Cultural Conversations Essay Example for Free

Cultural Conversations Essay Nonviolence has been used as an instrument of peace throughout history and it has proven to be an effective tool in instigating change in the society. Spearheaded by Mohandas Gandhi’s moving principle of nonviolent action towards the unjustly rule of the British forces in India, change is indeed possible if done out of the context of truth in love. The precept in nonviolence operates under what Gandhi termed as satyagraha or soul force which sought to compel change by way of non-cooperation and self-sacrifice for the attainment of justice. Gandhi’s worldview revolutionized the path social movements followed and morally awakened its consciousness. It didn’t take long for the whole world to take notice of Gandhi’s efforts and aspire to understand the philosophy behind nonviolence as a means for social transformation. Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the modern social reformists who adhered to the teachings of Gandhi’s nonviolent action in order eradicate racial segregation in America. Just like Gandhi, King had personal experiences of racial discrimination which had propelled him to act in defiance towards the injustices that prevailed in American society. His frustration on the black segregation system prompted him to find alternative solutions for the furtherance of black civil rights in a white-dominated America. Impressed by the impact of Gandhi’s satyagraha principle, King incorporated the concept with his strong Christian background and created an unstoppable force within the convictions that echoed the sentiments of the black people. While great minds do think alike, their ideas tend to diverge in different tangents and this holds true for Gandhi’s and King’s comprehension of nonviolent action/passive resistance. Both Gandhi and King believed that in order to free themselves from the fetters of racial prejudice, they had to resort to disclosing the social realities that undermined their civil rights in a way that did not induce a violent force, rather, a force that was directed towards love. This entailed self-sacrificial acts to incite a moral response from the oppressors such as enduring physical torture from the oppressors, submitting to the law if need be and protesting under dire circumstances. It was a feat that seemed too daunting to be carried out since it requires more from the oppressed individual (Dilks, Nonviolence: A Weapon for Peace). The precepts of non-violence engage the individual to be physically submissive but mentally and spiritually active and any individual who is willing to undergo through that must be prepared and committed to take it to the long haul. Both Gandhi and King took the principle to heart and lived it. They did not rest until everyone listened. They understood that freedom would only be granted to them if they demanded it. Gandhi had emphasized that in order to achieve outward freedom, one must be free from within and this could only be attained through self- sacrificial actions in the context of self-purification. He believes that by being a strong spiritual leader, he would not only set an example for the people of India which would garner their support, but also possess the power to change the course of their existence. King had operated on this concept of freedom but was more apt to focus on the attainment of outward freedom since he believed that it appealed more to the American society as it is a nation that revels in the intricacies of law technicalities (Dilks, Nonviolence: A Weapon for Peace). In the letter that Martin Luther King jr. had written in Birmingham jail, he had discussed the relevance on breaking the laws of man if it hindered to protect and enforce the rights of an individual. King had explained the concept of law by stating the ideas of St. Augustine on its two different types, the just law and the unjust law. According to St. Augustine, just laws were in accordance with the natural laws of man in proportion with moral codes. Unjust laws were simply corrupt laws made by man which debases humanity as a whole (Dilks, Nonviolence: A Weapon for Peace). King had expressed that laws which discriminate individuals are unjust laws since it encourages inhumane treatment to an individual. While Gandhi’s belief on the necessity of breaking laws is quite similar, in essence he observed it through simple demonstrations and the importance of spiritual well-being. It is crucial to note that cultural differences are at play here since India’s religion is much more rooted on its people than it is for most Americans, which explains why Gandhi’s approach was much more inclined to spiritual self-fulfilment. In King’s Letter in Birmingham jail, he also wrote that the pressure appended to passive resistance should rouse social tension that would render negotiations. Though Gandhi has emphasized the need for patience in executing satyagraha, King understood that waiting was not an option at this point for they were dealing with a different audience. King had realized that while self-purification should be the driving force in nonviolent actions, one should also consider the degree to which the method should be enforced so as to be heard (Dilks, Nonviolence: A Weapon for Peace). The way in which Gandhi and King had expressed their convictions should also be taken into account as it reveals the differences in their style techniques that conquered the hearts of the people. King’s execution of passive resistance seemed more forceful in nature due to his passionate orations compared to Gandhi’s spiritual mind frame and mellow tonality, still both of them had one thing in mind which was to voice out the injustices within their society. Both Gandhi and King had sought to depict the social inequalities in their society. Though this action did not go unopposed, their passive resistance to such conflict invigorated them to act in accordance with love for their oppressors. Gandhi had stated in his teachings that the intention of exposing such social injustices should not be focused on degrading the individuality of their oppressors as it were regarding the relationship between the Indians and the British, but to appeal to their sensibilities and the intrinsic understanding that as human beings, we are one, regardless of race and gender. Gandhi believed that if an individual’s motives are untainted, truths will inevitable come out and justice will prevail. King held these views to heart as well which is why he had urged his fellow Black Americans to not retaliate by violent means but by a diplomatic engagement of passive resistance (Dilks, Nonviolence: A Weapon for Peace). Gandhi and King were known to be great social reformists who popularized the use of nonviolence as a means for social change. Even though both men had maintained different focal points for the furtherance of their causes, their mission of employing nonviolent actions toward active opposing forces remained intact. The end result is a transformation in the existing relationship of the oppressed and the oppressor. Reference: Dilks, Stephen, et al. Nonviolence: A Weapon for Peace? Cultural Conversations: The Presence of the Past. Bedford/St. Martin: New York, 2001.

