Exploring the Determinants of the Demand for Pottery Products in Nigeria for National Economic Advancement (Published)
The obvious decline in the demand for pottery wares in Nigeria is worrisome as the trend is pushing many potters out of business. Meanwhile the nation needs to harness all its resources for economic growth, but the pottery, through which the resources could be exploited seem not to enjoy patronage. In this work, literatures were reviewed to fathom the determinant for the demand for pottery. It was discovered that the attributes of the pottery wares, price of alternative imported pottery wares, and that of vessels made of materials other than clay, effect of poor advertisement, taste, interest and orientation, and the income of the consumers are the major determinants for the demand for pottery wares. Homemade tiles, personalized pottery, and ceremonial wares are pots with unique selling points identified for the potters to engage in. The Nigerian potters needs to improve on the qualities of their products in order to compete favourably with imported wares and wares made of plastics and metals at the market.
Keywords: Attributes, Consumers, Demand, homemade tiles, pottery, unique selling point
The Analysis and Applicability of Cognitive Theories in Solving Inconsistency among Cognitive Elements (Published)
This paper critically analyses the major theoretical and empirical body of knowledge of the various schools of thought of cognitive consistency with a view of proffering a tripartite approach (involving the consumers, the organizations and the government) to solving inconsistency among cognitive elements (e.g., values, beliefs, knowledge and attitudes). The Heider’s balance theory, Osgood’s congruity model and Festinger’s cognitive dissonance theory were specifically looked into and assessed in terms of their real world application and/or empirical fertility. Each of these theorists emphasizes psychological tension and the urge to achieving consistency within and between the cognitive system and overt/covert behaviour.
Keywords: Cognitive Theories, Consumers, Government, Organizations