Monday, September 30, 2019
Goal Setting Theory
Research conducted in this field has indicated that there is a positive relationship between goal setting and performance outputs. The prime principles of the goal setting theory state that successful goal setting needs to be assessed on five dimensions: goal clarity, goal challenge, goal commitment, performance feedback, and task complexity. The insights Of the empirical studies discussed in this paper imply that when goal setting is done correctly and thoroughly throughout each stage, it leads to a significant increase in motivation.Various methods and strategies have been developed to complement the goal setting theory, an example being, the popular mnemonic acronym S. M. A. R. T. Which uses the words specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely to aid in eating effective goals. Goal setting theory is both measurable and quantifiable. Empirical evidence from both experimental and field settings have supported that the benefits (increase in employee performance, increase in employee motivation, increase in profits, etc. ) far outweigh the drawbacks (results from application error, organization costs, human resource efforts).Based off current research output and the abundance of research still conducted and revised on this theory, it can be concluded that the goal setting theory is an effective theory of motivation and, moving forward, will be a leader in workplace motivation in North America. INTRODUCTION According to Callus's employee study, workplace disengagement is an alarming issue around the world. In North America, the region with the highest ratio of engaged workers compared to the rest of the world, the proportion of engaged workers is only 29% (Gallup, 2011).In other words, the vast majority of workers are not reaching their full potential. This has significant implications to the economy, companies, and individuals. With the great deal of emphasis on productivity in today's marketplace, managers within organizations are constantly search ing for effective strategies in motivating staff to achieving organizational goals. The theory of motivation discussed in this paper will be the goal-setting theory, which is arguably one of the most dominant theories in the field of motivation with over a thousand articles and reviews published within the last 30 to 40 years (Lethal, 2006).The objective of this paper is to produce a summary and evaluation Of the goal setting theory of motivation. The paper will be divided into two sections. The first section will discuss the foundation of the theory along with its main tenets. The second section will provide real life examples of the theory application and critically examine the applicability of the theory in the North American managerial workplace supported by empirical work. FOUNDATION OF THEORY The foundation of the goal setting theory was first developed and refined by the American psychologist, Edwin Locke, in the 1 sass.Locke was inspired by the final cause in Arteriole's the ory of causality, which states ââ¬Å"that for the sake of whichâ⬠or can be defined as the end or purpose of something. Stemming from Aristotle theory, Locke continued to research on goal setting for thirty years. With the contribution of Locke and other scientists, this theory has now been popularized and become one of the most widely used horses regarding motivation. During Locker's primary research, he studied the relationship between goal setting variables and task performance.There were two major sets of initial studies conducted ââ¬â the difficulty of the goal (difficult versus easy), and the specificity of the goal (specific versus vague) goals. He concluded that difficult goals led to higher performance than easy goals, given that the difficulty was within an attainable limit. His second conclusion was that specific goals were more effective than vague ones (Locke, 1968). Following Locker's study, Gary Lathe's research established animal conclusions in his workplac e ââ¬â there was indeed a link between goal setting and workplace performance.Together, in 1990, they published their seminal work in a book called ââ¬Å"A Theory of Goal Setting and Task Performanceâ⬠(Locke & Lethal, 1990). Along with the two original characteristics of successful goal setting, three additional characteristics have been identified as crucial. The goal setting theory is now guided by five principles: goal clarity, goal challenge, goal commitment, performance feedback, and task complexity. The following paragraphs will briefly discuss each of the five principles and the supporting research.TENETS OF THE THEORY Research indicates that clear goals can reduce absenteeism, tardiness, and turnover, which all aid in increasing organizational productivity (Locke & Lethal, 2002). A clear goal is defined as being specific and measurable. As Locke mentions in his paper, when the goal is specific and measurable, it provides an external reference such as a time frame, which reduces overall ambiguity (Locke & Lethal, 2002). In six of the eight studies that Locke conducted, the level of performance was significantly higher in the group that was given a specific goal compared to the group that was given a vague goal.An example of a specific goal would be to ââ¬Å"complete X amount in Y timeâ⬠and a vague goal would be to ââ¬Å"do your bestâ⬠. Another primary issue researched on goal setting was the goal challenge or difficulty. In a meta-analysis of goal setting studies, easy goals were defined as those with greater than 50% probability of attainment and moderate goals being 16%-D% probability of attainment (Klein et al. , 1999). When participants were given these two types of goals, data indicated that, harder goals resulted in higher levels of performance (Klein et al. , 1999).Optimally, a goal should not be too difficult o a point where it is unattainable and motivation suffers (Bennett, 2009). However, overall on average, the perfor mance level in individuals with higher goals was still significantly higher than those with very easy goals (Klein et al. , 1999). This can be explained by the idea that high goals lead to high performance, which is associated with rewards, and rewards often result in high satisfaction. In other words, individuals are motivated by more difficult goals because of the anticipated accomplishment involved (Locke & Lethal, 2002).Goal commitment has been said to be a secondary characteristic cause it interacts with goal difficulty to produce performance. It has been found that commitment is crucial for difficult goals, but does not necessarily result in high performance when given an easy goal (Klein et al. , 1999). In a review of the literature, on average across all goal difficulty, it has been concluded that the higher the level of goal commitment, the higher the level of performance output (Klein et al. , 1999). Commitment to a goal can be increased when the goal is individually set o r when the individual agrees to the assigned goal.In environments with high group cohesion, goal ointment of individuals is also found to be high because of the strong influence of group norms (Locke & Lethal, 1991). Furthermore, self-efficacy is also a topic often discussed when relating to goal setting. Self-efficacy refers to an individual's judgment of their own ability to perform particular activities given their level of skill and ability (Bandeau, 1986). As this is a topic in and of itself, it is important to just note here that self-efficacy plays an important role in goal commitment.A higher level of self-efficacy in relation to goal attainment (I. E. If the individuals believes he can achieve the goal) exults in a higher level of goal commitment (Lethal & Locke 1991). Performance feedback is necessary for goal setting to be effective because it helps individuals gauge how well they are doing and the adjustments required for improvement. It has been found that when people k now they are below their target, they are most likely to increase their effort or devise a new strategy (Lethal & Locke, 1991 Feedback can be provided both during the process of achieving the goal or after the outcome.Additionally, feedback is also linked to increasing self-efficacy, which in turn leads to a higher performance (Lethal & Locke, 1991). Finally, in 1 996, Lethal examined the relationship between complex goals and performance levels. It was found that complex goals result in higher learning within individuals and thus led to a higher performance when compared to less complex goals. This can be explained by the idea that performance is not always achieved because of effort and persistence, but rather due to the cognitive understanding of the task and the development of various methods in solving the complex task (Lethal & Locke, 1991).Although this condition has to be addressed with care, complex tasks have been found to have an overall positive effect on reference level s (Lethal, 1996). THEORY IN ACTION The history of workplace motivation was initially driven by the belief that money was the primary source for employee motivation, but it was later found that various factors are motivators in determining workplace satisfaction, which is a predictor of job performance (Lethal, 2006).In the following decades, it will be crucial for leadership around the world to address the issue of workplace disengagement. In an organization, managers do not have the time and resources to constantly keep track of an employee's work or motivation. Most organizations use some form of goal setting in operation. Setting goals implies that there is a need or desire to attain a certain object or outcome (Locke & Lethal 2006). In essence, goals tell employees what needs to be accomplished and how much effort should be exerted.In the North American workplace, the direction of the goal setting theory appears to be an effective strategy in motivating staff to meeting organiza tional goals; this explains the abundant amount of evidence in us port of the theory and the various strategies constantly being developed. Based off of goal setting theory by Locke and Lethal, a popular mnemonic acronym developed for effective goal setting is S. M. A. R. T by George Doran. The outlined criteria for S. M. A. R. T. Goal setting states that goals should be specific, measurable, assignable, realistic, and time-bound.There have been other variations of S. M. A. R. T. That are also interchangeable such as using ââ¬Å"achievableâ⬠and ââ¬Å"relevantâ⬠instead of ââ¬Å"assignableâ⬠and ââ¬Å"realisticâ⬠, respectively. These goal-setting criteria can all be linked back to the five principles summarized by Locke and Lethal and is a popular management strategy used in the workforce. The implications of new strategies and discoveries suggest that goal setting is not an innate attribute that individuals are born tit. It a skill that can be taught, learnt , and practiced.The resources required by an organization to train its employees on successful goal setting is practical and the return can be significant. Large organizations such as General Electric (GE) and Federal Express Company (Faded) have also implemented this theory in their organizations. GE applies goal setting theory in all levels of the organization and refers to goal setting as a key ingredient of their success. After a trial run, Faded found that employees had greater accountability, clearer expectations, and more precise feedback towards their jobs. The initiative was then executed throughout other departments in the organization.In Locke and Lathe's report, they found truck drivers saved the company $250,000 in 9 months when the logs loaded on the trucks were increased as a result of upping the assigned goals (Locke & Lethal, 2002). In 1967, it was found that, United Fund communities that set monetary goals higher than the previous year's performance raised more mon ey than communities that set goals lower than their previous years performance. More recent studies show, negotiators who have clear, challenging, and complex goals achieve higher profits than those with no goals (Locke &Lethal, 2002) and telecommunication employees that set specific high goals had higher job satisfaction and high performance (Locke & Lethal 2002). These are just a few empirical examples of successful goal setting evidence in this field. The goal setting theory is especially prominent in individualistic cultures such as North America. This can be explained by the notion that goals have the ability to function as a self-regulatory mechanism that helps individuals prioritize tasks; also why managers widely accept goal setting as a means to improve and sustain performance (Dublin, 2012).The insights to all he studies show that when goal setting is done correctly and thoroughly throughout each stage, it significantly increases motivation, which is then associated with n umerous other positive outcomes such as an increase in job satisfaction, an increase in organizational commitment, an increase in performance, and more (Locke & Lethal, 2002). Aside from the countless examples of goal setting successes, there are still some limitations and weaknesses of the theory. The goal setting theory cannot be applied in segments and because of that, the outcomes of the set goals can be different than the initial intent.For instance, if a goal is not clear (I. E. It does not address the specific and measurable outcome), it is easy for the individual to lose track of the goal and the goal may never be achieved. Another consequence of the goal being unclear, the performance feedback aspect of the goal can be difficult to execute because there is no measurable component and it will be challenging to determine the adjustments required. On the other hand, if the goal encompasses all five principles, but is too difficult, the individual will not be able to achieve it regardless. It may even result in a hindrance in motivation and performance.Apart from the error in application, some other weaknesses include: individuals setting too many goals and not being able to follow through, individuals concentrating on only one goal and losing sight of the others resulting in tunnel vision, and individuals focusing too much attention on the outcome and forgetting about the process (Lethal, 2004). There are various extensions of the goal setting theory that are beyond the scope of this paper. Advances in the research are currently leaning towards studying how other goal setting variables such as learning goals, goal framing, and subconscious goals, interact with reference (Lethal, 2004).
