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Crisis Opportunism
Crisis is any event that is, or expected to lead to, an unstable and dangerous situation affecting an individual, group, community or whole society. Crises are deemed to be negative changes in the security, economic, political, societal or environmental affairs, especially when they occur abruptly, with little or no warning. More loosely, it is a term meaning 'a testing time' or an 'emergency event'.
Crisis has four defining characteristics.
1. unexpected
2. creates uncertainty
3. is seen as a threat to important goals
4. need for change
Opportunism is the conscious policy and practice of taking selfish advantage of circumstances, with little regard for principles.The term can be applied to individuals, groups, organizations, styles, behaviours, and trends.
Opportunism often has a strong negative moral connotation, it may also be defined more neutrally as putting self-interest before other interests when there is an opportunity to do so, or flexibly adapting to changing circumstances to maximize self-interest (usually in a way that negates a principle previously held).
Opportunism is sometimes also defined as the ability to capitalize on the mistakes of others: to utilize opportunities created by the errors, weaknesses or distractions of opponents to one's own advantage. In a war situation or crisis, this may be regarded as justifiable, but in a civilized situation it may be regarded as unprincipled.
In choosing or utilizing opportunities, opportunism is most likely to occur:
1. where people can make the most gains for themselves at the least cost to themselves.
2. where relevant internal or external controls on their behaviour are absent.
4. where people are pressured to choose and act.
Crisis Opportunism
People react to a crisis differently as opposed to an everyday problem. For example, a major international airport might have been begging for more money for security and for years been held back by the accounting department. Suddenly, there is evidence of an imminent terrorism threat. Now there is a crisis. The accounts department panics in the face of questions such as “Why was saving money more important than safety?” Instantly the Finance Director pledges more money and any support required. The Head of Security gets his additional staff and x-ray scanners. His position in the company is elevated and his personal power expanded. People now jump when he calls, after all, this is the crisis! No one asks: is this a generated crisis?
The question that should be asked is: “Was there really a crisis (threat), who revealed it and who benefits from the actions taken as a result?”
Crisis creation as a tactic is commonplace and it is surprising how often it isn’t recognized and how often it works. Some examples include:
The above points are all classed as a “False Crisis”. They are not an actual crisis yet. This type implies that a crisis exists when it does not. Quite often they’re an exaggeration or simply not true at all. This is the most common form of the tactic. However, the very serious and ruthless tactician often ensures a genuine crisis is discovered or created.
For example: An unethical politician, whose political ticket to be elected a city mayor is “Anti-Crime / Safer Streets”, might be tempted to ensure that there was significant civil unrest in the weeks leading up to the election. In short, the creation of a “Real Crisis”. Can this be done? Yes – quite easily. The release of some clearly racist pamphlets in the appropriate part of the city could swiftly trigger race riots. A power failure in a deprived area would stimulate looting. A few drive-by shootings in a wealthy suburb would create panic – some wounded lawyers or actors would be best. The “surprise” discovery of an “allegedly” hidden report that claimed violence was actually up 50% would make front page news. And … there are plenty of worse things that could be done too.
A real example of how this tactic might have been used is the 2003 Iraq war. The USA and Britain wanted to remove Saddam Hussein from power. A crisis was needed and generated. The existence, and devastating threat, of WMD’s (weapons of mass destruction) suddenly gripped the media. Saddam had them for sure – everyone was in danger. War was approved!
U.S. President George W. Bush declared the objective of the invasion was "to disarm Iraq of weapons of mass destruction, to end Saddam Hussein's support for terrorism, and to free the Iraqi people." (Wikipedia 2007)
Well, Saddam fell, the region was destablised and surprise, surprise – no weapons of mass destruction were ever found. Interestingly, both Tony Blair (Prime Minister of Britain) and George Bush (President of the USA) survived the revelation. Was it tactical? You’ll have to make up your own mind.
A third way to use a crisis is to wait for one to happen and then be prepared to capitalize on it. This is known as an “Opportunistic Crisis”. This is a political favourite as the tactician need not cross-the-line into what is currently accepted as unethical behaviour. Also, they probably won’t have to wait too long.
Why does this common tactic work so often? People respond differently when faced with a crisis and often make quick and over reactive decisions. Fear is an important factor. On the surface, this is not unexpected as a crisis usually requires rapid action. A burning building, a terrorism threat and even negative accusations in the press all require a speedy response. The emergency services can’t afford the time to have a three day workshop to discuss the problem of the burning building and create team consensus about how to fight the fire. They have to act immediately if life and property is to be saved. It is for this reason that many companies even establish a crisis management team.
