All week I have been wondering "what website defines America" and all week I have been searching the web like crazy without finding even one decent answer until just 5 minutes ago !
Youtube ! Now, I know that Youtube technically is global, but their headquarters are in the United States. And to me it is a good image of the melting pot America is ! Plus, on youtube, you can find videos showing you all different aspects of America and the American life. America is huge just like Youtube is a vast website and one of the fastest growing of our generation ! I would have more to say about it if my head was not buzzing, but to me, youtube is definitely the website that covers the most grounds on what America is all about ! The many cultures, this idea of big, of greatness ... So, yes, Youtube also has many videos put up by non Americans, but isn't America an assortment of pieces of other cultures anyways ?!
Friday, 28 May 2010
Defining America With Fox
As a passing tribute to all that is great in those great United States, the first defining thought that comes to mind is Fox news. Whether or not you are a Republican, Democrat or (heaven help) a Socialist, you will be able to appreciate the absurdity that lies within most of Fox News programing. It stands as a testament that something so controversial could remain in a nation that watches its press so carefully, tended not to be done to the same extent in many 'western' nations.
Commentators such as Bill O'Reilly speaks as though it was for all the American people, and in a way it is. Rather than seeing it as believing or standing against the points taken, the debates often end up with leading academics in the United States shouting in each others faces. An uncontrollable mess follows and the viewer is left wondering why there was a point. It can only be a matter of time before it moderates, so I simply say
'God Bless These United States' - and Glenn Beck...........
Commentators such as Bill O'Reilly speaks as though it was for all the American people, and in a way it is. Rather than seeing it as believing or standing against the points taken, the debates often end up with leading academics in the United States shouting in each others faces. An uncontrollable mess follows and the viewer is left wondering why there was a point. It can only be a matter of time before it moderates, so I simply say
'God Bless These United States' - and Glenn Beck...........
Thursday, 27 May 2010
Contemporary America - American Airlines
http://www.aa.com/i18n/aboutUs/diversityInclusion/main.jsp?anchorEvent=false&from=Nav
The website I chose that for me typifies America, is American Airlines, the world renowned major airline in the US, a representative of American exceptionalism and soft power across the globe. The page on the site that took my particular interest was the 'Diversity and Inclusion' page in which the airlines emphasize the importance of diversity and that this airline is 'more than just an airline', but a global company willing to except you into their diverse community. 'Diversity isn't just an inspirational goal. Its the way we do business'. Yet though the website may be portrayed as all 'hunky dory' and happy, we have to question the situation with the airlines post 9/11, where the idea of panic at airports, caused many airlines to shut down. Today, you cannot pass through customs without a thorough investigation. 'Diversity' is in a sense put on hold, as a lot of Americans assume that people from country's such as Iraq and Afghanistan are somewhat of a threat. Are Americans likely to let an Iraqi guy with a giant rucksack go through security without underlying suspicions... probably not. Yet contemporary America is rebuilding itself and with the American Airways website, you get the impression that all they want is a safe a country and they will nevertheless welcome you, once you've passed all the paperwork and security checks.
The website I chose that for me typifies America, is American Airlines, the world renowned major airline in the US, a representative of American exceptionalism and soft power across the globe. The page on the site that took my particular interest was the 'Diversity and Inclusion' page in which the airlines emphasize the importance of diversity and that this airline is 'more than just an airline', but a global company willing to except you into their diverse community. 'Diversity isn't just an inspirational goal. Its the way we do business'. Yet though the website may be portrayed as all 'hunky dory' and happy, we have to question the situation with the airlines post 9/11, where the idea of panic at airports, caused many airlines to shut down. Today, you cannot pass through customs without a thorough investigation. 'Diversity' is in a sense put on hold, as a lot of Americans assume that people from country's such as Iraq and Afghanistan are somewhat of a threat. Are Americans likely to let an Iraqi guy with a giant rucksack go through security without underlying suspicions... probably not. Yet contemporary America is rebuilding itself and with the American Airways website, you get the impression that all they want is a safe a country and they will nevertheless welcome you, once you've passed all the paperwork and security checks.
Contemporary America
http://www.fox.com/glee/
I have chosen the website for the TV show, Glee. It is a hugely popular show set in a high school and is about a group of outcasts who come together because of their love of singing and dancing. Its characters are all different, there is a Latino, an Asian, an African American, a Jew, a boy in a wheelchair, a gay boy, two cheerleaders and a pregnant teenager. They seem to have tried to identify as many minority groups as possible, all of them treated a bit differently and brought them all together to create the ‘melting pot’. There is also a lot of emphasis on the American Dream idea – that they can all achieve what they want if they pull together and work hard. I know its cheesy and completely over the top but it presents an image of contemporary America that we can all recognise from many other films and TV shows and one that hasn’t changed a great deal over the years. There are many of us who grew up influenced by the idea that American High School is so much better than our comprehensives!
I have chosen the website for the TV show, Glee. It is a hugely popular show set in a high school and is about a group of outcasts who come together because of their love of singing and dancing. Its characters are all different, there is a Latino, an Asian, an African American, a Jew, a boy in a wheelchair, a gay boy, two cheerleaders and a pregnant teenager. They seem to have tried to identify as many minority groups as possible, all of them treated a bit differently and brought them all together to create the ‘melting pot’. There is also a lot of emphasis on the American Dream idea – that they can all achieve what they want if they pull together and work hard. I know its cheesy and completely over the top but it presents an image of contemporary America that we can all recognise from many other films and TV shows and one that hasn’t changed a great deal over the years. There are many of us who grew up influenced by the idea that American High School is so much better than our comprehensives!
Thursday, 20 May 2010
The Decline of American Declinism
Funnily enough, I thought that when researching American Declinism I would find a lot of websites that agreed with the view that America is going down. Yet, I seemed to have found more website agreeing to the contrary ! Apparently it's the notion of declinism that is declining, not America !
http://rationaloptimist.wordpress.com/2008/06/30/american-declinism/
My choice is an article on a blog (a personal blog on someone's views on politics, society, philosophy) that argues that America is not declining, at all ! In fact, it is this idea that America is in decline that is declining and getting old ! The author of the post debates that America is the richest country in the world, a huge country too ! And that every time people thought it would go down, it didn't (after Vietnam, people were very pessimistic, yet it was the USSR that collapsed !).
Every time in history people thought America would fail as a country, it didn't and something happened that proved people wrong. So, the author is basically telling us to stop being pessimistic and to start having some faith in America, because it will not cease to work the way it does.
http://rationaloptimist.wordpress.com/2008/06/30/american-declinism/
My choice is an article on a blog (a personal blog on someone's views on politics, society, philosophy) that argues that America is not declining, at all ! In fact, it is this idea that America is in decline that is declining and getting old ! The author of the post debates that America is the richest country in the world, a huge country too ! And that every time people thought it would go down, it didn't (after Vietnam, people were very pessimistic, yet it was the USSR that collapsed !).
Every time in history people thought America would fail as a country, it didn't and something happened that proved people wrong. So, the author is basically telling us to stop being pessimistic and to start having some faith in America, because it will not cease to work the way it does.
American Declinism
http://rationaloptimist.wordpress.com/2008/06/30/american-declinism/
My chosen sourse, 'The Rational Optimist' channels itself around the view that Americans should stay hopeful in this time of difficulty. The author goes against the view of pessimists who focus on the 'fall' of America and those who discount the view that America is a 'very rich country'. He claims that as long as America continues being productive in the world, they will be able to 'afford' the rising debts, thus maintaining the idea that America is not a 'debauched' nation who in reaching their peak, are now on a downword slope. America is still a country of great 'technological advancement' with the 'energy' and 'creativity' to silence doubters and get by without the possibility of starvation. If America maintains its exceptionalism of work ethic and high productivity, it may even get 'better'.
The article invites responses from other viewers; one which agrees with the author that 'we do need to be optimists about the future'; and one B Peterson who strongly disagrees with the optimistic outlook, claiming that 'Americans will lose either way'.
My chosen sourse, 'The Rational Optimist' channels itself around the view that Americans should stay hopeful in this time of difficulty. The author goes against the view of pessimists who focus on the 'fall' of America and those who discount the view that America is a 'very rich country'. He claims that as long as America continues being productive in the world, they will be able to 'afford' the rising debts, thus maintaining the idea that America is not a 'debauched' nation who in reaching their peak, are now on a downword slope. America is still a country of great 'technological advancement' with the 'energy' and 'creativity' to silence doubters and get by without the possibility of starvation. If America maintains its exceptionalism of work ethic and high productivity, it may even get 'better'.
The article invites responses from other viewers; one which agrees with the author that 'we do need to be optimists about the future'; and one B Peterson who strongly disagrees with the optimistic outlook, claiming that 'Americans will lose either way'.
