Human behavior Essay Example for Free

Human behavior Essay Behavior of individuals in various settings is at times very difficult due to ethical constraints. This includes the investigation of why people take risks or gamble with their decision making processes. However, it is quite interesting to note that on situations which are not so threatening for individuals, it is apparent that people typically take risks in picking their options or when making their final choice. The following shows available data on human motivation and the theories surrounding the topic. Risk taking is defined as engaging in any activity with an uncertain outcome, as one scholar puts it. Theories of Motivation on Risk Taking Different theories describe and explain risk taking and why human beings are motivated to pursue or engage in activities or behavior that put their lives in much danger or create an element of risk of whatever form. The following are taken from current literature in the field of human behavior analysis. 1. Psychoanalytic or Psychodynamic Theory. Following the tradition of Freud, human motivation to take risks is taken from the basic understanding that when people feel fear in a certain situation or occasion, it is not good to overcome that fear. Freudian theory condemns outrightly risk taking as plain insanity. It reasons that to risk man’s very life has no warrant at all. It is nonsense. In other important spheres of life, however, to risk is inevitable and deemed necessary. There are many successful people in the business world who are known as risk takers (Llewellyn, 2003). They succeed, in fact, because of this unique attitude in them which is considered foolhardy in other realms. While it is true that life is the most precious commodity a man could ever possess, and to risk it is foolishness, it is equally true that not to risk at all in other areas means cowardice and immobility. Psychoanalysts even treat risk-taking behavior as a symptom of â€Å"a diseased mind. † Because for them, life is not to be gambled, therefore, it is insanity when someone chooses bungee-jumping as his/her sport (Llewellyn, 2003). 2. The Evolutionary Theory. Evolutionary theory explained man’s adventurous nature as simply an expression of his primal instincts (Llewellyn, 2003). Assuming that Darwin’s theory is correct, that man evolved from apes like common animal, a human early in the evolutionary process had to fight for his life to survive. This survival nature, according to this theory, is retained in modern man’s genetic make up (Llewellyn, 2003). This is the reason why even those people in the elite echelon of society choose to use their favorite sport like riding a dirigible as their campaign tool to promote their business. The problem with this theory is that it has remained to be unproven and lacking in evidences as yet. Humans are not proven to have descended from apes. 3. Contemporary Theories a. Extroversion and Introversion Personality theories contend that this two broad scope of personality traits capture the individual’s propensity towards behaving in certain ways. Extroversion helps explain why some people tend to be outgoing and hence, the greater the probability to engage in risky decisions (Llewellyn, 2003). b. Emotional Stability and Neuroticism This is another of the Contemporary theories that shed light on traits that remain stable over a period of time, clearly indicating which may best describe an individual and what differs him/her from another. Emotionally stable people, as those who posit on this model, may take risks but have taken many things to great lengths in order to get the best possible option or alternative (Llewellyn, 2003). Conversely, people who are more on the neuroticism side manifest the greater tendency to take risks without much weighing on the consequences. The tendency to be impulsive is to a higher degree present in individuals under this category. 4. Eysenck and Costa and McCrae’s model These two theorists added their own version to the array of personality theories. The former has the Psychoticism versus Humaneness dimension while the latter two theorists added three dimensions: Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness. The main argument against these classifications is its narrowness in explaining and categorizing the complexities that make human behavior (Llewellyn, 2003). While they help explore different behaviors or attitudes, there are more that remained unexplained. Until now, certain serial killers or murderers, defy the above mentioned explanations of human behavior. 5. The Zuckerman ‘Sensation Seeking Trait’ Although an expansion on one of the features of Psychoticism and Humaneness model, Sensation Seeking helps also explain the differences between individuals. There are people who do have a higher degree of this trait; like more men seek sensation-enhancing-experiences or â€Å"venturesome† traits, while others have very minimal of this trait. This is what Zuckerman refers to in his Sensation seeking trait theory. What other experts consider as this theory’s limitation is embedded in the matter of other personality traits’ influence on risk taking behavior other than this trait by itself. Studies reveal that the psychological profiles of risk takers are diverse and the universality of this trait is still further being investigated (Llewellyn, 2003). Risk taking is a fascinating area of interest for many students of human behavior. When explored through the eyes of a Psychoanalyst, the subject becomes even more intriguing because Freudian understanding possesses an attractive alternative to the more cognitive way of assessing risk taking behavior. When the subject of evolutionary psychology of explaining risk taking behavior is concerned, it contains a ring of truth in it that many today are convinced of its manner of explaining behavior. Instinct is still a potent facet in behavior that cannot be eradicated from the study of behavior of humans (Llewellyn, 2003). When people are confronted with the distinctiveness of the human personality, the dimensions are almost unlimited; some experts opt for the multi-dimensional method while others choose the narrow and concise way. All of these approaches have their strengths and weaknesses; degree of breadth and limitations. However, they are good and profitable for jumpstarting further explorations into the human psyche and its accompanying expressions. Reference: 1. Llewellyn, David J. 2003. The Psychology of Risk Taking. Accessed in www. risktaking. co. uk.

