Khaled Hosseini’s first novel “The Kite Runner” is a best selling modern piece of literature for many reasons, its a very emotional story, filled with powerful themes and characters, however I believe its greatest achievement is how it smoothly incorporates Middle- Eastern culture into the narrative. This really makes the setting and the whole overall story feel exotic and yet at the same time extremely believable, as well as something completely fresh from what the reader might be used to. This window into another culture’s background makes the story very easy to be interpreted anthropologically over the other 3 social sciences. This is done by explaining racial differences, incorporating dialect, switching to America and then also switching to Pakistan.
First, to summarize the plot, it deals with main protagonist Amir remembering his past in Kabul as a child, and his relationship with his best friend and later revealed to be brother Hassan, as well has his shaky relationship with his father. These events led to a climax where at the Kite Running festival, Amir betrays Hassan by leaving him alone to face the bullies, ultimately getting raped! Amir’s guilt overwhelms him and follows him for the rest of his life. The two friends part on horrible terms very shortly afterwards as Amir and Baba flee the country when the Russians take over. Amir rebuilds his life in America, but is eventually drawn back with a chance to redeem himself.
One of the cultural aspects that stood out to me at the start of the novel, in the flashback was how Amir was a Pashtun and Hassan was a Hazara. This put the two boys in a fairly awkward relationship from the off set, as even though they were best friends, socially they were separated, so much so that Hassan and his father Ali were Amir and Baba’s servants. How can you truly be best friends with someone society is telling you to look down upon. Amir learns that “the Hazara people were descended from Moguls, owing to their flattened, "Chinese-like" facial features. The Hazaras were brutally oppressed throughout their history for being Shi'a instead of Sunni Muslim. His own people, the Pashtun, oppressed the Hazaras.” This reminds me of our in class discussions about race, and how in the end there truly is no race, as the classifications are man-made. If there were really no Pashtun’s and no Hazara’s, perhaps the two main characters could have been closer, and the tragedy been adverted. One of the story is friendship/brotherhood, however until racial prejudices and stereotypes are completely torn down from society then this is impossible. It would be similar to a white person being a friends with a black person, during the period of segregation in the United States.
Another part of the story that really brings out the cultural aspect of the story is how Hosseini incorporates real words from the character’s language into the story. This subtle touch of interweaving the language really adds to the cultural immersion. For example “We sat at a picnic table on banks of the lake, just Baba and me, eating boiled eggs with “kofta” sandwiches - meatballs and pickles wrapped in “naan”.” With this technique, you can learn so much even during parts that aren’t too key to the plot. This sentence was very basic, only a small part of Amir explaining how he wishes to be closer to Baba, however two new words were learned. Eventually through repetition, many words used don’t always need to be explained, they become almost like English words. Truly the only way to fully understand a culture is to experience it, however when an Anthropologist does go to visit a different culture one of the crucial things they learn quickly is the language, so they can communicate with the locals. Learning just a few words is enough for us, as readers to feel like we are part of the culture as well.
As I mentioned in the last paragraph, a central conflict early on, is Amir, desperately wishing for the respect and love of his father. This is what leads him to doing whatever it takes to win the Kite Running tournament and factors greatly in his decision to do nothing while Hassan is raped. However what is interesting here is how this conflict isn’t really unique to people from Afghanistan, it is universal to all of us. We always strive to impress our parents, and make them feel proud of us, especially at that young ages. They are our role models, and trying to live up to their expectations is how the family institution works.
When Amir moves to America, we learn about the small Afghanistan community that always shops at the same flee market. This is important to the story as it is where Amir meets his future wife, however it is also very realistic. Often when a group of immigrants come to a new country they stick together, forming their own sub communities such as Chinatown in Toronto. Sometimes when too many come to a certain area, the normal residents move to a different area. This happens a lot in London, England. Some other points of interest were how Baba struggled taking on simpler jobs in America, after being in a much higher position in Kabul, and how he slowly deteriorated. A cool idea had to do with how Baba was normally so trusting, in Kabul a stick could be used to carve notches representing items purchased from a vendor, whereas in America the store keeper wouldn’t sell him anything without asking for ID. Another thing I found important was how Baba found the idea of America really liberating because he knew his son could grow up in freedom and someday become successful, however Amir found it freeing because he could now be less reminded of his Guilt over Hassan. Baba’s thoughts mirror that of all immigrants though, trying to work their way to the American dream, now free from many hardships in their homeland. I think having a country so close to us or our own country for that matter, feel this important to people is really gratifying.
Another major culture shock is when Amir finally goes back to Pakistan to find Hassan’s son. Amir sees tonnes of beggars dieing on the streets and also witnesses many atrocities committed by the Taliban. This is a point of interest for the novel, as after 9-11 the Taliban became a huge issue, however not a lot of people really understood them. They took back the country from the Russians, however their rule brought about a large number of human rights violations especially towards women. When studying this novel in Mrs Sirianni’s super amazing class, we watched a documentary about this. The women are not supposed to leave the house without a man, aren’t allowed to be educated also aren’t even supposed to show any skin or their face! All these things are truly horrible, and I think are explained further in “A Thousand Splendid Sons” which I hope to read someday. Amir witnesses a “stoning” which is a barbaric form of execution, where the one sentenced has rocks thrown at their head until finally they die. I cannot even fathom how painful that would be. Another really shocking thing was how the orphanage children were really starved and abused, however the head of the orphanage was losing far more, just to keep them alive. This was significant to the story as Sohrab’s reaction to going back lead to the heart stopping climax, that seriously upset me.
It is easy to see how all of this turmoil and devastation led to western countries wanting to step in and fight the Taliban. Nonetheless, when Amir wanted to simply adopt Sohrab and get the hell out of there, he was faced with a whole mess of restrictions. This lead to Sohrab finally panicking and trying to kill himself, which in turn kills the reader as I mentioned above. Even though it doesn’t seem completely practical, perhaps western countries allowing refuge to these people is a greater feat then any other.
Since “the Kite Runner” is such an incredibly rich novel, filled with so much information I would also like to briefly describe some of the psychological issues that I could have discussed. The book could have completely been analysed this way, however since I did that for “1984” I wanted to do something new. Amir’s character is completely motivated by his guilt for the grand majority of the story. Seeing how much it hurts him and how far it makes him go is a really good moral message, not betraying your friends. This is why it is such an exceptional quest for redemption. His whole journey can be summed up in the phrase "There is a way to be good again" - page 2 (shows how far I got in the book!) Another thing is how when Sohrab tries to kill himself, the novel demonstrated how his personal anguish led to extreme depression and suicidal thoughts. Thankfully in Canada we have different medications for mental illness, and depression can be considered to be one.
In conclusion, “The Kite Runner” is a really amazing novel, for incorporating so many brilliant ideas, which such a detailed and rich outlook on contemporary Middle Eastern culture. This is why Anthropology can evaluate the novel so well. Through analysing the novels various settings, races and dialect, a lot can be learned.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
The American Medical System is Sick-O (Sicko Journal)
Michael Moore’s controversial documentary, “Sicko” tries to prove to the viewer just how horrible the American medical system really is. In The United States, health care is not Universal, or free. To receive treatment you must be paying health insurance, or else paying your own money on treatments. This is very impractical, because he majority of people cannot afford the insanely expensive care when they really need it. To convey his message, our ambitious (though obese) film maker used very emotional heart pulling stories of real people struggling, as well as contrasting the difference between the capitalistic system in the United States and the ease of the free universal systems in Europe.
This powerful film truly made it impossible to argue that this medicalization can be a bad thing. After showing numerous examples of how bad the American system can be for average people, such as an elder janitor forced to keep working in order to allow his family to have the insurance, or a man who cut off two fingers and had to decide which one to get re-attached. Yes all of these stories were meant to really pull at the viewers hearts, but the fact remains that this is a truly enormous issue. Life can be tough for everyone, but one thing that can’t be messed around with is your health. What’s even worse is the main reason behind the denial of care is so that others can PROFIT! Even though that is the way capitalism works, it just doesn’t seem right. If personally you could offer help, I’d like to think pretty much anyone would. However when dealing with large medical corporations who don’t even see the people, its easy to see how they would forget their “customers’” dire situations. Corporations were created for the sole purpose of making huge profits, and for this, they really shouldn’t be in control of any form of health products. Even over the counter drugs is pushing it, as the movie showed just how cheap some products were in Cuba. Health and Medicine just seems like something the Government has to handle. The Government controls the army, to protect the citizens, and should also control the medicine to protect the citizens from DISEASE.
The film also showed just how silly the idea of paying for health care seemed to people in Britain or France, and how happy they seemed to be, just knowing no matter what happens to them, they can be taken care of. It seemed fantastic, although I already LOVE British people! Canada’s system is a lot closer to this, which made me feel happy and secure. The security part seems really important, as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs states that before you can feel truly happy and reach your full potential, you must fulfill basic needs such as hunger and safety. Americans always seem really proud about their country, which is a good thing, but they really should give Sicko a good watch and think about how it can become even better.
This powerful film truly made it impossible to argue that this medicalization can be a bad thing. After showing numerous examples of how bad the American system can be for average people, such as an elder janitor forced to keep working in order to allow his family to have the insurance, or a man who cut off two fingers and had to decide which one to get re-attached. Yes all of these stories were meant to really pull at the viewers hearts, but the fact remains that this is a truly enormous issue. Life can be tough for everyone, but one thing that can’t be messed around with is your health. What’s even worse is the main reason behind the denial of care is so that others can PROFIT! Even though that is the way capitalism works, it just doesn’t seem right. If personally you could offer help, I’d like to think pretty much anyone would. However when dealing with large medical corporations who don’t even see the people, its easy to see how they would forget their “customers’” dire situations. Corporations were created for the sole purpose of making huge profits, and for this, they really shouldn’t be in control of any form of health products. Even over the counter drugs is pushing it, as the movie showed just how cheap some products were in Cuba. Health and Medicine just seems like something the Government has to handle. The Government controls the army, to protect the citizens, and should also control the medicine to protect the citizens from DISEASE.
The film also showed just how silly the idea of paying for health care seemed to people in Britain or France, and how happy they seemed to be, just knowing no matter what happens to them, they can be taken care of. It seemed fantastic, although I already LOVE British people! Canada’s system is a lot closer to this, which made me feel happy and secure. The security part seems really important, as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs states that before you can feel truly happy and reach your full potential, you must fulfill basic needs such as hunger and safety. Americans always seem really proud about their country, which is a good thing, but they really should give Sicko a good watch and think about how it can become even better.
An Awesome Birthday Boy's Awesome Presentation (And the Whole Group) Free Journal #7
Ok so first want to say, walking in to soc and hearing Black Sheep Boy playing was probably the coolest thing ever! Was also super weird, cause I’ve been listening to it almost nonstop for the past few days. Its soooo good, when it hits you, it really hits you hard! Works as a whole better then any other Okkervil album, extremely brilliant. Also, thought I should say that even though Lost Coastlines is super amazing and catchy, I think my favourite Okkervil song of all is A Girl in Port, from the Stage Names. So far no ones agreed with me on that, but I love it!
Another thing is...Its Brandon’s Birthday!!!! He is suchhhhh a hero, going to get a BILLION facebook comments and high fives! (HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAN) But it was also his day to present about Gay Marriage, as I mentioned yesterday. So how has the INTENSE presentation changed me? Well first I should talk about the presentation itself. Was really solid and interesting, trying to explain the true definition of a marriage, learning about “da bishop” and also proposition 8. I didn’t find the two videos as funny as they were hyped up to be though! Just the awkwardness of the cute girl questioning the gay couple was supposed to be super funny, but I wasn’t feeling it. I always thought Arnold Schwarttzenbacker (My Govna can beat up your Govna) was doing like crazy awesome things for California, however I didn’t think they were trying to ban gay marriages. Seems pretty unfair!
The discussion part went about the same way as usual and was pretty interesting. I kinda imagined it would have been funnier though, after hearing Jordan yesterday. Today though he wasn’t there, and so it was more typical. The main point brought up was that perhaps if religion is in control of the term and meaning of marriage, then the government should make a replacement civil union under a different name for gay couples. However is this really fair? It seems like it is definitely a form of discrimination, but still as long as they can live together, receive the same benefits etc is it really worth fighting for? After all being married is just a title. Yes, there is some security in it, but it has lost some of its importance over the years, with a laughably high rate of divorce. Most of the class seemed to agree with the idea that gay marriage should be allowed, however the more specifics behind this were still under debate. I think Jessica Little (NOT Brandon’s sister!) had some interesting points about cohabilitation, though now its all slightly fuzzy.
Anyways, pretty awesome presentation to end the year off with, so sad that there is only 2 classes left though! Going to miss this class.
Another thing is...Its Brandon’s Birthday!!!! He is suchhhhh a hero, going to get a BILLION facebook comments and high fives! (HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAN) But it was also his day to present about Gay Marriage, as I mentioned yesterday. So how has the INTENSE presentation changed me? Well first I should talk about the presentation itself. Was really solid and interesting, trying to explain the true definition of a marriage, learning about “da bishop” and also proposition 8. I didn’t find the two videos as funny as they were hyped up to be though! Just the awkwardness of the cute girl questioning the gay couple was supposed to be super funny, but I wasn’t feeling it. I always thought Arnold Schwarttzenbacker (My Govna can beat up your Govna) was doing like crazy awesome things for California, however I didn’t think they were trying to ban gay marriages. Seems pretty unfair!
The discussion part went about the same way as usual and was pretty interesting. I kinda imagined it would have been funnier though, after hearing Jordan yesterday. Today though he wasn’t there, and so it was more typical. The main point brought up was that perhaps if religion is in control of the term and meaning of marriage, then the government should make a replacement civil union under a different name for gay couples. However is this really fair? It seems like it is definitely a form of discrimination, but still as long as they can live together, receive the same benefits etc is it really worth fighting for? After all being married is just a title. Yes, there is some security in it, but it has lost some of its importance over the years, with a laughably high rate of divorce. Most of the class seemed to agree with the idea that gay marriage should be allowed, however the more specifics behind this were still under debate. I think Jessica Little (NOT Brandon’s sister!) had some interesting points about cohabilitation, though now its all slightly fuzzy.