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
America in decline
I have chosen this video of an interview from 2008 with Dick Meyer, author of a book called “Why we hate us”. Smith’s idea is that the ‘we’ is each individual and the ‘us’ is the collective of American public culture – he mentions politicians, the media and really everyone in their public persona. He refers to people talking on phones in restaurants and being oblivious to the world around them because of ipods and mobile phones and the fact that it means that people are less aware and therefore less considerate of others. I thought this was an interesting perspective on American decline as it refers more to the daily lives of Americans rather than its military power or its financial influence. There is also below an interview with Meyer which gives more detail – he blames television for a lot of America’s problems and his answer seems to be to turn it off!
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2008/09/why-we-hate-us/8836/
Friday, 14 May 2010
Native Indian Tribes [CATCH UP]
I have chosen the Blackfeet Indians of Canada and Montana (link in the photo). The Blackfoot were a powerful buffalo-hunting tribe of the northern plains, with most of their settlements in Montana, and Alberta. At first the Blackfoot Indians were happy by the arrival of the Europeans, since the horses they brought were invaluable to buffalo hunters, there main source of food and revenue.However what can be seen in many areas of Native Indian life, the 'white man' led to its demise. Smallpox epidemics ravaged the Blackfoot population in the mid-1800's (white settlers may have introduced the virus and helped it along by selling smallpox infected blankets). In 1870 American army forces, looking for Mountain Chief's band of hostile Blackfoot Indians, fell instead upon a band of peaceful travelers and killed 200 of them, many of them women and children. The Website they have is slick, easy to use and well stocked with knowledge, somthing other more western nations could take not on.
Federally recognized with an enrollment of more than 35,000, the Chickasaw are currently the eighth largest tribe in the United States. They played a huge role in the wars between the nations scrabbeling for land and are often known among many people, as only a few tribes are ever remembered by the Western community.
The decline of the Chickasaw can be traced to the battles for control of upper North America between France and The United Kingdom. It could be the fact that British traders were established in their country before the settlement of Louisiana, or that the Chickasaw fought on the side of Great Britain, and French attempts to make peace with them were unsuccessful. After 1834 they moved, according to treaty arrangements, to Oklahoma. They have done well for themselfs in the United States, and as mentioned carry a large number of members to this day.
9/11 [CATCH UP]
The video I have chosen is one that I felt best summed up the way in which the United States took the tragedy, that being one of resolve and commitment to avenging the deaths. Rudy Giuliani used it as an ad campaign, and the way in which he speaks of the children and grand children of the Greatest Generation (1939 - P) who won the greatest war to date, warms the hearts of Americans, and those who watched a superpower, temporarily, brought to its knees.
The attacks on the World Trade Centre has left an inedible mark on the United States, a stinging blow that hit so deep, one believed they would never again ignore the long held troubles of most nations in the world. It has become apparent that they have not learnt well enough, but one thing lies clear, on that day the hate of the world for America hit its shores, something not seen since Pearl Harbour. Islam claimed the responsibility, and the United States chased after them, along with its western allies. Now it seems the world grows tied of chasing, and America now runs not to avenge its fallen men and women, but restore its own sense of superpower status. What know one has mentioned is that seems to have been ebbing for some time.
The attacks on the World Trade Centre has left an inedible mark on the United States, a stinging blow that hit so deep, one believed they would never again ignore the long held troubles of most nations in the world. It has become apparent that they have not learnt well enough, but one thing lies clear, on that day the hate of the world for America hit its shores, something not seen since Pearl Harbour. Islam claimed the responsibility, and the United States chased after them, along with its western allies. Now it seems the world grows tied of chasing, and America now runs not to avenge its fallen men and women, but restore its own sense of superpower status. What know one has mentioned is that seems to have been ebbing for some time.The American Psyche
When Choosing which article to pick, I decided to go against the theme I had chosen for the presentation, and instead pick one which interested me the most. I found his views in the article about China's oppression of the peoples in Tibet to be refreshing and going against the feeling in the international community at the time. There is a time and a place to allow differences to be set aside, and others where the world must say enough. The problem comes with China forming more power in the world, and what would be better than to have the West pour money into its industries, after all the Olympics is very expensive to put on.'What is going on in Tibet may be seen as a form of sport in its own right, a thrilling, pre-Olympic warm-up: the Chinese beat, harass and imprison Tibetans; the Tibetans cower, run away, are imprisoned. The Chinese hit and shoot; Tibetans fall, bleed, die. Later, the world shows up in Beijing, cash in hand.'
Thursday, 13 May 2010
The homophobic, homosexual pastor — American Psyche
http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2007/mar/17/weekend7.weekend
I chose this article because of its interesting connection to the short story I picked for the presentation, My Amendment.
The article talks about a pastor who founded a very anti-homosexuality church when really he was having homosexual relations himself. Because ashamed of his "true nature", the pastor moved towns and found counseling to change his sexual orientation and is now as heterosexual as can be. Saunders mocks this by saying he tried this sexual orientation counseling which ended up turning him gay the first time round, then extremely heterosexual (as in the paroxysm of the macho man) and finally turned him into an nonsexual being. And because of this, he was going to found a church anti-homosexuality AND anti-heterosexuality.
I think Saunders critiques two things here. First the aberration of having such prejudices. He takes it a step further when talking of founding his church, meaning : "you wouldn't be against heterosexuality, right ?! Then why are you anti-homosexuality ?". Prejudice is bad and people should simply stop with it, especially if it is for something as personal as the choice of your partner's gender.
Then, I also think that Saunders critiques this fear of being different that is very present in America. People have an image in their head of what they should be and do anything and everything to attain it. In the process, they'll even renounce who they really are, just to be accepted by society, or at least the majority of society. If being gay is seen as bad, people will never fully live their sexuality and be frustrated all their lives ! And, Saunders also mocks the "sexual orientation counseling sessions", as sexual orientation change is an unpredictable science. It discredits the process completely, again asking people why would they ever want to change, especially when the results can be very unpredictable !?
I chose this article because of its interesting connection to the short story I picked for the presentation, My Amendment.
The article talks about a pastor who founded a very anti-homosexuality church when really he was having homosexual relations himself. Because ashamed of his "true nature", the pastor moved towns and found counseling to change his sexual orientation and is now as heterosexual as can be. Saunders mocks this by saying he tried this sexual orientation counseling which ended up turning him gay the first time round, then extremely heterosexual (as in the paroxysm of the macho man) and finally turned him into an nonsexual being. And because of this, he was going to found a church anti-homosexuality AND anti-heterosexuality.
I think Saunders critiques two things here. First the aberration of having such prejudices. He takes it a step further when talking of founding his church, meaning : "you wouldn't be against heterosexuality, right ?! Then why are you anti-homosexuality ?". Prejudice is bad and people should simply stop with it, especially if it is for something as personal as the choice of your partner's gender.
Then, I also think that Saunders critiques this fear of being different that is very present in America. People have an image in their head of what they should be and do anything and everything to attain it. In the process, they'll even renounce who they really are, just to be accepted by society, or at least the majority of society. If being gay is seen as bad, people will never fully live their sexuality and be frustrated all their lives ! And, Saunders also mocks the "sexual orientation counseling sessions", as sexual orientation change is an unpredictable science. It discredits the process completely, again asking people why would they ever want to change, especially when the results can be very unpredictable !?
American Psyche
I chose this article as I felt that it was a good representation of 'Fake America'.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2007/jul/28/weekend7.weekend1
Saunders satirises the various mistakes made by American journalists.
The first one: 'Father kills bear charging at Son with log' as a reader we are confused. Yet the point that Saunders puts across is the ridiculousness of these stories and the false ideas they put across in the heads of the American youth, from this I draw on the story of 'jon' in the In persuasion nation collection. In this story 'jon/Randy' is dominated by false images of society, in which he rarely has the freedom to explore outside his camp, his confusion over the identity of his mother and even his own name comes solely from advertising. Here Saunders identifies that what we are told, in media and various adverts, doesn't mean that it is true. In this article it is the case with journalism, where American media consistently fails to 'check the facts' therefore a false representation of reality comes out.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2007/jul/28/weekend7.weekend1
Saunders satirises the various mistakes made by American journalists.
The first one: 'Father kills bear charging at Son with log' as a reader we are confused. Yet the point that Saunders puts across is the ridiculousness of these stories and the false ideas they put across in the heads of the American youth, from this I draw on the story of 'jon' in the In persuasion nation collection. In this story 'jon/Randy' is dominated by false images of society, in which he rarely has the freedom to explore outside his camp, his confusion over the identity of his mother and even his own name comes solely from advertising. Here Saunders identifies that what we are told, in media and various adverts, doesn't mean that it is true. In this article it is the case with journalism, where American media consistently fails to 'check the facts' therefore a false representation of reality comes out.
