About Politics

The Amsterdam Red-light District asked:


According to a recent poll conducted by ComputerWorld, about
forty percent of the population believes that people can increase
their political power by going online. Hence, many academics
believe that people in western societies are becoming more
technologically educated in order to gain more influence in the
political sector. For example, Mr. Jeffrey Cole, a director at the
University of Southern California states, “This year, 6% of
regular Internet users said they have their own blogs, 16% said
they post pictures on the Web, and more than 10% maintain
their own web sites. In 2003, 3% of Internet users said they
blogged, 11% posted photos, and less than 9% maintained web
sites.”(ComputerWorld, 2005: 1) Thus, the question raised by
many is, “Is the Internet providing a more democratic and
participatory human society for the future?”
Mr. Cole agrees that the Internet plays a pivotal role in
providing a more equitable society that encourages
participatory development. He argues that due to the
younger generation having the ability to effectively
communicate through Internet forums, they are more
willing to express their political opinions online. The
younger generation also has the opportunity to engage
in academic discussions with people who are older and
have more experience, such as university lecturers, or
people who specialize in the area of discussion. Hence,
the Internet has clearly demonstrated its use in terms
of educating the younger generation for the future.
However, the positive benefits that can be gained through
the use of the Internet not only extends to young citizens,
but has also created an impact for those who are in the
workforce and are keen to learn more about their nation’s
political system.
Research has shown that many Americans are ‘surfing’ on the
Internet before a Federal Election to increase their knowledge
about political parties and their policies. Mr. Cole states, “The
Internet is no longer a marginal force in American politics – it
is quickly becoming the central force in empowering voters.
“(ComputerWorld, 2005:1). For example, the success of the
election of former Vermont Governor Howard Dean was mainly
due to the Internet, where online fundraising and lobbying was
used to ensure that people were adequately informed of the
parties’ policies.
Hence, due to the power of the Internet, although many would
argue that a person needs a certain level of knowledge and
expertise before they are able to master the Internet and its
search engines effectively, these people also agree that new
software and computer technicians are slowly changing
technological discourse in order to accommodate for people
who may not be as technically inclined. Although it is
generally agreed that the environment of cyberspace and the
purpose of using the Internet is constantly changing to suit
the needs of contemporary society, gaining information about
political parties and their policies still remains a top priority for
Internet users, especially those living in Western society.
Article written by M6.Net Web Hosting.

Tommy

Groshan Fabiola asked:


How powerful is politics in business? The connection between the two is often hard to explain, but somehow they are closely connected. Did you ever happen to lose a job or a promotion in favor of a person who hadn’t worked harder than you, or made more significant contributions that you? Was it that person’s character that got him/her the job, the fact that he/she knew everyone around there, or could it be that you simply did not understand the politics going on around that business?

When we hear the word ‘politics’, we naturally think of politicians, political parties, political strategies, and so forth. But have you ever considered the term ‘politics’ from a business point of view? When it comes to politics in business, the former means the difference between failure and success in the latter. And, more often than not, politics can define one’s personal career. You can enjoy benefits or suffer penalties as a result of the way politics influences every business. If you happen to be among the most appreciated employees, decisions may go your way, but if you are ‘invisible’ to your bosses or they have nothing but ill feelings for you, some penalties may be coming your way.

When it comes to business decisions or work environments, we often hear expressions such as ‘it was nothing but politics’ or ‘that place is very political’. What do these expressions mean? And how can you be part of the game, and know how to play your politics? When you have managed to build a strong relationship with your customers, you understand the business thoroughly, and you are respected throughout the organization, but your superiors still think that you’re not doing well enough, this could be a clear example of people using politics to drive their own personal agenda.

It’s only fair to say that there’s no business without politics, and that its level of sophistication depends on the size of the organization. It’s understandable that the complexity of politics is proportional with the size of the company, because, after all, politics means power, and the more players are involved in the game, the more there is at stake.

Like everywhere else, we can speak of bad politics and good politics in business. Good politics refer to building strong networks at all the levels of that company or organization, spending time with employees from all levels, having a solid understanding of the keys to the success of the organization, and so forth. Good politics in business is about sharing information and encouraging other people to do the same thing. Bad politics refers to exactly the opposite. In the end it all comes down to driving your own agenda, as mentioned before. However, deft leadership should not be confused with bad politics in business. The two are very different.

Unfortunately, it seems that bad politics has got its share of businesses, and we see more of that than of good politics, because there are more bad politicians than there are good, and the former still continue to make the rule. But, in the end, it is up to you how you play the game.

If you want to find more information on different business or politics subjects please visit http://www.articletimesonline.com

Thelma

Sid asked:


Lately I’ve taken to an intrest in politics. I love to debate and many people have often told me I should think of that as a future career. I’m in the 11th grade and I would like to know more about what my choices are for a potential career.
If you know of any websites that can help, or if you have any advice to give me please just add it in your answer.

All help is appreciated.

Wanda

Amos Aharoni asked:


From skillful caricaturists to passionate crusaders for political causes, Israeli artists have throughout history in one form or another created a political work of art. Whether biblical stories of Jewish bravery and martyrdom, the birth of Zionism or more modern examples of courage, political art has always played a part in the soul of Israeli creations of art. At the same time, even in modern times of today artists are often scared to link their creations to history and politics.

In the following, this article examines four aspects analyzing the issue of art & politics.

Artists & Politics

The first aspect addressing the subject of artists and politics examines the extent of public involvement by Israeli artists in taking a political standpoint expressed through their art paintings.