Anyways, pretty awesome presentation to end the year off with, so sad that there is only 2 classes left though! Going to miss this class.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Best Presentation Everrrrr Coming Soon! (Free Journal #6)
Since I’ve beasted up a whole bunch of soc stuff lately, almost a 2 a night schedule, I’m thinking maybe tonight (The night before Brandon, Ashneet and Kayla’s intense presentation) I will write about my thoughts on their topic. Then afterwards, tomorrow I’ll do another journal on how their life changingly awesome presentation effected my views. Their topic is going to be same sex marriage.
I guess in order to comment on same sex marriage, I need to first say how I feel about homosexuality. Its a tough call, in all honestly. For the record I’m SUPER straight. I sometimes make gay jokes, like just silly comments like everyone I guess, like saying “thats so GAY!” or “what are you, GAY?” (not that there's anything wrong with that) But I’m not really a hater, although this year really helped me become more accepting. Someone I knew since grade 7 was apparently gay for sure, and I was like WHATTTTTT EWWWWW! And then I was always afraid he was checking me out, and would constantly try and make sure my collar was super closed. But then finally I decided nawww he’s still the same guy, there whas just no whey! I was in like a crazy amount denial, but then that became an acceptance I guess. I just knew, if I turned around my butt wasn’t being eye raped...thats for the ladies to do! This is really hard to explain, but I guess simply over time it became cool. (Wow that story turned out bland, not funny without names and backstory, my bad)
So should same sex marriage be allowed? Well why not?? Its not really interfering with anyone else’s business, its their own personal relationship. Not hurting anyone else. I think society should learn to overcome their dislike over the idea, or else just mind their own business. That doesn’t sound too practical, but I guess that’s what we have to strive towards.
However should they be able to adopt children?? This was something we talked about today, and there are some good arguments on either side. The children will likely learn to be more accepting of others, in many different minority groups, however might also be more likely to become homosexual themselves, which is still against the norm. Furthermore I guess people could argue, “Is it right to have 2 dads, or 2 moms?” A family is a really important agent of socialization, and if it is too disrupted, could have major consequences. It works really well because the child gets both a mother and a father as a role model. Having two of the same parent, when the majority of others have a man and a woman could really change things. Still, there have been so many changes to the types of families in modern days maybe it could still work.
Anyways, super excited!!! Good Luck Guys!!!
I guess in order to comment on same sex marriage, I need to first say how I feel about homosexuality. Its a tough call, in all honestly. For the record I’m SUPER straight. I sometimes make gay jokes, like just silly comments like everyone I guess, like saying “thats so GAY!” or “what are you, GAY?” (not that there's anything wrong with that) But I’m not really a hater, although this year really helped me become more accepting. Someone I knew since grade 7 was apparently gay for sure, and I was like WHATTTTTT EWWWWW! And then I was always afraid he was checking me out, and would constantly try and make sure my collar was super closed. But then finally I decided nawww he’s still the same guy, there whas just no whey! I was in like a crazy amount denial, but then that became an acceptance I guess. I just knew, if I turned around my butt wasn’t being eye raped...thats for the ladies to do! This is really hard to explain, but I guess simply over time it became cool. (Wow that story turned out bland, not funny without names and backstory, my bad)
So should same sex marriage be allowed? Well why not?? Its not really interfering with anyone else’s business, its their own personal relationship. Not hurting anyone else. I think society should learn to overcome their dislike over the idea, or else just mind their own business. That doesn’t sound too practical, but I guess that’s what we have to strive towards.
However should they be able to adopt children?? This was something we talked about today, and there are some good arguments on either side. The children will likely learn to be more accepting of others, in many different minority groups, however might also be more likely to become homosexual themselves, which is still against the norm. Furthermore I guess people could argue, “Is it right to have 2 dads, or 2 moms?” A family is a really important agent of socialization, and if it is too disrupted, could have major consequences. It works really well because the child gets both a mother and a father as a role model. Having two of the same parent, when the majority of others have a man and a woman could really change things. Still, there have been so many changes to the types of families in modern days maybe it could still work.
Anyways, super excited!!! Good Luck Guys!!!
The Tallest Man, In Your Eyes Babe (The Why of the Y)
Song: The Gardner - The Tallest Man on Earth
Album: Shallow Graves (2008)
http://www.mediafire.com/?etvjqbb7xsi
Lyrics to The Gardner :
I sense a runner in the garden
Although my judgements known to fail
Once built a steamboat in a meadow
Cos I'd forgotten how to sail
I know the runner's going to tell you
There ain't no cowboy in my hair
So now he's buried by the daisies
So I could stay the tallest man in your eyes, babe
I sense a spy up in the chimney
From all the evidence I've burned
I guess he'll read it in the smoke now
And soon to ashes I'll return
I know the spy is going to tell you
It's not my flag up in the pole
So now he's buried by the lilies
So I could stay forever more in your eyes, babe
I sense a leak inside my phone now
From all the lies I have told
I know he has your private number
And soon he'll make that vicious call
I know the leak is going to tell you
There ain't now puppy in your leash
So now he'll fertilize the roses
So I could stay the king you see
In your eyes, babe (x2)
So now we're dancing through the garden
And what a garden I have made
And now that death will grow my jasmine
I find it soothing I'm afraid
Now there is no need for suspicion
There ain't no frog kissing your hand
I won't be lying when I tell you
That I'm a gardner I'm a man
In your eyes babe (x3)
http://www.lyricsmania.com/lyrics/tallest_man_on_earth_the_lyrics_46166/other_lyrics_82681/the_gardner_lyrics_818435.html
After the Second World War, the world was in desperate need of repopulation, the economy was extremely prosperous, and many soldiers were returning home. This led to the largest baby boom in history. The boomer generation was immensely influential in bringing about social change, to suit every stage in their lifestyle, seeing as they had the numbers to demand it. More recently however, the baby boomers, also referred to as Generation X have moved on to having their own families, and their children have grown up to become Generation Y (also known as the cool generation). This means that I fit into the tail end of this echo boom generation (1977 -1994)
Music can be a very powerful tool for sociologists to gain valuable information on the background of different groups. After all the music is often recorded by members of the particular group, or otherwise for them. Music can be considered both art, for its beauty and ability to speak to the soul and literature for often deep meaning lyrical passages. For these reasons, it is clear that songs can be a strong tool for analysis. But which song speaks about the Y generation the most?
As the title page spoiled, that song would be The Gardner by the Tallest Man on Earth. Although he may not really be the tallest man on Earth, Kristian Matsson is a very talented Swedish Folk artist. His newest album, Shallow Graves just came out last year, so it fits in to present day very nicely. The Gardner tells the story of a man who constantly struggles to cover up the truth about lies he told to his girlfriend, for the purpose of making himself look more impressive. He buries all of the people / security leaks in his garden, where at the end the two are dancing. (On a side note, the deeper meanings of this song became clear to me after several listens during the Easter Break, when I was dieing of the Swine Flu) This story as well as the music behind it says a lot about my generation, in the following ways.
The second passage of the song is “I know the runner's going to tell you/ There ain't no cowboy in my hair/ So now he's buried by the daisies/ So I could stay the tallest man in your eyes, babe.” This section is one of several passages describing the ways in which he committed purgery or murder in order to keep the truth about himself from the woman he loves. I think this says a lot about our generation because we truly do take our image quite seriously. Its easy to see this through how we dress, always focussing on wearing designer names, which are often a lot more expensive and come from the United States. I know I feel a little bit bad for wearing “American” Eagle, but I guess our culture is really “Americanized” through the media, and our close proximity to the border. Being online all the time also plays a part in this. Our generation is in much closer contact to people all around the world then any other time. But this also brings dangers, like online predators, as almost anything can be found about us through social networks like “Facebook” or “Twitter” Cell phones also contribute to this, so getting back to the song "I sense a leak inside my phone now / From all the lies that I have told." I have noticed that things you say about people sometimes spread realllly quick, especially with texts. You never know who is overlooking what you read if you send something private, or if the receiving person then tells someone else about it then you have a problem. Our generation has always felt more connected to their friends or family, as there can be instant communication, no matter what each person is doing.
When I hear, "So now he's buried by the lilies/ So I could stay forever more in your eyes, babe", I continue to think about what would make him go so far to try and appear to be better. Again this ties in to the fact that our generation can be extremely vain. This is a reason why there are so many cases of eating disorders and other problems. I think this stems from the way the media of modern day portrays people. We always try and look more beautiful then we were meant to, and sometimes go to extremes. So for this reason, in the song, the character feels the need to cover up the truth and stay on top. I also think a reason for this is because we are living under the shadow of the baby boomer generation. They played such a significant social role, and now make up the majority of the population, but we have to one day take over their role, and become even better business people or entrepreneurs. Trying to find even better innovations can be very difficult or stressful.
The second last verse of the song says "And now that death will grow my jasmine /I find it soothing I'm afraid." I think this says that our generation is much more able to cope with death. So much time has passed since the second world war and the cold war, that we are more comfortable with the idea that nuclear destruction is a threat, but not a dire one. This is why on TV you can have shows where a nuclear explosion isn’t really an end game. Its a huge event, but not the most horrifying thing that perhaps wouldn’t have made it on the air before. For example the new Battlestar Galactica begins with the nuclear destruction of all 12 human planets, also 24 has a nuclear bomb going off in Los Angeles. We have also witnessed so many other terrible things such as genocides and 9-11 that we are more able to cope with violence in the media. We have been desensitized to a much greater extent then ever before, and it is easy to see the difference comparing movies or Tv shows of today with those of the 60’s or 70’s.
Finally, the last verse always stood out to me, it goes "Now there is no need for suspicion/There ain't no frog kissing your hand/I won't be lying when I tell you
/That I'm a Gardner I'm a man /In your eyes babe (x3)" He means that he has covered everything up so well, that he has become the prince instead of the frog, and that everything seems to have worked out in his own twisted garden. However he says that he is the “Gardner” not the Gardener, which is another reference to how he has guarded the real him and even though they are together, it is all fake. I think reasons like this are why our generation has had a huge amount of struggles with marriage and divorce. The divorce rates are incredibly high, and we often end up marrying several different partners over our lives. Sometimes we speed relationships up too fast, as the amount of time spent living at home has increased due to inflated education. Another important point is that we have a high rate of cohabilitation, however statistically (learned from old soc class) marriages after cohabilitating for a while are more likely to fail. Maybe we see things too short term, are always focussed on the now and not to the future. This is really bad though, as it plays an extremely negative role on the children of the future. The Z generation!
In conclusion, I think “The Gardner” says a lot about some of the negative aspects of the Y-Generation, who we are vs. who we want to be, why we sometimes lie or cheat, how we can deal with so much violence in the media, when we get married and then quickly down the line a divorce and what impact that has. That is a lot of W’s + an H!
Album: Shallow Graves (2008)
http://www.mediafire.com/?etvjqbb7xsi
Lyrics to The Gardner :
I sense a runner in the garden
Although my judgements known to fail
Once built a steamboat in a meadow
Cos I'd forgotten how to sail
I know the runner's going to tell you
There ain't no cowboy in my hair
So now he's buried by the daisies
So I could stay the tallest man in your eyes, babe
I sense a spy up in the chimney
From all the evidence I've burned
I guess he'll read it in the smoke now
And soon to ashes I'll return
I know the spy is going to tell you
It's not my flag up in the pole
So now he's buried by the lilies
So I could stay forever more in your eyes, babe
I sense a leak inside my phone now
From all the lies I have told
I know he has your private number
And soon he'll make that vicious call
I know the leak is going to tell you
There ain't now puppy in your leash
So now he'll fertilize the roses
So I could stay the king you see
In your eyes, babe (x2)
So now we're dancing through the garden
And what a garden I have made
And now that death will grow my jasmine
I find it soothing I'm afraid
Now there is no need for suspicion
There ain't no frog kissing your hand
I won't be lying when I tell you
That I'm a gardner I'm a man
In your eyes babe (x3)
http://www.lyricsmania.com/lyrics/tallest_man_on_earth_the_lyrics_46166/other_lyrics_82681/the_gardner_lyrics_818435.html
After the Second World War, the world was in desperate need of repopulation, the economy was extremely prosperous, and many soldiers were returning home. This led to the largest baby boom in history. The boomer generation was immensely influential in bringing about social change, to suit every stage in their lifestyle, seeing as they had the numbers to demand it. More recently however, the baby boomers, also referred to as Generation X have moved on to having their own families, and their children have grown up to become Generation Y (also known as the cool generation). This means that I fit into the tail end of this echo boom generation (1977 -1994)
Music can be a very powerful tool for sociologists to gain valuable information on the background of different groups. After all the music is often recorded by members of the particular group, or otherwise for them. Music can be considered both art, for its beauty and ability to speak to the soul and literature for often deep meaning lyrical passages. For these reasons, it is clear that songs can be a strong tool for analysis. But which song speaks about the Y generation the most?
As the title page spoiled, that song would be The Gardner by the Tallest Man on Earth. Although he may not really be the tallest man on Earth, Kristian Matsson is a very talented Swedish Folk artist. His newest album, Shallow Graves just came out last year, so it fits in to present day very nicely. The Gardner tells the story of a man who constantly struggles to cover up the truth about lies he told to his girlfriend, for the purpose of making himself look more impressive. He buries all of the people / security leaks in his garden, where at the end the two are dancing. (On a side note, the deeper meanings of this song became clear to me after several listens during the Easter Break, when I was dieing of the Swine Flu) This story as well as the music behind it says a lot about my generation, in the following ways.
