Organizational Behavior and Communication free essay sample

This paper will focus on the American Red Cross. The culture, espoused values and enacted values are all important aspects of this organization. Communication plays a very vital role in the perception and organizational culture. Perceptions within this organization might cause misalignment between espoused and enacted values. Being able to identify the role of conflict in group communication of the organization is very vital to the success of the organization. The conflict tends to improve communication within and among groups, so that the organization can be effective. American Red Cross According to http://www. firelandsredcross. org/History. htm, the American Red Cross is the largest volunteer organization in America. Since the founding of the Red Cross by Clara Barton in 1881, volunteers have been trained to help families, friends, and neighbors in the event of an emergency. It is committed to making a positive difference by improving the quality of human life, enhancing self-reliance and concern for others, and helping people avoid, prepare for, and cope with emergencies. We will write a custom essay sample on Organizational Behavior and Communication or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The American Red Cross South Arkansas chapter saves lives by responding with food, shelter, and hope when a disaster occurs. This organization saves lives. When disaster strikes, we respond with food, shelter and hope. Some of the major principles of American Red Cross Movement are: humanity, impartiality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. The shared values of this organization includes: humanitarianism, stewardship, helping others, respect, voluntary spirit, continuous learning, and integrity. Some key elements toward the success of an organization should be influenced by the: culture, communication, role of conflict in group communication, and how conflict improves communication in the organization. Communication and Culture The relationship between communication and culture is very difficult to understand. Cultures are formed through communication. Communication is the way humans are able to interact by which customs, roles, rules, rituals, laws, or other patterns are created and shared. Without communication, it would be impossible to keep and pass along cultural qualities from one place and time to another. Communication plays a vital role in the success of American Red Cross and helps to achieve the desired outcomes of this organization. Culture is created, shaped, passed, and learned through communication. Therefore, communication practices are largely created, shaped, and transmitted by culture. Communication is the only organizational process that has the power to inform, educate and bring about cooperation and ultimately the kind of individual behavior change that leads to powerful cultural change. The past, present and future of this organization, which reflect the culture, can only be preserved through various communication artifacts. If the culture needs to be changed, communication is the main tool around the change process (Reiley Roberts, 2007). Misalignment and Perception Often, misalignment of espoused and enacted values affects the perception of American Red Cross. Misalignment of values causes frustration, anger, confusion and disengagment. Organization leaders talk about teamwork, but sometimes employees experience a different reality that some team members are better than others. A limited view of goals in this organization leads to efforts being ignored, unappreciated or even belittled. Conflict in Group Communication American Red Cross is composed of individuals that have different opinions, beliefs, and values that cause conflict. Conflict occurs within this organization when the organization’s differences are communicated. Conflict in group communication helps to bring clarity, vision, and direction. Therefore, group communication helps with unity of vision, clear directives, feedback, and challenges of the organization. Improving Communication Conflict allows us to listen for and understand what is felt and said. This is necessary in order to build strong relationships among those in the American Red Cross. Conflict improves communication by the ability to recognize and respond to vital matters, find ways to compromise, and a belief that solving the problem can support the interest and needs of others (Leavitt, 2000). Overall, conflict improves communication by building strong and better relationships, overcoming challenges, and being successful with work in life. Conclusion Finally, the awareness of the American Red Cross culture is necessary for continued diverse growth. In order to attract the best of the organization, a culture of diversity and open communication is needed. Once the American Red Cross has these qualities, it can improve efficiency and have more viewpoints to learn from. To make sure the organizational culture is compatible with the strategic goals of this organization, conflict must be beneficial to the overall improvement of communication in this organization and success will be guaranteed.

