Interpersonal Communication in Relationships Research Paper

Interpersonal Communication in Relationships - Research Paper Example So far, the course has provided vast amounts of information that would assist in improving interpersonal relationships through the right application of communication theories and approaches. I would be structuring my advice in five sections: the principles and misconceptions in effective interpersonal communications; barriers to effective interpersonal interactions; the process of developing and maintaining self-concept; assessing your personal communications and improving communication competencies; and finally, developing strategies for active, critical and emphatic listening. I am sure that although this letter is lengthy, the information contained herein is validated from significant findings sources from researches on the subject by authoritative practitioners in the field. Principles and Misconceptions in Effective Interpersonal Communications Effective interpersonal communications must address issues that lead to misconceptions on communication. Remember John and Vivian how mi sunderstandings commonly results from misinterpreting the messages relayed by the sender of the communication to the recipient, or vise versa? A relevant article published in the Health Day News entitled â€Å"Close Relationships Sometimes Mask Poor Communication† (which I will likewise attach for your further reading on you available time), revealed that couples have tendencies to assume that since they have been together for a defined period in time, their close interpersonal relationship presumes that they understand all communications relayed or exchanged in all circumstances. This is a misconception. Experts reveal that one partner should not assume that the message expressed by the other is always understood (Thompson, n.d.). To address the dilemma, couples must repeat what one said to confirm it the message was correctly understood. Accordingly, the implicit rule is to double check with each other (Thompson, n.d.). The Health Day News article cited Nicholas Epley, a pr ofessor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, as explaining the rationale for the misconception, to wit: â€Å"our problem in communicating with friends and spouses is that we have an illusion of insight. Getting close to someone appears to create the illusion of understanding more than actual understanding" (Health Day News, 2011, p. 1). In this regard, to improve communication, John and Vivian, you need to pay closer attention not only on the verbal language that you exchanged, but also on nonverbal modes of communication, such as gesture, body language, tone of the voice, eye contact and even silence (Grohol, n.d.). Caution is likewise advised in the interpretation of nonverbal signals that could also be susceptible to be misinterpreted. The rule on double checking still applies. The website on Family Education provide relevant suggestions to improve communication skills by following the guidelines on steps in clear communication: to observ e undivided attention, figuring out what one really wants to say, and practicing being a good listener, among others (Family Education, n.d.). Now that issues of misconception are resolved, we now proceed to barriers to effective interpersonal interactions. Barriers to Effective Interpersonal Interactions There are diverse sources of barriers that deem to preclude the level of

Cost-volume-profit (CVP) analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Cost-volume-profit (CVP) analysis - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that CVP Analysis is even recognized as the cost-volume-profit analysis, which is an accounting technique that helps entrepreneurs in making a decision regarding their businesses. This essay discusses that the analysis helps entrepreneurs in identifying the breakeven point or the point at which their sales and expenditure will be equal to each other. This, in turn, helps a new startup in identifying the number of units it should sell in order to meet the minimum expenditure and investment it had made in the business. It will help them in identifying the time period around which the business might start making profits. Identifying the time period when the business might start making a profit is essential for a new business as a new business does not start making profits as soon as it starts functioning. Identifying the time period helps businesses remain focused and change their strategies accordingly to meet the profitability timeline. The present research has identified that the analysis even provides information regarding the number of goods and services that will be needed to produce goods and services. This can be used by new entrepreneurs in reducing their future input costs of production. This even helps the entrepreneur in identifying how certain changes in the variable or the fixed cost can reduce or increase the cost of production of various goods as well as services.

