Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Defining Moments
Whether you are comparing and contrasting Naylor's and Leong's reactions to derogatory labels, considering how language defines us, challenging George Will's assumption in "Equity," defining an addiction, OR determining the effect of euphemisms, post your initial, thoughtful responses for the AP Language Community "sagesblogspots."
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Most people have been or are currently addicted to something in their lives. Addiction is defined as a need created by a person’s dependence on a particular experience that has the potential to become the only object to give their life meaning if the addiction reaches exponential heights. One addiction that seems extremely prevalent amongst members of my generation is the addiction to texting. It seems like everyone texts constantly nowadays in class, while driving, and even during traditional escapes such as movies and vacations. This recent phenomena seems to spring from an incessant need to constantly socialize with other people in an attempt to relate and share more experiences. The phenomena results in an inability for youth of my generation to concentrate for long periods of time and a general decline in face-to-face social skills. I would classify someone as addicted to texting if he or she constantly texted throughout class, during conversations, and during times when one usually focuses on one task. The addicted usually have an absurd amount of acquaintances and contacts but they only frequently text the ones who are addicted like themselves, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of addiction that is almost impossible to break. I see the unfortunate victims of hyper socialization and hyper industrialism in my classes as the students with apathetic attitudes who constantly text in class under their desks or behind barriers that obstruct the teacher’s view. Thus, an abnormal dependence on texting as the sole media of social interaction has become a problem that is quite relevant today in modern society.
ReplyDeleteLeong mentions that words are used to define, but she also mentions that she will not allow racist words such as “chink” define her. Although this statement is relatively contradictory, I think it strengthens the purpose behind her essay. Every word has its literal meaning, but they also have connotations that society has bestowed on them. The word “chink” is used as a derogatory word to insult and criticize people of Asian descent, but Leong has her own definition of the word, she uses the word “chink” in a way without malice or harmful intent, to Leong, “chink” is just another word harmlessly used between her and her friends. Leong states, “Even though we may use the term chink rather casually, it is only used that way amongst ourselves because we know that when we say it to each other it is truly without malice or harmful intent” (476). Derogatory and offensive words will never disappear from our lives, our English language along with every other language has its share of these hurtful and insulting words, but many times, these words lose their original meaning to something harmless, or at least less harmful. We understand that these words will never disappear so that is the reason why we learn to accept and deal with them. Words may define who we are, but we, the people must remember that we are the ones with the power to define words.
ReplyDeleteEuphemisms appear in our daily lives, in fact, we have been taught to use euphemisms. When someone dies we say they have "passed away" or when someone is fired, they have been "downsized." Euphemisms appear throughout our daily lives; they appear in newspapers and the news, used by our teachers and friends, they serve as a way to address a subject by calling upon it in a lighter way or perhaps not at all, but merely slightly touching the waters of the subject. Politicians, in particular, use euphemisms to describe many issues in the world. One in particular that appears in newspapers and from politicians is “undocumented worker,” better known as an “illegal alien” or illegal immigrant. However, an “undocumented worker” isn’t a very accurate description. Some newspapers and organizations prohibit the use of the words “illegal immigrant,” but that seems to be the most appropriate one out of all three. Not all immigrants work and those that do have documents, whether they are real or not. “Illegal immigrant” is inaccurate because though they are here (in this instance, the United States) illegally, the word “immigrant” throws it off. An immigrant is someone who goes into a country and stays. Much of the illegal transient visitors here leave and return often and many times with their families. “Illegal alien” is most precise because, as stated, they are illegally here, but they are also aliens, or non-citizens. The euphemisms used to describe “illegal aliens” conceal the truth about anyone in a country when they shouldn’t be. In the end, the only people getting hurt is the country itself for a failure to see the truth, recognize it, and do something about it.
ReplyDeleteAlthough Leong initially states that a “language is the tool used to define” and she later on explains that she refuses to be defined by racist language, the apparent contradiction in her essay surprisingly strengthens her purpose instead of weakening it. While a language can define an individual, there are several shades of meanings of a word. For example, originally, a “chink” is a colloquial term that targets specifically against Asians. However, upon its introduction into society, “chink” developed into several different connotations as a result of everyday conversations. Therefore, while “chink” may convey the derogatory, racist message, it can also become a term of endearment or, as Leong explains, “a loving insult” between friends. I believe the word “chink” very much defines the race that it degrades because of its various meanings: at first, its original meaning indicates that Asian Americans suffer multiple social racisms and segregations. However, because “chink” had transformed into a term of endearment, a complete opposite from its original connotation, it shows that, as Asian Americans, we are strong and determined individuals who have risen up against the despicable racism in society by accepting the word “chink” and completely altered its meaning. This alternation of the word “chink” is proof that, as Asian Americans, we absolutely won’t allow racism to “control” and “belittle” us, which is why “chink” can certainly define the character of Asian Americans as a whole.