George Saunders - American Psyche
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2008/may/24/healthandwellbeing
Saunders has written several articles for the ‘American Pysche’ series in the Guardian about the influence of advertising in America. The articles are very cynical about the images portrayed in order to endorse products – I particularly like his comments in this article on the advert for anti cellulite cream featuring ‘four wafer-thin women with no cellulite on their celery-thin legs’ and that these women had quite clearly never had cellulite. A phone call to the company confirmed that this was true, two had never heard of cellulite and another thought it was a new form of food sealing technology.
The article backs up some of the aspects of My Flamboyant Grandson in that it perpetuates the idea of the bombardment of Americans with advertising. He is commenting on the pressure that Americans feel to have the next big thing in order to be happy. There is also the cynicism about the extent that advertisers will go to in order to push these products.
Saunders has written several articles for the ‘American Pysche’ series in the Guardian about the influence of advertising in America. The articles are very cynical about the images portrayed in order to endorse products – I particularly like his comments in this article on the advert for anti cellulite cream featuring ‘four wafer-thin women with no cellulite on their celery-thin legs’ and that these women had quite clearly never had cellulite. A phone call to the company confirmed that this was true, two had never heard of cellulite and another thought it was a new form of food sealing technology.
The article backs up some of the aspects of My Flamboyant Grandson in that it perpetuates the idea of the bombardment of Americans with advertising. He is commenting on the pressure that Americans feel to have the next big thing in order to be happy. There is also the cynicism about the extent that advertisers will go to in order to push these products.
Thursday, 6 May 2010
Masculinity issues in Contemporary America [catch up post]
This blog post is on the issue of masculinity in America. Because this was our first topic this semester, I had to read my notes on the subject to refresh my memory.
The blog task was to research and find one america website dealing with the issue of masculinity and what we could understand through it, how masculinity is perceived. I chose a blog as I thought it would be closer to the population and give a real personal insider view of the issue. The blog, http://masculineheart.blogspot.com/, is all about masculinity but in a different way to what we apprehend it normally. It talks about contemporary issues (parenthood for example and metrosexuality). Offers a lot of material about philosophy, metaphysics, and a different approach to being a man. It breaks down the clichés and reassure men it is totally normal to not be the stereotypical man. Men are also emotional, fearful and questioning creatures.
The blog task was to research and find one america website dealing with the issue of masculinity and what we could understand through it, how masculinity is perceived. I chose a blog as I thought it would be closer to the population and give a real personal insider view of the issue. The blog, http://masculineheart.blogspot.com/, is all about masculinity but in a different way to what we apprehend it normally. It talks about contemporary issues (parenthood for example and metrosexuality). Offers a lot of material about philosophy, metaphysics, and a different approach to being a man. It breaks down the clichés and reassure men it is totally normal to not be the stereotypical man. Men are also emotional, fearful and questioning creatures.
9/11 world trade center memorial
I chose this video as it represented a highly nostalgic outlook on the tragedy. I found this video particularly powerful and moving, driven by the emotional soundtrack of Jeff Buckley singing 'Hallelujah', it is done in documentary style with the producer carrying what must camcorder taking us on a journey inside what was once the world trade center. The video shows real footage of being on the top of the two towers, looking out over Manhatten, the views really are amazing and its somewhat ironic and sad that the view no longer exists. I should also emphasise the importance of the soundtrack in this video, much of the lyrics in the song act as an eery echo of the event, lines like 'I've seen this room and I've walked this floor', bringing a visual nostalgia of once being actually inside the buildings as well as the line: 'there was a time when you let me know, what's really goin on below but now you never show that to me do you', conveying the sense that the victims remain suspended in time, suspended in the last moments of their life, high up inside the two towers. It is a haunting video in that respect. Unlike the other videos, this offers little in terms of hope and emphasises more on loss, as people are still grieving and will most likely grieve forever for their lost loved ones.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tznSfXplNRU&feature=fvw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tznSfXplNRU&feature=fvw
9/11 Tribute to those who died
I chose this video because it struck me as being different. At least different from the others I had seen. Most videos which are tributes are an assemblage of pictures, footage and music. But this video offered something more : on top of the music, and the pictures and the footage, you can hear the words of George Bush and some journalists. I think this adds gravity to the pictures. The song chosen is also very sad and the lyrics, on top of those images, gives a whole new dimension of emotions.
Of course there is the tribute to the people who died, but with the speeches incorporated, it also shows that America was not ready to give up, it was "being tested" and had to stand the test.
Of course there is the tribute to the people who died, but with the speeches incorporated, it also shows that America was not ready to give up, it was "being tested" and had to stand the test.
9/11 video
I chose this video as it is a good representation of many of the videos available on line. It contains many iconic images from the events of 9/11 – pictures of the World Trade Centre before the attack, the planes colliding, and the horrific aftermath. The accompanying song called “I Believe” talks about love being the answer and the American flag appears on numerous occasions. All these images combine to give a strongly patriotic message of hope. There is the hero worship element to this video – pictures of firefighters and police who risked their lives. There is a religious element to it which is unsurprising given that religion plays such a big part in many Americans lives – mention of God and prayers in several places. The whole video combines to give a picture of Americans shocked but undefeated by the events.
Friday, 30 April 2010
Religion In America - Mormons
The Church Of Jesus Christ Of The Latter-Day Saints is regarded as part of the Christian movement and is a wing of the Mormon religion. It was founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith. Jr. who was told by an angel that a tablet of gold hidden in the earth would tell of God's dealings with pre colonised America. The top ranks of the movement are considered great teachers and followers are discouraged from questioning them over matters of theology. There sacred texts include the Old and New Testament, as well as the Book Of Mormon which is considered on the same level as the previous two.
For me, is shows America in one of its fundermental lights, as the church has at one time or another both refused entry of black men into the church and Polygamy. It tells of how, in 1820, Smith was visited by both 'God the Father' and Jesus Christ, and that he was taught that through the gradual acquisition of knowledge, those who were sealed to there exaltation could eventually become co-equal with God. It takes the religions of many to the extreme, has a wealth of contradictions and half truths, for example Joseph said that God had commanded him to tell the people He would return in 56 years. Smith said this in 1835, so that would be 1891. Christ did not return in 1891, because it is believed that when Jesus returns, every eye will see Him. (Rev 1:7)
In another revelation by Smith, he proclaimed a temple would be built within a generation in the west of Missouri. A generation to the western world is often recognized as 40 years. However, the Mormon definition of a generation is 110. This was recorded in 1832, 166 years have passed and there is no temple in the western Missouri. According to God's word, it only takes 'one false prophesy to make a false prophet'. In just one period of time Smith gave 64 prophesies and 58 never came true and most are dated so the Mormon can not simple say it has not happened yet!
Thursday, 29 April 2010
Scientology
Who hasn't heard of scientology before ? A couple Hollywood stars (Tom Cruise, for example) are part of this strange religion. The website is very "snazzy", with videos on every page and a very professional looking layout. You can learn about the founder, what it is like inside a church, the beliefs and practices and you can even meet a scientologist !
The first thing I thought when arriving on the website was : wow, okay, they had money invested in their website ! You can buy the Scientology book, you can find information about the humanitarian programs they sponsor and you can also find the website of your country (however, I stayed on the American one). Talking of the humanitarian programs, that's something that strikes out at first. They want to help others and encourage you to help the world ... by becoming a scientologist ! Scientology helps the rest of the world, but it also helps individuals get happier. It's a nice message and I guess that's where the appeal resides (at least, that's what I would say, I don't really see an appeal here).
It really talks about coming together to make the world a better place but to also be happy. It says it's "a religion in its highest meaning, as it helps bring man to total freedom and truth". Scientology is today's fastest growing religion, in today's economic climate, wanting to be happy is probably high on the list of priority for people. The phrase "The pursuit of happiness" came to my mind as soon as I started to read a bit of the website.
http://www.scientology.org/
The first thing I thought when arriving on the website was : wow, okay, they had money invested in their website ! You can buy the Scientology book, you can find information about the humanitarian programs they sponsor and you can also find the website of your country (however, I stayed on the American one). Talking of the humanitarian programs, that's something that strikes out at first. They want to help others and encourage you to help the world ... by becoming a scientologist ! Scientology helps the rest of the world, but it also helps individuals get happier. It's a nice message and I guess that's where the appeal resides (at least, that's what I would say, I don't really see an appeal here).
