http://www.mtv.com/?source=CTY_UK
This website typifies America because MTV is an all American brand, it always plays mostly American artists; American reality shows and promotes American celebrity’s.
I think that MTV really brings the American culture to the rest of the world, and Americanizes today’s youth, who watch reality TV shows and often endeavor to be like their reality stars.
This website displays an abundance of the reality shows, such as, “My Super Suite 16” and American blockbuster movies such as, “Pirates of the Caribbean”, as well as American artists like, Miley Cyrus.
I think that this MTV website is very American, as it shows a lot of America’s contemporary culture, which is very much a celebrity society.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Crash Review
http://dustinputman.com/reviews/c/05_crash.htm
I decided to use this review of Crash, due to its "middle ground" nature. Rather then taking such a strong and opposing view as many reviews do, Dustin Putman delivers his review as one that recognizes Crash's faults yet still agrees it is an incredible film. Putman's opening paragraph states how the Directors edgy and candid shots creates a raw atmosphere, very appropriate for the film.
The review talks about all aspects of the film, from the acting, to the choice of actors, talking about whether it was a right choice or not. Putman goes on to say that using such high prolific actors didn't take any of the meaning away from the film itself, and every single one of the actors chosen gave a superb performance. He mentions Sandra Bullock first, declaring her performance a complete turn around from those we have previously seen her in and know her for. Her gritty performance of a woman who only starts to become racist after two black men (played by rapper Ludacris and Larenz Tate) hijack her car is miles apart from her performance in Miss Congeniality.
Putman finishes his review by declaring Crash to be "An unforgettable series of snapshots into a modern world that still breeds unavoidable prejudices toward anyone different from ourselves" which i think creates the perfect image of the film.
I decided to use this review of Crash, due to its "middle ground" nature. Rather then taking such a strong and opposing view as many reviews do, Dustin Putman delivers his review as one that recognizes Crash's faults yet still agrees it is an incredible film. Putman's opening paragraph states how the Directors edgy and candid shots creates a raw atmosphere, very appropriate for the film.
The review talks about all aspects of the film, from the acting, to the choice of actors, talking about whether it was a right choice or not. Putman goes on to say that using such high prolific actors didn't take any of the meaning away from the film itself, and every single one of the actors chosen gave a superb performance. He mentions Sandra Bullock first, declaring her performance a complete turn around from those we have previously seen her in and know her for. Her gritty performance of a woman who only starts to become racist after two black men (played by rapper Ludacris and Larenz Tate) hijack her car is miles apart from her performance in Miss Congeniality.
Putman finishes his review by declaring Crash to be "An unforgettable series of snapshots into a modern world that still breeds unavoidable prejudices toward anyone different from ourselves" which i think creates the perfect image of the film.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Frontier Mentality in the US:
http://www.edf.org/article.cfm?contentID=7030
This article is about settlers in central Texas and the natural resources it had to offer them. It talks about the abundance of resources available at the time of their settlement. It also talks about Texas landowners today still having the frontier mentality, enjoying America’s natural resources and doing what they can “invest in their land and build, rather then diminish, its habitat potential. They have the new frontier mentality of putting something back on the land, rather then the setter mentality of taking something away.”
It is about Americans appreciating their natural resources and their natural inhabitants.
This article is about settlers in central Texas and the natural resources it had to offer them. It talks about the abundance of resources available at the time of their settlement. It also talks about Texas landowners today still having the frontier mentality, enjoying America’s natural resources and doing what they can “invest in their land and build, rather then diminish, its habitat potential. They have the new frontier mentality of putting something back on the land, rather then the setter mentality of taking something away.”
It is about Americans appreciating their natural resources and their natural inhabitants.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Historical Images of the West:
This picture is a painting by William Ranney's Advice on the prairie. it depicts a group, which looks to be a family travelling to the West in a rounded wagon which are typical of Western movies. The scene is of the group of people taking a break during their journey. It is a classical historic picture of the movement to the west.
This photograph shows real cowboys, who were mostly blacks and mexicans, who didn't lead glamorous lives, saving the day, saving damsels in distress and starting bar brawls. In the picture the cowboys look solemn and seem to be taking a break from herding cattle also.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Consumerism in America
http://members.aol.com/mediatheory/www/consumerism.html
I found this website article which talks about consumerism and its effects in America. It speask about how the whole American culture is driven by consumerism. The American people in a sence are no longer their own, insted they are 'owned' by the clothes they wear, the food they eat and the things they choose to buy. The things they buy are very much prominent in their identity and saying who they as a person are. If they wear a nike top then they are clearly a sports person. Also, the idea is mentioned that wealth is the decideding factor in society. If you can afford to buy things then you do and people can see you being a consumer.
The article does mention however the difference between consumerism today and how it was in the 1950's;
Perhaps consumers of the 1950’s were passive and purchased everything that was advertised but consumers at the turn of the millennium are much more educated.
It speaks about how people are less likely to be drawn in by just simple adverts or seeing the products. Today the complanies have to make it more personal and show the consumer that they will have a form of individualism. This today is their main selling point.
With advertising in todays society it is not hard to get an advert out to a particular audience, as the article says:
there is at least one television in every home and one computer in approximately 60% of homes
There is no problem with getting your advert across to the American people. Maybe it is because of this that consumerism can travel so fast. However this cannot be just defined to America, the same is probably true of countries like Britain and European countries.
I found this website article which talks about consumerism and its effects in America. It speask about how the whole American culture is driven by consumerism. The American people in a sence are no longer their own, insted they are 'owned' by the clothes they wear, the food they eat and the things they choose to buy. The things they buy are very much prominent in their identity and saying who they as a person are. If they wear a nike top then they are clearly a sports person. Also, the idea is mentioned that wealth is the decideding factor in society. If you can afford to buy things then you do and people can see you being a consumer.