Cultural Impacts Of Tourism In Mumbai

Cultural Impacts Of Tourism In Mumbai What is culture? Lederach (1995) defines culture as the shared knowledge and schemes created by a set of people for perceiving, interpreting, expressing, and responding to the social realities around them. When we think of culture, commonly we think traditions, food, language, clothes, religion and behavior. These traits can change over time if and when a particular place adapts or incorporates the culture of another. This can either have a positive or negative effect on the culture of that place. Mumbai is located on the Salsette Island which lies at the mouth of Ulhas River off the western coast of Maharashtra India in the coastal region known as the Konkan. Mumbai is classified as a metropolis of India, under the jurisdiction of the Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation. It consists of two distinct regions, the Mumbai City District and Mumbai Suburban District. The city region is also commonly referred to as the Island City by most media publications. There are many kinds of dishes that are native to the state of Maharashtra. Many of which are available in roadside fast food. Other popular cuisines include Lebanese, Korean, Thai, Italian, Mexican and Chinese. Mumbai is one of the most liberal cities in India, embracing concepts that would be considered taboo in other parts of the country. Mumbais culture has been heavily influenced by western culture which gives many tourists familiarity. Some could argue that Mumbai has already lost a lot of its culture to cosmopolitan culture. Climate in Mumbai is warm and humid. There are four seasons the city experiences. During the months of December to February, cool weather exists from December to February and hot weather from March to May. The monsoon season lasts from June to September and is followed by the post-monsoon season, which lasts through October and November, when the weather is again hot. Monthly temperatures vary from 91 degrees in May to 67 degrees Fahrenheit in January. Annual rainfall is about 70 inches with an average of 24 occurring in July alone. Before tourism development, Mumbai (formerly Bombay) was originally a group of seven islands on the Konkan coastline, occupied by Koli fishermen. It wasnt until Sultan Muhamed Begada took over the islands, where Mumbai was colonized by the Hindus. A Portuguese traveler named Vasco da Gama was the first person to explore the route to Mumbai which led to the discovery of the islands and the attack by the Portuguese to capture the islands in 1534. The Portuguese built a parish, several forts and churches, but realized there was no value in them. In 1661, Catherine of Braganza, sister of the Portuguese King, offered these islands as a gift to Charles II of England. Having no use for the islands, Charles II leased them to the British East India Company in 1661. This was the beginning of British rule. This trading company built docks, trading posts, and forts because of its strategic location. Mumbai developed into an important trading post. Governer Gerald Aungier persuaded businessmen from all over the country to come and settle in Mumbai. Mumbai developed into a major commercial center. In the 18th century, population increased significantly and by the 19th century there was construction of buildings, monuments, railway stations, offices, banks. With the introduction of the Great Indian Peninsular Railways, the city received an improved means of transportation. After Indias independence from British rule in 1947, India was restructured into Bombay state. In 1960 when, Maharashtra state came to existence, Bombay, now Mumbai became the capital. There are positive effects tourism can have on a destination. One example would be the host communities residents sharing their culture in addition to those visiting the communities. Other benefits may include the host may include community pride, tolerance and a stronger sense of ethnic identity (Velachis, 2010). The other positive effects of tourism are the cultural exchange, the resurgence of local traditions, and an enhanced image for the community. The perception of India to westerners is of an exotic destination. Then there negative images still associated with it such as poverty, poor health, sanitation, and inferior infrastructure (Jafari, 2000). Tourism in Mumbai would have a positive effect on the community as it would break the stereotypical perception of India. Mumbai is the definition of urban India. It can be said that Mumbai the New York of India, as it is the city that never sleeps with its residents leading a fast-paced life and high rise structures. The involvement of the local communities is an important factor for visitor satisfaction. The hosts for tourism are the local community and they participate directly in the tourism experience, helping to define the sense of place and atmosphere of regions (Arzeni, 2009). The support of the local community is essential in developing cultural experiences for tourists. Ever since the success of the film, Slumdog Millionaire, slum tourism has been a growing attraction in India. The Dharavi slum, located in Mumbai, is the largest slum in Asia. This Slumdog setting is what grew peoples curiosity. Slum tourism can have a positive impact by introducing the positive side of the slums and dispelling the negative. Besides the obvious economic benefits it brings, it can give tourists some insight to their lives and create awareness of the situation. Despite the poverty and its bleak appearance, the people living in these slums are hard working with a strong spirit and sense of community (Ward, 2 010). It can change the preconceived notion they may have had about these slums. It can be seen as a positive that there is a combination of Mumbai culture as well as Western culture. Many locals in Mumbai celebrate both these culture. Many festivals held in Mumbai allow tourists to have a look into the Mumbai culture because they are able to celebrate along with the locals while at the same time interacting with them. This