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ReplyDeleteLeong’s essay, “Being a Chink” was influenced by Naylor’s, “The Meanings of a Word,” which is why they both share the same purpose. However, it seemed that Leong took it more personally when she read the word “chink” not only because she actually knew what the word meant but also because it was said to her father; someone whom she looked up to, someone she respected. Naylor, however, was still unaware of the true meaning of the derogatory term that was said to her because the African American parents had transformed the word into a term of endearment or manhood and kept the true meaning of it hidden from their innocent kids. This is why she seemed more confused than shocked when she was called a “nigger.”
ReplyDeleteBut, despite the fact that Leong and Naylor come from different cultures, both their communities are victims of racism. This shows how judgmental and narrow-minded our society has become. The Chinese community is defined by their “delicate features” and receives the label, “Chinks” (476). We fail to recognize who they really are as people, and simply judge because they are different. Similarly, the African American community also faces racism; it is the harsh reality they must face for being different. Society has defined them as “niggers,” a “label that can never be removed.” But the power to define is not only given to certain members of society, it is given to all of us, no matter what race we are. This is why both communities were able to transform the racist terms into something positive. They have taught themselves to look past the original meaning of the word, which was to humiliate or belittle them, and used it to help them grow stronger as a community.
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ReplyDeleteMost people in the world are addicted to something, whether it be TV or alcohol or drugs. However, not all addictions are so recognizable. One of these overlooked addiction is an addiction to exercise. Although it is not an object or something you can “use” it is still very possible to be addicted to exercise. People who suffer from this addiction usually fall under two groups. The first group is people who are actually displeased with their body type and they feel that they need to exercise all the time to either shape themselves into something desirable or maintain an acceptable look. The other group of people are those people who are mentally insecure about themselves. These people are usually in decent physical shape are pleased with their own look but they feel that they should exercise all the time just to show off. People like this usually just want to feel superior to other people who do not exercise as much as they do and they do not realize that they push themselves too hard. Pushing yourself to hard is one of the reasons why becoming addicted to exercise could become harmful to your health. Now it might seem that pushing yourself hard is what is necessary to achieve good results but if you over exert yourself you can end up seriously damaging your muscles or possibly becoming dehydrated or over fatigued. So, in short, even if you are not addicted to something that is truly harmful like drugs or alcohol any true addiction to something, even something as seemingly helpful as exercise, can end in damaging results.
ReplyDeleteAs high school has reminded me, people either conform to claim nonconformity or unintentionally conform by trying to be “unique.” Paradoxical, no? This is a direct result of humans’ collective need to feel accepted by peers in society and need to express their individuality. While this might not always be the case, I have witnessed the majority of my own peers fall into this social trap where we (myself included) are subject to popular culture and the economy’s great deals. However, living in an area as prosperous as Columbia County has dehumanized my views of the “wealthy.” I now view them as a group of people defined by their pursuit for Amazon’s top products. Can this be defined as a simple hindrance of human nature or as a full-on addiction to popularity?
ReplyDeleteFor some, shopping is a satisfying pastime, and at times, a depressing reminder of an empty wallet. For others, shopping remains an unfortunate, full-on addiction, led by one’s need for acceptance and fear of ridicule and embarrassment. Throughout the years, the American population, as exemplified by the town of Evans, has been sucked into the advertising markets of big corporations, such as Apple with iPhones and iPods, as well as into trends initiated by small, “obscure” businesses. I now see approximately one out of every four cars embellished with either the driver’s initials or a comical representation of the driver’s family. It is trends such as these that make me question people’s motives behind standing in line for hours for the new Apple releases and displaying their identity on the back windows of cars. What I have come to conclude is that the former example is one’s search for the latest gadgets, ultimately a representation of one’s superiority or appetite to have what other people crave, while the latter example displays that need to claim “individuality.” Sadly, the adverse effects of these weaknesses of human nature only cancel each other out in the end, but additionally involve the spending of money in this declining economy (observed in other areas other than Evans) and worthless time spent on one’s appearance. Why has not the population realized that there are approximately 7 billion people in the world? There is bound to be another person very similar to ourselves.
