In the modern world professionals are more interested in what will make them the most money, than what will actually please the population. Musical artists, television, and movie stars are becoming less talented and driven yet are selling their products faster than ever. Major executives are not looking to please the common man looking for more depth than the Jonas Brothers or Miley Cyrus can give, yet these “stars” are rising more quickly and younger than ever. In the past people used to care about the level of performance or product being put out there, artists and stars with less talent did not seem to make it as far, thereby giving us the “greats” like the Beatles, Elvis, and Frank Sinatra. Consumers from previous generations did not really care about who looked best as a Barbie Doll or on a lunch box. Corporate greed and ability to give us less than what we deserve needs to be addressed and hopefully lessened before “teeny boppers” completely control the airwaves.
So many artists, actors, and musicians go unnoticed by bigger labels because they simply do not have the “right look” or “appeal” a company is looking for. Amazing talents are forced to stay underground and without the fame they really deserve while others rise to the top because of their look or ability to use technology in order to enhance their mediocre vocals. It needs to be less about commercial appeal and more about what is actually being put on shelves, the radio, and television. Adults would never let their young pre-teen child make an executive, important decision yet it is these young adults that completely control what is being placed on the market today. Go into a store and you will see these celebrities endorsing t-shirts, posters, even cereal boxes at the grocery. It is hard to find a lunchbox or Barbie without one of these under-talented people on it. America needs to re-shift its focus from what is cute and popular, to what actually sounds good or is acted out well. It is the only way to get people who do not deserve to be on the radio or on television back to where they belong in order to make room for those who do.
A topic that is frequently brought up within our generation is how we will be remembered or the legacy we are leaving behind for others to see. With our financial troubles, environmental issues, and inability to produce entertainment that really makes a life changing statement like it had in previous generations does not make us look like we made a positive impact on the world. Our world has been taken over by celebrities and their ability to persuade us to purchase their products or see their movies simply because their name is behind it. I can honestly say the last three movies I went to see in theatres were absolutely terrible, mildly entertaining but never something I would dream of owning or ever want to see again. The biggest reason why I went to see these films was because of who was in them and because of the work they have done in the past. Who pays attention to plot lines and actual ability to make a difference when Robert Pattinson or Beyonce is playing the title role? Our world will hopefully one day get past this tendency to support those who are simply attractive or are the daughter of a one hit wonder.
If a twelve year old wants to listen to artists made popular on the Disney channel or Nickelodeon it is absolutely acceptable, though I would not recommend them as role models. The problem is when these people meant to entertain children are clogging the airways of adult radio stations and television networks. That is the reason why radio Disney and other children’s channels were created: in order to keep the adult and kid stuff separate. I want to listen to an artist that has real life experience and that I can relate to in order to help me through the rough and easy times in my life. Everyone is looking for a story or public figure that they can possibly relate to in order to feel like their not alone. The underground figures need to rise above and make their voices heard so the world can get the level of entertainment and quality of life it deserves because we cannot accept beautiful yet talentless role models and public figures anymore.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Free Upgrade
Free Upgrade
Recently my sister and I had decided to use our “free” mobile upgrade from our wireless carrier in order to become proud Blackberry owners. What we thought would be a fun, painless experience quickly escalated in to a cellular nightmare. We have always had the typical, non-extravagant phones in the past and therefore had no idea of the complexity and education it requires to purchase, set-up, and use such a state of the art piece of equipment. We found out soon enough.
Our journey into the wonderful world of wireless began at our usual T-Mobile store in the mall. As we looked around the store at all the new phones and gadgets we realized how pricey the best stuff was. Surely our “free upgrade” would kick in allowing us to purchase a piece of the Blackberry pie for less. We soon spoke with an associate who broke the horrifying news: If we wanted Blackberries it would cost us $129 each for the phone alone not including activation, data and other fees. Disappointed and confused we left the store thinking our dreams of Blackberry bliss were over. Soon after we looked into other retailers and found a place where our upgrade would actually mean something: Best Buy. Finally the dream seemed attainable again.
We entered the store almost three hours before closing on a Monday night hoping to get our upgrades and finally have the phones we have always wanted. However, it was not a pain-free experience. We had to have our mom there (whose bedtime was rapidly approaching) in order to authorize the account and give permission for changes made. After a few minutes of searching for phones, my sister and I had decided on the phones we each wanted, both only $29 a phone! What a steal! That feeling of rapture was short-lived when the phone I selected turned out to be $129 requiring me to rapidly become interested in the device my sister had picked out. This was another small obstacle encountered compared to what was to come.
The overall process of purchasing and set-up took almost three hours which was past the store’s closing as well as momma’s bedtime. Our time was filled with so many questions, options, and extras that the three of us were utterly exhausted by the end. Then the woman suggested we purchase armor for our phones in order to prevent scratches and other marks. She was really selling us on all the extras, just another day in the world of retail. After all was said and done we paid $60 each for the phone as well as the protective armor. Not a bad price for a slice of Blackberry pie.
