I thought the section of this essay where the boss was also an immigration officer was interesting. It seems almost like a scam for the workers to go into his program. They have to pay that outrageous fee just to get a job! - obviously they do not have the money if they do not have a job already. However it is nice that they can get a free ride home if they stay to the end of their contracts. Having said that - I don't think the conditions are really good, so I am sure that many do not make it to the end. The incident with the flood was hard to believe - the workers are treated more like indentured slaves than employees.
It is disconcerting that such conditions still exist in America... it makes me feel like we have not progressed as far as we like to say we have.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Heading Home
The article "Heading Home: Women, Work, and Identity in America" was one of my favorites of this class. In the article they asked how woman can leave their jobs and become at-home moms without losing social status. I think the answer is that, people half expect women to become at-home mothers after having a child, so by doing so they are not betraying some social standard. Men on the other hand are expected to stay at work, and work, work, work to provide for their families, and if they leave work to become at-home dads then their social status does suffer. It is just a matter of how society perceives gender roles.
In some ways if a woman can leave work to become an at-home-mom then her status could even go up, because it means her husband can earn enough income to support the household solo. It is a simple answer to why women don't lose a social status when they leave work - because culturally we expect them to do so.
In some ways if a woman can leave work to become an at-home-mom then her status could even go up, because it means her husband can earn enough income to support the household solo. It is a simple answer to why women don't lose a social status when they leave work - because culturally we expect them to do so.
The Fire That Consumes Money
It is interesting how much cell phones have become a symbol of economic status in Nigeria, because here everyone has one. It is very rare that you find someone above the age of 13 who does not have a cell phone in America. I like how they call cell phones "the fire that consumes money" because it is so true! Cell phones in Nigeria have both become a "social fire" meaning everyone wants one to have the upper social hand, but also it is a "fire" that is pulling people down by consuming money that could definitely be better spent somewhere else.
This article shows the importance of perceived social status within communities. Although the Nigerian people do not have the money to spend frivolously on cell phones, they do so to project themselves as being part of a higher class system. I think it is important to note that how society views you has important effects on the spending behaviors of individuals and can cause bad spending habits regardless of the consequences.
This article shows the importance of perceived social status within communities. Although the Nigerian people do not have the money to spend frivolously on cell phones, they do so to project themselves as being part of a higher class system. I think it is important to note that how society views you has important effects on the spending behaviors of individuals and can cause bad spending habits regardless of the consequences.
The Kayapo Resistance
I like that the Kayapo is resisting approaching settlers. I have never understood why people think that they can just take away land from Natives Indian tribes like the Kayapo. Just because they have a unique lifestyle, ways of dressing, and religious practices does not mean that outsiders should devalue them and take away land they are using. It has such a traumatic effect on the tribe, because they are not valued by the outsiders so it is hard for them to fight back.
It is unfortunate that the Kayapo face constant pressures of ranchers for their land. We all know if the Kayapo were to start expanding and trying to take ranchers' land that the reaction of the ranchers would probably be devastating and end in a loss of victory for the Kayapo. So why is it when the ranchers try to encroach upon the Kayapo we never think twice about it being wrong? Hopefully the Kayapo's efforts to resist the depletion of the land they readily use will be effective, and maybe people will start to see that you can't just take things from people unless you can pay them for it. Even if ranchers offered the Kayapo money for the land, they would have to understand that the Kayapo have the right to deny fiscal offers - and outsiders should learn to respect those wishes.
This article talks about National Geographic journalist Scott Wallace's journey into the Amazon to photograph tribes like the Kayapo who live completely isolated from the modern world's troubles and technologies. It also gives some more stats about the deforestation of the Amazon.
It is unfortunate that the Kayapo face constant pressures of ranchers for their land. We all know if the Kayapo were to start expanding and trying to take ranchers' land that the reaction of the ranchers would probably be devastating and end in a loss of victory for the Kayapo. So why is it when the ranchers try to encroach upon the Kayapo we never think twice about it being wrong? Hopefully the Kayapo's efforts to resist the depletion of the land they readily use will be effective, and maybe people will start to see that you can't just take things from people unless you can pay them for it. Even if ranchers offered the Kayapo money for the land, they would have to understand that the Kayapo have the right to deny fiscal offers - and outsiders should learn to respect those wishes.