Gloria Naylor's "The Meaning of a Word" defines one of the most memorable experiences in the early life of a person of color in the fifties and sixties in the United States: the first time one is referred to as the n-word. Naylor was so offended by the comment that she proceeded to ask her mother what the word meant. The scene then shifts to the early life of Naylor. The term "nigger" had been used by persons of color when referring to other persons of color as a term of achievement or of manliness. The connotations presented by Naylor were that of one whom is not to be messed with, an endearing expression for a husband or boyfriend, and an insult to those whom were indecent. These uses of the word nigger had never caught her attention; they were just a fact of life. When she mentioned the dastardly act of one certain boy at school to her mother, however, Naylor gained sympathy from her mother because "she knew that I had to grow up in America".
ReplyDeleteChristine Leong, on the other hand, is not called a c-word, but sees it written in her dad's handwriting on an old envelope from when her dad was trying to learn English. Leong, like Naylor and the word nigger, heard the word "chink" used among friends as an identifier of a common denominator. The usage of "chink" is elaborated on in paragraph ten, in which Leong demonstrates how she called her friends chink and vice versa as a term of endearment between friends. While intended for use as a derogatory insult, it has become a symbol of overcoming such prejudice that is rooted not in personal flaws but in unique appearance. While not a term of honor, as "nigger" is in Naylor's essay, it is a term similar to how white people might use a term like dude or man; a term that has come to mean friend or even comrade.
In the Equity of Inequality, Will asserts that it is not equality of condition, but rather equality of opportunity that our country boasts. He claims that this is the true definition of equality, without veering towards communistic beliefs. Will suggests that the “rising generation…take education seriously as a decisive shaper of individuals’ destines,” and that the citizens of America take account for their own fate, rather than use the government as a scapegoat for their self-inflicted misfortunes. Although inequality of socioeconomic status is present at birth, every individual is afforded the right to reach the same destination.
ReplyDeleteI am in accord with Will, as I believe that the American Dream is alive and well. Everyone is entitled to be content, and they will be as long as they strive for happiness through helping their community and pursuing their dreams, rather than solely chasing the elusive paycheck of wealth. Michael Oher, known from the Blind Side and from his successful football career, exemplifies the ideology of the country. Although he was practically abandoned at birth, he was taken in by a caring family in the community, the Tuohys. With their help and his sedulous work ethic, both at school and on the football field, he achieved success and graduated from college. It is difficult to imagine a more unfair childhood than what Oher was given, and yet he rose from this obscurity. Oprah also made a name for herself despite her humble beginnings. She capitalized on her talents, striving for achievement.
Furthermore, it is impossible to rid the world completely of inequality. Inequality is natural, persisting through generations. Individuals’ talents should be celebrated, not envied.
It is true that Leong says, "language is the tool used to define us" and then clearly states that her circle of friends will not allow themselves to be defined by words that prove offensive, however they do allow themselves to be defined by the word in a negative way. The negative connotation of the word “Chink” does offend people of the Chinese race, but Leong and her friends transform the word to have a positive connotation, which makes them stronger beings and aides them in over coming the racism that the word showed initially. The contradiction she makes in her essay does not weaken her point but rather it provides evidence that language with bad connotations can define people in a positive way with out giving offense. When one reads the essay, it is apparent that “chink” has come to mean strong, perseverance, and bound together in unity. It does not degrade, “but rather it’s used as a term of endearment, a loving insult between friends.” Another way Leong describes “Being a Chink” is how the group of friends “deals with a label that can never be removed.” They embrace it as if it is their title and rather than being ashamed or having the feeling of being labeled they find helpful ways to endure the racism and seize their right as individuals.
ReplyDeleteAny belief that Americans have a "broad if imperfect equal opportunity for striving" is highly incorrect and does not look at the bottom half of homes in terms of income. The American system promotes the hurting of others to further the self, so this is what people do. There is a competition for every resource, and those who are born poor start ten miles back in a race to the fifty yard line. The gap between where the poor start and winning the competition for resources is just simply too great to be overcome, especially since those already at the finish line will throw tar and molasses into the path of those yet to finish, simply because they feel as if the winner's circle is crowded enough.
