DIVERSITY!

The term "diversity" is a multifaceted concept that can be applied to various contexts, including physical conditions, mental states, and social phenomena. It can be used to describe a character's personality, a plot device, or a behavioral element. In everyday language, it can be used to describe a problem, a challenge, or a solution. Regardless of the context, the word "diversity" carries a sense of complexity and nuance. Yet it can be used to explore and understand better a wide range of human experiences.

In our previous session (Four), we discussed the importance of considering the "People Factor" in problem-solving. We began with the question, "If you only listen to those you already agree with, what have you learned?"

In our upcoming book, "The Human Factor", we will delve deeper into the topic of diversity, with the help of multiple experts, each within a specific field regarding the ‘Human Element’.

During this Session (Five), we will briefly touch on some of the most common subsets of "Diversity". However, before we proceed, we would like to emphasize three key points:

Firstly, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences that each individual brings to the table. By actively seeking out and valuing diverse viewpoints, we can enrich our understanding and improve our problem-solving abilities.

Secondly, it is crucial to recognize and address any biases or prejudices that may exist within us, and our organizations. By actively working to overcome these biases, we can create a more inclusive and equitable environment that fosters innovation and growth.

Thirdly, Diversity is one of the few foundational elements in life that offer you an opportunity to broaden your knowledge and learn something different, even something new.

Diversity is a term that can evoke strong emotions and opinions. It is important to note that our purpose in this session is not to make judgments or draw conclusions about what is better or right. Rather, our goal is to introduce the subject and encourage thoughtful reflection based on your individual understanding, experiences, and beliefs.

As previously stated, the term "diversity" is a highly emotionally charged word that can have significant variations depending on an individual's cultural background, personal experiences, and level of comprehension.

In this context, we are discussing the importance of diversity and the need for individuals to be aware of their own biases and assumptions. Here we mention that diversity can bring new perspectives and ideas to the table, and that it is important to recognize and value the differences that exist among individuals, groups, and cultures. We also want to emphasize the need for individuals to be open-minded and willing to learn from others, in order to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Key point, learning and understanding does not by definition mean complete agreement. It simply means co-operating towards a common goal.

?Here we are going to touch on some of the more common types of diversity:

Cultural: The cultural practices, social norms, and material characteristics of a particular racial, religious, or social group, as well as the distinctive features of daily life and leisure activities shared by individuals in a specific time and place, are collectively referred to as "culture." This cultural identity is shaped by intellectual and aesthetic training or exposure, resulting in the development of taste and an appreciation for the finer things in life. Ultimately, an individual's cultural background influences their perspective and attitudes to whether they embrace or reject certain aspects of their or other’s culture.

Political: The set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes an institution or organization governing people. It refers to the framework and practices that govern a country and its citizens. It encompasses shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterize an institution or organization responsible for overseeing and directing the affairs of a nation. This system is responsible for establishing and enforcing laws, collecting taxes, and allocating resources to various sectors of society. The political system plays a crucial role in shaping the future of a country and its citizens.

Business: The set of values, conventions, or social practices associated with a particular field, activity, or societal characteristic.

Education: The integrated pattern of human knowledge and ?comprehensive the framework of human understanding, faith, and conduct that encompasses the ability to acquire, transmit, and apply knowledge across various domains. Proficiency in the appreciation and comprehension of fine arts, humanities, and foundational scientific disciplines, distinct from specialized technical and vocational skills.

Once again this is not an all-inclusive list. To even try to touch on a thorough list like that would fill quite a few volumes and still not do the job. For one reason the topic diversity is constantly changing / morphing.

For the purpose of these sessions, let’s take the above list and bring it into the context of current events and times.

Cultural Diversity: The current global events, as reported through various media outlets, highlight both the positive and negative impacts of cultural differences. On one hand, ongoing conflicts and protests worldwide demonstrate the negative effects of differing interpretations of cultural diversity. On the other hand, the ongoing support and aid provided by individuals from diverse backgrounds to these same conflicts illustrate the positive aspects of cultural diversity.

Political Diversity: In the United States, the current elections serve as a timely example of the significant impact political diversity is having on a nation’s society. The media coverage and conversations surrounding the elections are dominated by discussions on both sides, with negative discourse including frantic accusations, name-calling, and hate speech. This has resulted in the polarization of many households, turning friends into opponents and families into enemies.

On the positive side, the elections have also led to discussions aimed at better understanding the diverse beliefs and motivations of others. By engaging in these conversations, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of the topic at hand and the importance it holds for others. This can ultimately lead to a more informed and empathetic society.

?

Business: The subject matter encompasses two distinct facets: the corporate culture and the diversity of the organization's workforce. While the field of operation may influence the business culture to some extent, it is not the primary determinant. Companies with seemingly similar cultures and practices can exhibit vastly different behaviors and cultural norms due to the diversity of their markets, services, or products, as well as their unique focus and investment strategies in bringing these offerings to market. Lesson learned, don’t assume because a business is in the same category as another their cultures, values, and goals are the same. Taking the time to understand their differences, uniqueness that makes them diverse from another is usually the most important investment you can make.

Education: The debate surrounding the value of government run and higher education in today's workforce is becoming increasingly prevalent in discussions, articles, and topics. As the landscape of education encompasses a wide range of options, including home schooling, private schools, religious institutions, public schools, community colleges, and ivy-league universities, it is important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of each. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological and scientific advancements raises the question of whether formal education can keep up and remain competitive with industry experience.

The topic of discussion is the role of education in the development of common sense. A recent article posed the question of whether education is the key to success. To address this query, it is important to consider the experiences of successful business individuals such as Bill Gates and Paul Allen, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, Mark Zuckerberg, Richard Branson, Michael Dell, Larry Ellison, Bill Hewlett, Michael Blumberg, Andrew Carnegie, Ted Turner, and Ralph Lauren. While education can be a valuable tool in achieving success, it is important to recognize that there are many successful individuals who have not pursued or dropped out of higher education. As such, the option to not pursue higher education should also be considered.

?

Cultural diversity: is a highly impactful aspect of society, both positively and negatively. It serves as the foundation for how we perceive ourselves and our purpose in life. With the ongoing conflicts, riots, murders, and hostilities around the world, cultural diversity seems to be at the root of many issues. However, it is important to note that alongside these negative aspects, there are also charitable and selfless acts of kindness taking place globally.

To fully understand and appreciate cultural diversity, it is crucial to listen to and learn from those who hold different perspectives. While this does not necessarily mean agreeing, accepting, or adopting their views, it allows for a deeper understanding and acknowledgement of cultural differences. Once this understanding is achieved, it becomes a difference that one can live with and appreciate.

Finally, another key diversity area we intentionally did not cover in this Session because it is large and complex. So much so that it covers multiple chapters in our up-coming book by experts in each field, is Neural-Diversity, the way we are wired.

Personally, this is my favorite topic regarding diversity because for me, this explained a lot of questions I had most my life in a very positive, exciting manner.

(Teaser Alert!): Look to Session Six, Nural-Diversity in the workplace ??