This article talks about National Geographic journalist Scott Wallace's journey into the Amazon to photograph tribes like the Kayapo who live completely isolated from the modern world's troubles and technologies. It also gives some more stats about the deforestation of the Amazon.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Why Tourism Matters
I think tourism is very interesting. I never really thought about the dynamics of tourism, but I have seen first hand the differences between the lives of tourists and the lives of natives. "Why Tourism Matters" reminded me of my trip to the Turks and Caicos when I was 14. I had toured to Alaska before that trip, and I remember feeling like I liked the Alaska trip more because the surroundings seemed so much more friendly and normal. In Turks and Caicos everything outside of the tourist regions was run down and third-world county esk. It was a wonderful trip, but I can see how sometimes tourism does not necessarily help a country any more than it hinders it.
The essay also highlighted that tourism is fun and frivolous, so it is often not studied. I think it is good to study tourism, because it is such a wonderful way to observe how one culture can directly affect another. If two cultures are placed very close to one another unnaturally then an change can be observed whether it is nationalistic or a merging of the two cultures. I think it would be a very interesting thing to study.
The essay also highlighted that tourism is fun and frivolous, so it is often not studied. I think it is good to study tourism, because it is such a wonderful way to observe how one culture can directly affect another. If two cultures are placed very close to one another unnaturally then an change can be observed whether it is nationalistic or a merging of the two cultures. I think it would be a very interesting thing to study.
Just Another Job?
Just another job was really eye opening. I could not believe how distant the parents seemed, because my parents never had a nanny but both had full-time jobs and also did house work. The nanny's/ maids seemed like they were taken advantage of, but I can see how easy it would to keep loading on house work to someone your paying because you don't want to do it.
The kid who took her clothes off and changed five times a day is out of control! - I could not even believe that. I was raised to pick up after myself and was doing my own laundry from the 7th grade on, so I can't imagine using almost a week's worth of clothes in one day. It is odd that the parents are so distant that they don't see their child's bad habits forming. Additionally is is sad that the workers aren't comfortable enough in their work to talk to the employers about problems they see developing. It is as if they are guests in the house even though the recognized more going on than the parents - that is just so odd to me.
The kid who took her clothes off and changed five times a day is out of control! - I could not even believe that. I was raised to pick up after myself and was doing my own laundry from the 7th grade on, so I can't imagine using almost a week's worth of clothes in one day. It is odd that the parents are so distant that they don't see their child's bad habits forming. Additionally is is sad that the workers aren't comfortable enough in their work to talk to the employers about problems they see developing. It is as if they are guests in the house even though the recognized more going on than the parents - that is just so odd to me.
White Privlege
The article White Privilege was right in some aspects and wrong in others. Being a race other than Caucasian can bring difficulties, but some of her examples were outdated or incorrect.
If an institution uses affirmative action they most likely also use a male to female ratio during admissions. Most colleges have to admit a certain percentage of men, women, and different races other than white.
It is easier to go out to a drug store and buy a magazine that feature white famous stars, but if you go to the makeup aisle there is blemish cover for all races and they sell band aids in all colors too, including transparent to match any skin color. Also, the TV has tone of different races on a wide spread range of channels.
If you need legal or medical help - race is not what is going to help or hinder you. That is a fiscal matter. If you need help in our world, you have to have money to back up your requests no matter what race you are.
Overall I thought that this article was a little pompous and she read way too much into the "power" she had over people of a different race. One thing I liked is that she noted that racism can only change if everyone stops being racist, including races other than whites, but cannot happen if just a couple of individuals stop being racist.
If an institution uses affirmative action they most likely also use a male to female ratio during admissions. Most colleges have to admit a certain percentage of men, women, and different races other than white.
It is easier to go out to a drug store and buy a magazine that feature white famous stars, but if you go to the makeup aisle there is blemish cover for all races and they sell band aids in all colors too, including transparent to match any skin color. Also, the TV has tone of different races on a wide spread range of channels.
If you need legal or medical help - race is not what is going to help or hinder you. That is a fiscal matter. If you need help in our world, you have to have money to back up your requests no matter what race you are.
