Answer exam questionA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Answer exam questionA - Essay Example This notion postulates that the nuances of HRM and the applicability of its associated theories vary drastically on a cultural basis (Brewster et al. 2011: p2). Therefore, the pivotal significance of cultural observations in international management practices not only extends to the appreciation of national culture and its impact on business operations but also to the aspect of managerial behaviour (Crawley et al. 2013: p76). In assessing the impact of an understanding of culture and cultural difference on the behaviour of a western manager assuming an executive position at a non-western organization several factors must be examined. The commencement of managerial roles in an unfamiliar national culture is welcomed by cultural shock which may result in a failure to meet objectives and goals that accompany the position (Crawley et al. 2013: p77). However, a thorough comprehension of culture implies that a manager’s attitude towards colleagues would be marked by respect, sensiti vity, consideration and an understanding of critical aspects such as religion, ethnicity and race when managing a diverse workforce (Crawley et al. 2013: p77). More importantly in the context of the example under discussion, the assignment of a western manager within a non-western organisation presents the challenges of unique role demands posed by cultural factors. In this scenario, an effective understanding of role demands assists both managerial behaviour and performance (Dowling 2008: p193) given the existence of role clarity in defining what is expected of the individual within the organization (Dowling 2008: p194). While, it is important for a western manager to recognize the significance of specific characteristics related to cultural differences when performing his duties at a non-western organization, it is the successful application of relevant leadership theories that lies at the core of effective HRM. The contemporary leadership theories that have been applied by resear chers on assessments of culture and cross-cultural examinations are that of transformational leadership and charismatic leadership. An investigation into the Global Leadership and Organizational Behaviour Effectiveness (GLOBE) proposed that the relationship between manager behaviour and cultural implications in Indian organizations was such that workers favoured charisma and action orientation in an ideal leader (Robbins 2001: p389). This observation implies that a western manager having extensive information about culture and cultural differences would adopt the characteristics of a charismatic leader, as research shows that charismatic leaders can be made (Robbins 2001: p374). Additionally, formulating a vision, a clear long-term strategy and achievable yet inspiring goals are constituents of successful charismatic leadership. Furthermore, it is understood that characteristics of Indian culture include collectivism and the adoption of a humane approach. Therefore, the managerial b ehaviour of a western executive must integrate the attributes of transformational leadership by inspiring workers through communication of goals and the provision of personal attention, coaching and advise (Robbins 2001: p377. The latter is an indication of respect, understanding, sensitivity and consideration which is much valued in non-western nations such as India. In conclusion, an extensive comprehension of culture is a factor that is highly favourable for a manager who is

How the ideal Renaissance space continued to be used or was radically Essay

How the ideal Renaissance space continued to be used or was radically challenged in the following centuries - Essay Example Filippo Brunelleschi and Leon Battista Alberti later used linear perspective. Significance of expressions, postures and proportion increased. This approach of understanding and learning in art was said to be the 'humanist' approach. Humanism emphasized on the right of a man to reason out his beliefs and thereby, made it important for him to be an individual who realized his potential. There was a visible return to the state of naturalism. Such changes mainly took place in some parts of Europe, especially, Flanders and Italy. (Early renaissance art, 2008) The fall of Constantinople in 1453 also indirectly contributed to such changes in Italian architecture, literature and paintings. This event led to the migration of scholars to Rome. These scholars were interested in learning of their new environment, which led to their research about arts and art techniques prevalent there. They needed the intellectual knowledge, akin to ancient times. Filippo Brunelleschi made use of mathematical coordinates system rather than irrational forms and measurements. Leon Battista Alberti added to this approach, a method of using a wider social and urbane context, laying emphasis on walls rather than points in his buildings. (Early Renaissance Architecture, 2008) Next came the concept of Neo-Platonism. ... According to him, the beauty exists when all parts are in harmony, such that nothing can be added to or taken from it, without spoiling the whole. One of the famous Aristotelians was Leonardo da Vinci. High Renaissance generally started with the painting of The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Painting had a sort of decisive period in its style. This period was when there was a mass convergence of talent in the same area. The characteristics of the High Renaissance paintings were clearly seen in those of the Three Big Names of this period - Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Although these geniuses deserve their fame every bit given, there were also many others with staggering talents. (Finearttouch, 2008) During this period, the Humanism concept was replaced by Mannerism. The importance given to perspective, balances and proportions earlier was then given to depicting expressions in art. Pontormo showed the troubled expressions clearly and another citation can be El Greco showing the intensities of emotions. This was definitely maturity over the serene faces and gestures of Piero della Francesca and the calm Virgins of Raphael. The pleasant mood in Giorgione and young Titian also reflect the above idea. In The Last Supper, Leonardo recreated the earlier traditional theme in a new style. Christ remained a nucleus of serenity while the others showed animated expressions and wonder about who was the traitor among them. This marked the start of Mannerism in paintings. The ever famous Mona Lisa also shows the ingenuity of this artist - the meaning of her mysterious smile still being unknown to us. Leonardo was the creator of what was known as the atmospheric perspective.