Self Fulfilling Prophecy

Week 2

The concept of self-fulfilling prophecy essentially states that when one believes something to be true, even though it is at the time false, that person will alter his or her behavior to make the prior belief (the prophecy), reality. This idea, although it may seem a bit colorful, is actually quite logically based and has many practical applications.

First, because this is essentially a causal relationship, it is both documentable and falsifiable. The self-fulfilling prophecy essentially works as a type of construction. We are quite familiar with other constructions, such as cultural constructions, that are not actually true until a person or group of people make it true. In the same way simply by belief the self-fulfilling prophecy constructs a new reality.

Second, although this principle originates in sociology and has been most noticeably applied to education, the impacts of the theory can be applied in virtually any atmosphere. Because the theory essentially works off of a motivation principle any environment from business to military to anything in between can benefit from its efforts. The simple fact is, humans rarely work at 100% of their ability, and even further we many times direct our efforts at faulty goals. The self-fulfilling prophecy works to both increase our ability and redirect our pursuits to the goal of the prophecy.

Third, it is interesting how much of this theory takes place on an unconscious and peripherally processed level. As we all know, many of our common everyday decisions take place on a peripheral level and are based more on preconceptions than actual high order cognitive thought. Self-fulfilling prophecy essentially changes a preconception, thus resulting in completely changed behavior on the peripheral level. Although these decisions are usually small, when viewed in their sheer amount it is easy to see how powerful this concept can be. Furthermore, the conglomeration of these smaller peripheral decisions can progress to influence centrally processed decisions, thus creating a multiplied effect.

In conclusion, the impacts of this theory are easily established. It is important to note how this tool can be used both positively and negatively.

Communication Skills Test

Week 1

Discovery Health Quiz

Well, the Highlord scored 50 on the test, which is supposed to be a moderate level of efficiency in communication. However, I believe there is further analysis need to properly understand this exam. First, one must remember this small test, consisting of only ten questions in no way tests communication, only ones opinions of communication. Furthermore, there is some significant room for argumentation as to whether or not some qualities are actually important for communication. Take for instance, "People don't get what I am saying," there is no logical link between others not understanding and fauly communication.

Effective Communication Skills

This quiz is nothing more than an object lesson in poor education and closed minded thinking that the Highlord despises. It does not at all judge communication and furthermore the "best" answers are presented as fact without justification. Finally, if we really want to judge communication, said quiz fails misserably in both its presentation and lack of creating a dialogue.

Self-Assessment

By now it is of little surprise; however this "quiz" also fails misserably to the degree that it leaves the Highlord wondering exactly what communication scholars are doing. For example, take the first question, "I want to adapt my communication behavior to meet others’ expectations." Why would anyone want to change themselves to adapt to others "expectations" no matter how faulty they may be. Again, looking at question four, "I want to be involved in the conversations I have with other people," isn't involement required for a conversation?

The Proclomation of Intent

Hear the words of the Highlord, your Highlord! Although the highlord has no need to explain his actions, I Highlord Gunter, being rich and mercy and not lacking in patience, have decided to write down my reasoning for coming to this discussion of interpersonal communication. Hopefully through understanding the Highlord’s most excellent reasoning one will be better able to follow through his orders.

First, it must be understood that despite the Highlord’s great patience and wonderful personality, many of the common people are simply hard to understand. Hopefully by instituting this study into the common interpersonal communication the Highlord can better communicate with his people and understand their problems.

Second, the Highlord also hopes this summit will give him greater insight into the communications between his lord. Proper communication and understanding is essential between the Highlord’s closest companions. Precision and clarity must be maintained so the Highlord can have the best possible relationship with his compatriots.

Third, the Highlord is also expectantly awaiting the entertainment value of this class, specifically in discussing Air Conditioners. He expects this particular discussion will provide for multiple opportunities to gleefully shout “that’s what she said”

Fourth, the Highlord has also upheld the strongest value on scholasticism. Even if this knowledge does not have an immediate application, it is still knowledge and should be cherished, protected, and passed on. Through an abundance of knowledge will come prosperity and happiness.

Fifth, the Highlord also hopes this class will be of assistance during war and other contests abroad. Surely this knowledge will further the Highlord’s piercing insight and allow him to have a greater understanding of his adversaries that will lead to victory. Even the gay yankee atheist haters will bow before the Highlord’s grand schemes!

In conclusion, the Highlord has high expectations for this intellectual discourse, on practical, philosophical, and self-actualization levels. To be sure it would be better if the commoners and mercenaries were not present; however thanks to the Highlord’s great advisor and fellow lords this should not prove to be a significant problem. With this firm statement of intent onward my people... For Knowledge, For Victory, For the Highlord. DEUS VULT!