The article does mention however the difference between consumerism today and how it was in the 1950's;
Perhaps consumers of the 1950’s were passive and purchased everything that was advertised but consumers at the turn of the millennium are much more educated.
It speaks about how people are less likely to be drawn in by just simple adverts or seeing the products. Today the complanies have to make it more personal and show the consumer that they will have a form of individualism. This today is their main selling point.
With advertising in todays society it is not hard to get an advert out to a particular audience, as the article says:
there is at least one television in every home and one computer in approximately 60% of homes
There is no problem with getting your advert across to the American people. Maybe it is because of this that consumerism can travel so fast. However this cannot be just defined to America, the same is probably true of countries like Britain and European countries.
Crash review
http://www.contactmusic.com/new/film.nsf/reviews/crash
For my Crash review i have chosen to do this one which is writen by contact music.com. I think that this review brings out the important storylines of the film and makes some interesting comments. I particulary like the end quote:
"Crash" is not a film that will change the world or be permanently emblazoned on your mind. But it does get at the simple truths of racial discord in society in a way that is absorbing, intelligent, thought-provoking, and yet entirely accessible.
I found this really interesting because the reviewer in my opinion has completely understood the point of the film. In a sence realistically a film cannot change the world. yes it may have an effect on us and make us go home thinking deeply about how view the issues the film covers but normally within a couple of hours we've forgotton about what we've seen, just because of the hectic lifestyles which we live. I found this film really moving, just the way different peoples lives literally 'crash' into each other. It made me think more about how my actions can effect someone else and the consequences of my actions on other people.
The review picks up on one of the storylines which the review refures to as the more powerful storyline. This storyline featuring Matt Dillion is one which i think is prominante. It is one of those moment where you as the audience think that you have the character all worked out and then they go and do something which totally surprises you, and makes you rethink your opinion of them.
The film 'lays bare many social and psychological issues that generally get swept under the rug of the American consciousness. i think that this quote is really interesting and i'm not sure if i totally agree with it. i don't think America speep many psychological issues under the rug, i think that they haven't found a solution to these problems but theyaren't tried to be hidden away. I think this film does help though with highlighting the issues so people remember.
For my Crash review i have chosen to do this one which is writen by contact music.com. I think that this review brings out the important storylines of the film and makes some interesting comments. I particulary like the end quote:
"Crash" is not a film that will change the world or be permanently emblazoned on your mind. But it does get at the simple truths of racial discord in society in a way that is absorbing, intelligent, thought-provoking, and yet entirely accessible.
I found this really interesting because the reviewer in my opinion has completely understood the point of the film. In a sence realistically a film cannot change the world. yes it may have an effect on us and make us go home thinking deeply about how view the issues the film covers but normally within a couple of hours we've forgotton about what we've seen, just because of the hectic lifestyles which we live. I found this film really moving, just the way different peoples lives literally 'crash' into each other. It made me think more about how my actions can effect someone else and the consequences of my actions on other people.
The review picks up on one of the storylines which the review refures to as the more powerful storyline. This storyline featuring Matt Dillion is one which i think is prominante. It is one of those moment where you as the audience think that you have the character all worked out and then they go and do something which totally surprises you, and makes you rethink your opinion of them.
The film 'lays bare many social and psychological issues that generally get swept under the rug of the American consciousness. i think that this quote is really interesting and i'm not sure if i totally agree with it. i don't think America speep many psychological issues under the rug, i think that they haven't found a solution to these problems but theyaren't tried to be hidden away. I think this film does help though with highlighting the issues so people remember.
http://www.chrisjordan.com/current_set2.php
CONSUMERISM
The website I have chosen is entitled ‘An American self portrait’ which is a fitting title to what the author has done, which shows cleverly the shocking extent that Americans over consume by putting it into pictures of all the waste they produce such as the airlines figures of how many plastic and paper cups they go through every few hours. “Plastic Cups, 200860x90" Depicts one million plastic cups, the number used on airline flights in the US every six hours.”
Although this website doesn’t analyse and comment upon the issues that are problematical of consumerism I think that the pictures echo the problem in its own way that does not need any words, as the figures and the accompanying pictures makes it shocking for someone to visualise the full extent of how much waste they go through and consumerism particularly of SUV’s bought in 2004. The picture depicting this is quite astonishing “Valve Caps, 200610x25 feet in five vertical panels. Depicts 3.6 million tire valve caps, one for each new SUV sold in the US in 2004.”
I found this website very eye opening into realising just how bad and vast our consumerism can be when putting everyone’s contribution together. It really makes you question how much you consume yourself and its effect upon the environment particularly by looking at the picture of the plastic bottles that America goes through every five minutes (two million!).
The website I have chosen is entitled ‘An American self portrait’ which is a fitting title to what the author has done, which shows cleverly the shocking extent that Americans over consume by putting it into pictures of all the waste they produce such as the airlines figures of how many plastic and paper cups they go through every few hours. “Plastic Cups, 200860x90" Depicts one million plastic cups, the number used on airline flights in the US every six hours.”
Although this website doesn’t analyse and comment upon the issues that are problematical of consumerism I think that the pictures echo the problem in its own way that does not need any words, as the figures and the accompanying pictures makes it shocking for someone to visualise the full extent of how much waste they go through and consumerism particularly of SUV’s bought in 2004. The picture depicting this is quite astonishing “Valve Caps, 200610x25 feet in five vertical panels. Depicts 3.6 million tire valve caps, one for each new SUV sold in the US in 2004.”