The second passage of the song is “I know the runner's going to tell you/ There ain't no cowboy in my hair/ So now he's buried by the daisies/ So I could stay the tallest man in your eyes, babe.” This section is one of several passages describing the ways in which he committed purgery or murder in order to keep the truth about himself from the woman he loves. I think this says a lot about our generation because we truly do take our image quite seriously. Its easy to see this through how we dress, always focussing on wearing designer names, which are often a lot more expensive and come from the United States. I know I feel a little bit bad for wearing “American” Eagle, but I guess our culture is really “Americanized” through the media, and our close proximity to the border. Being online all the time also plays a part in this. Our generation is in much closer contact to people all around the world then any other time. But this also brings dangers, like online predators, as almost anything can be found about us through social networks like “Facebook” or “Twitter” Cell phones also contribute to this, so getting back to the song "I sense a leak inside my phone now / From all the lies that I have told." I have noticed that things you say about people sometimes spread realllly quick, especially with texts. You never know who is overlooking what you read if you send something private, or if the receiving person then tells someone else about it then you have a problem. Our generation has always felt more connected to their friends or family, as there can be instant communication, no matter what each person is doing.
When I hear, "So now he's buried by the lilies/ So I could stay forever more in your eyes, babe", I continue to think about what would make him go so far to try and appear to be better. Again this ties in to the fact that our generation can be extremely vain. This is a reason why there are so many cases of eating disorders and other problems. I think this stems from the way the media of modern day portrays people. We always try and look more beautiful then we were meant to, and sometimes go to extremes. So for this reason, in the song, the character feels the need to cover up the truth and stay on top. I also think a reason for this is because we are living under the shadow of the baby boomer generation. They played such a significant social role, and now make up the majority of the population, but we have to one day take over their role, and become even better business people or entrepreneurs. Trying to find even better innovations can be very difficult or stressful.
The second last verse of the song says "And now that death will grow my jasmine /I find it soothing I'm afraid." I think this says that our generation is much more able to cope with death. So much time has passed since the second world war and the cold war, that we are more comfortable with the idea that nuclear destruction is a threat, but not a dire one. This is why on TV you can have shows where a nuclear explosion isn’t really an end game. Its a huge event, but not the most horrifying thing that perhaps wouldn’t have made it on the air before. For example the new Battlestar Galactica begins with the nuclear destruction of all 12 human planets, also 24 has a nuclear bomb going off in Los Angeles. We have also witnessed so many other terrible things such as genocides and 9-11 that we are more able to cope with violence in the media. We have been desensitized to a much greater extent then ever before, and it is easy to see the difference comparing movies or Tv shows of today with those of the 60’s or 70’s.
Finally, the last verse always stood out to me, it goes "Now there is no need for suspicion/There ain't no frog kissing your hand/I won't be lying when I tell you
/That I'm a Gardner I'm a man /In your eyes babe (x3)" He means that he has covered everything up so well, that he has become the prince instead of the frog, and that everything seems to have worked out in his own twisted garden. However he says that he is the “Gardner” not the Gardener, which is another reference to how he has guarded the real him and even though they are together, it is all fake. I think reasons like this are why our generation has had a huge amount of struggles with marriage and divorce. The divorce rates are incredibly high, and we often end up marrying several different partners over our lives. Sometimes we speed relationships up too fast, as the amount of time spent living at home has increased due to inflated education. Another important point is that we have a high rate of cohabilitation, however statistically (learned from old soc class) marriages after cohabilitating for a while are more likely to fail. Maybe we see things too short term, are always focussed on the now and not to the future. This is really bad though, as it plays an extremely negative role on the children of the future. The Z generation!
In conclusion, I think “The Gardner” says a lot about some of the negative aspects of the Y-Generation, who we are vs. who we want to be, why we sometimes lie or cheat, how we can deal with so much violence in the media, when we get married and then quickly down the line a divorce and what impact that has. That is a lot of W’s + an H!
Superman was adopted! And He Turned Out Just Fine! (Free Journal #5)
Today’s presentation was by Ashley and Katie, about adoption. First I’d like to say, this was one Jess wanted our group to do, and me being super chilled was thinking kayy. After doing our presentation about uniforms and seeing this one, I’m happy that we didn’t take on adoption. For 3/4’s of the presentation it kind of lost my interest, not so much because of Ashley or Katie, but because I can’t really imagine the feelings involved in being adopted. Their serious tone towards the issue made it very informative, but even still, I’ll never really be able to relate. All I know about adoption is Superman was adopted...
Hearing Ashley’s stories about her brothers being adopted was pretty cool though. I never knew too much about her family and stuff (other then her younger brother ripped up all of her calc tests!) So this really added a personal touch that quite a few presentations we lacking. I’m still not totally sure about what the difference between an open and a closed adoption is, but I do know that when celebrities adopt children, they tend to give them some of the STUPIDEST names. I guess they name their biological children weird things too.(http://www.cracked.com/article_15765_20-most-bizarre-celebrity-baby-names.html. Cracked tells me that Nick Cage’s son is named Kal-El (Speaking of superman...) “Brangelina” named their son Maddox and Michael Jackson named his son Blanket!
The best part of the debate happened during the question “Should same sex-marriage couples be allowed to adopt a child?” This led to a heated discussion between Jordan and Willow about the issue, as well as how smart children really are at the young age of 6. After some hilarious comments, and a super ranting Willow, we came to the realization that in the end it is a very difficult thing for parents of adopted children to decide when to tell them the truth. We also learned that sometimes you shouldn’t really voice your opinions if they are openly offensive. Another then was that facebook can be a good way to continue arguments. Oh also what’s up with “T” uterus’s.... you’d need a curvy wiener??
Hearing Ashley’s stories about her brothers being adopted was pretty cool though. I never knew too much about her family and stuff (other then her younger brother ripped up all of her calc tests!) So this really added a personal touch that quite a few presentations we lacking. I’m still not totally sure about what the difference between an open and a closed adoption is, but I do know that when celebrities adopt children, they tend to give them some of the STUPIDEST names. I guess they name their biological children weird things too.(http://www.cracked.com/article_15765_20-most-bizarre-celebrity-baby-names.html. Cracked tells me that Nick Cage’s son is named Kal-El (Speaking of superman...) “Brangelina” named their son Maddox and Michael Jackson named his son Blanket!
The best part of the debate happened during the question “Should same sex-marriage couples be allowed to adopt a child?” This led to a heated discussion between Jordan and Willow about the issue, as well as how smart children really are at the young age of 6. After some hilarious comments, and a super ranting Willow, we came to the realization that in the end it is a very difficult thing for parents of adopted children to decide when to tell them the truth. We also learned that sometimes you shouldn’t really voice your opinions if they are openly offensive. Another then was that facebook can be a good way to continue arguments. Oh also what’s up with “T” uterus’s.... you’d need a curvy wiener??
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Steve Martinhood (The Movie Parenthood) Writers Cramp is the Suck!
Films can be a great medium for sociologists to analyse and gain a better understanding of different groups in a society. This is especially true as “films are created by and about people in particular social and historical contexts”. (Robert J. Brym) The 1989 film “Parenthood“, which was nominated for 2 Oscars, excelled at this by offering several distinct snapshots at family life Both the parents and the children were characterised extremely well and their struggles and conflicts were evaluated over the course of the movie. Each of these stories showed many insights on the modern family life and provided commentary on what it really means to be a parent.
The main family in the movie was the most historically standard, a nuclear family, where both parents are living with their own children in the same house. The father in this case is Gil Buckman, played by the extremely entertaining Steve Martin. Gil is an average man, who simply hoped to not raise his children the same way his father Frank raised himself. This was explained in the very opening scene which was a flashback to how as a child he was left by his father at a baseball game to be watched by the usher. Gil is very loving and caring and always wants to be there for his kids, in a positive fashion however in doing this he gets extremely uptight and worried. This new problem transfers to his older son Kevin and Gil tries his hardest to help him through his problems. This leads to some really funny situations such as when he pretends to be cowboy Dan at Kevin’s birthday party. However it also leads to one of the movies main messages. Gil learns that “Life is like a rollercoaster” and even though there are some really low points, there's also amazing high points, but overall the craziness and excitement is the adrenaline rush needed to keep life exciting and worth living.
Another family shown is that of Gil’s sister Helen Buckman and her sons and daughters. This is much different as she is a single mother. Single parent families are very common now due to a very high divorce rate, and so her stories are very emotional, but the tie in with Keanu Reeves also makes it really funny. First, her son who has a lack of a father figure is very disobedient and delinquent (Lief - Joaquin- Phoenix plays him, I guess he also must have had some issues..) He wants to meet his father really badly, however is turned down and feels like there is nowhere to turn to. However Helen’s daughter Julie is thinking of committing to Tod, (Keanu - before entering the Matrix ---> This movie came out the same year as Bill and Ted‘s EXCELLENT adventure, which explains a lot) and has her own problems in straightening out that relationship. Tod however proves to be an insightful man and helps young Garry, in an extremely brilliant scene. “That is one messed up little dude!” He also says “You know, Mrs. Buckman, you need a license to buy a dog, or drive a car. Hell, you need a license to catch a fish! But they'll let any butt-reaming asshole be a father.” This speech brings up a really strong point, why is it that there is no test to become a parent. I guess this is because it is just a natural part of life, or maybe too taboo, or low fertilities. However, this is another main idea of the movie, that parents are just people too and even though they must shoulder a lot of responsibility, they aren’t going to be perfect. Even Rick Morannis’s extremely smart (though thankfully not shrunk) daughter seemed to have some social issues in the film. He was so focussed on her education that he lost track of her and his wife’s feelings.
Finally, Gil’s troubled brother Larry was a significant plot in the movie. He was younger then the rest of the family, however had the largest set of problems. He was thousands of dollars in debt from gambling, and had just realized he had a son of his own, named “cool!” His father Frank was then forced with the choice of trying to help him, a huge financial burden, or leave him with the risk of being killed. In the end Frank decides to bail him out, but make him learn his business and one day take over the company. However in the end Larry leaves on another get rich quest and cool is left to live with his grandpa. In one speech Frank explains how being a parent doesn’t just end when the children grow up, it lasts forever. You can’t just expect to abandon your children when they reach 18, they will always be your children. The roles may continue to change, and perhaps eventually reverse with the child becoming the caregiver, however you will always be connected, through all the ups and downs as described earlier.
In conclusion, I think the movie Parenthood humorously highlights the true facts about being a parent. In the end, there really is no “perfect” parent, or child. It shows that families last forever, and the life cycle will always continue and stick together for better or worse, through all the ups and downs. Family is one of the most important institutions in society and is extremely important to look at. This movie is definitely underlooked, because it brings both humour and a brilliant message to the audience.
The main family in the movie was the most historically standard, a nuclear family, where both parents are living with their own children in the same house. The father in this case is Gil Buckman, played by the extremely entertaining Steve Martin. Gil is an average man, who simply hoped to not raise his children the same way his father Frank raised himself. This was explained in the very opening scene which was a flashback to how as a child he was left by his father at a baseball game to be watched by the usher. Gil is very loving and caring and always wants to be there for his kids, in a positive fashion however in doing this he gets extremely uptight and worried. This new problem transfers to his older son Kevin and Gil tries his hardest to help him through his problems. This leads to some really funny situations such as when he pretends to be cowboy Dan at Kevin’s birthday party. However it also leads to one of the movies main messages. Gil learns that “Life is like a rollercoaster” and even though there are some really low points, there's also amazing high points, but overall the craziness and excitement is the adrenaline rush needed to keep life exciting and worth living.
Another family shown is that of Gil’s sister Helen Buckman and her sons and daughters. This is much different as she is a single mother. Single parent families are very common now due to a very high divorce rate, and so her stories are very emotional, but the tie in with Keanu Reeves also makes it really funny. First, her son who has a lack of a father figure is very disobedient and delinquent (Lief - Joaquin- Phoenix plays him, I guess he also must have had some issues..) He wants to meet his father really badly, however is turned down and feels like there is nowhere to turn to. However Helen’s daughter Julie is thinking of committing to Tod, (Keanu - before entering the Matrix ---> This movie came out the same year as Bill and Ted‘s EXCELLENT adventure, which explains a lot) and has her own problems in straightening out that relationship. Tod however proves to be an insightful man and helps young Garry, in an extremely brilliant scene. “That is one messed up little dude!” He also says “You know, Mrs. Buckman, you need a license to buy a dog, or drive a car. Hell, you need a license to catch a fish! But they'll let any butt-reaming asshole be a father.” This speech brings up a really strong point, why is it that there is no test to become a parent. I guess this is because it is just a natural part of life, or maybe too taboo, or low fertilities. However, this is another main idea of the movie, that parents are just people too and even though they must shoulder a lot of responsibility, they aren’t going to be perfect. Even Rick Morannis’s extremely smart (though thankfully not shrunk) daughter seemed to have some social issues in the film. He was so focussed on her education that he lost track of her and his wife’s feelings.
Finally, Gil’s troubled brother Larry was a significant plot in the movie. He was younger then the rest of the family, however had the largest set of problems. He was thousands of dollars in debt from gambling, and had just realized he had a son of his own, named “cool!” His father Frank was then forced with the choice of trying to help him, a huge financial burden, or leave him with the risk of being killed. In the end Frank decides to bail him out, but make him learn his business and one day take over the company. However in the end Larry leaves on another get rich quest and cool is left to live with his grandpa. In one speech Frank explains how being a parent doesn’t just end when the children grow up, it lasts forever. You can’t just expect to abandon your children when they reach 18, they will always be your children. The roles may continue to change, and perhaps eventually reverse with the child becoming the caregiver, however you will always be connected, through all the ups and downs as described earlier.
In conclusion, I think the movie Parenthood humorously highlights the true facts about being a parent. In the end, there really is no “perfect” parent, or child. It shows that families last forever, and the life cycle will always continue and stick together for better or worse, through all the ups and downs. Family is one of the most important institutions in society and is extremely important to look at. This movie is definitely underlooked, because it brings both humour and a brilliant message to the audience.