Next we had to wait for another guy to fit both our devices with the armor, an extremely slow, intricate process filled with lots of pieces as well as patience. My sister is older and therefore got to have all her stuff done first which included the protective fitting leaving my phone and experience feeling like sloppy seconds. My guard was applied much faster with less precision causing it to peel almost immediately requiring a second trip back to the far north Scottsdale location. In spite of everything we left the store that night feeling exhausted, yet excited for the fun filled days of wireless internet and messaging to come. Unfortunately, it never would. A week later we still did not have internet causing much frustration and anger for my sister and I. Back to Best Buy for another round in the Blackberry abuse ring. As we went through the many menus and operators of T-Mobile customer care line, we wondered if it would ever lead to a happily ever after. We finally got through and discovered the ad charged us, but had “forgotten” to turn on the service they had already been taking our money for. They promised the error would be fixed, the internet would come on and the armor would be re-done. For now we are the somewhat happy owners of state of the art technology. It cost us a measly six total hours in the store, multiple calls to customer care, several re-fittings of armor, and a fiery associate who would not quit until we got our piece of the pie we deserved. It was worth it. Right?
Recently my sister and I had decided to use our “free” mobile upgrade from our wireless carrier in order to become proud Blackberry owners. What we thought would be a fun, painless experience quickly escalated in to a cellular nightmare. We have always had the typical, non-extravagant phones in the past and therefore had no idea of the complexity and education it requires to purchase, set-up, and use such a state of the art piece of equipment. We found out soon enough.
Our journey into the wonderful world of wireless began at our usual T-Mobile store in the mall. As we looked around the store at all the new phones and gadgets we realized how pricey the best stuff was. Surely our “free upgrade” would kick in allowing us to purchase a piece of the Blackberry pie for less. We soon spoke with an associate who broke the horrifying news: If we wanted Blackberries it would cost us $129 each for the phone alone not including activation, data and other fees. Disappointed and confused we left the store thinking our dreams of Blackberry bliss were over. Soon after we looked into other retailers and found a place where our upgrade would actually mean something: Best Buy. Finally the dream seemed attainable again.
We entered the store almost three hours before closing on a Monday night hoping to get our upgrades and finally have the phones we have always wanted. However, it was not a pain-free experience. We had to have our mom there (whose bedtime was rapidly approaching) in order to authorize the account and give permission for changes made. After a few minutes of searching for phones, my sister and I had decided on the phones we each wanted, both only $29 a phone! What a steal! That feeling of rapture was short-lived when the phone I selected turned out to be $129 requiring me to rapidly become interested in the device my sister had picked out. This was another small obstacle encountered compared to what was to come.
The overall process of purchasing and set-up took almost three hours which was past the store’s closing as well as momma’s bedtime. Our time was filled with so many questions, options, and extras that the three of us were utterly exhausted by the end. Then the woman suggested we purchase armor for our phones in order to prevent scratches and other marks. She was really selling us on all the extras, just another day in the world of retail. After all was said and done we paid $60 each for the phone as well as the protective armor. Not a bad price for a slice of Blackberry pie.
Next we had to wait for another guy to fit both our devices with the armor, an extremely slow, intricate process filled with lots of pieces as well as patience. My sister is older and therefore got to have all her stuff done first which included the protective fitting leaving my phone and experience feeling like sloppy seconds. My guard was applied much faster with less precision causing it to peel almost immediately requiring a second trip back to the far north Scottsdale location. In spite of everything we left the store that night feeling exhausted, yet excited for the fun filled days of wireless internet and messaging to come. Unfortunately, it never would. A week later we still did not have internet causing much frustration and anger for my sister and I. Back to Best Buy for another round in the Blackberry abuse ring. As we went through the many menus and operators of T-Mobile customer care line, we wondered if it would ever lead to a happily ever after. We finally got through and discovered the ad charged us, but had “forgotten” to turn on the service they had already been taking our money for. They promised the error would be fixed, the internet would come on and the armor would be re-done. For now we are the somewhat happy owners of state of the art technology. It cost us a measly six total hours in the store, multiple calls to customer care, several re-fittings of armor, and a fiery associate who would not quit until we got our piece of the pie we deserved. It was worth it. Right?
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Week 9 Blog Reviews
Week 9 Blog Reviews:
Ashley: I really liked your first post titled, “Don’t Compare Yourself to Others…Even Animals.” You had a great deal of support from our text to back up your points and really explain the article from your point of view without losing academic credibility. I also really liked how you described humans as being able to choose what they want and how to live their lives, while animals just do something to do it. It really gave a strong contrast between us and animals and how comparing the two just because some similarities exist, does not mean it is right. While the amount of support really enhanced your post, I felt their may have been too many quotes and facts taken directly from our readings. It felt like I was just reading a facts sheet on the topic instead of your argumentative piece. Finding a balance between quotes and your ideas (not personal thoughts) will make the piece flow much more.
For your second post I really liked the playful manner in which you presented the information; saying that it is the answer to all problems according to men. This just like your post before really incorporates facts from the text and the readings we completed. It seemed to have a bit more balance in comparison to the article before, but I still feel like you could fill in your paragraphs a little more before you present another fact. Inserting a fair amount of commentary to go along with your facts will really make your posts even more solid. I’ve really enjoyed your help and reading your papers during this unit! Good luck in the future!