It seems to be part of human nature that the majority of people dislike being involved in a crisis even though those same humans tend to be fascinated by the same subject if it is happening far away and is no direct threat to them.
From a tactical point of view, the creation of a crisis can be a powerful tool to manipulate opinion but a word of caution, use it too often and people will start resisting or recognizing what you’re doing. Once that happens, your reputation is gone forever. Most importantly, train yourself to recognise this tactic when it is being used. It really is everywhere – just read today’s newspaper.
Crisis has four defining characteristics.
1. unexpected
2. creates uncertainty
3. is seen as a threat to important goals
4. need for change
Opportunism is the conscious policy and practice of taking selfish advantage of circumstances, with little regard for principles.The term can be applied to individuals, groups, organizations, styles, behaviours, and trends.
Opportunism often has a strong negative moral connotation, it may also be defined more neutrally as putting self-interest before other interests when there is an opportunity to do so, or flexibly adapting to changing circumstances to maximize self-interest (usually in a way that negates a principle previously held).
Opportunism is sometimes also defined as the ability to capitalize on the mistakes of others: to utilize opportunities created by the errors, weaknesses or distractions of opponents to one's own advantage. In a war situation or crisis, this may be regarded as justifiable, but in a civilized situation it may be regarded as unprincipled.
In choosing or utilizing opportunities, opportunism is most likely to occur:
1. where people can make the most gains for themselves at the least cost to themselves.
2. where relevant internal or external controls on their behaviour are absent.
4. where people are pressured to choose and act.
Crisis Opportunism
People react to a crisis differently as opposed to an everyday problem. For example, a major international airport might have been begging for more money for security and for years been held back by the accounting department. Suddenly, there is evidence of an imminent terrorism threat. Now there is a crisis. The accounts department panics in the face of questions such as “Why was saving money more important than safety?” Instantly the Finance Director pledges more money and any support required. The Head of Security gets his additional staff and x-ray scanners. His position in the company is elevated and his personal power expanded. People now jump when he calls, after all, this is the crisis! No one asks: is this a generated crisis?
“CREATE OR GENERATE A CRISIS, REAL OR FALSE, SO OTHERS WILL PANIC AND GIVE YOU WHAT YOU WANT.” ~ The Opportunist
The question that should be asked is: “Was there really a crisis (threat), who revealed it and who benefits from the actions taken as a result?”
Crisis creation as a tactic is commonplace and it is surprising how often it isn’t recognized and how often it works. Some examples include:
- The word is that the Chairman (President) is furious that this hasn't been done and he / she is considering a management shake-up.
- I’m thinking of leaving you and taking the kids if you don’t listen to me.
- The building may not be safe we need funds to improve crowd control.
- The news media will want to know if our suppliers in India use child labor. We should consider switching manufacturers. I can recommend some people.
- Your kids are sick and hungry, we need money immediately.
The above points are all classed as a “False Crisis”. They are not an actual crisis yet. This type implies that a crisis exists when it does not. Quite often they’re an exaggeration or simply not true at all. This is the most common form of the tactic. However, the very serious and ruthless tactician often ensures a genuine crisis is discovered or created.
For example: An unethical politician, whose political ticket to be elected a city mayor is “Anti-Crime / Safer Streets”, might be tempted to ensure that there was significant civil unrest in the weeks leading up to the election. In short, the creation of a “Real Crisis”. Can this be done? Yes – quite easily. The release of some clearly racist pamphlets in the appropriate part of the city could swiftly trigger race riots. A power failure in a deprived area would stimulate looting. A few drive-by shootings in a wealthy suburb would create panic – some wounded lawyers or actors would be best. The “surprise” discovery of an “allegedly” hidden report that claimed violence was actually up 50% would make front page news. And … there are plenty of worse things that could be done too.
A real example of how this tactic might have been used is the 2003 Iraq war. The USA and Britain wanted to remove Saddam Hussein from power. A crisis was needed and generated. The existence, and devastating threat, of WMD’s (weapons of mass destruction) suddenly gripped the media. Saddam had them for sure – everyone was in danger. War was approved!
U.S. President George W. Bush declared the objective of the invasion was "to disarm Iraq of weapons of mass destruction, to end Saddam Hussein's support for terrorism, and to free the Iraqi people." (Wikipedia 2007)
Well, Saddam fell, the region was destablised and surprise, surprise – no weapons of mass destruction were ever found. Interestingly, both Tony Blair (Prime Minister of Britain) and George Bush (President of the USA) survived the revelation. Was it tactical? You’ll have to make up your own mind.