Infection prevention and control of infections Essay Essays

Infection prevention and control of infections Essay Essays Infection prevention and control of infections Essay Essay Infection prevention and control of infections Essay Essay Understanding functions and duties An employee must keep a high criterion of personal hygiene and besides wellness. They should be cognizant of the company policies and processs when it comes to infection control and follow the best pattern in bar. The working environment demands to be kept clean and hygienic. Any hazards should be reported to the employer. Keep all preparation in infection control and bar up to day of the month. An employer should take a firm stand that all Torahs and ordinances in the workplace are followed. Hazard appraisals are needed so as to place and understate the impact of infection jeopardies. Company policies and processs need to be out lined and put in topographic point. The employer must supply equipment to forestall and command infection. Any relevant information about infection jeopardies and bar and control methods need to be given to the employees. Training and supervising of all facets of infection and control demands to be given. Records need to be kept associating to infection bar and control. Understanding statute law and policiesHealth and Safety at Work Act 1974 – Sets criterions to forestall infection go oning and distributing Public Health Act – Sets criterions for H2O supply. sanitation and rubbish disposal Food Safety Act 1990 – Sets criterions associating to nutrient production and ingestion Environmental Protection Act 1990 – Ensures safe direction of controlled waste Management of Health and Safety at Work Act 1999 – Risk appraisals introduced Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 – Employers must provide and employees must utilize appropriate protective apparels and equipment Food safety Regulations – The safe hygiene patterns to forestall pathogen taint during storage and handling of nutrient Coverage of. Injuries. Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences 1995 – Any infection caused by bodily fluids and extremely infective diseases are reported The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health †“ Regulates storage and usage of chemicals that pose a danger. All work topographic points need to provide employees with entree to COSHH information Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005 – About sharps and clinical waste disposal which could present an infection jeopardy Code of Practice for the Prevention and Control of Healthcare Associated Infection Regulation 12. 2010 – Concerns ways to cut down the incidence of HCAI Understanding systems and processs Food Hygiene – To forestall cross-contamination and cross-infection peculiar attending needs paying to. Personal Hygiene – Keep hands clean. wear PPE and make non work if ailing Kitchen and dining countries – Keep cookery equipment and surfaces clean Food safety patterns – thorough melt and warming of nutrient. right storage. fixing comestible natural nutrients individually to avoid taint Disposal of Waste – Waste merchandises provide a perfect environment for pathogens and distributing infection. Rubbish left puting about can besides pull vermin which can transport diseases. Disposal of waste depends on: The type of waste The hazard the waste may present to peopleThe hazard the waste may present to the environment Disposal of Sharps – Sharps whether they are scalpels. acerate leafs or razors may be contaminated with harmful pathogens such as Hepatitis B and C or HIV and can be transmitted into a individuals blood watercourse via a crisp hurt. When covering with sharps you should: Take disposal container to the sharps and non the other manner unit of ammunition Never fill the disposal box above the indicated grade Avoid go throughing points straight from manus to manus and maintain handling to a lower limit. Do non flex. interrupt or replace capsReport all incidents in line with RIDDOR Decontamination processs – there are three degrees.Clean utilizing soap to take surface soil and smell.Disinfect utilizing chemicals to kill pathogens.Sterilise to take all pathogens and the home ground they live in. Cleaning policy- all work topographic points must hold a cleansing policy which provides counsel of how to utilize equipment. modus operandis and how chemicals should be used and stored. Specific processs should be outlined to cover with spillages of blood. piss. fecal matters and puke: Spillages must be dealt with instantly An immediate hazard appraisal is needed in instance the country needs cordoning off Relevant equipment should be used to clean the spillageUse appropriate PPETry to forestall the spillage from distributingUse paper towels to absorb the spillageDispose of rightClean country with germicideOnce cleaning undertakings are done. thoroughly wash custodies Laundry processs – soiled linen can be a beginning of taint. Therefore: Wear PPE while managing soiled washTopographic point soiled wash in right bagMinimise transporting soiled wash by utilizing bag at bedsideFlush solid fecal matters down the lavatory Understanding the importance of hazard appraisal in relation to the bar and control of infections Hazard – the opportunity of something traveling incorrect: the danger that hurt. loss or harm may happen Potential hazards of infection within the work topographic pointWork environment hazards. locations and stuffs:KitchenDining countryBathroomShowerToiletCommunal equipmentReclaimable equipmentSoiled wash Work activity infection hazards:Fixing and functioning nutrientCaring for persons with infectionsSupplying personal attentionDisposing of wastePull offing soiled wash Hazard appraisalIdentify