in military defence, etc.) it can be seen how difficult it would be for a scientist to communicate information to other members of society and for this information to be accepted as credible without trust and authority. As Barnes says "trust and authority are the wires of a great system of communication which makes the specialised knowledge of society widely credible and widely usable" (Barnes, 185, p.86).

From Barnes account, it is difficult to see how science can be likened to Webers rationalisation process. Firstly, only the prestigious are recognised as producing credible ideas, with advances in science more likely to be accepted if supported by a scientist of high standing. In other words, scientists are not judged by the merits of their research, but by their status within the scientific community. Secondly, the doctrines of science are firmly based on traditional, preconceived ideas. These ideas are supported by teachers and reflected in the curriculum in teaching institutions. Not only do students readily accept the curriculum as it is presented to them (which is often a one sided account of an issue), they are not encouraged to challenge these doctrines. Finally, in addressing how scientists are regarded by society, Barnes account is contrary to the rationalist approach of science which would have the public critically examine and question the policy recommendations of scientists, and their role in society.

Like Barnes, Feyerabend places science within the realms of tradition but does so in a rather outlandish fashion. In his essay collection "Science in a Free Society" Feyerabend states that a free society "is a society in which all traditions have equal rights and equal access to the centres of power" (178, p.106). By this statement, Feyerabend refers to and criticises the excessive power and authority invested in science by our society. His approach is that of a relativist as he proposes there is no criterion or method of measurement to evaluate the worthiness of any single tradition (e.g., science) above all others and as such, all traditional approaches should be considered "on a par".

With reference to how scientific authority is dominant within our society, Feyerabend suggests that individuals should not only have the right to accept and practice whatever ideals appeal to them, they should also have the power to form and oversee the operations of democratically constituted committees. When confronted with the issue of how "laymen" would address issues requiring specialised knowledge, Feyerabend responded that maturity, which is learned through active participation in the decision making process, is fundamentally more important than specialised knowledge. In fact Feyerabend suggests that this maturity should be sought after even if it means the success rate of decisions is lowered (Feyerabend, 178).

In presenting his views on the expertise of scientists, Feyerabend (178) argues that the opinions of scientists are often prejudiced and untrustworthy. Scientists often disagree with one another in both theory and application; however, when they do agree it is often for the wrong reasons (e.g., critics being silenced in order to preserve the reputation of science as a source of reliability and trust). Another occurrence is that they may accept a theory that is mistaken, whilst "laymen" attempt to expose such mistakes and falsities and allow unorthodox theories to be explored. Feyerabend continues that in some circumstances "specialised knowledge" is the result of gossip or rumours that were previously taken up by someone of authority and have thus become part of the traditional beliefs upheld by science. As such, it is suggested that "laymen" should, through democratically elected committees, evaluate with "painstaking scrutiny" the evidence presented by scientists and decide for themselves if scientists truly deserve the status they hold within our society.

Feyerabend is also critical of the reasons that science is considered the "superior" way of acquiring knowledge these being use of the "correct" method; and results that demonstrate the effectiveness of this method. The "scientific method" is a process referred to by scientists as a universal and stable method that measures adequacy. In arguing against the effectiveness of this method, Feyerabend states "there is no 'scientific method; there is no single procedure, or set of rules that underlies every piece of research and guarantees that is 'scientific and, therefore, trustworthy" (178, p.8). Although Feyerabend agrees that science has made significant contributions for the advancement of our society, and that its continued dominance suggests it has been more successful than other traditions of thought and practice, he doesnt rule out that other traditions have nothing to offer contemporary society. According to him, they have simply (and perhaps temporarily) 'run out of steam. He further argues that the domination of science exists because institutional measures have ensured the continued suppression of alternative cultures and traditions of thought. An illustration of this is the revival of support for traditional medicine in China. Feyerabend was able to show that when given a fair chance, "non-scientific ideologies, practices, theories, traditions can become powerful rivals and can reveal major shortcomings of science if only they are given a fair chance to compete" (Feyerabend, 185, p.10).

Feyerabends account of the social theory of science suggests that science is based in tradition and additionally is influenced by gossip, rumour, dogma, and pressure to conform all non-rational elements. He also argues that scientists readily accept, without challenge, the scientific theories presented to them as part of their training, and additionally they tend to ignore research findings that contradict widely accepted theories. In consideration of these factors, it can clearly be seen that Feyerabends account does not suggest that science is a part of Webers rationalisation process.

In summary, it was established that in order for a social theory of science to be likened to Webers rationalisation process it would have to be highly rational. This would include being able to demonstrate an ability to meet predetermined goals of research in an empirical, efficient and rational manner whilst adhering to the rules and regulated processes of science. In comparison of the theories presented by Merton, Barnes, and Feyerabend it can clearly be seen that Mertons social theory of science meets these demands thus suggesting that science is part of Webers rationalisation process; but the theories proposed by Barnes and Feyerabend do not.

References

Ambercrombie, N., Hill, S., and Turner, B.S. 184, The Penguin Dictionary of Sociology rd edn, Penguin Books, Harmondsworth, Middlesex.

Barnes, B. 185, About Science, Basil Blackwell, Oxford.

Brubaker, R. 184, The limits of Rationality An Essay on the social and Moral Thought of Max Weber, Allen & Unwin, London.