12 Angery Men :: essays research papers

The movie Twelve Angry Men begins with an eighteen year old boy from the ghetto who is on trial for the murder of his abusive father. A jury of twelve men are locked in the deliberation room to decide the fate of the young boy. All evidence is against the boy and a guilty verdict would send him to die in the electric chair. The judge informs the jurors that they are faced with a grave decision and that the court would not entertain any acts of mercy for the boy if found guilty. Even before the deliberation talks begin it is apparent most of the men are certain the boy is guilty. However, when the initial poll is taken Juror #8 (Henry Fonda) registers a shocking not guilty vote. Immediately the room is in uproar. The rest of the jury resents the inconvenient of his decision. After questioning his sanity they hastily decide to humor the juror #8 (Henry Fonda) by agreeing to discuss the trial for one hour. Eventually, as the talks proceed juror #8 slowly undermines their confidence by saying that the murder weapon is widely available to anyone, and that the testimony of the key witness is suspect. Gradually they are won over by his arguments and even the most narrow minded of his fellow jurors hesitantly agrees with him. Their verdict is now a solid not guilty. Arriving at a unanimous not guilty verdict does not come easily. The jury encounters many difficulties in learning to communicate and deal with each other. What seems to be a decisive guilty verdict as deliberations begin slowly becomes a questionable not sure. Although the movie deals with issues relating to the process of effective communication this paper will focus of two reasons why they encounter difficulties and how they overcome them. First, we will apply the Johari grid theory and see how it applies to their situation. Then, we will see how each individual's frame of reference and prejudices effect their perception which cause difficulties in the communication process. If we analyze the Johari grid of each juror we see a large hidden area in the case of all of the men. Take into consideration, referred to by juror numbers only they do not even have the benefit of knowing their names. These men have never talked before. Each of them come from different situations with