ReplyDeleteAlso, simple chance can prevent equal chance of progression through life. In a country where a two day hospital stay can cost up to thirty thousand dollars the average person does not have, being hit by a drunk driver could end the university education of a man who could have later gone on to invent the ninety percent efficient automobile. The system of healthcare and well being in this country simply does not allow to make up for bad chance in the seeking of success for the poor. In short, the world is working against the poor, both intentionally and unintentionally, to make it near impossible to have the same chance of success as someone born to an affluent "correct" family.
As was intended when it was founded, the United States is a land of opportunity and hope where perseverance and dedication to a goal can lead to success. In his essay, “The Equity of Inequality,” Will asserts that the United States is able to offer its citizens a “broad if imperfect opportunity for…the pursuit of happiness.” Although results may not be equal, every individual has the opportunity to strive for improvement, and it is this equality that creates an equitable, justified society. I believe that in the United States, each citizen does have an equal opportunity to achieve happiness. It is what we do with this opportunity that truly defines our personality and our lives. We must struggle to rise to the top of society. Everyone has the opportunity to rise to the top. It is not a privilege limited to a select group of individuals within society. There have been numerous individuals who have come from harsh backgrounds and troubled neighborhoods who have been able to achieve their full potential through arduous work ethic. One example is Shawn Carter better known as Jay-Z. Despite being raised in a low-income part of town, being abandoned by his father, and shooting his brother, Jay-Z was able to embrace success. Regardless of his distressed childhood, he has become one of the most financially successful hip hop artists with a net worth of over $450 million. Both Thurgood Marshall and Barack Obama were able to overcome racial stereotypes and become leaders and models for the African American community. Several other individuals have been able to overcome any challenges and discrimination illustrating that the path to success and glory is open to any who have the will to struggle. These opportunities are especially open for all today when welfare programs and financial aid programs have been established to assists those who may not be fortunate enough to live in ample abundance. With such opportunities available, society owes us no obligations; we must work for success. If we choose not to strive for triumph, how can we expect success to come to us? Only once we realize that we must work to achieve our dreams can we truly achieve these dreams. Every individual is the captain of his own soul, the master of his fate.
ReplyDeleteThe coined statement..."language is the tool used to define us" could not be more evident today than in the past. Is is safe to state that a person who uses obscure language ultimately is a 'potty mouth' and has no boundaries? The same goes for an addiction. When someone is addicted it is defined by being abnormally tolerant or dependent on something that psychological or physical. For example, when a person is dependent upon alcohol or drugs, we considerably categorize him/her as an alcoholic or drug addict. One addiction that stands out today would be the internet (aka Facebook). Many teens today without conscious thinking use Facebook as a means of bonding or connecting with someone. This aspect has even been growing amongst adults today considering now that most adults use a dating website to 'find that special someone'. What ever happen to connecting on a personal, face-to face level? Today, society makes excuses for the addiction to the media (i.e. internet-Facebook) as away of heading toward the future rather than facing the truth of dependence it has upon these creations today.
ReplyDeleteNaylor's "The Meaning of a Word" reminded me of the following interview with Morgan Freeman:
ReplyDeleteInterviewer: Black history month you find…
Morgan Freeman: Ridiculous.
Interviewer: Why?
Morgan Freeman: You’re going to relegate my history to a month?
Interviewer: Oh, come on.
Morgan Freeman: What do you do with yours? Which month is white history month?
Interviewer: (pause) Well, I’m Jewish.
Morgan Freeman: Okay. Which month is jewish history month?
Interviewer: There isn’t one.
Morgan Freeman: Oh, oh. Why not? Do you want one?
Interviewer: No.
Morgan Freeman: Right. I don’t either. I don’t want a black history month. Black history is American history.
Interviewer: How are we going to get rid of racism?
Morgan Freeman: Stop talking about it.
The N-word is so much more than just a derogatory term, yet we have managed to label it as simply "a bad word." The N-word carries all the history of African American people, from the searing heat of the southern cotton fields to the "whites only" water fountains. Not only does it carry the hardships these people have faced, but the fact that we have labeled this word as "bad" shows how they have overcome these hardships all together.
Just as Mr. Freeman believes that Black History should not be assigned a month, the N-word should not be seen as simply a "bad word". It is a word that carries the history of a race of people and the hardships they have had to overcome in order to get to where they are today.
