Sociology

Part One

Part one of the book presents the essential practices of handling people. Chapter one under part one begins with the affirmation that if people want to collect honey, they should not kick the beehive. This means that attacking other individuals is worthless because it only puts them on a defensive approach. People cannot make actual changes by condemning others as this usually draws resentment. There is a need to consider that one is not contending with creatures of reason but emotion, who are stimulated by arrogance and ego. Carnegie pleads with the readers to do their best never to condemn but always seek to comprehend why human beings act in the manner in which they do. Chapter one concludes with the urge to avoid criticizing, complaining, or condemning.

Chapter two presents the great secrets of addressing people. In this chapter, Carnegie argues that there is just a single approach to making others do something happily; one has to make them willing to do it. He further elucidates that the most constructive means of making what others do successful is by appreciating them honestly and sincerely. The third chapter promotes the readers to mull over things from the perspective of others; that is, people should put the needs of others before their own. When people constantly try to compel change onto others, they nearly at all times fail. However, if one can take time to look into the challenge from others’ point of view and assist them to comprehend the best strategy of ensuring that they succeed, there is a high probability of thriving. Chapter three is summed up by the principle of arousal in others an eager desire.

Part Two

Part two explains how a person can make other people like him/her. The fundamental premise behind the first chapter is that one can attract more friends through getting interested in them than by attempting to make them get interested in him/her. Smile has been portrayed as a simple manner of ensuring a positive intuition. Even if one does not feel like smiling, he/she ought to force it to happen without making it appear to be an insincere grin, and this tends making him/her happy. Carnegie also asserts that if a person desires being an excellent conversationalist and making people take pleasure in being around him/her, he/she has to first be a keen listener and encourage other people to speak about themselves.

Part Three

This part elucidates the techniques of winning people to one’s point of view. The first approach is avoiding arguments and showing respect to the views of others. When one is wrong, he/she ought to admit it fast and emphatically. Moreover, one has to be considerate of the notions and desires of others. People should learn to act in a friendly manner at all times and be kind even when wronged or distressed. Honestly perceiving occurrences from another individual’s perspective works wonders in the prevention of conflicts.

Part Four

Part four explains the practice of being a leader and changing people devoid of offending them or eliciting resentment. The first way of doing this is to always start with praise and genuine appreciation. The second way is through calling attention to people’s flaws indirectly to ensure correcting them without being hated for them. Additionally, one ought to speak about his/her mistakes and evade vilifying others for their mistakes. Instead of issuing commands, one ought to ask questions or make polite requests. Recognizing any minimal improvement and probably giving a reward sensitizes people to do even better. Finally, one ought to encourage others, make their mistakes appear simple to correct and ensure that they are happy doing what is suggested.

References

Carnegie, D. (1998). How to Win Friends & Influence People. Pocket Books.

Introduction

Communication refers to the process of transmitting, sharing, and exchanging information using sounds, signs, and behaviors (Chandler & Munday, 2011). Communication enables people to express themselves, share ideas and thoughts, resolve differences, and express respect. Through communication, people exchange messages with the aim of achieving desired results. Communication takes different forms depending on the intended outcome. For example, it can take linguistic or non-linguistic form, and modern or traditional form (Chandler & Munday, 2011).

Communication involves three steps that include thinking, encoding, and decoding. Information starts as thoughts in the mind in form of ideas or feelings. The thoughts are then encoded and transformed into words and symbols that represent a message (Chandler & Munday, 2011). Finally, they are decoded into forms that can be understood. The three methods of communication include verbal, written, and non-verbal communication. Many people use different methods of communication concurrently. For example, gestures and body language are usually incorporated into verbal communication.

Verbal communication

This type of communication involves passage of messages through the mouth (Butterfield, 2012). Aspects of verbal communication include language, words, speech, expressions, and movements. Different methods of verbal communication possess different characteristics. However, they have common attributes. For instance, body language is an important aspect of verbal communication even though it is a form of nonverbal communication. A speaker needs to use appropriate body language in order to develop a good relationship with an audience. Verbal communication incorporates certain aspects of nonverbal communication like gestures, eye contact, smile, posture, and voice tone (Butterfield, 2012).

It is important to synchronize voice tone and body movements to ensure that a message reaches the receiver in the desired way. Aspects of nonverbal communication such as eye contact and positive gestures facilitate the development of good rapport between a sender and a receiver (Butterfield, 2012).

Certain methods of verbal communication exclude the need for using nonverbal cues such as posture and body language. Phone conversations are types of verbal communication that do not involve physical interactions. The most effective method of verbal communication is face-to-face communication (Butterfield, 2012). It is effective because it applies different expressions, movements, and facial expressions to improve comprehension of conveyed message. Common methods of verbal communication include speeches, dialogues, discussions, presentations, and phone conversations (Butterfield, 2012). Verbal communication methods such as speeches and presentations incorporate written words in order to improve comprehension of message.

Written communication

Written communication refers to passage of messages through written words. Methods of written communication include letters, text messages, magazines, journals, memorandums, notices, posters, reports, and notes (Andersen, 2007). Messages can be passed through electronic or print media. Electronic media includes tools like e-mails and text messages which are the most common methods of written communication synonymous with technological gadgets like mobile phones and computers. Technological advancement heralded the beginning of a new era in written communication. On the other hand, letters, memos, essays, reports, and notices comprise communication methods that use print media (Andersen, 2007).