mutual relation encourages a cross-cultural communication that can support understanding between the host and guests (Valachis, 2009). Residents alike are educated about the world outside without leaving their homes, while visitors learn considerably about a unique culture. Another positive outcome that tourism brings is to Mumbais economy. The entire country of India is dependent on tourism, as tourism is its largest service industry. Tourism in Mumbai has served as a tool for income and employment generation, lessoning poverty and sustainable human development. It contributes 6.23% to the national GDP and 8.78% of the total employment in India (Tourism Statistics, 2008). Business tourism is quickly growing and according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, an international tourism trade organization, Indian business tourism will contribute over $14.2 billion to the economy in 2011. Not only does this benefit the economy, it will allow business traveler a glimpse of Mumbais culture and give the opportunity to explore diverse activities in juxtaposition to their business agendas. The common impacts in the destination occur from the tourist activities. These impacts include the revitalization or commoditization, the commercialization of traditional cultures, the loss of cultural authenticity, the destruction of the heritage and historical sites by the swarming of tourists. It can be argued that one of the strongest signs of such impacts is the loss of native language as a result of an invasion of tourist languages (Velachis, 2009). The official language of the city of Mumbai is Marathi with only 42% of the population who are fluent. Other than Hindi being one of the major languages in Mumbai, English in prevalent. As business tourism in India increases, English is widely spoken in commercial communication and the professional workforce (Fulton, 2009). With the major languages of Hindi and English, Bombay Hindi was developed, a pidgin that is widely spoken in Mumbai incorporating Marathi, Hindi and English. The changes in language, has been associated in addition to changes in attitudes and behavior. Other harmful impacts tourism can create are to its attractions. The central aspect as to why people travel. The Girgaum Chowpatty is one of the most famous public beaches and one of the oldest beaches in Mumbai. With the many hotels nearby, Chowpatty draws a great number of tourists. Residents of Babulnath which faces Chowpatty, fear that the heritage, sanctity and aesthetics of the area will be flawed (Thanawala, 2006). Another attraction that is in danger is the Elephanta Caves, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Elephantas close proximity to Mumbai and international reputation as a masterpiece has come at an unsustainable level of tourism (Mink, 2009). There has been little effort at preserving the statues and poor crowd control conducted by the authorities. As a result, the already damaged sculptures are in danger of further degradation. According to Mathieson and Wall (1982), one of the major impacts on culture destination is the conversion of the material and non-material structures of local culture, which are called revitalization or commoditization. The Mumbai Tourism Development Corporation has created numerous amounts of festivals specifically to promote tourism in the city. A number of cultural activities including, dance and music recitals are held during these festivities in order for tourists to be able to observe the culture of Mumbai. Tourism can turn local cultures into commodities when religious rituals, traditional ethnic rites and festivals are reduced and to match to tourist expectations. When tourists acquire a vacation as a package, they also purchase culture as a package. Despite how ancient or composite the destination culture is, it is lessoned to a few recognizable distinctiveness. Examples such as arts and crafts, dance, music, buildings and festivals or ceremonies are promoted as a commodity (Mathieson and Wall, 1982). The Elephanta Festival in Mumbai is a cultural festival created to honor and commemorate Indian dance, sculpture and art. It is a major attraction for locals as well as the neighboring city. What is suppose to a be tribute to classical performers and an initiative to popularize Indian classical dance and heritage art form found its main purpose in trying to promote tourism in the state, as it was organized by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. Another negative impact that tourism creates in the culture of a destination is that the put the desires and interest of the tourist without regard to the locals who may have had families and friends that were killed. This was another way for the city to make profit. A tragic event occurred on November 26, 2008 when the terrorist attacks destroyed monuments and injured and killed hundreds of people. This event struck a new found terror tourism. (Shatterjee, 2008). Travelers congregate to the monuments of the Taj hotel, Gateway of India, Cama hospital and Nariman house, which were under terror attacks. Visible bullet marks on walls, windows and roofs, damaged regions and reinstated structures. There has been an increase of local tourists and foreign travelers to Mumbai because of this terror tourism. There are even tour guides and agencies that will give detailed descriptions on the events and show the various places that were under the siege. Although this terror tourism brought the in a set of tourist, it cant be denied the impact it had on Indias tourism industry. Not only did the attack affect leisure travel to Mumbai, it rippled through the entire country with cancellations of hotel bookings. Business travel has also affected the business tourism as many companies have asked employees to restrict travel to India. The wake of this attack has undoubtedly impacted this destination negatively. While retaining the traditional image of cultural tourism in India, diversification of the tourism product would continue, mainly in the fields of leisure, adventure and convention, thus