Euphemisms are defined as words or phrases that replace other words or phrases that might offend or wound someone. They are prevalent in every aspect of our daily life and affect the way that we react to almost every situation, when they are used so heavily in our conversions, in print, and on television. One of the most common subjects that euphemisms are used for is pregnancy. These euphemisms have been in place forever and they all served the same purpose—to glamorize and gloss over the state and effects of being pregnant. In the fifties, it was common to ask someone “Are you PG?” while in the sixties, the common phrase “bun in the oven” became a fad. Being “knocked up” became popular in the seventies and in the eighties, pregnant women were classified as “preggers.” Along with these more recent euphemisms, at the turn of the century popular sayings included “the family way,” “in delicate condition,” and “waiting for a visit from the stork.” All of these early euphemisms upheld the beautiful, natural connotation of being pregnant while the later ones became vulgar, such as in the popular movie “Juno” when she is told that her “eggo is preggo.”
ReplyDeleteAfter reviewing the responses of my peers I thought Rachel and Megan’s responses were quite solid and successfully addressed key issues. Rachel’s post, regarding “The Equity of Inequality”, concerns the equality of opportunity in America and the ever-present inequality in all societies regardless of efforts made to eradicate the differences in the population. Equality of opportunity is one of the basic tenets of American society. The belief in equality of opportunity is important because it allows for a dynamic and competition-based work environment that consists of members who perpetually try to better themselves, subsequently improving the quality of the whole structure as a whole. Equality of opportunity is an ideal that creates faith in the whole fluidity of social order and provides great motivation for people to better themselves and improve their living conditions. Megan’s post concerned the transmutation of the connotation of a derogatory term. The term “chink” is used by Leong and her friends as a way of accepting a negative label that fringe elements of society have enforced and turning it into a point of shared experience among Asian-Americans. Instead of passively sitting back and ignoring the word Leong and her friends have actively changed the very meaning of the word, much like African-Americans changed connotations of the n-word in Naylor’s essay.
ReplyDeleteAs I read my peers’ posts, I have to say Kendyl’s comments on euphemisms were especially enlightening. Many of us have been in a position where we must carefully choose our words to ensure we will not offend anyone, but sometimes, euphemisms are used so much to the point where the word begins to lose their true meanings. As Kendyl mentions in her post, one of the most common term euphemisms are used for is pregnant. By using words such as “preggo”, “knocked up”, or “bun in the oven” we have generalized pregnancy into one simple term, when in reality it could mean so much.
ReplyDeleteI also liked Mihir’s post, when he mentions that in America, we are all given the opportunity to become successful and happy, but depending on our level of determination, our level of hard work, and our level of effort, some will reach the top of society, while others will remain at the bottom. But on the contrary, Evan mentions that success is not based solely on hard work and determination. I do agree with Evan to a certain extent, I personally believe that hard work and effort will raise the opportunity for success, but everyone who wishes to succeed also need a small amount of luck.
Swayams focus on texting as an addiction is irrevocably undeniable. Even I, am a victim. Since most of us in our adolescent have been accustomed to texting growing up, we see no harm in our “little addiction.” Perhaps this is why adults are always saying that all kids care about these days are “black berries and blue berries, Xpods and Ipods.” Momo, whoever that is, made an acute observation in pointing out that addiction can also arise by excessive exercise and a need to self-improve. Winnie’s retail therapy addiction brought to my attention a friend of mine, who thinks all her problems can be solved with a swipe of plastic and the purchase of a Tory Burch. Rather than dealing with social, emotional, and physical problems she faces, she relies on shopping as her personal comforter. Both Swayam, Momo, and Winnie target the essential idea that too much of anything is harmful. Although Winnie accurately defines the competition to fit in, her statement of how there is someone in the world very similar to each of us contradicts my viewpoint. I believe we are all individuals due to our unique experiences. How often do you meet someone that has shared each and every experience you have? Our experience shapes us. Mihir definitely pursues the American Dream. (Yay!)