Effects on Light and Colour on Our Environment

Effects on Light and Colour on Our Environment Light and colour have the ability to have a profound effect on the we perceive and interactive with our environment, effecting us holistically, in mind, body, and spirit. Altering the way we experience space, changing our perception of spatial definition and proportion. Light and colour serve as mediums for communication and information. They aid orientation and influence movement; differentiate space, establish hierarchy and indicate function; conveys symbolic messages; they are an expression of the Zeitgeist and connect us to the world in which we live. Light and colour have major impacts on our psychologically influencing our emotion, feeling and creating associations, physiologically impacting on our well-being on both a visual and non visual basis. Piturity gland etc.? One would usually associate the above solely with the sense of sight but both light and colour induce synesthesia, evoking associations with senses such as taste, smell, kinesthesia, temperature and according to some even effect our perception of time. The way we comprehend and experience light and colour it more complex than a simple optical stimulation. Our perception is a result of interplay of both physiological and the psychological factors in the conscious and subconscious. We have many prepossessions and preconceptions and light and colour which can be formed through personal experience, be a result of cultural influences and/or eduction or be part of genetic make up, developed over millions of year of evolution. There are six basic interdependent factors which combine to give us are perception of light and colour, biological reactions; the collective unconscious; conscious symbolism and association; cultural and mannerisms; trends, fashions and styles; and personal relationships and factors Biological Reaction Our biological reactions occurs not just as a result of the visual pathway. Light and thus colour aslo effect us a through neural pathway or energitic pathway. Through the energietic pathway light and colour stiumli are carried directly to the brain and onto the pineal and putrity glands, which control the production of hormones. This in turn can effect the likes of, metabolism, blood pressure, stress and aggression. The Collective Unconscious the collective unconscious refers to perception which is not rationalised by our conscious thoughts or our own personal experiences. According to Jungian psycholgy the collective unconscious is the part of our psche that has nothing to do with conscious or unconscious reaction based on personal experience amessed during our life time The collective unconscious consists of architypes, primordial and latent images, impressions and associations, in our gentic make up. Predispositions devloped thorugh millions of years evolution and the development of our species and cause us to interpret the environment in same way our predecessor The authors Hall and Nordby describe it as: the collective unconscious is a reservoir of latent images, usually called primordial images by Jung. Primordial mean the first or the original therefore the primordial image refer to the earliest development of the psyche. Man inherits these images from his ancestral past, a past that includes all of human ancestors as well as his prehuman or animal ancestors. Conscious Symbolism Funadmental associations and impressions made in the conscious. There are many associations to certain colour with are universally, and are read the same no matter the culture or eduction, for example yellow with light, blue with the sun and green with nature. The symbolism of the light and colour can be particulary significant in the field of architecture due to there connects to evoking mood and feeling. Light and colour suggest warmth or coolness, alter one perception of whether a room is friendly, etc Cultural influences Although there are many colour associations which are universal, we must also consider how different culture have different associations for some colours. For example japanese culture tends to be more responsive to softer colours, prehaps this relates to a greater appreciation of materiality. Indian culture on the other hand has a greater affinity to loud, bright and vivid colouration. There are also certain colours which gain greater significance in a certain colour. An example of this is the religious importance of green in Islam. Trends Fashion and Style Our interpretation and perfernces of colour can affect by what is in vogue at a particular time. Trends in the built environment tend to change on a less regular basis than in other. Although responsing to trends in architect and interior design may not result in creating the most beneficial environmets as different enviroments have different requirements, trends can be important in producing a sense of zeigheist. Such as ? Personal Relationships and Factors Our relationship to space is highly influenced by personal and subjective factors such as personal dispostion and specific personal experience, for example one would usually associate blue with coolness but if burnt by a blue object may induce an connection to heat. Other personal factors can change perceptions of light colour include sensitivity, age, character and temperament and are physical and psychological make up. Colour psychology can be separated in to interlinked subdivisions, applied colour psychology and depth colour psychology applied colour psychology is the one that generally applies to architecture. It deals with the implementation of the predetermined psychological effects to create a spatial ambiance to produce psychical benefits thus physiological benefits, or to convey a specific imagery. More? Symbolism and imagery of light and colour. For it is through symbols that man finds his way out of his particular situation and opens himself to the general and the universal. Symbols awaken an individual experience and transmit into a spiritual act, into a metaphysical comprehension of the world- Mircea Eliade For thousands of years natural light has been used for its powerful associations, for early man light held more significance than perhaps any other time, it was the giver of life and revered to the extent of worshipping the sun. Its significance however has diminished especially since the intrusion of artificial light Light can be regarded as metaphorical in conjuring thoughts of another place or notion. It can be symbolic, representing something else often that which immaterial such as infinity, and often symbolic of that which we do not fully comprehend. Light has the quality to produce a power ephemeral state of being. For link to times season Zeitgeist? Darkness is also important in this experience not only as a contrast too dark but in its own symbolism and representations, and the states of mind it creates, the lack of light suppress the visual, heightening the other senses. Strong darkness presents the unknown leading to states of apprehension, unease and even to phobia. The interplay of light and dark can lead to the the creation of contemplative or theatrical light. Luis Barragan advocates the use of what he calls half-light architects are forgetting the human need for half-light the sort of light that imposes a tranquillity, in their living rooms as well as their bedrooms we should try to recover mental and spiritual ease and to alleviate anxiety, the salient characteristic of these agitated times, and the pleasures of thinking, working, conversing are heightened by the absence of glaring light One of the few cultures in which the design of such environments is prevalent is in Japanese traditions. Quote for in praise of shadows and example? Another way to create places of contemplation is to use diffuse or baffled light, producing a level of uniformity contemplation is nourished by the lack of distractions Metaphorical Light Metaphorical light extends the role of light beyond that of simply of revealing, it denotes light that is used to conjure a visions of a different locality, for example its can be used to as a representation of nature, blurring boundaries giving one the impression that they are not in a interior setting. The use of metaphorical lighting is vivid in the works of artist Edward Hopper. In his painting New York Movie, Hopper uses contrasts in light to differentiate between the fanstay world of the theatre and the reality in which the usher carries on with her everyday life. Symbolic light is used as a representation of the immaterial and the unembodied, beyond that which is portrayed by the metaphorical, complex notions such as life and death. An powerful example of this is the Vietnam War memorial in Washington D.C. The names of the dead are inscribed in the specular granite surface of the wall. The ever-changing reflections of light and the surrounding remind us of our place and temporal natural in this world and thus our mortality. For thousands of years light has been associated with the spiritual facets and seen as the manifestation of divinity and the ethereal. Since prehistoric man light, the sun have been connected to the scared, prehistoric worshipped the sun build monuments align to its summer solstice to honour it, as this was when its was its most powerful. Tombs were also built with reference to the sun, often align to face the sun rise on the summer solstice. The light of a new day and the rising sun gave hope of an after life the natural language of light and dark is a powerful one with which to express architectural meaning Specific colour also hold symbolic associations. Many of these are fairly obvious, however these initial associations over time have lead subsequent affiliations or can take on induce different connections. The collective findings from a number of experiments have shown that many are universal however there may be slight variations in different cultures and religions. Associations have from human experience, going all the way back to early man. As discussed above primordial images etc have been stored in the human genome past on from generation to generation and contribute to our colour perception. Eckart Heimendahl suggests that our