Presentation Analysis:
1. This song is a very simple song, but it makes the point that goals are necessary to make on an individual level and a community level. The lyrics highlight the challenge of making and committing to a goal through incorporating different feelings/emotions (pathos). At the same time, the lyrics evoke a sense of unity and community through using these different feelings/emotions, because they make up a universal personality; everyone can relate to the emotions that are mentioned.
Therefore, I believe this song would illustrate that setting a goal is very important and can be done and accomplished on a level larger than an individual level, as long as the conflict of feelings are recognized so that the community can help each other or know what they are up against. This scenario is very illustrative of how the political issues are playing out on climate change in the United States, and through exploring it we can come to conclusions on how it can be helped/changed.
2. This comic provokes an immediate idea of competition, which is the main idea I wanted to express through this presentation. The green thing #2 makes a statement that challenges his opponent, and since the majority of the audience has been in this situation before, the audience can relate and assume that the green thing #1 will try to meet the challenge (pathos). So, once a person’s presumed inability is brought to their attention they will instinctly try to prove that they are capable.
Therefore, the main idea of this presentation ties into the “tactic” that Kennedy used during the Space Race and could be used in the future to provoke a similar response, which was that the American people did rise to the occasion in order to prove their superiority over Russia. What the audience will learn is that competition is a natural human instinct, which triggers the want to win or succeed, and can be used to accomplish a goal or mobilize people to act.
3. A goal cannot be achieved on a community level unless it is conveyed to the public, through pathos, with words and memories that make people feel emotion. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s speech, “I Have a Dream”, instantly brings to mind change, inspiration, and power. His ability to fabricate desires and objectives, in the mind of the people, through speech willed the public to unite under one purpose; the purpose needed to achieve the goal of equality.
He is the voice of his goal, and therefore must bring his audience along with him, engaging them emotionally and intellectually. Powerful speeches have the ability to invoke feelings of patriotism, urgency, pride, hate, respect, unity, and many other emotions. I will use this presentation to teach the audience that pathos is extremely effective in persuading your audience of your purpose.
4. This picture depicts people helping each other make it to the top. It portrays teamwork through pathos and allows the audience to assume that if one of the people were not committed to the task of helping progress would not be made. Although, I have to fill in the blank on how this presentation teaches the audience about cooperation in relation to accomplishing a goal (even if the answers are obvious), the illustration is very useful. The gestures of helping hands, of hard work, and of triumph clearly describe the rewards of cooperation and therefore describe how similar rewards or goals are capable of accomplishment through this way.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
topic paragraph for revision
Global warming is a theory based on the observed increase, of one degree Fahrenheit, in global temperature over the past one hundred years. Many scientist believe that this phenomena is a direct result from human activities that emit greenhouse gases (GHG), such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere. The GHG remain in the atmosphere and allow solar radition to pass through them to the Earth's surface, but trap the heat rising from Earth's surface, preventing its release into outer space. Therefore, the climate becomes hotter. Over the past two decades, global climate change has been a hotly debated topic. In 1988, James Hansen, a NASA climate expert, brought climate change to the attention of the United States Congress, and proposed that immediate action to reduce GHG emission be taken, based on his findings. His climate change research promoted international awareness and gave scientist a foundation to build on. Since Hansen's Congressional address, much head way has been made in creating green technologies, such as hybrid cars and flourescent light bulbs, which encourage the use of alternative fuel and minimize resource consumption. As of now, the United States has no policies pertaining to climate change mitigation. Although incentives, such as tax deductions, are used to promote the use of environmentally friendly technology; there is no existing legislation that requires such action. Prediction made for the year 2040 estimate that the average global temperature will increase by 3 degrees Celsius and result in life-threatening sea-level rise and storms. So, it is essential, and in America's best interest to enact laws and regulations that will prevent a catastrophe from occuring. A reason for the lack of action taken on this matter is that it will require great sacrafices and a complete make over of the American lifestyle. Therefore, such a movement must be developed with prior knowledge of past presidential initiatives that were used successfully to enact and implement major social, economic, and political change. In identifying public affair, legislative, and leadership strategies used during the Roosevelt, Kennedy, and Johnson Administrations, a successful policy approach, addressing climate change, can be developed. Clean Air Cool Planet, a leading ngo for climate change prevention, believe the national initiatives taken on by these Presidents outline influential characteristics needed to promote a successful Presidential initiative; setting a goal, gaining national support and cooperation, promoting healthy competition, and establishing an organization that has the ability and knowledge to direct and supply power behind such a goal. The emulation of these actions in President Obama's climate change agenda would contribute to an effective policy. Every American must understand the values behind each effort so that they can make informed choices on how they choose to contribute to the success of their nation.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Four Fictional Presentations Relating to Past Presidential Initiatives that Could be Successfully Applied to Address Climate Change
1.Eiffel 65, One Goal
Music:Lobina/Gabutti/Randone
Lyrics:Capuano/Lobina/Randone/Gabutti/Ponte
Mixed by:Angelica Villella
All we need is one more Goal.