infection jeopardies – Areas where pathogens thriveWho is at hazard and why – Identify vulnerable peopleEvaluate infection hazard and manner to cut down it – can the infection be reduced or wiped out Record findings – Log and portion consequences and implement a scheme Review – Check on a regular basis and update schemes The importance of transporting out a hazard appraisal is cardinal to supplying infection free work environments and working patterns in wellness and societal attention scenes. Understanding the importance of utilizing Personal Protective Equipment in the bar and control of infection Different types and grounds of PPE are:Aprons to cover apparels or uniform ( made from plastic ) . protect from organic structure fluids Plastic or latex baseball mitts to protect the manus and nails which ism the chief manner pathogens are transmitted Paper masks to cover the oral cavity and nose which can be a beginning of pathogens Cloth or paper gowns provide screen for the whole organic structure Plastic over places are worn over normal places to forestall external pathogens being brought in Paper hair screen to forestall isolated hairs get awaying Plastic goggles which can be worn over spectacless and cover the eyes The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations set out employers duties to the work topographic point and work force and the company uses these ordinances to supply their ain policy. An employer must:Supply appropriate PPEShop and keep PPE rightProvide preparation and notices about PPECarry out hazard appraisals to make up ones mind appropriate PPEMake certain PPE is used decently An employee must:Use PPE at appropriate timesReport if stocks are low or faultyFollow instructions and go to preparation SessionssFollow and carry out hazard appraisals for appropriate PPENot cut corners and use PPE on all appropriate occasionsDispose of PPE right Prior to using baseball mitts and aprons custodies need to be washed. PPE must be put on before the process is started. PPE need altering between different attention undertakings for the same client and ever utilize new PPE for different clients. After every process is complete the PPE should be removed carefully so as custodies or apparels do non hold any contact with any polluting substances on the PPE. PPE are to be disposed of every bit clinical waste. Avoid touching the bin. a pes pedal to be used if possible. After disposal wash custodies with soap and H2O. Understanding the importance of good personal hygiene in the bar and control of infections The cardinal rules of good hygiene are: Bathing and lavishing – making this regularly prevents the spread of bacteriums and reduces body odour Hair attention – regular lavation prevents the spread of bacteriums. Long hair should be tied back and maintain checking for infestations of caput lice. Oral hygiene – It is of import to brush dentitions after repasts or smoke and sing the tooth doctor every six months will forestall the physique up of bacteriums and cut down bad breath. Clean apparels – apparels should be changed daily. Uniforms need to be made of difficult have oning stuff that can be washed at high temperature to take pathogens. Stoping bad wonts:Touch of the oral cavity. nose and ears which are paths for infection Sneezing and coughing without covering the oral cavity. non disposing of tissues right and non rinsing custodies afterwards Nail biting can give you sores and hazards distributing infection Smoking can do coughing and besides involves seting your manus to your oral cavity. Taking attention of your wellness can avoid and battle of infection. A good diet helps to maintain your encephalon and organic structure working good. Intake of fluids helps to blush out toxic wastes. Sleep helps to review and regenerate your organic structure. If ailing so you should non travel to work and this will forestall the spread of infection. The right sequence for manus lavation:Make certain sink and lights-outs cleanCheck that there is soap. paper towels or manus desiccantRemove jewelryRoll up armsRun H2O to a warm temperatureWet hands exhaustivelySoap hands exhaustivelyRub hands smartly together for at least 10 seconds paying peculiar attending to in between the fingers. the tips and the pollex Rinse hands exhaustivelyDry hands exhaustively sooner with a manus drier or paper towels which should be disposed of without touching the bin Handss should be washed:If dirty or gluey – to take soilAfter utilizing the lavatory or touching the oral cavity or nose – pathogens are in bodily fluids and necessitate to be removed Before and after contact with a client – to protect each other from pathogens Between different attention activities for the same client – some activities are cleaner than others and it will halt cross-contamination Before utilizing and taking disposable baseball mitts – baseball mitts are merely to be used for higher hazard activities After contact with organic structure fluids – so as to free any pathogens Before and after managing. cookery. helping and eating nutrient – nutrient is a good pathogen bearer. Eating is a good path to infection After cleaning undertakings – to take any taintAfter managing rubbish or laundry – to take pathogensAfter feeding and managing pets – Animals carry pathogens which can be harmful to worlds Hand rinsing merchandises – soap based where there is a lower hazard of infection and antimicrobic merchandises for usage in high hazard countries. It is besides acceptable to utilize an intoxicant based manus hang-up where running H2O is non available. Skin attention – cleaning merchandises that are soft to the tegument are best and besides the usage of hypo-allergenic disposable baseball mitts. If any allergic reactions occur. delight contact GP.