My Momma Don't Want Me Havin No Babbies, But I Guess Same Goes For Everyones Mommas! (Low Fertility)
Low Fertility is a topic we were learning about sometime between parenthood and breast feeding. A long FIVE page article was read to emphasize some of the statistics about modern fertility rates that have been scaring demographers recently. The intro explains how countries such as Germany, Italy (Mr. S’s sanctuary) and Japan have low fertility rates of 1.6 . This is a considerable problem, as it takes 2 people to make a baby, and therefore in order to sustain the population, the average should be at least 2. (Also, making a 6th of a baby sounds BAD) However, the overall world population is still increasing rapidly. Shockingly, the projections for what the world’s population will be in 2100 is between 5.5 billion and 43.6 billion. I guess by then we will be flying spaceships and partying it up on Mars, but that’s still a HUGE number! The article also explains how these predictions can be very inaccurate, as the baby boom proved in the past.
The main factor towards low fertility is how the country deals with its people, not just the citizens on their own . In countries that are accepting to those having children, perhaps more so then marriage the population is increasing. However for those where co-habilitation is seen as a very negative thing then there is a stronger chance for decline. People will then live with their parents for longer before getting married and having their own family. This makes sense, as we learned a lot about idea in Family Studies soc. Countries with economic security and those that give large family benefits will also have high fertility rates. One other factor is “maternal role incompatibility” where countries that make it very hard on parents or women will have people having to chose between family or work, and this isn’t a good thing. This page of the article of 2 people crammed into small cubicles in an office, if I had to work like that I think I would freak out! Not saying low fertility is a good thing...but that is pretty CRAAAAMPED!
The fears section describes how that without sustaining the population, places like Italy could run out of people in 200 years (ouchh, sorry sir), unless others move in. “99% of population growth is coming from developing countries” Thats also a pretty crazy statistic. In these countries there is a massive youth population, yet no economy or work force strong enough to employ them. The picture of people protesting made me imagine how hard it must be for some people, trying to survive among 10 million others, with no jobs, and how they can come to other countries flooding the market. Reminds me of the south park episode where immigrants from the future came and everyone shouted “DEYTOOKREJERR” (slang for they took our jobs!) Another big fear has to due with the ages of the future population. If less children are born in developed countries, and the Boomers are living into much older years, how can we support them? Thankfully youtube has the answer to that! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17A3wD6Vx7g ....I found out about that robot from this video http://www.cracked.com/video_17156_7-robots-most-likely-rise-up-against-humanity.html. Ok hopefully that super lightened up the mood, the article goes on and on about this issue, offering solutions such as saying policies should be changed to promote more children being born and also how the age of dependency cap should probably be more realistically rethought out.
“Whether population declines, stabilizes, or grows more slowly, the change in age structure produced by lower fertility and longer life expectancy may be the most important demographic influence on sustainability..” I think this quote sums up the article, because in the end there is no clear prediction as to what the future will be like, and it will be a combination of all of these things to decide whether or not countries can sustain their population. Eventually we will come to an equilibrium, or end up killing each other (hopefully not) or move to space (as mentioned above!) but not knowing for sure keeps things interesting.
Article: “Low Fertility and Sustainability” - Martha Farnsworth Riche
Video I got my title from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uneIieUrgI
The main factor towards low fertility is how the country deals with its people, not just the citizens on their own . In countries that are accepting to those having children, perhaps more so then marriage the population is increasing. However for those where co-habilitation is seen as a very negative thing then there is a stronger chance for decline. People will then live with their parents for longer before getting married and having their own family. This makes sense, as we learned a lot about idea in Family Studies soc. Countries with economic security and those that give large family benefits will also have high fertility rates. One other factor is “maternal role incompatibility” where countries that make it very hard on parents or women will have people having to chose between family or work, and this isn’t a good thing. This page of the article of 2 people crammed into small cubicles in an office, if I had to work like that I think I would freak out! Not saying low fertility is a good thing...but that is pretty CRAAAAMPED!
The fears section describes how that without sustaining the population, places like Italy could run out of people in 200 years (ouchh, sorry sir), unless others move in. “99% of population growth is coming from developing countries” Thats also a pretty crazy statistic. In these countries there is a massive youth population, yet no economy or work force strong enough to employ them. The picture of people protesting made me imagine how hard it must be for some people, trying to survive among 10 million others, with no jobs, and how they can come to other countries flooding the market. Reminds me of the south park episode where immigrants from the future came and everyone shouted “DEYTOOKREJERR” (slang for they took our jobs!) Another big fear has to due with the ages of the future population. If less children are born in developed countries, and the Boomers are living into much older years, how can we support them? Thankfully youtube has the answer to that! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17A3wD6Vx7g ....I found out about that robot from this video http://www.cracked.com/video_17156_7-robots-most-likely-rise-up-against-humanity.html. Ok hopefully that super lightened up the mood, the article goes on and on about this issue, offering solutions such as saying policies should be changed to promote more children being born and also how the age of dependency cap should probably be more realistically rethought out.
“Whether population declines, stabilizes, or grows more slowly, the change in age structure produced by lower fertility and longer life expectancy may be the most important demographic influence on sustainability..” I think this quote sums up the article, because in the end there is no clear prediction as to what the future will be like, and it will be a combination of all of these things to decide whether or not countries can sustain their population. Eventually we will come to an equilibrium, or end up killing each other (hopefully not) or move to space (as mentioned above!) but not knowing for sure keeps things interesting.
Article: “Low Fertility and Sustainability” - Martha Farnsworth Riche
Video I got my title from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uneIieUrgI
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Hope I Never Get in a Car CRASH (Second Movie Review) First will be done soon...
The 2004 Oscar winning film “Crash” offers a brilliant outlook on many of the topics we have been discussing in our final unit. (Going to miss this class!) Racism and Prejudice were key sociological issues in class, and they were shockingly brought to life in the film. However Crash also focuses thematically on fate and how every small act plays a very significant part in the much bigger picture. All of the character’s separate stories are connected in very unexpected ways, leading to some really jaw dropping scenes. The title of the film is a metaphor for the idea that a car crash is an impact between complete strangers, both just going on their own way in there life. The opening line says “It's the sense of touch. In any real city, you walk, you know? You brush past people, people bump into you. In L.A., nobody touches you. We're always behind this metal and glass. I think we miss that touch so much, that we crash into each other, just so we can feel something.”
Many cases of prejudice are demonstrated in small cases throughout the movie, from all sides. Sandra Bullock’s character was over the top racist against the Mexican lock mechanic as well as her maid, which was extremely aggravating. (Also how could she marry Brendan Fraser, he is so bland) Another character like this is Matt Dillon as a white cop, angry at a black secretary for denying his father an insurance pass to see a new doctor (Sicko already taught us the health care system in the states is messed up) On the receiving end, Ludicris explains how its like to be a black man walking through the streets of life, saying “Look around! You couldn't find a whiter, safer or better lit part of this city. But this white woman sees two black guys, who look like UCLA students, strolling down the sidewalk and her reaction is blind fear. I mean, look at us! Are we dressed like gang-bangers? Huh? No. Do we look threatening? No. Fact, if anybody should be scared around here, it's us: We're the only two black faces surrounded by a sea of over-caffeinated white people, patrolled by the triggerhappy LAPD. So you tell me, why aren't we scared?” We also see how an Arab shop keeper is treated by others, and in turn how he treats people. For being constantly belittled about his race, he loses his trust in other people, and only really opens up to his family. The thing I really liked about many of these stories was that there was more then the just black and white picture. At some points you would feel like a certain character was a complete bastard, but at others you feel an understanding for them and their motivations. This is what truly distinguishes the movie and makes it more realistic. There is always a bigger picture for things in life, but seeing how it all fits together is how fate ties into the story.
All of the above acts of discrimination play major impact on the events of the film. This is because in life everything that happens to us changes who we are, in sometimes strange ways. Seeing how all the characters fit together in the movie is really amazing, and probably makes it worth seeing many other times. For example, the shopkeeper tries to seek vengeance on the locksmith, however (*SPOILERS*) the bullets bought during an argument at the very start of the film were blanks and didn’t hurt the poor daughter. Also Matt Dillon’s extremely horrible humiliation and molestation of a black woman at night, and finally his having to save her from a burning car and almost losing her in the end because of her fear of him was extremely powerful. I was extremely shocked also at the eventual murder of Ludicrous’ friend, by the nicer white cop, because he was pulling out his same statue of St Peter. “Officer Hanson: Something else funny?
Peter: [laughing] People, man... people.”
I felt the overall message of the film was that no matter what, you should treat others fairly, without racism or prejudice, since somewhere down the line we are all connected. I think this is very important, because sometimes we do allow our smaller differences to get into the way, and this ultimately hinders us from becoming a true multinational country, or global community. As we learned from the notes, maybe there really is no such thing as race, and we are all just human beings. Even though we have our own separate lives and problems to deal with, we can always be there to either help or harm one another, and working together is a lot better then killing one another. Another thing I noticed was that racism in the movie sort of went in a cycle. When one character of a different race hurt another, they would then be more racist towards the other characters. For example, Sandra Bullock says “Well I got scared and I didn't say anything and ten seconds later I had a [Jabbing her finger into Rick's chest]gun in my face. Now I am telling you, your amigo in there is gonna sell our key to one of his homies and this time it'd be really fucking great if you acted like you actually gave a shit!” This cycle definitely needs to stop.
Crash is definitely recommendable, for being really deep and metaphorical, having shocking scenes and some humour as well. On a side note, there is a special kind of hell for people who talk in the movie theatre, and I’d say that rule should apply for people who talk during in class movies. (Except when filling in what the characters are saying when there is no sound) Seriously though, the movie will piece itself together eventually, you just have to sit and wait for your mind to be blown. There is no need to ask “WHO DAT” ...even though perhaps maybe there were in some cases too many minor characters introduced at random times throughout the story. This was part of the movies effect however and worked out perfectly. People talked during the Watchmen premier too though, how weak is that? Anyways, CRASH: ***** <---5 stars, one of the best in class movies I’ve seen for sure.
Many cases of prejudice are demonstrated in small cases throughout the movie, from all sides. Sandra Bullock’s character was over the top racist against the Mexican lock mechanic as well as her maid, which was extremely aggravating. (Also how could she marry Brendan Fraser, he is so bland) Another character like this is Matt Dillon as a white cop, angry at a black secretary for denying his father an insurance pass to see a new doctor (Sicko already taught us the health care system in the states is messed up) On the receiving end, Ludicris explains how its like to be a black man walking through the streets of life, saying “Look around! You couldn't find a whiter, safer or better lit part of this city. But this white woman sees two black guys, who look like UCLA students, strolling down the sidewalk and her reaction is blind fear. I mean, look at us! Are we dressed like gang-bangers? Huh? No. Do we look threatening? No. Fact, if anybody should be scared around here, it's us: We're the only two black faces surrounded by a sea of over-caffeinated white people, patrolled by the triggerhappy LAPD. So you tell me, why aren't we scared?” We also see how an Arab shop keeper is treated by others, and in turn how he treats people. For being constantly belittled about his race, he loses his trust in other people, and only really opens up to his family. The thing I really liked about many of these stories was that there was more then the just black and white picture. At some points you would feel like a certain character was a complete bastard, but at others you feel an understanding for them and their motivations. This is what truly distinguishes the movie and makes it more realistic. There is always a bigger picture for things in life, but seeing how it all fits together is how fate ties into the story.
All of the above acts of discrimination play major impact on the events of the film. This is because in life everything that happens to us changes who we are, in sometimes strange ways. Seeing how all the characters fit together in the movie is really amazing, and probably makes it worth seeing many other times. For example, the shopkeeper tries to seek vengeance on the locksmith, however (*SPOILERS*) the bullets bought during an argument at the very start of the film were blanks and didn’t hurt the poor daughter. Also Matt Dillon’s extremely horrible humiliation and molestation of a black woman at night, and finally his having to save her from a burning car and almost losing her in the end because of her fear of him was extremely powerful. I was extremely shocked also at the eventual murder of Ludicrous’ friend, by the nicer white cop, because he was pulling out his same statue of St Peter. “Officer Hanson: Something else funny?
Peter: [laughing] People, man... people.”
I felt the overall message of the film was that no matter what, you should treat others fairly, without racism or prejudice, since somewhere down the line we are all connected. I think this is very important, because sometimes we do allow our smaller differences to get into the way, and this ultimately hinders us from becoming a true multinational country, or global community. As we learned from the notes, maybe there really is no such thing as race, and we are all just human beings. Even though we have our own separate lives and problems to deal with, we can always be there to either help or harm one another, and working together is a lot better then killing one another. Another thing I noticed was that racism in the movie sort of went in a cycle. When one character of a different race hurt another, they would then be more racist towards the other characters. For example, Sandra Bullock says “Well I got scared and I didn't say anything and ten seconds later I had a [Jabbing her finger into Rick's chest]gun in my face. Now I am telling you, your amigo in there is gonna sell our key to one of his homies and this time it'd be really fucking great if you acted like you actually gave a shit!” This cycle definitely needs to stop.
Crash is definitely recommendable, for being really deep and metaphorical, having shocking scenes and some humour as well. On a side note, there is a special kind of hell for people who talk in the movie theatre, and I’d say that rule should apply for people who talk during in class movies. (Except when filling in what the characters are saying when there is no sound) Seriously though, the movie will piece itself together eventually, you just have to sit and wait for your mind to be blown. There is no need to ask “WHO DAT” ...even though perhaps maybe there were in some cases too many minor characters introduced at random times throughout the story. This was part of the movies effect however and worked out perfectly. People talked during the Watchmen premier too though, how weak is that? Anyways, CRASH: ***** <---5 stars, one of the best in class movies I’ve seen for sure.
Unit #2 Take Home Test (3 questions) Saving the TREES!