ReplyDeleteAfter reading my the posts of my peers and participating in the class discussions, I believe that several individuals make good observations. First of all, I would like to address the point that Evan brings up. Even though I believe that American society provides equal opportunity for all individuals, I can see some validity in Evan's point-of-view. Although overly pessimistic, he is able to convey the message that not only is it hard work and dedication that defines who you are later in life, but it is also a fair amount of luck. You must be lucky enough to be born into affluent family that is able to provide for your needs. You must be lucky enough not to be killed by the irresponsible choices of others. You must be lucky enough to have been born with an ample amount of intelligence. There are some things that you must depend on luck for, but for everything else there is perseverance. Do not undermine the power of a sedulous work ethic. Do not let yourself get bogged down with the idea that everything is out of your control or subject to whimsical forces of nature that are out of your control. At some point, you must be willing to realize your own potential, take control of your own life, and take what is rightfully yours. Additionally, I would like to address the idea that was brought up in our class discussion of "The Holocaust." Euphemisms are words that we, as a society, use to distance ourselves from the parts of history tat we feel most uncomfortable with. It is these stains on our history and nightmares within our minds that we wish to mask with seemingly innocuous phrases or terms. However, we must come to realize that these events are real and that by separating ourselves from them not only are we stripping the victims of any honor or dignity but we are also robbing ourselves from an opportunity to better the human race. If we can not stand to face our past actions, how can we come to realize our wrongdoings and so learn from our mistakes? Euphemisms are used by humans when they cannot face the strong emotions that accompany the unspeakable events of the past. They are used to blind the masses from the horrors of the human race, but they should be abandoned in the chase for truth and realization.
ReplyDeleteWhile human nature gifts us with the ability to feel pleasure and happiness, it can hinder us too. Just as Shefali and Kendyl have mentioned, I find that people find a dismaying satisfaction and comfort out of addictions and euphemisms, and the reason for this is how our generation has been nurtured. We use addictions and euphemisms as methods to avoid confrontation with our peers and with reality. Such an example would be how we define an addiction to luxuries such as television and Facebook or to destructive substances such as drugs and alcohol. Our individual definitions have an impact and lasting effect upon how we live our lives. For an unfortunate number of people, “addiction” is used as an excuse for why they are unwilling and unable to change. Essentially, I view it as an excuse for laziness. Similarly, I find that people also misuse euphemisms to appease and avoid offending others. We are too afraid of being accused of discrimination and ignorance that we are forced into using a limited vocabulary. Naylor and Leong point out that certain words hold multiple connotations though, such as racial slurs. They additionally point out that the definitions of words can change given different surroundings and usages though. Kendyl also mentions the multiple phrases we use in place of “pregnant” and “pregnancy,” due to the negative connotation that (teen) pregnancy often holds in today’s society. This is just one example in the English language though; the same situation occurs in other cultures as well, showing that our environment is the ultimate factor in determining the definition of a word.
ReplyDeleteToday’s government and society are full of euphemisms. Euphemisms are useful for telling people what is going on, but not really. They are helpful for describing, but at the same time masking and hiding the entirety of the truth. In many ways, our government and authorities use these sugar-coated phrases to explain to us a situation without upsetting or offending groups of people. Lately, one of the buzz words has been “recession.” If you haven’t noticed, the American economy isn’t the greatest and buying six gallons of gas shouldn’t cost twenty dollars. However, the American government is not going to tell you things are bad. They are going to use a word or phrase to describe the situation in a less emotional, tamer state. Recession is a popular one. Also, if we are struggling we need “bail-outs.” Hey, here is a problem let’s throw money at it. Businesses also use this method. If they want to make changes they tell their customers that they are only making minor adjustments when they are going to scrap their entire approach. We encounter so many examples of euphemisms throughout the day that signs, messages, newspapers, almost go unnoticed. What about “Out of Order signs,” shouldn’t they read
ReplyDeleteWell, John didn’t do his job so now the minor kink in the system is a big mess and your commodity is broken.
Thanks,
-Staff
Obviously, there are some cases where euphemisms are useful. For example, it may not be appropriate to say, “May I urinate in your toilet,” but instead you may wish simply to ask where the “restroom” is located. Often, euphemisms are used to cover up mistakes and undesirable situations. In “Holocaust,” the author blames Americans for taking the emotion out of the event that took place in concentration camps throughout Nazi Germany. This is very true and it would be a shame to think that one might be mislead by the poor descriptive power of the word holocaust.
I really like how Emily says that “words may define who we are, but we, the people must remember that we are the ones with the power to define words.” I think that this is completely true, and really, the only reason we have any “bad words” in languages is because we make it that way. “Chink” can be used in a derogatory manner, but Leong and her friends make it so that it is just a harmless way of defining themselves and who they are. In “The Meanings of a Word,” the “N-word” was used to show “approval for [someone’s] strength, intelligence, or drive…[and even as] a term of endearment for [someone’s] husband or boyfriend.” However, we, the people, made it wrong. We gave it a negative connotation. I agree with Mary that the “[N-word] carries the history of a race of people and the hardships they have had to overcome” to be seen as equal today, and it is not right that we have made it a “bad word” when it should be a term to show these battles that a whole group of people have fought and lost, and fought and won. It should be a term that we use proudly because it is incredible what people can overcome.