Sunday, September 29, 2019
Case Analysis 1: Multistate Health Corporation Essay
Describe MHCââ¬â¢s strategy in terms of market position. Also, identify the type of external environment MHC is operating in and the degree to which the strategy matches the environment. In this particular case study of the Multistate Health Corporation their business strategy alignment was not well suited for that of the market. They decided to focus on two objectives that would give them success and deter away from the ââ¬Å"oversupply of bed space.â⬠One of the objectives were to focus on technology. ââ¬Å"The strategic planners departed from the previous strategy, opting to become a leader in the development of new health care technologies and proceduresâ⬠(Effective Training 51). The other objective that they decided to align with was to improve their efficiencies in their healthcare and outpatient services. The cause of this new direction for MHC is due to the changing environment of the healthcare system and the pressures that they were receiving from the federal and state government. In order to stay competitive with other healthcare facilities, they need to be proactive and adjust their business strategies to the needs of the environment. Identify the type of structure MHC currently uses in its primary businesses. Describe the fit between the structure and the competitive strategy. Describe any structural adjustments MHC should make to maximize the effectiveness of the strategy. The way that the Multistate Health Corporation is organization is through a three-tier hierarchy. At the top of the organization is the President and CEO of the company. Underneath this position there are three regional EVPs that report to the President and CEO. Within the three regions they have their own staff that is employed across several hospitals within those regions. With the new adjustments that they are making the increase in technologies and a new focus on outpatient services, they should really readjust the organizational hierarchy by including a Research andà Development sector that would be implemented across all of the regions instead of each region creating new technologies. This would definitely maximize the effectiveness of the new competitive strategy that could be instrumented more quickly and efficiently. Identify any areas where current management KSAs are not aligned with effective implementation of the competitive strategy. There seems to be contrasting opinions in regards to the HRPS Objectives. There are three different organizational levels that had outlooks on the current situation. The first organizational level is on the corporate level, regional as the second, and divisional as the third level. The regional and divisional level felt that improving the selection and searching process was the top objective of this strategy; however, corporate felt that creating and utilizing career development was the top priority. Here are two different precedents that levels within the organization feel is the most important. Their outlook for developing this new strategic plan are not in synced with one another and may cause future predicaments in implementation and development of the plan. Another issue that has seems to involve the current management is the KSAs of these employees. ââ¬Å"No system for evaluating the KSA required for a CEO in one part of the corporation compared with that of another. For example, the CEO in Grand Rapids has a different responsibilities compared with a CEO in Detroit, but no one at the corporate level knows what the differences areâ⬠(Effective Training 53). This is going to pose a problem because not everyone is on the same page and the competencies of these positions are not consisted between regions. There needs to be a certain set of KSAs and responsibilities based on a certain position throughout the entire organization, not based on a particular region. Having all employees equipped with the same competencies makes them more marketable within the organization.
Saturday, September 28, 2019
Workplace Motivation Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
Workplace Motivation - Case Study Example Mitsubishi Motors is the leading car manufacturer operating on the global scale. During 1990s, the company experienced problems with workers motivation which influenced productivity level and product quality. The main sources of resistance were lack of skills and low morale, low personal commitment and fear of technological changes (Mitsubishi Motors 2007). The corporation has to deal with motivation from the standpoint of the environment, that is, the various kinds of rewards and pressures within which people operate at work. Also, the corporation pays attention to motivation from the standpoint of the individual himself: his needs and purposes and how he acquires them. In order to increase productivity, Mitsubishi Motors develops new management strategies based on intrinsic motivation. As the most important, they underline manager's role in motivation and commitment. The key to a productivity-motivated workforce is a supervisory style which enhances the workers' proprietorship of their jobs. Management has too often approached the problem negatively, by depriving workers of control in order to forestall stoppages and goldbricking. Mitsubishi Motors pleads for a positive approach, for delegating this control in order to make the satisfactions of self-discipline possible (Scheuer, 2000). The morale changes occurred after men begin to think of themselves as belonging to a group. Part of the bargain is a worker's passive acceptance of any method that management might choose for organizing his work, even if this meant fragmenting his job to the point of tedium and regulating it to the point of puppetry (Scheuer, 2000). As a result, the men feel that they are important rather than taken for granted; each man knows that the group's record would suffer if he slackens, and most are determined not to let this happen. It is important to note that productivity is the goal, and control is merely one of several possible means to achieve it. The way to achieve the greatest profit is to remove the artificial impediments to productivity rather than to impose a regulatory system, no matter how tidy. A consistent record of excellence would then become a matter of personal pride rather than a meaningless exertion for somebody else's gain. The key to linking the individual's most pote nt aspirations to the goals of his company is his membership in a group which participates in its own management -- a group in which the role of the supervisor is changed from that of an enforcer or overseer to that of an expediter, an information giver, and above all an ego supporter. (Robbins, 2002). Security in the past and fear of change are another problems faced by Mitsubishi Motors. The 1990s were marked by technological and information changes, so many workers were afraid of negative consequences of these improvements. For a worker, the principal advantage of the old system is that he knows it well; it is at least predictable and that, for him, is not a small advantage by any means. He will not welcome change, but he is not likely to resist it very much, either. He considers resistance useless, and besides, he expects that in the long run all systems will work out about equally for him. Mitsubishi Motors introduces extensive training programs for assembly workers (off-job and on-job training). Also, the company proposes financial benefits for
Friday, September 27, 2019
Current event summary Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Current event summary - Personal Statement Example he comprehensive history of Luther is one that explains a leader who was willing, and motivated the society towards championing for their rights (Fandel & Bascle 28). The history of America is one that recalls the towers built by Luther that are transmitted from one generation to the next. Achua &Lussier indicate that Desmond Tutu is a leader that portrayed a lot servant leadership (332). Tutu derived a lot of meaning from an apprehension that their legacy is crucial in providing their followers with a foundation of self development, accord and companionship (Achua &Lussier 332). Tutu was a charismatic leader who made numerous sacrifices and suffered meaningfully on behalf of his people (Achua &Lussier 332). Abrams says that Thambo Mbeki is a leader that will be remembered for his commitment to leadership (88). He was dedicated and devoted to the people of South Africa, and fought continuously for his people. He is remembered for his fight against apartheid, and as a president, he attempted to heal the wounds of oppression from previous decades (24). Curtis & Manning is of the thought Adolf Hitler is one that is a good example of negative historical significance (23). Hitler as a leader during his tenure in 1919-1945, is indicated to have a lot of weaknesses, and used suggestion to lead (Curtis & Manning 23). Though Hitler had a good beginning, he had numerous personal weaknesses that led to his isolation, and label as a dictator (Curtis & Manning 23). Niagawoe is of the opinion that Charles Taylor, as a leader is one of the major contributors of the Liberian civil war (21). Taylor is accused of corrupt scandals that siphoned a lot of funds from the Liberian government. With crimes against humanity befalling his shoulders, Taylor has a lot of cases to answer with the International Criminal Court. Laufs says that Robert Mugabe is yet another leader that displayed vices of a manipulative leader (18). Mugabe is a leader that has resulted to not embracing
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Resource,learning and talent mgt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
Resource,learning and talent mgt - Essay Example Graphic models, data and regression statistics support studies on leadership. Barker (2001) finds that management and leadership are two diverse topics. The statement by Barker shows that leadership and management cannot be used in an interchangeable manner because of their diverse nature. The differences between management and leadership show that it is difficult for an individual to become a good leader and manager at the same time. Organizations offer platforms for learning and developing effective management and leadership practices. An individual has the capabilities of navigating the two positions with the right knowledge and experience (Darr, 2011, p. 4). Leaders identify possible areas that require change and pursue them. These changes are facilitated by organizational theories of action that enable employees and followers to map their actions. Leadership begins with an individualââ¬â¢s choice to pursue and begin the process of change. Organizations, groups and teams requi re effective managers and leaders who can successfully run operations. Leaders and managers influence their employeeââ¬â¢s job satisfaction and the operations of a learning organization. This means that leaders influence peopleââ¬â¢s actions and their abilities to map their actions in order to align with expected outcomes. ... e, Bill Gates assumes the state of both a leader and a manager though the two fields have different definitions, skill sets and behavioral consistency that contribute to effective leadership and management (Lesinski 2009 p. 45). For example, he motivates the workers by setting the vision of the organization, but also participates in providing operational guidelines as evident in the launch of various products within the company (Su-Chao, and Ming ââ¬â Shing 2007 p. 156). Differences between Leadership and Management Leadership involves acting on possibilities that can influence an organization. This means that leaders see possibilities, describe the possibilities and plan to pursue the possibilities (Lain & Judy 2001 p. 21). For example, Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Atlantic has assumed the role of a leader by providing a vision that contributes to the growth of the company. This has improved his standing in the society because he seems to understand the needs of the company bey ond the management, and administrative roles (Carter 2013 p. 2). Conversely, management occurs as the act of coordinating efforts of people in order to accomplish objectives and goals. For example, the Manager at Bank of America seems to focus on goals stipulated by the administrative entities as well as the vision of stakeholders. He rarely acts on his own since the organization works as a system. Leadership begins with an individual who is willing to act as an agent of change. The main role of a leader is to envision a future and become an agent of change for the achievement of the future. Leadership starts with an individualââ¬â¢s choice to begin the processes of change. According to Dessler (2004), leadership, ââ¬Å"is one person influencing another to willingly work towards a predetermined
Wednesday, September 25, 2019
How Not to Pay Retail by Jane Spence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
How Not to Pay Retail by Jane Spence - Essay Example However, with the changing patterns of prices, different products may have different ââ¬Ëbest buying timesââ¬â¢. For example, the best time to buy a compact disc is a few days after it has come to the market. For digital cameras, the best time to buy is the sprint where new models are produced and prices on the old stock are reduced. à The article gives some very common sense examples of how someone who wishes to be an early adopter of the latest technology gadget will have to pay a premium over someone who wishes to stay one generation behind the curve. For example, the article reports that the prices of video games fall on average by 30% every three to four months as newer titles are released on to the market and demand for older titles is reduced. à In the apparel industry, the increase of the amount of clothing sold on sale shows that retailers have to look at how and when they decide to put items on sale for their customers since clothes are most likely to be bought when they have been reduced from their standard retail prices. In a market where more than 60% of all clothes are sold on sale, market share is most likely to go to a retailer who has sales often and gives good discounts over regular prices. à Another good practice which can be used by retailers to preserve market share is the idea of bundling where one product at a sharp discount is bundled with another product with a high margin to gain a competitive advantage. In this manner, not only can the retailer look at sustaining its market share for a certain type of product, it can also seek to expand its market share for allied and complementary goods at the same time. à In some cases, the nature of the product itself may bring price competition to the forefront since it would be the only manner in which sellers can compete.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019