For instance, memos and notices are used to convey messages in organizations and companies. Essays are common in institutions of learning while Journals are used to publish findings of research studies. In companies, managers communicate important messages to employees through memos and notices. Companies communicate to shareholders through annual reports that present financial performances ad future projections of revenue. Unlike verbal communication, written communication through print media is slow due to lack of efficient means to covey feedback. In order to give feedback, a receiver responds to a memo or notice in through a written response that could take time to reach the sender. In contrast, electronic communication is fast because it involves fast transmission of information.

Nonverbal communication

Nonverbal communication refers to passage of information through gestures, facial expressions, and other forms of non-worded messages (Stewart, 2004). Main forms of nonverbal communication include body language, gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, and posture (Stewart, 2004). In addition, it includes object communication through hairstyles, symbols, dress codes, and infographics. Nonverbal communication includes other forms like touch, voice tone, appearance, and patterns of fixation (Stewart, 2004).

In order to improve comprehension of messages, many people incorporate nonverbal communication into verbal communication. Many elements of nonverbal communication are used in written communication. For instance, handwriting style, word font, and page layout can be used to convey certain messages (Stewart, 2004). Nonverbal communication involves two mental processes namely encoding and decoding. Encoding refers to the process of generating nonverbal cues like facial expressions and gestures (Stewart, 2004). On the other hand, decoding refers to the process of interpreting nonverbal cues and transforming them into forms that are easy to comprehend (Stewart, 2004).

people learn nonverbal communication through social and emotional interactions. Different body postures and facial expressions convey different messages. Examples of postures used in nonverbal communication include spread legs, crossed arms and crossed legs. Different cultures ascribe different meanings to body postures. The use of clothing as a tool of nonverbal communication is synonymous with cultures and religions. Examples of messages conveyed through clothing include personality, sexual orientation, culture, religious affiliation, and financial status (Stewart, 2004).

For instance, white robes are synonymous with Muslims. Gestures are usually made using hands and the body. In addition, they are made through movements of eyes and the head. Facial expressions convey feelings such as anger, shame, fear, sadness, and happiness (Stewart, 2004). Three forms of gestures include adapters, symbolic gestures, and conversational gestures. Other methods of nonverbal communication include haptics, kinesics, and proxemics. Haptics refers to the use of touching in communication while kinesics is the use of posture and gestures (Stewart, 2004). Proxemics refers to the use of distance as a tool for nonverbal communication. Nonverbal communication is an efficient method of communication that is commonly used synonymously with verbal communication.

Conclusion

Communication refers to the process of conveying messages or information from a sender to a receiver. The three methods of communication include verbal, nonverbal, and written communication. Verbal communication involves passage of messages through the mouth. Nonverbal communication involves the use of non-worded messages to convey information. Forms of nonverbal communication include facial expressions, posture, gestures, proxemics, body language, haptics, clothing, and eye gaze. Written communication involves passage of messages through written words. Forms of written communication include letters, text messages, memorandums, notices, reports, and essays.

Written communication involves two methods namely print media and electronic media. Examples of print media include letters, magazine, and newspapers. On the other hand, examples of electronic media include e-mails and text messages. Communication through electronic media is fast and reliable. In order to improve comprehension of messages, many people incorporate various aspects of different communication methods in their communication. For example, verbal communication contains various aspects of verbal communication such as gestures, and facial expressions. Nonverbal communication varies depending on culture. Different cultures use varied gestures, body movements, and facial expressions to convey messages.

References

Andersen, P. (2007). Nonverbal Communication: Forms and Functions. New York: Waveland Press. Web.

Butterfield, J. (2012). Verbal Communication: Illustrated Course Guides. New York: Cengage Learning. Web.

Chandler, D., & Munday, R. (2011). A Dictionary of Media and Communication. London: Oxford University Press. Web.

Stewart, G. (2004). Written Communications. New York: Blackbirch Press Inc. Web.

Introduction

Communication is arguably the cornerstone on which any successful relationship, be it business or personal, is built. The importance of effective communication is universally acknowledged, and as Greene and Burleson (2003, p.8) demonstrate, a lot of research has been taken on the subject and numerous books written so as to help people improve their skills so as to make them more effective in their communication efforts.

There exist various factors that one should always consider when setting up effective communication strategies. The strategy adopted is especially significant since it may result in the success or failure of the communication efforts. In all communications, the audiences form an integral part and should therefore be given special consideration. In this paper, I shall discuss the various considerations that I must have in mind when presenting quarterly sales information to an audience that comprises of a group of managers, salespeople, and customers.

Communication Strategies

Communication involves the sending and receiving of messages, and it forms an integral part of any culture (Adair, 2009). In the quarterly sales presentations, it is important to understand the given audience before presenting the quarterly sales information.

This is because studying one’s audience makes it easier to communicate or pass information to them as required. With a diverse audience of customers, managers, and sales people, it would be easier to know the different characteristics of the people I will be dealing with. Some of the vital characteristics to consider include; education and literacy level, gender, age, income levels, attitudes, race, and size. These characteristics affect the type of message that needs to be developed, how it will be developed, and the type of communications channels to use that will be most relevant to each category of my audience (Adair, 2009).

The education levels greatly influence the type of message to be conveyed. It is imperative to design and develop a message and use channels that all audiences will understand. This means the message should be simple, with few or no technical terms (Greene & Burleson, 2003). Gender is also very important as it influences the message being passed on. If, for instance, an organization mainly deals with feminine products, then a presentation with the use of certain terms associated with the female gender would be effective. The same terms would, however, not be as easily understood and as effective if used with a male audience.