ReplyDeleteUp there is my original post that didn't post the first time. There is definitely something wrong with my account so i am sorry for the delayed posts.
ReplyDeletehere is my reflection
To begin, I really like Swayam's analysis of addictions. I agree that teens are addicted to texting. While I text quite a lot myself, it is disturbing to find people's attention on important tasks divided and sapped by a cellular phone and their "best friend." Texting should never intercede between you and your accomplishments. Josh points out that people can be addicted to exercising. This is so common and often overlooked much like TV addiction. I know of a woman who was so addicted to exercising that she ran several times a day while pregnant. It is perfectly normal to want a healthy body, however, excessive exercise while being pregnant seems a little dangerous. Winnie expresses that humans have an addiction to consumerism and purchasing the latest and greatest item to attain individualism. I would be remiss to overlook this comment because it annoys me the most. Winnie says there are almost 7 billion other people in the world and that it’s impossible to be an individual. This is true and it is because the things you posses do not make you unique. How you look, think, act, and feel, is what makes you who you are.
Rachel and Evan's posts are like polar opposites...go figure. In this case, I agree most with Rachel as well as Mihir in that we are all given the ability to succeed. It takes sedulous work ethic and using discernment in decisions to rise to the top. If you start lower than another individual, you must work harder to overcome this obstacle and ignore the "Evans" who will tell you that you cannot achieve.
Lastly, I would like to point out that I love Morgan Freeman's response to the interview he participated in about racism and Black History Month. Freeman and I share the exact same feelings when it comes to racism and I feel like he addresses the matter effectively.
After participating in our class discussions I came to realize that we all seem to be part of some competition where we constantly try to make ourselves look superior to others. We come up with terms to belittle others in order to make ourselves look better. However, we get offended when someone does the same to us. This is why people have given themselves the power to define words and used it to transform a derogatory term into something less harsh and innocent. One word that came up in our discussion was the word “jerk;” it use to be an offensive word but overtime it has lost its power. Now it has become something you hear in the halls of an elementary school. But does the fact that we transform words really mean that they have lost their true meanings? No, because they could still be offensive, it just depends on which context you use them in and to whom you’re talking. For instance, jerk may not be a “bad word” to high school kids, but it is still very offensive if you said it to a little kid. You could also call someone you’re close to a bad word, and they won’t take it to heart but if u were to use the same word in a fight or say it to a stranger, you would probably get a totally different reaction.
ReplyDeleteThree points that really stood out to me after reading my peers posts where Winnie's take on addiction to popularity and the different outlooks on what it takes to be successful from Mihir and Evan. Winnie mentions how a persons desire to be accepted can cause them to develop an addiction to shopping. She also mentions how this shopping addiction can lead to an empty wallet, and how people will ignore there lack of money as long as they are accepted. If people neglect their finances in order to become popular there is no way they can become successful. This goes along with the comments made by Evan and Mihir about what it DOES take to be successful in todays society. Mihir makes a point that everyone is given the same opportunity to excel, but only those who are willing to work hard and persevere will achieve their desired results. Evan on the other hand states that success in this world is more based on luck. I agree with both these claims. I do believe that if you work hard for something that you should be rewarded for it, however I must admit that luck is always a factor.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed Mary’s post; it was short-and-sweet and to the point. When something bothers us, we usually either: try and fix the problem, or more often, try and forget about the situation. Morgan Freedman’s comment on racism does just that; to get rid of it, stop talking about it. If Naylor and Leong wanted to rid chink or nigger from their vocabulary, all they had to do was stop saying, reflecting, or reading the word, but neither did. Both wrote essays on their word, which even though they fabricated wonderful essays, they did not try and remove the word from their memory.
ReplyDeleteIn Mihir’s blog post he states that we have to strive for triumph to gain success, and without striving why should we expect success? We can only achieve our dreams once we realize we have to work for them, for everyone has to become the master of his fate and desire to be the captain of his soul. This touched me! This is exactly what the American Dream is about. Working for your desires and establishing your goals, so that you may follow your dreams and reach your full potential.