colour perception develops from three types of symbolism: ritual symbolism, traditional symbolism and aesthetic-emotional(psychological) level symbolism, which fuse to give us our experience of colour one of the most striking features of the results concerning perference, connotation and colour-mood associatations is the consistancy from one individual to another, from group to group and cross-culturally. There has been a great number of cross-cultural studies comparing subjects in America, lebanon, Kenya, Botswana, greece to mention a few. Monkeys have been compared to Man, men to women, children to adults, layman to architects. As another author concludes, it would indicate either that our heritage is such that we learn correct responses, or that there is some innate mood reaction to different colors (Kuller 1981 p.164) The message a colour conveys and thus it psychological effect is dependent on colours hue and the environment in which it sits. Even the slightest change it a hue nuance can alter its meaning. The materiality of the colour also plays a significant role in this process, which will be discussed later. The following will give and over the imagery and messages that the prominent hues are affiliated to. Red is a warm, stimulating colour with both positive and negative associations. It positive connotations include the aforementioned warmth due to its connection to fire, as well as passion, strength, activity and love. Its more negative affiliations include rage and aggression, ferocity, although these have served a purpose throughout history. An example of this in military, where red was used to change mind sets and convey a aggression. Red also represent blood, which to some may portray an unfavourable message, can also represent life. This is perhaps linked to early man who may have concluded that blood gave life after seeing blood leave the body a slaughtered prey. Love? Red is the dominant and attention grabbing colour as its focus point is behind the retina which give the impression that it is protruding pink? orange is a largely positive colour and is generally considered to have very few negative connotations. Although less assertive than red its is still vibrant and energetic, with lighter tone being cheering. Orange also has connections to nature reminding us of autumn and sunsets. Brown is a darker tone of orange which again has strong connections to nature, prompting thoughts of the earth. As it is earthly is suggest security and stability. However certain shade of brown may be less pleasant and dreary and even dispiriting. Yellow is considered to be the happiest colour due to it luminous and radiant nature and thus it tends to raise ones spirits. Perhaps its is most powerful and spiritual affiliation with the sun, and therefore with light and life. Yellow was also the colour of mercury in, best known for being the messenger of the god, but was the god of commerce and profit, as well as the god of the traveller, thus yellow can represent spiritual enlightenment. Green focus precisely on the retina and therefore is the easiest colour on the eye. As a result green is relaxing and refreshing. One of green major associations is nature and vigorous growth. Early rituals were based around the lush green of vegetation and thus is a symbol of food and life, and as a subsequence in Christianity represents hope and immortality. Green also has significant religious value in Islam where it is regarded as a holy colour. In stark contrast certain variations of green can convey a message of mould and decay and as a result death. Depending on its position between yellow and blue green has different effect, a green closer to yellow will appear to be more stimulating where as bluish green appear cooler and more tranquil Blue like green is relaxing and retiring, but appear cooler than green although darker tones appear to feel warmer. Materialtiy also affects its relative warmth, a dark blue, thick carpet will not provoke a cold feeling. Blue induces feelings of calmness and as a result contemplation and due to its obvious connection to water blue gives expresses cleanliness. However if not used correctly blue can be cold and depressing as refered to in the phrase I have the blues. Blues symbolism has a number of cultural variations. In Rome blue was the colour of a philosopher robe and reflected wisdom. In China blue symbolises immortality and holiness to Hebrews. purple/violet white symbolises many positive things, architecture it prompts a sense of openness and freedom, a white space will always feel more expensive, however if the portion of white is to greater it gives a sense of emptiness. From a multi-discipline perspective, white conjures images of cleanliness, purity, innocence and peace. In Asia white is the colour of mourning but in a positive way, as the believe that death on this earth is the beginning of a better life. black grey Over and under stimulation In terms of of both physiological and psychological factors the balance of stimulation is important in providing the right environment. Both over-stimulation and under-stimulation can have adverse affects on our well-being and the overall impression of a space. For an environment to be most beneficial a balanced variety should be sort. Balance is the securing of unity midst variety. Both variety and unity are required to sustain interest, and these opposing forces must be balanced. Variety is necessary to attract and arouse interest; unity is essential to create a favourable impression and desires. Variety overdone is confusing and unpleasant. Unity overdone is monotonous. The mark of colour arrangement is knowing where to stop between these extremes Exposure to an overly complex visually chaotic environment or extremely monotony, whether it be through colour, pattern or contrast can effect us physiologically by triggering changes in rates of breathing, blood pressure and pulse, thus lead to increased stress levels Over stimulation can induce an increase in muscle tension and is believed to increase ones susceptibility to infection which can lead to ulcers and coronary disease. Surprisingly dull under-stimulating environments can cause increases in heart rate. With no external stimulation one becomes more aware of there inner self. Subject to individuals mentally and nature if their thought, this can lead to fear, anxiety and distress. On a psychological level an under stimulating and thus sensory deficiency setting is known to lead to a lack of concentration, restlessness and irritability. Under stimulation can also lead to perception disorders. It cannot be stressed enough that the balance between unity and complexity is the first and most important rule in the design in beneficial environments However in certain situation it can be the designer objective to create space which are under stimulating. It space may be design as a spiritual and contemplative space which encourages one to look inside themselves for enlightenment To understand the extent of light and colours effect, we must consider it on its own as well as the how it reacts and relates to its environment. Our cognition of light and colour can be largely influenced by how they contrast with there surroudings. There a number of different contrast relationships which alter the way perceive and distinguish: Light-Dark Contrast In its simplest terms this is the contrast between light and shadow. But can also refer the to difference between lightness of colours, but the contrast is most prominent in the achromatic i.e. when no hue is involved. Light dark contrast can be useful for differentiating space. However too great a contrast will cause visual fatigue and strain. Chromatic-Achromatic contrast. Combining the chromatic with the achromatic will alter the perceived intensity and luminosity of the chromatic colour. White and grey nuances weaken a colours luminosity and therefore can be used to neutralise. On the other hand black increase a colours luminosity. Complementary Contrast Complementary contrast occurs between two colour which are as different as possible, location directly opposite on a colour wheel. Each complementary contrast has its own unique feature. For example a contrast between orange and blue gives the greatest warm-cool definition and a yellow-violet contrast give the most intense light-dark contrast. Effect/importance Intensity contrast Describes the contrast between colours of the different saturation. Intensity contrast is best used when a when small amount of pure colour are used as an accent amongst muted colours, which give a particular feature emphases while maintaining the over ambiance of the space. Quantity Contrast Quantity contrast is the proportional relationship between the colours in a space. The proportion of a particular colour plays major role in establishing spatial definition and impression Flicker Contrast licker is a over stimulating contrast, occurring when intense colours with similar lightness or darkness are combined is a space. This type of contrast shows that the colouration has not been considered appropriately, flicker contrasts should be avoid. There are two other physiological contrast which also need to be taken into account when assessing the impact of colour, successive contrast and simultaneous contrast. Simultaneous contrast is the phenomenon where by a colour will be perceived differently with a different foreground, background or environment. For example if a neutral grey is place on a surrounding colour background the grey will appear to have a hint of the complementary colour of the background colour. The perceive change is not reality but is a result of ones colour sensation. Simultaneous contrast does not just affect hue and saturation but also brightness. For example grey will appear lighter against a darker background Successive contrast is a phenomenon where by if one is subjected to a colour stimulus for an excessive amount of time an after image of its complementary colour will occur. For example if one stares at a red surface for a prolonged period of time then look at a white surface, the white surface will appear to be blue green. This after-image is believed to be the result of fatigue. The affect is