It really talks about coming together to make the world a better place but to also be happy. It says it's "a religion in its highest meaning, as it helps bring man to total freedom and truth". Scientology is today's fastest growing religion, in today's economic climate, wanting to be happy is probably high on the list of priority for people. The phrase "The pursuit of happiness" came to my mind as soon as I started to read a bit of the website.
http://www.scientology.org/
The Native American Church
My chosen religious denomination focuses on the Native American church of Strawberry Plains Tennessee. http://www.nativeamericanchurch.com/
The sentence that highlights the front page of this website emphasises the very beliefs relevent in Native American communities: 'Truth, like the air we breathe, comes to us compliments of the creator, may it always be so'. The church practises what is called a 'peyote' practise, 'the road back to a true self'. It focuses around spiritual healing and the sacred relationship with your soul. Although their religion may seem individualistic, they do believe in a one supreme God, the creator and do preach the love of their neighbours, though may this love may be limited to their own community, which explains the somewhat hostile history associated with Native Americans amongst the various tribes. Peyotism primarily acts as a reflection of oneself on humanity. Man forms an 'image' of himself. If this 'image' conducts bad behavioural practises, linked with Christian sins, the image is lost, and this 'loss of image' is the main fear of peyote practise. The object for Native Americans practising this religion is to seek a perfect being of 'intent' and 'direction', the path to creating a 'true self' and gain 'spiritual legacy'.
The sentence that highlights the front page of this website emphasises the very beliefs relevent in Native American communities: 'Truth, like the air we breathe, comes to us compliments of the creator, may it always be so'. The church practises what is called a 'peyote' practise, 'the road back to a true self'. It focuses around spiritual healing and the sacred relationship with your soul. Although their religion may seem individualistic, they do believe in a one supreme God, the creator and do preach the love of their neighbours, though may this love may be limited to their own community, which explains the somewhat hostile history associated with Native Americans amongst the various tribes. Peyotism primarily acts as a reflection of oneself on humanity. Man forms an 'image' of himself. If this 'image' conducts bad behavioural practises, linked with Christian sins, the image is lost, and this 'loss of image' is the main fear of peyote practise. The object for Native Americans practising this religion is to seek a perfect being of 'intent' and 'direction', the path to creating a 'true self' and gain 'spiritual legacy'.
Wednesday, 28 April 2010
Seventh Day Adventist Church
http://www.adventist.org/beliefs/fundamental/index.html
The Seventh Day Adventist Church is a Christian group with a strong belief based on the Scriptures and the idea that Jesus Christ will return to Earth. This is a very large organisation with members all over the world. They are the largest church in the states of Utah and Idaho.
I was interested to see that whilst their views are very traditional, they seem prepared to accept that it helps to not be judgmental and to offer help and support wherever possible. They offer guidelines on various things – one being abortion. Whilst it is clear that they disagree with the principle, they accept that there are circumstances when it is necessary, such as in the event of rape, congenital defects and risk to health. They don’t however condone homosexuality or same sex marriage.
They clearly value family life and help within the community and I can see that this would be very comforting to many people. Whilst their beliefs may seem old fashioned, they have considered many aspects of modern life and offer their members advice on how to provide support to others. There is also a dating website offering Seventh Day Adventist singles the opportunity to meet other like-minded people.
The Seventh Day Adventist Church is a Christian group with a strong belief based on the Scriptures and the idea that Jesus Christ will return to Earth. This is a very large organisation with members all over the world. They are the largest church in the states of Utah and Idaho.
I was interested to see that whilst their views are very traditional, they seem prepared to accept that it helps to not be judgmental and to offer help and support wherever possible. They offer guidelines on various things – one being abortion. Whilst it is clear that they disagree with the principle, they accept that there are circumstances when it is necessary, such as in the event of rape, congenital defects and risk to health. They don’t however condone homosexuality or same sex marriage.
They clearly value family life and help within the community and I can see that this would be very comforting to many people. Whilst their beliefs may seem old fashioned, they have considered many aspects of modern life and offer their members advice on how to provide support to others. There is also a dating website offering Seventh Day Adventist singles the opportunity to meet other like-minded people.
Wednesday, 14 April 2010
Friday, 26 March 2010
Review of Crash
It is fascinating to read the mixed reviews of Crash. It is certainly a controversial film, but I wouldn't apply as a result of beating Brokeback Mountain at the Oscers. I would apply it to the issues it brings up, most notably racism. Though after watching and enjoying it, I must praise the film for what it is. I believe that the film was effective in creating tension in its audience, the editing and camerawork is superb e.g. the close-up of the gun held by the Persian as he seeks retribution through murder. I think that the film is highly effective, in interweaving the plots, to create the climax. It is though somewhat sad that the director, kills off the black guy and I'm not surprised by the amount of negative reactions to that. I though felt thoroughly manipulated, as I was indeed one of the people sitting on the edge of their seat, as the Persian shot at the little girl and pleasantly surprised that she wasn't hurt. I believe that the theme of racism is well explored, he underlines issues of racism in all race and classes and not just the white bourgeois. I can identify Ebert's quote to the film that 'people's assumptions prevent them from seeing the actual person'. The film teaches us a lesson that we should somehow find a way around our racial judgements and not judge the person by their colour. I do indeed think that 'Crash is a film about progress', the main thing is that we learn something from a film and I feel we get that with Crash.
Though I must add that although I'm a fan of the Stereophonics, I can see little to why Maybe Tomorrow would have something to do with the film.
Though I must add that although I'm a fan of the Stereophonics, I can see little to why Maybe Tomorrow would have something to do with the film.
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Crash - THE MOVIE
This Film was about as disappointing as Barack Obama's health care bill. For me, it lacked any sense of realism and good acting skill, even thought it caried a heavywieght of actors as the cast. Everything just felt staged, stale and used before. we all know that there is racism in this world, and America has its fair share, but the film lacked any imagination. The racism was not well thought out, and in the end predictable. Its a topic that could have been done better, and yes is somthing a little different to watch, but at times just had me yearning for a pillow. The focus seemed always to be on the white characters and there racism, the other ethnic groups there to simple make the film itself non-racist. If I could give this a rating, it would be a 2 out of 5, good topic but could try harder!!
Crash
I would just like to point out the fact that I was not able to read one of the reviews as the page was not found (it was Foundas's review).
Now, my sentiments about crash are quite mixed. On one side, how refreshing to see something different on screens. Something contemporary which deals with real life issues in a way we can all relate to (well, at least I can). I thought that both reviewers had a fair point, although, after watching it again and thinking about it, I would actually lean towards Foundas's point of view. Not that it was a bad film, at all, but that it simply uses pre-made stereotypes and that the characters don't very three dimensional. Yes, some have a history and you can sense it, you sense that they are not just an empty shell. But others do not have the same depth. And this lack in depth really got to me the second time around.
Also, something that did shock me completely was the Iranian and the Korean characters. All other characters experience a change in their views through something concrete that happened to them. The Iranian character, however, is portrayed as paranoid and then only experiences a change of character because he thinks God has appeared to him. I felt that was a little flimsy. Also, all characters appear from a stereotypical point of view and then change in the eye of the viewer, but not the Asians. The stereotype lives on, there is no turning point. Yes, the man is in the hospital, but that doesn't mean he isn't going to stop his little traffic going on and his wife is still as aggressive as at the beginning of the film. Nearly made me question Haggis's view on Asian Americans. Or maybe he simply didn't have any ideas ... kinda sad if that is the case. Either way you look at it, the Asian Americans don't have the good role.
Also, I was solely disappointed by the ending, it felt ... incomplete and too easy. I am sorry, but, what are the odds for a woman like Sandra Bullock's character to fall down the stairs at that very moment and the only person that would help her is the housekeeper ? Even if it were to happen in real life, what are the odds for that woman to then hug the said housekeeper and feel remorse ?! I am not sure that many people who have the mentality she had in the beginning would just change her mind after falling down the stairs. I feel that reality doesn't work like this. People with prejudice are unlikely to change their view so easily. So, yes, I agree with Foundas when he says it doesn't feel very real. And he has actually experienced Los Angeles, so I'll take his word for it.
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Review of Crash
I hadn’t seen this movie before – possibly the title didn’t make me want to rush to the cinema, but I was gripped by the different stories and at times horrified by the assumptions made about the characters just based solely on their race. Whilst I think that Scott Foundas is overly harsh in his criticism of the film, I do feel that the film does use stereotypes to give the illusion that LA is a very difficult place to live and that you are constantly in fear of your life. The film has picked out these extreme ends of the spectrum for dramatic effect, in particular, the Persian shopkeeper who seemed to get angry as soon as anyone tried to explain anything to him.
I agree with Ebert’s view that this is a film where the characters are not held back by political correctness – they say what they really think. I enjoyed the way that the individual stories began to mingle together, often with shocking consequences like the shooting of the little girl. The opening sequence of the film where Don Cheadle’s character says that you have to crash into someone in order to have any sort of physical contact could be true of many big cities. People do live in their own little world, often only reacting to others when circumstances force them to.
I agree with Ebert’s view that this is a film where the characters are not held back by political correctness – they say what they really think. I enjoyed the way that the individual stories began to mingle together, often with shocking consequences like the shooting of the little girl. The opening sequence of the film where Don Cheadle’s character says that you have to crash into someone in order to have any sort of physical contact could be true of many big cities. People do live in their own little world, often only reacting to others when circumstances force them to.