All we need is one more Goal.
All we seek is one Goal,
One Goal.
All we need is one Goal.
One Goal could be your happiness.
One Goal can make you sad.
One Goal can be desperation.
One Goal can become your hope.
One Goal can do a lot of things.
One Goal can change the world.
One Goal can be your brotherhood.
One Goal is the score of your Life.
http://www.songlyrics.com/eiffel-65/one-goal/33024/
This song represents the importance setting a goal and the different impacts that that goal can have on the public. Setting a goal is the first step in moblizing change on an individual level, national level, and global level. When setting a goal, the impacts it may have on those affected by the goal, must be considered. For example, if a goal was set to reduce national greenhouse gas emissions 20% by the year 2040, it must be understood that the actions neccessary to complete this goal would could result in job loss for those who work at powerplants generated by coal or could trigger an economic crisis --- these considerations are illustrated in the lyrics "one goal can make you sad, one goal can be desperation". Most successful goals try to mitigate negative impacts on industries,economy,the public, etc... but must be set regardless in order to begin future progress, that is neccessary to all the wellbeing of all humankind (desperation reflected again).
#3. This song is geared towards people of all ages and sexes. Its message is universally understood, as we all start to create goals for ourselves at a very young age.
#4. In this song, ethos is being used to describe a community of people who share concerns and hopes in setting or committing to a goal that will affect their lives. Every line of this song is dedicated to a different emotional feeling, but still evokes a feelings of unity through one goal that "WE" need. It suggests to me that each feeling is a characteristic that makes up a universal personality. Therefore, this song also incorporates pathos, by illustrating a the desire to create a common goal despite emotional apprehension or differences. Incorporating a variety of feelings and ways of perceiving a common goal appeals to more people, because they are conscious of their individual emotions, which this song recognizes.
#5. In this presentation ethos effectively illustrates interest in a common good for people, because it takes into account many universal perspectives. Pathos is also used effectively, because it focus on acceptance of others feelings/ideas, which many people can connect to. Also, the way in which the scenario of setting a goal is described is very positive. It sends a message that a common goal can be set, and possible reached, despite the individual differences among people's feelings. The lyrics encourage understanding and action by connecting with universal feelings, too.
#6. This song can be used to teach my audience about the importance of setting a goal that can be nationally understood and accepted, which is conveyed through ethos, and tried to accommodate as many views as possible. In addition, this song also can be used to show that differences in feelings towards a common goal, will not terminate the goal from being carried about. You must join the cause regardless of initial emotions that arise, due to uncertainty of the outcome. Pathos shows this through the lyrical repetition that makes the audience feel that they should not give up. Participate in a goal that is being set for the "common good," and then allow yourself to experience the different emotions described above. Achieving a goal is a process that will evoke many feelings throughout its existence.
2.
Public participation and support is neccesary if one wants to achieve a goal on a national or global scale. Therefore the public must be tempted in one way or another in getting involved and wanting to achieve the goal set before them! This picture represents the importance of promoting healthy competition as a tool to mobilize public interest and participation. It worked for Kennedy in the "Space Race". Competition is a natural human insitinct, which triggers the want to win or sucecced. So lets say if the goal is seen as a competition between countries, it might actually be completed, possibly even in a timely manner. Americans are proud that their country is the greatest super power -- if threatened they will do whatever it takes to stay on top.
#3. This graphic is aimed at men and women, 20+. I believe that all people at this point have felt a competitive drive whether during college application time or going out into the world and finding a job. Experience is the only education neccessary, although much of the drive is human instinct.