responding to the changing consumer needs (Menon, 1993). Mumbai blends old traditions with new and modern culture. Mumbai is known as the business and entertainment capital and known for the exciting nightlife one can experience, but not for the historic monuments. Little effort was made in preserving the few monuments they already had. If tourists were looking for the old India, it would deter tourists to visit other parts of India, which could hurt the image of Mumbai for being too commercialized. Mumbai is at the point of standardization. This means the process of fulfilling tourists desires (Arzeni, 2009). The landscape, accommodation, food and drinks, etc., must meet the tourists desire for the new and unfamiliar, they must at the same time not be too new or odd because very little tourists actu ally want to see completely new things. Aurangabad, another city in the state of Maharashtra was named the Tourism capital of Maharashtra. Like many other cities in Maharashtra, it is part of the urban sprawl that includes, Mumbai, Pune, Nashik and Nagpur. Unlike Mumbai which has few historic sites, Aurangabad has is tourist hub surrounded by many historical monuments and caves some of which are UNESCO heritage sites. This could create competition for Mumbai who is constantly finding ways to boost tourism in the city. Recently, Mumbai has introduced fort tourism (Buch, 2011). These forts will be able to attract more tourists, but have been poorly preserved and rather than being restored have been tampered with. Tourists want to be introduced to new culture. The culture of Aurangabad is still very much intact, contrast Mumbai who culture is deeply blended with western culture. The city of Mumbai has done a poor job at trying to preserve the few monuments they already have. These monuments are a part of their heritage, but they make it seem they no longer have any pride in their own culture. This could also be said about the food in Mumbai. As mentioned earlier, Mumbai offers cuisines from all over the world, with Chinese being most prevalent. According to the Travel Industry Association of America and the National Restaurant Association (2008), food is central to deciding vacation destinations for at least 25% of leisure travelers. Mumbai has not made any effort to promote their food, which is an aspect of their culture. The state of Kerala, located in southwestern India could also create competition. Tourist looking for sun, sea, and sand can find it in this state. Kerala was named by National Geographic Traveler as one of the Ten Paradises of the World. Mumbai does offer sun, sea and sand from its famous Juhu Beach and Chowpatty. Unfortunately, because of the severely polluted water, it is advised not to swim. Other than being a paradise, what makes Kerala unique is its ecotourism incentives, which it is well known for. Eco-friendly places can be a deciding factor as to why people would choose one place over another. Mumbai has become the new pollution capital with the rapid population growth and increase in number of automobiles. What may make Kerala more desirable is its unique culture, as it managed to remain organic and rich in its heritage. In many destinations, the cultural industries have been recognized as having an important relationship with tourism. As tourism gradually shifts away from its prior attraction of landscapes and natural resources, tourists are becoming more interested with the symbolic and sensory consumption of images and ideas associated with particular destinations (Arzeni, 2009). An example would be Bollywood, or the Hindi cinema. It has become a major part of Mumbai culture. Like Hollywood is associated with L.A., Bollywood is associated with Mumbai. Mumbai is the largest film producer of Hindi film. Tour companies now offer Bollywood tour packages, which offer tours around Film City and in the studios, as well as the residents of Bollywood actors. It is not a historic site, nor is it monumental, but it is one of the most popular attractions in Mumbai. People want to go to destinations that are linked with particular famous people, events, and they want to experience the sights and sounds. (Arzeni, 2009). Though not traditionally part of Indian culture and not found in other parts of India, Mumbai is known for its vibrant nightlife. A typical night out would be exploring one of the many bars and clubs the city has to offer. This is just another example of how a host community fulfilled the tourist desire of familiar facilities. The fact that tourists just want a quick glance of the local atmosphere, a brief look at local life, and no awareness or even interest creates a loss in authenticity which means adapting to the taste to the tourists needs and not taking the time to truly understand the locals and their culture. Culture has been defined in a number of ways, but to simply put it, it is the learned and shared behavior of a community of interacting human beings. When tourists arrive to a destination, they bring their culture which is then learned and shared by the host communities. Though there is no doubt that culture and tourism are related, it can strengthen the attractiveness and competitiveness of a place and the same time hurt it. Mumbai is continually finding ways to promote tourism to their city although they have already established themselves as a popular tourist destination for both leisure and business travelers. What started out as seven islands occupied by Koli fisherman, has developed into the one of the largest and richest metropolitans in the world. Tourism is one of the largest and fastest growing global tourism markets and countries that are dependent upon it will find ways to attract tourists, even if it means altering their culture to fit the needs of the tourist. We see ho w negatively tourism can affect the culture of ones community, but it also has its positive aspect. Interaction with the local community can change their perception about the place they had before, dispel any negative stereotypes and are able to learn something about another culture.

