Report on Cultures Values

A culture’s values are attributes that demonstrate what most members of a culture believe in and that control their actions. Studies confirm that most values are learned. This report analyses some of the studies and explains the role played by culture in influencing crucial decision-making in business and the society. It explains the extent to which values are culture-specific. In addition, this report uses specific examples to illustrate that most values are culture-specific; however, it also illustrates that some values may be innate.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Report on Culture’s Values specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Some important findings show that values are culture-specific. Maloney (2009) carried out a research and discovered that human beings learn everything from others. In his book, Maloney says that human beings are not born with acquaintance or traits. He says we acquire them fro m our neighbourhood. Maloney argues that if a child were to be born in the United Kingdom and be exchanged with another in Ethiopia, he would grow to be a unique individual. For example, his diet, dressing, entertainment would be unique. The researcher say healthcare, living-conditions, and lifestyles may influence a person’s appearance, body functionality, and thoughts. He says that the environment in which a person lives determines his/her height. A part from genetics, an individual’s height is determined by quality of food, healthcare, physical environment, among others. Notably, the environment also determines the opinions and beliefs of an individual. Additionally, other researchers have said that human beings are social animals that depend on behavioural modification, which determine how they develop cognitively (Hofstede, 1980). Human beings are programmed to emulate actions from other cultures. However, it is also true that we cannot interfere with pre-existing interpersonal behaviours. Experts agree there are different programming layers that help to develop our character. Nevertheless, there are no people with the same programming. The difference mean even those living in the same environment cannot be completely identical. Everyone gathers information from different viewpoints. However, researchers also say that residents of an area often develop common values (Hofstede, 1980). They commonly develop behavioural aspects relating to religion, politics, ethnicity, and racism, among others. No one is born either a Christian or Muslim. Religious groups usually live in different regions. For example, when Muslims live in an area, Catholics will live in a different area. Children born and living in these areas usually emulate the same cultural values and behaviours. Children’s behaviours are influenced by circumstances in which they are born. A baby cannot be born with bad behaviours. A baby, therefore, is not born with bad characters. Advertising Looking for essay on cultural studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More At the same time, there are innate cultures. Holway(2012) says that the innate values form a natural moral sense that helps a person to recognize what is good or bad. The expert illustrates this by using an example of a child who says to another,’ come on, you promised’. This, he says, shows that children have natural moral sense. He explains that the statement appeals to the value of honesty, which people the world over would accept since they are born with natural values. Culture has influence on all values relating to social and economic aspects. In the heath sector, for example, it has contributed in shaping methodologies of treatment and communication that different communities prefer. Research shows that Asians and Pacific Islanders have cultural values that determine how they should be given medical attention. Their extended families have great influence on the treatment process. The key decision maker and representative is usually the oldest male in the family. They believe that the respect for the entire family is of more importance than that for an individual. The authority of the elderly is usually unquestioned. This culture does not entertain direct confrontation but advocates for harmony. Therefore, due to the need to respect the authority, there is often very little confrontation between patients and healthcare professionals. Nevertheless, lack of confrontation does not imply that patients always agree to comply with the doctor’s instructions (How Culture Influences Health Beliefs, n. d.). Cultural differences also have impact on business. Businesspersons often deal with cultural challenges while marketing their products. A cross-cultural analysis on the effect of culture on marketing revealed that implementation of public relations cannot succeed if the locals’ culture is not reco gnized. Pepsodent Company, for example, attempted to market its toothpaste in Southeastern Asia by emphasizing, â€Å"It whitens your teeth.†The marketing plan did not bear fruit. The problem is that it did not analyze the cross-cultural differences prior to beginning the work. It should have known that the natives love blackened teeth (Different Cultures – Different PR Campaigns, 2006). Business Communication in India is also influenced with cultural values of the locals. For example, Indians commonly do business with those that they trust. They understand the value communal trust. Therefore, it is advisable to go through third party introduction when you want to trade with them (India – Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette, n.d.). Evidently, researchers agree that most values are learned. A business can therefore develop its corporate culture by exposing its employees to the right trading environment.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Report on Culture’s Values specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Presentation of Report on Culture’s Values Introduction A culture’s values are attributes that show what most members of a culture believe in and guide their decisions Studies show that most valued are learned Learned Values Some researchers say human beings learn everything from others (Maloney, 2009) Maloney illustrates this by saying if a newborn baby in Ethiopia is transferred to the United Kingdom, he/she will adopt unique values that do not conform to those of native Ethiopians. According to Hofstede(1980), human beings are social animals.- they depend on behavioural modification to live. Naturally, they are programmed to copy lifestyles and actions from other social groups. One cannot interfere with pre-existing interpersonal behaviours- those dwelling in the same locations usually develop common values-but not completely similar values (Hofst ede, 1980). Commonly shared behavioural aspects include religion, political views, and racism – children born in the affected regions usually copy the people’s lifestyles. Factors that influence change in cultural values are healthcare, living conditions, life-style, among others. Values that are not learned (innate values) A few scholars accept that there are innate values Holway(2012) says the values form natural moral sense. He adds that children understand the value of justice and honesty- they freely complain when other are denied justice. People the world over accept the values of honesty and justice- People accept the values everywhere because they are in born (Holway, 2012). Impact of Cultural Values Cultural values influence decision making in all levels of life. Decision in the health, business, or education sector are influenced by cultural values Illustration of the Impact (Using different cultural groups) Asians have a culture that gives authority to leaders, therefore, undermining consultation efforts between doctors and patients. Pepsodent Company tried to mark it toothpaste in Southeastern Asia and failed.-Its marketers did not know the locals love to have black teeth. Business relations and communication in India reflects on the culture of honesty and mutual respect. A foreign investor ought to demonstrate honesty and trustworthiness to succeed Note: a few values are innate. A majority are learned. References Different Cultures – Different PR Campaigns. (2006). Free Online Dating Service SearchYourLove. Web. Hofstede, G. H. (1980). Culture’s Consequences: International Differences in Work- Related Values. Beverly Hills, Calif.: Sage Publications. Holway, R. (2012). Becoming Achilles child-sacrifice, War, and Misrule in the Iliad and Beyond. Lanham, Md.: Lexington Books. How Culture Influences Health Beliefs. (n.d.). Euromed Info — Gesundheit und Vorsorge im ÃÅ"berblick. Web. India – Language, C ulture, Customs and Etiquette. (n.d.). Intercultural Communication . Web.Advertising Looking for essay on cultural studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Maloney, M. (2009). Human Behavior. Web. This essay on Report on Culture’s Values was written and submitted by user Laurel Miles to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Royal Oman Police Traffic Safety