I found this website very eye opening into realising just how bad and vast our consumerism can be when putting everyone’s contribution together. It really makes you question how much you consume yourself and its effect upon the environment particularly by looking at the picture of the plastic bottles that America goes through every five minutes (two million!).
http://www.cinemablend.com/reviews/Crash-972.html
The reason why I have chosen this website is because it is quite analytical in explaining the concept behind Crash, and how the irregular narrative line makes it an interesting film to watch. “The dialogue is blistering and full of weight as characters discuss heavy topics like race, poverty, and the American institution.”
He then goes on to describe what happens in the storyline, with his thoughts behind his experience watching the film in what he thought of it and its affect upon himself.
“It’s the sort of film you wish you could force everyone to see, it leaves you with the perhaps painfully naïve conviction that if only enough people saw it then the world might be a better place.”
This is quite a personally opinion on his behalf, which I don’t quite agree with, I find it hard to believe that a film like this can change someone’s opinions as the non linear narrative breaks down any emotional connection between the characters and the viewer only leaving them with the political and cultural topics that were raised within the film. The discontinuity of a linear narrative creates a distancing effect (Verfremdungseffekt), therefore I believe only raising awareness to these issues of racism and not provoking any emotional change to the viewers. If watching this film in his opinion could change people’s ideas and attitudes towards racism then we would have already seen a slight change to the world today, especially considering this film was critically acclaimed and won several Oscars upon the year of release.
I do however think that it is a good film to be made and try to produce this awareness of the issues that it raises as it reflects American culture and society today as I believe it is a country that is racially divided particularly with the negative attitude towards immigration both illegal and legal being an important topic upon Americans there today.
The reviewer gives an overall good critique of the film however doesn’t point out any negatives, such as it does give a broad range of characters but has the absence of any American Asian characters that also make up a big part of the American ethnic population. It would have been interesting to see a representation of this ethnic group as I'm sure that they face just as much discrimination as the black or hispanic character within the film.
He then goes on to describe what happens in the storyline, with his thoughts behind his experience watching the film in what he thought of it and its affect upon himself.
“It’s the sort of film you wish you could force everyone to see, it leaves you with the perhaps painfully naïve conviction that if only enough people saw it then the world might be a better place.”
This is quite a personally opinion on his behalf, which I don’t quite agree with, I find it hard to believe that a film like this can change someone’s opinions as the non linear narrative breaks down any emotional connection between the characters and the viewer only leaving them with the political and cultural topics that were raised within the film. The discontinuity of a linear narrative creates a distancing effect (Verfremdungseffekt), therefore I believe only raising awareness to these issues of racism and not provoking any emotional change to the viewers. If watching this film in his opinion could change people’s ideas and attitudes towards racism then we would have already seen a slight change to the world today, especially considering this film was critically acclaimed and won several Oscars upon the year of release.
I do however think that it is a good film to be made and try to produce this awareness of the issues that it raises as it reflects American culture and society today as I believe it is a country that is racially divided particularly with the negative attitude towards immigration both illegal and legal being an important topic upon Americans there today.
The reviewer gives an overall good critique of the film however doesn’t point out any negatives, such as it does give a broad range of characters but has the absence of any American Asian characters that also make up a big part of the American ethnic population. It would have been interesting to see a representation of this ethnic group as I'm sure that they face just as much discrimination as the black or hispanic character within the film.
McDonalds, gains more then just food for consumers:
http://www.catwalkqueen.tv/2006/05/mcdonalds_fashi.html
This web page really shoes the lengths some people will go to as a consumer of brand names in America. It shows that not only is the large and widely known fast food chain, McDonalds selling food, but it is also cashing in via a clothing line as well, this means that it can attract more then just fast food fans or addicts. It also shows the lengths some people will go to in order to follow the latest trends, and spend $56 on a t-shirt quoting a McDonalds line.
The website post also states the other trend in America right now, not that it's a brand, but the size-0 craze, which is also catered to with trends and brand jeans in the form of skinny jeans as well as other fashion trends seen on the catwalk, these type of images and body ideals are not good for young and influential young girls as well as boys.
However the poster does go on to say how she also disagrees with the new trend of McDonalds slogan t-shirts, "I just wonder how many of the twiglets buying these up in the teeny sizes actually appreciate the irony of advertising the worst kind of junk food? I'm with Papierblog on this one. It's all a bit too much for me!"
Another thing is if celebrities really were wearing these t-shirts, not only would they be promoting yet another trend, but advertising to their young fans greasy, fast food that is not healthy.
This web page really shoes the lengths some people will go to as a consumer of brand names in America. It shows that not only is the large and widely known fast food chain, McDonalds selling food, but it is also cashing in via a clothing line as well, this means that it can attract more then just fast food fans or addicts. It also shows the lengths some people will go to in order to follow the latest trends, and spend $56 on a t-shirt quoting a McDonalds line.
The website post also states the other trend in America right now, not that it's a brand, but the size-0 craze, which is also catered to with trends and brand jeans in the form of skinny jeans as well as other fashion trends seen on the catwalk, these type of images and body ideals are not good for young and influential young girls as well as boys.
However the poster does go on to say how she also disagrees with the new trend of McDonalds slogan t-shirts, "I just wonder how many of the twiglets buying these up in the teeny sizes actually appreciate the irony of advertising the worst kind of junk food? I'm with Papierblog on this one. It's all a bit too much for me!"