Age is also another characteristic that we cannot overlook. Different age levels dictate different levels of understanding and different interests. It is, therefore, important to know the age group of the salespeople, the managers, and the customers, especially in order to develop a more effective message and choose appropriate mediums of communication that appeals to most.

The income levels would also be a factor to consider. It is important to know what income levels the customers range, especially in line with our targets as an organization. This is because the income level of an individual depicts their purchasing power (Hargie, 2006). I would, therefore, be more aware of the language to use not to offend participants. For instance, when listing financial performance, it would seem contentious to state that we decided to increase the price of our products as they were too cheap to cover our expenses. The key to note is that what would be too cheap for one individual could be too expensive for another.

Being an in-person meeting, the best modes of communication to apply would be the use of oral and written communication. Written communication would come in different forms, such as a PowerPoint presentation, making it easy to reach each individual, especially if the audience size is large (Greene & Burleson, 2003). Another form of written communication would be materials such as handouts or printouts of brochures or leaflets with the key information. A book on sales performance and statistical information could also be handed out. Written communication serves advantages such as referencing; it also makes a provision to go into lengthy details as it can be as big as a book.

It would also be easier to understand, especially when coupled with graphics, charts, or tables. Oral communication, on the other hand, would come in handy when explaining in brief or when highlighting the key details. It also provides a forum for participation, as there could be a question and answer session that prompts feedback from the audience. Oral communication would cater to the uneducated audience or the blind. It is also cheaper than written communication as the costs pertaining to its set up are lower.

There are key indicators when dealing with a diverse audience, and one of them is the channels of communication. There are various channels of communication, and each is more effective with a particular audience. For instance, it would be unprofessional to overlook the fact that part of an audience could be physically challenged, either blind or deaf, and adequate preparation for the right channel means having facilities that cater to such. The message developed would also be another indicator that one must take note of. Under these are aspects such as the language to use. Not all stakeholders share the same language; thus, it would be important to factor in translators.

It would also be important to ensure that the terms used are easy to understand and not too technical, and if any, they should be simplified to laymen’s language (Hargie, 2006). The mode of eliciting feedback should also be considered as different audiences prefer different forms. For instance, some prefer electronics; others would prefer writing, while others may prefer orally dictating (Hargie, 2006).

In order to ensure the message is effective, it is important to consider the relevant channel of communication as settling for the correct channel ensures the message is relayed in the most appropriate manner. It would also be vital to develop a relevant message, and this ensures that the correct information is passed on. This entails understanding the audience, and once accomplished, it will then be easier to appropriately develop the message (Adair, 2009). Setting objectives that one hopes to achieve through the message can also help ensure the message is not only effective but well understood. This can be finally evaluated through an identified method, for instance, by reviewing feedback received from the audience.

Conclusion

This paper set out to discuss the various considerations that one must have in mind when addressing a mixed audience at a quarterly sales information presentation. The paper has underlined the audience characteristics that I would need to consider, the communication channels that would be appropriate, and the measures that I would take to ensure that my message is effective. This essay has demonstrated that when addressing a mixed audience, the message must be clear, correct, and concise, and more so, the channels of communicating must be relevant enough to accommodate the diverse audience. Additionally, satisfactory audience analysis should be conducted to avoid any discomfiture during the communication process.

References

Adair. J. (2009). Effective Communication: The Most Important Management Skill of All. Pan Macmillan.

Greene. O.J. & Burleson. R.B. (2003). Handbook of Communication and Social Interaction Skills. Routledge.

Hargie. O. (2006). The Handbook of Communication Skills. Taylor & Francis.

In the occurrence of increased and evolving outrages concerning sexual harassment and violence in the place of work, one might wonder how such problems can be eradicated. Sexual harassment in the workplace denotes the aggravation of either female or male employees by another, mainly of the opposite sex, based on sex for a favor (Chalabi, 2016). It is a serious issue, which has hampered most workplaces around the globe. It can be broken down into two forms: quid pro quo and hostile work environment. Sexual harassment should be addressed and prevented to avoid its detrimental impacts on the victims and, consequently, the success of the organization.

Quid Pro Quo and Hostile Environment

Quid pro quo represents the form of sexual harassment that arises when some sort of benefits are promised based on sexual favors. For instance, an administrator may seek to promote a junior worker on the condition that he/she satisfies the sexual demands. It mainly happens between an individual on a high rank in the organization and a subordinate (Hudson Jr, 2017). Some of the employment benefits that an executive may offer in exchange for sexual favors encompass approving performance reviews, salary increment, and promotion to mention a few. This form of sexual harassment may also happen in cases where there are threats of negative work effects for refusal to bestow sexual favors. Such unfavorable outcomes include demotion, undesirable assignments, and being fired.

Hostile work environment refers to the kind of sexual harassment that arises where there are persistent, inappropriate sexual remarks, requests, or advances. This is mainly in the form of physical or verbal behaviors that have a sexual perspective, for instance, displaying offensive or undesirable materials such as images of genitalia, sexual jokes, or frequent, unnecessary relations that encompass asking for dates. The occurring forms of behavior have to be unwelcome and persistent for them to result in a hostile environment (Salman, Abdullah, & Saleem, 2016). Contrary to quid pro quo, in hostile environments, there are no provisions of employment benefits in exchange for sex. Therefore, it usually happens among employees across all ranks.

Dealing with the Problem

A single occurrence of sexual harassment, whether as quid pro quo or hostile environment, is unlawful and may be the basis for a court case. The employer may be found legally responsible for the behavior of the employees who perpetrate sexual harassment since they are considered to be under his/her watch (Jacobson & Eaton, 2018). Therefore, employers are required to put stringent measures to ensure that sexual harassment does not occur in the workplace (James, 2017).