A third way to use a crisis is to wait for one to happen and then be prepared to capitalize on it. This is known as an “Opportunistic Crisis”. This is a political favourite as the tactician need not cross-the-line into what is currently accepted as unethical behaviour. Also, they probably won’t have to wait too long.
PEOPLE RESPOND DIFFERENTLY WHEN FACED WITH A CRISIS AND OFTEN MAKE QUICK AND OVER REACTIVE DECISIONS. ~ The Opportunist
Why does this common tactic work so often? People respond differently when faced with a crisis and often make quick and over reactive decisions. Fear is an important factor. On the surface, this is not unexpected as a crisis usually requires rapid action. A burning building, a terrorism threat and even negative accusations in the press all require a speedy response. The emergency services can’t afford the time to have a three day workshop to discuss the problem of the burning building and create team consensus about how to fight the fire. They have to act immediately if life and property is to be saved. It is for this reason that many companies even establish a crisis management team.
It seems to be part of human nature that the majority of people dislike being involved in a crisis even though those same humans tend to be fascinated by the same subject if it is happening far away and is no direct threat to them.
From a tactical point of view, the creation of a crisis can be a powerful tool to manipulate opinion but a word of caution, use it too often and people will start resisting or recognizing what you’re doing. Once that happens, your reputation is gone forever. Most importantly, train yourself to recognise this tactic when it is being used. It really is everywhere – just read today’s newspaper.
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Confidence - Faith - Love
Those who love you are not fooled by mistakes you have made or dark images you hold about yourself. They remember your beauty when you feel ugly; your wholeness when you are broken; your innocence when you feel guilty; and your purpose when you are confused.
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Max Ehrmann - Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
...
Hydrogen Peroxide
Natural & Effective Anti-viral, Anti-bacterial & Anti-fungal
The following was written by Becky R. of Indiana (a doctor's wife);
"I would like to tell you of the benefits of that plain little ol' bottle of 3% peroxide you can get for under $1.00 at any drug store.
My husband has been in the medical field for over 36 years, and most doctors don't tell you about peroxide, or they would lose millions of dollars.
1. Take one capful (the little white cap that comes with the bottle) and hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out. (I do it when I bathe or shower.) No more canker sores and your teeth will be whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash.
2. Let your toothbrushes soak in a cup of peroxide to keep them free of germs.
3. Clean your counters, table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe, or spray it on the counters.
4. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour peroxide on it to kill salmonella and other bacteria.
5. I had fungus on my feet for years - until I sprayed a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water on them (especially the toes) every night and let dry.
6. Soak any infections or cuts in 3% peroxide for five to ten minutes several times a day. My husband has seen gangrene that would not heal with any medicine, but was healed by soaking in peroxide.
7. Put two capfuls into a douche to prevent yeast infections. I had chronic yeast infections until I tried this once or twice a week.
8. Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water and keep it in every bathroom to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will.
9. Tilt your head back and spray into nostrils with your 50/50 mixture whenever you have a cold, plugged sinus. It will bubble and help to kill the bacteria. Hold for a few minutes then blow your nose into a tissue.
10. If you have a terrible toothache and cannot get to a dentist right away, put a capful of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for ten minutes several times a day. The pain will lessen greatly.
11. And of course, if you like a natural look to your hair, spray the 50/50 solution on your wet hair after a shower and comb it through. You will not have the peroxide burnt blonde hair like the hair dye packages, but more natural highlights if your hair is a light brown, faddish, or dirty blonde. It also lightens gradually so it's not a drastic change.
12. Put half a bottle of peroxide in your bath to help rid boils, fungus, or other skin infections.
13. You can also add a cup of peroxide instead of bleach to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them. If there is blood on clothing, pour directly on the soiled spot. Let it sit for a minute, then rub it and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary. I could go on and on. It is a little brown bottle no home should be without! With prices of most necessities rising, I'm glad there's away to save tons of money in such a simple, healthy manner!"
14. I use peroxide to clean my mirrors with, there is no smearing, which is why I love it so much for this.
Hydrogen Peroxide is described as an effective anti-viral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal, and can be used for anthrax decontamination. This sort of supports the effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide, don't you think?
Also: your body makes hydrogen peroxide to fight infection which must be present for our immune system to function correctly. White blood cells are known as Leukocytes. A sub-class of Leukocytes called Neutrophils produce hydrogen peroxide as the first line of defense against toxins, parasites, bacteria, viruses and yeast.
Simply put, it is the oxygenation of the body. Sickness and tumors are generally oxygen-hating growths which thrive in oxygen-poor bodies.