Another thing is if celebrities really were wearing these t-shirts, not only would they be promoting yet another trend, but advertising to their young fans greasy, fast food that is not healthy.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Crash review post on Tim's behalf
Film Review “Crash” – Paul Haggis
This review provides insight into the film, starting with an anecdote clearly intended for people who have seen the film “Crash” produced by a different director, as I have not it does not make much sense! But nevertheless the review provides a strong idea of what to expect from the film and is very positive about it.
http://www.futuremovies.co.uk/review.asp?ID=373
This review provides insight into the film, starting with an anecdote clearly intended for people who have seen the film “Crash” produced by a different director, as I have not it does not make much sense! But nevertheless the review provides a strong idea of what to expect from the film and is very positive about it.
http://www.futuremovies.co.uk/review.asp?ID=373
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Crash Review
http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2005/08/01/crash_2005_review.shtml
Reviewd by Andrew Jacobs, he says that the movie tackles racism, class and looking beyond appearances, it's anything but worthy or dull. Following several lives as they, yes, crash together during one day in LA, it's fuelled by powerhouse performances from an outstanding cast. Sandra Bullock is startling as a bitchy housewife, Don Cheadle brings beaten-down grace to the role of a weary detective and, as a racist cop, Matt Dillon's steely presence holds everything together.
He commented that the film was powerful, daring and deserves everyones attention
Reviewd by Andrew Jacobs, he says that the movie tackles racism, class and looking beyond appearances, it's anything but worthy or dull. Following several lives as they, yes, crash together during one day in LA, it's fuelled by powerhouse performances from an outstanding cast. Sandra Bullock is startling as a bitchy housewife, Don Cheadle brings beaten-down grace to the role of a weary detective and, as a racist cop, Matt Dillon's steely presence holds everything together.
He commented that the film was powerful, daring and deserves everyones attention
Feminism
Ellen DeGeneres has been listed as one of the most influental gay women of America.
Before finding success as an interviewer, Ellen starred in two TV sitcoms 'The Ellen Show' and 'Ellen'.
She has hosted the Oscars and Emmys, while 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' has won 15 Emmy Awards.
Ellen, who is dating former 'Ally McBeal' star Portia de Rossi, publicly 'came out' as a lesbian in 1997 in an appearance on the 'Oprah Winfrey Show' and has always been outspoken about her sexuality.
The 50-year-old star recently took a break from the comedy side of her series to give a tearful tribute to 15-year-old Lawrence King, who was shot and killed because he was gay.
"If any young kids are reading this - gay or not, those that are different, those that aren't stick-thin, those that aren't conventionally 'beautiful'. To them, we say - be yourselves! Be yourself and be brilliant! You can be successful just as you are."
Before finding success as an interviewer, Ellen starred in two TV sitcoms 'The Ellen Show' and 'Ellen'.
She has hosted the Oscars and Emmys, while 'The Ellen DeGeneres Show' has won 15 Emmy Awards.
Ellen, who is dating former 'Ally McBeal' star Portia de Rossi, publicly 'came out' as a lesbian in 1997 in an appearance on the 'Oprah Winfrey Show' and has always been outspoken about her sexuality.
The 50-year-old star recently took a break from the comedy side of her series to give a tearful tribute to 15-year-old Lawrence King, who was shot and killed because he was gay.
"If any young kids are reading this - gay or not, those that are different, those that aren't stick-thin, those that aren't conventionally 'beautiful'. To them, we say - be yourselves! Be yourself and be brilliant! You can be successful just as you are."
Week 6- Review on Broke back Mountain
http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2005/12/16/brokeback_mountain_2005_review.shtml
Brokeback Mountain is an adaptation of a piece of writing from 1997 by Annie Proulx, which is the tale of two itinerant ranch-hands in the early 1960s, Ennis and Jack, who get a summer's work shepherding on Brokeback Mountain in Wyoming.
The Movie, broke back mountain portrays a true love story between a ranch hand and a rodeo cow boy. because their sexuality would have got them killed back in Wyoming, they kept their feelings for each other a secret. They go on to live miserable lives, married with children, yearning to experience the happy moment they encountered together. It portrays a true love story, in such a dangerous situation, where their love for one another would have been looked down on.
It is a glorious, revelatory experience, and safe from society's disapproval on that remote Arcadian spot they are at one with their own natures and with nature itself. And for the rest of their lives, unhappily married with children, meeting every few years as notional buddies for furtive "fishing trips", they yearn to recapture that brief shining moment of happiness and truth."
Brokeback Mountain is an adaptation of a piece of writing from 1997 by Annie Proulx, which is the tale of two itinerant ranch-hands in the early 1960s, Ennis and Jack, who get a summer's work shepherding on Brokeback Mountain in Wyoming.
The Movie, broke back mountain portrays a true love story between a ranch hand and a rodeo cow boy. because their sexuality would have got them killed back in Wyoming, they kept their feelings for each other a secret. They go on to live miserable lives, married with children, yearning to experience the happy moment they encountered together. It portrays a true love story, in such a dangerous situation, where their love for one another would have been looked down on.
It is a glorious, revelatory experience, and safe from society's disapproval on that remote Arcadian spot they are at one with their own natures and with nature itself. And for the rest of their lives, unhappily married with children, meeting every few years as notional buddies for furtive "fishing trips", they yearn to recapture that brief shining moment of happiness and truth."
Growing Latino Population
http://www.unh.edu/news/cj_nr/2008/jan/bp23latino.cfm
This website outlines the main problems and issues concerning the growth of the latino Population. It has been estimated that Seven states in the South and Southwest have at least 100,000 non-metro Latinos, accounting for 57 percent of the nation's non-metro Latino population: Texas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, and California.
It has also been found that Compared to non-Hispanic whites and blacks, non-metro Latinos are proportionately younger (three in ten are under age 15), gave birth at higher rates (9.2 percent for Latinas compared to 5.5 percent for whites and 6.3 percent for blacks), and have lower levels of education. Latinos are also living in poverty, with an average family income of below $25,000. Latino women, a long with black women of America face job uncertainties, making life difficult for them.