Thursday, 18 March 2010
The Abenaki and Seminole tribes
Okay, So my first choice of tribes today was the Seminole Tribe of Florida, because their name was completely unfamiliar to me and was not already taken by someone else on this blog, haha.
The Seminole tribe was based in Florida. And on their website, included in the first few things you can find, is a little text saying that they are a Federally Recognized Indian Tribe and that they are the only tribe that never signed a peace treaty. And that is something, considering where it is placed, that they are very proud of.
The website showcases a series of categories, varying from the History of the tribe to their culture, the tourism and business aspects and their very own newspaper, The Seminole Tribune. They do have a number of services such as a museum you can visit, a village, a swamp safari and even a motocross ! And let's just note than on top of the page of the website is a little logo which has the colours of the tribe and that says : Seminole Tribe of Florida - In God We Trust. It's nearly an embrace to the American culture there ! How many times have we not associated that quote to the USA ?!
If you look at the history of their tribe, there is a part devoted on the sole fact that they never surrendered, and they are very proud of that fact. It seems like the tribe, today, has found ways of making money (through selling tobacco essentially) and are considered one of the most successful tribes. They have made money through gambling but also other business enterprises and seem to be able to take good care of their community.
Now, second website (and therefor second tribe) is this one : http://www.elnuabenakitribe.org/ The ELNU Abenaki tribe. Compared to the previous website, the layout is much simpler (just wanted to point it out) and the colours less aggressive; here we have a dominance of white and green, on the other one, powerful, aggressive colours such as red, yellow and black gave a different atmosphere.
The Tribe of the Abenaki is based in Southern Vermont. They say they want to maintain their culture in modern society. They say they are not like the average modern tribes, they try to focus mainly on the historical aspect of their culture. They study and teach their history and have many traditional artisans.
Every now and again, they live the way their ancestors lived to be closer to the culture and to be sure this culture will be passed onto future generations. They do this when they have the time, to reconnect fully with their ancestors. They really are focused on their traditions and their history, therefor every year they have a conference that is open to other natives but also non-natives. Their aim is to provide a non-biased history of their tribe.
Native American Tribes
The Apache tribe consisting of six regional groups, that occupied a lot a Southwest America, including Arizona, New Mexico and indeed Mexico itself. The apache are considered to be one of the first native american groups to inhabit the Southwest.
The image depicting the Apache war leader Jeronimo, represents a lot of what the Apache tribe epitamised. The values of aggressiveness and courage in the face of difficulty. The very picture suggests as he holds up a gun, that they will not give in, or give up their land without a fight. These qualities aroused fear amongst white settlers in Arizona and New Mexico. He was eventually captured in 1909, yet his legacy seems to have stood, on through time as a prominent native American figure. Indeed his name has come to be famous in popular culture and in many Westerns.The comanche tribe occupied much of the Southern Great plains, including parts of Oklahoma and Texas. Like the Apache's the Comanche were known for many of their conflicts with white settlers and indeed with other tribes such as the 'Crow', 'Cherokee 'Choctaw' and 'Apache' tribes. The website notes that they were the first tribe to use horses, yet they also supplied Americans with horses to reach the gold rush of California 1849. The website is not quite as in depth as the first and leaves a rather sad message at the end saying 'what we know of them is through often biased 3rd party account'.
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Native American tribes
http://www.delawaretribe.org/
The first tribe is the Lenape or Delaware tribe who now live in Oklahoma. Their website says that they were one of the first tribes to come into contact with European settlers and they make the point that they showed kindness to the new arrivals but were then forced to give up their homelands and move across America, eventually forced into Indian Country – Oklahoma. There is mention of them being warriors – ready to fight but also that they were considered as peacemakers in disputes between tribes. In May 2009, they were granted Federal Recognition as an Indian Tribe.
http://www.quileutenation.org/
This is the website of the Quileute tribe. This caught my eye as this tribe is featured in the Twilight novels. Having read the books I had assumed that this was a fictional tribe so I was surprised to find it. The tribe seem to have suffered less than some others as although they live on a reservation; it is the land they have always lived in, in a remote area of Washington state. They have built a successful tourist trade based on fishing, whale watching and hiking.
The first tribe is the Lenape or Delaware tribe who now live in Oklahoma. Their website says that they were one of the first tribes to come into contact with European settlers and they make the point that they showed kindness to the new arrivals but were then forced to give up their homelands and move across America, eventually forced into Indian Country – Oklahoma. There is mention of them being warriors – ready to fight but also that they were considered as peacemakers in disputes between tribes. In May 2009, they were granted Federal Recognition as an Indian Tribe.
http://www.quileutenation.org/
This is the website of the Quileute tribe. This caught my eye as this tribe is featured in the Twilight novels. Having read the books I had assumed that this was a fictional tribe so I was surprised to find it. The tribe seem to have suffered less than some others as although they live on a reservation; it is the land they have always lived in, in a remote area of Washington state. They have built a successful tourist trade based on fishing, whale watching and hiking.
Thursday, 11 March 2010
Hispanic immigration to the USA
Facts versus Fallacies
This first website is a website about a book written by two university professors and an alumnus. It is, thus, a brief encounter of what the book says about hispanic immigration. And it is all about the misconceptions people have and how, economically, these immigrants are very beneficial for the United States. Indeed, they accept the first jobs they can find, most of the time, jobs other people do not want to do, at least not for such low wages. They want to work hard and go up the ladder towards their American Dream.
This second website is basically a long article completely against latino immigration and telling the USA they should be on their guards concerning such an immigration. Indeed, the author sees these immigrants as dangerous for the social and cultural aspects of the United States. He says that this group does not want to assimilate and have created a community excluded from the rest of the population. They speak their own language, have their own politics and, more importantly, their own culture which they do not want to share.
The author starts the article by talking about what the United States are and the history around them. Indeed, there was immigration at that time and all different immigrants came together to form what is now America. If it hadn't been for all these immigrants, the United States wouldn't be what they are but just another country such as Canada or Mexico. But, the point is, everyone worked together. The problem with the latino immigrants is that they do not wish to work with the rest of the population to be included and enrich the country. No, they want to stay together and be a threat to the wonderful american (white and protestant, by the way) culture.
Pro and Anti Latino Immigration
http://news.feetintwoworlds.org/2009/11/09/pro-immigrant-demonstrators-and-hispanic-media-confront-sheriff-arpaio-on-visit-to-southern-california/
My first website focusing on a pro-Latino immigration view 'telling the stories of todays immigrants' looks at a situation in which pro-immigrant protestors confront this 'Sherriff Arpaio' over his 'aggressive tactics' towards what the website calls 'undocumented immigrants'. It is interesting from the start how the website refuses to use the word 'illegal' in identifying the immigrants. The video clip on the website shows the protests and looks in on the poster's branding sherriff Arpaio as one of the 'KKK', yet the protests seem almost celebratory as there seems to be music playing in Latino style. The posters seem to suggest anger, yet anger is not really what comes through in the people. The ageing white Sherriff, seems to be the one getting frustrated by the protests, yet he maintains his view that the 'people like what (he's) doing'.
http://www.scpr.org/news/2010/02/08/immigration-activists-concerned-about-anti-latino-/
My second website is from the Southern California Public radio. It sits on the fence over the matter, and draws in many comments from the American public, on its comment board.
It looks at the issues of the 'growing Latino sentiment in the Tea Party crowd'. It is interesting to look at the various comments on the board, most being anti-immigration. One comment from a Mexican-American interestingly supports the idea of closing the border, emphasising the fact that they are 'overstretched' due to this growing number of immigration. Another comment brands illegal immigrants 'aliens'. There is very much a growing fear amongst what is for now the white majority.
My first website focusing on a pro-Latino immigration view 'telling the stories of todays immigrants' looks at a situation in which pro-immigrant protestors confront this 'Sherriff Arpaio' over his 'aggressive tactics' towards what the website calls 'undocumented immigrants'. It is interesting from the start how the website refuses to use the word 'illegal' in identifying the immigrants. The video clip on the website shows the protests and looks in on the poster's branding sherriff Arpaio as one of the 'KKK', yet the protests seem almost celebratory as there seems to be music playing in Latino style. The posters seem to suggest anger, yet anger is not really what comes through in the people. The ageing white Sherriff, seems to be the one getting frustrated by the protests, yet he maintains his view that the 'people like what (he's) doing'.
http://www.scpr.org/news/2010/02/08/immigration-activists-concerned-about-anti-latino-/
My second website is from the Southern California Public radio. It sits on the fence over the matter, and draws in many comments from the American public, on its comment board.