Overall I thought that this article was a little pompous and she read way too much into the "power" she had over people of a different race. One thing I liked is that she noted that racism can only change if everyone stops being racist, including races other than whites, but cannot happen if just a couple of individuals stop being racist.
An Official Stament On "Race"
“Biophysical diversity has no inherent social meaning except
what we humans confer upon it” is a great quote from the reading “Official
Statement on ‘Race’” because it highlights that race means nothing but what
people have decided to make it mean.
We are all guilty of falling to stereotyping others, but it
is wrong. Race does not make someone
smart, polite, or less likely to commit crimes. However, society says it does
and people actually believe that race determines personality and actions. It is
unfortunate that this may never change, but the article did a great job of
being unbiased while portraying why society’s view on race is wrong and conditioned
from a political history.
This link goes to a really cool website that explains race through three lenses. 1- the history of race, 2- human variations, and 3- lived experiences. The intro is very cool it asks if we are more than race, our skin, our art, etc. and then leads into the website which you can look at blogs, genetics, sports, and other things that people correlate with race.
Here it is: RACE - Are We So Different?
This link goes to a really cool website that explains race through three lenses. 1- the history of race, 2- human variations, and 3- lived experiences. The intro is very cool it asks if we are more than race, our skin, our art, etc. and then leads into the website which you can look at blogs, genetics, sports, and other things that people correlate with race.
Here it is: RACE - Are We So Different?
Letters From The Other Side
"Letters from the Other Side" was a documentary that really pulled on the heart-strings. It made me feel like Mexico is a universe away from the United States, and separated by more than just political boundaries. The men moving away from their families seem to all have noble intentions, but when they reach America it seems like they all got side tracked and pulled into an alternative life they were able to find in the USA while they forget and leave their families to struggle back in Mexico.
The grass-route movement happening in Mexico was heart wrenching to watch. Mexico's women are trying to do everything they are educationally, physically, and fiscally able to do to help their families and stop the emigration of Mexican boys and men. It was inspiring to see how much the women were willing to risk just to keep their
families in one piece. It was equally inspiring to hear that the women were learning how to be independent and not rely on the men as much for support.
I think that historically Mexico has had a very hard past that they are trying to overcome, and I think that the women are at the breaking point. They realize things cannot go on as they are, and they are fighting for the change they need to survive. It is a string of inspiring stories that raises my hopes that Mexico may be able to better their government and economy so that Mexican families can stop having to rely on another country before they rely on their own.
The grass-route movement happening in Mexico was heart wrenching to watch. Mexico's women are trying to do everything they are educationally, physically, and fiscally able to do to help their families and stop the emigration of Mexican boys and men. It was inspiring to see how much the women were willing to risk just to keep their
families in one piece. It was equally inspiring to hear that the women were learning how to be independent and not rely on the men as much for support.
I think that historically Mexico has had a very hard past that they are trying to overcome, and I think that the women are at the breaking point. They realize things cannot go on as they are, and they are fighting for the change they need to survive. It is a string of inspiring stories that raises my hopes that Mexico may be able to better their government and economy so that Mexican families can stop having to rely on another country before they rely on their own.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
My Ethnography Presentation!!! - Enjoy =]
Here is my Prezi Presentation all about USC Student Fitness!
Monday, January 30, 2012
Sexuality is Spiritual not Chosen
Learning about the berdache tradition among many Native american tribes was interesting and comforting! I love learning about new cultures and finding out that things aren't just "Western" ideologies.
This article was comforting to me, because I share the view that homosexuals have a place in every society and that they are not abnormal. It frustrates me when hardcore religious people discriminate against homosexuals, saying that they are sinning and going against God's will, but then say that God loves everyone. I think it is extremely hypocritical for christians to judge people that they are supposed to love.
I like that the article highlights that the boys, or in some cases girls, are not forced to become a Berache, and that they don't choose it for themselves, but that during the ceremonies they know it is time to let everyone know that they are different from normal males.
Another thing I liked about the Native American view on Berdaches was that it was a spiritual aspect that made them different not a personal choice. In America it is mostly thought that being homosexual goes against spirituality, and I know for a fact that that idea is wrong. I have someone very close to me who is gay, and he still considers himself to be very close to God - not a sinner of choice in constant need of forgiveness.