The Second World War (II) :: Essays Papers

The Second World War (II) Wars are good business. They create an immediate demand for a wide variety of materials needed by the government in order to fight the war. They create work opportunities for people that might not ordinarily be considered part of the normal work force. And, while not necessarily good for the soldiers engaged in the fighting, wars are always good for the businesses that provide the materials used in a war. The Second World War was very good for business. The Second World War completed the process of "centralizing" the American economy. The Great Depression of 1929 and America's involvement in the war completed the change from small, locally run businesses to large, centralized control. Big business, big unions, and big government dominated the American economy by the end of the war. The federal government issued thousands of contracts to make war goods. The largest beneficiaries of the government's largesse were the existing large corporations. "The big got bigger," Norton tells us, and the government "guaranteed profits in the form of cost-plus-fixed fee contracts, generous tax write-offs, and exemption from antitrust prosecution." Large universities received research contracts. Farming came to be dominated by "large-scale mechanized companies and farm co-ops" rather than family farms. The war "accelerated" this trend because "wealthy institutions were better able†¦ to pay for expensive new machinery" (Norton 524 and 525). The huge government demand for increased production meant an increased demand for workers. Businesses wanted to hire any qualified worker willing to work. Unions wanted only union workers to work in jobs that had been union jobs. This disagreement eventually led to federal involvement in settling labor disputes. By 1943, labor was dominated by the centralized control of the unions, union membership climbing from 8.5 million in 1940 to over 14.7 million by 1943 (525). Along with its involvement in labor matters, the federal government also became involved in business activities. With the creation of the National War Labor Board in 1941 to settle labor disputes, and then the creation of the War Production Board in 1942 to convert the America economy to war production, the federal government had become a third partner in the centralizing of the American economy. With this increased participation came an increase in government policy and regulation. This led to an increased demand for federal workers to carry out these policies and by 1945 the size of the federal government had grown form 1.

My Ethical Beliefs in the Light of Popular Ethical Theories

It is certainly of convenience to meditate on one’s ethical beliefs in the light of popular ethical theories such as the awesome Divine Command Theory, which grounds my ethical principles in godly thought; the simplistic Ethical Egoism Theory, which allows my (Freudian) Id-based, self-interests to dictate my behavior in all situations; and the Utilitarian Theory, which compels me to rethink in terms of the long-term good of all people in connection with my personal and/or pontential business practices.   I believe that my ethical concerns rest on a variety of ethical theories.   This belief is founded on the assumption that man’s mind and intentions are perhaps too complex to be understood by means of one ethical theory alone.This is the reason why philosophers have established an entire discipline to study the mind and intentions of man.   The ethical-philosophical area that fascinates me most, however, is one of ‘reason.’   I trust my ethical conc erns to rest on reason.   Apart from the above mentioned theories, therefore, I have observed myself trusting in the Categorical Imperative Theory of Kant at times, the Rights Theory at other times, and the Virtue Theory to boot – but, all in different situations concerned with ethical thought.   Is it possible for man to ever do away with ethics?   And, do I consciously choose which theory of ethics to apply in situations that call for my ethical principles to suddenly become a focus of attention?I believe that ethics are a component of virtually all situations of man, not just ethical issues that are manifest to all.   From sustainable food consumption to the culture of clothing – ethical theories apply in almost all human situations.   Only when the individual is deep asleep in bed, or in deep meditation perhaps, do ethical concerns comfortably vanish into thin air.   Which ethical theories do I trust at the time I wake up each day?   Although I have v aried reasons to believe in the ethical theories mentioned above, the only theory that never  leaves my mind is that of applying reason to all situations that require my ethical concerns to come in the light of my mind.Reason appears before I decide whether God would approve of a certain action of mine, or whether smoking another cigarette with my friends would truly serve my interests, etc.   No doubt, all ethical theories call for reason to be applied before the theories themselves can be applied by an individual.   The theory that I could apply most easily to all my situations, but only after applying reason, is the Divine Command Theory.   I believe that this particular theory incorporates the remaining ethical theories mentioned in this paper as well.God’s commands are often synonymous to all that should be ‘good’ in our world.   Based on an interpretation of the Bible, my own interests should be God’s interests, and the interests of my brot hers and sisters (all people) should also be my short term and long term interests.   Moreover, God’s commands automatically include the concept of ‘Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.’   