The Royal Oman Police Traffic Safety Introduction A social problem can be defined in different ways. Definitions by policy analysts have momentous consequences, both political and economical. An accepted definition of a social problem will dictate the actions taken to solve it. An incorrect definition mandates an inappropriate policy instrument to address it and therefore government policy is likely to be ineffective.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Royal Oman Police’ Traffic Safety specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Thus, the correct problem definition is the key element to policy analysts’ success in policymaking. David and Roger (1993) suggested this by stating that â€Å"problem definition is fundamental to public policymaking, intertwined as it is with the political process throughout the activities of issue initiation, program design and legislative enactment† (p. 58). They also argued that problem definition was a political expression that provided the answers to all essential questions regarding policy. Nature of the Traffic Safety Problem in Oman Severity Severity depicts the seriousness of the problem of traffic safety and its consequences. The occurrence of traffic accidents in Oman has helped in putting this problem in the limelight and give it public attention. Websites such as the Salim and Salimah (2005) ‘Safe and Sound Road Safety’ rules, the royal Oman police traffic safety and social websites like the Traffic Safety Oman Facebook page have acted as tools to show the severity of this problem. Admitting the existence of the problem, the policy analysts officially characterized it as a catastrophic and noted that it deserves taking corrective measures. This has led to the formation of the road traffic institute of Oman, which trains drivers and provides driving test exams. Incidence The scope of people affected and those at risk of being affected by this problem is probably the mo st contributing factor to making the definition of this problem less debatable. The problem of traffic safety is growing and at an exponential rate. For example, in 92 road accidents were injured about 39 people. PDO and the ROP are aimed at changing behavior of drivers and ultimately saving lives.Advertising Looking for essay on public administration? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Novelty When a traffic serious mishap occurs, the attention it gets is overwhelming. However, as time passes, it fades from the public and media and policy analysts’ minds. This is only true to that particular mishap because another one occurs almost immediately or even before the public recovers from the first one. Actually, traffic safety is an issue that lacks a particular solution, only tips and bits. These include mandatory wearing of seat belts, obeying road signs and traffic lights and not driving while being drunk (obeying traffic rules). However, this only helps in reducing the damage caused by an accident or tries to prevent the problem. Thus, tension arises as the issue is publicized and onlookers expect resolution, yet no consensus exists within the political system on how to tackle the problem (David Roger, 1993). Although these solutions bring about the unnecessary and impractical concerns such as traffic lights, it can cause traffic jams that are unnecessary. Safety belts may lock and when a car is on fire can trap people in a vehicle. According to a survey conducted, results suggest that Oman has one of the highest rates of traffic accidents worldwide. Nearly 6000 people have been severely injured – some of them were disabled for the rest of their lives (David Roger, 1993). Novelty thus has helped in convincing policy analysts that traffic safety is a problem worth defining in order to find a long lasting, if not permanent solution. Proximity The problem of traffic safety is a proble m of every individual. 72% of the GUtech students and staff have relatives or friends who died because of road accidents. The post trauma suffered by the family is usually overlooked when accidents occur. The need for more professional advisers has been made necessary due to the need to help family members heal from the pain brought about due to loss of their loved ones. The proximity of this problem to everybody has made it indispensable thus worth defining. Crisis Traffic safety requires corrective action, according to the Royal Oman Police (ROP), 42% of the dead and injured were children under the age of 25 years (Salim and Salimah, 2005).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Royal Oman Police’ Traffic Safety specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The statistics are grim: during an eight-year period, more than 6,500 people were killed and more than 75,000 injured in auto accidents on Oman’s roads. With a p opulation just under three million, this sultanate on the Arabian Peninsula has one of the worst reported road crash fatality rates in the world, according to Al Mustadaama (‘Sustainability’), an independent Omani social research enterprise. Causes of the Traffic Safety Problem in Oman The major cause of traffic safety problem in Oman is an individual behavior of drivers. Human error and carelessness of drivers cause the majority of accidents. A lecturer in GUtech was surprised by the interest of students of the school as they visited the Traffic Safety Institute to find out more about the causes of accidents and the reason why they are escalating. The main causes of car crashes on Omani roads are careless driving, over-speeding, bad driving, the use of mobile phones during driving and the lack of seatbelts (Salim and Salimah, 2005). The weather is also to be blamed. Unfavorable weather, such as sandstorms, causes poor visibility, thus accidents. Some roads are in poor conditions due to the failure by institutions mandated to maintain them carrying out their responsibilities e.g. potholes, these roads can cause tire bursts. Some roads are also either narrow, slid, and or have sharp bends. The internal roads in the Wilayat of Al Seeb, which were damaged during last year’s weather conditions, remain in dreadful condition. Several cracks and potholes can be seen on these roads posing a serious threat to drivers. Some of the roads in this area connecting coastal areas are totally cut and some of the roads in residential areas are yet to be repaired. Residents in these areas have urged the Muscat Municipality officials several times to take urgent steps to repair the faulty roads. Residents say that motorists face several problems during rush hours. People living near the Al Seeb police station also complained about the terrible road conditions. Social and problematic conditions, e.g. drunk driving have also acted as a multiplier to the traffic safety problem, according to (Salim Salimah, 2005), it has been argued that the main cause of accidents is not the roads condition, but the careless mistakes by the humans. This is cause by their negligence and lack of prudence. Driving under the influence of alcohol can be likened to an avalanche – it is the most dangerous.Advertising Looking for essay on public administration? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Characteristics of the Problem Population Since the main cause of road accidents is human error, the target population here is mainly the drivers. Everybody is also part of the problem since the pedestrians or passengers may not obey traffic signs or do not wear seat belts. The affected population is, surprisingly, children. This is according to Salim and Salimah (2005), 96% of all children killed (180,500 in 2002) because of road traffic injuries. Even if the children are not directly involved, it is their breadwinners and guardians that are. These two populations are different in such a way that the affected population is the one, which actually depends on the target population to provide a solution. Possible Policy Solutions Problem definition cannot be done based on one fact. It is ambiguous and is based on social indicators. Policy making depends on the problem definition, for example, observers may define the problem of road safety as one of severity in nature caused by poor i nfrastructure and affecting motorists, while participants who have been affected define it as one of crisis in nature caused by institutional failure, and/or a health hazard and national disaster to children. The first definition, which is strategic, if accepted by policy makers will lead to the repair of roads, road signs, road building and increasing of vehicle standards of safety. The building of driver training institutions, will directly lead to the economical advantaging of certain companies. Technical studies for a bulk of the massive project are still being carried out, but Omani officials say they are close to announcing the winners of a bid to begin the first 45km of the project. If policy makers embrace the second definition, it will probably trigger public education, institutional overhauls and free treatment of accidental victims, especially children. Summary and conclusion In conclusion, problem definition is so far the most indispensable tool to policy analysts and ma kers in creating solutions. The definitions given will exclusively dictate the pathway to the solution and therefore this should be made impartially not to fit economical and political motives. However, it would help the affected population and educate the target population. The commitment to make the roads safe is a sign of humanness. It shows that people have respect for others. Road safety is something that people should ensure for the others (salim salimah, 2005). References David, A. R., Roger, W. C. (1993). Problem Definition, Agenda Access, and Policy Choice. Policy Study Journal, 21(1), 56-71. Salim, A., Salimah, J. (2005). Road traffic crashes. Oman: Al Mustadaama, LLC.