temporary but nevertheless can be disturbing. e.g.? The physiological reality is that the eye requires any given give colour to be balanced by its complementary, and will generate it if it is not present. Complementary colours also provide psychological balance to warmth and coolness of colour. The after image is a physiological effect which indicates than use us of complementary colours the the most effective way of creating a harmonious space Synesthesia Synesthesia (Greek, syn= together + aisthesis= perception) is a neurological condition in which the stimulation of one sensory modality evokes a experience in another modality, or the crossing of two or more sense. Light and colour not only stimulate the sense of sight but arouses sensations in many other of the other senses through visual and non visual means. Perception of weight as a general rule darker and more saturated colours will appear to be heavier and more dense than lighter and less saturated colours. Warmer colours will also seem heavier than the cooler coolers if the same hue Perception of volume and distance The lighter a space is the more open it will be perceived to be thus a space will appear to have a larger volume than a dark space. Within a space lighter colours, cooler colours and small patterns will appear to recede. With darker or more saturated seeming the protrude thus making distances seem shorter. Perception of temperature it is widely believed that visually, colour can alter our perception of whether a room is warm or cool. Since the formation of the hypothesis several experiments have been observed which seem to prove what was thought . One such example is described by Johannes Itten in his book The Elements of Colour, is experiment illustrates a significant difference in the temperature at an individual felt cold in different coloured room Occupants of the blue-green felt that 59 degrees Fahrenheit was cold, where as the temperature had to fall to 52 degrees Fahrenheit in the red-orange room before the subjects felt cold evidence from a corresponding Norwegian study drew a similar conclusion, in which subjects set a thermostat four degrees lower in a red room compared to a blue room. However test also showed that the effect where only temporary and after a period of time the effects begin to diminish. Perception of Taste and Odours Certain colours can evokes associations with tastes or smells. Colours such as lavender, pale yellow and pink have pleasant associations with smell and colours such as coral, soft yellow and light green are associated with pleasant tastes. These affiliations can be useful in industrial situation to help improve unpleasant environments Perception of Sound Gestalt psychologists such as Heinz Warner, Krakov, Allen and Schwartz have produced evidence that strong odour and taste can alter our perception of colour. It is suggested that strong taste and odours make us more less sensitive to red and more to green. On a similar note through colour association can be used to offset loud environments. For example one may mentally connect highly saturated warm colour with being loud, cool and low saturated colour having the opposite effect, thus cool or low saturated colour can be used to help offset noisy environments a noisy atmosphere will be experienced subjectively as nosier or more bothersome if paint with glaring yellows or reds. Shrill and high pitched sounds may be offset by olive green Perception of Time Some researchers believe that light, colour and pattern can alter our estimation of time. One theory is that subdued, monotonous spaces cause one to overestimated time. Perhaps this is related to boredom and under-stimulation. It is a common conception that time passes more quickly when one is enjoying themselves. Light, colour and our perception of space. Space remains in oblivion without light. Lights shadows and shades, its different sources, its opacity,transparency, translucency and conditions of reflection and refraction intertwine to define or redefine space. Light subjects space to uncertainty, forming a kind of tentative bridge through fields of experience Steven Holl The way we use and perceive a space is greatly influence by light and colour along with the factors described. Above the have the ability to define boundaries and differentiate spaces. They provide orientation and consciously and unconsciously affect how we move through a building. Furthermore due to the synesthetic sensations they induce as described above, light and colour alter the perceived dimensioning of a space. Space, as we experience it in architectural settings is a result of our entire perceptual system. One sees the environment not with the eyes but with eyes-in-the-head-on-the-body-resting-on-the-ground As we have found out light and shadow can be a powerful tool with which to reveal meaning. However they also play a major role in defining our sense of space, if we manipulate light we alter our perception of architectural space. Before structure, walls, ceiling and floor, it was light which estbalished boundaries. At night a room for early man was defined by light admitted by fire, the extremity of which came when light faded into darkness.

The Life of Saint Peter :: essays papers

The Life of Saint Peter Peter Tosh was born into this world without a father or mother with the responsibility, or the time to raise young Peter. He was raised by his aunt, although Peter's personality would have you believe that he raised himself. An extremely self-reliant, self-dependent entity, Tosh fought for those who could not fight themselves. He was a voice for those who had not the means, nor the ability to speak to a worldwide audience. While those with power on the island of Jamaica saw Peter as a threat to the existing regime (A regime comprised of corrupt 'politricksters' who ally with Jamaica's small, wealthy, land owning class), the people saw Peter as a rebel hero. A champion of human rights, throughout his life Peter fought against the vampires and the duppies and all evil spirits, the spirits which Peter himself feared more than anything. Peter Tosh was a saint. Not a saint in the conventional, religious definition, but insofar as that he was put on this earth with a purpose. He was to expose the filth and corruption and expunge the wickedness of the ghosts which haunted him his entire life. Peter was a savior, sent to liberate the people of Jamaica, both physically and mentally. As for the majority of Jamaicans, life was spent scrounging for a dollar, struggling to put food on their children's table, and a roof over their head; That was if you can find some brush or metal with which to build one. It was difficult to find employment, and many of those that were employed were done so temporarily. Peter had greater visions for the Island of Jamaica. He was upset with the treatment of his people, and he did nothing to hide his feelings. It is believed by many that this is the very character trait which led to Tosh's murder. The voice of the people was eliminated by three supposed robbers who stole not one material object. At the tender age of forty three, Peter Tosh was silenced, as were the hopes of many Jamaicans. On October ninth, 1944 Winston Hubert McIntosh was born into this world. The only child of Alvera Coke, a resident of Church Lincoln, Westmoreland on the island of Jamaica. Winston's father, James McIntosh was the preacher at the local church in Savanna-la-Mar, which Alvera attended. However, Winston was just one of the many children which James McIntosh fathered and neglected to help care for.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury :: Free Essay Writer

Fahrenheit 451 Imagine a culture where books are prohibited, where the basic rights illustrated in the First Amendment hold no weight and society is merely a brainwashed, mechanical population. According to Ray Bradbury, the author of Fahrenheit 451, this depiction is actually an exaggerated forecast for the American future – and in effect is happening around us every day. Simply reading his words can excite theories and arguments pertaining not only to the banning of books but to our government structure itself. Age-old debates about Communism and equality are stirred by the trials of characters in Bradbury’s unique world. By studying the protagonist, Guy Montag, and his personal challenges we can, in a sense, evaluate our own lives to see that we don’t make similar mistakes. While the book is definitely a critique of society and of the government, readers are given many dominant themes to follow, and to find all of them requires several readings. The main plot, following Montag, illustrates the importance of making mistakes in order to grow. For example, at the very end of the book Granger (an outspoken rebel to the book-banning laws) compares mankind to a phoenix that burns itself up and then rises out of its ashes over and over again. Man's advantage is his ability to recognize when he has made an error, so that eventually he will learn not to make that mistake anymore. Remembering the faults of the past is the task Granger and his group have set for themselves. They believe that individuals are not as important as the collective mass of culture and history. The symbol of the phoenix's rebirth refers not only to the cyclical nature of history and the collective rebirth of humankind but also to Montag's own spiritual resurrection. Appropriately named, Guy is just a regular person who started out as a drone, following the dictations of his superficial leaders (his last name, Montag, is also ironic in that it is the name of a paper-manufacturing company). Eventually, however, he begins to realize that while reflecting the morals of equality in that no one was above the law, his society also takes away the power of an individual to make a difference. He starts out rash, inarticulate, self-obsessed, and too easily swayed. At times he is not even aware of why he does things, feeling that his hands are acting by themselves. These subconscious actions can be quite horrific, such as when he finds himself setting his supervisor on fire, but they also represent his deepest desires to rebel against the status quo and find a meaningful way to live.

