Do We Control Music or......Does Music Control Us?

Have you ever considered how much music you listen to on any given day? It’s a lot isn’t it? I think it’s fair to say that a majority of Americans, particularly this generation, either awake to a clock radio, jam out in their car or keep an IPOD on them at all times. It’s this type of behavior that has made music such an influential aspect of our lives; we can’t escape from it. Instead of using music as a casual expression, teens and college-aged individuals push music to define who they are and what they believe. This wouldn’t be so bad if not for the negative messages that much of popular music contains. As it were, some of today’s most popular lyrics celebrate violence and the degradation of women.

In February of last year, The New York Times published an article titled “Under the Influence of…..Music?” In it, the author states that “Teenagers listen to an average of nearly 2.5 hours of music per day” (Tara Parker-Pope 1). In this particular article, a study is referenced that gauged the amount of influence that music had on adolescents. The author notes “Music is well- known to connect deeply with adolescents and to influence identity development, perhaps more than any other entertainment medium,” said the study authors” (1). Multiple studies have found that music is major aspect in the lives of teenagers and college –aged students. It not only influences behavior but can inflict certain emotion as well. In a journal article written by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, it is stated that “A concern…….. in the development and growth of teenagers is the negative and destructive themes of some kinds of music (rock, heavy metal, hip-hop, etc.), including best-selling albums promoted by major recording companies. The following themes, which are featured prominently in some lyrics, can be particularly troublesome” (Unknown 1). This statement not only acknowledges the abundant influence music has but brings to light the potential harm within negative lyrics.

In recent society, we have grown accustomed to violence as a form of entertainment. People crowd around to watch a UFC fight or stand in line to see a movie where people are mutilated. Our music choice is no different. Artists such as Limp Bizkit, 2Pac and Obie Trice produce songs with verses including “It's just one of those days, Feelin like a freight train, First one to complain Leaves with a blood stain, Damn right I'm a maniac You better watch your back” (Limp Bizkit), “He had tha nerve to say that I had a curfew, Do you know what time it is?, Get out the….. car or I’ll hurt you” (2Pac) and “Put it in a chokehold, spoke as a soldier, Yea he provoke him, to pull up out his holster” (Obie Trice). At some point, we as a society have decided that expressing violent activity is absolutely acceptable if you do it through a song. But music can be just as harmful if it is encouraging people to think or act based on negative lyrics.

Another issue pertaining to song lyrics is the abundant overuse of vulgarity as well as the sexist attitude towards women. Along with violence, we have excused foul language and the humiliation of the female sex. In the article “World Cities and World Beat: Low- Wage Labor and Transitional Culture” music critic Andrew Ross references a “positive alternative to gangster rap’s demonization of women as “ball breakers” and “gold diggers” (Lipsitz 379). His comment is a direct reference to how women are categorized throughout today’s most popular music. In his song “Gold Digger” the popular artist Kanye West criticizes woman while implying they are only after men’s money and use children to get to it. He sings “She take my money, well I'm in need, Yeah she's a triflin' friend indeed, Oh she's a gold digger way over time, that digs on me” (Kanye West). Following this same example, rapper Eminem humiliates women in lyric after lyric by making derogatory and sexual comments about them. In one song in particular he even makes sexually explicit comments about Mariah Carrey.

As the owner of an independent hip-hop label clearly states “…..lyrics about guns and women sell” (Georges Sulmers). And with the overall goal of any record label being money, the artists must sing to please their audience. But what price are we paying when the impact of these particular lyrics is so negative? When the most popular songs pertain to violence and hatred towards women, it is affecting the behavior and attitudes of individuals. What was once considered art, music has turned into an outlet for anger and resentment. What’s more, the only way to truly acknowledge that we will not condone this type of music is to cease buying it. Every time a CD, IPOD download or ringtone is purchased, we are telling the music industry that what they are producing is okay. And not only is okay but we like it! We enjoy humiliating females with derogatory comments and we find violence comical. This is the message we send every time we make a minimal purchase or hit the SEEK button on the stereo. Society must stand up for what is right and attempt to eliminate some negativity from our world.












Work Cited

Miller, Mark Crispen, “Who Controls The Music?”

Parker-Poper, Tara, “Under the Influence of…..Music?” The New York Times (2008): 1-1.

Unknown, “The Influence of Music and Music Videos” American Academy of Child and Adolescents Psychaitry (2009): 1-1.