Central Teachings Essay Example for Free (#2)

Central Teachings Essay The central teachings of Islam are oneness of God and of humanity; prophethood and the compass of Islam; human relationship to the divine; belief in the unseen life; and belief in the Last Judgment (Fisher, 2005). Oneness of God and of humanity Islam teaches that there is only one God. This is why the first words spoken to a Muslim infant are the words of the Shahadah – â€Å"la ilaha ill-Allah Muhammad-un Rasulu-llah† (â€Å"There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God†). According to Muslims, God may be called by many names, but all the attributes assigned to those different names only make up the totality of the One God who created the universe. They contend that there must be absolute unity among all men of all races because they were all created by only one God and should therefore be brothers under the same God. Stretching this argument further, Islam maintains that no one race should be considered the chosen race, nor be considered superior than other races. Islam teaches that the individual should be one with God, therefore his or her thoughts and deeds should always be inspired by God. This oneness of God and of humanity was very emphatically expressed by Abu Hashim Madami, an Indian Sufi sage, when he said that â€Å"There is only one thing to be gained in life, and that is to remember God with each breath; and there is only one loss in life, and that is the breath drawn without the remembrance of God† (Fisher. 2005). Prophethood and the compass of Islam All the prophets from Abraham to Jesus Christ are honored, but they maintain that Muhammad was the last prophet sent by God with the final message. This means, therefore, that the Qur’an sums up all the messages from God so Islam should include all religions, including Christianity and Judaism which also trace their roots to Abraham (Fisher, 2005). Muslims believe that although God sent many messengers namely: â€Å"Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus and Muhammad,† the message He revealed to Muhammad was the final message intended for all of mankind (Robinson, 2007). Human relationship to the divine They believe that God created the universe for a specific purpose or purposes. To achieve His purpose/s, He set down particular laws to govern the actions of everybody. For this reason, Islam maintains that man could live in peace and prosperity only if he recognizes the laws which were set by God and faithfully abide by them. The set of laws of Islam is called the Sharia Law which has been derived from the Qur’an and the Sunna, which has been considered as the Islamic â€Å"custom or practice; particularly that associated with the exemplary life of the Prophet Muhammad, comprising his deeds and utterances as recorded in the hadith† (Robinson, 2007). Belief in the unseen life They accept the existence of the unseen life such as angels. Specifically, they believe in Gabriel, whom they have credited with bringing down the messages of God to humanity. Muhammad, for one, related that the revelations were sometimes brought to him by an angel in human form who would recite the Qur’anic passages to him. They likewise believe that Satan exists just as they believe that there are saints. Belief in the Last Judgment For them, the Last Judgment means that dead Muslims are allowed some rest before being raised from the grave for the final reckoning, after which the sinners and the unbelievers are sent to hell (Fisher. 2005). Those who lived their lives on earth believing in Allah and his prophets and messengers would enter paradise while â€Å"Agnostics, Atheists, Polytheists, and followers of non-Abrahamic religions† would be rejected. Entry into Paradise, according to Muslims, would likewise be denied to all those whose lives were dominated by â€Å"evil deeds† (Robinson, 2007). Central Teachings. (2017, May 29).

Organisational Behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Organisational Behaviour - Essay Example An informal group is defined as an association of individuals pooled toward the objective of sharing knowledge and views. Secondly, organisational culture in a broad sense refers to the ‘character’ of an organisation. Informal Groups Generally, an informal group belongs to a work group in an organisation and it may not possess a formal structure. Despite its unorganised feature, the group members will have common interests and attitudes. To define, an informal group is not just a collection of people but indicates an internal social structure that gives emphasis on friendship relations rather than official relations (Employee motivation). Obviously organisations contain lot of informal groups. Even big issues can be easily tackled by people working together informally if they are very responsive to events. While dealing with urgent local issues, informal groups can be the best ones since they can easily recognise the actual cause of the issue. According to Bassy (2002, p.27), the idea of informal group came to light at the Hawthorne plant of the Western Electric Company in Chicago. This study was conducted by Elton Mayo, Roethlisberger, and Dickson. Functions of an informal group An informal group carries out functions both for individual workers and their employing organisation. The informal group conducts group discussions in order to come with the group’s vision, mission, and set of goal (Informal groups). After setting certain set of goals, they are broken down into short term and long term goals as this strategy assists the group to evaluate ideas and thereby add value to group performance. As Chaneta (2006) points out, the informal groups mainly functions to deal with employee issues. The most important function of an informal group is to meet the worksite security needs of its members. Every employee has the right to get satisfactory and safety worksite environment. There are certain situations when an employee is forced to work under dangerous worksite conditions. For instance, sometimes employees are compelled to work without safety equipments in a factory where there is a chance of chemical exposure. Under such circumstances, the employees ar e at higher risk of adverse worksite conditions. However, this type of issue can be effectively resolved if organisation contain active informal groups. Here, the group members discuss their problems and inform their suggestions to top management; the group power drives the management to respond to the issue immediately. Similarly, solving conflicts among the employees is another major function of informal groups. Nowadays, due to tough market competition, organisations tend to make the worksite atmosphere more strict and productive. This management policy may impose additional stress on workers and naturally it would lead to workplace conflicts. However, informal groups can more effectively deal with worksite conflicts than the management. Likewise, the informal groups serve organisational interests also. Every organisation aims at making its workers maximum productive and thereby increases the profitability. The informal groups functions to encourage its members to be innovative. Although the group’s fundamental objective is the betterment of employees, ultimately it contributes to organisational efficiency. For instance, employees’ innovative ideas may assist the organisation to reduce its cost of production or to more efficiently deal with day to day operations. Although informal groups also try