The employer should encourage employees to confront colleagues who perpetrate such vices and bring them to his/their attention if they do not dare to face such an individual or when it persists even after being condemned. The majority of professionals recommend that employers take severe measures such as sacking the perpetrators of sexual harassment in the workplace as soon as the conduct becomes “unsuitable” without waiting until it turns out to be illegal.

Conclusion

Sexual harassment is a serious issue that has hampered most workplaces across the world. It occurs in two forms: quid pro quo or hostile environment. It should be effectively tackled and prevented to evade its harmful effects on the victims and the success of the company. Employers should put stern measures to make sure that sexual harassment does not happen in the workplace, for instance, by sacking the perpetrators.

References

Chalabi, M. (2016). Sexual harassment at work: More than half of claims in US result in no charge. The Guardian. Web.

Hudson Jr, S. W. (2017). Sexual harassment: A myriad of social and business impacts. Journal of Human Resources, 5(2), 1-6.

Jacobson, R. K., & Eaton, A. A. (2018). How organizational policies influence bystander likelihood of reporting moderate and severe sexual harassment at work. Employee Responsibilities and Rights Journal, 30(1), 37-62.

James, M. (2017). After Hollywood sexual harassment scandals, they were spurred to action. Now there’s a help line to report abuse and get legal support. Los Angeles Times. Web.

Salman, M., Abdullah, F., & Saleem, A. (2016). Sexual harassment at workplace and its impact on employee turnover intentions. Business & Economic Review, 8(1), 87-102.

Introduction

Marijuana is one of the oldest herbs known to humankind. Ever since ancient times, cannabis was used to make hemp, clothing, and medicine (Caulkins et al. 18). Its narcotic properties have also been discovered about the same time period. Although the use of cannabis in textile production faded away in favor of other materials, such as cotton, its value as medicine was rediscovered in the second half of the 20th century (Caulkins et al. 20). The debate about the benefits and negative side-effects of medical marijuana is a heated subject in the US and abroad, used as a talking point by politicians and the general public.

Although there is no consensus on the matter, the movement to legalize medicinal marijuana seems to be gaining ground with each year, as one state after the other adopts a positive or a neutral stance towards the drug and the practice of utilizing it. As it stands, more than half of all US allow the use of marijuana for recreational or medicinal use. It is possible to buy the substance for medical purposes in 20 states, with 10 more allowing it to be used recreationally (Caulkins et al. 55). In the medical community, however, the consensus tends to weigh towards the opposition to these efforts. The legalization of medical marijuana threatens the exposure of a great number of people to potential side effects of its long-term use.

Marijuana versus FDA Standards

One of the greatest barriers to be overcome by pro-marijuana activists is the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is a widely-known practice in the world to thoroughly test and study every drug before allowing it to be used in medical institutions and by the general public. There are several purposes to these tests, as they are supposed to provide treating specialists with the following information:

• Determine the positive and negative outcomes of the implementation of the drug;
• Allow for precise moderation of these effects through dosage;
• Ensure optimal delivery of the drug into the body (Wilkinson and D’Souza 2377).

As it stands, medical marijuana does not have an FDA certificate of approval due to the fact that it cannot provide precise answers to any of the questions presented above. The positive and negative outcomes of medicinal marijuana use have not been thoroughly studied, and comparative randomized control trials for it are few and far between. Marijuana is, so far, the only drug to be administered by smoking, with the extent of its effects on the respiratory system being unknown (Anderson 495).

Due to the manner of application, it is impossible for the doctors to regulate healing effects and dosage. In addition, the mechanisms of addiction development to THC (Δ9 -tetrahydrocannabinol) are not thoroughly understood either (Wilkinson and D’Souza 2377). In order words, there are large gaps in knowledge about medicinal marijuana that prevent it from being certified by the FDA as a legitimate prescription drug.

Even in states and countries that have legalized its use, marijuana will not be prescribed as a primary treatment drug by any doctor that respects the patients and the profession. Because of that fact, many medicinal marijuana users have turned to frauds, semi-legal practitioners (such as homeopaths), and other venues to circumvent the need for a prescription, required in most drugstores.

Medical Marijuana: Concerns Versus Profits

One of the greatest ethical dilemmas of medicine is balancing benefits and profits. Healthcare by definition is a patient-centered type of activity, where health rather than profit has the utmost value. This axiom is there to keep greedy pharmaceutical corporations from releasing profit-maximizing drugs that would generate additional money by either being ineffective or by resulting in a variety of side effects that could be treated later for additional revenue. At the same time, the adoption of medical marijuana in most states had been motivated by profit, not medical concern. Wilkinson and D’Souza (2378) state that the majority of the southern and south-western states that legalized marijuana did so because of the existing illegal marijuana trade coupled with increasing demand from migrants.

The majority of those states are also considered to be asylum locations with high crime rates, low wages, and low economic output. They were looking to solve their budgetary problems by encouraging marijuana imports and imposing taxes rather than trying to stop the drug flow. While the socio-economic motivations and results of such policies are suspect, it is clear as day that the decision to legalize marijuana was made based not on patient benefits or a competent analysis of potential dangers of medical marijuana, but solely as an attempt to clog the holes in the state budget from additional revenues. Such a motivation, thus, is immoral and unethical, from a medical point of view.