I am happy that in some areas of the world homosexuality is embraced and integrated into culture and society. I think it is interesting that the Berdache are not considered males, and I do not quite agree with that concept, but overall I liked this article and the differentiating societal regards to sexuality it revealed.
This article was comforting to me, because I share the view that homosexuals have a place in every society and that they are not abnormal. It frustrates me when hardcore religious people discriminate against homosexuals, saying that they are sinning and going against God's will, but then say that God loves everyone. I think it is extremely hypocritical for christians to judge people that they are supposed to love.
I like that the article highlights that the boys, or in some cases girls, are not forced to become a Berache, and that they don't choose it for themselves, but that during the ceremonies they know it is time to let everyone know that they are different from normal males.
Another thing I liked about the Native American view on Berdaches was that it was a spiritual aspect that made them different not a personal choice. In America it is mostly thought that being homosexual goes against spirituality, and I know for a fact that that idea is wrong. I have someone very close to me who is gay, and he still considers himself to be very close to God - not a sinner of choice in constant need of forgiveness.
I am happy that in some areas of the world homosexuality is embraced and integrated into culture and society. I think it is interesting that the Berdache are not considered males, and I do not quite agree with that concept, but overall I liked this article and the differentiating societal regards to sexuality it revealed.
Unnatural Causes; Inequailty in Healthcare
I think the argument in the documentary "Unnatural Causes" made a lot of sense. To me the amount of money you have increases the likelihood that you have better health, healthcare, and more access to health lifestyle choices which are often more expensive.
McDonalds, or any fast food chain like it, is a great example. They make dollar menus that are easily accessible to lower income neighborhoods, but are unhealthy. In contrast nicer neighbor hoods have grocery stores like Earth Fare which are more expensive and sell organic healthy food.
So you already have food choice differences between the lower and upper neighborhoods, but then you have to take into account that it is more likely for wealthier families to have and be able to afford healthcare! Which they will most likely not have to use as much because they already eat better and have access to better doctors.
It causes a vicious cycle; knowing you can't afford to eat or feed your family healthy food creates stress. On top of that stress is created by knowing that if you get sick you may not be able to pay for it. Just the stress those two factors alone cause can create health problems which sends you back to the beginning of the cycle of needing better food and better healthcare, etc. etc.. only you are stuck at that point and so your health worsens and you die before someone else your age who is wealthier.
It is a serious problem, and is why America need a healthcare system that is easily and fairly available to everyone.
McDonalds, or any fast food chain like it, is a great example. They make dollar menus that are easily accessible to lower income neighborhoods, but are unhealthy. In contrast nicer neighbor hoods have grocery stores like Earth Fare which are more expensive and sell organic healthy food.
So you already have food choice differences between the lower and upper neighborhoods, but then you have to take into account that it is more likely for wealthier families to have and be able to afford healthcare! Which they will most likely not have to use as much because they already eat better and have access to better doctors.
It causes a vicious cycle; knowing you can't afford to eat or feed your family healthy food creates stress. On top of that stress is created by knowing that if you get sick you may not be able to pay for it. Just the stress those two factors alone cause can create health problems which sends you back to the beginning of the cycle of needing better food and better healthcare, etc. etc.. only you are stuck at that point and so your health worsens and you die before someone else your age who is wealthier.
It is a serious problem, and is why America need a healthcare system that is easily and fairly available to everyone.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Covered Girls
I was in fourth grade when the 9/11 attacks occurred, and looking back I remember everyone saying how close it brought the American people. Unfortunately watching this video made me realize that even in times of dire struggle and heartache, sadly our society always singles out some aspect of a minority group and discriminates against them.
I found it appalling that people would spit on young Muslim girls who obviously have no ties to the attacks or the terrorist group behind them. It is called a terrorist group for a reason, because it does not represent the population of people from which it derived.