Learning About Power And Leadership In Organizations Essay

Learning About Power And Leadership In Organizations - Essay Example Power is a strong word. It connotes to something extraordinary just like having another person do something which you would not have done yourself. Power may have different meanings depending on how it is used in context. It could have good or bad connotations. For example, some people are caught saying â€Å"If you’ve got information, then you are sure to get to the top or lead because you got the power of leveraging yourself over the situation or over your competitors. This is better termed as the â€Å"Informational power† (French and Raven). On the other hand, S. Mallaby wrote about Power on a different perspective as he pointed out that â€Å"Power that is built on debt is often Power that will crumble† (Mallaby). How does â€Å"Power† apply to my position and work? Presently, I belong to the middle managerial level, given the designation of a Section Chief for Internal Affairs Group under the Planning and Programming Unit. I report directly to the A ssistant Director for Internal Affairs Group who reports to the Bureau Director. I work in a typical government office which is adapts the bureaucratic hierarchical structure. Our Bureau is in charge of the purchase and distribution of health supplies needed in our town as well as the deployment of health workers. The Bureau’s upper and middle hierarchical structure include a Bureau Director, acting as the overall Head of the Bureau with two Assistant Directors, one for Internal Affairs Group.... This is better termed as the â€Å"Informational power† (French and Raven). On the other hand, S. Mallaby wrote about Power on a different perspective as he pointed out that â€Å"Power that is built on debt is often Power that will crumble† (Mallaby). How does â€Å"Power† apply to my position and work? Presently, I belong to the middle managerial level, given the designation of a Section Chief for Internal Affairs Group under the Planning and Programming Unit. I report directly to the Assistant Director for Internal Affairs Group who reports to the Bureau Director. I work in a typical government office which is adapts the bureaucratic hierarchical structure. Our Bureau is in charge of the purchase and distribution of health supplies needed in our town as well as the deployment of health workers. The Bureau’s upper and middle hierarchical structure include a Bureau Director, acting as the overall Head of the Bureau with two Assistant Directors, one for In ternal Affairs Group who is tasked to handle planning and programming, finance and administrative concerns. (Refer to Attachment 1 -Organizational Structure.) The other Assistant Director handles the Bureau’s External Affairs to include Operations, Public Information and Other External Affairs Programs and Activities. These two top Assistant Directors directly report to the Bureau Director bringing to him issues specific to their group. Each Assistant Director has designated Section Chief and Assistant Section Chief. â€Å"Power in this bureaucratic office is the typical set up described by Max Weber’s in his paradigm stating that the level of power given to a bureaucrat is directly proportional to the level where you are positioned in the hierarchy†

