Sensei

26 June

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The Ultimate in Business Etiquette

Posted by Allen Baird, Partner in business ethics,education

office_building

That nice, modest Mr Blair is at it again, this time in the name of religion.

As founder of the appropriately named Tony Blair Faith Foundation, he has spoken from on high.

You’ve heard calls for ‘financial literacy’ and ‘emotional literacy’ in our schools, which I applaud. You’ve read my thoughts on the subject in such blogs as Teach Skills, Not Subjects and Never Mind the Three Rs – What About the Three Cs?

Now, Blair calls for ‘religious literacy’ to be taught in schools. He says that it is a ‘vital skill’ in our globalised and multicultural society.

And, guess what, this time, Tony is right. But for the wrong reasons.

Yes, it is a skill. And, yes, it should be taught. But not, as Tony thinks, for reasons of international peace-making. This is too grandiose, too messianic…too Blairite. I’d like to suggest two points on this.

(1) I’ve studied philosophy and theology at post-graduate level, and I can tell you, the overlap in content, method and terminology is massive. Humanists don’t need to worry about indoctrination. There’s more chance of that happening by watching the latest episode of Coronation Street, I kid you not. If you like, don’t call it ‘religious studies’; call it ‘worldview studies’ or equivalent. That way we can include modern ‘religions’ like Marxism. It’s all about meaning, stupid!

(2) As far as international business is concerned, knowing something about the thought-patterns of those from other cultures is a vital skill. Up until now, the subject of business etiquette, when dealing with international issues, was content to limit itself to greetings, dress, gestures, dining, gift-giving and the like. Sometimes it delved into the deeper waters of customs and ethics. But really, to get at the psychological roots of any people, religion is required reading.

I’m designing a some workshops in business etiquette at the moment. Its a fascinating subject, drawing together many different strands and subjects, from negotiation strategies to sexual awareness to business writing to body language. I’ll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, don’t think religion, think reality tunnel!

Image credit: kevindooley.