It is a pet peeve of mine when people play into stereotypes, but I find myself especially sensitive to people regarding to Muslims as terrorists. I do not know exactly why that is, but my reaction to the film was disappointment towards the American people inappropriately taking their anger about the 9/11 attacks out on American Muslims. Although I do not remember much of the press coverage from the time, I am sure that the media did not help cast the Muslim population as a whole in good lighting - as they still continue today to use slander towards the religion today.
The Islamic religion is meant to be peaceful, and it is sad that the media focuses so much on a group of people who are so terribly misrepresenting the mass majority of followers. I am happy that the girls in the film are able to positively express themselves and refute all the negative connotations correlated with hijabs and Muslim society.
The following website is not exactly what I would call legit, but it is a faith forum that takes exurbs out of the Qur'an to show that the Islamic religion is not commanded to hate all other religions - including Christianity. I think that many people fall prey to our media and full-heartedly believe that Muslims hate Christians. To those people I say - you need to do some research and learn to discern between what is really the truth and what is just a good story in the news.
Here it is: Do Muslims Hate Christians?
I found it appalling that people would spit on young Muslim girls who obviously have no ties to the attacks or the terrorist group behind them. It is called a terrorist group for a reason, because it does not represent the population of people from which it derived.
It is a pet peeve of mine when people play into stereotypes, but I find myself especially sensitive to people regarding to Muslims as terrorists. I do not know exactly why that is, but my reaction to the film was disappointment towards the American people inappropriately taking their anger about the 9/11 attacks out on American Muslims. Although I do not remember much of the press coverage from the time, I am sure that the media did not help cast the Muslim population as a whole in good lighting - as they still continue today to use slander towards the religion today.
The Islamic religion is meant to be peaceful, and it is sad that the media focuses so much on a group of people who are so terribly misrepresenting the mass majority of followers. I am happy that the girls in the film are able to positively express themselves and refute all the negative connotations correlated with hijabs and Muslim society.
The following website is not exactly what I would call legit, but it is a faith forum that takes exurbs out of the Qur'an to show that the Islamic religion is not commanded to hate all other religions - including Christianity. I think that many people fall prey to our media and full-heartedly believe that Muslims hate Christians. To those people I say - you need to do some research and learn to discern between what is really the truth and what is just a good story in the news.
Here it is: Do Muslims Hate Christians?
Do Muslim Women Really Need Saving? - No.
"Do Women Really Need Saving?" by Lila Abu-Lughod made valid points about Muslim women, or any religion's women followers, and their decision to wear head garments called by many different names. I think it is important to note that these women do not feel oppressed and like Abu-Lughod said - we should not be surprised that they do not throw their head dresses to the ground in great thanks to the "liberation" that America thinks we have created for them.
I do not particulariy agree with the first half of this article and how the author seemed to put the American society down, making us all seem egocentric and culturally bound. To me it seems like she threw one culture under the bus in her efforts to raise understnding and support of another. However, I do agree with her idea that women in Wastern cultures wear their head dressings out of respect for their religion.
The way I can personally relate to this idea the most is by comparing these women to nuns. A nun pledges her life to God, and while Muslim women do not make an oath of celibacy, they do, like nuns, choose to dress in ways that are intentionally more modest and religiousy focused. I feel like if anything, this would help them in their religous experience - not hinder them or make them opressed.
Overall when comparing the majority of Muslim women to Western society you have to give them props for chosing to be modest and holy in their everyday life, demonstrating their love and dedicaton in the most outwardsly way possible, instead of chosing to dress in bikinis, booty shorts, or tightly fitting clothes to accentuate their bodies. They are not opressed and do not need saving - they just choose different life paths than Western societies have chosen, and as an effect their cuture is different and more accepting of their dress manorisms.
I do not particulariy agree with the first half of this article and how the author seemed to put the American society down, making us all seem egocentric and culturally bound. To me it seems like she threw one culture under the bus in her efforts to raise understnding and support of another. However, I do agree with her idea that women in Wastern cultures wear their head dressings out of respect for their religion.
The way I can personally relate to this idea the most is by comparing these women to nuns. A nun pledges her life to God, and while Muslim women do not make an oath of celibacy, they do, like nuns, choose to dress in ways that are intentionally more modest and religiousy focused. I feel like if anything, this would help them in their religous experience - not hinder them or make them opressed.