Engage with the topic of Pleistocene Re-wilding Essay
Engage with the topic of Pleistocene Re-wilding - Essay Example ies we know today came about as a result of evolution of mega carnivores and herbivores and therefore biodiversity is not what it is without this segment of megafauna. The plan to re-wild America is therefore the most suitable way out of total extinction of these species because even as debate is being generated on this move, more large vertebrates from Asia and Africa are constantly finding homes in America in the form of zoos and private reserves (Donlan, 913). It is estimated that there are more Asian tigers in America that in the wild. The process of re-wilding North America has in fact started and all that is left is to move these animals in captivity to the free world of the US landscapes. The success of this process will be founded on the following tenets: That human beings have a natural attraction to megafauna which the explanation to why San Diegoââ¬â¢s Wild Animal Park receives 1.5 million visits annually much more than the total number of visits to US national parks that are homes to rodent and other small animal species (Donlan, 914). Releasing the captured animals couples with their relationship with the American ecosystem given t heir extinct ancestors roamed the American plains is enough reason to get the process of re-wilding started. Wild Bactrian camels that are currently facing extinction in the Gobi desert had their ancestors, Camelops, originate from North America and therefore taking them back home to America would rescue this species from total extinction. Another basis is that, even with the surging world human population, regions of Southwest America that are the possible home of these re-introduced species are experiencing population decline providing sufficient room for the megafuna to roam and reproduce. As the custodians of world heritage, the human race is ethically bound to ensure large vertebrate are not extinct and this responsibility, coupled with the potential economic and biological benefits that come with re-wilding, provides
Monday, September 23, 2019
Revolutions in the West Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
Revolutions in the West - Assignment Example With reference to Singerââ¬â¢s views, this paper aims to critically analyze and give views as to what can be termed ethical and justified with regard to such questions. In the process of establishing whether we should give aid or not to the poor, some people feel that giving aid helps only in increasing the number of people in the world. The end result is that more people end up in poverty (Dower, 1991). This argument seems a selfish one as the proponents view it as an increase in the global ecological catastrophes. When looked at empirically, then it would emerge that once basic developments are achieved in an individualââ¬â¢s life, population growth slows down (Dower, 1991). As well, being that global ecological dangers are connected to underdevelopment issues, affluence remains the only thing to be addressed (Dower, 1991). Whether this view would hold water with respect to giving aid to poorer countries and people, an analysis of Singerââ¬â¢s views would be critical. The question of whether wealthy people in affluent countries have a moral duty or not to help poor people in developing countries is a debate that Singer responds to by saying that we have an obligation to assist (Singer 172, 239). Considering the example he gives concerning a baby trapped in a pond, his premise and conclusion stand out both controversial and uncontroversial. A better analysis of whether this conclusion holds water or not shows starts by first examining the point of view that Singer gives (Singer 172, 239). Singer argues that if it is in our power to prevent something bad from happening, we should go ahead and do so by sacrificing anything of comparable moral significance. This is one view that would win the opinion of consequentialists and on the other hand repel those of nonconsequatentialists (Singer 172, 240). In his view, the conclusion he has can in a large way
Sunday, September 22, 2019
Scientific method Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2
Scientific method - Essay Example icides, monoculture, and the Green Revolution), and industry and urban development (linked to the utilization of more ecological resources and the production of more pollution and wastes (Hester and Harrison 56-7 & Likens and Bormann 17). Micro to macro processes in an ecosystem - Micro ecosystems exist in locations characterized by elements such as nutrient supply, temperature, pH, etc. within small areas. Macro ecosystems are identified as a community of living organisms interacting with each other, and their physical setting that increases spontaneously into a group of communities (Hester and Harrison 27). Impact that human activities have on the biosphere ââ¬â The biosphere is a closed system consisting of dependent ecosystems thriving in a symbiotic environment. It does not need a lot of trigger to upset this balance. Human activities such as population can lead to the usage of resources and lower biodiversity (Hester and Harrison 89-90). Nonrenewable and renewable natural resources ââ¬â Renewable resources are those that can be replaced through natural means. A good example of this is the forests. Non-renewable resources are those that cannot be replaced through natural means. A good example of this is the fossil fuel (Likens and Bormann 47 &
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Family Relationship in Movie the Descendant Essay Example for Free
Family Relationship in Movie the Descendant Essay The Kingââ¬â¢s family depicted in the movie ââ¬Å"The Descendantâ⬠reflects the family live style and dynamic in many of the typical middle income families. The core values that the Kingââ¬â¢s family fostering, such as love the nature, honest to each other and the united of the family, are in rooted with their heritage as the Hawaiian. The tragic incident of the main character Matt Kingââ¬â¢s wife Elizabeth provides an opportunity for Matt to review his relationship with his seventeen-years-old daughter Alexandra and ten-year-old daughter Scottie. During the coma of Elizabeth, Matt learned how to be a real father. He is growing with his daughters and building a strong relationship within his family. The author believes the Kingââ¬â¢s family in this movie set an adequate role model for families to learn how to reestablish a dysfunctional family to a healthy family. Primary Relationships Matt King is a lawyer specialized in real estate transaction. He is also a sole trustee of 25,000 aces of Kauai virgin land passed from his ancestor. He lives with his wife Elizabeth, older daughter Alexandra, who is 17 years old and a younger daughter Scottie, who is 10 years old in Hawaii. Matt is too concentrated to his work. He has very little time to be with his family members. He neglected his wife, he has not seriously talk to his wife for years, in fact, he hasnt talk to his wife three days before she had the boating accident and dying in the hospital. He doesnââ¬â¢t involve much with his daughters; he thinks that taking care of the daughter is her wifes responsibility. Since Matt hardly has time to Elizabeth, she has spend many her time in playing motor boat racing; parting with her friends, and heavily drinking. Until 23 days ago, she had an accident on her boat which was driving by her friend. Alexandra is in a boarding school because her parents want to discipline her with alcoholic and dating with older man issues. She loves her family members, however, she refused to talk to her mother after last Christmas because she found out that Elizabeth was dating another man, and she was angry with her for betraying her marriage. Scottie was a lost young girl. She has difficulty to make friends at school; she often uses inappropriate body language and profanity language when talking with people during she was angry. She likes to put on Alexandras under dress to express her eagerness of being a big girl. All the behavior of Scottie is try to get peoples attention. She wants people to care of her feeling and interact with her more. She revealed that all the behaviors and languages were learned from Alexandra. Scott is Elizabeths father. He loves Elizabeth dearly. In his eye, Elizabeth is a strong and thoughtful girl; she devoted one hundred percent to her family; and takes good care of the daughters. No one can compare with her, even the granddaughters. Familys Developmental Stage Kings family was living in a nuclear family with adolescent girl and young girl before the wife, Elizabeth was comatose. The absent of mother in the family, turned Matt, the father from a backup parent to in charge. The daughters have to adapt their fathers new role and live with a single parent; while all of the family members have to accept the death of Elizabeth. Before Elizabeth was hospitalized, this family was a dysfunctional family already. With Elizabeth alcoholism and life risk motorboat racing hobby, workaholic Matt, alcoholic recovery Alexandra, and left alone Scottie; the family was in the movement of centrifugal. It seems that Matt and Elizabeth did not have a parents system in the family. They did not set the clear boundaries to their daughters. Their daughters do not respect them and they do not have authorities. When Matt started to take charge of the family, he self-examination the familys development, and decided to change from a distance father to be a caring father. He constantly reminding his daughters to use the appropriated language and talking with people with respect, event the mother was not able to listen, they still need to talk to her the was to pay their respect. He draws a very clear boundary for their daughter of being respect to parents and grandparents. The family crisis of losing the mother provided a chance for them to be more closed to each other. Alexandra reflected from Scotties behavior and started to be a better role model for her young sister; she is lso a main support for her father to recover from the hurtful feeling of wifes infidelity, and defending her grandpas incorrect accusation of her father treating her mother. Scotties behavior is getting less dramatic. Matt and Alexandra spend time with her and educate her about selecting the right friend and avoid the bad influence her friends. Without the mother in their life, the structure of the family changed. Alexandra alliance with the father and they make the family reac ted to the crisis more positive and reduced the negative impact to the minimum. The family slowly moves toward the centripetal. Familys style of communication The family had a poor communication system before the tragic incident of Elizabeth. Matt neglects her wife; he had not talked with her for three days before the comatose and had not talked with her for serious matter for ten years. Matt also not communicate with his daughters well neither. He did not talk with her younger daughter since she was three years old. When Matt and Elizabeth found out the problem of her older daughter, they put her in boarding school. There were frequent verbal fighting in the family; Matt with Elizabeth, Elizabeth with Alexandra, and Alexandra with Scottie; for the issues of what they want. When Matt took charge of the family during Elizabeth was hospitalized, he often gave order to the daughters and the daughters often ignored him and kept to do things their way. At the last stage of the movie, the family life cycle has changed and they must to learn how to communicate better in order to live in a functional and health family. The non-verbal communication style in the last scent indicated that they are moving toward that direction. Strengths, Weakness and Clinical Problems The strength of the family is they love each others; they treasure the family as a whole and against anyone who try to break their unity. The weakness of the family is they lack of communication skill, they donââ¬â¢t devote enough time to each other as a family. Matt and Elizabeth have challenge on parenting their daughters. Matt complaining Elizabeth for not being a good role model and Elizabeth complaining Matt for neglecting her and the daughters only bought the high tension in the family, but not solve the problem. The couple has marriage issue and Matt may better take Elizabeths advice to seek professional help together. For their daughters behavior issues, they could go to family counseling together. Matt was being accused by Elizabeth about his out of touch of his own feeling; he could talk to the therapist how to feel about this accusation. Therapist could help Elizabeth find a better way to handle the drinking issue and the feeling of being neglect by Matt. Therapist could discuss with Alexandra what is the underneath cause to her drinking problem and wanted to data the older person. Therapist could talk to Scottie and help her to see the cost and benefit of using profanity language and inappropriate body language. As a whole family, therapist could guide them using effective language to address their concerns and avoid any angry complains. Have each of the family members to agree on getting a regular family time to bond their relationship. Relevant Gender Concerns Matt and Elizabeth were growing up in the Hawaii, and Matt has the blood of the indigenous royalty of Hawaii. The met in the law school and established their family later. The only relevant cultural concern would be the male supremacy. This reflected from the Elizabeth who had to stay home to take care of the daughters with a law degree, but Matt is devoted hundred percent of his effort and time to his law firm. Conclusion In the family development, it is normal to have family structure change and experience some different degree of family crisis. Some families can survive from the change or crisis; they adapt the new situation and move on to form a healthy family relationship. Some families cannot sustain the impact of the change or crisis; they fell apart and each of them develop a different kind of symptoms and hard to stay as a family anymore. With Kings family illustration, the author believes, if every family members willing to take their responsibilities, setting a goal for helping each other to living a better life, remaining family unity and love each other as their core value, having effective strategies, such as making clean boundaries from parent to children and making new alliance to a subsystem, then, such family will be not only survive but evolve from the crisis and living in a much healthier and functional family.