Ignored Medical Dangers of Utilizing Marijuana

The current state of evidence for the use of medicinal marijuana is often overlooked by its proponents, who cite sporadic and inconsistent evidence about marginal to moderate effects of utilizing marijuana in treating certain non-critical symptoms of diseases, the only major one being neuropathic pain. At the same time, a large body of literature indicates significant issues associated with the long-term use of marijuana. The major medical side effects of the herb are as follows:

• One of the biggest concerns, as voiced by Wilkinson and D’Souza, is the fact that “there is evidence that marijuana exposure is associated with an increased risk of psychotic disorders in vulnerable individuals” (2377). As THC is a substance that affects the neural system, there is the potential for developing various psychotic conditions, especially in individuals with a history of alcohol and drug abuse.
• Smoking is associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer as well as other chronic negative conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, bronchitis, and others (Caulkins et al. 93).
• Long-term use of THC is associated with memory lapses, memory loss, and higher chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease, amnesia, and dissociative identity disorders (Wilkinson and D’Souza 2377). Since marijuana enables individuals to consume THC by smoking, long-term use of marijuana threatens to expose the population to these negative side effects.
• Short-term effects of smoking marijuana would increase the chances of various crimes committed under the effects of the drug, such as violence, homicide, and car-related accidents (Caulkins et al. 95).
• There is a potential of marijuana being used alongside other mind-altering drugs, alcohol, and tobacco, exacerbating the damaging potential of all the substances involved (Caulkins et al. 96).

As it is possible to see, the list is significant and backed with multiple researches dedicated to the subject.

What Are the Uses for Medicinal Marijuana Though?

Marijuana has some potential for being used in medicine, mostly due to being a natural source of THC. The active component is a psychoactive substance that has the potential to decrease pain, increase awareness, and help reactivate short-term memory in individuals while inducing a pleasant effect. Some of the diseases that could be treated using medicinal marijuana are as follows:

• Cancer-related pain. This type of pain varies in scale and intensity but is characterized by its near-permanent presence in a patient (Kramer 113). Marijuana has a low-to-moderate effect in reducing this pain and inducing a lingering after-effect.
• Neuropathic pain. This type of pain is associated with diabetes, which is a very common diagnosis in the US. The application of marijuana is similar in nature to that of cancer-related pain (Pacula and Smart 397).
• Chemotherapy-induced vomiting. Some researches show that the use of marijuana helps relax the stomach muscles and reduce the contractions associated with vomiting, thus reducing the negativity of the symptoms.
• Arteriosclerosis. This disease is characterized by the hardening of the interior of blood vessels with age. THC has a positive effect on coronary artery function, thus improving the overall condition of the patient and slowing down the degeneration processes (Monte 342).

However, as it is possible to see, nearly all applications of medicinal marijuana revolve around THC – the main psychoactive element of the herb. THC is available in pills, which have been approved by the FDA and available for prescription by healthcare specialists. However, the proponents of medicinal marijuana insist on the promotion of the smoking application of the herb, despite pills being more convenient and precise in their application. Smoking, on the other hand, is less regulated, less effective, and associated with numerous breathing complications. These factors indicate a dishonest position of the supporters of the legalization of the drug.

Conclusions

This essay demonstrated the main problems with the argument for the legalization of medical marijuana. Although there is an economic incentive for certain states and organizations to lift the ban off of marijuana and allow its use in the medical and recreational fields, the downsides of such exposure would be tremendous. Humanity is already suffering from widespread and unrestricted use of tobacco and alcohol.

However, both of these ‘legal drugs’ are integrated into society and the economy, to the point where trying to ban either of them would only make matters worse. The marijuana market, while growing, is not nearly as ubiquitous as tobacco and alcohol. While its negative effects are different and, as some may argue, not as expansive as either of these substances, it has the potential for harmful addictions. Nor will it replace tobacco and alcohol, instead only adding to the number of dangerous and abusable products the FDA already has to contend with.

The body of literature on marijuana has significant gaps in knowledge, as not enough longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials are available to standardize the use of medical marijuana.

It has useful and effective substitutes, and its positive effects on the body are considered to be moderate at best. The legalization of medical marijuana creates a legal precedent that could be used to press for complete legalization of the drug in other states and countries. Its medical properties are not fully studied, while its dangers and potential for addiction are significant. To summarize, cannabis remains what it is: A herb with low-to-moderate medical benefits, with plenty of replacement drugs available, and a significant potential for side effects and addictions.

Works Cited

Anderson, Mark D., et al. “Medical Marijuana Laws and Teen Marijuana Use.” American Law and Economics Review, vol. 17, no. 2, 2015, pp. 495-528.

Caulkins, Jonathan P., et al. Marijuana Legalization: What Everyone Needs to Know. Oxford University Press, 2016.

Kramer, Joan L. “Medical marijuana for cancer.” CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, vol. 62, no. 5, 2015, pp. 109-122.

Monte, Andrew A., et al. “The Implications of Marijuana Legalization in Colorado.” Jama, vol. 313, no. 3, 2015, pp. 241-242.

Pacula, Rosalie Liccardo, and Rosanna Smart. “Medical Marijuana and Marijuana Legalization.” Annual review of clinical psychology, vol. 13, 2017, pp. 397-419.

Wilkinson, Samuel T., and Deepak C. D’Souza. “Problems with the Medicalization of Marijuana.” JAMA, vol. 311, no. 23, 2014, p. 2377.