American Music of the New Millennium

Music creates invigorating environments and atmospheres in nightclubs, homes, churches, picnics, cars and everywhere else on this planet. Music industry attracts creative, imaginative minds who has the capability of developing ideas that fascinates everyone. Many years ago, music consisted of one category, classical. From classical, Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Rock and Roll, Pop, Hip-Hop were invented. The music bringing in the most money are the music that stays up with the current trends. This type of music has a bigger audience. Today, we have several music types that can be divided into popular classifications.Updated audio technology enhances sounds of notes played, chord progressions and vocal techniques more distinctively. Music appealing to popular cultures consistently changes with current trends. Today’s popular music categories appealing to young generations, staying with current trends can be classified as Hip-Hop or Rap, Pop, or progressive Rhythm and Blues. Popular art ists such as Kayne West, Hurricane Chris and 50 cent play music classified as Hip-Hop or Rap. Jazz, Rock and Roll, mixed with international African Drumming and Latino cultures shaped the personality of Hip-Hop.Hip-Hops tonality is formed by constant heavily accented beats and strong notes. The constant backbeat defining Rock and Roll carried over to Hip-Hop. Hip-Hop arranges the instruments to put stronger emphases on the backbeat, creating an atmosphere of invigoration and energy. Teen music audiences are vibrant and energetic. â€Å"We could say that music perception is measured and studied as though it is the ability to perceive features of music† (Dorrel, 2006). Heavy accents on instrumentation intrigue young music audiences. Energetic rhythms, provided by percussion are youth oriented, and are easily perceived by young people.Hip-Hop in the future may become faster, have many more rhythms playing simultaneously, and become more integrated with other nations. The number of notes written into Hip-Hop’s musical scores will increase. There is a new dance trend popularized by Hip-Hop (and Madonna) called Krumping. Hip-Hop music steadily influences development of new dance styles, both in the studios and in the nightclubs. Other artists of another division of the pop music classification are Fergie, Rihanna and Gwen Stefani. Pop music sometimes follows the same time signatures as Hip-Hop.The duration of the accents, frequency’s and pitches are comparable to Hip-Hops style. Identical Hip-Hop sheet music may be used for pop. The emphases on the instruments defines the difference. Pop artists singing voices are more accented, above the percussion. The audible focus emphasize different instruments. Electronic instruments (Keyboard, Organ) are emphasized while percussions provide the steady ongoing pulse. As time progresses, all popular music note’s and rhythms speed and frequency increase. For current music trends to stay on top of the music field, they must constantly create new themes, new overall tonality’s.One of the changes inevitably coming along is the ways music is brought to us. Music will be available through radios, devices requiring service contracts without downloadable device and concert shows. Artists will start touring more or only agreeing to make albums requiring a service contract. There will be more competition to create stunning shows. The artists will have to â€Å"make it (concert) memorable. Give them ups and downs, highs and lows, mix the comfortable with the unexpected† (Elmy, 2003). In the new millennium, pop bands may be putting shows together with rap bands.The final classification of music is Rhythm and Blues. Some Rhythm and Blues singers are Beyonce, Janet Jackson and Ciara. The melody and electronic instruments are emphasized in R&B. Musical theatre, Jazz and Big Band influenced R&B. Dancing, and types of dancing defined and characterized Musical Theatre, Jazz, Big Ba nd. In today’s R&B videos, artists uses distinctive dance styles. In Rihanna’s video, Umbrella (also R&B), you can see the Fosse technique in her solo dancing, specifically from All That Jazz. Future Rhythm and Blues will continue return to its roots from Big Band and Jazz, which was played in musical theatres.Popular music, is music appealing to the average ages from children to late twenties. Children are never to young to become a fan of popular music produced by the music industry. Some two year olds love Hurricane Chris and KISS. The artists appealing to younger generations may be any age. Record label’s executives are conducting professional music business to appeal to younger people. The music trends constantly change, continuously inventing ways to hold audiences with short attention spans. If music shows are designed to hold the attention of ADD five years old, it will certainly hold adult audiences.When applying for an executive position, the straightl aced interview rules no longer apply. â€Å"It’s no accident labels are hiring producers. These guys have the sense to stay on top of market changes and deliver sales. You’ve definitely gotta hire someone who’s going to bring a little more content to what people are doing nowadays, because if you don’t, you’re going to get pushed out of the race† (Marshall, 2007). Future of music will bring more breakthrough techniques including improvement of vocal quality, musical arrangements of songs, and recording technology. Artists are now refusing to make albums.Madonna recently left her lifetime record label, Warner Brothers because Live Nation promotes concert tours. These live performances will likely eliminate any music sales to individuals. Legitimate businesses are going to be the primary purchasers of hard copies of music. Today, only dance studios with 2000 students purchase the required licenses to play and use copyrighted music. The smaller dance studios do not abide with these laws. Artists advantage to producing music is currently getting eliminated. The reality shows, American Idol, Dancing With the Stars can be very misleading.Why is Paula Abdul no longer singing and making albums, since she is a bridge to music contracts? Younger people may lack money to purchase all favorite tunes. However, the cost of getting music to them costs a small fortune. The popular music can currently be divided into three classifications. The most creative people combined Rhythm and Blues coming from classic musical theatre, jazz and blues originating in 1920’s and marketed current popular cultures. Notes; Elmy, T. (2003, May). Playing Live: How To Structure A Kick-Ass Set. Canadian Musician, 25(3), 60. Retrieved November 17, 2007,from Academic Search Complete database. http://search. ebscohost. com/login. aspx? direct=true&db=a9h&AN=10303241&site=ehost-live Phillip Dorrel, (2006 October 15) Music Perception: What Is It That We Perceive When We Perceive Music? Retrieved November 17, 2007 http://www. 1729. com/blog/MusicPerception. html Marshall, S. (2007, February 26). MUSIC LABELS' NEW LEADERS. Crain's New York Business, 23(9), 1-8. Retrieved November 17, 2007, from Regional Business News database. http://search. ebscohost. com/login. aspx? direct=true&db=bwh&AN=24351670&site=ehost-live

