Gender and Diversity in the Workplace in Scandinavia Essay Example

countries is not as appealing, but it is viewed by locals through the lens of socially accepted gender connotations. In terms of diversity perception, especially concerning race and ethnicity, Scandinavians have a different historical experience compared to Americans. Unlike the United States, which has a history of multiple ethnicities and multiculturalism, Scandinavian countries have had more homogeneity. The authors pragmatically analyze potential obstacles that could hinder achieving gender diversity within the Scandinavian context while highlighting possibilities. These obstacles include lack of recognition for women's struggles and interactions with expatriates in Scandinavia. The authors effectively discuss gender concerns while acknowledging how age, race, ethnicity, and other aspects of identity intersect.

The authors' effort in convincing that American views on gender and diversity may not align with Scandinavian opinions is quite apparent. Both Konrad, Prasad and Pringles (2006) and Gatrell et al. (2008) acknowledge that women and minorities still face discrimination in the workplace. Konrad, Prasad and Pringles (2006) support the same viewpoint as Gatrell et al. (2008) regarding the link between gender and diversity, but they also introduce localized opinions. Konrad, Prasad and Pringles (2006) aim to develop a practical and comprehensive approach to discussing gender and diversity, while Gatrell et al. (2008) give importance to a combination of theories such as feminism and patriarchy.

While Gatrell et al. (2008) emphasize that feminism is inadequate in analyzing and understanding social inequalities, Konrad, Prasad, and Pringles (2006) hold a more progressive and futuristic view. Their work critiques the universal concepts of gender and diversity upheld by Gatrell et al. (2008), particularly in relation to opportunities. A similar observation can be made regarding the social justice approach model

of managing diversity presented in the literature by Gatrell et al. (2008), which includes various areas such as sexuality and disability. Konrad, Prasad, and Pringles (2006), aligned with the Scandinavian Perspective, advocate for equal opportunity, the Meritocratic Perspective, and the Special contribution perspective. While these perspectives are pragmatic, Konrad, Prasad, and Pringles (2006) also acknowledge their limitations. The chapter was chosen for its progressive approach to gender and diversity.

The text acknowledges and values the complex nature of gender and diversity, recognizing that different perspectives can shape how these concepts are understood. The chapter explores contemporary aspects of gender and diversity, highlighting the importance of considering local contexts in order to understand inequality. The Scandinavian Perspective is one example of a local opinion that offers valuable insights into gender and diversity. To effectively address workplace discrimination, pragmatic approaches that take into account these various viewpoints are necessary.