Jess: I love your new background! The Halloween theme, cute ghosts, and spiders are so fun! In your first post (It’s Natural Attraction) I thought you had a really strong back-up points to your argument and really presented the difference between humans and animals. I really did not like how you ended both your introduction and your overall essay with quotations from the text. It took away from your overall argument on the topic and made your post seem like almost a summary of just the article. Your original sentences and ideas are what should make up the bulk of your paper. Your ideas are what matters!
Your second post, My Chemical Romance was well written and again had a great deal of support behind it. I really liked your part about being able to bottle the bond between mothers and children. I thought that section was really creative. It may just be a personal preference but I really did not like how many rhetorical questions you included in your posts. One may be acceptable in order to prove a point, but when several are incorporated it really distracts from your writing and overall points you are trying to make. Great writing this unit! Thank you so much for your input and criticism and good luck next section!
Ashley: I really liked your first post titled, “Don’t Compare Yourself to Others…Even Animals.” You had a great deal of support from our text to back up your points and really explain the article from your point of view without losing academic credibility. I also really liked how you described humans as being able to choose what they want and how to live their lives, while animals just do something to do it. It really gave a strong contrast between us and animals and how comparing the two just because some similarities exist, does not mean it is right. While the amount of support really enhanced your post, I felt their may have been too many quotes and facts taken directly from our readings. It felt like I was just reading a facts sheet on the topic instead of your argumentative piece. Finding a balance between quotes and your ideas (not personal thoughts) will make the piece flow much more.
For your second post I really liked the playful manner in which you presented the information; saying that it is the answer to all problems according to men. This just like your post before really incorporates facts from the text and the readings we completed. It seemed to have a bit more balance in comparison to the article before, but I still feel like you could fill in your paragraphs a little more before you present another fact. Inserting a fair amount of commentary to go along with your facts will really make your posts even more solid. I’ve really enjoyed your help and reading your papers during this unit! Good luck in the future!
Jess: I love your new background! The Halloween theme, cute ghosts, and spiders are so fun! In your first post (It’s Natural Attraction) I thought you had a really strong back-up points to your argument and really presented the difference between humans and animals. I really did not like how you ended both your introduction and your overall essay with quotations from the text. It took away from your overall argument on the topic and made your post seem like almost a summary of just the article. Your original sentences and ideas are what should make up the bulk of your paper. Your ideas are what matters!
Your second post, My Chemical Romance was well written and again had a great deal of support behind it. I really liked your part about being able to bottle the bond between mothers and children. I thought that section was really creative. It may just be a personal preference but I really did not like how many rhetorical questions you included in your posts. One may be acceptable in order to prove a point, but when several are incorporated it really distracts from your writing and overall points you are trying to make. Great writing this unit! Thank you so much for your input and criticism and good luck next section!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
What's Natural Nowadays?
What’s Natural Nowadays?
One of the hottest debates in the modern world is on the topic of homosexuality. Is it natural or is it not? Should same-sex unions be allowed in our society? Most people who sit on the religious side of this issue consider homosexuality to be abnormal, or against the natural way humans were created to act. Others believe the tendency to engage in same-sex relationships are like any other choice made throughout a lifetime, simply liking one option over the other or even a part of their genetic make-up presented at birth. Even though scientific observation and experimentation has shown the possibility of these ideas, people will still side on both ends of the issue.
In Jeffrey Kluger’s piece entitled, “The Gay Side of Nature” he discusses the different evidential findings regarding homosexual tendencies in animals (337). This article contains observations of over 450 species that participate in same-sex relations and behaviors (Kluger 338). The essay is basically trying to portray the idea that if animals do it without the influence of our modern society and its ideal behaviors it must be a natural act. What this article fails to mention that would significantly help its credibility is whether or not the animals being observed are in the wild, their typical environment, or if the couples are being watched in captivity. This missing piece of vital information would either solidify the argument or continue to raise more questions on the topic. One point that proves to be innovative as well as substantial is the fact that animals in general tend to be associated with what is considered to be natural, as well as corresponding to the behaviors we as humans take part in. Although certain actions are considered natural does not mean they are always correct or appropriate. In previous articles on the topic of love and reproduction several authors and findings say our purpose on earth is to preserve ourselves through our children and continuing generations. If this is the case, homosexuality and taking part in relationships when the end result will not be procreation lies within the realm of things that are unnatural. This of course does not mean same-sex relationships and unions cannot take place throughout a person’s lifetime, it just will not be (according to those who believe our only goal on earth is to produce children) natural.