I must be wishing my business associates and other, well.   I must be ‘loving my neighbor as I love myself.’The Rights Theory and the Virtue Theory must needs be incorporated as well into the Divine Command Theory, seeing that God calls for His vicegerents to protect His sheep (that is, the government should protect the rights of the people, as in the Rights Theory); and He also calls for the teaching of virtues to all people, young and old, and these virtues consist of justice, honesty, goodness, etc.   The virtues taught by the Divine Command Theory also incorporate kindness, compassion, love, and mercy – concepts that are essential to ‘being human,’ but are not touched upon by most ethical theories outside the realm of G od.The question that automatically emerges is: What are God’s commands?   Do they depend upon our whims, or are they based upon a single holy book?   The answers to these questions are  complicated in my case, given that I believe in various interpretations of divine commands that may or may not be mainstream Christian, Muslim, Buddhist or Hindu.   I have learned more from books than from family and my community, which happen to be the main sources of socialization for most people.   This sociological theory has important underpinnings in ethical beliefs, seeing that we learn ethics and principles from the sources of information that exist around us.   I also believe that we learn from a personal source of information, the God of Aristotle and Sir Thomas Aquinas, and therefore, it is important to know books of revelation to learn God’s commands and apply reason to apply the commands of God from myriad scriptures.Now, of course, there are a huge number of sc riptures that may be called forth to understand the commands of God.   Are the illustrious Ten Commandments the only commands, or should I also believe in the New Testament and the Qur’an?   Did Buddha leave any godly commands in the form of scriptures?   Such are the questions I have had to answer in my evolving understanding of God’s commands, even though there is a deep source of information that still exists and tells me what is right and wrong from the Highest Source.   Call it conscience – I believe that morality is ‘knowing right from wrong,’ in the view of everybody including myself and God.   What pleases God and also pleases society must certainly please me.What else are my beliefs in light of the Divine Command Theory, which, in my opinion, should incorporate the remainder of the ethical theories mentioned in this paper, and many more theories like so.   I believe that God is a synonym for the ‘Good’ that Plato ha d referred to.   At the same time, it is quite possible that my interpretation of the Divine Command Theory would be different from the interpretation of another soul.   After all, my understanding of God and His commands is different from the understanding of another soul.   I believe in many scriptures at  the same time; additionally, I feel confident that they come from the same Source.   I have learned about God in a separate way altogether.   I do not necessarily trust all people’s doctrines.   Moreover, I do not compel anybody else to believe in what I believe in.Does this mean that I could easily run into ethical conflicts with people? – Yes.   However, it does not bother me, provided that I understand that their ethical principles are different from mine, and based on separate ethical theories altogether.   Once again, reason comes to the rescue.   Without reason, I, too, would perhaps become as intolerant as the racists and the terrorists ( extreme racists) who cannot tolerate the differences in beliefs among people.   I know that God calls for such tolerance among the children of Adam.Therefore, when extremism (or, extreme racism) leads to bloodshed among people, and those that are responsible for the chaos throw the responsibility back on God by saying that such acts were committed ‘in the name of God’ – it is extremely sad and funny at the same time.   It is sad because the intolerant folks have not understood God’s message of love and tolerance, even if they think that they are killing in the name of God, who is Love.On the other hand, it is funny because they are doing the direct opposite of what they intend to do.   That is why it is of central importance to understand one’s ethical principles, and keep on understanding and improving upon them throughout one’s lifetime.   Furthermore, it is essential to align one’s behavior with one’s ethical principl es.   By saying one thing and doing something else, people can prove to be quite inconsistent and unreliable, if not dangerous to the extent of terrorism and other forms of psychopathy.I believe that ethics call for tolerance and good citizenship, and wherever God’s name is mentioned, as in the U.S. Constitution, there should be peace.   For the state, therefore, the Divine Command Theory mandates peace.   For business in general, and for the economy at large, the  Divine Command Theory entails distribution of wealth with a focus on income generation, economic growth, and prosperous living.   In personal life, I have found this theory to be most appropriate because it does not limit me to one theory.Nevertheless, I have one God, like the Christians and the Jews.   In addition, it is advantageous to me that I do not always have to think about myself and my own interests when the responsibility or the task at hand demands me to sacrifice my interests, at times, for the benefit of society in general.   Ultimately, I may realize that by serving society at the expense of sacrificing my own interests at times, I serve myself better.   