The Significance and Role of the Theme of Hospitality Essay Example for Free

The Significance and Role of the Theme of Hospitality Essay In Ancient Greece, when the world was still young and vastly unexplored, people relied on good faith in welcoming strangers in their lands hoping that the favor shall also be repaid in kind in the future when they too shall travel. There were poor means of communication between tribes, cities or small communities separated by a wide expanse of empty land and the open sea. Anyone who decides to set out on an epic voyage to uncharted territories can only trust the unspoken tradition of hospitality among people scattered in unknown places. One can not depend solely on personal renown to be allowed access in strange lands. Similarly, while the fame and reputation of Odysseus did precede him throughout the lands, it was not so much because of his prominence that helped him through his voyage. Rather it was due to the practice of unconditional altruism which played an important role in Odysseus’s travels. It is the principle of doing to others what one wishes that others do in return. It is the unspoken bond of humanity among individuals who were then too few in the world and had each other to ask for assistance as brothers and comrades in the nascent world The theme of travel and wandering prevails in the Homer’s Epic, the Odyssey. After the fall of Troy, Odysseus with his small army set out to sail for home. However, he was destined to suffer years of torment and agony because Poseidon, among a number of other gods, wanted to prevent him from ever succeeding while the rest of the gods in Mount Olympus pitied him and wanted him to succeed. Just like the harsh and uninviting ocean storms, Odysseus’ fate was tossed and turned by the whims of these gods. He was subjected to numerous trials and tests during his protracted journey home until he finally reached Ithaca and proved to be seaworthy, so to speak, in all respects (Aylen, 1964). Yet travel only underscores the salient theme of hospitality during the ancient era. Travel was prevalent during that time of exploration and the growth of Western civilization. People traveled for commerce and trade including the exchange of goods and ideas. Trade routes were established specifically to satisfy a society’s needs to go beyond their borders and establish different friendly relations with other states (Aylen, 1964). Trade routes were also developed to make sure that voyage to and fro is very convenient, safe and fast. Along trade routes and other important nautical highways were small tribes peppered along the shorelines. One or two may be hostile and unaccommodating to seafarers but even if most of them are highly suspicious of strangers, they still treated them with kindness even extravagance (1964). To everybody’s minds, it is most likely that people will continue to pass by routes and highways of exchange and its better to treat them well as opposed to driving them away and creating feud than friendship. A visitor today may be one’s host in the future. Likewise, a stranger that passes now might become a good friend eventually. Hospitality, the ready and willing cordial welcome of guests from strange lands, made voyage in the ancient world possible and better. The desire for adventure, to travel and to discover new places will have been a nightmare if people did not practice amicable attitudes to strangers. The benefits of being hospitable to seafarers outweigh the risks of treating strangers like friends into one’s home. Put differently, the risk in turning away visitors is more costly resource-wise than providing feasts and unlimited assistance to whoever is need of help (Aylen, 1964). It is true that the host, in order to show goodwill, have to go the distance of putting up expensive festive celebrations or sacrifice the best of what little resource he may have in his storehouse, but these things are necessary costs before reaping the benefits of being kind to a stranger who might later turn out to be a king or some rich merchant. Hospitality, in other words, is an investment in the future (1964). Ties of blood and friendship are created or destroyed by the practice of this tradition. Odysseus’ adventures and other incidental stories in Homer’s Odyssey evince the importance of hospitality in the sparsely populated ancient world. The different ways in which he and his men were welcomed in strange lands spelled either good tidings or disaster for them as the guests of honor and for the hosts. The mythical undertones that gird the motives of the hosts to give assistance in an ostentatious fashion merely attribute the sense of the divine in an otherwise natural and practical way to create stronger and long-lasting friendships. Book III of the epic, where Athena goaded Nestor to assist Telemachus in his business, was an adornment. It supports the traditional claim that hospitality was completely sanctioned by the gods. Anyone who fails or transgresses this tradition had to answer to the gods. In the same vein, Nestor provided food, shelter and a decent means of transportation for Telemachus, who was out in an important errand, upon the advice of the mentor god (Kitto, 1990). The fact that Nestor gave without question is instructive on the point that any material gifts to the hosts are just as good as altar sacrifices to the gods. In other words, Nestor showed his best form of hospitality in consideration of accumulating favors from the gods, if not militate the possibility of incurring the wrath of the gods. Being hospitable had a two-pronged effect, one that redounds positively to the host as a friend to the guest and the host as a favored individual in the eyes of the gods (Kitto, 1990). Subsequently in Book IV, Homer reveals subtly another good reason why hospitality was an important element in the epic. At first, upon the arrival of Telemachus and Nestor’s son, a messenger reported to Menelaus that â€Å"there are two strangers here, two men who look as if they are descended from great Zeus† and asked politely, â€Å"so tell me if we should, on their behalf, take their fast horses out of harness, or send them off to find some other host wholl welcome them as friends† (Book IV, Lines 31-40). The herald was both being courteous and cautious at the same time. He apprises to Menelaus that visitors, who looked like Greeks, were at their doorsteps and awaited the king’s instructions whether or not to accept them as guests or send them off to another place where they shall also be welcomed. The fact that the herald seemed a bit hesitant to allow the visitors in does not lessen the sense of hospitality in the epic. If anything, the question was addressed to the king taking into account the fact that they were presently engaged in other festivities. At any rate, Menelaus, hurriedly dispatched the notion and with playful chiding, told the messenger to tarry no longer in calling Telemachus and his companion and letting them in, saying: â€Å"Before today, Eteoneus, son of Boethous, you havent been a fool. But now you talk just like a silly child. For both of us often feasted on the hospitality of other men before we got back here, hoping that Zeus would give us some relief from later suffering (emphasis supplied). So unhitch those horses the strangers brought, and bring the men inside, so they may dine† (Book IV Lines 42-50). The lines in italics bespeak Menelaus anxious anticipation to finally have the opportunity to repay the favors he had been getting ever since he left for Troy. Indeed, he has enjoyed the hospitality of strangers in different lands and now is the best time to return the favor to another stranger. It is in the hope of perpetuating the cycle of hospitality as a tradition which turns full circle in his acceptance of two strangers and shall be repeated in the future when Menelaus himself shall travel again. Also, it bears stressing that Menelaus had no idea who these strangers were before welcoming them in with such gusto. It was only when the strangers had entered and set properly before the tables of festivity before Menelaus started to asked who they were and what brings them to his place right after they shall have dine with him. To wit: â€Å"enjoy our food and once youve had your meal, well ask you who you are. For in you two your parents breeding has not been destroyed—since you are from a royal human stock, from god-nurtured kings who wield a scepter [†¦] Worthless men could not father men like you† (Book IV, lines 61-67). More importantly, when Menelaus invoked Zeus in kind and in favor to justify the need to welcome the strangers in, the epic reveals yet another layer in the theme of hospitality (Kitto, 1990). Zeus was actually in fact the god of travelers and of hospitality (1990). He favors those who treat visitors well and guests who behave themselves properly while being accommodated (1990). This reciprocity of kindness and courteousness is embodied in the traditional concept of the Xenia, where both the host and the guest follow certain predetermined divine rules in terms of hospitality. The host must provide necessary assistance to his guests and treat him as a part of the household, whilst the guest must not desecrate the honor granted to him. The host must not ask impertinent questions or if he must, out of polite curiosity, it can only be done after the guest has fully settled himself in and satisfied his needs. When the time comes for the guest to depart, the host shall, or regularly will, give a parting gift to bid the guest farewell and god-speed in his journey. Xenia is a Greek ancient custom of treating strangers as friends in the household. The practice of which has been so pervasive that it has partaken the nature of a ritual that still bears persuasive force even among modern societies in the Western world (1990). Otherwise, a person who does not observe the rite of the xenia or practically of hospitality, the consequences are dire either with respect to the gods’ fury or men’s retribution (1990). On another note, a perusal of Menelaus’ and his subjects’ attitude towards their guests, who had an air of royalty and superiority, will uncover another dimension of the concept of hospitality. Curiously enough, both the messenger and Menelaus noticed a semblance between them and the two strangers. They both automatically assumed that Telemachus and his companion were of divine and royal origin. As such, they were moved to treat them to which their station in life properly deserves. A whole feast befitting a king was given in honor of Telemachus. In addition, arguing that Telemachus was not a king, his Greek appearance perhaps inspired a sense of kinship with Menelaus being both Greeks. Indeed, if men had a tendency to behave altruistically towards individuals who physically resembled them, they might indirectly be doing their own kind a huge favor by being hospitable to Greek strangers. Menelaus, like other Greeks, had a kin-like tendency to identify with strangers who closely resemble oneself physically. This kind of natural response would lead to the providential growth of one’s race. At a time when Greeks moved around little or heavily throughout the region, chances are high that any random individual that pays a visit may be close kin to the host, not just in terms of ties of friendship but even through blood-lines. Thus, being nice to any stranger who look similar or appears to share the same qualities as one may possess, could have a positive survival value in the long run. In this sense, Homer seems to imply that being hospitable to strangers is more than just showing good manners and courtesy. In a time when the Greeks were holding off invaders from their lands it is but wise to know your allies and treat them well, for in the off chance that the nation-states have to unite in battle against foreign belligerent armies, the person you welcome today might be the very person fighting with and for you in war. Menelaus, being a warmonger himself, knows this too well and at the sight of a fellow Greek in need of help, he had no qualms in giving him what he, as a member of a race, rightly deserves. Homer continues to wax different dimensions of hospitality in Books V-VIII which stresses the importance of Xenia and the concept of hospitality in the survival of Odysseus in his journey. At around this time, Odysseus has recently departed the place of Calypso. He set out to sail in a raft but was constantly being harassed by Poseidon who determined to kill him. Odysseus had been washed over to alien shores but was lucky enough to find people willing to give him some assistance. However, Homer casts a shadow of doubt as to the genuine motives of the people who came to the aid of Odysseus. Upon Odysseus’ unplanned arrival at the land of the Phaeacians, he was met with several people who were wondering who he was. There is an air of foreboding and caution since in all appearances and circumstances Odysseus was a total stranger. Athena while disguised as stranger admonished Odysseus that: â€Å"The people here are not fond of strangers—they dont extend a friendly welcome to those from other lands, but put their trust in their swift ships to carry them across vast gulfs of the sea† (Book VII, lines 40-45). Nonetheless, after Odysseus, who was then covered in mist which later dispersed, prostrated himself before the attendants inside the palace, he was welcomed to dine and sleep in the palace if only because they were wary of strangers but had a heart for those who pay homage properly viz. by being pious suppliants. The attendants of the palace were not as welcoming as the Greeks. Yet they gave him something to drink, clothe himself and sleep on until Alcinous the king would pass wise judgment on the best way to treat Odysseus. Thereafter, king Alcinous bid the Phaeacians to extend a little warmth of kindness to Odysseus before he sets out for his home again with a sacrifice to be made to Zeus. The king made it clear that in no way was Odysseus to be ill-treated or harm precisely because for such a long time the gods have yet to show their true form and the stranger before them might be one of the gods. Odysseus was quick to reply that he was an ordinary man stranded and lost at sea. The wise and timely words of Odysseus gained the approval of everyone in the majestic palace. King Alocinous even offered his daughter in marriage so then their line would continue to produce wise men like him. At this point, Odysseus, with his cunning and resourcefulness, had finally earned not only the respect of the Phaeacians but his keep during his stay at the palace (Book VII, Lines 380-400). Later in Book VIII, the brand of hospitality shown by the Phaeacians is beginning to look more obvious. Athena knows well that the Phaeacians were not good with strangers and as such, in order to compel respect and awe among them, Athena â€Å"poured an amazing poise on him [Odysseus], across his shoulders and his head and made him look taller and more powerful, so the Phaeacians would welcome him, and he would win from them respect and awe (Book VIII, Lines 18-24). Indeed, as it were, people are moved to show generosity and courtesy in varying levels of motivation. It could be purely out of the kindness of one’s heart, the desire to be repaid in turn in the future, to help a kinsman, or it could well probably be shown out of respect, fear and awe. As in the case of Odysseus’ stay with the Phaeacians, he had nothing else but his wisdom and the guidance of Athena to merit the approving welcome of his hosts. Although the Phaeacians were not famous for being so accommodating to strangers, they still observed the rituals of hospitality and Xenia by offering their guest a means to get back home—fifty handpicked men of the finest caliber and a ship to sail with as well. On the part of the Odysseus as the guest of honor, when provoked into an experiment of skill and strength, did show some remarkable feats but spurned suggestions of having to wrestle with his host lest his fortunes may turn (Book VIII, 40). Thus far, Homer has shown how people of the ancient world have embraced and perceived hospitality as a part of their customs and way of life. Hospitality was presented as a tool to earn favors and forge relationships among men, and as an unconditional gift to which the reward is the sense of satisfaction from being able to lend a hand to those in need. However, hospitality may lend itself to abuse what with the fact that people seem to be kind and generous all the time. Such abuse of hospitality is not without a fitting punishment at the instance that a guest desecrates the honor of the host. Book IX of the epic, narrates Odysseus’ experience with the Cyclops. He recounts that when he left to check their ship his men wantonly killed a number of sheep in the midst and casually ate what they could grab their hands on. Odysseus had a share in the loot as well and even went inside the cave which was the house of the terrible Cyclops. But when the master of the house arrived, in trembling and fear-inspiring fashion, none of the supplications of Odysseus neither his wise and calculated words had an effect to the Cyclops (Book IX, Lines 331-339). The Cyclops was angry because uninvited strangers ate some of his prized sheep and even slept on his abode. The Cyclops bellows that he was not afraid of Zeus. Thus, he had no business whatsoever neither had he any divine obligation to show kindness to the trespassers. He can do whatever he wanted with the strangers who were presently trapped inside the cave (Book IX, Lines 300-310). In the same breath, Homer attributed the inhospitality with the fact that Odysseus and his men failed to pay the proper respects to their host. They went on pillaging resources without asking for permission. The Cyclops would have been more lenient had they observed the rites as visitors. At any rate, the Cyclops is a being beyond the control of established rules and laws of men. This was a creature who did not answer to the gods. It was an independent and free-thinking uncivilized brute that could do as he please without fear of incurring the wrath of the gods. Furthermore, the Cyclops did not fit the ideal host precisely because he had nothing to gain from feeding, clothing and accepting into his home strangers who come his way. At the least, strangers who pass by are nothing but piecemeal desserts to him. The Cyclops was only interested in entertainment and food, and cared little about the problems of stranded seafarers. Then again, as a host who had performed poorly in attending to his visitors, the Cyclops suffered his just punishment. Odysseus and his men crafted a scheme to escape and in the process gorged the only eye of the Cyclops, depriving him totally of the sense of sight. What worse punishment can there be to a Cyclops than to take from him his one eye for being inhospitable? The lack of hospitality in Book IX of the epic and in other parts signifies the untamed and wild aspects of the ancient world. It is true that there are many who are willing and able to render aid to strangers with such generosity and kindness. Yet it is equally true that there are some who are not so keen in helping out people in need. The ancient world has a collection of creatures and beings of this sort. Driven by selfishness and self-serving interest, they see little benefits in spending resources, time and energy to outsiders. Not even the divine and universal laws of gods and men’s customs and traditions have the power to compel them to do the right thing. Such creatures are uncivilized and nothing can be expected from them but hostility and danger. Wise words can not trick them to do something against their brutish nature. As independent creatures, they rely on themselves for support and livelihood. Anyone who intrudes into their domain is readily met with a poor or lack of kind treatment.