Introduction

The foundation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is strongly built on the Islamic doctrine. The Basic Law, which abides by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad as stated in the Holy Quran, entitles the power of leadership to male descendants of the founder King Abdullaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud. From a human rights point of view, this law does not guarantee gender equality to the Saudi women.

Seemingly, Saudi politicians have always based their arguments on the Islamic dogmas to evade the emerging pressure from the Saudi women to have their political share. However, controversy arises when the state-funded religious scholars (the ulema) fail to support women. Indeed, majority of the religious scholars and Islamic leaders regard the Basic Law as nondiscriminatory since it follows the Islamic Law (Sharia). However, some of the scholars have remained on the forefront to challenge the Basic Law in an attempt to eliminate the parity that exists between men and women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Basic Law has imposed numerous restrictions that deny the Saudi women the right to vote, work, drive, and acquire education. These restrictions have raised national debates to fight for the civil rights for Saudi women. This essay provides an overview of the women rights problem that faces Saudi women.

Women’s Position in Saudi Arabian Society

The position of women in the Sunni Muslim society is a controversial issue that raises unending debates about the rights of women. The controversy lies within a cross-cultural nation that is strongly founded on the teachings of the Holy Quran and Saudi Arabian traditions that overemphasize the Islamic doctrines (Cummings and Held 101). Saudi Arabian women face numerous gender-based restrictions that deny them independence and self-fulfillment.

The Islamic religion has a profound influence on the socio-economic and political aspects of the Saudi Arabians. This situation has significantly affected the way Arabians live, especially for the Saudi women who face distinguished inequitable effects (Mtango 49).

The author reveals that Article 8 of the Basic Law clearly outlines that the government should build on the Sharia that advocates fairness. Nonetheless, many Arabian women and men have attempted to challenge the Muslim conservatives who practice the Sharia laws in a traditional context rather than in a religious framework. Hamdan reveals that numerous Saudi activists have based claims on a variety of reasons that explain how the Saudi laws have had significant implications for the Saudi society (221). The activities of many women depend on the permission that is granted to them by male guardians, preferably the closest male relatives (the mahram), irrespective of their spousal status or age. Precisely, the basic law restricts Saudi women with reference to education, health, work, right to vote, and full representation in court (Butters 45).

The Islamic culture and the traditional aspects of the Saudi Arabian society have weakened the powers of women to participate in the formulation of political decisions. Consequently, the ultimate life of a woman in the Kingdom of Arabia hinges on the authority of men. The culture of the Saudi society enforces separation between men and women in public. This situation hampers Saudi women from opportunities that range from education and career development, employment, movement, and socialization to business among other opportunities (Sivakumar and Sarkar 29).

Marriage and the Health of Saudi Women

The practice of marriage in Saudi Arabia is the responsibility of the mahram. An unmarried woman is answerable to her father. Married women are answerable to their husbands, whereas widows are answerable to their sons for matters that pertain to marriage. The Saudi women, both aged and young, have very little influence on their marriage. The marriage laws have not specified any minimum age that a Saudi woman should marry (Mtango 51).

In addition, the Basic Law still allows underage marriage. The author reveals how the Saudi government passed a bill that supported the marriage of girls aged below 16 years if the girl’s guardian acquires a relinquishment from a court of law, a health report, and authorization from the mother of the child. The contract of marriage is agreed between the mahram and the prospected husband. Neither the girl nor the mother has influence on the marriage. Furthermore, marriage that occurs between a Saudi and a non-Saudi citizen requires an approval from the Interior Ministry. However, this ministry approves such applications faster for men than for women (Mtango 52).

Moreover, the Saudi law permits inheritance of wives. This fact is more of a tradition than the religion itself. Inheritance of wives or marriage of wives to close relatives has led to cases of inherited diseases amongst the Saudi people. Mobaraki and Söderfeldt reveal a family case where 3.5 percent of an extended family had a condition known as the beta-thalassaemia (118).

The Sharia laws, which are upheld in Saudi Arabia support enforced polygamous marriage. Forced polygamy is contrary to the teaching of the Islamic religion. The Holy Quran accentuates that a man can marry a maximum of four wives if he has enough wealth to provide for the women. Islamic teachings make it clear that polygamy is not obligatory. Rather, it is a man’s choice (Butters 47). Although the Islamic law expects a man to provide the basic and other indispensable needs for women, research carried out by Mobaraki and Söderfeldt revealed that polygamous marriages have affected the mental abilities of many Saudi women (117).

As a result, they suffer psychosomatic problems that have severe implications on family life. These family conditions have profound effects on the upbringing of children. The authors unveil that children from polygamous families succumb to poor relationships with other learners and teachers more often in relation to children whose family background is monogamous. Furthermore, the marriage of underage girls has led to negative physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual implications for young girls. The practice of marrying young girls before they attain their maturity is a violation of basic human rights as the law deprives them of the sole decision to judge their own marriage time.

Women Education

Despite the advocacy for knowledge in the Islamic religion, the Sharia in Saudi Arabia has limited Saudi women from harnessing their abilities in education over the years (Cummings and Held 119). However, during the regime of the current King Abdullah bin

Abdulaziz Al Saud, the government has shown significant efforts to improve access to education for Saudi girls and women. The emerging need for equity and placement of females in the labor market has compelled King Abdullah’s government to increase the enrolment of girls in schools. As a result, the increasing quest to educate women has led to the establishment of more educational facilities to accommodate the rising number of girls. This case has seen the country undergo gradual educational restructurings in a variety of aspects such as infrastructural changes, recruitment of new teachers, and revision of the Saudi curriculum for education. Nevertheless, a noteworthy incongruity is evident between the specific skills provided to the girls and the actual skills that are required in the labor market (Hamdan 46).