The growth of the Latino population could cause problems in America, as many states may become over populated. Latino's make up a third of the population of America, making it a more diverse country, but many people feel that the hispanic race is flooding their country.
"The Latino population needs to be seen as a valuable resource for this country. U.S. institutions will increasingly be affected by and dependent on Latinos in the coming decades. For example, the business community will increasingly rely on Latinos as entrepreneurs, employees, investors, and consumers. The bilingual and bicultural nature of the Latino population also makes Latinos a valuable resource as the U.S. business community expands its consumer markets and business operations into Latin America."
This website outlines the main problems and issues concerning the growth of the latino Population. It has been estimated that Seven states in the South and Southwest have at least 100,000 non-metro Latinos, accounting for 57 percent of the nation's non-metro Latino population: Texas, New Mexico, North Carolina, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, and California.
It has also been found that Compared to non-Hispanic whites and blacks, non-metro Latinos are proportionately younger (three in ten are under age 15), gave birth at higher rates (9.2 percent for Latinas compared to 5.5 percent for whites and 6.3 percent for blacks), and have lower levels of education. Latinos are also living in poverty, with an average family income of below $25,000. Latino women, a long with black women of America face job uncertainties, making life difficult for them.
The growth of the Latino population could cause problems in America, as many states may become over populated. Latino's make up a third of the population of America, making it a more diverse country, but many people feel that the hispanic race is flooding their country.
"The Latino population needs to be seen as a valuable resource for this country. U.S. institutions will increasingly be affected by and dependent on Latinos in the coming decades. For example, the business community will increasingly rely on Latinos as entrepreneurs, employees, investors, and consumers. The bilingual and bicultural nature of the Latino population also makes Latinos a valuable resource as the U.S. business community expands its consumer markets and business operations into Latin America."
First person immigrant narrative
http://www.ilw.com/life/diary/Home.shtm
" What about the infants and children who are brought to the country by their parents. They did not come here on their own free will but of the will of their parents? I did not ask to come to this country -- my parents brought me here when I was less than two years old. I have never visited my birth country nor do I have any recollection of ever living there. Now I find out that the U.S., the place I consider home, doesn't consider me to be a citizen even though I attended local public schools, have worked since the age of 15, have always paid taxes, have a valid drivers license, established credit, bought two houses, and, yes, was even issued a voter's registration card and have been called for jury duty on a number of occasions. If I don't have a right to live here, where do I belong? "
This is a very personal account of a young adult, who was forced by his parents to immigrate to America. It sheds a negative light on America and it's issues with Immigration, as he faces alot of discrimination and racism. He doesn't feel like a citizen of America, even though he has been there for most his life, and has faced a series of problems to prove that he is infact an American citizen, since the age of two.
"On the other hand, I am treated and paid very well for my knowledge and skills because my employer considers me to be a U.S. citizen. This is a serious form of discrimination. You can be assured that I will compare future salary offers with salary offers in the past. Will there be a difference in salary offers as a result of my new immigration status being made public? I hope not, but I am a realist and expect that there will be a difference. "
" What about the infants and children who are brought to the country by their parents. They did not come here on their own free will but of the will of their parents? I did not ask to come to this country -- my parents brought me here when I was less than two years old. I have never visited my birth country nor do I have any recollection of ever living there. Now I find out that the U.S., the place I consider home, doesn't consider me to be a citizen even though I attended local public schools, have worked since the age of 15, have always paid taxes, have a valid drivers license, established credit, bought two houses, and, yes, was even issued a voter's registration card and have been called for jury duty on a number of occasions. If I don't have a right to live here, where do I belong? "
This is a very personal account of a young adult, who was forced by his parents to immigrate to America. It sheds a negative light on America and it's issues with Immigration, as he faces alot of discrimination and racism. He doesn't feel like a citizen of America, even though he has been there for most his life, and has faced a series of problems to prove that he is infact an American citizen, since the age of two.
"On the other hand, I am treated and paid very well for my knowledge and skills because my employer considers me to be a U.S. citizen. This is a serious form of discrimination. You can be assured that I will compare future salary offers with salary offers in the past. Will there be a difference in salary offers as a result of my new immigration status being made public? I hope not, but I am a realist and expect that there will be a difference. "
Controversial issues facing the West today
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/environment/la-me-snowpack2-2008may02,0,3971476.story
California communities face a strong possibility of water shortages and even mandatory rationing this summer because of record dry weather in March and April, a fast-shrinking snowpack and below-normal reservoir levels, state officials said Thursday.The bleak news, contained in California's final Sierra snowpack report of the snow season, means a second consecutive year of water anxieties in a state heavily dependent on water from the melting snow in the Sierra Nevada.
Looking at the comments on this page, many people have blamed Immigrants on the shortage of water, as the population is growing, the water decreases. Residents are told to restrict their water usage, while at the same time the politicians are granting more and more building permits for apartments and huge housing tracts.
The water crisis in California has led to strict usage of water. Residents are asked to be careful with water, such as; "Turn off water when brushing teeth until you need it. Make sure you don't have any leaks in faucets/toilets/showers. Don't leave water running needlessly. To 'rinse' dishes before they go into what should be a FULL dishwasher, use a LITTLE water, put on dishes, scrub only to loosen, then put in to dishwasher and wash right away. Teach your children about water-consciousness and waste, so they'll have a respect for it.
With the threats of global warming, and warmer summers, the water problems in California face serious water situations in the future.
