Research/Summary Paper Select a topic which deals with a current situation relating to conflict. It is expected that your topic will be as current as of yr. 2019-2020, and has had an effect on our eco

Analyzing Communication Conflict: Ethical, Moral, and Religious Insights in "The Columnist’s Brown Bag"

Jennifer Bacuylima

St. Thomas Uuniversity

Conflict & Conflict Resolution SOC-460D-OL1

Dr. Ruth Doriscar-Cook

Introduction

Communication conflicts often arise from deeply held values, beliefs, and cultural norms.

Effective conflict resolution requires understanding both explicit and implicit meanings in interpersonal interactions.

This paper analyzes the conflict in "The Columnist’s Brown Bag" through communication theory, emphasizing moral reasoning and religious insights.

First Main Point: Communication Conflict Theory

A. Folger, Poole, and Stutman (2021) emphasize that conflicts often stem from differing interpretations of intentions and values.

1. The columnist's actions suggest unspoken personal values conflicting with workplace norms.

2. Misinterpretation of the columnist’s actions due to inadequate communication.

B. Theories of meta-communication suggest misunderstandings escalate conflicts (Folger, Poole, & Stutman, 2021).

1. Colleagues misinterpreted the columnist's behavior, leading to escalating conflict.

2. The lack of explicit verbal communication about the columnist’s intentions increased colleagues' confusion.

C. Cultural differences and personal biases can further complicate conflict interpretation and resolution (Folger, Poole, & Stutman, 2021).

1. Cultural background differences among colleagues can lead to varying interpretations of the columnist's behavior.

2. Personal biases and preconceived notions influenced how colleagues reacted to the columnist’s behavior.

Second Main Point: Moral and Ethical Considerations

A. Ethical theories emphasize understanding intentions behind actions to resolve conflict effectively (Adams, Dibble, & Lewis, 2020).

1. Ethical communication principles advocate transparency; withholding intentions complicates conflict.

2. Clear communication of intentions fosters trust and ethical clarity.

B. Morality in communication requires balancing personal values and societal expectations (Adams, Dibble, & Lewis, 2020).

1. The columnist’s choice reflects individual autonomy conflicting with collective expectations.

2. Societal norms can pressure individuals to suppress personal ethical beliefs.

C. Ethical conflict resolution should involve fairness and respect for differing views (Adams, Dibble, & Lewis, 2020).

1. Fair dialogue among involved parties encourages resolution without escalating conflict.

2. Mutual respect promotes constructive discussions and moral alignment.

Third Main Point: Religious and Spiritual Insights

A. Religious doctrines frequently highlight forgiveness and reconciliation as keys to conflict resolution (Adams, Dibble, & Lewis, 2020).

1. Christian teachings on forgiveness could provide guidance to resolving the columnist’s conflict through understanding and reconciliation.

2. Forgiveness practices encourage healing and prevent further conflict.

B. Support: Spiritual perspectives underscore empathy and compassion (Adams, Dibble, & Lewis, 2020).

1. Applying empathy could help colleagues understand the columnist’s underlying personal motivations.

2. Compassionate listening facilitates mutual understanding and peaceful resolutions.

C. Religious and spiritual practices often promote peaceful dialogue and patience (Adams, Dibble, & Lewis, 2020).

1. Meditation and prayer can help individuals approach conflicts calmly.

2. Spiritual reflections emphasize patience, providing space for thoughtful responses.

Conclusion

Effective communication in conflict involves a nuanced understanding of moral, ethical, and religious contexts.

Conflicts arise from misunderstandings, ethical principles inform resolution strategies, and religious insights promote empathy and forgiveness.

By deeply analyzing the columnist’s behavior through these lenses, one can better understand the complex nature of communication conflicts and potential resolutions.

References

Adams, C., Dibble, E., & Lewis, K. (2020). The Human Experience: From Human Being to Human Doing. OpenSLCC.

Folger, J., Poole, M. S., & Stutman, R. K. (2021). Communication and Conflict. Pearson Education.

Rahim, M. A. (2022). Managing Conflict in Organizations: Transactional Analysis and Communication. Journal of Business Ethics, 178(1), 45-57.

Smith, J. A., & Osborn, M. (2021). Interpersonal Communication Dynamics and Ethical Decision-Making. Communication Studies, 72(3), 350-367.

Johnson, K. M. (2020). Cultural Competence in Conflict Resolution: An Ethical Perspective. Conflict Resolution Quarterly, 37(4), 329-348.