The Digital Conversion in Television Essay -- TV Digital Technology DT

The Digital Conversion in Television Introduction Television is now in the process of converting from analog to digital technology. The significance of this change is greater than the introduction of color TV in the 1960’s, but more complicated since conversion will require new equipment for all consumers. Unlike color TV, digital television (DTV) uses a new kind of signal that does not fit within the structure of the old signal. "DTV" refers to a specific standard being implemented in the United States to carry a television signal in digital form through all stages of its transmission, not just for digital equipment such as video tape recorders and satellite receivers that have already been used in conjunction with analog television. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the regulatory authority for the use of DTV. The Commission required TV stations in the top ten markets to begin broadcasting digital signals on separate channels along with their current analog signals. Stations in smaller markets are being phased in, and all commercial stations are expected to broadcast a digital signal by 2002. By 2003, all public stations are expected to go digital. The FCC will allow broadcasters to pull the plug on analog by 2006, although many people in the electronics and communications industries feel that analog TV may persist for a few years longer (Churchill). Digital television is being promoted for three distinct advantages: better picture, better sound, and more functions and flexibility. A digital picture has better color and is free from ghost images and snow. In addition, the DTV format allows for greater resolution than analog TV, a resolution high enough to be known as high definition television (HDTV). Th... ...re/0,1284,14770,00.html>. Mannion, Patrick. "FCC Roadblocks COFDM Petition." Electronic Design 20 Mar. 2000: 32. Academic Search Elite GALILEO. Athens Area Technical Inst. Lib., Athens, GA. 7 May 2000 . Mannion, Patrick. "Last Digital-TV Issues Get Resolved as Industry Gears Up for Prime Time." Electronic Design 17 Apr. 2000: 85-91. Academic Search Elite GALILEO. Athens Area Technical Inst. Lib., Athens, GA. 7 May 2000 . Powell III, Adam Clayton. "Digital Doubts." Reason Apr. 2000: 13-14. Academic Search Elite GALILEO. Athens Area Technical Inst. Lib., Athens, GA. 4 May 2000 . Yang, Catherine, Neil Gross and Richard Siklos. "Digital D-Day." BusinessWeek 26 Oct. 1998. McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. 6 May 2000 .