Blog Reviews/ Best Hits

Monique- First of all, I really like your blog page. It represents who you are through your picture and use of color. Regarding your writing, I think you do a good job of providing voice throughout each of your blogs. You take a stand for what you believe and do a good job of conveying that to the reader. I think you have some editing errors throughout, but your overall writing seems good.
Although I enjoyed reading each of your blogs, “The American Dream” was one of my favorites. I liked how you began by acknowledging that the issue of immigration has been around forever. You did a good job of providing background information and by discussing the racist tension towards immigrants. Your paragraph flowed nicely with your personal opinions as well. Despite a few corrections that need to be made, your overall blog was interesting and conveyed a serious message.
Another blog I enjoyed was “We Need Government Structure”. You brought up some valid and legitimate points regarding how important having a government is. Your blog resembled a lot of my own views and I could really relate to your writing. This blog was full of detail and referenced good material. Good Job!!!!

Victoria- Having read most of your blogs before; I can honestly say you are a great writer. Each of your entries is full of voice and exceptional detail. Your paragraphs flow nicely and I like that you ask questions to keep your reader captivated. I also like the length of your blogs, they inform the reader but do not go on and on.
Your “Money, Money, Money” blog was one of my favorites and I think it would make an interesting final paper. Materialism is a major concept in today’s society and you do a great job of explaining that. I like how you pose the question regarding materialism being accepted just because it brings happiness. Maybe you could focus your final paper on that particular concept.
Another one of your blogs that I found extremely interesting was “We all come from somewhere”. I liked that you were able to talk about your own family heritage. It made it personable as well as interesting. I also think this would make a creative final blog. Finally, I liked your blog about animals being homosexual. It is an interesting concept and you voiced excellent views in your writing. Good Job!!!!

Mary- I loved reading your blogs. Your voice and creativity is reflected well throughout your paper. Each of your entries is detailed and seems to get better and better as the semester continues. The first blog that caught my eye was “TGFG (Thank God For Government)” not only to I completely agree with your blog but your title was great and made me want to read your writing. You posed excellent questions to your reader and it made your blog flow nicely.
Another blog that I loved reading was “Some Shoes”. Your story made me laugh while making an excellent point. You thoroughly grasped the point of that particular assignment and your writing clearly portrayed that. This would also make a great final blog. Good Job!!!!
Finally, I think “No One Wants to be Alone” would also make a great blog to wrap up the semester. Not only it enjoyable to read but it brought up some valid points regarding relationships and love. I think you are a great writer and each of your blogs would be equally good as a final project. Great Job Mary!!!!

Blog Reviews

Victoria- I completely agree with your blog regarding finance. We are constantly spending money and it in a sense has become somewhat a part of our nature. You did a good job of explaining finance and how it is becoming more and more important in everyday society. Moving on to your next blog, I think you brought up a lot of valid points. Deciding whether we should have less government is definite political stance. Also, I agree that there should be laws limiting the type of Cryptography. Good job!!!!

Megan- I enjoyed reading both of your blogs. They were very informative and flowed nicely. You explained valid points in regards to finance and did a good job of explaining the historical aspect of it. I especially liked your response to the discussion of government. You did an excellent job of informing the reader of the issue at hand but also incorporated your own views and I loved your stance on the two party system. Great job!!!!

The New Science of Finance

If randomly asked to define the term finance, my guess is that most of us would simply say “money”. We often associate any type of finances with money either being borrowed or spent. Although part of this is true, “The New Science of Finance” written by Don Chance and Pamela Peterson, explains finance as an actual science. In their article they define finance as “the study of how money is acquired and invested” (447). They continue by saying that although we are just now acknowledging finance as a “recognized academic discipline, it roots go back centuries. From the days when bankers were called money changers, financiers have had to perform tricky computations, borrowing frequently from higher mathematics” (447).


The idea of finance originally emerged as a result of World War II and has since “evolved into a critically important pursuit, as evidenced by the influence it has had on so many people and institutions” (447). Since then finance has experienced social, economic, and technological changes that allowed such practitioners of finance to develop themselves. Being largely associated with risk, finance is combined with scientific characteristics. “With the advances in computers and the development of increasingly powerful statistical techniques, finance has become a truly empirical science, demanding that its various experiments be as objective, accurate and repeatable as those in particle physics or microbiology ” (447). From an economic stand point, “economists studying finance have taken the body of knowledge about how human beings behave when faced with uncertainty and translated into mathematical descriptions of the way people obtain and invest funds” (447). As a result finance has developed into much more than producing money. It is now seen as a science or academic study. It involves not only numbers but scientific and behavioral aspect of how people invest, spend and react to money

Week 11 Blog Reviews

Victoria – Both of your blogs from last week were great. You provided good detail when you discussed Italian immigration. Your blog was informative and interesting and I loved how you were able to write about your grandmother’s response to this issue. I also liked your thoughts on materialism. You made exceptional points by stating that materialism is really on a individual basis because what might be viewed as a material thing to someone may be different to another. Great job!!!!

Megan – Your blog on the issue of immigrant workers was great!!! You really did your research and provided your reader with incredible detail. I liked that you discussed the Irish and everything they brought t o America. Your materialism blog was just as good. You brought up points referring to the countries debt as well as how we define others by what they have. I liked that you summarized your overall idea by concluding that we need to find a happy balance between having things and depending on them. Great job!!!!