Biological basis of schizophrenia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Biological basis of schizophrenia - Essay Example This paper will discuss the biological basis of schizophrenia and what has led to that belief. Schizophrenia is a complex debilitating psychotic disorder that involves a disconnection between thought and language. It affects, thoughts, feeling, perceptions, and overall behavior. The usual onset is age 17 to 25. 90% of those that are being treated are 15-55. Onset before 10 and after 60 is rare (Porth & Matfin, 2008). Recent research and data present a complex image of a brain dysfunction with alterations in anatomic structures as well as protein synthesis and functional disturbances. Some of the manifestations include incomprehensible speech, delusions, hallucinations, and sometimes catatonic behavior. It is thought that sounds and color are more vivid and louder to these patients (Porth, et.al., 2008). There is paranoia as they believe people are watching them or out to get them. Though the studies following show some research into the neurophysiology of schizophrenic symptoms, it is still virtually unknown what the pathogenesis is. It is known from the imaging techniques being used that there are abnormalities in the construction of the brain but how do those abnormalities relate to the psychological issues. This is still unknown. It will be important to discern at what age this disease begins to manifest itself. One of the studies noted leads the researcher to believe that it may be a manifestation of development in uterus and not occur post partum. Young children are not often scanned so it is not known for sure (Porth, 2008). It is known, however, that adolescents who have a strong family history and who have been scanned do have the larger ventricles shown in a parental scan. Treatment at this time has not changed much though future study may change that. Presently the goal of treatment is still to attempt to induce remission, and improve behavior and c ognitive function. Outcomes from the illness are improved and some

Pros and Cons on Proposals of Canada Electoral Reform Essay

Pros and Cons on Proposals of Canada Electoral Reform - Essay Example iii). Arguments rejecting mixed member proportional system iv). Comparison of proposed mixed member proportional system in Canada and New Zealand v). Conclusion Pros and Cons on Proposals of Canada Electoral Reform Proposals on Canada electoral reform have sought to address concerns on political representation. In the recent past, pundits and politicians have engaged in debates, which have sought to address democratic deficit. Critics have noted voting trends that are alarming. For example, 1997 and 2000 federal elections, it emerged, that the number of citizens who did not vote exceeded the number that voted the winning party (Tanguay 5). This is among the paradigms that the proposals on electoral reforms have sought to address. While observers and Canadian politicians agree that electoral system needs an overhaul they disagree on the approaches that seek to give a solution to the problems. A growing number of Canadians believe that FPTP electoral system is inherently unfair because it fails to reflect the wishes of the voters. In addition, Canada inherited the system from the colonial master. In the system, the colonialist had instituted it in order to serve his own interest at the expense of the colonized. The proponents of electoral reform observe the following in relation to the FPTP electoral system. ... Second, the FPTP system promotes regionalization, which makes the citizens to build various perceptions about some provinces of the country. For instance, West is either Conservatives or Reform and the Ontario is a liberal bastion (Tanguay 4). The divisions that emanate from principle views of the political system should not create regionalization. It is arguable that a given region may vote the winning party or the opposition party. However, not every individual in the region voted for these two positions. In this sense, regionalization deprives the democratic gains. A voter has a choice; however, the choice should not determine the region where the voter should belong. Third argument about the FPTP is system is that it allows the governing party to dominate the political sphere for the four-year period, which creates marginalization in parliament. The citizens and the critics of this system believe that other political representatives should address their concerns in the parliament (Stephenson & Tanguay 8). On the contrary, this seems not to be the case, politicians representing the opposition interest seems to lie in the cold while the mainstream politicians address issues in the parliament. The forth argument against electoral reform is that the politicians constituting the House of Commons does not reflect on the voters choice. Ideally, citizens vote in order to send a representative who can address their concerns. However, lack of representation in the House of Common shows that the voting process wasted a large a big number of votes casted if the constitution of the House of Common does not reflect the voters’