Islam, Science, and Evolution - 1370 Words

Since the 1800’s, the influence of Darwin’s theory of evolution has been taken into thorough consideration and repetitively debated to whether human biological development evolved from chimpanzees through out time along with the idea of how all life on earth came to existence. In fact, this theory has struck such a high level of controversey that it primarily became a crucial idea of intellectuality discussed within the West and around the world. Science and relegion have been the greatest factors which have shaped and mended values and ideas of western societies, essentially making a lasting impression on human history. Most writers and theologians believe that science and relegion are ideaologies which condradict one another and carry†¦show more content†¦Given the novel Science and Religion by John Brook, he has emphasised that religion has been defined in terms of a belief in supernatural beings or in terms of a commitment to some transcendent other, which serves to integrate ones life (6). Another example would be T.H. Janabis Clinging To A Myth where Bertrand Russell describes how science depends on perception and influence; its credibility is due to the fact that the perceptions are as such as any observer can test (15). And that is where problems arise. Since science functions within a world-view in regards of natural phenomena as the produce of life while the hypothesis of creation concerning the evolutionary theory cannot be tested, people automatially assume that creationism removes itself from the scientific realm. The term evolution essentially means very slow changes or particular alterations through out time. Muslims, the nation of Islam, agree with creationism and hold true to the fact that the Holy Quran consists of accurate information revealed about human exitence and that God created the world, the rest of the universe and all life forms many thousands of years ago. Since controvercial levels are high, individualists and organizations decided to create different belief systems in regards to evolution and creation hence each one must be specifically noted. Naturalistic evolution is a widespread belief system whichShow MoreRelatedCommon Threads Throughout Judaism, Christianity, and Islam1233 Words   |  5 PagesThe monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have over many thousands of years established many traditions and beliefs. Many of these are from their respective book of scripture such as the Bible, Torah, or Qu’ran. 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This controversy Is disputed in many societies and some even incorporate it in politics. This topic is still a hotspot in today s media and its popularity has led it to be debated and discussed in many universities aroundRead MoreReligion Is The Most Important Aspect Of A Person s Life1057 Words   |  5 Pagesfor its contributions in mathematical science, trade and commerce, and the great teaching of the Quorum. In ancient times where cultural warfare and battles among various ethnic groups have destroyed important developments in science, Muslims strived to preserve the heritage of the ancient world. Through a codified, systemized, explained, criticized system, Muslims took over teachings that were created by other cultures and preserved or adopted their science to be translated and preserved in theirRead MoreThe Battle Of Creationism And Evolutionary Theory869 Words   |  4 Pagesmatter. Evolution in itself is a theory proposed by Charles Darwin in 1859. 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