Friday, September 20, 2019
Examining Prejudice and Discrimination in Singapore
Examining Prejudice and Discrimination in Singapore In this essay, we will be explaining and giving the definitions of prejudice and discrimination. Also, we will go in depth and elaborate about the various kinds of discrimination in todays society such as gender, disability, size, looks, monetary, status, education, sexual and racial discrimination. After which, we will give solutions and ways to reduce racial discrimination in Singapore. Finally we will end with a round up of conclusion. Prejudice and discrimination is a rising issue in todays society. According to Dictionary.com, prejudice is an unfavorable opinion or feeling formed beforehand or without knowledge, thought, or reason. Discrimination is the treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favor of or against, a person or thing based on theà group, class, or category to which that person or thing belongs rather than on individual merit: racial and religious intolerance and discrimination. To be prejudiced is to have a cultural mindset and that is relied on negative or unpleasant stereotypes about individuals or groups because of their ethnic, religious, racial or cultural background. To discriminate is to have an active denial of desired goal from a certain group of people. The group can be based on sex, ethnicity, nationality, religion, language, or even class. More recently, disadvantaged groups now also include those based on gender, age, and physical disabilities. Prejudice and discrimination are very common at both the individual and societal levels. Any attempt to eradicate or solve the problem of prejudice and discrimination must thus deal with prevailing beliefs or ideologies, and social structure. Gender- There are many types of discrimination. Gender discrimination, also known as sexism is very common. In most societies, women have been viewed as the weaker sex who is in constant need of protection from the rough world. Women are more delicate by nature compared to men, and are often victims of physical, emotional and psychological abuse. Gender discrimination does not only apply in communities and sometimes families but also a lot of times in workplaces. In Chinese Culture, boys are more wanted than girls as they can pass down the family name. According to BBC news, around a million girl fetuses are aborted and tens of thousands of girl babies are abandoned in China, every year. A boy will bring status and he will also continue the family line. Families also throw big celebrations for baby boys while neglecting the less-wanted girls. The preference for boys is tied up in the Confucian belief that male heirs are necessary to carry on the family name and take care of the family spirit s. A Chinese family worries that if there is no son no one will look after them and keep them company in the afterlife. Confucius once said, There are three ways of being disloyal to your ancestors. Not carrying on the family name is the worse. In early Japan, there is large gender discrimination. They have a saying that goes men as breadwinners and women as homemakers. Even after Japan introduced the Equal Employment Opportunity Law in 1985, which prohibited discrimination against women in employment and urged employers to treat women equally in terms of recruitment, job assignment and promotion. But, they are still the last to be rehired in a full-time job. Japanese women are also expected to quit their job if they have children. Even if companies are facing a shortage of workers, they had no plan to try to hire more women. Women have to work twice as hard as man to advance their careers because of the prejudices within Japanese companies. Their university education is roughly the same as those without an upper secondary education. In 1997, statistics show that Japanese women hold only 9.3% of professional positions, compared to 44.3% in the United States. Womens income is only 45%of mens even though they make up 64% of J apan industry. Females appear to be less strongly oriented toward personal terminal values than men, but more strongly oriented toward moral means. Also in sports, especially soccer, where female officials/referees are slowly introduced to the male side of the game are being discriminated. One such example was Andy Gray, a former footballer, popular football pundit and commentator. He was British television channel Sky Sports main pundit since 1992. However, he was fired after he was found to made sexist comments and made offensive gestures to a female co-presenter. He had commented, Can you believe that? A female linesman. Women dont know the offside rule. in which his fellow presenter, Richard Keys replied, Course they dont. Somebody better get down there and explain. during a post-match show when they thought they were off air. In another show, he was caught on camera( in which it was edited out later on) tugging his pants and asking his female co-presenter Charlotte Jackson to tuck the microphone into his pants. (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/3371091/Andy-Gray-sacked-over-sexism-row.html) In Singapore today, Gender discrimination while still existent, is less obvious. Disability Besides the various types of discriminations stated above, there is also a discrimination against the disabled people. Having a disability means that a person has a physical or mental impairment. This in turn has a substantial and long-term negative effect on ones ability to carry out normal everyday activities. Disability discrimination occurs when one is treated less favorably because of their disability as compared to someone without a disability. This is known as direct discrimination. There are cases in which people with some form of disability are treated differently, or are victimized. People who are not disabled laugh at the disabled because of the way they walk or talk. These people gang up and make fun of the disabled. They belittle them, and feel satisfied with themselves. The disabled are not able to do anything about it because there are too many people treating them that way. There is also indirect discrimination where everyone is treated equally, but by treating everyo ne equally, the disabled is put to a disadvantage. This is more subtle and may also be unintentional. An example would be when there are stairs to enter a building but a person with a disability might not be able to use the stairs and may need a ramp. Size/looks Being of a different size or looking different may also be a form of prejudice and discrimination. Often during first meetings, people are judged on first impressions, and first impressions are all about the visuals. Many a time people are discriminated against just because they are too fat, too skinny or not good looking enough. Society has set a standard where everyone wants an ideal body and face. This is known as the golden ratio. The ratio of (foot to navel): (navel to head) is the golden ratio of the human body. A persons face has to be symmetrical and have nice proportions to be considered good looking. There is a reason why plastic surgeries are in demand. While applying for jobs, people are required to attach photos of themselves. More often than not, the people who are better looking tend to get the job as compared to those who are less good looking. Then there is the case of body size. People tend to make remarks about fat people and fat jokes. An example would be Yo Mama So Fat jokes, which is very common. Even though different cultures have a preference for people of different sizes, everyone in general prefer slim to fat. Monetary/financially- Financial discrimination is when people look down on others that they are poorer than them. This will affect them if they want to find a job, get a rent or buy an apartment. People tend to look at the appearance to analyze whether you are rich or you are poor. For example, salesman will normally look for people that are trendier from those who wear clothes that seem old and tear. Service staff of well-known brand in some regions might not serve or even come up to you if they think that you have no money to pay if they let you try. So, what is the point to spend so much time to serve you? In United States, there is a case that they are discriminating against the blind people by refusing to make money readable for them as they think there do not have the need. They dont go out a lot, there does not have many chance for them to use the notes. Even for the device that is specially made for them to differentiate the money is expensive. At the end, blind people have to folding their bills in different positions to tell them apart. (http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/395668/financial_discrimination_against_the.html?cat=15) Financial discrimination also involved the low-waged workers. In a way that large number were paid lesser than the minimum wage that they should get and they had worked overtime without pay. When they get injured in the work place, they had to pay the bills themselves instead of having compensation from their company. (http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=112506238) Status/Education For status discrimination, most of this happens in the work place. We can see lot of who butter up status that up high and despise those who have low status than them. Everybody wants to get to a higher place. For these people that have status discrimination in mind, they normally think that this is a short cut and time saving way. For lower status in the society, they are always afraid of offending the people of the higher status. This is because they cant afford to spend the money to fight cases with them. We can also see employer refuse to hire people that have foreign name, speaks with accent, from another country or even locals who does not have a high level certificate. Competition is getting higher and higher in the work place. Nowadays, it is the certificate of education that decides the fate of status in society. Without a certificate, you will get no jobs. In Singapore, there are several foreign domestic worker abuse cases. Many do not know how to speak English and many doesnt know where to seek for help. There are also many cases about children bring their parents to old folks homes and do not care about them anymore, or old folks being abuse because they are a burden to the family. Sexual discrimination (gay/sexual orientation) People often get confused between gender discrimination and sexual discrimination. While gender discrimination is biased opinions about the female/male gender, sexual discrimination is about their sexual orientation. In society today, talking about homosexuality is still an uncomfortable and touchy topic. While it has progressed from the past where homosexuality was illegal and you could be hanged for admitting that you were a homosexual, it has now been legally acceptable to pronounce yourself one. However this does not stop the community around you to form perceptions and opinions about you. The 2 main places where Sexual discrimination is most evident are in schools and the workplace. In the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), homosexuals and effeminate men are managed according to the dictates of a manpower directive issued. Probably its most well know classification is Category 302, a medical code given to servicemen who are homosexuals, transvestites, paedophiles, etc. homosexuals are further classified into those with effeminate behaviour and those without effeminate behaviour. This form of discrimination persists despite the fact that homosexuality was depathologised by the American Psychiatric Association in 