Conflict can be simply defined as a clash of different points of view, opinions, or values on opposing positions of two or more individuals on the same subjects. This definition would have us believe that conflict is always rooted in preferences rather than actual facts, substantive issues, or even truth; more times than not, conflict happens to be substantive rather then preferential. For instance, a farmer needs the river to flow through his land in order to water his crops. But the county may need to dam up the river to create an adequate supply of drinking water. Each position is based on genuine needs. However, the conflict is unavoidable since the two positions are irreconcilable.
             Another scenario, this pertaining to preferential conflict, is when two parties are at odds with one another about the last time they had an argument or when two parties approximately arrive at a restaurant at the same time and wish to sit at the same table. Both situations are based on the individual(s) own opinion, neither right or wrong simply a point of view. So while conflict may be the result of different points of view or opinion, it may also be caused by legitimate differences in the needs of two or more parties. Conflict can only occur when all parties are aware of the fact that they are in disagreement. All conflicts have the potential of resulting in a win-lose situation where one parties gain is at the other's loss.
             How it relates to us today is by the amount of diverse perception in corporate America. It has substantially increased because of two basic reasons. The first involves the immigration of a large and continuous population of ethnic, migrant workers from different corners of the world. These knowledge workers are products of varying, and at times diametrically opposing environments that in turn, affect their perceptions and subsequently the formulation of their opinions and beliefs.
             The acquisition of ...