Lifes Ups and Downs Essay

One warm weekend in June, my girlfriend decided she wanted to take me on a weekend getaway to none other than Las Vegas, Nevada, a place where no one else existed but me and her. So I thought. I was totally ecstatic; at this point it’s been moths since we’ve been out just the two of us with no kids. The first night we get there we get dressed up and make reservations at our favorite restaurant. The moment we get to the restaurant, she starts acting weird and all of a sudden does not find a single thing on the menu appetizing and complains of a stomach ache, so we leave in a hurry. Arriving back to our suite, there is a card taped to the door with her name on it. So many thoughts are racing through my mind, â€Å"She is planning something special for us, she has a surprise for me, maybe she ordered room service while we were out and it was inside waiting for us.† As quickly as the thought came they left, we entered the room only for her to admit she was just too tired and needed to rest. So I let her, I laid next to her wondering what was going on, what was going on in her mind. It was almost like we were living in two different worlds. As she slept curiosity suddenly came over me, very quietly I got out of bed grabbing her bag which contained the note that was tapped to the door, into the bathroom I went. My eyes could not believe what was written so boldly across the paper â€Å"I HOPE SHE WAS WORTH IT.† I could not resist questioning the matter at hand, I woke her up and she blatantly denied there being any meaning to this card. We argued hard and like ever before, almost like she had forgotten who I was, like I didn’t matter to her. The rest of the night went on and we were both hurt. I used indirect termination strategies to spare my heart anymore hurt. I couldn’t come to terms that this was finally coming to an end. Four years later, I found out I was never her one and only I was simply her girlfriend number two. Being very cautious to every relationship offer that came my way, I turned down so many. I did not care to see another relationship. I was never one to â€Å"get-over† a bad situation, but I knew I had to move on; I couldn’t come to terms with my last break up. Just as soon as I let down my guard, there she was someone who made me feel alive again. She helped me heal every wound in my heart and soul. Until, I started to see some similarities from my past relationship. She was so secretive, there began to be relational violence. I had to wear sunglasses everywhere I went even if I was inside because of the bruises I would have from the nights before when I didn’t do what I was asked in a timely manner. When the questions came from my friends and co-workers I had to lie. My life has never had so much deception I soon began believing in my own lies. I questioned her I didn’t understand why I had become her human punching bag. She was so cold and nonchalant towards me. As the days went by the dresser drawers slowly became empty the closet became empty and there seemed to be less and less of her things at my place. I wanted to know what was happening, was my life slowly slipping away again? So I picked up the phone and attempted to call her, I got no answer. Days went by without me hearing from her. Then I realized our relationship had ended in sudden death. There was no contact between us. The outside world became non-existent to me. I could not cope with the thought of another relationship ending so sudden. My life hasn’t been the same, how do you wake up one day to a world that isn’t your own? Relearning life one day at a time has been tough but I am a fighter this too will make me stronger!

APush History Term Paper Essay

Robert La Follette, the son of a small farmer, was born in Dane County, Wisconsin, on 14th June, 1855. He worked as a farm labourer before entering the University of Wisconsin in 1875. In 1876 La Follette met Robert G. Ingersoll. He later recalled: â€Å"Ingersoll had a tremendous influence upon me, as indeed he had upon many young men at the time. It was not that he changed my beliefs, but he liberated my mind. Freedom was what preached: he wanted the shackles off everywhere. He wanted men to think boldly about all things: he demanded intellectual and moral courage.† After graduating in 1879 he set up as a lawyer and the following year became District Attorney of Dane County. Elected to Congress as a Republican, La Follette was extremely critical of the behaviour of some of the party bosses. In 1891, La Follette announced that the state Republican boss, Senator Philetus Sawyer, had offered him a bribe to fix a court case. Over the next six years La Follette built up a loyal following within the Republican Party in opposition to the power of the official leadership. Proposing a programme of tax reform, corporation regulation and an extension of political democracy, La Follette was elected governor of Wisconsin in 1900. Once in power La Follette employed the academic staff of the University of Wisconsin to draft bills and administer the laws that he introduced. He later recalled: â€Å"I made it a policy, in order to bring all the reserves of knowledge and inspiration of the university more to the service of the people, to appoint experts from the university wherever possible upon the important boards of the state – the civil service commission, the railroad commission and so on – a relationship which the university has always encouraged and by which the state has greatly profited.† La Follette was also successful in persuading the federal government to introduce much needed reforms . This included the regulation of the railway industry and equalized tax assessment. In 1906 La Follette was elected to the Senate and over the next few years argued that his main role was to â€Å"protect the people† from the â€Å"selfish interests†. He claimed that the nation’s economy was dominated by fewer than 100 industrialists. He went on to argue that these men then used this power to control the political process. La Follette supported the growth of trade unions as he saw them as a check on the power of large corporations. In 1909 La Follette and his wife, the feminist, Belle La Follette founded the La Follette’s Weekly Magazine. The journal campaigned for women’s suffrage, racial equality and other progressive causes. Lincoln Steffens argued: â€Å"La Follette is the opposite of a demagogue. Capable of fierce invective, his oratory is impersonal; passionate and emotional himself, his speeches are temperate. Some of them are so loaded with facts and such closely knit arguments that they demand careful reading, and their effect is traced to his delivery, which is forceful, emphatic, and fascinating.† Art Young, The Masses (1917) La Follette supported Woodrow Wilson in the 1912 presidential election and approved his social justice legislation. However, he complained that he was under the control of big business and was totally opposed to Wilson’s decision to enter the First World War. Once war was declared La Follette opposed conscription and the passing of the Espionage Act. La Follette was accused of treason but was a popular hero with the anti-war movement. Lincoln Steffens was a great supporter of La Follette: â€Å"Governor La Follette was a powerful man, who, short but solid, swift and willful in motion, in speech, in decision, gave the impression of a tall, a big man†¦ what I saw at my first sight of him was a sincere, ardent man who, whether standing, sitting, or in motion, but the grace of trained strength, both physical and mental†¦ Rather short in stature, but broad and strong, he had the gift of muscled, nervous power, he kept himself in training all his life. His sincerity, his integrity, his complete devotion to his ideal, were indubitable; no one who heard could suspect his singleness of purpose or his courage.† La Follette became the candidate of the Progressive Party in the 1924 presidential election. Although he gained support from trade unions, individuals like Fiorello La Guardia and Vito Marcantonio, the Socialist Party and the Scripps-Howard newspaper chain, La Follette and his running partner, Burton K. Wheeler, only won one-sixth of the votes. Robert La Follette died on 18th June, 1925.