1973, and homosexuality is not regarded as a psychiatric condition by the local medical profession. More so, the categorization of homosexuality with transvestism and paedophilia by the SAF further backs up the publics wrong impression that it is abnormal. During the enlistment for Nation Service, any self-declared or discovered servicemen who are homosexual are immediately referred and sent to the Psychological Medicine Branch of the Headquarters of Medical Services for a thorough psychiatric assessment. After which, each of their parents are to come in for an interview. Once they are catagorised as a homosexual, they are instantly medically downgraded to a Public Employment Status of C (PES C), regardless of their level of fitness, and put through modified Basic Military Training. After Basic Military Training, they are deployed into a vocation which has no security risks, posted to non-sensitive units and given a security status which restricts their access to classified documents. (http://knol.google.com/k/discrimination-against-homosexuals-in-singapore#Singapore_Armed_Forces) In Singapore, while being homosexual is legal, same-sex marriage is not, and any acts of indecency between two people of the same sex, will have you charged. Singapore being a diverse nation, which encourages harmony between different race, religion and background does not have as many Sexual discrimination cases as compared to America. In fact, according to BBC News on 16 May 2009, there was an event help by pinkdot.sg to commemorate love in all forms and between people of every orientation. The event was for Singaporeans in general to affirm our respect for diversity and the freedom to love, regardless of sexual orientation. Figure : 2,500 pink-attired supporters of gay rights, in a Singapore park. We recognize that many Singaporeans are conservative so we planned an inclusive event that would reach all Singaporeans, straight and gay, organizer Mr Soh says. Racial Racial discrimination is the discriminatory or abusive behavior towards members of another race, also known as Racism. Where most countries do not condone Racism, it is still exists and has become a stereotype in society today. In the US, many laws forbid racial discrimination, and a number of these are directly derived from Title VII in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and the Civil Rights Act of 1991. The first of these acts makes manifest that employers cannot refuse to hire qualified employees based on race or skin color, and they cant do other things like harass them for race, refuse promotions, or pay them at lower rates. The 1991 Civil Rights Act defines some ways that people who have experienced racial discrimination can sue. Till today, racial discriminations still exist, especially in workplaces where largely foreign workers are employed (mostly Chinese nationals, Bangladeshis and Indian nationals). Faced with language barriers and already lowly paid, they still have to follow orders and listen to vulgarities being thrown at them by their local employers and superiors. The same can be said for domestic helpers, where there are numerous reports of physical (and sometimes sexual) abuses by their employers and agencies. Solutions that can be used to reduce prejudice and discrimination in Singapore Education It not right to judge someone base on his or her race. They might look different from others but they are still human. In order to make people minimize discrimination, it is better to start from the younger generation because they are the future. First step is to take down the Special Assistance Plan( a programme that is catered to students who achieved the top 10% of the Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLE)) school system (Aaron, 2006). This school system concentrate on Chinese education as there are so many Chinese students and that most of these schools has rich Chinese traditions and history (eg, Hwa Chong Institution). Therefore, how can the racism be reduced in schools like this. Furthermore, government schools should also include religious subject in their system. In addition, universities should also organize some events that relates to intercultural exchanges. This will give an opportunity for students of any nationality to study different cultures. Workplace The company should take racially and culturally staff (Strategies for Reducing Racism, 2001). It is not only for worker and for employee but also apply for management or director. Talk to different people from different cultural and try to figure out what is problem that they have meet. By doing this, the organization will know what they need to do to improve better working environment for their employees. Moreover, try to put different pictures of multicultural so none will feel isolate. Furthermore, there should be a special team to solve any racial problem in the workplace. This group can also come up with some activities for employees so everybody can get closer to each other. Race In Singapore alone, the government has implemented racial harmony. It was in 1964, that Singapore went through 2 five-day periods of racial riots. First in 21st July and second was in 2nd September. The minority of Malays in Singapore had thought that they would benefit from the special rights for Malays that was part of the 1957 Federation of Malaya Constitution when Singapore merged with Malaya. However, it was not part of the agreement of the merger that the special rights were applicable for the Malays in Singapore as well, causing unrest among the Singapore Malays. Reason being that then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew had wanted equal rights for all Singapore citizens, regardless of race. The riots that broke out in the 2 dates resulted in lives lost and many injured. (http://infopedia.nl.sg/articles/SIP_45_2005-01-06.html) And so, on 21st July, which was also the date that the first racial riot broke out in 1964, is celebrated as Racial Harmony Day, in which inter-racial harmony is emphasized and celebrated in schools which students are allowed and also encouraged to dress up in traditional costumes of races other than their own. As most Singaporeans stays in HDB flats, the government have also implemented certain racial quotas for certain flats so that there is a balance between races in a neighbourhood. For instance, certain flats are only allowed to be bought by a certain race. If so happens that the owner of the flat wishes to sell the flat, the buyer would have to be of the same race as the previous owner so that there is always a balance in the races within the area. Because of this rule, there are many cases whereby neighbours of different races have inter-cultural exchanges during festive periods. Like how an Indian neighbor share their homemade delicacies with their Chinese neighbour and vice versa. Locality Welcome new people no matter where they come from, give them some flower or small gift with nice saying such as It is nice to meet you; I hope you will enjoy living here. In this way, everybody will act equally with each other and there will be no prejudice or racism. Another way is that some family can even put the sign with the writing All race are welcome here. By doing this, the new people will feel just like at home. Individual People do not have to make a group in order to reduce racism. People can minimize discrimination by themselves. Just be nice and be polite to everybody. Be brave to stand up again racial discrimination, read book or research about racism on the internet. Talk to those who still a victim of discrimination so people will understand more about this issue. Media As Racial Harmony Day is only emphasized in schools, it can also be spread through the media like radio, television, movies, etc, so that both young and old can be more educated about the importance of racial harmony. Having Racial Harmony Day in school is not enough as the younger generations could still be influenced by others around them especially family members and neighbours. Even though the older generations might have grown up with different races in the older kampong days, there still might be possibility that they have prejudices against other races due to conflicts that might have happened in the past. Conclusion After looking at prejudice and racial discrimination in Singapore, there is still a lot to be done even though it is a multi-racial society as it is still very much a predicament in Singapore. Through our solutions such as more inter-cultural exchanges outside of schools where the government is only implementing the racial harmony idealism, in my opinion, racial harmony must still be educated to each and everyone regardless of age so that everyone knows the importance of racial harmony. Bibilogy http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/1506469.stm http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/8054402.stm http://aaron-ng.info/blog/racism-in-singapore.html
Thursday, September 19, 2019
The Rise and Fall of Country Music Essay -- Music, Robert Johnson
Is country music still country music? Country music has roots unlike any other genre of American music. Country music was one of the most influential styles of music in the twentieth century. It had stars such as Hank Williams and Johnny Cash. These stars represented what the South felt. They understood shotgun weddings, not knowing where the next meal would come from, and fearing the wrath of God while simultaneously loving the sweet and instant satisfaction that sin brings. They took those pains and painted beautiful, harsh, and most importantly real portraits of life. The majority of todayââ¬â¢s country music, the country that is played on mainstream radio, has lost its serious feel and replaced it with a more laid back soundââ¬âwhich at times makes it hard to hear the difference between a rock song and a country songââ¬âand it has left behind authenticity for its Nashville sound and pursuit of money and popular appeal. Country music branches off into many sub-genres. You have the blues of Robert Johnson, the more pure country music of Williams and Cash, and the southern rock of Lyndyrd Skynyrd and The Drive-By Truckers. What is the difference between this music and the music played on the radio today? Dana Jennings, the author of Sing Me Back Home and a self-proclaimed country music lover opens his book describing authentic country music like this: ââ¬Å"Country music is the backfire of a rattletrap pickup truck creaking down a dirt road and the lowing of a lone cow. Itââ¬â¢s music for scouring junkyards, setting out to the porch, and shooting horseshoesâ⬠¦its TB, orphan music, and outhouse music. Itââ¬â¢s potato sack dresses, loyal three-legged dogs, and water lugged from the wellâ⬠(Jennings 1). This is the type of music played on the radio fifty ... ...hen I had it/ now it is gone Iââ¬â¢m learning what that isâ⬠. This is the story of hating a nine to five job but realizing life is not easy by any stretch of the imagination. It is real. Good country music is still being made, just not for the radio. Trampled by Turtles, Avett Brothers, Bill Mallonee, and Drive-By Truckers are all consistently putting out great country albums. There are plenty more artists like them, putting out songs not just to make a buck, but also to express their pains and struggles, songs you can relate to and songs with feeling. It makes it that much more special finding a good country band. Sooner or later, Nashville will pay for her sins. But until then, listening to Southern Rock Opera will teach you ten times more about human frailty and the daily struggles of ordinary people than listening to a hundred hours of a country radio station.