Doing something that feels natural or is perceived as pure can be a beautiful thing, but it can also be offensive or inappropriate as well. For example, giving birth, falling in love, or having the call to help others is a part of life that has been deemed acceptable or typical. A person can experience these things usually without having to think twice about who is watching over them or what others think in general. Other natural feelings like arousal or anger are also a part of every person’s life, but what a person chooses to do with those emotions is what can turn inappropriate. If a man gets turned on by his wife in public it is not acceptable for him to “act” on those feelings in a community space, just as if another man gets upset over an altercation and chooses to release his anger through violence and destructive acts. It is in situations like these that our natural feelings and tendencies to take action on our emotions can lead to turmoil. Overall, feelings and the typical activities humans take part in are only considered ordinary because of those behaviors acted out in the past. Experts could be completely off-track making the behaviors and things we take part in daily the opposite of what really is the natural way. Who is really to judge what is natural or unnatural? Perhaps this should be the hot topic everyone should be discussing, instead of whether or not it is natural to fall in love or have a relationship with the same-sex.
One of the hottest debates in the modern world is on the topic of homosexuality. Is it natural or is it not? Should same-sex unions be allowed in our society? Most people who sit on the religious side of this issue consider homosexuality to be abnormal, or against the natural way humans were created to act. Others believe the tendency to engage in same-sex relationships are like any other choice made throughout a lifetime, simply liking one option over the other or even a part of their genetic make-up presented at birth. Even though scientific observation and experimentation has shown the possibility of these ideas, people will still side on both ends of the issue.
In Jeffrey Kluger’s piece entitled, “The Gay Side of Nature” he discusses the different evidential findings regarding homosexual tendencies in animals (337). This article contains observations of over 450 species that participate in same-sex relations and behaviors (Kluger 338). The essay is basically trying to portray the idea that if animals do it without the influence of our modern society and its ideal behaviors it must be a natural act. What this article fails to mention that would significantly help its credibility is whether or not the animals being observed are in the wild, their typical environment, or if the couples are being watched in captivity. This missing piece of vital information would either solidify the argument or continue to raise more questions on the topic. One point that proves to be innovative as well as substantial is the fact that animals in general tend to be associated with what is considered to be natural, as well as corresponding to the behaviors we as humans take part in. Although certain actions are considered natural does not mean they are always correct or appropriate. In previous articles on the topic of love and reproduction several authors and findings say our purpose on earth is to preserve ourselves through our children and continuing generations. If this is the case, homosexuality and taking part in relationships when the end result will not be procreation lies within the realm of things that are unnatural. This of course does not mean same-sex relationships and unions cannot take place throughout a person’s lifetime, it just will not be (according to those who believe our only goal on earth is to produce children) natural.
Doing something that feels natural or is perceived as pure can be a beautiful thing, but it can also be offensive or inappropriate as well. For example, giving birth, falling in love, or having the call to help others is a part of life that has been deemed acceptable or typical. A person can experience these things usually without having to think twice about who is watching over them or what others think in general. Other natural feelings like arousal or anger are also a part of every person’s life, but what a person chooses to do with those emotions is what can turn inappropriate. If a man gets turned on by his wife in public it is not acceptable for him to “act” on those feelings in a community space, just as if another man gets upset over an altercation and chooses to release his anger through violence and destructive acts. It is in situations like these that our natural feelings and tendencies to take action on our emotions can lead to turmoil. Overall, feelings and the typical activities humans take part in are only considered ordinary because of those behaviors acted out in the past. Experts could be completely off-track making the behaviors and things we take part in daily the opposite of what really is the natural way. Who is really to judge what is natural or unnatural? Perhaps this should be the hot topic everyone should be discussing, instead of whether or not it is natural to fall in love or have a relationship with the same-sex.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
More than Just Reproduction
There are many aspects that make a relationship successful, whether it is from a romantic point of view or even a friendship. While some believe that interaction and the idea of bonds between people are nothing more than chemical reactions or the mere fact that as humans we are supposed to find “the one” and reproduce, others know there are many more factors that make a relationship successful. Even though some professionals will continue to compare human unions to those of animals and scientific theories, others are convinced that it takes much more than science in order to create a lasting bond. No matter what statistics or professionals say in the end, each relationship is unique with its own ups and downs as well as what really goes on behind the scenes in order to keep the love alive.
Not every aspect of life needs to be broken down into the overall goal of mankind: reproduction. In Helen Fisher’s “After All, Maybe it’s…Biology” she constantly makes connections between modern dating and previous civilization offerings in exchange for mating (303). While there is clearly evidence that behavior stays similar throughout history, not all actions and emotions can be broken down into simply sex and child-bearing. This particular author also completely drags love at first sight through the mud by reducing a romantic act into nothing more than something squirrels do in order to procreate (Fisher 305). For most people finding a lasting, loving relationship is much more important than simply having children, although it usually is a part of marriage. In today’s world finding a suitable mate over a short period of time and attempting to procreate is not on anybody’s list of goals to accomplish.
Chemistry is an important part of any relationship. A romantic union will rarely be successful and happy if those within the relationship are not attracted to one another. While the aspect of chemistry and personal attraction cannot be denied, it typically is not the only factor within a man and woman’s bond together. Trust, items in common, communication, and the ability to grow as a couple are just a few of the traits most look for and strive to achieve in their relationships and marriages everyday. As mentioned above, each connection is unique, using individual aspects of love, attraction, and communication in order to make it successful. Something as complex and intense as love and lasting relationships should never be reduced to simply chemistry or biology. Even though the author believes scientifically love fades after only a few years, hopeless romantics will prevail and keep the multi-layered aspects of true love and relationships alive.