Free Essays on Women Studies

Women, men, children and communities are all separately affected by the demoralizing aspect of date rape that is continuously occurring in the society that surrounds everyone. Why is it that so many individuals are aware of date rape, yet no one seems to take into consideration the importance of the issues in society? It seems to be such an unpleasant issue that it is too difficult for many to discuss. Silence is becoming too expected to the victims of date rape. The â€Å"culture of silence† keeps in the humiliation, the fear of rejection and shame that victims could be feeling everyday of their lives. Individuals want to feel normal and fit into society, so dealing with the myths and deception within society is more acceptable for them. Sometimes silence seems to be the more acceptable way in society. Date rape is interpreted differently from everyone this is where the myths and silence seems to be more acceptable. Regardless of the laws that protect each individual, it is highly known that there are more victims who are silent than who decide to come forward. Even the term â€Å"date rape† pushes people away because it is an extremely sensitive subject. People are more aware of the myths that are throughout society than the actual aspects that surround rape. â€Å"Date rape† sounds as if it were to happen with the choice of each pattern in a dating situation. There really is no way to make the issue sound better because it is too a horrible aspect in life, but people need to take into consideration that it can happen to anyone. With all of the sensitive subjects, date rape seems to be one that is less heard of than others. â€Å"In reality, the woman who has been sexually assaulted frequently finds that both she and the accused are being judged. At the heart of this systemic bias is a long tradition of rape myths that have permeated not only the legal system, but that are perv asive in society† (Du Mont, Janice; Parnis, Deborah, 102-1... Free Essays on Women Studies Free Essays on Women Studies Women, men, children and communities are all separately affected by the demoralizing aspect of date rape that is continuously occurring in the society that surrounds everyone. Why is it that so many individuals are aware of date rape, yet no one seems to take into consideration the importance of the issues in society? It seems to be such an unpleasant issue that it is too difficult for many to discuss. Silence is becoming too expected to the victims of date rape. The â€Å"culture of silence† keeps in the humiliation, the fear of rejection and shame that victims could be feeling everyday of their lives. Individuals want to feel normal and fit into society, so dealing with the myths and deception within society is more acceptable for them. Sometimes silence seems to be the more acceptable way in society. Date rape is interpreted differently from everyone this is where the myths and silence seems to be more acceptable. Regardless of the laws that protect each individual, it is highly known that there are more victims who are silent than who decide to come forward. Even the term â€Å"date rape† pushes people away because it is an extremely sensitive subject. People are more aware of the myths that are throughout society than the actual aspects that surround rape. â€Å"Date rape† sounds as if it were to happen with the choice of each pattern in a dating situation. There really is no way to make the issue sound better because it is too a horrible aspect in life, but people need to take into consideration that it can happen to anyone. With all of the sensitive subjects, date rape seems to be one that is less heard of than others. â€Å"In reality, the woman who has been sexually assaulted frequently finds that both she and the accused are being judged. At the heart of this systemic bias is a long tradition of rape myths that have permeated not only the legal system, but that are perv asive in society† (Du Mont, Janice; Parnis, Deborah, 102-1...

Criminal Justice Workplace Observation Paper Research

Criminal Justice Workplace Observation - Research Paper Example According to Schwartz, the city of New Orleans had little about safety which has become integral part of the plan associated with the overhaul of New Orleans Police after being involved in a scandal. Then if this is the case, New Orleans Police Department in the first place might have significant problem with significant behavioral factors that could greatly influence an organization. Leadership is an essential factor in an organization as it consists of fundamental issues about leading people and the entire group especially in upper management, middle management and lower level management in the case of New Orleans Police Department. This agency might have become so passive at taking its leadership role for the safety of the people from the past, but due to the need to improve, the management realizes its great role to ratify changes concerning its significant implemented policies. As of the moment, the management realizes the need to come into agreement for further recruitment and training, performance evaluations and promotions, misconduct-complaint issues and even on matters concerning off-duty assignments in which corruptions would normally arise (Schwartz, 2012). This is a great concern which involves issue of leading the entire team and even application of control. Furthermore, the system of values and beliefs remarkably changes as well. As of the moment, the New Orleans Police Department realizes the importance and value of its strong relationship tie with the community as stated in its 122-page agreement known as a consent decree (Schwartz, 2012). It would not be so easy to adapt to this kind of culture right away, as the New Orleans Police Department was used to something which would normally take less for creating dynamic relationship with the society. The kind of culture therefore that has been evolving in the entire organization for a long period of time has become poor in initiating control. As a result, the existing agency has become less with it s becoming people and goal oriented organization, which eventually reflects on the management and people’s feedback regarding the city’s level of safety and the department’s existing relationship with the society. The New Orleans Police Department has a culture not so rigid about implementation of its role for the society and at some point it fails to initiate a high level of control for its performance for the society. This in the first place should have been remarkably emancipated first from the internal environment of the agency. However, due to its lack of direction for leading the entire team, the system of values and beliefs of the subordinates and for the entire organization within the agency has fell short in the society’s expectations. One indication of this has been the reported violations against the use of force, searches and seizures, arrest, interrogations, photographic lineups and more in which all them have been taken into account in the 1 22-page agreement called consent decree. The system of values and beliefs within the New Orleans Police Department has therefore momentarily trying to leapfrog to something better which the management has become so positive about. In addition, due to various changes and adapting of new policies, New Orleans Police Department at some point has become concern about the implementation of the law. The law in this case, which showcases about addressing the basic right of the people, has become the stepping stone why New Orleans Police

Class Blog (reflection paper) Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Class Blog (reflection paper) - Article Example In many ways I did not believe that the conditions were harsh and imagined that perhaps the family enjoyed a comfortable stay at a Western hotel during the evenings while only sharing the food and accommodation of the local villagers during working hours. These suppositions quickly evaporated when my best friend invited me (and I accepted) to participate one year as an assistant for the trip. Armed with my pre-conceived notions about how it would be I was in for one of the most monumental shocks of my entire life. Additionally, the experience worked to impress upon me one of the most valuable ethical lessons I have yet learned. So powerful was this experience and the ethical ramifications thereof that it has partially reshaped the way I live my own life. Supposing that I would be surrounded by a team of part time â€Å"do gooders† that were more interested in the exotic local than the needs of the villagers, I soon found myself enveloped by a world I could never have imagined nor believed had it been explained to me. What was really going on was that each and every one of the volunteers were taking time from their own highly paid jobs in the United States to volunteer their time, energy, and money (medical supplies were covered by those that were volunteering) to alleviate the suffering of those that did not have access to a hospital or medical clinic within 85 miles. It was during this time that my view of the world and how ethical behavior should look like began to form. I cannot say that I have seen the light and now the needs of fellow humans has turned me into the perfect example of a humanitarian; however, what it did do was shatter my expectations regarding what life was really like and why people performed such selfless and costly acts of service. From a spiritual perspective, I was able to relate to what the volunteers were doing. In fact, from a spiritual perspective, nearly all persons of faith can relate to