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION IN ORGANISATIONS Assignment

ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION IN ORGANISATIONS - Assignment Example 88). Innovation introduces a change, a new combination from what is familiar. Schumpeter, a pioneer in the study of innovation and entrepreneurship, posits that the main force that brings about this structural change is the â€Å"perennial gale of creative destruction† (Schumpeter, 1942). Thinking out of the box seems to be one valuable trait of innovators and entrepreneurs. Although related, the processes of innovation and entrepreneurship are different. Innovation is sparked by a new idea. The idea can be a new technology such as a gadget that can provide more convenience to consumers, a new service like an alternative form of relaxation, a new product, or even a new administrative procedure. Such ideas are driven by needs that are seen by the innovators. Innovation requires creativity. Engle, Mah & Sadri (1997) define Creativity as the ability to develop ideas through one of three processes. One is creation or the development of something new. Another is the synthesis or combination of concepts. The third process is modification or the changing or improvement of things (Anderson, 1992). Indulging in such processes makes the entrepreneur a creative thinker who modifies or rejects previously accepted ideas to build innovations from practically anything. In organizations, innovation becomes the growth of a new idea from its initial state into its actualized form as a full-blown innovation (Roberts, 2006). Schumpeter (1939) mentions various types of innovations: the introduction of new products, new methods of production and new forms of business organization as well as the penetration of new input—and output markets. The people who drive and protect the innovative ideas are the entrepreneurs. They are responsible in designing and developing a programme of activities that push the innovative idea forward.

The Culture Of Singapore Cultural Studies Essay

The Culture Of Singapore Cultural Studies Essay Singapore is effectively a multilingual nation. Although English is the first language of Singapore, there are also a multitude of other languages spoken in the country that reflect its multiracial, multicultural and multilingual society. As of 2008, there are more than 20 languages being spoken in Singapore. The four official languages of Singapore are Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and English. English is widespread and is the language which unites the various ethnic groups. Children are taught in English at school but also learn their mother tongue to make sure they dont lose contact with their traditions. The only communication problem English-speakers are likely to have in Singapore is with older Singaporeans who did not learn English at school, though trying to understand the unique patois called Singlish which uses a clipped form of English mixed with Malay and Hokkien words can be taxing. Tamil is the main Indian language, though Malayalam and Hindi are also spoken. The majority of Singaporeans celebrate the major festivals associated with their respective religions. The variety of religions found in Singapore is a direct reflection of the variety of races living there. The Chinese are main followers of Buddhism and Shenism (deity worship), though some are Christians. Malays are Muslims and most of Singapores Indians are Hindus; there is, however, a sizeable proportion of Muslims and Sikhs amongst the Indian population. Religious tolerance is essential in Singapore. In fact, religions often cross boundaries and some even merge in unusual ways in this modern country. Younger Singaporeans tend to combine a little of the mysteries of the older generation with the realistic world that they know of today. Religion is still an integral part of the cosmopolitan Singapore. Many of its most interesting buildings are religious, be it old temples, modern churches, or exotic mosques. An understanding of these buildings does play a part in contributing to the appreciation of their art. Taoism, Confucianism, Buddhism, and ancestral worship are combined into a versatile mix in Chinese temples. Most Buddhists are of the Mahayana school although there are some from the