#4. This image uses pathos in such a direct way that evokes feelings and memories of competition, it gets its message across immediately. The blurb of text is very understandable and similar to the lines used in competitive activities. One always begins a competition with the intention of winning, or wanting to win, and therefore they objectify their opponent. I also think the character that is speaking could represent ethos, in that his personality is clearly competitive, which some people could connect to. As for logos, this may be a stretch, but paper is about global warming, and I think this image brings to mind the factual evidence that nothing is being done, which would considerably impact climate change.
#5. I think pathos is used well, in that a emotion comes to mind through looking at this picture. The idea behind this comic is very understandable, people will either look at this image in a political way or a relational way, which can been seen in logos, but I do not know if this source would be considered an expert testimony. Ethos, is not an effective part of this presentation.
#6. I want to use this comic in relation to President Kennedy's actions, which created healthy competition to promote support for the "Space Race." I believe we all have experienced our competitive drives before and I want to explain how this human instinct can be used to accomplish a goal. Pathos would be the best way to connect to my audience, because competition is a universally known feeling. Also, through the logos of this comic, which is what my topic is on, I can provide additional information that would be helpful in informing the audience of my purpose for these particular presentations.
3. "I Have A Dream" Speech by Martin Luther Kind, Jr. http://www.famousquotes.me.uk/speeches/Martin_Luther_King/
Immediately this speech brings to mind change, inspiration, and power. Powerful speeches have the ability to invoke feelings of patriotism, urgency, pride, hate, respect, unity, etc... Speeches are essential in fabricating desires and objectives--- parts of a goal. A goal cannot be achieved unless it is conveyed to the public with persuasiveness. It must will the public to unite under one purpose, the purpose needed to achieve the goal set before them. Speeches are what give goals purposes and keep the public attentive throughout the process of achievement.
#3. This presentation is for people in college and older. They must have some knowledge of civil rights in America to understand and feel what this speech is about.
#4. This speech uses pathos to build on individual emotions of people, as well as create new inspiring emotions within them. As MLKjr. speaks, visions of equality and justice and struggle all become real in the imagination. The words and his voice paint a vision that invites people to join in his cause. This speech symbolizes equality. There is no better person to give this speech that MLKjr., which draws on ethos, because he has a very adequate grasp of the subject being talked about, one that is rooted in his history. He is also percieved as with the greatest love and regard, because the feel that he is sincerely concerned and interested in their welfare. Logos is also in the text, because this speech was created to promote a civil rights movement, that resulted from a history of slavery and inequality. The facts are in the past, and his words describe in great detail the exact situation at that time.
#5. I think the rhetorical appeals are strongest in this presentation. Its representation of fabricating desires and objectives in itself is part of pathos. This speech is historical, using logos, which everyone my target audience will be able to connect to through memories or knowledge from school. As a infamous figure, MLKjr. fall under all the categories of ethos. He has read widely, knows and observes the principles of valid reasoning, and has considerable interest in the welfare of his audience, at that time. It is a true life example of how effective all the rhetorical appeals can be.
#6. In using the "I Have A Dream..." Speech as one of my presentations, I think I can effectively teach my audience that powerful speech is an essential component in being able to convey and fabricate desires and objectives, with the hope of empowering your audience. Ethos of course is an good place to start, which highlights MLKjr. status as a well respected figure. He is the voice of his goal, and therefore must bring his audience along with him, engaging them emotionally and intellectually. Using speech that makes one feel emotion, pathos, is a effective way in connecting with the audience, which is explained in my topic.
4.
Cooperation is essential in achieving a goal. Everyone must do their part in order to contribute to a successful outcome. Here there are people climbing a mountain all the way up to the top. They all depend on one another, because without the person behind them it looks as if they would all fall. If people do not cooperate with one another progress cannot be made. This presentation of cooperation is a main foundation in being able to achieve change.
#3. Men and women of all ages can see this picture and understand what it represents, because from a young age we've been taught in schools and sports to work with one another.
#4. This image portrays logos to a very simple degree. The illustration shows a group of people, extending helping hands to one another, climbing a mountain. The rope is being used by everyone to lead them to the top, where someone waits to help them onto the cloud. Cooperation, teamwork, helpful,working together are all words that would unarguable come to mind. I think the image depicts these universal symbols quite clearly, too, which is where the pathos appear. We've all been in relational situations to this one, and therefore we know how it feels to be acting as the people in the image are acting.