Not every aspect of life needs to be broken down into the overall goal of mankind: reproduction. In Helen Fisher’s “After All, Maybe it’s…Biology” she constantly makes connections between modern dating and previous civilization offerings in exchange for mating (303). While there is clearly evidence that behavior stays similar throughout history, not all actions and emotions can be broken down into simply sex and child-bearing. This particular author also completely drags love at first sight through the mud by reducing a romantic act into nothing more than something squirrels do in order to procreate (Fisher 305). For most people finding a lasting, loving relationship is much more important than simply having children, although it usually is a part of marriage. In today’s world finding a suitable mate over a short period of time and attempting to procreate is not on anybody’s list of goals to accomplish.
Chemistry is an important part of any relationship. A romantic union will rarely be successful and happy if those within the relationship are not attracted to one another. While the aspect of chemistry and personal attraction cannot be denied, it typically is not the only factor within a man and woman’s bond together. Trust, items in common, communication, and the ability to grow as a couple are just a few of the traits most look for and strive to achieve in their relationships and marriages everyday. As mentioned above, each connection is unique, using individual aspects of love, attraction, and communication in order to make it successful. Something as complex and intense as love and lasting relationships should never be reduced to simply chemistry or biology. Even though the author believes scientifically love fades after only a few years, hopeless romantics will prevail and keep the multi-layered aspects of true love and relationships alive.
Week 8 Blog Reviews
Week 8 Blog Reviews
Ashley: In your blog entitled, “Leave Marriage Alone” I thought you did a really great job of incorporating the opinions and facts that were offered in our readings that week. The quotes and pieces from the readings used really enhanced the point you were trying to make. I felt like your title was setting me up to hear all about how marriage should remain within our society, but after reading your post I got a negative response from the topic. You pointed out many of the hardships and issues that the union of marriage is facing today which counteracts your original title. Your introduction paragraph also focused a great deal on the “heterosexual” aspect of marriage, but in reality most thoughts on the subject ended there. If you re-organized your essay, as well as changed your title I think you would have a very thought-out, supported essay.
Your other blog post, “Are you listening to me?” really hit home for me (as you can tell by my past post). I thought it was really interesting how you incorporated authors from last week as well as your own personal experiences in order to make an interesting and more solid argument. I also really liked how you made a reading suggestion for those of us who deal with similar issues. I agree that Tannen is biased within her article and that we as readers should not believe everything an author puts in front of us. I felt like your essay jumped from topics a great deal though, starting with same sex friendships then going to relationship communication, and then discussing things within marriage. My only suggestions would be to really focus on one specific topic and really drive your point home. Great writing this week!
Jess: In your essay, “Are you just Hearing?” I thought you made really good points as well as used personal experiences to prove those ideas. I also really enjoyed how you brought in a different idea regarding the topic of you may be hearing but you just are not listening. I thought your piece might have been more successful if you had really incorporated things from the male point of view. You mentioned how women respond in conversation and when they listen but did not really discuss what men do.
In the “Evolution of Relationships” I really liked all of your support for your arguments. You used Disney movies, our readings, as well as statistics to really show how our society is as well as what we believe in now. I also like how you chose not to defend one side of the argument, but rather proved points for both sides. I’m not sure about the small section directly below your essay, maybe just a typo? I would try to just narrow your topic down into something you can go in great depth about instead of discussing so many different topics. Overall, great job this week! I look forward to reading your writing as well.
Ashley: In your blog entitled, “Leave Marriage Alone” I thought you did a really great job of incorporating the opinions and facts that were offered in our readings that week. The quotes and pieces from the readings used really enhanced the point you were trying to make. I felt like your title was setting me up to hear all about how marriage should remain within our society, but after reading your post I got a negative response from the topic. You pointed out many of the hardships and issues that the union of marriage is facing today which counteracts your original title. Your introduction paragraph also focused a great deal on the “heterosexual” aspect of marriage, but in reality most thoughts on the subject ended there. If you re-organized your essay, as well as changed your title I think you would have a very thought-out, supported essay.
Your other blog post, “Are you listening to me?” really hit home for me (as you can tell by my past post). I thought it was really interesting how you incorporated authors from last week as well as your own personal experiences in order to make an interesting and more solid argument. I also really liked how you made a reading suggestion for those of us who deal with similar issues. I agree that Tannen is biased within her article and that we as readers should not believe everything an author puts in front of us. I felt like your essay jumped from topics a great deal though, starting with same sex friendships then going to relationship communication, and then discussing things within marriage. My only suggestions would be to really focus on one specific topic and really drive your point home. Great writing this week!
Jess: In your essay, “Are you just Hearing?” I thought you made really good points as well as used personal experiences to prove those ideas. I also really enjoyed how you brought in a different idea regarding the topic of you may be hearing but you just are not listening. I thought your piece might have been more successful if you had really incorporated things from the male point of view. You mentioned how women respond in conversation and when they listen but did not really discuss what men do.