Theravada school. In Singapore, the Buddhist faith is linked with Taoism and the practical doctrine of Confucianism. The Malays in Singapore are Muslims. A few of the Indians are also Muslims, but even more uncommon are the Chinese Muslims. Islam has a fundamental influence in the lives of those who follow the Prophet of Allah, Muhammad. The religion involves praying five times a day, eating only halal food, fasting during Ramadan, and going to Mecca on the Haj (pilgrimage). Halal food means food that has been specially prepared as according to the religions dietary requirements. When Indian immigrants migrate to Singapore, they brought with them Hinduism. The early temples are still the central points of ceremonies and festivals, which are held throughout the year. Christian churches were actually established with the arrival of various missionaries after the coming of Sir Stamford Raffles. Together with Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism, Christianity is considered one of the four main religions today. There is quite a large number of Christians in Singapore. Minority faiths are not forgotten. There are at least two synagogues for the Jews and Sikhs. The Zoroastrians and Jains are also represented in Singapore. Food of Singapore Singapore is the food capital of Asia. Chinese, Indian, Malay, Indonesian and Western foods are all on offer, and some of the tastiest creations are those sold from the atmospheric street stalls. Nonya cooking is a local variation on Chinese and Malay food, mixing Chinese ingredients with local spices such as lemongrass and coconut cream. The popular spicy, coconut-based soup laksa is a classic Nonya dish. Singapore is a great place to discover tropical fruits. Some of the more unusual ones on offer include rambutan, mangos teen, durian, jackfruit, pomelo and star fruit. Furthermore, food and entertainment often go together like hand and glove. Many places offer both excellent food and entertainment options, thus enabling you to enjoy the best of both worlds in one location. Indeed, all these attractions have created a food paradise like no other. Food has become something that is thoroughly appreciated by every Singaporean and visitor. The cuisine of Singapore is indicative of the ethnic diversity of the culture of Singapore, as a product of centuries of cultural interaction owing to Singapores strategic location. The food is influenced by the native Malay, the predominant Chinese, Indonesian, Indian and Western traditions (particularly English) since the founding of Singapore by the British in the 19th century. Traces of cuisines such as Thai and Middle Eastern exist in local food culture as well. In Singaporean hawker stores, for example, chefs of Chinese ethnic background influenced by Indian culture might experiment with condiments and ingredients such as tamarind, turmeric and ghee, while a Tamil chef might serve a fried noodle dish. In Singapore, food is viewed as the great importance to national identity and a combination of cultural thread; Singaporean novel declares eating as a national pastime and food, a national obsession. Food is a frequent topic of conversation among Singaporeans. Religious dietary strictures do exist; Muslims do not eat pork and Hindus do not eat beef, and there is also a significant group of vegetarians. People from different communities often eat together, while being mindful of each others culture and choose food that is acceptable to all. There are also some halal Chinese restaurants catering to Muslim dietary preference. Singaporean cuisine has been organized as an attraction for tourists by the Singapore Tourism Board, as a major attraction alongside its shopping. The government organizes the Singapore Food Festival in July to celebrate Singapores cuisine. The multiculturalism of local food, the ready availability of international cuisine and styles, and their wide range in prices to fit all budgets at all times of the day and year helps create a food paradise. The dish Singapore noodles does not exist in Singapore, as it was invented by chefs who worked and lived in Hong Kong. The cuisine is similar to the cuisine of Malaysia because of the close historical and cultural between the two countries. While a number of dishes are common to both countries, their preparation different between the countries, according to local taste. Singapore is a small country with a high population, land is not many resource given up to industrial and housing purposes. Most pfood ingredients are imported, although there is a small group of local farmers who produce some leafy vegetables, fruit, poultry, and fish. Singapores geographical position connects it to major air and sea transport routes and thus allows it to