Overall when comparing the majority of Muslim women to Western society you have to give them props for chosing to be modest and holy in their everyday life, demonstrating their love and dedicaton in the most outwardsly way possible, instead of chosing to dress in bikinis, booty shorts, or tightly fitting clothes to accentuate their bodies. They are not opressed and do not need saving - they just choose different life paths than Western societies have chosen, and as an effect their cuture is different and more accepting of their dress manorisms.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Juicing Snags Customers and Money
"Kinds of Talk: Juicing Clients in Tattoo World" was both a very interesting piece and very helpful ethnography, because it gave the perfect formula to look back to when writing my ethnography paper.
Personally, tattoo parlors scare me! However, the artists in this ethnography were so friendly that I am almost tempted to go see if the local tattoo hubs in five points demonstrate the same "welcome home" feeling.
I can understand the "juicing" concept completely and think it is a needed in the atmosphere of places like tattoo parlors, piercing shops, etc.. There is a certain fear you have to overcome when you decide to get a tattoo or any other bodily art, because it involves hurting yourself in order to express yourself. Juicing is the perfect way for tattoo artists to get you over your fears and coming back for more which is vital, because it ensures a steady flow of income.
Overall I think that the tattoo artists have adapted to their work in a way that allows them to make customers feel at ease, feel out what tattoo style a customer really wants, and charge the most possible for the tattoo given in order to support the business. Tattooing is an art form, and being a tattoo artists allows you to make anyone your canvas as long as you have all the skill you need both artistically and socially.
Personally, tattoo parlors scare me! However, the artists in this ethnography were so friendly that I am almost tempted to go see if the local tattoo hubs in five points demonstrate the same "welcome home" feeling.
I can understand the "juicing" concept completely and think it is a needed in the atmosphere of places like tattoo parlors, piercing shops, etc.. There is a certain fear you have to overcome when you decide to get a tattoo or any other bodily art, because it involves hurting yourself in order to express yourself. Juicing is the perfect way for tattoo artists to get you over your fears and coming back for more which is vital, because it ensures a steady flow of income.
Overall I think that the tattoo artists have adapted to their work in a way that allows them to make customers feel at ease, feel out what tattoo style a customer really wants, and charge the most possible for the tattoo given in order to support the business. Tattooing is an art form, and being a tattoo artists allows you to make anyone your canvas as long as you have all the skill you need both artistically and socially.
Russian Prisons and Tattoos
The film, The Mark of Cain, by Alix Lambert took a while to digest. I had mixed feelings about the ethnography. I think what came as the biggest surprise was that I didn't feel sorry for some of the prisoners even though their conditions were terrible. Nevertheless some prisoners pointed out facts that were surprising and obviously flawed with the Russian judicial court.
I think the reason that I did not take pity on some prisoners is because they were murderers. I don't believe in the death penalty, but I also don't think that someone convicted of murder should live comfortably in jail. While the tactics of flooding rooms, starving the inmates, beatings by guards, etc. was extreme and against human rights - I do not feel pity for those who were selfish enough to take another person's life.
While the murders did not rally much sympathy from me, the thief surprisingly did. At one point in the film a prisoner pointed out that someone convicted of theft could very easily serve a longer sentence than someone convicted of murder. I think that this may be a cultural difference between the U.S. and Russia - maybe that is expected or the norm there? However in the U.S., murder is treated as a far worse crime that theft, and I agree with that.
The tattoo aspect of the film was interesting, however I feel like Lambert's purpose was to provide and ethnography on the tattoo hierarchy in a Russian prison but came out with an ethnography of the mistreatment and neglect placed on prisoners with in a Russian prison.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Number Our Days
The film. Number Our Days, was very touching. It made me realize how sad aging could be, because if you are lucky enough to live to an old age then you are also unfortunate enough to suffer through great losses as everything around you changes.
Barbra Myerhoff showed how the elderly have to come together for support, because society abandons them in their slow, old age. It is a harsh reality that Myerhoff revealed, because often times the elderly give up everything to raise their children, yet throughout the whole documentary not a single child was seen. It seemed like not only had society abandoned the elderly, but that their own families had too.