Inadequacy of such skills has led to an increasing unemployment rate amongst women. Furthermore, the education program for girl schools is not comprehensive as the one deployed in the boy’s schools. This situation makes them unsuitable for competitive job markets. Consequently, there is little participation of the female workforce in the labor market labor.

Actually, the Saudi Arabian society exhibits peculiarity in its social sphere of life. Women are highly secluded from the public and social environments. Nevertheless, the Saudi government has attempted to change the educational life of Saudi women for the last four decades. Hamdani reveals that King Abdullah’s government has championed for universal education for girls and boys (43).

The numbers of schools have increased considerably with more girls enrolling in both the middle schools and university colleges. Researchers from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) have revealed that the Saudi government has accomplished a significant goal of advocacy for women education in the republic. Nevertheless, the curriculum for girls omits important dimensions of education such as sports due to the country’s norm of excluding females from the public arena (Hamdani 203). The author reveals that failure to incorporate physical education in female schools has led to obesity among young Saudi girls.

Comparative data that was collected by Mobaraki and Söderfeld indicated a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 45-percent for Saudi women aged between 34 and 68 years against a BMI of 25.6 percent for the Saudi males (116). In addition, the authors attest that the education program for women does not provide opportunities for law, journalism, and engineering among other related courses. As a result, Saudi women rarely contribute to the social development of the republic.

Mobility

There is no such a thing like ‘freedom of movement’ for Saudi women. The Saudi law restricts the movement of women, except for a few cases where a woman needs to seek the company of her guardian. A woman in Saudi Arabian context cannot move around or travel freely without the presence or the knowledge of man. Where a woman has an irresistible need to travel, she has to seek permission from the mahran prior to the travel (Mtango 46). Unrelenting needs to move around the country for personal needs have forced some women to seek the companies of unknown men to carry out their activities. The Saudi law deems such a practice illegal and breach of the marriage laws. The fact that there is a restriction of women movement in Saudi Arabia limits access to the nation’s diverse resources.

Sivakumar and Sarkar reveal that the Saudi government does not allow women to drive owing to a number of religious and traditional myths that govern the Saudi society (30). Although restriction is not documented, there is no issuance of driving licenses to women, even within the boundaries of the country. The fact that there is a need for a woman to uncover her face while driving is a factor that reinforces their ban to driving. Secondly, Saudi Arabian women stay indoors most of the times. Driving may necessitate often movements from the house. Thirdly, Muslim conservatives proclaim that driving may trigger interaction with non–mahram men at inconveniencing situations such as vehicle breakdowns or traffic accidents. In the Saudi society, it is a taboo for women to interact with unrelated men.

Moreover, claims have it that the involvement of women on the road can lead to traffic congestion that might obstruct young men from driving. In fact, traffic researchers have proven that some male drivers are far worse than their female counterparts are. Lastly, conservatives assert that women driving might not respect some profound cultural values such as women isolation from men (Butters 44). In addition to the driving ban, there is undocumented Saudi Arabian philosophy that hampers women from using public means of transport. Conventionalists claim that the public transportation exposes women to non-mahran males. Therefore, they require women to adopt the use of cabs and personal drivers, preferably from the mahran to abide by the traditions of the Saudi society. These chauvinistic laws deprive women of their right to movement (Butters 47).

Conclusion

The issue of addressing the need for women rights in Saudi Arabian context remains a controversy among many researchers, policymakers, and human rights activists. There is an overemphasis of the Islamic religion through the Saudi laws, which violate the conventional Islamic Sharia among Islamic communities. It might sound an enforcement of falsehood to say that Saudi women enjoy any benefits from the Saudi governance that places them in a darkened life context.

The regime of King Abdullah has really championed for the rights of women albeit under some restrictions. Despite such progress, the republic’s human rights activists still have hard tasks ahead to challenge the government to waive some of the restrictions on matters such as education, driving, travel, marriage, voting, and representation in court matters among other limitations. The strength of any Saudi woman will depend on the nation’s respect for her rights as a human being who has needs, priorities, and cognitive abilities to fashion a significant life.

Works Cited

Butters, Andrew. “Saudi’s Small Steps.” Time 174.15(2009): 44-7. Print.

Cummings, John, and Colbert Held. Middle East Patterns: Places, People, and Politics. Boulder, CO: Westview Press, 2013. Print.

Hamdan, Amani. “Women and education in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and achievements.” International Education Journal 6.1(2005): 42-64. Print.

Hamdan, Amani. “The Role of Authentic Islam: The Way Forward for Women in Saudi Arabia.” Hawwa 10.3(2012): 200-220. Print.

Mobaraki, Edgar, and Binsmack Söderfeldt. “Gender inequity in Saudi Arabia and its role in public Health.” Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal 16.1(2010): 113-18. Print.

Mtango, Sifa. “A state of oppression? Women’s rights in Saudi Arabia.” Asia-Pacific Journal on Human Rights & the Law 5.1(2004): 49-67. Print.

Sivakumar, Abirami, and Siddhartha Sarkar. “Women Entrepreneurs in Small and Medium Scale Businesses in Saudi Arabia.” International Journal of Finance & Policy Analysis 4.1(2012): 25-32. Print.

Where do members of this group live?