A Separate Peace - Symbolism Essays -- essays research papers fc

In John Knowle’s A Separate Peace, symbols are used to develop and advance the themes of the novel. One theme is the lack of an awareness of the real world among the students who attend the Devon Academy. The war is a symbol of the "real world", from which the boys exclude themselves. It is as if the boys are in their own little world or bubble secluded from the outside world and everyone else. Along with their friends, Gene and Finny play games and joke about the war instead of taking it seriously and preparing for it. Finny organizes the Winter Carnival, invents the game of Blitz Ball, and encourages his friends to have a snowball fight. When Gene looks back on that day of the Winter Carnival, he says, "---it was this liberation we had torn from the gray encroachments of 1943, the escape we had concocted, this afternoon of momentary, illusory, special and separate peace" (Knowles, 832). As he watches the snowball fight, Gene thinks to himself, "There they all were now, the cream of the school, the lights and leaders of the senior class, with their high IQs and expensive shoes, as Brinker had said, pasting each other with snowballs"(843). Another of the principal themes in this novel is the theme of maturity. The two rivers that are part of the Devon School property symbolize how Gene and Finny grow up through the course of the novel. The Devon River is preferred by the students because it is above the dam and contains clean water. It is a symbol of childhood and innocence because it is safe and simple. It is preferred which shows how the boys choose to hold onto their youth instead of growing up. The Naguamsett is the disgustingly dirty river which symbolizes adulthood because of its complexity. The two rivers intermingle showing the boys’ changes from immature individuals to slightly older and wiser men. Sooner or later, Gene and Phineas, who at the beginning of the novel are extremely immature, have to face reality. Signs of their maturity appear when the boys have a serious conversation about Finny’s accident. Finny realizes that Gene did shake the tree limb purposely so that he would fall. However, he knows that this action was spontaneous, and that Gene never meant to cause him life-long grief. Finny sympathetically says to his best friend, "Something just seized you. It wasn’t anything you really felt against ... ...iendship between Gene and Phineas is amidst themes such as lack of reality, low maturity levels, and false appearances. Their relationship deteriorates and leads to death because they fail to learn these valuable life lessons. The purpose of Knowles’ novel is to exaggerate the life of two young boys to the extreme in order to reveal the unfortunate things that can occur in a relationship when these themes are not taken seriously. As stated in Magill’s Survey of American Literature, "It (A Separate Peace) can be viewed, for example, as a tale of Original Sin, with the Devon School as an Eden enclosing the great Tree of Knowledge through which humankind falls far from innocence but is redeemed by the suffering of a totally innocent one. It may also be approached as a reworking of the classic tale of the need to accept the potential evil within everyone and thus make peace with one’s self." BIBLIOGRAPHY "A Separate Peace." Magill’s Survey of American Literature, Vol. 3. New York: Marshall Cavendish Corp., 1993. Beacham’s Guide to Literature for Young Adults, Vol. 3, pages 1186- 1192. Knowles, John. A Separate Peace. Prentice-Hall Literature, Platinum, 1996 ed.