It looks at the issues of the 'growing Latino sentiment in the Tea Party crowd'. It is interesting to look at the various comments on the board, most being anti-immigration. One comment from a Mexican-American interestingly supports the idea of closing the border, emphasising the fact that they are 'overstretched' due to this growing number of immigration. Another comment brands illegal immigrants 'aliens'. There is very much a growing fear amongst what is for now the white majority.
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Latino immigration
http://www.fairus.org/site/PageNavigator/about/
This organisation is the Federation of Immigration Reform. They are a group set up by ‘concerned citizens’ who want to bring immigration to what they feel is a more reasonable level and to have strong immigration laws in order to remove illegal aliens altogether. There is an article commenting on Obama’s State of the Union speech where they feel that in order to get Americans back to work it is necessary to remove all illegal aliens to free up jobs. There is a strong feeling of wanting to keep America for the Americans but no discussion of the effects to the economy or the diversity of the nation.
http://www.hoover.org/publications/digest/3507096.html
This is an article on a Stanford University website which comments on the importance of the Latino population in the US. It makes an interesting point that a lot of Americans know little or nothing about the history of these people but that they make up such a large proportion of the population. The article mentions that generally Latinos are hard working and don’t find it difficult to find work which is different to the view given in the Huntington article we discussed in the seminar.
This organisation is the Federation of Immigration Reform. They are a group set up by ‘concerned citizens’ who want to bring immigration to what they feel is a more reasonable level and to have strong immigration laws in order to remove illegal aliens altogether. There is an article commenting on Obama’s State of the Union speech where they feel that in order to get Americans back to work it is necessary to remove all illegal aliens to free up jobs. There is a strong feeling of wanting to keep America for the Americans but no discussion of the effects to the economy or the diversity of the nation.
http://www.hoover.org/publications/digest/3507096.html
This is an article on a Stanford University website which comments on the importance of the Latino population in the US. It makes an interesting point that a lot of Americans know little or nothing about the history of these people but that they make up such a large proportion of the population. The article mentions that generally Latinos are hard working and don’t find it difficult to find work which is different to the view given in the Huntington article we discussed in the seminar.
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
Anti-Latino Immigration
This is a link to a blog by Kellene Bishop which paints a very bleak picture of the future of the United States. She takes the view that there is no want or need for the mass immigration of Mexican nationals into the United States, and lists the ways in which, in her eyes, they would ruin the country further.
"Think of the impression that such parents may have on their children. They begin their relationship with our nation by defying our laws and are financially rewarded for it. Hmmmm. I wonder what message this sends to their children?"
For me the blog is good, as it takes a strong view, though possibly goes to far into what is her own opinion and true facts. The problem of illegal immigration will always be a problem for the United States, as with any country, and its now and not later that the government needs to act to control the stem coming into and dealing with the illegal immigrants already in the boarders.
Hurricane Katrina
This article, though length, gives a good analysis of the reaction and suffering for some of the African-Americans who were effected by Hurricane Katrina. It tries to look at the situation from all angles, and come to a conclusion about why certain measures where not in place, and if they were then why they were not enacted. The hurricane devastated much of New Orleans, leaving many of the population, for which is heavily black, with no were to go to escape the carnage.
The report finds in its conclusion that showed 'that a combination of poverty and perceptions of racism and inequities influenced African Americans to not evacuate, even after reaching the stage of high threat perception.' If the government and local officials had reacted quicker to the threat, and later when getting people to safety, it seems to me that many lives could have been saved. I do not believe that race had a dominant factor in reactions by officials, it may have been underlying in a minority, but the speed and extent of the damage meant that by the time everything was in place, it was to late for most.
Thursday, 4 March 2010
Katrina and Fox
Fox News is pretty infamous for its support to the Republican party. And this article, in my opinion, depicts it clearly. Finding a website devoted entirely on Katrina was extremely hard to find and it seemed like the only interesting links I could find had both already been taken. So, the Fox News article was the next best thing. Why ? Because it is an article that talks about the Hurricane and the situation after the facts with a strong republican voice.
The author of the article exposes the fact that African Americans remember having been, in history at some point, neglected, inferior. A feeling that was reinforced after the Hurricane. After the Hurricane, there had been a lot of talking about Bush and the help provided. Many African Americans felt that the help provided would have come quicker and would have been more effective if the majority of people touched by the disaster hadn't been of colour. 77 percent of white americans disagree with these accusations. The article also mentions the fact that black people saw this natural disaster as a proof of racial inequalities in America. 56% of white americans didn't see it as an important lesson.
Yet, what is said (that is a little more positive this time) is that the black community really came together to help the victims of the Hurricane. A lot of money was raised. Even Rap and hip hop stars provided help. [Funnily enough, the said rappers said to not give money to the Red Cross as no one would know where the money would go to ...]
The author also points out that the situation of african americans has really changed through the years. Now, you get millionaire black talk-show presenters (like Oprah Winfrey), over-paid black basketball players, something a couple of decades ago wouldn't have even been possible to think of ! This social change has permitted other blacks to help out more effectively.
Hurricane Katrina's Devastating effect on African American Higher education
My chosen website focuses on the hurricane's effects on schooling for African Americans in New Orleans. http://www.jbhe.com/features/49_hurrican_katrina.html
It raises the issue of 'race relations' and the underlying tensions still remaining between the white community and the black. It is clear that the black community were initially worse off, in terms of their neighbourhood, once the hurricane robbed them of this neighbourhood, in contrast to the rich white community who could cope, many African Americans had 'no cars, no money and no friends out of town to whom they could turn'. It was adament the whites were refusing to help the blacks despite their desperate situation, old ideas of racism and discrimination were cropping up.
The website highlights the 'diaspora of African American college students' from New Orleans as a result of the hurricane, seeking education at various universities situated across different parts of the nation. The damage done by the hurricane to the colleges leaving many black students without schools to study in, the cost of the damage range being 'as high as $350 million'. After the hurricane, it is clear that New Orleans is becoming the 'city to avoid', due to the destoyed educational facilities and in particularly for blacks; the attitudes of 'white blue-collar community' intent on clearing the black population out of the city.
It raises the issue of 'race relations' and the underlying tensions still remaining between the white community and the black. It is clear that the black community were initially worse off, in terms of their neighbourhood, once the hurricane robbed them of this neighbourhood, in contrast to the rich white community who could cope, many African Americans had 'no cars, no money and no friends out of town to whom they could turn'. It was adament the whites were refusing to help the blacks despite their desperate situation, old ideas of racism and discrimination were cropping up.
The website highlights the 'diaspora of African American college students' from New Orleans as a result of the hurricane, seeking education at various universities situated across different parts of the nation. The damage done by the hurricane to the colleges leaving many black students without schools to study in, the cost of the damage range being 'as high as $350 million'. After the hurricane, it is clear that New Orleans is becoming the 'city to avoid', due to the destoyed educational facilities and in particularly for blacks; the attitudes of 'white blue-collar community' intent on clearing the black population out of the city.
Wednesday, 3 March 2010
Hurricane Katrina
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20090105/thompson
This is an article from December 2008 featured on The Nation website. The reporter investigated the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the cases of the shootings of several black men. It is alleged that the white inhabitants of Algiers Point, a very affluent neighbourhood of New Orleans that was largely unaffected by Katrina, were so concerned about the numbers of people heading for safety in their area that they blockaded the surrounding streets and shot at least eleven people – all black men.
There has been no formal investigation into the events and no charges brought against those that did the shooting. It seems that the rich white people thought that they were under threat from blacks – assuming that they were going to be attacked and therefore justify their actions as self defence.
It is hard to believe that at a time of crisis, when people had suffered already, that these residents chose to act like this rather than offer help and support. It seems clear that in certain areas, racial hatred seems to be so strong.
This is an article from December 2008 featured on The Nation website. The reporter investigated the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the cases of the shootings of several black men. It is alleged that the white inhabitants of Algiers Point, a very affluent neighbourhood of New Orleans that was largely unaffected by Katrina, were so concerned about the numbers of people heading for safety in their area that they blockaded the surrounding streets and shot at least eleven people – all black men.
There has been no formal investigation into the events and no charges brought against those that did the shooting. It seems that the rich white people thought that they were under threat from blacks – assuming that they were going to be attacked and therefore justify their actions as self defence.
It is hard to believe that at a time of crisis, when people had suffered already, that these residents chose to act like this rather than offer help and support. It seems clear that in certain areas, racial hatred seems to be so strong.
Thursday, 25 February 2010
Chinese Immigration
This website focuses on Chinese Immigration to the United States.
http://nhs.needham.k12.ma.us/cur/kane98/kane_p3_immig/china/china.html
The website stresses the importance of the chinese immigration in the development of America. I praise this website for the depth of knowledge it provides, as a student based website. It mentions the traditional issue of American assimilation, used in order to civilise the so-called 'uncivilised' i.e Native Americans. It mentions here that it was not possible to undertake this process due to their different language and customs, yet this later became possible due to pursuit of 'Americanization' for the immigrants. It mentions about the 'chinatowns' (Chinese Ghettos) used to segregate the Chinese in 'major cities' and 'isolated areas' It also refers to the various contributions the Chinese made in developing America as a country including the 15,000 assigned with the task of building the 'transcontinental railroad 1869'. The immigration Act of 1964, opening the doors of opportunity for Chinese immigrants.