import a variety of food ingredients from around the world, including costly seafood items such as sashimi from Japan. Music Singapore has an urban musical scene, and is a center for rock, punk and other genres in the region. The 1960s produced bands like The Quests, who had hits like Shanty, Dont Play That Song, Jessamine and Mr. Rainbow; as well as other pop-rock bands including The Thunderbirds, The Trailers, The Western Union Band, October Cherries and The Silver Strings. Folk music includes the ethnic Chinese, Malay and Tamil sounds. Folk music Peranakan Pop and rock music Punk and hardcore genres Heavy metal Singaporeans Etiquettes Singapore is a small island off the coast of Malaysia and Indonesia. There are many different etiquettes, some original and some different. Singapore is a unique country that also has many rules. Singaporeans do not usually get appetizers or any drink. Singaporeans have their meal set on the table along with all other dishes with food. When you have finished eating your meal when you are with someone, it would be polite in showing that you recognize their kindness by leaving some of your meal in the plate. Apart from other Asian culture, in Singapore it is not favored to tip after the meal, which tries to impress other people around. When at a social dinner it is not good to share your food with anyone. Singaporeans eat with chopsticks. They specifically use the thin end of  the chopsticks though when getting food from the big dish that is available to everyone they use the thick side of the chopsticks. You should not tell a person any jokes until you know them very well because the jokes might be misunderstood. Do not bring up any ideas or start a conversation about subjects like religion or politics. No affections (kissing, hugging) between couples or anyone should be demonstrated in public areas. You should be calm and not show anger in the public areas. Singaporeans believe the head is sacred so it should not be touched, whether it is a child or an adult. To get someone to notice you and get his/her attention you should raise your hand. Singaporean stands and talks to someone their hands should not be placed on their hips because it demonstrates the feeling of anger. You should not blow your nose and/or clear you throat in a public areas. It is considered polite and appropriate to cover your mouth with your hand as you yawn. Gift Giving: 1.  People think the respectful thing to do is to refuse a gift a few times before accepting it to show that he/she is not greedy. After a couple of attempts of insisting that they take the gift you should tell them how thankful you are that they did so. 2.  To not seem rude or impatient, the person who is receiving the gift should wait until the giver of the gift has left. Then you may open the gift. 3.  Some recommended gifts are chocolates, a memento from your country, a gift with your company logo and maybe even a brand gift. No gifts should be too pricey. 4.  Singapore is very against bribery. This makes it not a possibility for anyone of employment with the government to take a gift. 5.  As you give a small individual gift everyone should be acknowledged and treated to one. 6.  Gifts that are supposed to surprise the person getting the gift are not a good idea to give. It would cause an awkward reaction. 7.  There should be a reason and an explanation to giving a gift to someone. Business: 1.  When asked a question you should not answer too rapidly for the reason that you might miss the correct answer. The correct thing to do is to refrain from answering for at least 15 seconds. 2.  In business Singaporeans are not that assertive and sometimes when they yes to something they might be feeling differently than how they answered. In other words yes doesnt always mean, yes. 3.  Singaporeans are tough on things like money, or business due dates. 4.  When given a compliment it is usual to humbly disagree or deny it. 5.  In business Singaporeans just go straight down to the main concept of the meeting. They will make numerous decisions very quickly. 6.  When appointed to be at a business meeting a Singaporean should call ahead of time if they are to be late. Being late without notice is rude and disrespectful. 7.  Singaporeans expect people to deliver information, reports etc. needed when requested. Greeting: 1.  When shaking hands you should have a nice firm grip. 2.  When at a social occasion or another event with many people, it is appropriate to shake hands with everyone there. 3.  When shaking hands with someone, it is polite to give a generous bow (Westerners can be a little taller than Singaporeans so it is nice to bow.) 4.  