Myerhoff ended the documentary saying, "Aging is not death, but there is a certain peace in death and aging is a part of that." However, I wonder if the participants in the film would agree with her, because it seemed like to them aging was just the highway to death and it was filled with loss, hurt, and a feeling of abandonment. I never saw them look peaceful, as Myerhoff describes. Even at the parties they attended, all of the elderly had a burnt-out look in their eyes. It was like they knew their time was near, and the party was just to fill the gap between being alive and being dead.
I hope that Myerhoff's film opens the eyes of society, or at least those who watch it, to the fact that the elderly are so burnt-out because they spent so much of their life pushing the younger generations to the goals they need to reach. It is a shame that so many of America's elderly are forgotten instead of cherished. They may be slow and "stuck" in another generation, but they don't deserve to be forgotten and surrounded by loss - especially the loss of those who are still living and able to help and love them.
Barbra Myerhoff showed how the elderly have to come together for support, because society abandons them in their slow, old age. It is a harsh reality that Myerhoff revealed, because often times the elderly give up everything to raise their children, yet throughout the whole documentary not a single child was seen. It seemed like not only had society abandoned the elderly, but that their own families had too.
Myerhoff ended the documentary saying, "Aging is not death, but there is a certain peace in death and aging is a part of that." However, I wonder if the participants in the film would agree with her, because it seemed like to them aging was just the highway to death and it was filled with loss, hurt, and a feeling of abandonment. I never saw them look peaceful, as Myerhoff describes. Even at the parties they attended, all of the elderly had a burnt-out look in their eyes. It was like they knew their time was near, and the party was just to fill the gap between being alive and being dead.
I hope that Myerhoff's film opens the eyes of society, or at least those who watch it, to the fact that the elderly are so burnt-out because they spent so much of their life pushing the younger generations to the goals they need to reach. It is a shame that so many of America's elderly are forgotten instead of cherished. They may be slow and "stuck" in another generation, but they don't deserve to be forgotten and surrounded by loss - especially the loss of those who are still living and able to help and love them.
Nacirema and Cultural Perspective
The first time I read about the
Nacirema was when I was 14 years old. I will write about my initial reaction to
the article, because after you are let in on the secret your perspective on the
Nacirema obviously changes.
After finding out that Nacirema is just American spelled backwards, I was shocked to go back and re-read the article. I saw that it was clearly talking about Americans, and described things we did as rituals, instead of giving them the proper names we know the activities by.
I thought it was interesting that after reading the word ritual I automatically put the Nacirema into a stereotype that the tribe had derived from Africa. Really, we all do rituals, but just don't call them by that name instead calling them habits or necessities. The next question my teacher, at the time, brought to attention is; if an outside culture came to America, is what the article described what they would see and think of our culture? - Probably.
Each culture is unique and amazingly intricate and intertwined, so for any one culture to look into another there has to be an understanding that the norm is going to be different. The article highlights that just because a culture has odd rituals does not mean that the society is archaic, but it is simply one to its own. Also, we can never look at another culture and expect to see our own or hold it to our culture's expectations, because no one culture has the same morals or behaviors. The Nacirema can teach everyone that you should never judge a culture by just looking at what they do, but that you should always try to delve into the actions and understand what you are observing.
After finding out that Nacirema is just American spelled backwards, I was shocked to go back and re-read the article. I saw that it was clearly talking about Americans, and described things we did as rituals, instead of giving them the proper names we know the activities by.
I thought it was interesting that after reading the word ritual I automatically put the Nacirema into a stereotype that the tribe had derived from Africa. Really, we all do rituals, but just don't call them by that name instead calling them habits or necessities. The next question my teacher, at the time, brought to attention is; if an outside culture came to America, is what the article described what they would see and think of our culture? - Probably.
Each culture is unique and amazingly intricate and intertwined, so for any one culture to look into another there has to be an understanding that the norm is going to be different. The article highlights that just because a culture has odd rituals does not mean that the society is archaic, but it is simply one to its own. Also, we can never look at another culture and expect to see our own or hold it to our culture's expectations, because no one culture has the same morals or behaviors. The Nacirema can teach everyone that you should never judge a culture by just looking at what they do, but that you should always try to delve into the actions and understand what you are observing.
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