Directed Free write –



For centuries the role of government has been a constant debate. There are those who view our system of government as a necessary part of life and are convinced that without it our society will cease to exist. On the other hand, there are those, like Sameer Parekh who is identified as a “libertarian of a new sort” (435). Using what is known as cryptography or “the science of scrambling messages so they cannot be read by prying eyes” (435), Sameer attempts to challenge Washington’s authority. “For the libertarian set, today’s encryption technology is the best thing to come along since the right to bear arms” (437). This libertarian thinking involves the idea that with cryptography, there is no paper trail. “Bad news, of course, for the Internal Revenue Service and its 3,570 page maze of a tax code” (437). Libertarians, such as Sameer, are thrilled that they have managed to hide from big brother and that they have the freedom to operate without paying the U.S its cut.


Bottom line, people like Sameer Parekh see the government as an intrusive hassle. They want citizens of the U.S to truly be free from the strains of the system and think “all government control should be stripped away” (443). But like any controversy, there is another side to this argument. Some argue that government is the only way to maintain society. With government comes rules and with that comes the enforcement of these rules. So these same people proclaim that a society lacking government would consist of utter chaos. They feel that a system of government has been put into place to act as a protector of the people not to intrude on the lives of individuals.


Seeing as how I am currently taking a justice theory class, I found this article to be particularly interesting. A major issue constantly discussed among theories, is the concept of too much government. How much is too much? Where do we draw the line between the government serving a purpose and being a nuisance? It is my personal belief that we do need and always will need government. In order to maintain a sustainable atmosphere there must be a central power of some sort. People being able to go and do as they please would ultimately wreak havoc on everyone. It is human, more often than not to act responsible if there are consequences for our actions. Take away these consequences and you are left with a lot of problems.

American Dream

In the article “Economics of Being Hispanic” the author describes the hardships of being a migrant worker in the U.S. he provides statistical evidence stating that “According to the U.S Department of Labor, median weekly earnings in 1988 for a full time worker 16 years of age or older were $572, or about $30,000 a year. The median for a Hispanic worker, in contrast, was $398, or about $21,000 per year” (421). He goes on to explain some of the factors that are currently harming Hispanic earnings, lack of education being a primary source. “And as improved living standards become more dependent on education and skills in an informative- base economy, immigrants (half of them Hispanic) are falling further and further behind” (422). The author sums up the article by proclaiming that despite people’s negative attitudes towards migrant workers, Hispanics are “actually a net revenue generator and not just a “fiscal burden”.



Another ethnic group that faces these economic controversies is Native Americans. Despite the fact that they have been pushed to reservations, people still often view them as a threat to the “American economy”. They feel they take jobs away from “American born citizens” by working for cheap labor and neglect to see the individuals who contribute to society. The reservations themselves generate jobs through the casinos and restaurants. Although these are just two groups of the immigrants mentioned, all ethnic groups face economic scrutiny at one point or another.



I feel the major issue associated with immigrant workers is that a lot of times they are treated as if they are illegal even when they are not. What people need to realize is that, when an immigrant worker is a legal citizen and they are paying taxes, they are contributing just the same as everyone else. It is ridiculous to blame the falling economy on immigrants, just because they are working cheaper. Instead we should look at the business owners who are paying illegal immigrants under the table in order to save money. I really enjoyed John Maggs article and felt he portrayed a real problem that particularly effects a western state such as Arizona.

WEEK 10 Blog

Megan- I really enjoyed your story about the awful cream. I can totally relate to being in high school and feeling uncomfortable in my own body. Your failed consumer product was really creative. In regards to your music blog, I loved how you mentioned the companies not being held responsible and being completely driven by money. You made excellent points about society buying into the idea of the empowering woman. Great job Megan!!!!

Victoria- I loved the title of your blog regarding the music lyrics. It was creative and very true. I liked how you talked about people having the choice whether or not to listen to lyrics that are insulting to women. Your story was just as great. I really enjoyed how you told it and really ejoyed how detailed it was. You have a great writing technique and I can’t wait to read more.


In his article, James Twitchell defines materialism as “the belief that one’s physical possessions constitute the greatest value in one’s life”. In his opinion materialism is nothing more than a human expression. He goes on to say that because it plays such an immense roll in our lives we should all accept it for what it is instead of associating it with negative connotations. He states “Of all the strange beasts that have come slouching into the 20th century, none has been more misunderstood, more criticized and more important than materialism….Yet the fact remains that while materialism may be the most shallow of the 20th century’s various-isms, it has been the one that has ultimately triumphed” (389).