In the “Evolution of Relationships” I really liked all of your support for your arguments. You used Disney movies, our readings, as well as statistics to really show how our society is as well as what we believe in now. I also like how you chose not to defend one side of the argument, but rather proved points for both sides. I’m not sure about the small section directly below your essay, maybe just a typo? I would try to just narrow your topic down into something you can go in great depth about instead of discussing so many different topics. Overall, great job this week! I look forward to reading your writing as well.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Team Monogamy!
Till death parts us. Most recognize these words as the bonding between man and woman in matrimony, a sacrament that has come under fire over the last few decades. Not only has discussion of same-sex marriage been a hot topic, but the constantly increasing divorce rate in America has been at the forefront of marriage talks. Some believe that marriage is unnecessary; that receiving a paper does not signify undying, devoted love or that until all are allowed to join in union they simply will not partake. Robert Wright, author of Our Cheating Hearts, claims that although humans are thought to be one of the most monogamous creatures on earth it is simple not the truth (279). Although the divorce rate is higher than ever, and some scientific research is showing the human struggle with staying with one mate, the idea of heterosexual, monogamous marriage should stay in full effect.
“Human beings were called a ‘pair-bonding’ species (Wright, 279).” This means that humans, for the most part, tend to find one another in the hopes of a happy union as well as the opportunity to create their own family together. In the past divorce or separation was considered disgraceful and was deeply frowned upon by society; but in the modern world it seems to be acceptable for men and women to marry a few times, or at least until they “get it right.” Research shows that people are engineered to fall in love; an emotion which seems to be one of the most important when couples decided to whether or not to take their relationship to the next level or not (Wright, 280). Marriage is the step that solidifies one person’s commitment to another, it never states the road will always be easy or troubles will not find them, but rather calls on a couple to figure out how to stay together during those challenges as well as the happy times. Men and women now more than ever need to rise above the high divorce rate and beat the odds in order to make it to that coveted “golden anniversary.”
Even though adultery and small emotional relationships on the side have been more prevalent in the recent times, it does not make the behavior appropriate. Wright stated in his article, “It is natural for both men and women-at some times, under some circumstances- to commit adultery or to sour on a mate, to suddenly find a spouse unattractive, irritating, wholly unreasonable (280).” While this statement is circumstantially true and supported by evolutionary psychology, it does not mean an affair or stepping out on a partner is acceptable. Obviously in every marriage or relationship there have been times when arguments have ensued or a re-evaluation of what works and what does not in the union, but the lust felt for the cute guy in the office may not lead to action. Self control and remembering the promises made to one another can really make a difference in a marriage. Monogamy has more challenges and disbelievers than ever in the modern world, but it does not mean that love and a man and woman’s true devotion to one another cannot prevail.
“Human beings were called a ‘pair-bonding’ species (Wright, 279).” This means that humans, for the most part, tend to find one another in the hopes of a happy union as well as the opportunity to create their own family together. In the past divorce or separation was considered disgraceful and was deeply frowned upon by society; but in the modern world it seems to be acceptable for men and women to marry a few times, or at least until they “get it right.” Research shows that people are engineered to fall in love; an emotion which seems to be one of the most important when couples decided to whether or not to take their relationship to the next level or not (Wright, 280). Marriage is the step that solidifies one person’s commitment to another, it never states the road will always be easy or troubles will not find them, but rather calls on a couple to figure out how to stay together during those challenges as well as the happy times. Men and women now more than ever need to rise above the high divorce rate and beat the odds in order to make it to that coveted “golden anniversary.”
Even though adultery and small emotional relationships on the side have been more prevalent in the recent times, it does not make the behavior appropriate. Wright stated in his article, “It is natural for both men and women-at some times, under some circumstances- to commit adultery or to sour on a mate, to suddenly find a spouse unattractive, irritating, wholly unreasonable (280).” While this statement is circumstantially true and supported by evolutionary psychology, it does not mean an affair or stepping out on a partner is acceptable. Obviously in every marriage or relationship there have been times when arguments have ensued or a re-evaluation of what works and what does not in the union, but the lust felt for the cute guy in the office may not lead to action. Self control and remembering the promises made to one another can really make a difference in a marriage. Monogamy has more challenges and disbelievers than ever in the modern world, but it does not mean that love and a man and woman’s true devotion to one another cannot prevail.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Reviews for Week 6!
Week 6 Blog Reviews:
Ashley: I really liked your blog about the modern family. I thought you incorporated the ideas of D’ Emilio really well, and also used modern examples in order to show that family values have changed. I would encourage you to include more complex sentences in your blog, maybe it is a personal preference of mine, but when you have such short statements it gives the post a choppier feel. I think comparing past to present more would have helped your argument as well. Capitalism is the view today but what did people follow back then or how did families interact without the use of modern conveniences?