To start, I kinda wanna apologize for this + a few other things being super late, both to teacher, self and internet (in case someone is reading this that I don't know of, if so I love you!) I think the class in general talked and complained about these questions for super long and thats why more time was needed. I know I was part of the problem too...but I wrote all of #1 in class, and felt pretty beastly. Then got home and got the writers cramp, as always! Also kinda wanna say, Unit 2 wasn't all that bad, the whole class is sort of meant to be disjointed with time devoted to reading, presentations or discussion. Just because the notes and basic school stuff doesn't seem to be working out doesn't mean we aren't actually learning a lot of interesting stuff! Everyone should lighten up :D So here's my test. 12 more things to write, I think I'm on a roll!!!
1. Socialization is intended to turn us into conforming members of society. As a result, we are under considerable pressure to “do the right thing.” Explain the actual social forces that push us to act appropriately and then consider how socialization would explain the numerous individuals, from white-collar criminals to wife abusers who deviate from the social norms.
Through Socialization, every member of a society, starting at an extremely young age, learns the appropriate values and norms required to participate and fit in with the rest of society. We all have strong tendencies to conform when in groups, for example in a classroom when every student things the answer is “B” and someone might think otherwise, they may be reluctant to voice their opinion and just agree until the teacher states the correct answer. However, in society there is an extremely numerous amount of individuals who can be considered deviant. These people, such as thieves, abusers and murderers are definitely not the type of people society had intended. So how is it that people can resist conformity into what is easily the largest of groups? To discuss this further, each of the agents of socialization must be examined.
First, the family, which is considered to be the primary agent of socialization. As a child, your main role models are your parents. A person learns to talk by mimicking their parents, as well as learns many appropriate behaviours through their disciplines. For example “Do not hit your sister...or else!” Clearly a lot of responsibility is placed on the parents in teaching their kids right from wrong, or in other words to “Do the right thing”. The major concern here is that parents are only human. They have their own conflicts which can greatly impact their children. If the child witnesses his father beating his mother, then logically there is a greater chance that he could grow up and do the same thing. Also, the divorce rate is so high in these modern times that the child could lose a role model completely.
For this children must seek other guidance from other agents of socialization. This includes school and to a lesser degree Television. School works strongly in socializing a person because it has teachers to lay down rules and boundaries, as well as peers or friends for them to compare themselves with. If everyone is wearing clean brand named clothing, then why shouldn’t you? School also allows people to develop their own identity separate from that of their parents. This is extremely significant because although this is normal, depending on how strong the relationship with the parents was (which further proves their significant role) the youth may want to break away even further and join a counter- culture like a gang.
Another source of socialization is religion, which is perhaps slightly losing strength present day. Religion teaches some faith as well as good morals to follow or live by. This can be quite helpful, but we have discussed whether or not religion is really morality or if humans are inherently evil. I always think back to William Golding’s “The Lord of the Flies” where when all trace of society was lost, the children became savages. Even with instilled morals, there always must be some sort of higher power watching over. Whether this is God, or the Government, people need to be kept in line. Maybe deviance is a result of people who in a state of rage or desperation misjudge the consequences of their actions or don’t care about the punishment.
2. Canadians are not all equally likely to become sick or to suffer an injury. Some are more likely to develop diseases or disabilities. Why do you think there are differences in the heath and illness of Canadians based on sex and class?
It is really easy to imagine class playing a factor in health and illness. Mr. Carm Sirianni once described going to the clinic, feeling out of place. (probably wearing a pimpin suit) Illness happens to everyone at some point in time, its just natural, however a person’s lifestyle plays great impact. Both Siriannis seem to be really people, and have complained about touching things from the bathroom. Being a teacher does potentially put you in contact with sick youths, but with some hand sanitizer and 11 steps to washing your hands, the overall illness isn’t that bad. In comparison to someone with a lower class job however there is a huge difference. Imagine, with school still as an example, working as a janitor. Cleaning up everyone else’s mess (as well as the bathroom) is a very easy way to get into contact with more germs, and therefore diseases. Another case could be those guys who stand on or beside ladders, fixing the school up. Falling off of that ladder would result in a pretty painful injury, and they have to face that chance every single day! Also people who work outside more have to face the environment, working in the rain can’t be good for your health, and too much heat can also be bad. In the article there was an example of a woman who had a lung problem do to inhaling exhaust fumes from a pickup truck. Maybe this could also be a problem for people who pick up the garbage, plus that stuff smells REALLLLY BAD! Another lifestyle issue I can imagine would have to do with the stress. If you struggle through life constantly worrying, trying to push through a mortgage payment or have enough food on the table for your family, that can wear at your health as well. The article states “The more you think about the test, the worse you are likely to feel - legitimating to yourself the need to claim the sick role.” It explains how since it can be hard to know for sure when you are sick, other factors in your life can lead to you basing that judgement, such as stress over a test pushing you towards fully taking on a sickness, or a big party keeping you away from it.
Sex also plays an issue, although a much less significant one in my opinion. Our society has been striving to break down the gender roles that could lead to differences in health, through lifestyle things mentioned above. Since women can pursue any career they wish, things shouldn’t be too bad. However the feminist perspective in the article argues that “phsicians don’t take women’s health complaints as seriously as men’s. As a result, women are operated on at a later stage in heart disease, making it more likely that they will die” Well dieing is definitely not good, and so I guess doctors are going to have to work even harder to push past this, and also stop trying to remove women’s uterus’s. Its hard to discuss this issue, as I’m not really sure if the feminists are being too over exaggerative, or if the uterus removal surgery really is a good idea or not. I’m sure having a uterus would be a pretty “interesting” experience, but am not planning to give it a try. On the plus side, the article says the number of female doctors is rising! This is good and matches what I originally said.
3. Is the medicalization of society a good or bad thing? (nice and short question)
I’m assuming that medicalization in this question means having a country incorporate universal health care into their hospitals and pharmacies. This means that if a person wants to see a Doctor, they can get treated without having to fill out insurance forms or paying up cash. The movie “Sicko” really contrasted the difference between the capitalistic system in the United States and the ease of the free universal systems in Europe.
Michael Moore’s controversial documentary truly made it impossible to argue that this medicalization can be a bad thing. After showing numerous examples of how bad the American system can be for average people, such as an elder janitor forced to keep working in order to allow his family to have the insurance, or a man who cut off two fingers and had to decide which one to get re-attached. Yes all of these stories were meant to really pull at the viewers hearts, but the fact remains that this is a truly enormous issue. Life can be tough for everyone, but one thing that can’t be messed around with is your health. What’s even worse is the main reason behind the denial of care is so that others can PROFIT! Even though that is the way capitalism works, it just doesn’t seem right. If personally you could offer help, I’d like to think pretty much anyone would. However when dealing with large medical corporations who don’t even see the people, its easy to see how they would forget their “customers’” dire situations. Corporations were created for the sole purpose of making huge profits, and for this, they really shouldn’t be in control of any form of health products. Even over the counter drugs is pushing it, as the movie showed just how cheap some products were in Cuba. Health and Medicine just seems like something the Government has to handle. The Government controls the army, to protect the citizens, and should also control the medicine to protect the citizens from DISEASE.
The film also showed just how silly the idea of paying for health care seemed to people in Britain or France, and how happy they seemed to be, just knowing no matter what happens to them, they can be taken care of. It seemed fantastic, although I already LOVE British people! Canada’s system is a lot closer to this, which made me feel happy and secure. The security part seems really important, as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs states that before you can feel truly happy and reach your full potential, you must fulfill basic needs such as hunger and safety. Americans always seem really proud about their country, which is a good thing, but they really should give Sicko a good watch and think about how it can become even better.
1. Socialization is intended to turn us into conforming members of society. As a result, we are under considerable pressure to “do the right thing.” Explain the actual social forces that push us to act appropriately and then consider how socialization would explain the numerous individuals, from white-collar criminals to wife abusers who deviate from the social norms.
Through Socialization, every member of a society, starting at an extremely young age, learns the appropriate values and norms required to participate and fit in with the rest of society. We all have strong tendencies to conform when in groups, for example in a classroom when every student things the answer is “B” and someone might think otherwise, they may be reluctant to voice their opinion and just agree until the teacher states the correct answer. However, in society there is an extremely numerous amount of individuals who can be considered deviant. These people, such as thieves, abusers and murderers are definitely not the type of people society had intended. So how is it that people can resist conformity into what is easily the largest of groups? To discuss this further, each of the agents of socialization must be examined.
First, the family, which is considered to be the primary agent of socialization. As a child, your main role models are your parents. A person learns to talk by mimicking their parents, as well as learns many appropriate behaviours through their disciplines. For example “Do not hit your sister...or else!” Clearly a lot of responsibility is placed on the parents in teaching their kids right from wrong, or in other words to “Do the right thing”. The major concern here is that parents are only human. They have their own conflicts which can greatly impact their children. If the child witnesses his father beating his mother, then logically there is a greater chance that he could grow up and do the same thing. Also, the divorce rate is so high in these modern times that the child could lose a role model completely.
For this children must seek other guidance from other agents of socialization. This includes school and to a lesser degree Television. School works strongly in socializing a person because it has teachers to lay down rules and boundaries, as well as peers or friends for them to compare themselves with. If everyone is wearing clean brand named clothing, then why shouldn’t you? School also allows people to develop their own identity separate from that of their parents. This is extremely significant because although this is normal, depending on how strong the relationship with the parents was (which further proves their significant role) the youth may want to break away even further and join a counter- culture like a gang.
Another source of socialization is religion, which is perhaps slightly losing strength present day. Religion teaches some faith as well as good morals to follow or live by. This can be quite helpful, but we have discussed whether or not religion is really morality or if humans are inherently evil. I always think back to William Golding’s “The Lord of the Flies” where when all trace of society was lost, the children became savages. Even with instilled morals, there always must be some sort of higher power watching over. Whether this is God, or the Government, people need to be kept in line. Maybe deviance is a result of people who in a state of rage or desperation misjudge the consequences of their actions or don’t care about the punishment.
2. Canadians are not all equally likely to become sick or to suffer an injury. Some are more likely to develop diseases or disabilities. Why do you think there are differences in the heath and illness of Canadians based on sex and class?
It is really easy to imagine class playing a factor in health and illness. Mr. Carm Sirianni once described going to the clinic, feeling out of place. (probably wearing a pimpin suit) Illness happens to everyone at some point in time, its just natural, however a person’s lifestyle plays great impact. Both Siriannis seem to be really people, and have complained about touching things from the bathroom. Being a teacher does potentially put you in contact with sick youths, but with some hand sanitizer and 11 steps to washing your hands, the overall illness isn’t that bad. In comparison to someone with a lower class job however there is a huge difference. Imagine, with school still as an example, working as a janitor. Cleaning up everyone else’s mess (as well as the bathroom) is a very easy way to get into contact with more germs, and therefore diseases. Another case could be those guys who stand on or beside ladders, fixing the school up. Falling off of that ladder would result in a pretty painful injury, and they have to face that chance every single day! Also people who work outside more have to face the environment, working in the rain can’t be good for your health, and too much heat can also be bad. In the article there was an example of a woman who had a lung problem do to inhaling exhaust fumes from a pickup truck. Maybe this could also be a problem for people who pick up the garbage, plus that stuff smells REALLLLY BAD! Another lifestyle issue I can imagine would have to do with the stress. If you struggle through life constantly worrying, trying to push through a mortgage payment or have enough food on the table for your family, that can wear at your health as well. The article states “The more you think about the test, the worse you are likely to feel - legitimating to yourself the need to claim the sick role.” It explains how since it can be hard to know for sure when you are sick, other factors in your life can lead to you basing that judgement, such as stress over a test pushing you towards fully taking on a sickness, or a big party keeping you away from it.
Sex also plays an issue, although a much less significant one in my opinion. Our society has been striving to break down the gender roles that could lead to differences in health, through lifestyle things mentioned above. Since women can pursue any career they wish, things shouldn’t be too bad. However the feminist perspective in the article argues that “phsicians don’t take women’s health complaints as seriously as men’s. As a result, women are operated on at a later stage in heart disease, making it more likely that they will die” Well dieing is definitely not good, and so I guess doctors are going to have to work even harder to push past this, and also stop trying to remove women’s uterus’s. Its hard to discuss this issue, as I’m not really sure if the feminists are being too over exaggerative, or if the uterus removal surgery really is a good idea or not. I’m sure having a uterus would be a pretty “interesting” experience, but am not planning to give it a try. On the plus side, the article says the number of female doctors is rising! This is good and matches what I originally said.
3. Is the medicalization of society a good or bad thing? (nice and short question)
I’m assuming that medicalization in this question means having a country incorporate universal health care into their hospitals and pharmacies. This means that if a person wants to see a Doctor, they can get treated without having to fill out insurance forms or paying up cash. The movie “Sicko” really contrasted the difference between the capitalistic system in the United States and the ease of the free universal systems in Europe.
Michael Moore’s controversial documentary truly made it impossible to argue that this medicalization can be a bad thing. After showing numerous examples of how bad the American system can be for average people, such as an elder janitor forced to keep working in order to allow his family to have the insurance, or a man who cut off two fingers and had to decide which one to get re-attached. Yes all of these stories were meant to really pull at the viewers hearts, but the fact remains that this is a truly enormous issue. Life can be tough for everyone, but one thing that can’t be messed around with is your health. What’s even worse is the main reason behind the denial of care is so that others can PROFIT! Even though that is the way capitalism works, it just doesn’t seem right. If personally you could offer help, I’d like to think pretty much anyone would. However when dealing with large medical corporations who don’t even see the people, its easy to see how they would forget their “customers’” dire situations. Corporations were created for the sole purpose of making huge profits, and for this, they really shouldn’t be in control of any form of health products. Even over the counter drugs is pushing it, as the movie showed just how cheap some products were in Cuba. Health and Medicine just seems like something the Government has to handle. The Government controls the army, to protect the citizens, and should also control the medicine to protect the citizens from DISEASE.