Materialism as a whole has both positive and negative effects on American culture. On a positive note materialism represents our freedoms throughout society. “We live through things. We create ourselves through things. And we change ourselves by changing our things” (389). Another positive perspective is that “it frees us from the strictures of social class. The outcome of material life is no longer predetermined by coat of arms, pew seat, or trust fund. Instead it evolves from a never- ending shifting of individual choice” (396). Twitchell’s overall argument is that materialism allows us a source of happiness as well as gives us the liberty to express ourselves. He describes materialism as “liberating and democratic” (397). Buying a new car for instance doesn’t define us but it allows us freedom and enjoyment.




On the other hand many view materialism as negative and disastrous to American culture. Twitchell states that the belief of these people is that “Our commercial culture has been blamed for the rise of eating disorders, the spread of “affluenza”, the epidemic of depression, the despoliation of cultural icons, the corruption of politics, the carnivalization of holy times like Christmas, and the gnat-life attention span of our youth” (390). With materialistic ideas comes the clash of status and classes. If people have more things than us we see them as being better and if they have less with see them as being beneath us. Instead of seeing a person for who they are we label them dollar signs. These mentalities are negative effects on the American culture.




I disagree with James Twitchell. Although I am the first to admit I love my things, I do not think they define me in anyway. Materialism is a freedom to be enjoyed but people have taken this to a whole other level believing things like love, friendship, satisfaction and happiness can actually be purchased. We as a society need to find a happy medium between enjoying the stuff we have worked hard to earn and thinking that we are consumed within the product.

Wow!!! I really liked the reading for tonight, mainly because I can totally relate to it. I love music and listen especially to hip hop and a little rap. Although a lot of songs are fun and innocent many send a derogatory message about women. And if we are ok with listening to it what does that say about us? This directed free write really calls attention to the women portrayed in these songs and pushes us to question why we deem this as “just lyrics”.



In the article “Louis Chude- Sokei charges the dismissals of “slackness” lyrics as either sexist or pornographic miss the point” (378). He justifies that through these lyrics women feel empowered by their sexuality and as a result by more records than men do. “Like Chude- Sokei, Carolyn Cooper argues that sexual topics in dance- hall lyrics provide an alternative to the denial of women’s sexuality in most popular music” (378). In other words these critics argue that the harsh and often ridiculous lyrics that we sometimes hear are in fact better than other music because we are being introduced to women’s sexuality. This according to them is not degrading or negative but makes women feel as if they have some sort of control with their sexuality.



I will be the first to admit that I too listen to music that talks about women either by calling them names or putting them down. Although I don’t agree with it I still listen to the song and not just one time. But when it comes down to right and wrong, derogatory lyrics are degrading to women and shouldn’t be so widely accepted. If a man referred to a woman as slut or a whore in person he would be in the wrong but if he sings it we all dance around. There is something very sad about that. These lyrics don’t empower women, they teach them to be way too open about their sexuality.

The Blow Out

It was Valentine’s Day weekend and sadly enough I had no date and no plans to speak of. Feeling bad for myself I agreed to baby sit for my boss. As I headed to his house I felt my steering-wheel start to vibrate and pull hard to the right. I swerved and managed to come to an awkward stop at the side of the road. Shaken I got out of the car and searched for the problem. It took only a moment for me to discover that I had a flat tire. Irritated I called my dad to ask for help.



Answering on the first ring my dad said he would be there to help. He got off the phone and started to leave his office. As he headed towards my stranded car he heard a load whooshing sound. Startled he pulled to the side only to find that he too had a flat tire. Mixed with emotions of frustration from his situation and not being able to help me he threw open the trunk in search of a spare. He was flabbergasted when he realized that his spare too was flat. Thinking quickly he called my aunt who drives the same exact car hoping he could borrow her spare.



He pulled out his cell and began to dial her number. When she answered he hastily explained the predicament he and I were in and asked for her spare. To his surprise she started laughing hysterically. A little agitated with her response he demanded to know what was so funny. Through her laughter she told him that about an hour ago she had run over a piece of sheet metal and her tire had been shredded. Thus her spare tire was currently in use until she could get a new one. Luckily my mom was able to pick both me and my dad up and eventually everyone’s tires were fixed.

Week 8 Blog Reviews

Nicole- To start, I liked your comment about love being something guys felt as well as girls. I think the common misconception regarding love is that it’s a “girl thing”. I completely agree with your thinking on the bio-chemistry of love and laughed at your reflection on men’s bad behavior. Your blog really ties into my essay and it helped me to write more. I also liked your view on the homosexuality of men verses animals. I too think that if animals are instinctively attracted to same sex partners, who’s to say mankind isn’t. Great job!!!!

Deirdre- Your blogs are really informative but allow the reader to formulate an opinion. I also completely agree with your theory on beliefs being a major factor of relationships. I hadn’t even considered that aspect and I felt you provided an excellent point of view. Also, I liked how you ended your blog with the question pertaining to why we cannot accept homosexuality. It gives your reader the ability to keep thinking even after you have finished your discussion. Good work.