I thought your next post was great as well. Most of us have seen the film so it was really easy to follow and relate to. I like how you mentioned the disappearance of the 1950’s housewife; I thought that was really well done. I think you may have mixed up the characters when you were citing them near the beginning, so watch for that and also make sure you finish an entire thought. At one point you say that the girls were only 18 but allowed to take this crazy road trip across the country, but left it at that. I think if you had mentioned this is not typically how parents are or another reason why this attributes the movie to the topic of “wild women” I think it would have been more successful. I hope this next unit will be tons of fun! Great work!
Jess: I agree with Ashley! Your blog is very cute! I loved your opening sentence in your piece about heterosexual idealism. It really got me prepared for the topic and post I was getting ready to read. I also really liked how you compared past and present life. It really supports your essay’s ideas because it gives the reader a chance to see the then and now result. I think you needed to relate your post more towards the modern American family, which I believe was the topic for this week’s essay. While I really liked your interesting take on the different technology (sex-change operations) I feel like you could have linked all of it together, such as how families have changed as well as what technology has done to change it.
I’m really glad you found such a great substitution! I really struggled with the assignment as well. I liked how you went into detail about the two characters and described their mannerisms as well as their everyday occurrences. I also liked the connection between Wallace and Mr. Schuester; it really gave your article direction and support. I failed to see the connection between the characters and the prompt. It seemed like just a character description (which I liked) but then failed to relate to the topic of “wild men.” The sophomore went out of his comfort zone in order to feel more in tune with his true self, and the teacher did everything he could to please his wife but I do not see how that makes them real “wild men.” I’m looking forward to being in your group this time around! Keep up the great writing!
Ashley: I really liked your blog about the modern family. I thought you incorporated the ideas of D’ Emilio really well, and also used modern examples in order to show that family values have changed. I would encourage you to include more complex sentences in your blog, maybe it is a personal preference of mine, but when you have such short statements it gives the post a choppier feel. I think comparing past to present more would have helped your argument as well. Capitalism is the view today but what did people follow back then or how did families interact without the use of modern conveniences?
I thought your next post was great as well. Most of us have seen the film so it was really easy to follow and relate to. I like how you mentioned the disappearance of the 1950’s housewife; I thought that was really well done. I think you may have mixed up the characters when you were citing them near the beginning, so watch for that and also make sure you finish an entire thought. At one point you say that the girls were only 18 but allowed to take this crazy road trip across the country, but left it at that. I think if you had mentioned this is not typically how parents are or another reason why this attributes the movie to the topic of “wild women” I think it would have been more successful. I hope this next unit will be tons of fun! Great work!
Jess: I agree with Ashley! Your blog is very cute! I loved your opening sentence in your piece about heterosexual idealism. It really got me prepared for the topic and post I was getting ready to read. I also really liked how you compared past and present life. It really supports your essay’s ideas because it gives the reader a chance to see the then and now result. I think you needed to relate your post more towards the modern American family, which I believe was the topic for this week’s essay. While I really liked your interesting take on the different technology (sex-change operations) I feel like you could have linked all of it together, such as how families have changed as well as what technology has done to change it.
I’m really glad you found such a great substitution! I really struggled with the assignment as well. I liked how you went into detail about the two characters and described their mannerisms as well as their everyday occurrences. I also liked the connection between Wallace and Mr. Schuester; it really gave your article direction and support. I failed to see the connection between the characters and the prompt. It seemed like just a character description (which I liked) but then failed to relate to the topic of “wild men.” The sophomore went out of his comfort zone in order to feel more in tune with his true self, and the teacher did everything he could to please his wife but I do not see how that makes them real “wild men.” I’m looking forward to being in your group this time around! Keep up the great writing!
Directed Freewrite
The other day my boyfriend Dylan and I decided to go for a long bike ride. The seemingly scorching Arizona heat had disappeared overnight and a little bit of exercise as well as time out of the house was all the motivation we needed to go. He has been riding a bike for most of his life and it is also his main form of transportation around town, while I on the other hand have not ridden a bike since elementary school. For my last birthday my parents bought me a beautiful, bright yellow beach cruiser complete with matching wire basket. I truly loved the gift but was uncertain about my ability to properly use it as much as I should. Dylan assured me we would have a great time and I would catch on quickly. Like the old saying, “It’s like riding a bike” you never really forget how to do it. In this case, that saying was wrong.
We started out around the neighborhood with wide sidewalks and slow traffic streets, and then gradually moved up to the canal and my now least favorite place to ride: Old Town Scottsdale. We stopped every once and awhile to pop into a French cooking shop or a small pizzeria for dinner which seemed like the perfect activities to include along our ride. It soon turned dark and we realized we had wandered farther into the maze of small streets and sharp turns than we wanted to. I soon became frustrated and anxious when I discovered how difficult it was to maneuver these tiny turns especially in the dark. While Dylan easily glided through the town, I wobbled and constantly needed to use my feet for guidance on the ground. I kept trying to tell him I could not go so fast or through such small spaces as easily as he could, but he did not really seem to understand my struggle. It started out as a fun, innocent adventure soon turned into a terrible nightmare.