Through the discussion in class, and from my classmates' responses to what I have said on the blog, I have learned one thing: people are too optimistic for their own good. It's not that most people look only to the one in a million that does succeed, it's that they refuse to recognize the vast majority of people that are left behind. Many also do not recognize the value of luck in to which family you are born and the luck of random occurrences not affecting your life.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I feel like people do not even listen to an argument if they dislike the source. This relates to the greatest problem in American politics today: the lack of an ability to listen to each other. It is shown in our class discussion on a much lesser scale in disagreements over the value of realism versus the falsity of idealism that guides many people's beliefs.
I found Winnie’s article regarding an individual’s need to different very intriguing. As we strive to be special, we all have the same mind set. Everyone wants to stand out from the crowd, but who is the crowd if everyone is trying to be unique? However, although the motives are the same, I do believe that diversity is the fuel that the world thrives on. Even if we have the same intention, we do not act differently in the same way. Many humans display a balance of both conformity and individualism. On the outside, many high schoolers wear the same brands and do have initials on their cars, but these students pursue distinctive hobbies and possess dissimilar strengths and weaknesses. It is impossible for anyone to be exactly the same as someone else. Even identical twins have individual thoughts and character, although their genetic makeup is the same. Discontinuities in opinions should be celebrated, and they certainly make the world more interesting, such as our heated class discussion about The Equity of Inequality, which stimulates the mind and challenges us to keep a more open mentality while standing up for our educated opinions. As Winnie states, we inadvertently conform when we try to be different, but we always will retain our uniqueness.
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ReplyDelete@Mary: Although I do agree with the evidence of the interview with Morgan Freeman and him stating that Black History is American History and that it should not be downsized to just a month(which in fact is the shortest month of the year but let's not go into that), I don't feel, as an african-american myself, that the N-word completely sums up or carries tha history of black people. So many misconceptions today have been made about black people and our history that it does nothing the glorify those who have helped to overcome ignorance. Admittedly, race relations have improved drastically over the past 40 years, but improvement does not heal the wounds caused by the aggregation of disparate treatment. As a person of color, I understand the ramifications of being excluded and rejected. Using racist terms such as chink or the n-word just gives us an acceptable mask to hide behind rather than address any real issues on our differences. In the words of Pierre Berton, "Racism is a refuge for the ignorant. It seeks to divide and to destroy. It is the enemy of freedom, and deserves to be met head-on and stamped out."
ReplyDeleteRachel: I agree with your statement that everyone has the right to reach and obtain equal opportunities in this world. Although I was part of the American Nightmare debate process I still have some feelings that the American Dream could be considered alive and well today because of the equal opportunity most people can seek after while living in America. It is true however that many may not have the same opportunity as others when it comes to finances or education,which is why I debated for the American Nightmare position.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Winnie when she says the things in our life can hinder us while providing pleasure and comfort at the same time. We may not realize this at that time but that is what the learning process and trails are for.
I agree with Mary when she says the 'N word" should not be seen as simply a bad word but rather if you look at it more positively it defines who a specific race proclaims themselves to be: strong, independent...the N word does not necessarily have to have a negative connotation, but when one uses it one should take precautions and not offend anyone.
I often pondered about the concept of "Black History Month." Having studied in many history classes, in which my teachers never hesitated to reveal the sufferings of African Americans, I've gotten a good understanding of the struggles and agony many ill-fated blacks have gone through. Thousands of lives were traded at a cost for independence. So I asked myself: "Did all their sufferings and strenuous work to gain independence and equal rights only mount up to one month of the year?" After reading Mary's post, I was relieved to know that I am not the only one who disagrees with "Black History Month." It's fine if February only serves as a mere reminder for Americans to not forget about so many great African Americans; however, the month should not solely become the only time to celebrate and commemorate these individuals. In fact, if we truthfully respect and honor the achievements of great African Americans, "Black History" should become a part of everyday life.
ReplyDeleteSwayam also points out another growing trend in today's lifestyle. By growing I don't mean online-chatting/texting among teenagers (In fact, many teens have already reached the threshold that qualifies dangerous addiction). I actually meant the gradual spreading of texting to adults as well as soon-to-be teens. Unlike most peers my age, I don't find any joy in texting. As a talkative person, I very much prefer looking and observing the expressions of the person I'm conversing with. Looking at dull words on the screen does not appeal to me as an active and healthy way of communicating. I like to empathize and understand the emotions that's carried by a person's voice more than looking at emoticons and try to guess what he/she is actually saying. Only in desperate situations do I use texting. And perhaps, another reason why I don't prefer texting is because once I saw an article online reporting that a girl was too busy texting that she didn't even realize a car was heading straight towards her...