#5. From a logos standpoint, I think I could put this image to use. It is very to the point, and from my perspective, a universal symbol of cooperation and teamwork. Its possible that considering logos would be less effective than considering the image a mode of pathos. It brings to mind emotions when an individual looks at it.
#6. This is the final component, cooperation, that is illustrative of an essential characteristic needed to achieve a goal. In describing this picture, pathos, to my audience they will begin to understand how this presentation is the key to any success. I want to define each detail within the image, such as helping hands, in relation to my topic. Pointing out the situations on a political and national level, in which cooperation is mandatory.
Music:Lobina/Gabutti/Randone
Lyrics:Capuano/Lobina/Randone/Gabutti/Ponte
Mixed by:Angelica Villella
All we need is one more Goal.
All we need is one more Goal.
All we seek is one Goal,
One Goal.
All we need is one Goal.
One Goal could be your happiness.
One Goal can make you sad.
One Goal can be desperation.
One Goal can become your hope.
One Goal can do a lot of things.
One Goal can change the world.
One Goal can be your brotherhood.
One Goal is the score of your Life.
http://www.songlyrics.com/eiffel-65/one-goal/33024/
This song represents the importance setting a goal and the different impacts that that goal can have on the public. Setting a goal is the first step in moblizing change on an individual level, national level, and global level. When setting a goal, the impacts it may have on those affected by the goal, must be considered. For example, if a goal was set to reduce national greenhouse gas emissions 20% by the year 2040, it must be understood that the actions neccessary to complete this goal would could result in job loss for those who work at powerplants generated by coal or could trigger an economic crisis --- these considerations are illustrated in the lyrics "one goal can make you sad, one goal can be desperation". Most successful goals try to mitigate negative impacts on industries,economy,the public, etc... but must be set regardless in order to begin future progress, that is neccessary to all the wellbeing of all humankind (desperation reflected again).
#3. This song is geared towards people of all ages and sexes. Its message is universally understood, as we all start to create goals for ourselves at a very young age.
#4. In this song, ethos is being used to describe a community of people who share concerns and hopes in setting or committing to a goal that will affect their lives. Every line of this song is dedicated to a different emotional feeling, but still evokes a feelings of unity through one goal that "WE" need. It suggests to me that each feeling is a characteristic that makes up a universal personality. Therefore, this song also incorporates pathos, by illustrating a the desire to create a common goal despite emotional apprehension or differences. Incorporating a variety of feelings and ways of perceiving a common goal appeals to more people, because they are conscious of their individual emotions, which this song recognizes.
#5. In this presentation ethos effectively illustrates interest in a common good for people, because it takes into account many universal perspectives. Pathos is also used effectively, because it focus on acceptance of others feelings/ideas, which many people can connect to. Also, the way in which the scenario of setting a goal is described is very positive. It sends a message that a common goal can be set, and possible reached, despite the individual differences among people's feelings. The lyrics encourage understanding and action by connecting with universal feelings, too.
#6. This song can be used to teach my audience about the importance of setting a goal that can be nationally understood and accepted, which is conveyed through ethos, and tried to accommodate as many views as possible. In addition, this song also can be used to show that differences in feelings towards a common goal, will not terminate the goal from being carried about. You must join the cause regardless of initial emotions that arise, due to uncertainty of the outcome. Pathos shows this through the lyrical repetition that makes the audience feel that they should not give up. Participate in a goal that is being set for the "common good," and then allow yourself to experience the different emotions described above. Achieving a goal is a process that will evoke many feelings throughout its existence.
2.
Public participation and support is neccesary if one wants to achieve a goal on a national or global scale. Therefore the public must be tempted in one way or another in getting involved and wanting to achieve the goal set before them! This picture represents the importance of promoting healthy competition as a tool to mobilize public interest and participation. It worked for Kennedy in the "Space Race". Competition is a natural human insitinct, which triggers the want to win or sucecced. So lets say if the goal is seen as a competition between countries, it might actually be completed, possibly even in a timely manner. Americans are proud that their country is the greatest super power -- if threatened they will do whatever it takes to stay on top.