Findings, Conclusions, Recommendations and Scope for Further Research

Chapter –VI FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS AND SCOPE FOR FURTHER RESEARCH This research was broad based, involving multi dimensional study of all possible factors influencing the Personal Market in general and Small Car Market in particular. There are very important findings related to influence of socio-economic issues of Indian middle class, infrastructural issues like development of roads, government policies, price and cost of running and maintaining the car etc.Performance of Tata Motors Nano car, which is the smallest car, in the small car segment, and was positioned to meet the requirement of a spatial segment of Indian buyer was also studied extensively. 6. 1 Findings and Conclusions Major findings and conclusions drawn from the study are listed below -1. 71 percent of respondents have shown their preference towards low engine capacity cars to get higher fuel efficiency. It shows that in future only cars giving higher fuel efficiency will be preferred by Indian consumers. . 73percent of the respondents have shown their preference toward small cars as due to increased traffic and congestion on roads. As vehicle population is increasing continuously and size of city roads started appearing narrow, it can be concluded that small cars will prove sustainable in the future. 3. 74 percent of respondents have shown their preference towards small cars due to parking convenience of roads. In cities due to phenomenal increase in number of vehicles, parking is proving to be a big problem.Parking of small cars is a bit easy and therefore, in future people are likely to prefer small cars. 210 4. In recent past car manufacturers have launched a number of models of small cars with comparable features of big cars, consequently small car owners can now enjoy all these features in small cars also. In all 73 percent of respondents have expressed their happiness due to this reason endorsed the purchase of small car. 5.In India still personal disposable income of majority of respondent is not so high that they can afford to buy a big car and therefore, 71 percent of the total respondents have expressed their opinion that their disposable income permit them to buy only a small car and thus small cars are going to be sustainable in Indian car market. 6. In India due to increase in literacy rate and also desire to lead a comfortable life have induced the people to observe small family norm, which can easily be accommodated in small cars, the of choice people is, therefore, shifting towards small cars. 0 percent of total respondents have expressed the view that small car is good for them as they have small family. 7. 70 percent of the total respondents have expressed their opinion that they prefer the small cars as repair facility is available easily and next to their door for the repair of the same. 8. In past few years the number and percentage of women in employment is increasing staidly. Such women employee prefers the small cars due to variety of reasons. 76 percent of the total respondents have expressed their agreement to the fact that increased women employment has boost the sale of small cars.As this trend is going to persist, the future of small car is bright. 9. Increased affluence and easy availability of loans and finance facilities have led to many two wheeler users to buy their first car which is normally a small car. This has made the small cars sustainable in Indian car market. 78 percent of total respondents have endorsed this fact. 10. In past few years urban as well as rural affluence has increased. This has boosted the trend of urbanization. This in turn induces the people to buy 211 ars. In all 77 percent respondents are of the opinion that growing urban population has boost the market of small cars in India. 11. In past one decade a phenomenon improvement has taken place in the road network. This has induced the sale of small cars in India. 81 percent of the total respondents are of the opinion t hat improved conditions of roads even in small cities have led to increase in demand of small cars. 12. Government of India has formulated such policies which stimulate the sale of small cars. 2 percent of total respondents are of the opinion that favorable government policy has boost the sale of small cars. 13. Price of the cars as well cost of spares, parts and component also govern the choice of a car. Normally price of small cars as well cost of spares, parts and components are comparatively low and affordable. Therefore, people prefer to buy small cars. This fact was endorsed by 74 percent of the total respondents. Thus it appears that small cars are going to be sustainable in Indian market. 14. The cost of repair and maintenance is comparatively very low in case of small cars.This also remains one of the considerations in forming the decision to buy a car. 83 percent of the total respondents are of the opinion that lower cost of repair and maintenance has influenced their deci sion to buy a small car. 15. Government levies taxes on small cars by low rate and rate of insurance of small cars is also very low as compare to big cars which are higher priced, therefore large number of people opts for purchase of small cars. A majority (68%) of the respondents have shown their agreement towards this. 16.About 3/4th of the total respondents are of the opinion that small cars are still preferred choice of Indian consumers therefore, it can be concluded that small cars will be sustainable in Indian car market. 17. 77 percent of the respondents are of the opinion that constantly rising costs of inputs and fuel prices will contribute to the sustainability of small cars. 18. Small cars prove sufficient to meet the family needs of Indian middle class and therefore, small cars remain preferred choice of Indian middle class. 212 This fact was endorsed by 82 percent of the total respondents.Therefore it can be concluded safely that small cars are going to be sustainable i n Indian car market. 19. Over the years a status consciousness has developed among Indian middle class and to fulfill this need they prefer to buy small car as most of them can not afford to buy a big car. Therefore, small cars remain a preferred choice of Indian middle class. 82 percent of the total respondents have endorsed this view and therefore it can be concluded that small cars will be sustainable in Indian automobile sector. 20. Indian middle class consumer is buying a car for either as a necessity or for comfort.The financial constraint therefore does not permit him to have the luxury of expensive, out of reach big cars. 82 percent of the total respondents of this study are of the same opinion. Looking to large base of middle class population in India, it can safely be concluded that small cars are going to be sustainable in Indian car market. 21. Parking of cars at residence is proving a difficult proposition now-a-days. Indian middle class resides normally in compact hous es, parking space is in these houses is limited or non existent.In such conditions Indian middle class finds it is more comfortable with small cars. 83 percent of the total respondents acknowledged this fact and endorsed that the parking convenience at residence induces middle class to buy a small car. Thus it is concluded that small car will be sustainable in Indian car market. 22. Family and peer pressure often plays an important role in making buying decision of a vehicle . In case of Indian middle class this pressure induces them to buy small car. 68 percent of the total respondents were of the opinion that this pressure nduces the Indian middle class to buy the small cars. Therefore, small cars will remain a preferred choice of Indian middle class. 213 23. Working women in general and from middle class in particular prefer to buy a small car due to driving and parking comforts offered by such cars. Therefore, small car is a preferred choice of Indian Middle class working women. About 84 percent of total respondents have endorsed this fact. As the number of middle class women employees is on increase continuously, it can be concluded that small cars will sustain in the Indian automobile sector. 4. The focus of current middle class families is more on spending and enjoying life. Their personal disposable income has also increased substantially. The desire to lead a conferrable life is motivating them to buy a car, and with the financial constraint more then often it is small car. Therefore, popularity of small cars is increasing. 80 percent of respondents have shown their agreement that desire to lead comfortable life among middle class will contribute to the sustainability of small cars. 25. Of late Indian middle class has become status conscious.One of the simple ways to exhibit the status consciousness is to buy a car. Therefore, more and more middle class people are embarking upon the decision to buy a car. This fact is going to contribute to the sustai nability of small cars in Indian automobile sector. 83 percent of the total surveyed respondents have expressed their agreement to this. 26. Number of middle class people is on continuous increasing in Indian, since small car is a preferred choice of this segment, it can be concluded that small car will sustain in Indian market. This view has been endorsed by 81 percent of the total respondents. 7. A very small car launched by Tata Motors is not sustainable in Indian automobile sector as 82 percent of the respondents have expressed their opinion against Nano it is perceived as not safe and stable. 