The website rather identifies the 'Chinese Americans' as a representation of Asian Americans. It somewhat overlooks the contributions of Japanese and Korean Americans to the country, it is also quite long-winded for students, yet there are pictures and a bibliography for reference.
http://nhs.needham.k12.ma.us/cur/kane98/kane_p3_immig/china/china.html
The website stresses the importance of the chinese immigration in the development of America. I praise this website for the depth of knowledge it provides, as a student based website. It mentions the traditional issue of American assimilation, used in order to civilise the so-called 'uncivilised' i.e Native Americans. It mentions here that it was not possible to undertake this process due to their different language and customs, yet this later became possible due to pursuit of 'Americanization' for the immigrants. It mentions about the 'chinatowns' (Chinese Ghettos) used to segregate the Chinese in 'major cities' and 'isolated areas' It also refers to the various contributions the Chinese made in developing America as a country including the 15,000 assigned with the task of building the 'transcontinental railroad 1869'. The immigration Act of 1964, opening the doors of opportunity for Chinese immigrants.
The website rather identifies the 'Chinese Americans' as a representation of Asian Americans. It somewhat overlooks the contributions of Japanese and Korean Americans to the country, it is also quite long-winded for students, yet there are pictures and a bibliography for reference.
The Irish-American Experience
This website gives an overview to the experience of Irish citizens coming over to America from 1700 to 1930. Further down the page there set pieces of work for students to complete, making sure the information set out is being retained. Some of this work is done in groups, allowing a more free flowing of ideas, or questions that might not be asked when work is done alone. It seems a good way to teach the children about a people's that used to comprise the largest influx group, and even today many Americans still relate to that heritage, falsely or otherwise.There is a lot of information to be found, and lots of colour and links to pictures ma
kes the topic far less daunting for a younger audience."Students will understand the collective experience of the Irish in early America and make connections between the reasons for leaving homelands and the treatment of Irish immigrants then and recent immigrants now."
Tuesday, 23 February 2010
Immigration
http://www.smfc.k12.ca.us/stage/lalosh/index.html
This website is a 5th Grade project (10-11 years old). Their introduction mentions the ‘melting pot’ of America and emphasises the fact that everyone in the US has an immigrant background from some point in history. They have focused on several countries, giving a little bit of the history and background of why people left for America. There is also some information about the hardship of the journey and the arrival at Ellis Island. The reason I chose this site was the contact that this school has with the Bridge program – the children meet with other children of recent immigrants and talk to them about their experiences of arriving in a new country and also help them with their English.
Whilst the project is a very watered down version of immigration history, it does give the children a basic idea that it wasn’t easy for those arriving in America. Their contact with the immigrant children would help their understanding of the problems faced by those arriving today – a lot of these not dissimilar to those experienced throughout history.
This website is a 5th Grade project (10-11 years old). Their introduction mentions the ‘melting pot’ of America and emphasises the fact that everyone in the US has an immigrant background from some point in history. They have focused on several countries, giving a little bit of the history and background of why people left for America. There is also some information about the hardship of the journey and the arrival at Ellis Island. The reason I chose this site was the contact that this school has with the Bridge program – the children meet with other children of recent immigrants and talk to them about their experiences of arriving in a new country and also help them with their English.
Whilst the project is a very watered down version of immigration history, it does give the children a basic idea that it wasn’t easy for those arriving in America. Their contact with the immigrant children would help their understanding of the problems faced by those arriving today – a lot of these not dissimilar to those experienced throughout history.
Thursday, 18 February 2010
women through the ages
image 1
My first image is Glenn Close playing the role of Teddy Barnes in the 1985 film Jagged Edge. Glenn Close in the film plays a lawyer who is hired by a man to prove his innocence in the murder of his wife. Her character, Teddy Barnes, seems to depict exactly the "power woman" image that women had in the 80s. However, Barnes is not a woman who both has the career AND the family, indeed she is divorced (and ends up have a relation with her client). She is not seen as a dangerous, psychotic woman, unlike Close's part in Fatal Attraction. Her only flaw is probably to have slept with her client.
So, even though she is not a family and career typical 80s power woman, she still has a good career as a lawyer.
image2
My second image comes from the american tv show Gilmore Girls. The picture shows Lorelai Gilmore (played by Lauren Graham) and her daughter Rory (portrayed by Alexis Bledel). Lorelai Gilmore is a single mother (she got pregnant at 16, left her house, found a job as a maid) who is a good example of a woman who has both, a career and a family. Indeed, from her job as a maid, she worked her way to the top and owns her own inn. She is happy with both and the only thing probably missing from her life is a steady relationship (throughout the 7 series, we do see different men coming and going). Compared to the power women from the 80s, it feels like Lorelai is nearly softer in her character. In the 80s, you had Sarah Connor (Terminator) as your single mother, a very different image in 2000. Also, it would seem that Lorelai doesn't have a "typical" power job. You do not see many Inn owners in films and series, and I do not recall a film from the 80s that pictures such a character. In the 80s, it's nearly as if they are trying to accent the power of the woman through her job : lawyer, editor, novelist and what not. Yet, she is still her own boss and completely independent.
My first image is Glenn Close playing the role of Teddy Barnes in the 1985 film Jagged Edge. Glenn Close in the film plays a lawyer who is hired by a man to prove his innocence in the murder of his wife. Her character, Teddy Barnes, seems to depict exactly the "power woman" image that women had in the 80s. However, Barnes is not a woman who both has the career AND the family, indeed she is divorced (and ends up have a relation with her client). She is not seen as a dangerous, psychotic woman, unlike Close's part in Fatal Attraction. Her only flaw is probably to have slept with her client.
So, even though she is not a family and career typical 80s power woman, she still has a good career as a lawyer.
image2
My second image comes from the american tv show Gilmore Girls. The picture shows Lorelai Gilmore (played by Lauren Graham) and her daughter Rory (portrayed by Alexis Bledel). Lorelai Gilmore is a single mother (she got pregnant at 16, left her house, found a job as a maid) who is a good example of a woman who has both, a career and a family. Indeed, from her job as a maid, she worked her way to the top and owns her own inn. She is happy with both and the only thing probably missing from her life is a steady relationship (throughout the 7 series, we do see different men coming and going). Compared to the power women from the 80s, it feels like Lorelai is nearly softer in her character. In the 80s, you had Sarah Connor (Terminator) as your single mother, a very different image in 2000. Also, it would seem that Lorelai doesn't have a "typical" power job. You do not see many Inn owners in films and series, and I do not recall a film from the 80s that pictures such a character. In the 80s, it's nearly as if they are trying to accent the power of the woman through her job : lawyer, editor, novelist and what not. Yet, she is still her own boss and completely independent.
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
http://www.ellecanada.com/home/fashion/lights-camera-fashion/a/28965/4
The first picture is a scene from the film, Working Girl from 1988 showing Melanie Griffith in her power suit. This image is a good representation of the woman trying to make her way to the boardroom – the padded shoulders and the masculine cut of the suit which gives the feeling that women have to have a slightly less feminine look in order to be taken seriously. The film is all about breaking out of the stereotypical view of the woman as the secretary rather than the boss.
http://www.usnews.com/opinion/blogs/jodie-allen/2010/01/07/working-women-ascendant--but-ambivalent
The second piece is an article on the US News website which has the results of a poll on people’s attitude to working women. What I found interesting was that 62% of the women polled would prefer to work part time. It seems that despite fighting for the right to ‘have it all’, many women don’t really want it all. The survey also shows that by a ratio of two to one, Americans think that men have a better life than women and women support this view, according to the survey.
The first picture is a scene from the film, Working Girl from 1988 showing Melanie Griffith in her power suit. This image is a good representation of the woman trying to make her way to the boardroom – the padded shoulders and the masculine cut of the suit which gives the feeling that women have to have a slightly less feminine look in order to be taken seriously. The film is all about breaking out of the stereotypical view of the woman as the secretary rather than the boss.
http://www.usnews.com/opinion/blogs/jodie-allen/2010/01/07/working-women-ascendant--but-ambivalent
The second piece is an article on the US News website which has the results of a poll on people’s attitude to working women. What I found interesting was that 62% of the women polled would prefer to work part time. It seems that despite fighting for the right to ‘have it all’, many women don’t really want it all. The survey also shows that by a ratio of two to one, Americans think that men have a better life than women and women support this view, according to the survey.
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Representations of Women
http://sbccfilmreviews.org/?p=6569
My first website depicts the representation of women in 1980s American film. It addresses the movement in feminism and how it brought 'action' to the screen.