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Persecution of Hispanics Exposed in David Hernandezââ¬â¢s Pigeons Essay
Persecution of Hispanics Exposed in David Hernandezââ¬â¢s Pigeons The word ââ¬Å"outsiderâ⬠is typically used when describing someone or something that just does not fit in. An outsider is different and distinct, but not always valued or appreciated for its diversities. Quite the opposite of being appreciated, the outsider is usually castrated from whatever society it might have appeared in, and looked down upon for its differences. Sadly, outsiders are frequent in humanity. Whether the purpose for their outsider status relates to gender, race, religion or even economical standing, the fact is that there are outsiders in todayââ¬â¢s society. When one is made into an outsider, the bias they experience is terrible and unjust, and they are unable to prosper where most so- called ââ¬Å"insidersâ⬠would be more likely to flourish. When people are made into outsiders, their metaphorical wings are clipped, and they are unable to ââ¬Å"take flightâ⬠and honestly reach their true potential as human beings. David Hernandez, a poet from Chicago, wrote ââ¬Å"Pigeons,â⬠a poem that addresses this issue of discrimination, and I agree with all of his various claims about insiders and how they are prejudiced against outsiders. In the poem, Hernandez uses the imagery of pigeons and doves to compare and contrast the treatment of ethnic outsiders (Hispanics in particular) and Caucasians in American society. Hernandez details the many struggles that pigeons must deal with in order to function in their society, calling pigeons ââ¬Å"the spiks of Birdlandâ⬠(1023). Why are the pigeons labeled as ââ¬Å"spiks,â⬠though? ââ¬Å"Spikâ⬠is a derogatory term used when addressing people of Latin American descent. ââ¬Å"Spikâ⬠is also one of the many labels that American s... ... discrimination, but it is not the outsiders who need to change. It is the insiders who persecute the outsiders for their differences that need a transformation. The insiders need a lesson in acceptance and tolerance. The doves should take a look at the pigeons and see a race that is proud of its heritage, even though they are oppressed because of it. The pigeons, in spite of being deemed the ââ¬Å"spiks of Birdland,â⬠should always celebrate who they are and be dancing in the streets (Hernandez 1023). To dance is to fly, and as long as the pigeons keep on dancing, their wings will forever be intact and they will always be able to fly, in spite of their persecution. Works Cited Hernandez, David. ââ¬Å"Pigeons.â⬠Making Literature Matter: An Anthology for Readers and Writers. Ed. John Schilb and John Clifford. Boston: Bedford/St. Martinââ¬â¢s, 2000.1023-24.
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
The Modern Women Essay -- Gender Roles, Blaxploitation
Common misrepresentations of women are said to be that they are weak and inferior to men in which American society continuously place women in these roles within domestic, political, economic, and social settings. The public rarely pays tribute to the feminine heroine because she is unrecognized and unseen in American culture. However, during the 1960s to 1970s, African-American female representation has changed the way we define femininity and the modern woman through the genre known as Blaxploitation. Blaxploitation was a genre created for the black and urban audiences which highlighted black unity and empowerment. With this, the ââ¬Å"idealâ⬠black woman has changed. Through the workings of Edward Guerrero, Eithne Quinn, and Yvonne Sims, I am going to explain the key origins and definitions of Blaxploitation in which Guerrero takes a socioeconomic standpoint and Quinn and Sims value a more social view. With Quinnââ¬â¢s and Simsââ¬â¢s point-of-views, I will argue that B laxploitation have altered the ideas of African-American female representation in which characters like Foxy Brown have assumed masculine traits, thus, making her a stronger female. Lastly, I will discuss what Guerrero is missing in relation to the black female representation compared the real world. According to Edward Guerrero, the origins of Blaxploitation occurred during the Civil Rights Movement as a film strategy for the deteriorating film industry. During 1960, profits from the box office decreased from $60 million to $15 million; however, in 1967, one-third of the black population added to the box office gross and Hollywood used this fact towards making a profit .The large African-American population within the movie industry was due to their desire to spectate black... ...tion and is only limited to his socioeconomic argument. Although authors like Guerrero, Quinn, and Sims have different observations of their origins and definitions of Blaxploitation, they can all agree the notion of how it was popular among African-American audiences. Guerrero argues that Blaxploitation was a mockery of Black Nationalism and was created for the sole-purpose of profit of Hollywood. Also, Quinn believes that Blaxploitation was created after the Civil Rights movement to highlight individualism and needs of the powerful black male in which these traits portrays the male as violent and sexual; and lastly, Sims adheres to the idea that female characters later embodied these traits to illustrate the important of women in film. Unlike Quinn and Sims, Guerrero does not see the important of the gender dynamics of the black heroine within Blaxploitation. The Modern Women Essay -- Gender Roles, Blaxploitation Common misrepresentations of women are said to be that they are weak and inferior to men in which American society continuously place women in these roles within domestic, political, economic, and social settings. The public rarely pays tribute to the feminine heroine because she is unrecognized and unseen in American culture. However, during the 1960s to 1970s, African-American female representation has changed the way we define femininity and the modern woman through the genre known as Blaxploitation. Blaxploitation was a genre created for the black and urban audiences which highlighted black unity and empowerment. With this, the ââ¬Å"idealâ⬠black woman has changed. Through the workings of Edward Guerrero, Eithne Quinn, and Yvonne Sims, I am going to explain the key origins and definitions of Blaxploitation in which Guerrero takes a socioeconomic standpoint and Quinn and Sims value a more social view. With Quinnââ¬â¢s and Simsââ¬â¢s point-of-views, I will argue that B laxploitation have altered the ideas of African-American female representation in which characters like Foxy Brown have assumed masculine traits, thus, making her a stronger female. Lastly, I will discuss what Guerrero is missing in relation to the black female representation compared the real world. According to Edward Guerrero, the origins of Blaxploitation occurred during the Civil Rights Movement as a film strategy for the deteriorating film industry. During 1960, profits from the box office decreased from $60 million to $15 million; however, in 1967, one-third of the black population added to the box office gross and Hollywood used this fact towards making a profit .The large African-American population within the movie industry was due to their desire to spectate black... ...tion and is only limited to his socioeconomic argument. Although authors like Guerrero, Quinn, and Sims have different observations of their origins and definitions of Blaxploitation, they can all agree the notion of how it was popular among African-American audiences. Guerrero argues that Blaxploitation was a mockery of Black Nationalism and was created for the sole-purpose of profit of Hollywood. Also, Quinn believes that Blaxploitation was created after the Civil Rights movement to highlight individualism and needs of the powerful black male in which these traits portrays the male as violent and sexual; and lastly, Sims adheres to the idea that female characters later embodied these traits to illustrate the important of women in film. Unlike Quinn and Sims, Guerrero does not see the important of the gender dynamics of the black heroine within Blaxploitation.
Monday, September 16, 2019
Musician Portrait: Bob Dylan Essay
Bob Dylan brought the folk traditions of artists such as Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger to both the mainstream and beatnik culture of America, and into the rock and roll era. His writing provided a more thoughtful counterpart to The Beatles and the other musicians of the era, who were always more commercially successful, fusing popular music with an intellectuality and social conscience. His lyrics were the first to be analysed and seriously regarded as literature and his words today represent part of the Western Canon, cited by presidents, scholars and musicians in equal measure (Rolling Stone 2001). For five decades he has been writing and performing, and his works are hugely varied in musical and lyrical content, from blues-influenced anti-war sing-alongs to ecclesiastical-funk in the rather forgettable born-again Christian years. His lyricsââ¬â¢ social commentary ââ¬â particularly in his earlier years ââ¬â truly fulfils the role of folk-music in spreading tales and ideas by oral means, which will always be a refreshing memory of when the large proportion of popular songs didnââ¬â¢t seem to revolve around either fellatio or handguns. Biography Ethnic/Racial Roots and Early Years Bob Dylan was born Robert Zimmerman into a Jewish family in Minnesota, where he grew up in the earliest years of rock and roll, and popular music as a whole. While his Jewish roots had little effect on his musicianship and career, it was the work of singers such as Elvis and Little Richard that led the boy to pursue both the piano and the electric guitar ââ¬â which he would later shun for many years ââ¬â and begin to write music; performing in several high school bands. He also found an icon in James Dean, collecting memorabilia (Life in Hibbing 2002) and riding a motorcycle, which would almost kill him and send him into his longest period of seclusion in the late 60s. Though overshadowed for many years by his folk-revival status, rock and roll was what had the greatest influence his youth and earliest musical beginnings. Music Formative Years In his high-school yearbook, Dylan is said to have written his ambition as being ââ¬Ëto join Little Richardââ¬â¢ (No Direction Home 1998), however folk music replaced these ambitions during his brief education at the University of Minneapolis. The shift away from rock and roll can be attributed to his maturity, and it is in these years that he truly becomes a poet. After dropping out of university, he began using the name ââ¬ËBob Dylanââ¬â¢ for the first time, and moved to New York City in search of his idol, the folk-hero Woody Guthrie. It was his relationship with Guthrie that defined these years, and he spent a huge amount of time at the ailing manââ¬â¢s bedside, as well as growing in popularity within the Greenwich Village folk scene, performing in many small clubs around New York. It was at the age of only 21 that he released his eponymous debut album and his commercial career began. Performing Career Dylan has recorded thirty-three albums since 1962, and ââ¬â as I mentioned in the introduction ââ¬â been through several significant phases in his music and his life. Aside from typical musical development ââ¬â most significantly ââ¬Ëgoing electricââ¬â¢ in 1965 and putting his grassroots folk beginnings behind him ââ¬â his most interesting paths have been his personal ones. With a near-fatal motorcycle accident in 1966, the end of the beginning of his career was ended abruptly, and he was sent into seclusion for many years, performing rarely and releasing albums of very inconsistent quality, repudiated by many of his earlier fans. He was honored by the music industry in 1991 with a Lifetime Achievement Grammy, and at the ceremony he delivered a speech which rather epitomized his opinion of his career; stating that ââ¬Å"My daddy once said to me, he said, ââ¬ËSon, it is possible for you to become so defiled in this world that your own mother and