28. Tata Motors Nano is not preferred by Indian consumers in spite of being low price and more fuel efficient, as almost 97 percent of the respondents have 214 expressed their agreement to this. Thus price of car and fuel efficiency of it, are not only the factors taken into consideration by Indian consumers while making purchase decision for cars.Their decisions are governed by other fact ors also like safety, features, driving comfort, status, convenience, etc. 29. Nano is not even preferred by Indian consumers as suitable for â€Å"† Only for City use† car.. 91 percent of the respondents have expressed this view. 30. Nano is not a preferred choice of Indian consumers, neither as a first car nor as a second or additional car. 88 percent of respondents have disown it as their choice as a first car and 93 percent of respondents have disown it as their choice as second or additional car. 31. Tata Motors Nano car was positioned as a better alternative for two wheeler.However those who are using two wheelers for their personal and family use and can afford to buy at least a small car are also having hesitation in buying Nano. 93 percent of the respondents have that they would not like Nano to take out their family instead of scooter or a motor bike. Thus it can be concluded that Tata Motors Nano has lost it’s initial charm and hype created in Indian c ar market. 32 Out of the total surveyed respondents (1500) , 1271 respondents have acknowledged that they are using small car ,remaining of respondents said they are not using a small car.This implies that Indian car market scene is still dominated by small car. 33. 79 percent of the respondents those using small car have expressed their satisfaction with a small car. Remaining 21 percent of respondents were not satisfied by with the small car. This very high satisfaction level with the users, is clear indication of sustainability of small car in Indian market. 34. 83 percent of the total respondents have acknowledged that they would like to recommend the car currently being used by them to the prospective buyers.This again shows that most of the car users are satisfied with their 215 present car, whether big or small, and they would like to recommend the same to the prospective buyers. This study has already established the fact that the sale of small car is dominating, this respon se further support the sustainability of small car in Indian market. 35. This study also reveals that 73 percent of the respondents have expressed their opinion that small car will be the preferred choice of Indian Middle Class and will sustain in Indian car market. 6. RECOMMENDATIONDS AND SUGGESTIONS For this study the questionnaire was so designed to get a clear idea about the preferences, choices, socio- economic issues, financial constraints, influencing factor of government actions and policies, consumer profiles etc. Since the study covers interest of all stake holders of Indian automobile sector, the recommendations are grouped under the following†¢ Recommendations for the car and auto component manufactures. †¢ Recommendations for auto finance organizations. †¢ Recommendations for policy planners- †¢Recommendations for prospective car buyers. One important finding coming out of this study, which can change significantly the dynamics of Indian business, is shift in the consumer profile. Though the urbanization is taking place at a very high rate, it is the consumption of Rural India which is increasing at faster rate then Urban India. There for the recommendations for the basis of shift in consumer profile are grouped together, for the four segments of stake holders as specified above. 216 6. 2. 1 Recommendations for the car and auto component manufactures1.The fuel efficiency is one of the prime concerns of the car users and therefore it is recommended that the future car engine designee should be based on fuel efficiency and note on high horse power. 2. The availability of repair facility is having influence on buying decision, and therefore it is recommended that the car manufacturer should address this requirement before introducing any high technology based models of small cars for Indian market. 3. The study reveals that the small car is preferred by working women.Introduction of some variance of the car models having â€Å"Wo men friendly accessories† will attract the women customers. 4. The cost of the spare parts is of concern of car users. To boost the sale of their product it is suggested that the auto component manufacturers, open their dealer networks and service outlets to meet customer’s requirements directly. This is already in practice for car batteries, tyers etc. The Auto electrical segment can also use this. 5. The study reveals that there is shift in consumer profile. The consumer in he rural area is having more stakes in consumption. Currently the car designs are for the urban users. It is recommended that to take advantage of this shift some variance of car models can be designed to attract rural customers. 6. The Tata Motors Nano car is having low price and fuel efficient engine, but as the study reveals it is not accepted by consumers due to various issues like safety, durability, not suitable for long distance travel etc. It is recommended that car manufacture should take a note of this in designing the future models.They are advised to conduct the extensive survey of consumers, particularly, of Nano users, that why a small car launched in Indian car market with a big fan fare could not pick-up and lost its charm in a very short span of time, so that they can revive Nano as per expectations of public and can make it a great success in Indian car market. 217 7. Although 79 percent of the small car users have expressed their satisfaction with the small car being used by them, but 19 percent of the respondents have also expressed their dissatisfaction with the small car which can not be termed as insignificant from any yardstick.Small car manufacturers are advised to develop a suitable mechanism to identify such dissatisfaction and must take concrete steps to overcome their dissatisfaction. 6. 2. 2 i. Recommendations for auto finance organizations. One of the findings of the study is that financing of car purchase is key driver of auto industry. In the discussions it is felt that, as the disposable income is low in the beginning of the career and increases with the passes of time the initial Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) are proved heavy and burdensome on the purchasers. ii.It is therefore, recommended that auto finance companies can adopt a model of financing in which monthly payment in the initial period can be low, with a gradual increase afterwards. 6. 2. 3 Recommendations for government and policy planners(i) The constantly increasing fuel prices on the one hand support the choice of small car but on the other hand the cost conscious consumer may stop shifting from two wheelers to car. The government, therefore, can take suitable policy decision to offset the impact of increased fuel price by reduction of other taxes and duties on fuel. ii) The study reveals the concern of the parking and traffic congestion on roads. It is recommended that â€Å"Town Planers† and policy makers in the government should suitably ad dress these problems. Looking to the shortage of parking area in the city following solutions can be considered(a) Providing high-rise parking setups with lifts. 218 (b) Parking plazas out side city, with rapid transport system connectivity to business areas. (c) Making it mandatory to use roof tops for parking, like basement is used of high-rise buildings. (d)The traffic congestion on road, especially in cities, is often because of non adherence to the driving discipline by users. The traffic management system, therefore need to be made more efficient, active and accountable. (iii) To further boost automobile sector, more reforms in this sector are required, Since the Auto Policy published in 2002, is already more then a decade old a working group of experts should be asked to come out a new policy frame work, taking into consideration the current status and challenges. 6. 2. 4 Recommendations for prospective car buyers. (i)From this study one fact has come out clearly that, curren tly many models with many variances in each model, are available for a buyer. It is therefore recommended that in selecting a car the buyer should carefully evaluate the technical specifications, and match, the same with his needs. (ii) There are different schemes with different auto finance organizations. With a careful study of the schemes available at the time of car purchase, substantial saving in car financing can be obtained. (iii) Tata Motors Nano car is not favored by majority of the respondents, due to their perceptions, related to safety, stability, status symbol etc.However the manufacturer is continuously working to rectify these concerns. For the buyers having low disposable income, it is therefore recommended that at least considering the very low price of this car, the current model available at the time of purchase can be once again technically evaluated (iv) The government policies for protection of environment are also influencing the engine type and the fuel used in a car. It is therefore 219 recommended that buyer should select a model which is having futuristic technology engine. 6. 2. 5 ESPECIAL RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE BASIS OF SHIFT INCONSUMER PROFILEThis study reveals the fact that the ‘Rural Market’ of India is growing more rapidly then ‘Urban Market’. The perception of car manufacturing industry as well as policy planers with the government in India has considered car as a commodity for urban population. This sift in the consumer profile if taken into serious consideration can lead to following recommendations6. 