#3. This graphic is aimed at men and women, 20+. I believe that all people at this point have felt a competitive drive whether during college application time or going out into the world and finding a job. Experience is the only education neccessary, although much of the drive is human instinct.
#4. This image uses pathos in such a direct way that evokes feelings and memories of competition, it gets its message across immediately. The blurb of text is very understandable and similar to the lines used in competitive activities. One always begins a competition with the intention of winning, or wanting to win, and therefore they objectify their opponent. I also think the character that is speaking could represent ethos, in that his personality is clearly competitive, which some people could connect to. As for logos, this may be a stretch, but paper is about global warming, and I think this image brings to mind the factual evidence that nothing is being done, which would considerably impact climate change.
#5. I think pathos is used well, in that a emotion comes to mind through looking at this picture. The idea behind this comic is very understandable, people will either look at this image in a political way or a relational way, which can been seen in logos, but I do not know if this source would be considered an expert testimony. Ethos, is not an effective part of this presentation.
#6. I want to use this comic in relation to President Kennedy's actions, which created healthy competition to promote support for the "Space Race." I believe we all have experienced our competitive drives before and I want to explain how this human instinct can be used to accomplish a goal. Pathos would be the best way to connect to my audience, because competition is a universally known feeling. Also, through the logos of this comic, which is what my topic is on, I can provide additional information that would be helpful in informing the audience of my purpose for these particular presentations.
3. "I Have A Dream" Speech by Martin Luther Kind, Jr. http://www.famousquotes.me.uk/speeches/Martin_Luther_King/
Immediately this speech brings to mind change, inspiration, and power. Powerful speeches have the ability to invoke feelings of patriotism, urgency, pride, hate, respect, unity, etc... Speeches are essential in fabricating desires and objectives--- parts of a goal. A goal cannot be achieved unless it is conveyed to the public with persuasiveness. It must will the public to unite under one purpose, the purpose needed to achieve the goal set before them. Speeches are what give goals purposes and keep the public attentive throughout the process of achievement.
#3. This presentation is for people in college and older. They must have some knowledge of civil rights in America to understand and feel what this speech is about.
#4. This speech uses pathos to build on individual emotions of people, as well as create new inspiring emotions within them. As MLKjr. speaks, visions of equality and justice and struggle all become real in the imagination. The words and his voice paint a vision that invites people to join in his cause. This speech symbolizes equality. There is no better person to give this speech that MLKjr., which draws on ethos, because he has a very adequate grasp of the subject being talked about, one that is rooted in his history. He is also percieved as with the greatest love and regard, because the feel that he is sincerely concerned and interested in their welfare. Logos is also in the text, because this speech was created to promote a civil rights movement, that resulted from a history of slavery and inequality. The facts are in the past, and his words describe in great detail the exact situation at that time.
#5. I think the rhetorical appeals are strongest in this presentation. Its representation of fabricating desires and objectives in itself is part of pathos. This speech is historical, using logos, which everyone my target audience will be able to connect to through memories or knowledge from school. As a infamous figure, MLKjr. fall under all the categories of ethos. He has read widely, knows and observes the principles of valid reasoning, and has considerable interest in the welfare of his audience, at that time. It is a true life example of how effective all the rhetorical appeals can be.
#6. In using the "I Have A Dream..." Speech as one of my presentations, I think I can effectively teach my audience that powerful speech is an essential component in being able to convey and fabricate desires and objectives, with the hope of empowering your audience. Ethos of course is an good place to start, which highlights MLKjr. status as a well respected figure. He is the voice of his goal, and therefore must bring his audience along with him, engaging them emotionally and intellectually. Using speech that makes one feel emotion, pathos, is a effective way in connecting with the audience, which is explained in my topic.
4.
Cooperation is essential in achieving a goal. Everyone must do their part in order to contribute to a successful outcome. Here there are people climbing a mountain all the way up to the top. They all depend on one another, because without the person behind them it looks as if they would all fall. If people do not cooperate with one another progress cannot be made. This presentation of cooperation is a main foundation in being able to achieve change.
#3. Men and women of all ages can see this picture and understand what it represents, because from a young age we've been taught in schools and sports to work with one another.