Dylan was constantly cutting across streets as the light turned yellow making it impossible for me, at my current bike-riding skill level, to keep up. I voiced over and over how I could not keep up at his pace or steer what I now call my “big yellow boat” down such difficult paths. He told me he thought I was right behind him or able to move where he was leading us, but I felt like he just did not get it. After I got left behind again and wiggled down yet another staggered pathway, I lost it. I began to cry in the middle of the park while my boyfriend stared at me in horror. I told him that he never listens to me, while he claimed he was only trying to help. We went back and forth accusing one another of either listening issues on my side, and the fact that I needed to relax on his. In reality we were simply misreading each other’s intentions. If I had read this particular article before we had gone for our ride, perhaps I would have realized that he was not trying to make my life more difficult, but rather was trying to help me. While I do not believe our communication in general is lacking, this article helped me discover that he and I have different ways of showing that we understand or that we really are listening. Next time we are in a similar situation, I will be sure to try to look at it from his point of view and believe him when he tells me he is listening. The article seemed to really promote understanding as well as compromise from both sides of a conflict within a relationship which is something every couple or even friends go through in order to make their relationship work. Hopefully in the future I will remember this article before I begin to cry in the middle of the park on a never-ending bike ride.
Tannen, Deborah. Communications- He Said/ She Said. You Just Don't Understand.
We started out around the neighborhood with wide sidewalks and slow traffic streets, and then gradually moved up to the canal and my now least favorite place to ride: Old Town Scottsdale. We stopped every once and awhile to pop into a French cooking shop or a small pizzeria for dinner which seemed like the perfect activities to include along our ride. It soon turned dark and we realized we had wandered farther into the maze of small streets and sharp turns than we wanted to. I soon became frustrated and anxious when I discovered how difficult it was to maneuver these tiny turns especially in the dark. While Dylan easily glided through the town, I wobbled and constantly needed to use my feet for guidance on the ground. I kept trying to tell him I could not go so fast or through such small spaces as easily as he could, but he did not really seem to understand my struggle. It started out as a fun, innocent adventure soon turned into a terrible nightmare.
Dylan was constantly cutting across streets as the light turned yellow making it impossible for me, at my current bike-riding skill level, to keep up. I voiced over and over how I could not keep up at his pace or steer what I now call my “big yellow boat” down such difficult paths. He told me he thought I was right behind him or able to move where he was leading us, but I felt like he just did not get it. After I got left behind again and wiggled down yet another staggered pathway, I lost it. I began to cry in the middle of the park while my boyfriend stared at me in horror. I told him that he never listens to me, while he claimed he was only trying to help. We went back and forth accusing one another of either listening issues on my side, and the fact that I needed to relax on his. In reality we were simply misreading each other’s intentions. If I had read this particular article before we had gone for our ride, perhaps I would have realized that he was not trying to make my life more difficult, but rather was trying to help me. While I do not believe our communication in general is lacking, this article helped me discover that he and I have different ways of showing that we understand or that we really are listening. Next time we are in a similar situation, I will be sure to try to look at it from his point of view and believe him when he tells me he is listening. The article seemed to really promote understanding as well as compromise from both sides of a conflict within a relationship which is something every couple or even friends go through in order to make their relationship work. Hopefully in the future I will remember this article before I begin to cry in the middle of the park on a never-ending bike ride.
Tannen, Deborah. Communications- He Said/ She Said. You Just Don't Understand.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Technology Changes the American Family
The American Family has changed a great deal over the last few centuries. Like author of Capitalism and Gay Identity John D’Emilio said in his article, our country once depended on the individual family unit and their ability to create food and other textiles for their survival (228). We are now a society that lives separate lives and relies on the headset in our ear, or a computer beneath our fingertips. Back then it was unheard of to live away from the other members in your family because it meant you were depriving them of your hands and labor that was mandatory for the family to survive. In today’s world children are able to study abroad without worrying about their family’s survival. Even though our economy and life as we know it is changing, the ability to be a strong family unit is still possible.
As D’Emilio explained in his article, one-hundred years ago the economy and well-being of a community all depended on how a family was able to work together in order to have food, clothing, and other necessities available (230). Technology has now created more opportunities and techniques to make everything easier for the world. Technology has also changed the way in which families interact and keep in touch with one another. A child can move across country and still communicate with their family through email, text messaging, and the up and coming Skype which actually allows people to see one another while talking. Without the assistance of technology and other forms of communication, the typical American family may not have had the opportunity to change to the level it is at today.
D’Emilio, John. “Capitalism and Gay Identity.” Powers of Desire: The Politics of Sexuality. By: Monthly Review Press. 1983.
As D’Emilio explained in his article, one-hundred years ago the economy and well-being of a community all depended on how a family was able to work together in order to have food, clothing, and other necessities available (230). Technology has now created more opportunities and techniques to make everything easier for the world. Technology has also changed the way in which families interact and keep in touch with one another. A child can move across country and still communicate with their family through email, text messaging, and the up and coming Skype which actually allows people to see one another while talking. Without the assistance of technology and other forms of communication, the typical American family may not have had the opportunity to change to the level it is at today.
D’Emilio, John. “Capitalism and Gay Identity.” Powers of Desire: The Politics of Sexuality. By: Monthly Review Press. 1983.
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