2. 5. 1Recommendations for the car manufacturesi. The interior design of the cars for the future models can be reviewed, and new models or at least some variants of new models can have features suitable for rural buyer.To give examples the long front seat of retro models can be reintroduced, the capacity of petrol tank can be increased etc. ii. The topographic requirement of rural area can be considere d for technical specifications, of the cars e. g. wheel size, road clearance etc. to make it more acceptable in rural India. It is necessary to provide additional protection against dust to the vital elements, like fuel injection systems, carburetors, ignition system etc. iii. It is recommended that car manufacturers explore the possibility of introducing â€Å"Four Wheel Drive† system in small car as well. iv.The Personal car sales- net work currently focuses more on urban India, a shift is recommended in this approach. v. It is recommended that, after sale service net work is to be extended to rural area. Since the area to be serviced will be very large, a module having a central workshop with mobile service vehicles attached to it can also be considered. 220 vi. For the manufacturer like Maruti having major stake in small car segment, it is recommended that they can develop a system through which some selected fuel outlets can be used for providing authorized repair servic e by tanning the staff of fuel outlet. . 2. 5. 2 Recommendations for auto finance organizationsi. The current system of Equated Monthly Installments, is meeting the requirements of urban consumers which are generally fixed monthly income employees. The earning pattern of the rural consumers is different as it is seasonal. Therefore it is recommended that schemes where the option of repayment in unequaled installments, with a rider to make the complete repayment in a predefined period can be introduced. ii. The cooperative banks are generally very strong in rural India.It is recommended that captive auto finance companies can start exploring the possibilities of working with these banks. 6. 2. 5. 3Recommendations for policy plannersThe growth in auto industry segment works as a catalyst for the entire manufacturing sector. This growth is meeting the two very important key objectives of the government e. g. Improved GDP and more employment. It is therefore recommended that the policy planners in government should design the policies which can boost the sale of cars (small cars) in Indian ruler market.Some of the suggestions are as underi. It is recommended that in place of uniform road taxes throughout the state, a system of differential taxes based on the type of the area in which a personal vehicle is in use can be implemented. ii. To increase the use of cars, more priority should be also given to the roads connecting the villages to nearby cities. 221 iii. It is recommended that like agriculture equipments the soft loan schemes, for rural user to be extended for Personal Vehicles iv.Government should consider suitable tax incentives for the promotion of R & D in the automobile sector, which can be directly attributed to suitable vehicle for Rural India 6. 2. 5. 4 Recommendations for prospective car buyers. i. The service backup is very necessary for the high technology based cars. It is therefore suggested that buyer should examine this aspect carefully. ii. The road conditions may very from the cities in the rural area. The car specifications required to be looked into, from this angle. 6. 3 Directions for Future/ Further Study i. The study pertains to study of sustainability of small cars in Indian automobile sector.This study opens the scope for conducting future researches on the sustainability of big cars MPVs, SUVs, LCVs and heavy vehicles. ii. The study is confined to conduct the study of market sustainability; however, future studies may be undertaken for conducting the technical sustainability, social sustainability, environmental sustainability, and financial sustainability of small cars or any other product. iii. The study also opens the avenue of conducting such study at international level covering different dimensions of sustainability of small cars. 222

Learning-centered Organization

In today's learning-centered business environment, focus is gradually shifted from individual performance and competition to a more congenial relationship, towards being cooperative and building excellent performance through team effort and coordination. These seemingly group-oriented characteristics of the new business environment have become the thrust of MIT's Organizational Learning Center, which specializes on the creation and development of organizations to becoming â€Å"learning organizations. This program proposes a radical change using a simple approach: by shifting the members' perspectives from being individualistic to being collectivist. This proposal is simple in that a learning organization should adapt the values of coordination and cooperation-generally, collectivism-in order to induce this radical change in perspective. In Senge and Kofman's article, â€Å"Communities of Commitment,† they explicated the roots of the creation of and necessary requirements for a learning organization. In it, they also introduced the analytical model called the Galilean Model, which effectively explains and illustrates the core principles that every learning organization should be and have. This paper posits that the pursuit for a learning- centered organization, i. e. building ‘communities' through organization-based commitments, require a deviation from the norm of today's business organizations, which are primarily individualistic and competitive, to being collectivist and cooperative for the success, mainly, not of the individual, but of the organization or community. One of the important findings from Senge and Kofman's analysis was the use of the systems perspective in explaining the importance of collectivism, cooperation, and principles of the Galilean model. As explicated by the authors, the systems perspective allows organizations and its members to â€Å"†¦ move from the primacy of pieces to the primacy of the whole, from absolute truths to coherent interpretations, from self to community, from problem solving to creating. † This passage adequately described the differences between an individualist and collectivist character of organizations. In individualistic organizations, central in it is the individual, wherein the high-performing individual is determined through competition among other individuals/members. It is also centered in conducting decision-making processes through a more general manner, rather than taking into consideration a problem and solution's effects not only in the operations of the organization, but the members themselves. Since the individualist character of organization has prevailed for a long time since the introduction of modernism, this is a tradition that cannot be easily changed and replaced, especially with a contradicting character such as collectivism. This is a challenge particularly difficult among highly-individualistic societies, wherein individuals have high self-reliance and independence. Thus, the authors invoke a â€Å"truth† that must be accepted by each member of the organization, in order to recognize the importance of learning and cooperation: â€Å"[t]o learn, we need to acknowledge that there is something we don't know and to perform activities that we're not good at. But in most corporations, ignorance is a sign of weakness temporary incompetence is a character flaw. Thus, through learning, members learn to accept the reality that ignorance and temporary incompetence will always be present; it is the role of the learning organization to remedy this problem through the learning-centered management, or by adapting the systems perspective. Systems perspective is reflected in the Galilean model, which subsisted to the following principles and characterized as follows: (1) the primacy of the whole; (2) the community nature of the self; and (3) language as generative practice. In the first characteristic of the learning organization, giving primacy to the role of all members of the organization, brought out the importance of members working together to achieve a goal or objective. It is through working as a team or group that decision-making processes become more efficient and effective, since the problem is regarded by not only the perception and opinion of an individual, but other individuals as well, who may have a different way of looking at the problem and creating a solution to it. The second characteristic of the learning organization, according to the Galilean model, is that there should be a cultivation of an â€Å"us† rather than â€Å"me† attitude. That is, the individual should learn that a task, in order to be accomplished with the highest quality and time efficiency, cannot be accomplished by him/her alone; there must also be one or more individuals making sure that the task is completed with quality and efficiency. It is through this process of coordination that work is performed efficiently, and individuals learn about their capacities and limitations as members/employees of the organization. Lastly, communication and interaction among members is an imperative endeavor that must be pursued in a learning organization. ‘Keeping communication lines open' allows members to determine how tasks are accomplished, and should problems arise, they will be able to identify immediately at what point the problem occurred in the process of completing the task or activity at hand.