#4. This image portrays logos to a very simple degree. The illustration shows a group of people, extending helping hands to one another, climbing a mountain. The rope is being used by everyone to lead them to the top, where someone waits to help them onto the cloud. Cooperation, teamwork, helpful,working together are all words that would unarguable come to mind. I think the image depicts these universal symbols quite clearly, too, which is where the pathos appear. We've all been in relational situations to this one, and therefore we know how it feels to be acting as the people in the image are acting.
#5. From a logos standpoint, I think I could put this image to use. It is very to the point, and from my perspective, a universal symbol of cooperation and teamwork. Its possible that considering logos would be less effective than considering the image a mode of pathos. It brings to mind emotions when an individual looks at it.
#6. This is the final component, cooperation, that is illustrative of an essential characteristic needed to achieve a goal. In describing this picture, pathos, to my audience they will begin to understand how this presentation is the key to any success. I want to define each detail within the image, such as helping hands, in relation to my topic. Pointing out the situations on a political and national level, in which cooperation is mandatory.
The Simpsons as a Critique of Consumer Culture
he Simpsons, since its creation in the late eighties, has always been a critique of American ideologies and mainstream culture. One would think that a show that makes fun of the people who are watching it would not air on prime time television, nor receive high ratings and popularity, but Sam Tingleff explains how Matt Groening, the creator, made it possible. The narrative itself does not openly criticize American culture or values, it follows a plot that portrays middle class lifestyles and myths, which allows the viewer to see, in a humorous way, the irony or hypocrisy within the dominant culture they live in. Issues of democracy, education, capitalism, and inequality are a few of the topics of critique that are depicted through character interaction or particular situations. For example, Marge is treated unfairly by her husband and children in every show, which stands to represent "American society's dismissal of women," but in an indirect and thought provoking way. This example also illustrates how the characters in The Simpsons are representations of American ideologies/roles, rather than full personalities, which is depicted as conflict of dominant ideas. The combination of underlying cultural critiques within the narratives and the portrayal of ideological characters directs the viewers to question, again and again, the dominant values and culture that is being portrayed.
The witty way in which Groening puts together The Simpson shows, clearly speaks to the American people, or else it would not be as popular as it is. The plot of one episode illustrates Homer quitting his horrible job and getting one that he loves for less money, but when times get tough and more money is needed he must go back to the old job. Many people in our society have obviously experienced this situation and many other situations The Simpsons depict, such as social inequality. Tingleff's description of the purpose of Marge's character reminded me of Beauvoir's, The Second Sex. Together the two texts state that the injustices and stereotypes against women still stand today. Through one's experienced knowledge, aka the dominant culture, they are able to understand the critiques that Groening is trying to illustrate.
I do not think The Simpsons has been defined as a controversial show, even though it criticizes everything about the American culture, including its Democratic foundation, because everyone has struggled with the pressures of the dominant culture. Whether it is conforming to a particular gender identity or trying to gain economic status, the American people have fallen victim to their own constructs. I believe The Simpsons is so well liked because it provides comic relief that allows the viewer to escape from reality, while also questioning the oppressive qualities inherent in our culture.
Questions:
1. Does it mean anything that The Simpsons is aired on FOX, one of the most right-wing television networks in media?
2. Do you think that Groening meant to generate a movement with his creation of The Simpsons?
3. After almost 20 years of The Simpsons airing on prime time television, what noticeable impacts, if any, has it had on the American society or American individual?
The witty way in which Groening puts together The Simpson shows, clearly speaks to the American people, or else it would not be as popular as it is. The plot of one episode illustrates Homer quitting his horrible job and getting one that he loves for less money, but when times get tough and more money is needed he must go back to the old job. Many people in our society have obviously experienced this situation and many other situations The Simpsons depict, such as social inequality. Tingleff's description of the purpose of Marge's character reminded me of Beauvoir's, The Second Sex. Together the two texts state that the injustices and stereotypes against women still stand today. Through one's experienced knowledge, aka the dominant culture, they are able to understand the critiques that Groening is trying to illustrate.
I do not think The Simpsons has been defined as a controversial show, even though it criticizes everything about the American culture, including its Democratic foundation, because everyone has struggled with the pressures of the dominant culture. Whether it is conforming to a particular gender identity or trying to gain economic status, the American people have fallen victim to their own constructs. I believe The Simpsons is so well liked because it provides comic relief that allows the viewer to escape from reality, while also questioning the oppressive qualities inherent in our culture.