I may become a happier person by serving society, and I may also increase in wealth.   God would be pleased with me.   What is most important, still, is the fact that I would be a peaceful person by being aligned with the interests of God, society, and myself.Naturally, in order to align my activities and behavior with the interests of God, society, and myself; I have to think before I leap.   It is of the essence for me to meditate on information that I gather from a huge variety of sources, including books, my professors, friends, parents, etc.   After absorbing the information thus gathered, I enjoy applying the Divine Command Theory to get to the depths of situations that often get me to think in terms of the other ethical theories as well.There are times when self-interests rule my ethical principles , or I think only in terms of the virtues of justice, integrity, trustworthiness, etc.   However, if I were to base my activities solely on the Id-based Ethical Egoism Theory, for example, I would perhaps indulge in misleading thinking, which would eventually be responsible for behavior on my part that is misleading unto others.   I am confident that the ethics of bribery in business rest in the appropriate or inappropriate use of the Ethical Egoism Theory.   The CEO of Enron, and many other corrupt businessmen in modern times, have equally shown extreme self-interest in their  business situations.   In my case, such extreme use of the Ethical Egoism Theory would never occur because I rest my principles on divine commands.   Honesty, in my case, is a virtue of necessity.Thus, I would only apply the Ethical Egoism Theory within the framework of the Divine Command Theory when the situation calls for nothing else except self-interest as a driving force for ethical behavior.    Also, in my case, self-interest would also translate into the good pleasure of God; the long term interests of society (as in the Utilitarian Theory); Kant’s Categorical Imperative or ‘doing unto others as I want others do unto me;’ obedience to the government in return for which I receive protection of my rights, as in the Rights Theory; and honesty, justice, etc., in light of the theory of Virtue.In the ‘Kingdom of God’ – or the businessman who applies the Divine Command Theory to rule his ethical behavior – the Rights Theory occupies a very interesting place, indeed.   The Rights Theory asks for the government to protect my rights.   In return for this favor, I show obedience to the government by following the laws in general.   The businessperson who follows the same laws of the government would not cheat the government as did the Enron CEO.   Neither would such a businessperson return the favor of the government by che ating the investors of his or her company.If a former U.S. Senator were to accept a Rolex from a constituent, the Divine Command Theory would not call this behavior unethical if the Rolex were a gift.   If the former CEO of Tyco were to use company bonuses to host a lavish party for his wife, I would consider it unethical under the Divine Command Theory, seeing that God never asked us to usurp the rights of many people in favor of a few.   Lifting verbatim a news report and presenting it as one’s own is similarly unethical.   Being messaged the answers to exam questions during an examination is  unethical to boot.As far as downloading music without paying a fee is concerned, I would not consider it unethical so long as it serves the interests of society in the long run.   I do not believe that downloading free music off the Internet serves to put the music industry down.   There are countless people around the world who still do download free music off the Interne t, because they do not enjoy the quality of that music as compared to hardy CD’s that music shops would like to sell.   Besides, they do not appreciate yet the technology behind free music and the IPod.   So, even though this ethical issue appears complicated to a huge number of people, I believe that it is simple to understand in the light of Divine Command Theory.I do not think that God would like students to suffer financial hardships because of their love of music.   Hence, it is perfectly ethical, in my opinion, to enjoy free music off the Internet on IPod’s – for those who would like to miss out on the quality of CD’s from BMG, Sony, etc.   Likewise, choosing between ethical theories is always a sacrifice.   Hence, I apply reason to believe that the Divine Command Theory must incorporate all necessary ethical theories for me to conduct myself as a good human being, businessperson, and citizen of my nation.   This theory does not confuse me at times that call for my ethical ‘instincts’ to show up.   I believe in God, and in service to humanity.Additionally, I do not discriminate between black or white, Chinese or Hindu.   At times when people are engaging in what I believe to be incorrect behaviors, I do not intervene unless my self-interests as well as the pleasure of God are at sacrifice.   At all times, however, I have kept to ‘reason’ as the force that leads me to apply the Divine Command Theory, which I believe to be most trustworthy.

Salah: Spiritual Nourishment of the Soul

