Democracy and Dialogue

"Participatory democracy requires that people do more than vote‹they must actively engage in cooperative activities that will help the group achieve its goals. Individuals must become knowledgeable about relevant issues, consider others¹ opinions and ideas, and articulate their own views. Participating in democratic processes, such as discussing key societal problems, helps individuals feel a part of the final outcome or decision even if they disagree with it (Polletta, 2002)." I believe that within our society this is the biggest issue regarding the difference in wanting a change and making a change. Far too often people complain about the way the world is, or why this person shouldn't be in charge, or "If I had that job, I would..." there is always a lot of talk about what someone could do, rather than them starting to do it. Most people feel that voting is enough to make a change, and if their vote didn't win, then they did all they could do. Everyone is always too busy to help, but are so quick to talk about the issues concerning them. Even if we are not the people in charge of making decisions, we can still do something toward the progressing our beliefs and wants in the right direction. The issue isn't always that the higher power of decision making doesn't want to listen, the issue is lack of participation in convincing someone that this issue is important enough to listen.

Ch 10 Business Strategies

In chapter 10 the author writes about two basic business strategies. One focuses on lowest-cost which is the commitment of a business offering a service or product at the lowest possible price. This is the type of business strategy used by companies such as Wal-Mart. With the attempt to beat out its competitors such as target, k-marts and even some grocery stores Wal-Mart is usually the leader in producing low prices time after time. The second and most popular business strategy is differentiation. Through this strategy business focus on pinpointing a particular quality or unique service offered by the business. This is a prime example of what I learned in my business marketing class about niche marketing. By focusing on one specific need of the clientele the business is able to try and be the best in that niche. Such as the example in the book with Volvo. If customers first and primary concern with a vehicle is safety then Volvo would be the best place to look because that is what they specialize in. These two strategies are what make or break a business, Wal-Mart has managed to maintain low prices while still staying in business. Where as niche marketing may sometimes be a hit or miss business concept.

Ch 9. Habits of Character

In the book, Jim Collins recognizes what makes the highest qualities of leadership. He titles his theory the habits of character. He also states that the most important habit that promotes character as well as the most essential quality in a leader is modesty. Collins states that no matter how extravagent, miraculous or extreme something is completed, modesty and humility are what makes the action complete. I agree with this theory and even more applaud the six ideas blended by Beverly Alimo-Metcalfe and John Alban-Metcalf. These six ides cover all of the genuine importance of being a strong and successful leader. From valuing individuals concerns, acting with integrity and honesty and being decisive I feel like these hit the nail on the head in the criteria someone should have to lead an organization. These qualities cannot necessarily be taught and absorbed, but rather it takes a special person to have a majority of these in them already. Often times a leader allows money and fame to get to their head without remembering the key of being humble. Sorry to all the Giants fans out there, but allow me to make Barry Bonds my example. Before leaving the Giants Bonds was seen as a leader for his team. However, he lacked all these qualities. He was one of the most conceited and cocky individuals in sports that I have ever seen play. He played for himself, only trying to accomplish a record and not concerned about the wins for the team. He never hustled in the outfield when a ball was hit to him, nor was he humble with fans.