The film also showed just how silly the idea of paying for health care seemed to people in Britain or France, and how happy they seemed to be, just knowing no matter what happens to them, they can be taken care of. It seemed fantastic, although I already LOVE British people! Canada’s system is a lot closer to this, which made me feel happy and secure. The security part seems really important, as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs states that before you can feel truly happy and reach your full potential, you must fulfill basic needs such as hunger and safety. Americans always seem really proud about their country, which is a good thing, but they really should give Sicko a good watch and think about how it can become even better.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Going To See Neko Case! (Also This is Actually a Serious Journal) Free Journal #4
So I've been planning to see my babe Neko Case in July <3333!...But there is a pretty big dilemma, as to which show I should see. She plays July 14th in Massey Hall, Toronto as well as in Buffalo a few days later, for FREE! However, as of now to get across the border to the home of our brothers from down south, America - land of the FREE, I need to have a passport. But passports take many weeks to finish, as well as cost lots of $$$. So in a lot of ways, maybe it would be easier to just bus or train to Toronto, and pay up cash for the ticket. Or if I’m feeling lucky go for both, and see her twice!! Though that last option is pretty unlikely.
Anyways, why do we even need a stupid border, or passport?? After 9-11, I can see why there was a huge scare, but in my opinion I think 9-11, really should be renamed to 9-11-01! Though not nearly as nice sounding, its sometimes hard to imagine that the terrorist attack that struck at the heart of Americans happened almost 9 years ago. I remember when the attacks happened, I was in grade 5, didn’t know what a terrorist was, didn’t know what a world trade tower was, didn’t really care. Although this seems pretty naive and cold hearted, in all honesty in the course of history, 1 attack doesn’t seem all that significant. Although causing a trailer for Spider-Man to be removed was pretty harsh. Either way, 9 years is a long time, and things should be a LOT better by now. Canadians have been able to go across the border with just a drivers license or birth certificate for decades, why change it now?
The border is really strict on people, especially Brandon, who tried to cross to Maine on his long journey to PEI, but was turned around. Its also strict on people of other cultures, due to racial reasons and prejudice, which is really unfair. Even just an average journey to the states is really delayed because of the customs and security checks, just the fact that the line is so large, when even a few people are pulled over, many others must wait longer. When my family travels to the states to buy clothes, I usually stay home, because it ends up taking all day, with many hours spent in a really hot car, going bumper to bumper. Sure I can make an exception for Neko Case, but damn, soooo inconvenient!
Also, why even have a border?? What is it that truly separates Canadians from Americans. No matter how patriotic you may feel, in all honesty there isn’t that much of a difference culturally from myself living so close to the border on one side, and someone the same distance to the south. Perhaps farther down there is a more significant separation but even then, in this age of global connectivity and with the powerful influence of the media, in many ways *we are the same*. (new Tragically Hip album title, really fantastic)
Sure as a Canadian I might say Eh and enjoy maple syrup more then barbecue sauce, eat french fries and not freedom fries(these are sterotypes, maybe I‘ll talk more about this in another journal) but that shouldn’t stop me from seeing Neko Case!
Anyways, why do we even need a stupid border, or passport?? After 9-11, I can see why there was a huge scare, but in my opinion I think 9-11, really should be renamed to 9-11-01! Though not nearly as nice sounding, its sometimes hard to imagine that the terrorist attack that struck at the heart of Americans happened almost 9 years ago. I remember when the attacks happened, I was in grade 5, didn’t know what a terrorist was, didn’t know what a world trade tower was, didn’t really care. Although this seems pretty naive and cold hearted, in all honesty in the course of history, 1 attack doesn’t seem all that significant. Although causing a trailer for Spider-Man to be removed was pretty harsh. Either way, 9 years is a long time, and things should be a LOT better by now. Canadians have been able to go across the border with just a drivers license or birth certificate for decades, why change it now?
The border is really strict on people, especially Brandon, who tried to cross to Maine on his long journey to PEI, but was turned around. Its also strict on people of other cultures, due to racial reasons and prejudice, which is really unfair. Even just an average journey to the states is really delayed because of the customs and security checks, just the fact that the line is so large, when even a few people are pulled over, many others must wait longer. When my family travels to the states to buy clothes, I usually stay home, because it ends up taking all day, with many hours spent in a really hot car, going bumper to bumper. Sure I can make an exception for Neko Case, but damn, soooo inconvenient!
Also, why even have a border?? What is it that truly separates Canadians from Americans. No matter how patriotic you may feel, in all honesty there isn’t that much of a difference culturally from myself living so close to the border on one side, and someone the same distance to the south. Perhaps farther down there is a more significant separation but even then, in this age of global connectivity and with the powerful influence of the media, in many ways *we are the same*. (new Tragically Hip album title, really fantastic)
Sure as a Canadian I might say Eh and enjoy maple syrup more then barbecue sauce, eat french fries and not freedom fries(these are sterotypes, maybe I‘ll talk more about this in another journal) but that shouldn’t stop me from seeing Neko Case!
School Uniforms: Are They Cool Beans, or Tough Beans? The Most Beastly Presentation Response Journal Ever, Based on an Also Beastly Presentation!
So our mocho grande “Obamanation” (as Bryan called it) presentation came to an end finally, after a few problems along the way. First of all, why is it that when given an entire year to do a project, it always seems to be the last week before its even looked at? Take these journals for example! So when it came time to get’re done, it of course time felt like an issue. It also seemed like almost a struggle to get Bryan and Jess over at the same time for a single night. Personal issues aside, even when we agreed on a time to project it up, there was only ever a single person worth of blackup at a time. I guess that was ok though, as how many people can you crowd around a computer screen and actually stay productive? The real problem though was SLIDESHOWS! Where does Bill Gates get off, thinking he can charge me $150 for Microsoft Office. I was all like OH NO YOU DI INT! (and didn’t buy the programs, only used a free trial) However, this was back in January, when I had to make my English Slideshow, on Marcus Zusak’s “The Book Thief”, which was a reallllly long novel, but surprisingly good read about a young girl during the second world war. Thanks to Mrs Sirianni for recommending it! But anyways, back on track...how can you make a slideshow with no POWER!(point)?---> Trial EXPIRED!!! Well quite cleverly, I looked to Corel Presentations. This trial however DIDN’T WORK! Guess I’m not going to buy that full product either? So to solve this, the slideshow had to be created in my sisters room. Well her room is ORANGE, and filled with PENGUINS (also extra cramped, slow computer, etc) Well on the positive side, her chair is at least not broken, unlike mine. So after beasting up a slideshow for almost a whole night with my hombre life seemed good.
During the events of the above story, I was asked to help out at the spring show, as a tech crew stand in. I wasn’t totally sure of my “tech” skills, or my worthiness of being part of the “Krew” but as a favour to a cool teacher, who offered some nice music advice (like Andrew Bird / Camera Obscura) I figured I’d give it a go. Well the night went pretty smoothly, Brandon my hero even gave me a ride to the school so I didn’t have to work my legs at all...I got inside and found out there was still some tech crew people there! As soon as I saw Andrew Arbour, I knew we were all set. However, lots of them seemed kinda lazy, still wanted me to do some work. I ended up having to film the entire show! Well lets just say I’m not a camera guy...Brandon was definitely right when he said JASON THIS IS WHY YOU DONT TOUCH THE CAMERA! (since in our Com Tech video, I managed to film a 5 second shot, but mess it up by having Ashneet in the background, sleeping...arguably not my fault) So when I filmed the show and there was a long zoomed out shot of the band playing a song, I tried to spice it up by zooming in on people I knew, like JOEL BECKER! Not a complete loss, but a couple of the on stage stuff was likely pretty shaky, like watching the monster from cloverfield attack the girls dancing to thriller. Well if the show was about the 60’s why was there thriller, Michael Jackson would been a baby! Not cool black MJ, not crazy wonderbread MJ, BABBY JACKSON. But it was a good dance, and a pretty cool show. I was happy Jess came though, she told me where to point the camera when I was zoning out and stuff.
After all the Slideshowing, and Cameraing, what happened next? Oh no, not the presentation...MORE SLIDESHOW! My sisters computer completely ruined our slideshow, and at the very last minute I realized this and had to redo it in 1st period com tech. It was a lot easier the second time, I was happy that I managed to pull it off. (With several funny slides added in, to lighten up my mood) Finally the presentation could begin! I felt bad for not having Bryan and Jess see the newer slideshow before going, but there was no time, this was it, show time. In the end it went pretty well, everyone laughed at a lot of stuff, and a good discussion kicked off near the end, thanks to some well thought out questions by Jess and myself, and some revisions by Bryan when putting it into the slideshow with me the next day, in my sisters room. The discussion included some really smart points, like a comment Alexandria made (which I can’t remember now, but seemed to blow my mind when it happened), as well as some humorous ideas about the Simpsons, and stupid sexy Flanders, and the time Ryne knocked over Dean’s V8 juice!
The topic of school uniforms was an interesting one to me because it was a serious enough issue to be on the list, but not super serious, like abortion. It allowed for a more free and relaxed discussion environment, and I wouldn’t feel bad about trying to lighten things up. It was a good issue I found because of the idea that people consider uniforms a way to prevent cliques from forming, as well as allowing people to feel included as part of a larger group. Some other favourite points made during the discussion included Johnny saying that at his former school there was still a LOT of different groups of people, and Mr Mike’s point about how he isn’t really friends with some people from his work outside of the job. Also where does Kayla even work at?? It keeps coming up, but I think we’ll never really know for sure! In conclusion, I think most people agreed uniforms were NOT cool beans, although now its easier to understand why people can be for them.
During the events of the above story, I was asked to help out at the spring show, as a tech crew stand in. I wasn’t totally sure of my “tech” skills, or my worthiness of being part of the “Krew” but as a favour to a cool teacher, who offered some nice music advice (like Andrew Bird / Camera Obscura) I figured I’d give it a go. Well the night went pretty smoothly, Brandon my hero even gave me a ride to the school so I didn’t have to work my legs at all...I got inside and found out there was still some tech crew people there! As soon as I saw Andrew Arbour, I knew we were all set. However, lots of them seemed kinda lazy, still wanted me to do some work. I ended up having to film the entire show! Well lets just say I’m not a camera guy...Brandon was definitely right when he said JASON THIS IS WHY YOU DONT TOUCH THE CAMERA! (since in our Com Tech video, I managed to film a 5 second shot, but mess it up by having Ashneet in the background, sleeping...arguably not my fault) So when I filmed the show and there was a long zoomed out shot of the band playing a song, I tried to spice it up by zooming in on people I knew, like JOEL BECKER! Not a complete loss, but a couple of the on stage stuff was likely pretty shaky, like watching the monster from cloverfield attack the girls dancing to thriller. Well if the show was about the 60’s why was there thriller, Michael Jackson would been a baby! Not cool black MJ, not crazy wonderbread MJ, BABBY JACKSON. But it was a good dance, and a pretty cool show. I was happy Jess came though, she told me where to point the camera when I was zoning out and stuff.
After all the Slideshowing, and Cameraing, what happened next? Oh no, not the presentation...MORE SLIDESHOW! My sisters computer completely ruined our slideshow, and at the very last minute I realized this and had to redo it in 1st period com tech. It was a lot easier the second time, I was happy that I managed to pull it off. (With several funny slides added in, to lighten up my mood) Finally the presentation could begin! I felt bad for not having Bryan and Jess see the newer slideshow before going, but there was no time, this was it, show time. In the end it went pretty well, everyone laughed at a lot of stuff, and a good discussion kicked off near the end, thanks to some well thought out questions by Jess and myself, and some revisions by Bryan when putting it into the slideshow with me the next day, in my sisters room. The discussion included some really smart points, like a comment Alexandria made (which I can’t remember now, but seemed to blow my mind when it happened), as well as some humorous ideas about the Simpsons, and stupid sexy Flanders, and the time Ryne knocked over Dean’s V8 juice!
The topic of school uniforms was an interesting one to me because it was a serious enough issue to be on the list, but not super serious, like abortion. It allowed for a more free and relaxed discussion environment, and I wouldn’t feel bad about trying to lighten things up. It was a good issue I found because of the idea that people consider uniforms a way to prevent cliques from forming, as well as allowing people to feel included as part of a larger group. Some other favourite points made during the discussion included Johnny saying that at his former school there was still a LOT of different groups of people, and Mr Mike’s point about how he isn’t really friends with some people from his work outside of the job. Also where does Kayla even work at?? It keeps coming up, but I think we’ll never really know for sure! In conclusion, I think most people agreed uniforms were NOT cool beans, although now its easier to understand why people can be for them.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Free Journal #3: Am I lazy??
......Yes!
This one is that bonus assignment from the Friday before the break, which was supposed to double as a journal. Whooo got all 5 done, don't look at the dates, those are just Blogger's lies (technical error and such, happens ALL the time)
This one is that bonus assignment from the Friday before the break, which was supposed to double as a journal. Whooo got all 5 done, don't look at the dates, those are just Blogger's lies (technical error and such, happens ALL the time)
After I Saw 300 (And Wrote This Journal) I Felt Like Punching the Guy Next To Me In the Face
During Carissa and Adam’s Friday debate/presentation we questioned whether or not Humans were inherently violent or if outside factors can manipulate this. Many ideas were presented through PowerPoint, and a really cool short video, such as how religion, television, movies or video games can or can’t contribute to human violence. The media truly is one of the most powerful influences on people, especially for us as young adults. Many TV episodes, movies, or video games present very violent or gruesome images as well and after seeing so much, perhaps it’s possible to become desensitized to the violent acts we witness, making it honestly not affect us a second time. Could this mean the violence shown will continue to escalate?