father will abandon you. If that happens, God will believe in your ability to mend your own ways. ââ¬Ëâ⬠(Behind The Shades 2003). Discography The Freewheelinââ¬â¢ Bob Dylan (1963) In his second studio album, Dylan for the first time performs only his own songs. In the midst of his years in the Greenwich folk scene, the songs are largely performed with only vocals and guitar, and the occasional harmonica solo, and represent the most bare and traditionally folk of Dylanââ¬â¢s works. The albumââ¬â¢s opening track ââ¬ËBlowinââ¬â¢ in the Windââ¬â¢ is his most well-known early song, and the classic example of the ââ¬Ëprotest songââ¬â¢ which he was known for. Highway 61 Revisited (1965) Dylanââ¬â¢s sixth studio album, ââ¬ËHighway 61â⬠¦Ã¢â¬â¢ was the first he recorded with a full backing band, and represented a return his rock and roll roots. A departure from the often light-hearted grassroots folk songs of his earlier career, the album is emotionally intense and far more serious. Offending many of his folk fans, Dylan was booed off during his second performance of the album by the crowd Folk Festival in England, whose rage was directed symbolically at his electric guitar, seen as a particular betrayal. The albumââ¬â¢s best-known song ââ¬ËLike A Rolling Stoneââ¬â¢ was in 2004 named the ââ¬ËGreatest Song of All-Timeââ¬â¢ by Rolling Stone magazine. Desire (1976) One of his most commercially successful albums, and the most acclaimed in the on-off period of the 70s and 80s, Desire was the most folk-influenced of the era for Dylan. The album was recorded with somewhat of a bordello of travelling musicians, with whom Dylan had toured and written with for the past year or so. The albumââ¬â¢s opening track, Hurricane is one of his later protest songs, and ââ¬â of the 4 songs over seven minutes on the album ââ¬â an almost epic ballad, and his best example of classic folk storytelling. Modern Times (2006) His second album of the new millennium, Modern Times is a blues-rock orientated album, a genre not explored extensively in his earlier career. Singing with an impossibly rough voice, Dylan was in his mid-60s during the albumââ¬â¢s recording, yet the album was well received by critics, many of whom suggested it was among the best of his career. His rendition ofââ¬â¢ Someday Babyââ¬â¢, a blues ballad allegedly first written by Muddy Waters (Wikipedia), was awarded a Grammy for the best solo male rock song in the year after its released. Critical Commentary ââ¬ËLike A Rolling Stoneââ¬â¢ Highway 61 Revisited (1965) Music To the folk purists of Greenwich Village who Dylan had grown to detest, the first few seconds of Like A Rolling Stone embodied Dylanââ¬â¢s ascent into the grand musical landscapes of rock, with a single strike of the bass drum introducing the famous organ, piano and guitar melody which continues throughout the 6 minute song. Immediately fast-paced and energetic the instrumentation reflects an escape from the relative constraints of the one-man-band acoustic guitar, harmonica and voice which Dylan had brought to the mainstream in previous albums. The songs surface rhythm is fairly conventional and consistent, with a largely unadventurous drum kit and tambourine keeping time throughout for the guitar and organ, but beneath this, the jangly bar-room piano is moving through rag/blues improvisations and straying from the rhythm in the background. The organ which so anthematically opens the song, compliments Dylanââ¬â¢s vocals throughout, wailing the celebrated riff of the chorus, but it never approaches drowning out his voice in any way, again firmly our of the foreground. The melody is for the most part led by the organ, which plays for the songs entirety and works around several chords, without any significantly adventurous breaks. On top of this are several solos, by the lead guitar, which carries the vocals into the chorus, and the harmonica, which stands as a reminder of Dylanââ¬â¢s folk roots. Lyrics The song has been interpreted for decades in enormous detail, but we can see clearly that Dylan is recounting at essence two sides of a fall from grace; directed at a ââ¬Å"princess on the steepleâ⬠who to lives in a blind decadence, while warned that she is ââ¬Å"bound to fallâ⬠, but who lands up ââ¬Å"scrounging around for [her] next mealâ⬠. Many have claimed the song is directed at Dylanââ¬â¢s one time lover, actress Edie Sedgwick, whose drug addiction and early death greatly affected the singer. Each of the five stanzas follows a similar rhythmic and rhyming structure, and follows a similar content structure in beginning by referencing the subjectââ¬â¢s indulgence and ignorance, and consequentially linking it to the desolation of her current condition ââ¬â ââ¬Å"You said youââ¬â¢d never compromise/With the mystery tramp, but now you realise heââ¬â¢s not sellinââ¬â¢ any alibisâ⬠In this example the bold word indicates the shift in the whole stanza and the almost condescending manner in which Dylan delivers it, like the conclusion of a fable ââ¬â drawing a moral lesson from an unfortunate scenario. The chorus asks rhetorically and yet pleadingly, ââ¬Å"How does it feel? To be on your ownâ⬠¦with no direction homeâ⬠and seems to blame the subject for her position, but ââ¬â especially considering the last line of the quote ââ¬â Dylan could see some of himself in the character. After spending so long escaping his upbringing Dylan had been rejected by the community he ran away to join and heartbroken, and it is this aspect which is the songââ¬â¢s most poignant. For more information www. bobdylanroots. com ââ¬â This website catalogs the musical and social bases of Dylanââ¬â¢s work, and has compiled many articles and influences relating to his influences. It also contains an extensive lyrics library which I used in analyzing ââ¬ËLike A Rolling Stoneââ¬â¢ and many audio and video files of recordings and performances. http://folkmusic. about. com ââ¬â This extensive catalog of articles has a particularly good section on protest songs, and the significance of folk music in the anti-war and civil rights movements. The article entitled ââ¬ËWhoââ¬â¢s The Next Bob Dylanââ¬â¢ also provided me with some new names in folk music to pursue Citations Romanowski et al. The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll ââ¬â (Simon & Schuster, 2001) A Tribute to Bob Dylan ââ¬â Life in Hibbing. www. hibbing. org ââ¬â (Copyright 2002) Shelton. No Direction Home ââ¬â (Penguin, 1987) Heylin. Bob Dylan: Behind the Shades Revisited ââ¬â (Harper, 2003) Wikipedia ââ¬â Modern Times (album). en. wikipedia. org
The Core Values Of The Profession Education Essay
IntroductionSociety has changed on many foreparts in the last few decennaries. The rise of societal issues, like cyber-bullying, discourtesy for authorization and teenage gestations, among young person and kids have led to parents and the community desiring schools to take a tougher stance in developing the societal and moral capablenesss of the immature ( Lickona, 1991 ) . This has prompted the Ministry of Education ( MOE ) to implement alterations to the instruction system by stressing on Character and Citizenship Education ( CCE ) . The displacement from being accomplishments and cognition senders to 1s that incorporate moral considerations into the instruction pattern is expected of instructors today ( Hansen, 2001 ) . In this epoch of alteration, it has been really supercharging right from the start of the occupation for get downing instructors as they have to familiarise themselves with all the wide-ranging functions and duties of experient instructors ( Feiman-Nemser, 2001 ; L ortie, 1975 ) . With such demanding conditions, get downing instructors need to hold a clear sense of intent and uphold the nucleus values of the profession in order to win. Teachers must function as wise mans and good function theoretical accounts to their pupils. Harmonizing to Bandura ( 2002 ) , instructors are expected to modulate their behavior with regard to professional criterions. Teachers, being of import grownups in young persons ââ¬Ë lives, have an impactful influence on their pupil ââ¬Ës character growing and development ( Park, 2004 ) . As get downing instructors aspire to carry through their different individualities when they join the instruction work force, they seek to construct up good resonance with their pupils but so happen it hard to pull the line between being rigorous and friendly with them ( Zoe, 2011 ) . Get downing instructors will non merely necessitate the necessary accomplishments and cognition to pull off pupils efficaciously in the emotional and affectional spheres, but besides a strong ethical compass to professionally cultivate their pupils ââ¬Ë heads. Students will therefore be able to get the better of societa l quandary and title-holder morally responsible causes ( Gardner, Csikszentmihalyi & A ; Damon, 2001 ) . With the rapid influence of societal media, some beginning instructors are carry oning themselves unethically when they fail to separate the student-teacher boundary on internet ( Cindy, 2011 ) . The technologically-savvy beginning instructors are acquiring into more problem when they befriend their pupils utilizing societal media platforms like Facebook and Twitter ( David & A ; Patrick, 2012 ) . Such sites frequently blur the student-teacher professional lines. Get downing instructors, being new in their profession, may be used to showing their sentiments, posting inappropriate exposures or even utilizing expressed linguistic communication on such societal webs without recognizing that the populace and even their pupils they are friends with in the practical universe can see their stations. This would hold damaging effects on the immature, waxy heads that they are entrusted with. The instruction of non-examinable topic like CCE will be a desperate concern for get downing instructors who strive to do efficient usage of clip to fix their pupils for trials alternatively ( Darling-Hammond, 1997 ) . A study conducted among teacher trainees found that merely 26.5 % of them supported the thought of learning this non-examinable topic. Many of them felt the thought of learning the citizenship constituent of CCE as propaganda and disputing to integrate them into mundane instruction ( Wang, 2008 ) . Research has shown that when instructors are less enthusiastic about the capable affair, pupils ââ¬Ë intrinsic motive to larn will worsen ( Patrick, Hisley & A ; Kempler, 2000 ) . This definitely gives get downing instructors a difficult clip when they try to strike a balance between the school ââ¬Ës accent on academic accomplishments and to further character and citizenship values. With such immense functions in determining the hereafter coevals, instructors are seen as cardinal figures to maximise the potency of every pupil holistically ( Gregory & A ; Clark, 2003 ) . It is non surprising why MOE has invariably focused on instructors ââ¬Ë development by supplying them with appropriate preparation and support to authorise them with indispensable life-skills so that their pupils can besides profit ( Murray, 2002 ) . Schools besides engage in Professional Learning Communities to acquire experient instructors to portion their expertness on covering with debatable pupils with get downing instructors. However, the heavy work load get downing instructors struggle to get by in schools has made such extra enrichments to be jobs for them. Recent enterprises, like the Holistic Health Framework and Form Teacher Guidance Period which aim to develop good societal, emotional acquisition competences in pupils, will besides increase the load for get downing instructors who have to larn and rapidly accommodate to the new policies. The present coevals of pupils is more facile and educated as their attitudes and worldviews have been shaped by the economic prosperity and cyberspace revolution over the old ages ( Derfel, 2011 ) . The stable economic environment has caused them to be less afraid of alteration, while the easiness of information available on the cyberspace has made them more expressive in their positions. Students may be less fearful of authorization and go rebellious. Most get