The Gay Side of Nature

For years people have tried to understand the concept of homosexuality. Once considered a disease or mental impairment, being gay has been evaluated and theorized with the hopes of one day being explained. Even though it is more common it is still viewed as being abnormal and most hold the belief that something is “wrong” with gay people. Sexuality is a diverse and bewildering thing yet we are so quick to accept the notion that men belong with women and vice versa. In his article, Jeffrey Kluger presents a scientist that attempts to explain the rationality behind homosexuality.




The cognitive scientist Bruce Bagemihl has written a book called Biological Exuberance, in which he researches the sexual complexity of the animal kingdom. He has ultimately discovered that animal species frequently obtain same sex partners. “What’s more, same- sex partners don’t meet merely for brief encounters, but may form long-term bonds”. Bagemihl’s findings bring to light what is deemed “natural” in regards to human behavior. He argues that if animals naturally bond with the same sex then humans would have an equal capability to acquire the same bond. He continues to explain that acts of nature can be used to explain human behavior. Bagemihl writes “Animal sexuality is more complex than we imagined. That diversity is part of human heritage”. If birds, giraffes and monkeys of the same sex are emotionally and physically drawn to each other it pushes the issue of homosexuality amongst humans. If homosexuality is not a “choice” as so many people believe we must accept the theory that it is a natural part of life just as opposite sex relationships.



Many scientists dispute Bruce Bagemihl’s claims with the explanation that sexuality is used differently amongst animals. Because species lack verbal communication they in turn use sexual behavior for “alliances and appeasing enemies, all things animals must do with members of both sexes”. Bagemihl responds to this by referring to the animals such as the graylag geese and bears that stay with their same sex partner for years and have been known to form family units with them. As it stands, homosexuality is still a conflicted issue. Many still believe that being gay has nothing to do with natural human nature but is a chosen lifestyle. But Bruce Bagemihl brings an enlightening view to homosexuality and allows us to open our minds to sexual behavior by watching animals in the wild.

Peer Group Blog Review

Peer Blog Reviews

Deirdre- I really liked reading your blogs. You offer significant information and make valid points throughout your reading. I like how you mentioned if women and men could come together as far as their differences are concerned they could have a better relationship. Your writing is simple and easy to follow. I look forward to reading your essay next week. Hopefully I will have more suggestions for you!!!!

Nicole- I liked that you had a lot to say this week. You have good technique and allow your reader to really understand where you are coming from. I really liked your ideas on monogamous relationships and found your insights on population surplus to be completely accurate. Good job Nicole!!! Can’t wait to read your essay!!!

Pg 310 #1

In her essay “Can’t Do without Love: What Science says about those tender feelings” Shannon Brownlee expresses the scientific notion that a man and women’s instinct to love “is written into our biochemistry”. Her article explains that humans were not only designed to procreate but to actually fall in love. And as such the loss of love can have devastating results to the human body. Brownlee notes that the emotion of love started with motherhood with a chemical called oxytocin. This same chemical, researchers believe “helps fuel romantic love as well”. Brownlee continues by saying that it is not unlikely that two people who enjoy being around each other will produce endorphins and when they are separated they will in effect miss that feeling.




Helen Fisher’s article “After All Maybe It’s…..Biology” follows in sync with the idea that love is based more on biology and chemistry than most people acknowledge. She takes a different angle by discussing the mating rituals of men and women. She compares the tactics used by human beings to that of similar mammals. She writes “Then there is the swagger with which young men often move to and fro. Male baboons on the grasslands of East Africa also swagger when they foresee a potential sexual encounter”.



As I read these articles I began to question my own reasoning behind the concepts of love, attraction and courtship. If these are the affects of biology, people’s beliefs regarding such things would be changed dramatically. For instance if two people were to meet, instead of looking for “chemistry” such as attraction, commonality or humor they would actually base their feelings off of a biological reaction. Love would not be considered an emotion but a chemical balance between you and another. This in turn could very well change our behaviors and cultural expectations. If people looked at love as a biological element they would seek different mating rituals or possibly not try to mate at all.

Marriage and Relationships

# 2
In his essay Robert Wright states “Lifelong monogamous devotion just isn’t natural, and the modern environment makes it harder than ever”. This statement ultimately sums up Wrights beliefs on marriage and monogamous relationships. He goes on to explain that a key component to divorce is the “modern obstacle to lasting monogamy”. Marriage is deemed a monogamous relationship between two people and when one of those people strays, the monogamy is gone thus leading to a failed marriage. As the divorce rate climbs to an all time high, often due to cheating spouses, we must ask ourselves why the idea of monogamy is being cast aside. And if Wright is correct in believing that marriage cannot survive in modern society should it be preserved or abolished?