California communities face a strong possibility of water shortages and even mandatory rationing this summer because of record dry weather in March and April, a fast-shrinking snowpack and below-normal reservoir levels, state officials said Thursday.The bleak news, contained in California's final Sierra snowpack report of the snow season, means a second consecutive year of water anxieties in a state heavily dependent on water from the melting snow in the Sierra Nevada.
Looking at the comments on this page, many people have blamed Immigrants on the shortage of water, as the population is growing, the water decreases. Residents are told to restrict their water usage, while at the same time the politicians are granting more and more building permits for apartments and huge housing tracts.
The water crisis in California has led to strict usage of water. Residents are asked to be careful with water, such as; "Turn off water when brushing teeth until you need it. Make sure you don't have any leaks in faucets/toilets/showers. Don't leave water running needlessly. To 'rinse' dishes before they go into what should be a FULL dishwasher, use a LITTLE water, put on dishes, scrub only to loosen, then put in to dishwasher and wash right away. Teach your children about water-consciousness and waste, so they'll have a respect for it.
With the threats of global warming, and warmer summers, the water problems in California face serious water situations in the future.
Crash Review for the BBC by Andy Jacobs:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2005/08/01/crash_2005_review.shtml
Andy Jacobs believes that “Crash” is worthy of our time and something that people should view; it is one of the best films of 2005.
However he doesn’t believe it’s the best thing in the world, and calls the ending, “overwrought”, which I have to agree on, it does seem to go on a bit, the finally which is accompanied by a hit song like in the rest of the movies “self-important score”.
Andy Jacobs does also mention the important topics in which the film address, “racism, class and looking beyond appearances.”
“Why middle-class whites are afraid of working-class blacks, why being racist doesn’t necessarily mean inhuman, and how politics confuses the truth.”
He does also mention other critiques dislike of the film, and how they are not so keen on “its deliberately constructed modern parable.” This however makes it more relatable to an audience and there will always be people who do and don’t like any movie that comes out.
Andy Jacobs believes that “Crash” is worthy of our time and something that people should view; it is one of the best films of 2005.
However he doesn’t believe it’s the best thing in the world, and calls the ending, “overwrought”, which I have to agree on, it does seem to go on a bit, the finally which is accompanied by a hit song like in the rest of the movies “self-important score”.
Andy Jacobs does also mention the important topics in which the film address, “racism, class and looking beyond appearances.”
“Why middle-class whites are afraid of working-class blacks, why being racist doesn’t necessarily mean inhuman, and how politics confuses the truth.”
He does also mention other critiques dislike of the film, and how they are not so keen on “its deliberately constructed modern parable.” This however makes it more relatable to an audience and there will always be people who do and don’t like any movie that comes out.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Angelina Jolie
http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/news/opendoc.htm?tbl=NEWS&id=434e17b84
I believe one of the most powerful and influential women in America today is Angelina Jolie, who is best known for her acting career, however has taken a vital stand in political affairs following her humanitarian work in various developing world countries. Angelina Jolie has been involved in, including many different projects across the world visiting refugee camps across Africa, Afghanistan and many other countries across the world.
“Ms. Jolie, who has travelled extensively to more than 20 countries including Pakistan, Kosovo, Sudan and Chad to talk personally to refugees, said they deserved "every bit of our efforts."
Jolie has been acknowledged for her contribution to helping the underprivileged people in poorer countries in comparison to the United States by the UN who awarded her with the “2005 Global Humanitarian Action Award for her work with UNHCR and with refugees.” Despite her hard work three years ago she continues to work with these countries today and participates in many charitable organisations today, influencing her husband Brad Pitt to also participate in more recent televised charitable causes such as “Idol Gives Back” which promotes the suffering and injustice of people in Africa and in poorer parts of America too, calling for wealthy Americans to donate money on America’s most viewed prime time programme of American Idol. Brad Pitt has appeared twice on this annual run contest show where they have held a special feature for this show.
Jolie and Pitt also have been an aspiration to people across America and the world too as they have adopted most of their children Maddox, Pax, and Zahara, who come from different developing world countries. Their actions in adopting these children has consequently influenced other people to do the same thing such as Madonna who is currently trying to adopt Malawian born David Banda.
I think Jolie is quite an overlooked important person to the world today, as the media are more interested in less trivial things that Jolie does such as being spotted shopping, rather than what she does in these developing countries. I’m unsure whether the media doesn’t celebrate her efforts for equality to other nations because she is a woman and an actress doing something out of character. But the media certainly takes more pictures and publish stories in her personal life than focus on her important work in global affairs. Regardless I believe that she is a positive role model for females to aspire to because in or out of the limelight she is doing something that is truly remarkable and is certainly making a difference to the countries she works in, bringing media attention (if sparse) to those countries and a constant awareness that there is inequality and injustice in the world.
I believe one of the most powerful and influential women in America today is Angelina Jolie, who is best known for her acting career, however has taken a vital stand in political affairs following her humanitarian work in various developing world countries. Angelina Jolie has been involved in, including many different projects across the world visiting refugee camps across Africa, Afghanistan and many other countries across the world.
“Ms. Jolie, who has travelled extensively to more than 20 countries including Pakistan, Kosovo, Sudan and Chad to talk personally to refugees, said they deserved "every bit of our efforts."
Jolie has been acknowledged for her contribution to helping the underprivileged people in poorer countries in comparison to the United States by the UN who awarded her with the “2005 Global Humanitarian Action Award for her work with UNHCR and with refugees.” Despite her hard work three years ago she continues to work with these countries today and participates in many charitable organisations today, influencing her husband Brad Pitt to also participate in more recent televised charitable causes such as “Idol Gives Back” which promotes the suffering and injustice of people in Africa and in poorer parts of America too, calling for wealthy Americans to donate money on America’s most viewed prime time programme of American Idol. Brad Pitt has appeared twice on this annual run contest show where they have held a special feature for this show.