Salat: Salah Is ordained on Muslims five times a day and Is essentially the spiritual nourishment of the soul of the believer as well as the divine connection between Allah and the believer. There are 5 prayers throughout the day: Fajr (predawn), Dhuhr (afternoon), Asr (post-afternoon), Maghrib (evening), Isha (night). Salat In Qur'an: 1 . Establishing Salah Develops Taqwa (Fear and Awareness of Allah) : â€Å"This Is the Book In which there is no doubt, a guidance for those who have taqwa; who believe In the unseen, and who establish Salah, and spend out of what we have provided for them† (2: 2-3) 2.Salah Is the Sign ofa Believer : â€Å"The believers, men and women, are protecting friends of one another; they enJoln good and forbid evil, and they establish Salah, and give Zakah, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will have His Mercy on them, and surely, Allah is All-Mighty, All- Wise. † (9: 71) 3. Establishing Salah Leads to Allah's Eternal Blessings : â€Å"So whatever you have been given is but (a passing) enjoyment for this worldly life, but that which Is with Allah is better and more lasting for those who believe and put their trust In their Lord. And those who avoid the great sins and lewdness, and when they are angry. hey forgive.And those who answer the Call of their Lord, and perform the Salah, and who conduct their affairs by mutual consultation, and who spend of what We have bestowed on them. † (42:36-38) 4. Those Who Pray Shall Have Nothing to Fear on the Day of Judgment : â€Å"Truly, those who believe and do righteous deeds, and perform Salah, and give Zakah, they will have their reward with their Lord. on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. † (2:277) 5. Remain in Allah's remembrance after prayer : â€Å"When have finished performing the Salah, remember Allah standing, sitting, and eclining, but when you are free from danger, perform the Salah.Surely, Salah Is en]olned on the believers at fixed times. à ¢â‚¬  (4:103) 6. Command to Pray with Congregation : â€Å"And establish Salah and give Zakah, and bow down (in worship) along with those who bow down (in worship)† (2:43) 7. Special Command Regarding Punctuality of Prayer : â€Å"Guara strlctly tne salan, especlally obedience. † (2:238) 8. Allah's Help Comes Through Salah : e Saa . Ana stand DeTore Allan w â€Å"Seek help through patience and Salah; truly it is extremely difficult except for the humble true believers. † (2:45) â€Å"Oh you who believe! Seek help through patience and Salah. Truly, Allah is with those who are patient. (2:153) 9. Special Emphasis on Friday Prayer . â€Å"Oh you who believe! When the call is made for the Salah on Friday, come to the remembrance of Allah, and leave off business. That is better for you, if you only knew! And when the Salah has ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allah, and remember Allah much so that you may be successful. † (62: 09-10) 10. Prayer Protects Against Evils : â€Å"Recite that which has been revealed to you of the Book, and perform Salah. Verily, Salah prevents from lewdness and evils. And indeed, the remembrance of Allah (by you) is greatest.And Allah knows what you do. † (29:45) Necessary WaJib Acts of Salat : 1 . Starting the prayer with the Takbir, Allah-u Akbar; 2. Reciting the Fatiha completely; 3. Reciting a Surah (chapter) of the Qur'an after the Fatiha in the first two rakats of any obligatory prayer and in all the rakats of the Odd-Numbered Prayer (Salat al-Witr) and again in all the rakats of any optional (nafllah) prayer; 4. Reciting the Fatiha before the additional Surah (chapter); 5. When prostrating, placing the forehead and the nose on the ground together; 6. Performing the two prostrations (saJdas) successively; 7.Paying attention to â€Å"tadil arkan†(i. e. to perform all pillars of the prayer with ease, not shortening them; 8. In the three-rakat or four-rakat pra yers, sitting at the completion of the second rakat; 9. Reciting at-Tahiyyatu at the end of the second rakat and when one sits before one has made salaam (salutation); 10. When performing any of the obligatory three-rakat and four-rakat prayers, the Odd- Numbered Prayer (Salat al-Witr) and the first sunnah part of the Noon Prayer (Salat az Zuhr), standing up for the third rakat as soon as one has recited the at-Tahiyyatu t the and of the second rakat; 11.When performed in congregation, the prayer leader (imam) reciting aloud the Fatiha and the additional surahs of the Qur'an in the two obligatory rakats of the Morning Prayer (Salat al-FaJr), in the first two rakats of the obligatory rakats of the Sunset Prayer (Salat al-Maghrib) and the Late Evening Prayer (Salat al'lsha), in the Friday Assembly Prayer (Salat al-Jum'a), and in both the Festival Prayers (Ela Prayers); 12 Agaln, In tne larawln Prayer ana tne oaa-NumDerea Prayer following it in the month of Ramadan, the imam's reciting aloud the Fatiha and the additional surahs; 13.In the obligatory sections of the Noon Prayer (Salat az-Zuhr) and the Late Afternoon Prayer (Salat al-Asr), the imam's reciting silently the Fatiha and the additional surahs of the Noble Qur'an; 14. While following the Imam, not reciting anything but remaining silent; 15. Reciting the Qunut Supplications in the Odd-Numbered Prayer (Salat al-Witr) 16. Performing the additional Takbirs in the Eid Prayers; 17. Giving salaam at the end of the prayer; 18. Making saJdah sahw (prostration for forgetfulness) at the end of a prayer if a mistake has been made in it; 19. Making a prostration after finishing an ayat where a aJdah is called for.Necessary Farz Acts of Salat : 1 . At-Tahrimah (the first Allahu Akbar 2. Qiyam (standing) 3. Qira'ah (recitation of Quran) ever if it be an Ayah. 4. Ruku 5. SJdah 6. The final sitting for the duration of Tashshahud Importance And Significance of Salat : Those who are steadfast in seeking the face of their L ord, and establish salat and give from the provision We have given them, secretly and openly, and stave off evil with good, it is they who will have the ultimate Abode. (Surat ar-Ra'd,22) The salat is a religious observance that believers are commanded to perform throughout the ourse of their lives, the times of which have been stipulated.