Feyerabend, P. 178, Science in a Free Society, New Left Books, London.

Jacobs, S. 17, Science and social theory, Social Theory Study Guide, Deakin University, Geelong.

Lee, D. and Newby, H. 18, The problem of Sociology, Unwin Hyman, London.

Ritzer, G. 16, Sociological Theory, 4th edn, McGraw-Hill, New York.

Please note that this sample paper on social theories of science (sociology) is for your review only. In order to eliminate any of the plagiarism issues, it is highly recommended that you do not use it for you own writing purposes. In case you experience difficulties with writing a well structured and accurately composed paper on social theories of science (sociology), we are here to assist you. Your cheap custom college paper on social theories of science (sociology) will be written from scratch, so you do not have to worry about its originality.

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The miller's tale

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Unit Assignment 4

1.Beginning with a consideration of lines 680 to the end of the tale, 'He cogheth first, and knokketh therwithal/Upon the windowe, right as he dide er, explore the ways in which Chaucer uses language to create a comic effect and consider how effectively the Tale is drawn to its conclusion. In your answer you will need to make detailed reference to the form, style and semantic, phonological and lexical features of language which help to shape the meaning of the text.

.How effectively do you feel Chaucer maintains the readers interest through his particular narrative style?

In your answer you should make detailed reference to the form, style and use of semantic, grammatical and phonological features.

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The Millers Tale

By Geoffrey Chaucer

The Millers Tale is a Tale of adultery and humour. Written by Geoffrey Chaucer around 10 it is a small part of a much larger collection of tales called The Canterbury Tales.

When looking at the form and style of The Millers Tale we can see that Chaucer is using iambic pentameter- that is the ten-syllable line. This was the form normally used in Chaucers time.

Chaucer also chooses to write in rhyming couplets which creates a kind of sing-song rhythm to the piece, giving it a musical quality when read out loud 'My love-longing, for yet I shall not misse, That at the leste way U shall hir kisse.

The tale beings with The General Prologue, the Knight has just finished his tale and the Monk is next in line due to social preference to go next but a very drunken Miller interrupts and starts to tell his tale. He apologises and explains not to blame him for the foulness of the tale instead blames the ale he is drinking. 'And therefore if that I misspeke or saye, Wite it the ale of Southwerk. Here the Miller is showing the first signs of humour by making a joke about his daytime drunkenness.

The Miller begins to tell his tale of an old, gullible carpenter called John who married a young girl called Alisoun who was only eighteen years of age. The carpenter is a very foolish old man and is scared of Alisoun betraying him so he keeps her trapped in a loveless marriage. Humour is present here because we can see the carpenters fault that if he keeps his wife trapped she will betray him.

A student called Nicholas takes up lodgings in one of the carpenters spare rooms, he takes a liking to Alisoun and begins to try and woo her with his intelligence and knowledge of astrology. A young parish clerk called Absolon also takes a liking to Alisoun and makes his affection known to her. Alisoun decides to fall for Nicholas and they plan to have a secret affair.

Nicholas pretends to John that a flood is coming and that he must attach three tubs to the roof in order for them all to be saved. Here Nicholas is making a fool of the carpenter and he is falling for it, Nicholas shows his ruthless side and we tend to think that maybe Nicholas has experience in this situation before and he is aware of secret love affairs and deception. The carpenter rushes and assembles the tubs and while the carpenter is asleep in his tub Alisoun and Nicholas spend the night together.

Throughout the Tale, Chaucer uses many styles, techniques and phonological features to enhance the humour and sexuality of the Tale. The Millers Tale is a poem that is full of action and its fast narrative pace reflects this. Chaucer does this by using short and snappy sentences 'hir body gent. In the description of Alisoun we will see that Chaucer uses animal imagery. We are told, 'As any wesel hir body gent and small. Its ironic that Chaucer has got away with liking her to a animal as today it would be see as an insult.

Line 680 to the end of the tale really brings the tale to a close and contains the punch line to an on going joke. The end of the poem also shows how the poor old carpenter is made a mockery of as his neighbours laugh at his misfortune. Absolon goes to visit Alisoun to declare his love for her and calls at her window asking her for a kiss 'This wol I yiven thee, if thou me kisse. Naughty Alisoun agrees to the kiss as long as he agrees to leave her alone, she sticks her backside out of the window and Absolon kisses it. Feeling very angry and humiliated Absolon swears to seek revenge and goes to the Blacksmith and borrows a red-hot poker. Here Absolon questions his faith and swears himself to Devil. Absolon goes back to the window and asks for another kiss this time Nicholas sticks his backside out of the window and farts in Absolons face nearly blinding him 'This Nicholas anon let flee fart. Here Chaucer uses comic effect to add yet more humour to the poem, he does this by describing Nicholass outrageous behaviour with vivid descriptions of the fart which he likens it to a thunder clap 'As greet as it has been a thunder-dent. Absolon angry as ever, sticks the red-hot poker in Nicholas backside which makes him scream and wake up the carpenter, who panics and thinks the flood has come so he cuts himself down from the roof and crashes to the ground breaking his arm, Chaucer here uses the noise of the crash of the tub to signalise the end of the poem but also the end of the joke and the joke is on him. All of his neighbours gather round and have a good laugh at his expense.

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