Questions:
1. Does it mean anything that The Simpsons is aired on FOX, one of the most right-wing television networks in media?
2. Do you think that Groening meant to generate a movement with his creation of The Simpsons?
3. After almost 20 years of The Simpsons airing on prime time television, what noticeable impacts, if any, has it had on the American society or American individual?
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Knowledge Nugget: The Bell Jar
1. Teaches the reality of glamorized notion of sex portrayed in our culture ---- Prude:How the Sex-Obsessed Culture Damages Girls
2. Teaches the importance of details, how they serve as a means of creating an image that allows the reader to "see" what is happening ---- http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/0/1/8/ar120283325581063.gif
3. Teaches a process of thought, how feelings/beliefs can be transformed through an experience ---- http://www.starlightangel.co.uk/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/Transformation.jpg.w300h410.jpg
2. Teaches the importance of details, how they serve as a means of creating an image that allows the reader to "see" what is happening ---- http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/0/1/8/ar120283325581063.gif
3. Teaches a process of thought, how feelings/beliefs can be transformed through an experience ---- http://www.starlightangel.co.uk/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/Transformation.jpg.w300h410.jpg
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Second Sex
Since the conceptualization of the sexes, the drive to differentiate between female and male has played an essential part in the construction of identity and culture. Yet, Simone de Beauvoir asks, "What is a woman?" Her question illustrates our desire to disassociate ourselves with everything that defines a woman. Submissive, sexual, passive, needy, emotional, weak are all socially constructed qualities that allow a woman to perform femininity, whereas men perform masculinity through the opposite qualities. These conflicting behaviors result from the duality between the sexes. Beauvoir explains that the historical development of female gender began with ancient philosophy and the Bible, which stated that humanity was male. This belief resulted in male dominance over women, as they saw themselves superior. Man defined women relative to himself, as the Other. Beauvoir believes the women's complete subordination resulted because their inability to organize a unit or community, and their constant dispersal among males. Even man's dependency on woman for offspring and pleasure lends her no equality, the relationship is compared to that of a slave and master. In addition, the men are the only sex that works, so the women are dependent on their income. It was a man's world, created by men, until the 18th century. Woman began to work during the industrial revolution and gained a new independence that was feared by men. Beauvoir affirms that change is happening, but inequality will always have a presence in men's minds. The impact of oppression and unequal treatment on women has made them advocates for the general interest and public good.
The way in which Beauvoir posed the question, "what is a woman?" Immediately grasped my attention. The fact that women were denouncing their sexual identity, their human nature, because society's mainstream expectations had tainted it, is an enormous sacrifice. Beauvoir did mention that this sort of defiance showed that the women were haunted by their femininity, but I am in disagreement with her. The construction of femininity began with civilization, and therefore became a repression inherent in the culture. I believe it is similar to the theory of the "culture of poverty," (can't remember the guys name who came up with it, but he knows what he's talking about.) which claims that poverty is an inherent trait within a family that is passed on from generation to generation. Repression could easily be passed on, or continued, through generations, because kids growing up are being educated by the mainstream culture, which creates their values and identity. Then as they grow up, they will demonstrate what they learned from ideological state apparatuses (i.e. schools, family, and church). Gaining complete equality is a very hard goal to reach, unless humanity unites.
I did not understand everything Beauvoir was inferring in her text, but I saw many correlations between her interpretation of social inequality and present day inequalities. She mentioned man's view of woman became extremely sexualized once he was empowered by domination over humanity. This sexualized view of women is still one of the most prevalent and damaging social injustices against women in society, today. Sex is used to sell products, videogames, liquor, etc... You name it there is an ad of it with an almost naked woman in it. In addition, it is very sad, but male domination has not left our culture at all. Women dress like men in order to be taken seriously in the professional world and they are more focused on attaining a muscular body rather than just a slim body. In addition, repression of women through body language, male models, and skinniness is advertisements are really affecting young girls and adolescent's self-image.
- Change is needed, but how can it be accomplished when the media runs our world?
- How would you describe eternal feminism? Do you believe there are any positive aspects to it?
- Beauvoir only once mentions a man's dependency on a woman, but represents it as a master –slave relationship; do you think this she is over exaggerating the inequality between spouses?
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