As discussed in last week’s reading, marriage at one time was not so much a relationship, as a way of life. People married to produce children and in turn created a unit to survive. Today, marriage is a choice and is less demanded or expected. However as the need to marry has dwindled so has the expectation to actually remain married. Till- death- do- us- part has become mere talk and divorce is now the norm. Evolutionary psychologists have studied “the process of natural selection” and have theorized why humans are drawn to marriage and why they are deterred from it. As humans we are apt at one point in time to fall in love, the problem with human nature is that we are just as likely to fall out of love. Psychologists believe that this natural behavior is affected by our environment. “In particular, evolutionary psychology shows how inhospitable the current social environment is to monogamy”. Society has pushed the notion that cheating is acceptable and furthermore has encouraged the behavior with movies, billboards and the internet. Such things offer naked and provocative images of the opposite sex which in turn leads a partner’s mind to lose interest in their spouse, according to evolutionary psychologist Douglas Kenrick.



Robert Wright’s essay has provided prime examples of why marriage is so difficult and often doomed to fail. However, there is still something to be said for the purity and devotion between two people. The commitment of marriage is what separates us from animals. Instead of continuously jumping from mate to mate, we as humans maintain the capability to have a lasting relationship with one specific person. Marriage is a gift and should be preserved as one. Instead of dismissing marriage because of its potential problems, we should acknowledge the difficulties and attempt to overcome them. The mind is an incredible thing and often it cannot be explained why it acts a certain way, but if we are capable of loving then we are capable of working through our issues especially when they concern our marriages.

WEEK 6 BLOG REVIEWS

Deirdre Cienki – Deirdre, I really liked reading through your blogs for last week. You have great writing skills and your points are reflected in a smooth and non confusing way. I thought you made a great point when you talked about homosexuality today as well as forty years ago. I have often been undecided as to whether homosexuality is a chose or purely biological. In regards to your movie review, I have not actually seen “Wild Hogs” but I felt you did an excellent job of explaining the film. I also liked how you were able to compare your movie to that of “Thelma and Louise”. Great job!!!!!

Nicole Erickson- Nicole, your writing reminds me a lot of my own; it is short and to the point. You have great vocabulary and your blogs really reflect that you understand what you are reading. I liked how you mentioned the different advances in technology that are no doubt changing our lives. Moving on, I love “A League of Their Own”. It is one of my favorite movies and I thought you put an excellent spin on the “real wild women” theme. You are very creative and I can’t wait to read more. Keep up the good work!!!!

DIRECT ED FREEWRITE


As I read this week’s article I found myself nodding along and even laughing at how accurate the author was. In her essay Deborah Tannen attempts to explain the differences between the opposite sex and how it relates to communication. She suggest that because men and women place different values on communication, more often than not there is conflict within a marriage or relationship. Women view communication as a vital and intimate part of a relationship while men only talk when they have to. I have experienced this first hand as I am sure most women have.



In her writing, Tannen describes a man who is talking at a party to some friends while his wife sits silent by his side. The man dominated the conversation throughout the night and towards the end remarks that his wife is actually the more talkative of the two of them. This little story fits me and my boyfriend perfectly. As a business owner, my significant other has been given the gift of gab. In social situations he can talk for hours about nothing in particular but as soon as were alone he’s lost for words. I used to become so angry and hurt by his actions and my resentment would do nothing but cause conflict. I had to learn to accept that men are just different. They see communication as a mere tool only to be used when need. As a woman I see communication as way to relate to one another, just as Deborah describes.



Deborah Tannen’s article gave explanation to many of the conflicts that I along with many other women have encountered. Everything we say, feel, think or even portray with our body language is opposite from each other. Men were built to act a certain way as were women. I think if we as men and women could acknowledge how different we are and work around our differences there would be a lot less conflicts.

CAPITALISM AND GAY IDENTITY

I have to say “Capitalism and Gay Identity” has been my favorite reading. D’Emilio discusses a variety of points and argues a perspective I have never considered in regards to gay and lesbian identity. He explores the relationship between homosexuality and growing capitalism. According to D’Emilio the rise of capitalism caused the reliance on family to dwindle. With the ability to “sell our labor power for wages” work could be found outside the home. Men were no longer forced to tend their own land and therefore the need to marry and produce more children to work, did not exist. D’Emilio says that this demolishing of the family unit was an opening for gay identity. Once the idea of creating a family became a personal decision rather than a required one, sexuality could be something of pleasure and not just procreation. Thus different sexual identities appeared.



It is no secret that the typical American family has changed dramatically throughout the years. Some argue that this change can be attributed to the “revolutionary shift in our economic and social lives”. Let’s face it, computer technology, science, capitalism it all plays a factor in today’s standard family. As D’Emilio’s essay describes, the average family, back in the day, consisted of a mom, dad and seven to ten children. Every day was work and each member of the family had a vital role. They depended on each other for food, water, shelter and clothing. However as technology enhanced it pushed the family apart by giving us the means to be independent.