It lists examples of films, that depict the female character as the strong character. Genres such as action and science fiction films: Aliens (1986) depicting the character of Ellen Ripley (played by Sigourney Weaver), who as from her previous films, proves to be the dominent character. In 80's cinema, the independant woman is the lead character, a female audience 'no longer wants to see the traditional female protagonist who is passive and hysterical in the face of attack'. The independant female character in the 80s is 'the worker', 'the decision maker'.
http://dominantroles.blogspot.com/
My second website is an essay that looks at portrayal and representation of women in action films, particularly referring to Laura Mulvey's theory of male objectification and voyeurism of women. The question is: does this still apply today? The author looks at years of female objectification in films throughout early parts of this century such as 'Rear Window' (1954). Yet in present day, the author concludes that female characters have become stronger; films such as Kill Bill vol 2 (2004) depict a female character hunting down her (ex-boss) male character. Women in present day have become 'less apparent as the subject of the male gaze'.
My first website depicts the representation of women in 1980s American film. It addresses the movement in feminism and how it brought 'action' to the screen.
It lists examples of films, that depict the female character as the strong character. Genres such as action and science fiction films: Aliens (1986) depicting the character of Ellen Ripley (played by Sigourney Weaver), who as from her previous films, proves to be the dominent character. In 80's cinema, the independant woman is the lead character, a female audience 'no longer wants to see the traditional female protagonist who is passive and hysterical in the face of attack'. The independant female character in the 80s is 'the worker', 'the decision maker'.
http://dominantroles.blogspot.com/
My second website is an essay that looks at portrayal and representation of women in action films, particularly referring to Laura Mulvey's theory of male objectification and voyeurism of women. The question is: does this still apply today? The author looks at years of female objectification in films throughout early parts of this century such as 'Rear Window' (1954). Yet in present day, the author concludes that female characters have become stronger; films such as Kill Bill vol 2 (2004) depict a female character hunting down her (ex-boss) male character. Women in present day have become 'less apparent as the subject of the male gaze'.
Thursday, 11 February 2010
American Masculinity
I have chosen Esquire Magazine, as I think it shows well the way in which masculinity has been forced into a few select niches. This could be explained by the increase, all be it right, of women into what was customly male dominated areas. These include the workplace, but now expands into sports, such as American Football. The magazine includes sections named 'Women We Love Gallery' and 'The Best Bars in America'. These could easily be classed as typical masculine areas and the magazine is heavily based around it. There is a link titled 'Women', which for a moment I believed to be a women's section, but found it to be a page in which the male reader is told various ways to woe and charm current and prospective women.
It is this notion that a man must be told where to go and what to do which is also changing the field. For me, what is seen as a women’s magazine transposed into a man orientated read fails to grab my attention. What masculinity means is changing, and ultimately the crossover of women moving into male roles, as well as biological advancements such as stem cell research, could lead to the male role, and even the form, lost completely.
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
American Masculinity
The website I have chosen is Men Can Stop Rape www.mencanstoprape.org
This is an organisation working to get men to use their strength to create a culture free from violence – particularly men’s violence against women. They say they are trying to redefine masculinity – to encourage men to use their strength in more positive ways. The program is aimed at younger men (particularly college students).
This organisation seem to be challenging the very traditional views of masculinity and asking men to rethink their relationships with women but there is limited information to see how they are doing this. If the work they do can reduce the amount of violence against women then that can only be a good thing but it will be a difficult thing to change the long held view of many men that it is not ‘manly’ to discuss feelings – especially with other men.
This is an organisation working to get men to use their strength to create a culture free from violence – particularly men’s violence against women. They say they are trying to redefine masculinity – to encourage men to use their strength in more positive ways. The program is aimed at younger men (particularly college students).
This organisation seem to be challenging the very traditional views of masculinity and asking men to rethink their relationships with women but there is limited information to see how they are doing this. If the work they do can reduce the amount of violence against women then that can only be a good thing but it will be a difficult thing to change the long held view of many men that it is not ‘manly’ to discuss feelings – especially with other men.
American Masculinity and The World's Strongest Man
http://www.theworldsstrongestman.com/mariusz_pudzianowski.php
My chosen site in representing American masculinity is an interview with previous World Strongest man champion Mariusz Pudzianowski. As the interview suggests; the sense of masculinity comes from the idea of being the best at your profession, particularly in being strong and muscular. Mariusz Pudzienowski identifies himself as the 'real man'; the idea of success, power and work. He is asked of the advice he would give to someone who wants to become a strongman in which he answers: 'train hard, eat and train', reinforcing the notions of work ethic and eating (like a man). Mariusz is naturally competitive and possesses a certain arrogance associated with masculinity as he doesn't seem to admire any other strongmen apart from 'himself'. He has an interest in expensive and fast cars as he drives a 'hummer' and 'mercedes'. Fundamentally bodybuilding represents the essence of masculinity, this idea is proven in the interview; he is Americanized in that sense, despite his Polish heritage, he is taking part in a sport that has been popularized in America as the peak of manliness.
My chosen site in representing American masculinity is an interview with previous World Strongest man champion Mariusz Pudzianowski. As the interview suggests; the sense of masculinity comes from the idea of being the best at your profession, particularly in being strong and muscular. Mariusz Pudzienowski identifies himself as the 'real man'; the idea of success, power and work. He is asked of the advice he would give to someone who wants to become a strongman in which he answers: 'train hard, eat and train', reinforcing the notions of work ethic and eating (like a man). Mariusz is naturally competitive and possesses a certain arrogance associated with masculinity as he doesn't seem to admire any other strongmen apart from 'himself'. He has an interest in expensive and fast cars as he drives a 'hummer' and 'mercedes'. Fundamentally bodybuilding represents the essence of masculinity, this idea is proven in the interview; he is Americanized in that sense, despite his Polish heritage, he is taking part in a sport that has been popularized in America as the peak of manliness.
Small Groups
Hi
Just to let you know our group will meet on Fridays 10-11 in SEB2 (ground level of St Edburga). Looking forward to seeing you there.
Denise
Just to let you know our group will meet on Fridays 10-11 in SEB2 (ground level of St Edburga). Looking forward to seeing you there.
Denise
Sunday, 7 February 2010
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
The iPhone
One of the great things about the iPhone is that there's an application for practically everything. From reading restaurant reviews, to reading books. Yep, there's an app for that.
The aim of this advert is to convince the customers that there's an application downloadable onto the iPhone allowing you to do practically anything. 'Why would you want to read an MRI on your phone?' I hear you ask. Well, y'know, just in case... And now, with the phone that can do everything, you don't need to have anything else with you. Ever. This device, once just a means of communication, has now become a place to play games, read books, browse the web, listen to music, take photos. Anything and everything you might want.
Well, that's the theory anyway. By adding more and more applications to the iPhone, Apple are increasingly succeeding in making it the new 'must-have' gadget. It is no longer about the phone itself for a lot of people, but the modern lifestyle which owning it implies. It's cool to own one of these, because they're shiny and have a touchscreen.
The aim of this advert is to convince the customers that there's an application downloadable onto the iPhone allowing you to do practically anything. 'Why would you want to read an MRI on your phone?' I hear you ask. Well, y'know, just in case... And now, with the phone that can do everything, you don't need to have anything else with you. Ever. This device, once just a means of communication, has now become a place to play games, read books, browse the web, listen to music, take photos. Anything and everything you might want.
Well, that's the theory anyway. By adding more and more applications to the iPhone, Apple are increasingly succeeding in making it the new 'must-have' gadget. It is no longer about the phone itself for a lot of people, but the modern lifestyle which owning it implies. It's cool to own one of these, because they're shiny and have a touchscreen.
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
Budweiser
The video I chose is an advert for Budweiser. The youtube video gives the top 10 of 2008's Super Bowl, the actual advert I am talking about is number 8.
Now I chose this particular one because, although it does not feature a human figure as the centre of attention, it is a clear mention (to me) of the American Dream and can nearly be drawn back to the "Alger Complex" that I talked about in my presentation on Gabriel.
It clearly shows that people are still stuck on this idea of an American Dream, that working hard will get you somewhere and that success is possible. The advert is basically a horse that can't take part in whatever the other horses are doing, so a dog decides to train the horse. And one year later, the horse is included in the team that rejected it the previous year.
To add to the appeal of the advert, it includes some "funny" elements like the horse and the dog, theme music from Rocky, etc ... so that the public can be amused. But behind this is the image of an America that can work towards its goals. And probably there is also the message that by drinking Budweiser, your dreams can be reached more easily. So, yes, I really do think that this advert just reaches out to the heart of every american by promoting this image of success and achievements through labour and by saying that it is possible. It also promotes this nice image of America outside the country itself, maybe to some close neighbors.
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