Giving a person you business card when first meeting is a proper thing to do. You must have the writing on the card facing the person and it should be given with two hands. 5.  As you meet you should introduce the people of higher position or status and elderly fellows. 6.  To be kind and courteous a Singaporean may not have direct eye contact with the person they are greeting, but instead look down. They do this to respect people of that are of older age or higher rank. 7.  Instead of greeting with the typical How are you or Good Morning Singaporeans will usually greet by saying Where are you going or Have you eaten. 8.  Greetings shouldnt be said using your nickname unless you are wanted to in a special case or you know the person well and have developed a friendship. Everyday Living: 1.  You shouldnt tell a person any jokes until you know them well because the jokes might be misunderstood or just favored. 2.  Dont bring up any ideas or start a conversation about subjects like religion or politics. 3.  No affections (kissing, hugging) between couples or anyone should be demonstrated in public. You should be calm and not show anger public areas. When crossing your legs it is good to put one knee over the other.Home | JapanHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page357.htmHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page357.htms Etiquette | ChinaHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page444.htmHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page444.htms Etiquette | SingaporeHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page531.htmHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page531.htms Etiquette | KoreaHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page621.htmHYPERLINK http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00723/index_files/index_files/Page621.htms Etiquette | Fun and Games | Credit | About Us Singaporeans are strong on things like money, or business meetings due dates. Demographics of Singapore 4,483,900 (July 2006 est.) Age structure Age percentage male 0-14 years 15.6% 362,329 15-64 years 76.1% 1,666,709 65 years and over 8.3% 165,823 (2006 est.) Population by residential status Residential Status Number Total Population 4,017,733 Citizens 2,973,091 Permanent Residents 290,118 Non-resident Population 754,524 (2000 est.) Population growth rate 1.42% (2006) Birth rate 9.34 births/1,000 population Death rate 4.28 deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate 9.12 migrants/1,000 population (2006 est.) Sex ratio Age at birth under 15 years 15-64 years 65 years and over total population (2006 est.) Infant mortality rate 2.29 deaths/1,000 live births (222 est.) Life expectancy at birth total population: 81 years male: 79 years female: 83 years

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight :: essays research papers

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight In part four of this tale the theme that is advanced is chivalry, honor and human weakness. As Gawain goes to meet the Green Knight we get the feeling of dread by the authors description of the weather outside. It is bitterly cold and snowing. The wind is whipping around Gawain as he travels (115). The extreme weather reminds us that Gawain is going to face something just as ominous. As Gawain dresses for his meeting he binds his love token ( the green girdle) twice around his middle. He is somber as he prepares for his impending death. His sense of honor is what binds him to this meeting that will certainly be his death, so he thinks (117). Gawain is steadfast in his desire to fulfill his promise to meet the Green Knight. The guide pleads to Gawain that he will surely be killed if he continues on his mission and he tells Gawain to just leave and ride off in some other country rather than be killed (121). Gawain reaveals to us, yet again, his chivalry when he says that he would face his destiny rather than be a disgrace (121). When Gawain finally reaches the chapel of the Green Knight he is met with a roar. The Green Knight proceeds to play games with Gawain in an attempt to test his bravery and chivalry (127-128). The fact that Gawain did not retreat and run after several attempts were faked reveals how honorable Gawain was. It is not until the Green Knight actually takes a blow at Sir Gawain’s neck that we see that the green girdle worked its magic. Only to Gawain’s dismay is it revealed to him by the Green Knight that it was all a test set up to show if Gawain was truly an brave an honorable Knight (133). Gawain is devastated by his weakness and lack of honor and cowardice revealed by his hiding the green girdle from the master. He begins to repent and chastise himself for his failings. This reveals his human weakness that is in all of us. He is very humbled by his behavior (133).