Communication via Palaver tree

The Palaver Tree is an indigenous democratic institution found in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Palaver Tree, where villagers gather to talk.

Descriptions of the assembly include the following:

• Ritualistic
• Democratic
• Indigenous
• Free debate
• Consensus building
• "Right to Speak
• A goal of harmony, rather than "truth"
• Community
• No urgency
• All-inclusiveness
• Systematic treatment

Such institution that promotes freedom for all its members to communicate and debate important issues seems ideal. Voices are not oppressed, community is strengthened through a ritual in which creates a common bond, and, most interestingly, harmony is valued.

In the United States, we strive to promote a certain "truth" to every dilemma - but is this truth always the best answer? I think that by striving to reach harmony, groups in which hold a debate may strengthen their relationships with one another. Sometimes there is a right & wrong answer; other times, compromise and peace should be the answer. By pushing ourselves to reach harmony, we fully invest in the final outcome.

the clash of values & an open market of communication

In November of 2010, a blog from TechCrunch brought to light a controversial e-book Amazon held in stock: The Pedophile's guide to Love and Pleasure.

Found on Google images

Many bloggers, news reporters and consumers then purchased the e-book to read the content...and learned that the reading was as vile as predicted. After many complaints from almost all audiences, Amazon released a statement.

Amazon believes it is censorship not to sell certain books simply because we or others believe their message is objectionable. Amazon does not support or promote hatred or criminal acts, however, we do support the right of every individual to make their own purchasing decisions.

 Later within the day, Amazon suddenly removed the e-book from their site, without any explanation.

Although Amazon claims to see a free market of ideas and communication as a primary goal, does it not analyze its values as well? The general consensus globally deems pedophilia as immoral. By associating with the illegal act, Amazon tarnished its image. The company did not consider the majority's opinion, including stakeholders such as children, parents and families. Amazon seems to be out of touch with its audience and needs to put more effort into its public relations field, as the company is operating with "technological pulses."