As we look at today’s family we see that there are a lot less children and often there is a broken home where the family has been split up. Men and women marry later in life if at all and sometimes live together without even being married. The standard American family is based on completely different criteria than that of a previous generation. Although these families are still units within themselves the dependency has dropped considerably. One could argue whether the results of capitalism and technology have been positive or negative but the fact remains things have changed. And as long as technology grows things will constantly be changing.

Real Wild Women/ Wild Real Men

While doing this assignment I started thinking about all of the movies that feature the “real wild women” or “wild real men” characteristics. I was surprised when a ton of films came to mind. But the one that fit this assignment the best was the Life Time movie “Love’s Deadly Triangle: The Texas Cadet Murder”. This enticing movie is based on the true story of two teenagers who kill out of love and devotion for one another. They commit a heinous crime and justify their actions through romantic motivation.


The main characters of this film include Diane Zamora, David Graham and Adrianne Jones. Diane Zamora is high school student who is madly in love with her practically perfect boyfriend David Graham. She is a straight A student and has plans to attend a military school after graduation. David Graham also wants to follow the military route like that of his soul mate. He is a great student and athlete and has plenty of plans for the future. Adrianne Jones is a bright eyed sophomore who loves running track. She is smart and beautiful and an all around threat to Diane Zamora.


The author of “Seduction and Betrayal in the Heartland: Thelma and Louise” describes the Thelma and Louise movie as avoiding “the trap of superficial gender – war movies, typified by female-abuse –and –knee –jerk revenge plots” (Boozer 212). This description can also be applied to “Love’s Deadly Triangle: The Texas Cadet Murder”. This movie lacks the typical woman seeking revenge from a man and instead offers a woman seeking revenge from another woman. The movie describes a warm night when the two lovers swear that nothing will ever come between them and that they will always be together. However despite his promise to Diane, David Graham finds himself kissing Adrianne Jones after a track meet. When David can no longer stand the guilt he confesses his sins to Diane. She is mortified and demands that something be done immediately. Her and David plot to kill Adrianne and after they have achieved their goal they go on living their lives as if nothing has happened. It is not until years later that their secret is uncovered and they are finally brought to justice.


Diane Zamora clearly represents what is described as the “real wild women” character. She is the aggressor throughout the story. Once she realizes she has been deceived by David she is blood thirsty and craves revenge on Adrianne Jones. She manipulates David into killing Adrianne and after David has shot her Diane takes a turn of her own. Often films reflect the male murderer or aggressor. This movie incorporates the hatred and evil of a female perspective. David Graham also falls into the category of the “wild real men” characteristic. He partakes in the killing of Adrianne but does so reluctantly. He is hesitant to hurt this innocent girl but is under the control of Diane as she is the dominating spouse.

Peer Review

Jade- I always look forward to reading your blogs. Not only do they offer detailed information but they are extremely relatable. Your summary of Wright’s article was great. It informed me of the issue at hand but only focused on the main points. I really liked how you explained the complex of a computer not being able to handle the simple things. Your painting description was equally good. You were able to relate to the picture and interpret what the artist was trying to say. I agree that this particular artwork gives the observer the opportunity to form their own conclusions and ideas. Great job Jade!!!




Jessica- Your summary of Wright was well written. It was easy to understand and written in way that allowed me to form my own conclusion to the issue. I loved your explanation of the painting. You did an exceptional job researching the history of this artwork. Based on your knowledge of the artist I could actually feel my heart breaking for her. It turned what may have been a grotesque drawing into a tearful masterpiece. Your information was brilliant and I liked that you were able to personalize your blog by relating to her pain. Keep up the good work!!!!

Frida Kahlo

I was really hesitant to do this assignment originally. I am not an art person and couldn’t begin to write “impressionistic description”, but after looking at the different pieces Frida Kahlo has created I was actually moved. I am familiar with some of his work but had no idea he had done so many paintings. As I browsed through them, I was aware of how detailed and graphic Kahlo’s work is. I also noticed how similar all of his artwork seemed to be. For this assignment I chose a painting done by Frida Kahlo that I caught my eye the most. The painting is called Self Portrait Along the Border Line Between Mexico and The United States.
In this portrait Frida has painted a Mexican woman wearing a pink gown. In one hand she holds a Mexican Flag and in the other a cigarette. The woman is standing on a cement block with an engraving carved in the stone. On the ground to her left are what appears to be fans and lights, electricity. To the woman’s right is soft dirt and vegetables. In the background, past the lights, the artist has drawn buildings and a factory with the word FORD painted on the smoke stacks. Polluted air fills the sky and a faint American flag is seen. On the side with the vegetables Kahlo has painted rocks, dirt and a tomb. The sun, the moon and lightening are also incorporated and ancient artifacts liter the earth.
I loved staring at this painting. I found it to be extremely symbolic and had me thinking about so many things. Frida Kahlo clearly portrayed the cultural differences between the countries of Mexico and the United States. He painted the U.S as a money and power hungry society that revolves around our factories and companies of any sort. The painting shows the pollution and sky scrapers as consuming our country. On the other hand, Mexico is seen as being non-inhabited and culturally preserved. There is weather and clouds over looking fresh grown vegetables. There are artifacts are lying on the ground untouched and deserted. And no part of any industrial revolution is seen on the Mexico side. There isn’t electricity or production of any kind. I think the artist was trying to convey the concept of how different these countries are as well as what may be important to the people of these said countries. I also believe that the Mexican Flag represents Mexico, while the cigarette represents the United States, which speaks volumes. I have to admit even I see Mexico as Frida painted it, old and lacking industrial motivation. However I know this to be false. Mexico too has shops, factories and companies. But I found myself asking these questions; is the United States just as Frida Kahlo painted it? Has all or most of our sacred land become smoke stacks? Are we thought of by other countries as nothing but pollution?