Jolie and Pitt also have been an aspiration to people across America and the world too as they have adopted most of their children Maddox, Pax, and Zahara, who come from different developing world countries. Their actions in adopting these children has consequently influenced other people to do the same thing such as Madonna who is currently trying to adopt Malawian born David Banda.
I think Jolie is quite an overlooked important person to the world today, as the media are more interested in less trivial things that Jolie does such as being spotted shopping, rather than what she does in these developing countries. I’m unsure whether the media doesn’t celebrate her efforts for equality to other nations because she is a woman and an actress doing something out of character. But the media certainly takes more pictures and publish stories in her personal life than focus on her important work in global affairs. Regardless I believe that she is a positive role model for females to aspire to because in or out of the limelight she is doing something that is truly remarkable and is certainly making a difference to the countries she works in, bringing media attention (if sparse) to those countries and a constant awareness that there is inequality and injustice in the world.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Feminism: An outlook on Courtney Love
http://breadandcircusnetwork.wordpress.com/2007/04/21/love-her-or-hate-her/
To use Courtney Love as a figure of Feminism creates controversy in itself. Many see her as just a 'gold digger', who used the name of her late husband to gain her more fame, money and respect. She achieved none of these things, especially when she declared her love for Steve Coogan. But, in her own right she has done a lot for women and how they are perceived. Her song lyrics promote a healthy body image, and an ironic hatred for women who are famous out of notoriety, not talent. Love and her band Hole penned a song entitled Celebrity Skin which includes the lyrics 'It's all so sugarless. Hooker/waitress/model/actress, oh, just go nameless. Honeysuckle, she's full of poison.' which does provide evidence to Love's viewpoint on how women should see themselves, and don't sell themselves short - a very strong feminine viewpoint.
The album Celebrity Skin came out in 1998, four years after the death of Love's husband, Kurt Cobain and contained lyrics which obviously show how hard that hit her. Love says, to this day, that her and Cobain were deeply in love despite the rumours surrounding the couples apparent divorce and even Love's involvement with Cobain's death. Love carried on her career for many years after his death and still made her own money. However, Love states that she deserves some of the royalties for any sales of material from Nirvana, due to her needing to look after the daughter herself and Cobain had, Francis Bean. This made sure her reputation take a nose dive, and many people who supported her for her strong feminist viewpoints deserted her, claiming to dislike how Love still wanted to make money from Nirvana even though she was quite capable of making her own. Even after the band parted, Love had a successful solo career, clouding that of other band member Melissa Auf der Maur. To this day, Love is locked in a battle with Dave Grohl and Krist Novoselic because Love insisted on realising the entire Nirvana back catalogue, Cobain's diaries, Special Edition CDs, Greatest hits etc... This was frowned upon greatly by both Cobain's fans and Love's supporters, portraying her in a very bad light. She is one of the most hated women in rock, yet still one many admire.
In all, an unlikely candidate for 'second wave' feminists but one for sure. The article i found on Love talks about her lyrics, and how they were very different to how many other 90s female artists sang about. Love was a strong female rock star, in a girl band unseen and unheard of in the past, long before anyone knew who the Spice Girls were. She promoted the infamous "Girl Power" slogan throughout her entire working life, even her court cases could be seen as her fighting for what is right for her and her child.
Courtney Love: Love her or hate her, she's still influenced a lot of America more then they'll ever know, or admit too.
To use Courtney Love as a figure of Feminism creates controversy in itself. Many see her as just a 'gold digger', who used the name of her late husband to gain her more fame, money and respect. She achieved none of these things, especially when she declared her love for Steve Coogan. But, in her own right she has done a lot for women and how they are perceived. Her song lyrics promote a healthy body image, and an ironic hatred for women who are famous out of notoriety, not talent. Love and her band Hole penned a song entitled Celebrity Skin which includes the lyrics 'It's all so sugarless. Hooker/waitress/model/actress, oh, just go nameless. Honeysuckle, she's full of poison.' which does provide evidence to Love's viewpoint on how women should see themselves, and don't sell themselves short - a very strong feminine viewpoint.
The album Celebrity Skin came out in 1998, four years after the death of Love's husband, Kurt Cobain and contained lyrics which obviously show how hard that hit her. Love says, to this day, that her and Cobain were deeply in love despite the rumours surrounding the couples apparent divorce and even Love's involvement with Cobain's death. Love carried on her career for many years after his death and still made her own money. However, Love states that she deserves some of the royalties for any sales of material from Nirvana, due to her needing to look after the daughter herself and Cobain had, Francis Bean. This made sure her reputation take a nose dive, and many people who supported her for her strong feminist viewpoints deserted her, claiming to dislike how Love still wanted to make money from Nirvana even though she was quite capable of making her own. Even after the band parted, Love had a successful solo career, clouding that of other band member Melissa Auf der Maur. To this day, Love is locked in a battle with Dave Grohl and Krist Novoselic because Love insisted on realising the entire Nirvana back catalogue, Cobain's diaries, Special Edition CDs, Greatest hits etc... This was frowned upon greatly by both Cobain's fans and Love's supporters, portraying her in a very bad light. She is one of the most hated women in rock, yet still one many admire.
In all, an unlikely candidate for 'second wave' feminists but one for sure. The article i found on Love talks about her lyrics, and how they were very different to how many other 90s female artists sang about. Love was a strong female rock star, in a girl band unseen and unheard of in the past, long before anyone knew who the Spice Girls were. She promoted the infamous "Girl Power" slogan throughout her entire working life, even her court cases could be seen as her fighting for what is right for her and her child.