From a democratic point of view which seeks to protect freedom of expression, it is important that art work tackle political issues and influence public debate

However, the problem in Israel for artists who want to express an anti-establishment view is the concern over the fact that the establishment represents their main source of support and financing. While those who want to back up the establishment are not doing so out of fear of being accused by their artist friends that their creative work is influenced by economic reasons. As such it can be concluded that in our time the majority of Israeli artists are “fearful” when it comes to touching upon political issues.

Politicians & Art

In the second aspect addressing politicians and art, I examine the involvement and understanding of political leaders in the creations of art. There is no doubt, that an artistic point of perspective opens horizons contributing to the development of a more open-minded way of thinking.

For this reason, Israeli leaders - whose personalities are often channeled through the security and/or party platform – should show interest in the arts as a tool for personal development which can widen their world view.

From a public point of view, a politician, who has knowledge and proven interest in cultural issues, will be considered as having preferable characteristics of experience and knowledge.

Politics in Art

Addressing the third aspect of politics in art, the following questions I believe are at the heart of the issue: To what extent does the political and public activity of the artist influence the artistic evaluation of his creations in the present and the future? If the official establishment wants the prestige of a particular artist can it increase or decrease the value of his art?

Art in Politics

In the fourth aspect of art in politics I raise the question if to a certain extent there is an artist at work in the political making? Can we make the assertion that certain people have a political-artistic talent which makes it easier for them to succeed in the political arena?

In this context, I very much believe, that in order to be a player in the political arena winning public opinion, a leader needs to be creative and have strong interpersonal skills combining artistic elements.

Megan

The Amsterdam Red-light District asked:


I spent years in deep denial about office politics. I flatly
refused to believe it was necessary to “play” politics in
order to succeed. And – with a symbolic if not actual
stamp of my foot – if it was necessary, then I’d sacrifice
my career on the altar of my disdain!
Many people confound themselves with the same denial and the
same definition of office politics: bad, deceitful, backstabbing,
brown-nosing – all of the slimy things we often think of, both in
and out of the office, when we hear the word “politics.”
Many years later, and after teaching myself and others to
navigate successfully through a lot of political undercurrents,
my viewpoint has turned around completely. Successful
personal politics, both at home and in the office, is nothing
more – and certainly nothing less – than the art of
understanding and practicing meaningful, alert, and complete
communication.
Let’s look at these three components individually.
Meaningful communication has a wide scope, ranging from
avoiding the use of jargon and overly technical explanations,
to simply being sure we’re giving our audience what they need.
It means giving a useful answer that takes the questioner’s
context into consideration, instead of one that adheres only to
the letter of what was asked. It encompasses compassion,
understanding when someone needs help even when he or
she hasn’t said so.
Alert communication means that we’re paying attention to what’s
going on around us. When someone does, asks for, or objects
to something, the alert communicator has a pretty good idea
what’s behind those actions: we understand the context within
which the person is operating (or at a minimum, we recognize
that this context is there). When we understand the context –
whether or not we agree with it – we can participate in a
solution where everyone wins, or at least no one loses. When
we are alert to communication on all levels – verbal and
nonverbal, including action or lack of action – we can prepare
for whatever happens, instead of being startled by it.
Complete communication is akin to “the truth, the whole truth,
and nothing but the truth.” It means leaving nothing out – but it
doesn’t mean using the truth as a blunt instrument to make
others feel or look bad. It means providing the context when
we ask for something, so that others can understand the why
behind our request, and see how their response fits into a
bigger picture. And it means saying the important things to
friends and family instead of assuming that they know how
we feel.
Just like any tool, political ability can be turned to good
uses or bad. I can use a hammer to smash a priceless
piece of art, or I can use it to tap a finishing nail into a
beautiful piece of furniture. In either case, it’s not the
hammer that caused the end result; it’s what I’ve done
with the hammer.
Likewise, I can use my political ability to undermine others,
turn their ideas into mine, and inflict guilt on anyone who
fails to meet my expectations. But I’d much rather take
the skills I’ve learned – and they can be learned, though
they’re not often taught in today’s schools – to help others
succeed, applaud their achievements, and be clear about
what I want and need so others can give me the gift of
helping.
Article written by Grace L. Judson.

Rachel

Aaron B asked:


I need to do an essay on cultural criticism and the 3 points i have to make are feminism, politics, and religion. How are those topics emphasized in the book and/or where can i read about these topics in the book?

Julia

James Lutz asked:


We’ve all heard the old saying “Never discuss sex, money or politics”. Even conversation between good friends can end in an argument when discussing politics.

We have conservatives, liberals, democrats, republicans, independents, moderates… Everyone sees the world a certain way, and how we should go forth in improving our great nation. You would think it would be easy to talk about these things, discuss and come to agreements. Hardly! More often than not, these discussions turn into arguments, and at times get very heated.

For thousands of years there has been fighting over politics, many of which lead to wars. I we all agreed, it would obviously be a perfect world with no wars, but sometimes the political fighting gets fierce and things get ugly.

This is not only typical amongst our politicians but amongst every day people too. Seems less and less are willing to compromise when it comes to their political beliefs and the country is divided. We have world leaders arguing over politics, then we have the US politicians going at it, then state politics… you get the point, it all crumbles down, all the way to you and I.

The keys to staying cool when debating or discussing politics is to leave your emotions in check, leave room for compromise and/or discussion & realize that the other person believes in what they’re saying as well and remain respectful.

The best way to win a debate is to do so in a civil manner, presenting facts and explaining your point of view. Many times when points can’t get across, it quickly turns the debate into an argument. It’s best at that point to get back on topic, or try to move onto the next topic.

I have owned a few political on-line websites, been members & have moderated as well. Of all the forums I have participated on, the political scenery has to be the hardest for all of those involved. It’s a constant quagmire and the in-fighting never seems to cease. The best you can do is take the higher ground, remain impartial and apply rules equally.

Ruben