In the grade 11 course we read an article about Lt. Col. Dave Grossman’s novel “On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society.” It was about how during his time in the military he saw how some of the soldiers became conditioned to becoming psychologically fit for killing other human beings. The methods described weren’t something extremely far out, it just involved overexposing the recruits to violent games and movies for an extended period of time. He argues that we really do become desensitized to the violence and can really take on the psychological mindset of a killer, if necessary. During our discussion in class however, many people disagreed with this. The general consensus was that video games can be considered simply entertainment or movies can be consciously pushed aside as not real and we can therefore use them to relax or relieve stress. For the most part I agree with this, considering there have been safety precautions set in place, such as on video games the ESRB ratings. These are to prevent people of a young and unfit age to gain access to the really violent pieces of software. I know this is stressed because the cute chick at EB games seems to like to ID me and look at my horrible driver’s license picture. Nonetheless, there are many ways to get around this and perhaps age itself doesn’t necessarily reflect a person’s true mental state. Also, things like TV shows can’t be as easily blocked off. Also it is pretty easy to see the violence in games increase. In prior generations, it was very easy to understand nothing was real, because nothing actually LOOKED remotely real and a lot was up to the imagination. Now everything is created with complete photo realism. When you are shooting a person in a game, there is almost no denying it could be a real person.
Another issue can be the image of reality the media portrays to us. It is important to realize just how much the media affects our lives. Just thinking on a daily level, we are all presented hundreds of advertisements, through TV, billboards, internet etc, so much though that it really does affect our outlook on many things. As humans, we have a strong pull towards conformity and the media can make that be whatever they so wish. Just looking at the news on any given day, there can be many horrific stories or images. On a general scale things aren’t truly that bad, however who would watch the news if they simply reminded us everything is alright. Media studies has taught me that ALL MEDIA ARE CONSTRUCTIONS, so even the news, being composed of all real life incidents is also constructed in order to make the public feel a certain way. In constantly seeing the outside world as a dangerous and violent place, something known as the “mean world syndrome” comes into place. People’s actions can completely reflect their thoughts and so if they see the world as something dark they can act accordingly. Another thing is that in the past, TV was much stricter on what was shown and what wasn’t to be ever even thought of being broadcasted. The perfect family image was always the most prominent, but now it is much more eased back. Although many networks will try and put a cap on the intensity of what is shown, it’s hard to deny that people are interested in the violence. Crime drama programs which build their stories off of a brutal murder or something along those lines are extremely popular. (But back in the day, people would go to see real life executions) Even though some may consider shows like Jerry Springer to be completely trashy, even more will continue to daily watch it. I have to admit, it is entertaining.
In conclusion, no matter whether or not humans are inherently violent, it is clear that the media does have a strong impact on bringing out those instincts. (Also, on a side note I would have to say it is very possible that we are inherently violent. In William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies,” the poor innocent children had succumb to becoming completely savage due to the lack of order on the island and poor Piggy and Simon died. The powerful themes brought out in the novel always stuck in my mind and furthermore, if it’s in a book then it HAS to be true. ) From TV, to movies to video games, we are all exposed to a very understandable rise in the impact and quantity of violent images. Nevertheless, we still have the ability to distinguish what is real and what isn’t and therefore even if it takes a struggle, can maintain to be civilized. Parents should be extremely aware of what exactly their kids are being exposed to and help to further clarify that what they are witnessing isn’t real. Also they should never buy their child Grand Theft Auto 4.
In the grade 11 course we read an article about Lt. Col. Dave Grossman’s novel “On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society.” It was about how during his time in the military he saw how some of the soldiers became conditioned to becoming psychologically fit for killing other human beings. The methods described weren’t something extremely far out, it just involved overexposing the recruits to violent games and movies for an extended period of time. He argues that we really do become desensitized to the violence and can really take on the psychological mindset of a killer, if necessary. During our discussion in class however, many people disagreed with this. The general consensus was that video games can be considered simply entertainment or movies can be consciously pushed aside as not real and we can therefore use them to relax or relieve stress. For the most part I agree with this, considering there have been safety precautions set in place, such as on video games the ESRB ratings. These are to prevent people of a young and unfit age to gain access to the really violent pieces of software. I know this is stressed because the cute chick at EB games seems to like to ID me and look at my horrible driver’s license picture. Nonetheless, there are many ways to get around this and perhaps age itself doesn’t necessarily reflect a person’s true mental state. Also, things like TV shows can’t be as easily blocked off. Also it is pretty easy to see the violence in games increase. In prior generations, it was very easy to understand nothing was real, because nothing actually LOOKED remotely real and a lot was up to the imagination. Now everything is created with complete photo realism. When you are shooting a person in a game, there is almost no denying it could be a real person.
Another issue can be the image of reality the media portrays to us. It is important to realize just how much the media affects our lives. Just thinking on a daily level, we are all presented hundreds of advertisements, through TV, billboards, internet etc, so much though that it really does affect our outlook on many things. As humans, we have a strong pull towards conformity and the media can make that be whatever they so wish. Just looking at the news on any given day, there can be many horrific stories or images. On a general scale things aren’t truly that bad, however who would watch the news if they simply reminded us everything is alright. Media studies has taught me that ALL MEDIA ARE CONSTRUCTIONS, so even the news, being composed of all real life incidents is also constructed in order to make the public feel a certain way. In constantly seeing the outside world as a dangerous and violent place, something known as the “mean world syndrome” comes into place. People’s actions can completely reflect their thoughts and so if they see the world as something dark they can act accordingly. Another thing is that in the past, TV was much stricter on what was shown and what wasn’t to be ever even thought of being broadcasted. The perfect family image was always the most prominent, but now it is much more eased back. Although many networks will try and put a cap on the intensity of what is shown, it’s hard to deny that people are interested in the violence. Crime drama programs which build their stories off of a brutal murder or something along those lines are extremely popular. (But back in the day, people would go to see real life executions) Even though some may consider shows like Jerry Springer to be completely trashy, even more will continue to daily watch it. I have to admit, it is entertaining.
In conclusion, no matter whether or not humans are inherently violent, it is clear that the media does have a strong impact on bringing out those instincts. (Also, on a side note I would have to say it is very possible that we are inherently violent. In William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies,” the poor innocent children had succumb to becoming completely savage due to the lack of order on the island and poor Piggy and Simon died. The powerful themes brought out in the novel always stuck in my mind and furthermore, if it’s in a book then it HAS to be true. ) From TV, to movies to video games, we are all exposed to a very understandable rise in the impact and quantity of violent images. Nevertheless, we still have the ability to distinguish what is real and what isn’t and therefore even if it takes a struggle, can maintain to be civilized. Parents should be extremely aware of what exactly their kids are being exposed to and help to further clarify that what they are witnessing isn’t real. Also they should never buy their child Grand Theft Auto 4.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Obama Bringin' Change! But so is Technology
Prior to the break, we were discussing the topics of how society functions as well as social change. Technology is a very significant factor of social change because of all its positive or beneficial uses as well as its potential consequences. It is clear that in the past, great inventions such as the Gutenberg printing press, the steam engine and the automobile have greatly changed past society. In addition, our present society is now constantly inventing, innovating and expanding on extremely sophisticated new technologies. So much so, that the past decade and a half is sometimes referred to as “The Technological Revolution.” But how has this impacted our present day society? Can there really be severe consequences?
I agree completely with the past examples of technology bringing widespread change (maybe even faster than Obama). The printing press allowed for the written word to spread to everyone, including the commoners, helping to spread both the Protestant Reformation and the Renaissance Humanist style of thinking, which lead to the scientific revolution and the Enlightenment. The steam engine was so revolutionary it sparked the entire Industrial Revolution, allowing factories to be placed anywhere and allowing finished goods to be transported very quickly. This also allowed the populations to travel across entire continents. Finally, the automobile greatly shifted changed the lifestyle of the previous generations. Having a vehicle allowed people or families the freedom to live wherever they choose and still be able to travel to work or to any locations they want or need to reach. It caused suburbanization, which meant people would live outside of the big cities, in more cozy residential areas.
Present day, even more wonders have come into existence, that have created amazing and extensive changes. The most prevalent of these is the Computer and along with it the Internet. The rise of the internet has allowed any form of information to be accessed by any computer, anywhere in the world. People can share knowledge or communicate on an entirely global basis. What is even more amazing is that these inventions continue to grow and expand. It’s as though the technology we create inspires us to create even greater inventions. So much so that is has become a case of: what came first the chicken or the egg? I think it is still our own human remorsefulness that does most of the work, but there is no doubt technology will continue to play a huge role in changing and shaping our future society.
However, this will come with several consequences which are nonetheless quite interesting. The rate of change is an issue, since it really has moved to a rapid pace; those left behind can really get left behind. Furthermore economics also comes into play, since to constantly upgrade or replace devices it can be very costly. Some people also can become obsessed with all the new wonders and become slightly addicted. Others may still be using dial up internet or an old Mp3 player instead of the newest Ipods or even the Ipod Touch. Having the newest devices is almost like a status symbol. But trying to constantly keep up can lead to something known as “The amonie effect” or future shock. Another consequence is that when the devices don’t work as they are supposed to, people get really frustrated or feel anxiety.
Finally the issue I find most believable, is how the means to communicate have changed so drastically, that talking through means of Facebook or a text message can be more common than face to face. This can be a very tough obstacle to overcome for many, since a very large portion of meaning in communication comes from the non verbal parts, such as hand gestures or facial expression or the tone of voice can also play a role. These are replaced by emoticons, which although extremely fun to type, don’t really convey true emotion. Another issue is that the means to connect and stay connected with your circle of friends, or co-workers has expanded so much that sometimes it isn’t necessary to socialize with strangers or meet new people. So when you are out in the world in an unfamiliar setting, since it’s so easy to stay in contact with people you already know, why take the effort to try and talk to someone new? Mr. Sirianni mentioned this, through explaining his trip to England and how everyone on the train or plane was caught up in their own little word, their private network. I also saw this, when I was at driving lessons. Many people came from different schools or areas bringing at most 1 friend and for the most part very few people talked. Everyone, including me had their phones to talk to their other friends to kill the time rather than starting a conversation with the other people. (Although I added the cute chick who sat across from me to Facebook!) This means that in contradiction, even though sometimes real opportunities can be missed, however a whole world of new people to meet are closer than ever. Through the internet the whole world is united and a global community is created. I know I have met some interesting people online, whether fairly local or completely foreign I otherwise may never have gotten to know them.
In conclusion, technology is a very powerful agent of change in society that through the past has been proven to completely shape how people live and perceive the world around them. Even though our modern day society may be developing technology at an even more rapid pace, the awe inspiring benefits far surpass the negatives and the future is continuing to look even more amazing.
I agree completely with the past examples of technology bringing widespread change (maybe even faster than Obama). The printing press allowed for the written word to spread to everyone, including the commoners, helping to spread both the Protestant Reformation and the Renaissance Humanist style of thinking, which lead to the scientific revolution and the Enlightenment. The steam engine was so revolutionary it sparked the entire Industrial Revolution, allowing factories to be placed anywhere and allowing finished goods to be transported very quickly. This also allowed the populations to travel across entire continents. Finally, the automobile greatly shifted changed the lifestyle of the previous generations. Having a vehicle allowed people or families the freedom to live wherever they choose and still be able to travel to work or to any locations they want or need to reach. It caused suburbanization, which meant people would live outside of the big cities, in more cozy residential areas.
Present day, even more wonders have come into existence, that have created amazing and extensive changes. The most prevalent of these is the Computer and along with it the Internet. The rise of the internet has allowed any form of information to be accessed by any computer, anywhere in the world. People can share knowledge or communicate on an entirely global basis. What is even more amazing is that these inventions continue to grow and expand. It’s as though the technology we create inspires us to create even greater inventions. So much so that is has become a case of: what came first the chicken or the egg? I think it is still our own human remorsefulness that does most of the work, but there is no doubt technology will continue to play a huge role in changing and shaping our future society.
However, this will come with several consequences which are nonetheless quite interesting. The rate of change is an issue, since it really has moved to a rapid pace; those left behind can really get left behind. Furthermore economics also comes into play, since to constantly upgrade or replace devices it can be very costly. Some people also can become obsessed with all the new wonders and become slightly addicted. Others may still be using dial up internet or an old Mp3 player instead of the newest Ipods or even the Ipod Touch. Having the newest devices is almost like a status symbol. But trying to constantly keep up can lead to something known as “The amonie effect” or future shock. Another consequence is that when the devices don’t work as they are supposed to, people get really frustrated or feel anxiety.
Finally the issue I find most believable, is how the means to communicate have changed so drastically, that talking through means of Facebook or a text message can be more common than face to face. This can be a very tough obstacle to overcome for many, since a very large portion of meaning in communication comes from the non verbal parts, such as hand gestures or facial expression or the tone of voice can also play a role. These are replaced by emoticons, which although extremely fun to type, don’t really convey true emotion. Another issue is that the means to connect and stay connected with your circle of friends, or co-workers has expanded so much that sometimes it isn’t necessary to socialize with strangers or meet new people. So when you are out in the world in an unfamiliar setting, since it’s so easy to stay in contact with people you already know, why take the effort to try and talk to someone new? Mr. Sirianni mentioned this, through explaining his trip to England and how everyone on the train or plane was caught up in their own little word, their private network. I also saw this, when I was at driving lessons. Many people came from different schools or areas bringing at most 1 friend and for the most part very few people talked. Everyone, including me had their phones to talk to their other friends to kill the time rather than starting a conversation with the other people. (Although I added the cute chick who sat across from me to Facebook!) This means that in contradiction, even though sometimes real opportunities can be missed, however a whole world of new people to meet are closer than ever. Through the internet the whole world is united and a global community is created. I know I have met some interesting people online, whether fairly local or completely foreign I otherwise may never have gotten to know them.
In conclusion, technology is a very powerful agent of change in society that through the past has been proven to completely shape how people live and perceive the world around them. Even though our modern day society may be developing technology at an even more rapid pace, the awe inspiring benefits far surpass the negatives and the future is continuing to look even more amazing.