Courtney Love: Love her or hate her, she's still influenced a lot of America more then they'll ever know, or admit too.
Feminist Week Blog On Oprah Winfrey:
http://www.howard.edu/commencement/2007/orator.htm
Oprah Winfrey is a very powerful lady, who has built herself an empire; she is now one of the richest ladies in the world as well as having good friends in high places. “Her accomplishments as a global media leader and philanthropist have established her as one of the most respected and admired public figures today.”
Oprah has used her celebrity status and the influence of the media to move herself up in the world and make a connection with the public.
Oprah is a great example to women of a woman in power and importance; she shows women of any race that they can make it if they try.
She also has her own charity, which donates money towards the empowerment of women, as well as other charities, such as education, which she feel sis very important and children’s charities.
“During a December 2000 visit with Nelson Mandela, Ms. Winfrey pledged US$10 million to build a school in South Africa. As that commitment broadened, she established The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation, to which she has contributed more than US$40 million toward the creation of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls - South Africa, which opened in January 2007.”
Oprah went from a poor living in rural Mississippi to being the richest African-American, with Emmy awards, academy award nominations and the reputation of being the worlds most influential women.
Oprah shows that feminism is not dead, especially when women like her are around still making themselves known in the world.
This article portrays Oprah as women of business and celerity, but it also portrays her in a good light and is very positive.
Oprah Winfrey is a very powerful lady, who has built herself an empire; she is now one of the richest ladies in the world as well as having good friends in high places. “Her accomplishments as a global media leader and philanthropist have established her as one of the most respected and admired public figures today.”
Oprah has used her celebrity status and the influence of the media to move herself up in the world and make a connection with the public.
Oprah is a great example to women of a woman in power and importance; she shows women of any race that they can make it if they try.
She also has her own charity, which donates money towards the empowerment of women, as well as other charities, such as education, which she feel sis very important and children’s charities.
“During a December 2000 visit with Nelson Mandela, Ms. Winfrey pledged US$10 million to build a school in South Africa. As that commitment broadened, she established The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy Foundation, to which she has contributed more than US$40 million toward the creation of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls - South Africa, which opened in January 2007.”
Oprah went from a poor living in rural Mississippi to being the richest African-American, with Emmy awards, academy award nominations and the reputation of being the worlds most influential women.
Oprah shows that feminism is not dead, especially when women like her are around still making themselves known in the world.
This article portrays Oprah as women of business and celerity, but it also portrays her in a good light and is very positive.
Ellen DeGeneres
http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2007/feb/23/broadcasting.oscars2007
For this Blog entry i decided to ask my American housemate who in her opinion was a good female American figure, she thought for a few minutes and then came back with the reply; Ellen DeGeneres. I had no idea who this person was so googled her and came up with hundreds of pages on this one women. I discovered she is a stand-up comedian turned talk show host, who is a lesbien and also supports many charities. I found this article on the Gaurdian's website about how Ellen was going to host the oscars.
I find this article really interesting because it doesn't seem to be pro or against her. It trys to give the reader the facts. I particularly like the bit where it says; "People feel like they know her," I think this is a very true statement people do feel like they know celebrities, maybe it is because we see so much of them on TV and we feel like they are part of our lives. If we know them then they must know us.
Ellen DeGeneres comes across as someone who knows who she is and is not afraid to be who she is. For one reason she 'came out' about being gay and although the article speaks of how that did knock her slightly in her professional career, she is 'not one to give up'. She continues to fight. I think that this is something which you need if you are going to be in the public eye. You need to be strong and not let things 'knock' you down.
I asked my house mate why she chose Ellen DeGeneres; she told me that as an American she believes Ellen has had a huge effect on womens rights, although shes not publically campaigned shes shown the public that you can be who you are and be a women and stand up for what you believe in and still be adored by the masses. She also said that Ellen makes people laugh, she makes people feel good about themselves.
In this article I believe that Ellen comes across pretty well, her quote from when she hosted the Emmys I think is a good answer back to the terrorist consern of America. I believe that Ellen DeGeneres is a good Female Public figure for America, even her 'faults' are only tied to her perfectionist streak!
For this Blog entry i decided to ask my American housemate who in her opinion was a good female American figure, she thought for a few minutes and then came back with the reply; Ellen DeGeneres. I had no idea who this person was so googled her and came up with hundreds of pages on this one women. I discovered she is a stand-up comedian turned talk show host, who is a lesbien and also supports many charities. I found this article on the Gaurdian's website about how Ellen was going to host the oscars.
I find this article really interesting because it doesn't seem to be pro or against her. It trys to give the reader the facts. I particularly like the bit where it says; "People feel like they know her," I think this is a very true statement people do feel like they know celebrities, maybe it is because we see so much of them on TV and we feel like they are part of our lives. If we know them then they must know us.
Ellen DeGeneres comes across as someone who knows who she is and is not afraid to be who she is. For one reason she 'came out' about being gay and although the article speaks of how that did knock her slightly in her professional career, she is 'not one to give up'. She continues to fight. I think that this is something which you need if you are going to be in the public eye. You need to be strong and not let things 'knock' you down.
I asked my house mate why she chose Ellen DeGeneres; she told me that as an American she believes Ellen has had a huge effect on womens rights, although shes not publically campaigned shes shown the public that you can be who you are and be a women and stand up for what you believe in and still be adored by the masses. She also said that Ellen makes people laugh, she makes people feel good about themselves.
In this article I believe that Ellen comes across pretty well, her quote from when she hosted the Emmys I think is a good answer back to the terrorist consern of America. I believe that Ellen DeGeneres is a good Female Public figure for America, even her 'faults' are only tied to her perfectionist streak!
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