downing instructors will happen it a challenge in pull offing them and will hold to gain their regard from pupils by puting good illustrations, listening and handling them every bit, irrespective of their genders, races and categories ( Whitney, 2000 ) . Appropriate and just penalties should be given out to pupils where necessary. In most instances, blue pupils, normally boys, acquire more attending by their instructors ( Brophy and Good, 1970 ) . However, get downing instructors should besides larn non to pretermit praising t he well behaved pupils for their model behavior. This ensures every pupil receives equal intervention and is able to distinguish between good and bad behavior in category. Classroom diverseness can besides present serious challenges for get downing instructors, particularly since it involves associating to groups of pupils who may hold differing point of views, backgrounds and dispositions ( Holmes Group, 1986 ) . A survey by Goddard and Foster ( 2001 ) revealed that while get downing instructors may hold baronial aspirations to efficaciously learn a diversified category of scholars, they are incognizant of the existent universe demands on their patterns. Get downing instructors are often in for a ââ¬Ëreality daze ââ¬Ë as pupils tend to joint out changing positions or experiences. Teaching pupils to be empathic, sensitive and accepting of one another ââ¬Ës sentiment is polar during CCE lesson. This allows pupils to be more engaged in national issues through active flow of advanced and enriching ideas, and do them esteem the cultural diverseness. In add-on, get downing instructors may meet pupils who come from hapless household backgrounds with out proper rearing support. They have to give more supervising to these pupils so that they will non experience ignored and go a threat to society. As parents play an progressively impactful function on the educational lives of their kids, a productive relationship with them will heighten the instructor ââ¬Ës abilities to develop good character and citizenship values in their pupils ( Fleming, 1993 ) . As Henderson and Berla ( 1997 ) wrote, when teacher-parent ties are close, pupils non merely profit in school but besides throughout life. Ironically, research shows that many get downing instructors fail to understand the demand to set up such relationships as they view parental engagement non built-in to their instruction and pupil ââ¬Ës acquisition ( Canter & A ; Canter, 1991 ) . This position among novice instructors has to be changed as parental engagement brings positive impacts on the kid ââ¬Ës holistic accomplishments ( Epstein, 1995 ) . Get downing instructors are frequently challenged when they have to cover with ill-disciplined pupils. By join forcesing with concerted parents, instructors will be able to promot e good behaviour in the pupils both in school and at place. If parents are unreasonable and demanding yet differing with the handling of their kid ââ¬Ës behaviour, it will further halter the instructor ââ¬Ës attempts in edifice good character in the pupil. It is besides important for instructors to actively seek interactions with parents and keep good relationships with them ( Howe & A ; Simmons, 1993 ) . However, many get downing instructors are missing these accomplishments to advance such bipartisan communications between parents and the school ( Shartrand, Weiss, Kreider, & A ; Lopez, 1997 ) . Communication is indispensable as it facilitates airing of critical information on pupil ââ¬Ës attitude in school to their parents. Concerned parents will mind the advice from instructors and pay more attending to their kid if needed, while casual 1s will merely make more duties for the instructors. With effectual communicating between both parties, the pupil ââ¬Ës character growing and development can so be closely monitored. In decision, get downing instructors have to lift up to the challenges when they take on the duties of developing character and citizenship values in pupils. To get the better of such troubles, they have to be adapted with new educational policy alterations through undergoing professional development developing invariably to get the necessity accomplishments to construct good character in pupils. In order to derive the regard from pupils, get downing instructors have to keep an ethical image within the profession and put good illustrations for their pupils while handling them every bit irrespective of their cultural diverseness. Looking in front, get downing instructors should besides take a leap forward and start working closely with parents and the community to raising and develop these values in the pupils. Through partnerships with assorted stakeholders, pupils will be more open to good cultural and social values, doing them better citizens for the hereafter.
Sunday, September 15, 2019
Case: Maple Leaf Shoes Ltd., Legal Challenges Essay
The Ontario Human Rights Code states that sexual harassment occurs in situations when one individual is bothering the other by saying or doing unwanted or unwelcome things of a sexual or gender-related nature. This could be characterize in terms of inappropriate touching, offensive remarks about individual, sexual suggestions, unsuitable comments about body parts, exposure to sexually offensive pictures, verbal abuse due to the gender, etc. It is also considered to be a form of illegal discrimination and is a form of sexual and psychological abuse. In terms of the case, this is a clear case of sexual harassment because Rosetta is one of the two women in the department that every morning got called by her male co-workers as risotto, meaning Italian rice with gravy, and teased with Italian greetings. In addition, occasionally they asked her what she was doing with her Italian boyfriend and whether she had a good time with him the night before. Moreover, one of the co-workers asked her whether she prefer Italian over Canadian men and occasionally they loudly bragged to each other about their experience with their girlfriends so that Rosetta can hear it, just to embarrass her. Furthermore, her male co-workers told a dirty jock and asked Rosetta if she understood or if she could tell one as well. Usually, sexual harassment is a pattern of behaviour that happens frequently over a period of time. In this case, there is a pattern of different incidents that occurred over the period of Rosettaââ¬â¢s employment, which created a poisoned effect on the places where she worked. This type of sexual comments made her feel uncomfortable, in some situations even cry, which indicated that the work environment is poisoned. Although, Rosetta tried to make the harassment stop, it is not her responsibility alone, Al also has to make sure that sexual harassment does not occur in his workplaces because sexualized environment can create atmospheres that encourage more serious and direct sexual harassment, such as sexual joking n this case. If in the future more women would have positions in this department, this can create decrease in productivity, increase in team conflict and furthermore, lead to decrease in success at meeting financial goals because of team conflict. Moreover, it can create job dissatisfaction, loss of employees from resignations, and increase absenteeism by employees. In addition, the knowledge that harassment is permitted can damage ethical standards and discipline in the organization in general. Overtime, employees will lose respect and trust in their supervisors who encourage and/or ignored the problem, which can lead to a negative image of the company and create legal actions against the organization. The ignorance of the problem can create large costs to organization through damaged morale, lawsuits and absenteeism. People who harass will have no reasons to stop unless they are challenged. Therefore, it is necessary to support and encourage Rosetta to come forward. Eva can offer suggestions how to solve the problem but only Rosetta must choose what will be the best choice for her. Moreover, Eva can encourage Rosetta to seek help from a counsellor and provide her with helpful telephone numbers; however, itââ¬â¢s up to Rosetta to make her own decisions. In terms of their conversations, Eva should know that conversations that were between Eva and Rosetta are confidential and Eva cannot just go and tell it to somebody. The only time Eva may have to tell someone about Rosettaââ¬â¢s problem without her permission is if Rosetta is in immediate physical danger, which is not the case in this situation. Yet, ignoring or minimizing the problem will not make it go away. To conclude, itââ¬â¢s up to Rosetta to make complains to appropriate authority or to pursue a legal actions against the company in this matter. Eva can only morally support and advise Rosetta but cannot do any legal actions for her. The only think that Eva can try to do is to inform a human resources department in the organization about the situation and ask for the proper investigation about it. The other option that Eva can consider is to have a consultation with the lawyer about this whole situation; however, she should not say any names. All of these options have a good chance for success, as long as all of them conducted in accordance of law. Alââ¬â¢s first responsibility in this case is to properly deal with workplace sexual harassment issues involve the appropriate distribution of the organizationââ¬â¢s policy on sexual harassment in the workplace. However, he did not take it serious when Rosetta complained to him, thus she was forced to terminate her employment. The other responsibility that Al should have carried is to show Rosetta that he, as a supervisor of the organization have responded to complain with the process of preventing sexual harassment in the workplace and are dealing with it in a timely and effective manner when it does occur. Al also felled to carry it appropriately, moreover, he blamed Rosetta to be too sensitive and that she takes herself too seriously. And based on his philosophy, such as to be able to laugh at ourselves now and the, it shows that he encourages this type of behaviour in the work place. Furthermore, Al has to take approach to sexual harassment where it involves the development of an internal system for the fair and balanced investigation of every complaint of this nature. Every complaint should be taken seriously. Employees must be aware that they are free to put forward complaints about sexual harassment in their workplace and that they will be free from retaliation and intimidation as a result. They should be encouraged to use and rely upon the companyââ¬â¢s internal complaint mechanism and resolution system. In this step, Al also felled to follow the appropriate road. His behaviour with employees encourages them to joke around, which may discourage other employees to complain due to fear of retaliation and intimidation, if Al tells employees about complain. It is absolutely critical that employer who has not yet adopted appropriate policies and attitudes towards sexual harassment in the workplace join the movement towards zero tolerance for these workplace problems. It is critical for the employer not only live up to their legalà responsibility when dealing with issues of sexual harassment, but perhaps more importantly is to show that they have done something. Accordingly, proactive steps are to create sexual harassment policies and well publicized complaint procedures set, which would create the correct tone for the elimination of sexual harassment in the workplace. As a bi-product, the same visible procedures will also help to reduce the employerââ¬â¢s potential exposure to vicarious liability for the acts of employees. Reference Ontario Womenââ¬â¢s Justice Network. 6 Jan. 2002. Metropolitan Action Committee on Violence Against Women and Children. 10 Feb. 2006 The Ontario Human Rights Commission. 11 Feb. 2007. The Ontario Human Rights Commission. 11 Feb. 2007 Ontario Womenââ¬â¢s Directorate. 1 May 2003. Government of Ontario. 9 Feb. 2006 The Canadian Human Rights Commission. 9 July 2004. Government of Canada. 9 Feb. 2006.
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