The Korean community makes up almost 0.6% of the US population. It is important to note that the vast majority of these people are of South Korean descent. These people are often self-employed and run small businesses. It is necessary to add that Koreans in Los Angeles try to preserve their language and traditions. Moreover, they share their traditions with Americans who tend to like Korean culture (and especially cuisine). In Los Angeles, the population of people of Korean descent is almost 17%. Korean Americans love visiting Koreatown where Korean traditions are manifested everywhere and in everything.

Are there any special historical/political reasons why members of the group have settled in the US and the LA area?

It is possible to trace three major waves of immigration. The first one took place between 1903 and 1905 when Korean men moved to Hawaii in their attempt to find jobs. Notably, in the 1910-the 1920s, the wives of those men came and communities started their formation. The second wave took place after the Korean War. It is noteworthy that it was quite peculiar as it was mainly characterized by female immigration as Korean women who married American servicemen moved to the USA.

Finally, there was the third wave of immigration in the 1960s. One of the major reasons for coming to the USA was the desire of Korean people to help their children to have a better life. Clearly, the economic, as well as the political situation in South and North Korea, made people try to find more opportunities in a new country. Korean parents have often sent their children to get an education in the USA as in their home countries education was of insufficient quality due to difficult economic and social (and political) situation in the area.

Private education

As for specific schools to study the Korean language and culture, they are not common in Los Angeles. The US schools do not incorporate the Korean language and culture into their curricula. At the same time, people can start classes Korean at Beverly Hills Lingual Institute. The school offers classes in many languages (including Korean). The institute is situated at 139 N Canon Drive (Beverly Hills).

Religious worship

The vast majority of Korean Americans (70-80%) living in Los Angeles are Christians. There are almost 2,800 Korean Christian churches in the United States. There are Catholic and Protestant Korean churches in Los Angeles. Sermons are mostly delivered in Korean but there are English sermons as well.

Stores/supermarkets

There are numerous Asian supermarkets in Los Angeles. These are often divided into different departments run by such groups as Chinese, Korean, and Japanese Americans. There are also lots of Korean shops and supermarkets; they are especially numerous in Koreatown. For example, such Korean supermarkets as Zion Market, Han Kook Supermarket, and Hannam Chain Supermarket are quite popular among people living in Los Angeles (both Korean Americans and other ethnicities). In these Korean shops and supermarkets, all signs, banners, and details concerning products are written in Korean. Importantly, the staff are all of the Korean descent and speak both Korean and English.

Newspapers/magazines

There are quite many Korean newspapers and magazines. They are written in Korean and they can be bought in Korean supermarkets, bookstores and so on. Some of the Korean newspapers that can be found in Los Angeles are Korean Central Daily, Korea Times, and Los Angeles Edition. These newspapers deal with issues of Korean Americans. One of the most famous Korean magazines is KoreAm, a monthly magazine that deals with issues Korean Americans may face.

Legal services

It is possible to note that there are quite many legal companies providing services to people of different ethnicity. Thus, such companies as Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles and Jenner & Block provide legal services to people of different backgrounds (including Korean) in a variety of fields. However, it is possible to single out the company Korean Trade Attorneys, an international legal company that has offices in many cities of the world (including Los Angeles).

Festivals

The LA Korean Festival is one of the major and most popular festivals of Korean culture. It started in 1973 when a group of Korean Americans decided to gather and have a celebration of Korean culture and heritage. Now, it is held annually and many people (of many ethnicities) gather to know more about the Korean culture. There are dances, performances, and displays of arts and crafts and, of course, famous Korean cuisine.

Special occupations

As has been mentioned above, the majority of Korean Americans are self-employed and they often run shops and supermarkets. They often run small Korean restaurants.

Radio/TV

As for Korean radio, it is possible to single out three major radio stations: KMPC, KYPA, and KFOX. Radio Korea (KMPC (1540 AM)) is broadcast in Korean in Los Angeles. The radio focuses on issues concerning Korean Americans and their life in the USA and Los Angeles. There are news, music, and numerous programs that are popular among American Koreans. As for TV, it is possible to mention such channels as KCBS, KABC, KTLA, and others. These channels also concentrate on issues Korean Americans may face.

Restaurants

There are thousands of Korean restaurants of different sizes in Los Angeles. As has been mentioned above, they are mostly run by Korean Americans. The staff is bilingual. Menus are often provided in two languages, English and Korean. Clearly, the restaurants do not only serve Korean traditional food but also reveal many facets of the Korean culture. One of the most popular restaurants is Kang Hodong Baekjong.

Driving School

There are quite many driving schools that provide services in Korean. Thus, Korean speaking people can easily take driving lessons in Korean in such schools located in Los Angeles as Seoul Driving School (Koreatown), Vija Driving School (Koreatown), Dhaka Driving School (Koreatown), and many others. There is also an online Korean driving school located in Los Angeles, Union Traffic School. Clearly, the two languages are available.

Public Sector/government services

It is necessary to note that there are not many public sector/government services available in the Korean language. Thus, it is difficult to find medical or unemployment information in Korean. Nonetheless, in Los Angeles, there are agencies that can help Korean Americans. These are the Korean Consulate General, Korean Cultural Center, and the Korean Education Center.

The Korean language is extensively used in Koreatown as well as in Korean shops, supermarkets, and restaurants. It is necessary to note that the language is mainly used by older Korean Americans. The younger generation (especially teenagers) tend to use English in most cases but they are still fluent in Korean. It is possible to assume that the Korean language will continue developing in Los Angeles as such events as LA Korean Festival and the fact that many newspapers, magazines, and programs are in Korean suggest that Korean Americans want to preserve and cherish their traditions and language.