15. Gargle with hydrogen peroxide, put drops in the ear and nose to end colds, flu, chronic sinusitis (including polyps], and infections.
16. Use as a vegetable wash or soak to kill bacteria and neutralize chemicals.
17. Disinfect your dishwasher or refrigerator.
18. Use it on trees and plants as a natural fungicide, insecticide, and as a weed killer.
19. Clean with hydrogen peroxide when your house becomes a biohazard after its invaded by toxic mold, such as those with water damage.
Throughout the world hydrogen peroxide is used instead of chlorine as a safer and eco-friendly municipal water purifier. Some use H2O2 in pools and spas.
The following was written by Becky R. of Indiana (a doctor's wife);
"I would like to tell you of the benefits of that plain little ol' bottle of 3% peroxide you can get for under $1.00 at any drug store.
My husband has been in the medical field for over 36 years, and most doctors don't tell you about peroxide, or they would lose millions of dollars.
1. Take one capful (the little white cap that comes with the bottle) and hold in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out. (I do it when I bathe or shower.) No more canker sores and your teeth will be whiter without expensive pastes. Use it instead of mouthwash.
2. Let your toothbrushes soak in a cup of peroxide to keep them free of germs.
3. Clean your counters, table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe, or spray it on the counters.
4. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, pour peroxide on it to kill salmonella and other bacteria.
5. I had fungus on my feet for years - until I sprayed a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water on them (especially the toes) every night and let dry.
6. Soak any infections or cuts in 3% peroxide for five to ten minutes several times a day. My husband has seen gangrene that would not heal with any medicine, but was healed by soaking in peroxide.
7. Put two capfuls into a douche to prevent yeast infections. I had chronic yeast infections until I tried this once or twice a week.
8. Fill a spray bottle with a 50/50 mixture of peroxide and water and keep it in every bathroom to disinfect without harming your septic system like bleach or most other disinfectants will.
9. Tilt your head back and spray into nostrils with your 50/50 mixture whenever you have a cold, plugged sinus. It will bubble and help to kill the bacteria. Hold for a few minutes then blow your nose into a tissue.
10. If you have a terrible toothache and cannot get to a dentist right away, put a capful of 3% peroxide into your mouth and hold it for ten minutes several times a day. The pain will lessen greatly.
11. And of course, if you like a natural look to your hair, spray the 50/50 solution on your wet hair after a shower and comb it through. You will not have the peroxide burnt blonde hair like the hair dye packages, but more natural highlights if your hair is a light brown, faddish, or dirty blonde. It also lightens gradually so it's not a drastic change.
12. Put half a bottle of peroxide in your bath to help rid boils, fungus, or other skin infections.
13. You can also add a cup of peroxide instead of bleach to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them. If there is blood on clothing, pour directly on the soiled spot. Let it sit for a minute, then rub it and rinse with cold water. Repeat if necessary. I could go on and on. It is a little brown bottle no home should be without! With prices of most necessities rising, I'm glad there's away to save tons of money in such a simple, healthy manner!"
14. I use peroxide to clean my mirrors with, there is no smearing, which is why I love it so much for this.
Hydrogen Peroxide is described as an effective anti-viral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal, and can be used for anthrax decontamination. This sort of supports the effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide, don't you think?
Also: your body makes hydrogen peroxide to fight infection which must be present for our immune system to function correctly. White blood cells are known as Leukocytes. A sub-class of Leukocytes called Neutrophils produce hydrogen peroxide as the first line of defense against toxins, parasites, bacteria, viruses and yeast.
Simply put, it is the oxygenation of the body. Sickness and tumors are generally oxygen-hating growths which thrive in oxygen-poor bodies.
15. Gargle with hydrogen peroxide, put drops in the ear and nose to end colds, flu, chronic sinusitis (including polyps], and infections.
16. Use as a vegetable wash or soak to kill bacteria and neutralize chemicals.
17. Disinfect your dishwasher or refrigerator.
18. Use it on trees and plants as a natural fungicide, insecticide, and as a weed killer.
19. Clean with hydrogen peroxide when your house becomes a biohazard after its invaded by toxic mold, such as those with water damage.
Throughout the world hydrogen peroxide is used instead of chlorine as a safer and eco-friendly municipal water purifier. Some use H2O2 in pools and spas.
...
Mahatma Gandhi - Seven Blunders of the World
- Wealth without work
- Pleasure without conscience
- Knowledge without character
- Commerce without morality
- Science without humanity
- Worship without sacrifice
- Politics without principle
...
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