There is no right or wrong way to define diversity. Each of the definitions by Marilyn Loden, Anita Rowe and Lee Gardenswartz, R. Roosevelt Thomas, JR, Myrtle P. Bell, David A. Thomas and Robin J. Ely, and Michalle E. Mor Barak present unique points. However, one element which all these professionals can agree on is that diversity is complex and must be managed in order to unleash success in the workforce, as well as universal harmony. Although each professional present valid points, Anita Row and Lee Gardenswartz’s interpretation of diversity appeared the most valid. Before explaining why I favor Row and Gardenswartz’s definition, I will explain my thoughts on the various other viewpoints presented. In my opinion, individuals are judged
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I agree that diversity is a “mixture” of “similarities and differences” (CanÌas, Sondak 2014). In reality diversity is truly boundless. However, as Roosevelt stated, if there are no boundaries to diversity than organizations would assume their workforce is diverse. Since these organization would assume their workforce is diverse, they would fail to hire minorities. By human nature, individuals are drawn to others with similarities. Hence, when applying the definition of diversity, boundaries and guidelines must be …show more content…
A person’s job, where they live, their personal habits and education all affect their personality. Each and every factor Row and Gardenswartz list in their four dimensions alter an individual's personality, beliefs and behaviors. It could be said that personality is the root of what makes everyone different. This definition stresses that all humans are created equal, but it is the four dimensions which create uniqueness. In a way the four dimensions explain why diversity occurs, while setting a guideline for how people can become more inclusive. These guidelines are highly comprehensive, yet broad enough to include minor factors by which a person may be discriminated against. In addition, I appreciate how these dimensions can be translated into an everyday application; not just in a workplace setting. Segregation, racism, and exclusion all occur due to our personalities. I live under the assumption that noone is born judgmental (ie. racist, sexist, etcetera). It is the environment which a person grows up in and surround themselves with that create these tendencies. Overall, Rowe and Gardenswartz’s definition of diversity is my favorite because it recognizes everyone is equal and the only aspect that makes us different (and creates judgement) is
I agree that diversity is a “mixture” of “similarities and differences” (CanÌas, Sondak 2014). In reality diversity is truly boundless. However, as Roosevelt stated, if there are no boundaries to diversity than organizations would assume their workforce is diverse. Since these organization would assume their workforce is diverse, they would fail to hire minorities. By human nature, individuals are drawn to others with similarities. Hence, when applying the definition of diversity, boundaries and guidelines must be …show more content…
A person’s job, where they live, their personal habits and education all affect their personality. Each and every factor Row and Gardenswartz list in their four dimensions alter an individual's personality, beliefs and behaviors. It could be said that personality is the root of what makes everyone different. This definition stresses that all humans are created equal, but it is the four dimensions which create uniqueness. In a way the four dimensions explain why diversity occurs, while setting a guideline for how people can become more inclusive. These guidelines are highly comprehensive, yet broad enough to include minor factors by which a person may be discriminated against. In addition, I appreciate how these dimensions can be translated into an everyday application; not just in a workplace setting. Segregation, racism, and exclusion all occur due to our personalities. I live under the assumption that noone is born judgmental (ie. racist, sexist, etcetera). It is the environment which a person grows up in and surround themselves with that create these tendencies. Overall, Rowe and Gardenswartz’s definition of diversity is my favorite because it recognizes everyone is equal and the only aspect that makes us different (and creates judgement) is