Gung Ho

Reaction Paper

Presented to the Faculty of School of Business and Governance

Ateneo de Davao University

E. Jacinto Street, 8000 Davao City

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Subject

Human Behaviour in Organization

Del Norte, Pamela Denise L.

September 12, 2014

Gung Ho

The movie basically centers on the clash of cultures in an organizational setting

between the Americans and the Japanese. Here, the Japanese believes in theoretical

manufacture, in which production is at maximum or 100% capacity. In contrast with the

Americans, who otherwise disagree with the notion. In addition, they also differ when it comes

to their employees. The Japanese’s concern is about the well-being of their employees as a

group. Americans, on the other hand, are lenient to their individual employees. Lastly, they

differ with their priorities in life. The Japanese devote their time to organization, while the

American’s priority is to their family.

In real life, manufacturing at full capacity is usually not possible because of other factors

affecting the environment of the organization. There could be rallies, temporary closing of

manufactory, etc. The movie suggests that the Japanese can and has achieve production at

full capacity. I do not favour this kind of manufacturing because it is not only near to

impossibility but also if this is to be pursued then it would be at the expense of the employees.

For example, if there is a natural calamity that would occur, then evidently their target

production cannot be met; same as when a fortuitous event would happen.

In fairness with the Japanese, they are really self-controlled towards their work, unlike

other Americans. Although I don’t like their method in obtaining their objectives but I admire

their discipline and determination towards attaining their goals. These habits of them are hard

to learn much less master them. I especially like the one when they exercise everyday together

as a unit. However, I agree to the Americans that exercising together would be a little bit

overboard for the organization.

I am torn in half with this last view. I believe in putting family above others, other than

God, but I also believe in putting your heart into your work. I treasure my family that is why

they’re my first priority in life. However, you must also be loyal to your organization. The

Japanese shows loyalty to their organization by giving their full and undivided attention, which

for me is unhealthy. Family is important to one’s life and admire the Americans because they

understand the depth of this principle. The Americans understands the priorities of their

employees, they know that they are not at the top list of their employee’s priorities which they

respect.

In summary, the cultures of both countries are nourishing and beneficial. It is in their

discretion on how they practice their culture. They are the only ones who know what are good

for them. In a world with diverse cultures, it is important to be sensitive and keen to others.

Start with building bridges among others and find a common ground. Always remember that

we need no language to laugh-- Janaki Sooriyarachchi.