B.F. Skinner: Best Presentation Ever! (and his buddy Ivan Pavlov )
B.F. Skinner was a very influential psychologist in the 20th century, who also wrote many articles as books and interestingly enough created some unique inventions. After researching Skinner sufficiently in order to prepare a (serious) presentation, I have learned a great deal about Skinner’s life and his contributions to the field of psychology, specifically his theories in Behaviourism and Operant Conditioning. Furthermore, after listening listening to what everyone else had to say about other important social scientists, some clear connections can be made. B.F. Skinner is most relatable to another, arguably more famous behaviourist: Ivan Pavlov. Behaviourism is a branch of psychology that deals with trying to predict and modify human behaviour. Both Skinner and Pavlov went about this by experimenting on animals. Both experiments I would say are extremely brilliant and the results are very understandable and apply to many real life situations.
First, Skinners experiment is known as the Operant Conditioning Chamber, or the Skinner Box. Inside this box, he placed a rat (or pigeon) into a special cage, in which all of the necessities for the creature could be self obtained. There were very accessible levers controlling 4 distinct things. The first was to dispense the food, the second could pour water, the third did absolutely nothing at all, and finally the final one would offer the rat a mild shock. From this the rat learned to only press the levers with favourable results and not the other two. This demonstrated that different types of reinforcement can result in shaping behaviour, which is the basis of Operant Conditioning.
There are four major types of reinforcements: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment and finally negative punishment. Positive reinforcement involves introducing a positive stimulus in order to increase the frequency of a behaviour and positive punishment is its opposite, involving a decrease in the behaviour’s frequency and an aversive stimulus. Examples of these include getting candy for answering a question correctly or a severe punishment such as jail time for breaking the law. On the negative side, there is negative reinforcement, which involves an unpleasant stimulus in order to increase a behaviour, (such as receiving a detention in order to promote being on time) or the punishment of taking away a positive stimulus in order to decrease a behaviour. (not getting anything good from the grocery store because of being greedy and trying to throw lots of stuff into the cart) All of these things feel very natural, likely because they have been experienced in various forms. Skinner’s theory was very influential in the education system. If teachers could use operant conditioning, especially positive reinforcement well, the children could be trained to learn a lot better.
Next, Ivan Pavlov’s accomplishments are also very astounding. Pavlov used a salivating dog to demonstrate Classical Conditioning. Classical Conditioning is best explained as learning through association. For example, in Pavlov’s famous experiment he trained the dog to salivate just by ringing a bell. Each night he would ring the bell while presenting the dog with meat. The Unconditioned Response of salivating would be associated with the Unconditioned Stimulus of the food but also the Conditioned Stimulus the bell. In associating the two things, after a while all that was needed was the dog to hear the bell to realize food would be coming and would therefore begin to salivate. When this happened it is also referred to as the Conditioned Response. I first learned about this in a science class where as a group we wanted to train a rat to make it through a maze composed of only right turns. Marketers use this idea as a subtle way to promote their products. For example Mc Donald’s new commercial was about a father having a heartfelt moment with his daughter after a hockey game. Without even saying anything about the food or drinks, just associating this happy moment with the store in general will get parents to also want to go there.
In comparison, both theories deal with trying to understand how we learn. Each scientist used animals in very ingenious experiments in order to analyze this more carefully. More specifically, both results are very presentable and easy to understand. They really take the idea to its most basic form and it’s very difficult to try and disagree with them, as almost anyone can think of a past experience where they may have come into play. I know that I as a high school student realize that 1 bell means start thinking about heading to class, or maybe take one more lap and two bells means I should probably have been in class by then… But just a ringing bell wouldn’t naturally do that, it was associated with the time schedule. Another similarity is that Operant Conditioning is also in a way learning through association, since reinforcement is another object that your mind connects with the desired behaviour. The difference is that they are a lot more specific and have positives or negatives attached to them, whereas Classical Conditioning can associate completely separate Stimuli together.
To conclude, both famous Behaviourists Skinner and Pavlov’s fascinating experiments resulted in very impressive theories on how we as humans learn. There are many similarities and differences between their discoveries, however without doubt both are very influential innovations in the field of psychology. Also I think my presentation was way underrated, should have been at least A+
First, Skinners experiment is known as the Operant Conditioning Chamber, or the Skinner Box. Inside this box, he placed a rat (or pigeon) into a special cage, in which all of the necessities for the creature could be self obtained. There were very accessible levers controlling 4 distinct things. The first was to dispense the food, the second could pour water, the third did absolutely nothing at all, and finally the final one would offer the rat a mild shock. From this the rat learned to only press the levers with favourable results and not the other two. This demonstrated that different types of reinforcement can result in shaping behaviour, which is the basis of Operant Conditioning.
There are four major types of reinforcements: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment and finally negative punishment. Positive reinforcement involves introducing a positive stimulus in order to increase the frequency of a behaviour and positive punishment is its opposite, involving a decrease in the behaviour’s frequency and an aversive stimulus. Examples of these include getting candy for answering a question correctly or a severe punishment such as jail time for breaking the law. On the negative side, there is negative reinforcement, which involves an unpleasant stimulus in order to increase a behaviour, (such as receiving a detention in order to promote being on time) or the punishment of taking away a positive stimulus in order to decrease a behaviour. (not getting anything good from the grocery store because of being greedy and trying to throw lots of stuff into the cart) All of these things feel very natural, likely because they have been experienced in various forms. Skinner’s theory was very influential in the education system. If teachers could use operant conditioning, especially positive reinforcement well, the children could be trained to learn a lot better.
Next, Ivan Pavlov’s accomplishments are also very astounding. Pavlov used a salivating dog to demonstrate Classical Conditioning. Classical Conditioning is best explained as learning through association. For example, in Pavlov’s famous experiment he trained the dog to salivate just by ringing a bell. Each night he would ring the bell while presenting the dog with meat. The Unconditioned Response of salivating would be associated with the Unconditioned Stimulus of the food but also the Conditioned Stimulus the bell. In associating the two things, after a while all that was needed was the dog to hear the bell to realize food would be coming and would therefore begin to salivate. When this happened it is also referred to as the Conditioned Response. I first learned about this in a science class where as a group we wanted to train a rat to make it through a maze composed of only right turns. Marketers use this idea as a subtle way to promote their products. For example Mc Donald’s new commercial was about a father having a heartfelt moment with his daughter after a hockey game. Without even saying anything about the food or drinks, just associating this happy moment with the store in general will get parents to also want to go there.
In comparison, both theories deal with trying to understand how we learn. Each scientist used animals in very ingenious experiments in order to analyze this more carefully. More specifically, both results are very presentable and easy to understand. They really take the idea to its most basic form and it’s very difficult to try and disagree with them, as almost anyone can think of a past experience where they may have come into play. I know that I as a high school student realize that 1 bell means start thinking about heading to class, or maybe take one more lap and two bells means I should probably have been in class by then… But just a ringing bell wouldn’t naturally do that, it was associated with the time schedule. Another similarity is that Operant Conditioning is also in a way learning through association, since reinforcement is another object that your mind connects with the desired behaviour. The difference is that they are a lot more specific and have positives or negatives attached to them, whereas Classical Conditioning can associate completely separate Stimuli together.
To conclude, both famous Behaviourists Skinner and Pavlov’s fascinating experiments resulted in very impressive theories on how we as humans learn. There are many similarities and differences between their discoveries, however without doubt both are very influential innovations in the field of psychology. Also I think my presentation was way underrated, should have been at least A+
Thursday, March 26, 2009
This blog needs more...
NEKO CASE!
but also....3 more journals? There whas just no whey!! wow this is gonna be tough. The bonus thing we did before the break was also supposed to count as a journal I think (I hope) Oh and this doesn't count as a journal, although if it was I bet it would be A+ ..
but also....3 more journals? There whas just no whey!! wow this is gonna be tough. The bonus thing we did before the break was also supposed to count as a journal I think (I hope) Oh and this doesn't count as a journal, although if it was I bet it would be A+ ..
Monday, March 9, 2009
Is Studying Social Change "An Inconvenient Truth"?
Over the past month we have been studying the topic of social change, including different theories explaining the change and causes for it. But why is learning about social change so important? It seems at first glance somewhat useless, if we are to continue to progress forward then how can we continue to look to the past? After reading the article titled, "A Tale of Two Farms" and furthermore watching Al Gore’s inspirational documentary, “An Inconvenient Truth” many extremely substantial reasons became clear.
First, understanding social change is crucial because patterns of change often repeat themselves, and learning from the past is an excellent way to ensure that an even better course of action can be taken for the future. In "A Tale of Two Farms", famous American Geologist and Anthropologist Jared Diamond wrote “The past offers us a rich database from which we can learn, in order that we may keep on succeeding.” This is because in the article Diamond compared and contrasted two farms: The Gardar Farm from Norse Greenland and the Huls Farm in the American State of Montana. The two farms faced very similar economic and environmental conditions, yet it failed and went under, whereas the American Farm is currently prospering. Diamond is an expert on social change, especially after his extremely solid Pulitzer Prize winning book Guns, Germs, and Steel. In this novel he explores the factors dating back to the earliest forms of civilization that lead to the ultimate supremacy western civilization had compared to any other societies.
After introducing the article with the strongly thematic farm analysis, Jared Diamond writes about how and why societies from the past have collapsed and furthermore, contemplates whether or not it is possible or not in our modern and extremely technological society. He ties their tragic downfalls to environmental factors, such as running out of a crucial resource. All of these cases followed very similar sequences, which lead to a civilization with a massive population, rapidly decreasing. Diamond states, “Past peoples were neither ignorant, nor bad managers who deserved to be ex-terminated or dispossessed, nor all-knowing conscientious environmentalists who solved problems that we can’t solve today. They were people like us, facing problems that we can’t solve today.” I honestly would have doubted the last fact before seeing “An Inconvenient Truth”
Al Gore, 45th Vice President of the United States and active environmentalist’s passionate and shocking documentary brings up this very same issue. He describes in extremely clear and well thought out, relatable description the foreboding dangers of Global Warming and more importantly tries to provide plausible solutions. His many examples of effects of global warming and shocking graphs, especially some extremely off the chart bring his point into clear sight. When he showed the chart of how high the carbon in our atmosphere was in the past several decades and how massive a role it could play within the next 50 years (OUR lifetime) my eyes were definitely opened. Global Warming is a very real threat and will take a Global effort to stop. His warnings were extremely factually based, he took models of data in some cases dated back to prehistoric days and compared them with our own time, and the result was outrageous. Our society has changed so drastically from prior years that maybe we have come too far. Although there is no fighting the speed and influence of technology, we will definitely need to find an equilibrium with the environment if we are to continue to grow and expand as a society. The former Vice President also mentions that it is our own ignorance which is hindering the efforts to stop Global Warming. This also relates to the note about obstacles to social change (such as Mr. Sirianni’s dad)
In conclusion, understanding Social change is absolutely necessary in ensuring a sustainable future for our Canadian as well as our Global society. Jared Diamond’s "A Tale of Two Farms" article proved in his article that all societies can reach collapse due to factors that at the time seem completely out of their control. Al Gore’s film “An Inconvenient Truth” has explained the extreme dangers, in which our society today is facing. Perhaps looking to the past and studying the accomplishments mistakes of our ancestors’ developing societies can help us make the acceptable decisions on ensuring our survival.
First, understanding social change is crucial because patterns of change often repeat themselves, and learning from the past is an excellent way to ensure that an even better course of action can be taken for the future. In "A Tale of Two Farms", famous American Geologist and Anthropologist Jared Diamond wrote “The past offers us a rich database from which we can learn, in order that we may keep on succeeding.” This is because in the article Diamond compared and contrasted two farms: The Gardar Farm from Norse Greenland and the Huls Farm in the American State of Montana. The two farms faced very similar economic and environmental conditions, yet it failed and went under, whereas the American Farm is currently prospering. Diamond is an expert on social change, especially after his extremely solid Pulitzer Prize winning book Guns, Germs, and Steel. In this novel he explores the factors dating back to the earliest forms of civilization that lead to the ultimate supremacy western civilization had compared to any other societies.
After introducing the article with the strongly thematic farm analysis, Jared Diamond writes about how and why societies from the past have collapsed and furthermore, contemplates whether or not it is possible or not in our modern and extremely technological society. He ties their tragic downfalls to environmental factors, such as running out of a crucial resource. All of these cases followed very similar sequences, which lead to a civilization with a massive population, rapidly decreasing. Diamond states, “Past peoples were neither ignorant, nor bad managers who deserved to be ex-terminated or dispossessed, nor all-knowing conscientious environmentalists who solved problems that we can’t solve today. They were people like us, facing problems that we can’t solve today.” I honestly would have doubted the last fact before seeing “An Inconvenient Truth”
Al Gore, 45th Vice President of the United States and active environmentalist’s passionate and shocking documentary brings up this very same issue. He describes in extremely clear and well thought out, relatable description the foreboding dangers of Global Warming and more importantly tries to provide plausible solutions. His many examples of effects of global warming and shocking graphs, especially some extremely off the chart bring his point into clear sight. When he showed the chart of how high the carbon in our atmosphere was in the past several decades and how massive a role it could play within the next 50 years (OUR lifetime) my eyes were definitely opened. Global Warming is a very real threat and will take a Global effort to stop. His warnings were extremely factually based, he took models of data in some cases dated back to prehistoric days and compared them with our own time, and the result was outrageous. Our society has changed so drastically from prior years that maybe we have come too far. Although there is no fighting the speed and influence of technology, we will definitely need to find an equilibrium with the environment if we are to continue to grow and expand as a society. The former Vice President also mentions that it is our own ignorance which is hindering the efforts to stop Global Warming. This also relates to the note about obstacles to social change (such as Mr. Sirianni’s dad)
In conclusion, understanding Social change is absolutely necessary in ensuring a sustainable future for our Canadian as well as our Global society. Jared Diamond’s "A Tale of Two Farms" article proved in his article that all societies can reach collapse due to factors that at the time seem completely out of their control. Al Gore’s film “An Inconvenient Truth” has explained the extreme dangers, in which our society today is facing. Perhaps looking to the past and studying the accomplishments mistakes of our ancestors’ developing societies can help us make the acceptable decisions on ensuring our survival.
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