Week 3 Blog Reviews

Jessica-


I really enjoyed reading your blogs this week. I feel that you and I share in many of the same beliefs and love being able to read your views on certain topics. I found the article on Minsky to be entertaining but I completly disagreed with his overall idea. I was surprised to read that you too found the concept of a "conscious computer" to be questionable. You made an exceptional point when you emphasized that inorder for a computer to "be aware" or to process, a human being would have to manually enter in the information. I also liked your thoughts on "What is Consciousness?" You clearly explained how something as broad as conciousness could be considered scientific. As previously said I really enjoy reading your blogs. Your writing is detailed but gets to the point.



Jade-


I was thrilled to see that you had answered the other possible question. I liked being able to compare my thoughts and ideas with yours. I think you did a great job on incorporating pop culture and entertainment, the I- Robot was a smart connection. I disagreed with Minsky, but oddly enough found myself agreeing with the main points of your blog. I guess anything really is possible and technology does seem to have endless possiblities. You know your'e a good writer if you can persuade the reader to change their mind about something. Good Job!!!


CAN MACHINES THINK????

Although somewhat confusing and repetitive, Robert Wright’s essay focuses on one major question, “Can Computers Think?” Wright introduces his article by discussing the chess tournament between experienced competitor Garry Kasparov and IBM’s chess program Deep Blue. Kasparov was determined to win in order to defend the “human dignity” as he proclaimed. The chess match, human versus machine brings to light the issue of computers and their overall capabilities. When a machine is able to complete a task just as a human would is it thinking? And if the computer can think what is preventing it from reasoning or having a conscious? These unanswered questions are the key ingredients to Wright’s article. As Wright points out, Deep Blue’s chess playing skills were never doubted it was the notion that the program was actually “thinking” for itself that launches the debate.



Despite the continuing progress of technology, Wright says that people still hold the belief that machines in fact cannot think. His article explains that such people categorize thinking as an emotion. With this being said an emotion can only be experience by a living breathing being, something that has consciousness. He uses Deep Blue and Kasparov as a prime example. When Kasparov lost his first game he was sad and upset. Would Deep Blue have felt or thought these feelings upon losing? Most individuals would answer no but, as Wright’s article talks about, could this change?





The article goes on to explore the debate between Chalmers and Daniel Dennett. Chalmers, a professor of philosophy and Dennett a well known philosopher have argued over the concept of consciousness. Chalmers sees consciousness as “a deeper puzzle than many philosophers have realized.” (Wright 142) Dennett on the other hand is convinced that as far as consciousness is concerned “the puzzle has been reduced to “a set of manageable problems.” (Wright 142) The issues concerning this debate intertwine with Wright’s key points. Depending on how someone may view consciousness ultimately sways their decision on whether or not our computers are thinking.

Class Discussion

Marvin Minsky is a founding father of the Artificial Intelligence or AI. A director at of the AI Laboratory, Minsky set out to create computer software that would mimic the characteristics of a human. It is his belief that machines could be built with a conscious. “Consciousness is being aware of what is happening in the world and in one’s mind.” (Minsky) With this definition of the human conscious, Minsky goes on to explain that machines will surpass the human brain. He states “The human brain has only very limited records of what it has been doing recently.” (Minsky) Therefore a machine of any sort would be far more conscious than a human because we as humans “didn’t evolve for that.” (Minsky) A computer on the other hand has the potential to “be programmed to keep a record of all its internal states and then to trace back through these.” A human lacks this capability thus making Minsky’s point.
Marvin Minsky clearly states in this article that he does not see an advanced computer as being smarter than the mind of a human being. He admits that a computer could be designed to have a high level of consciousness and yet still be unfamiliar with what to do with it. This is where the concept of common sense becomes a challenge to Minsky’s goals. But in regards to which or what is smarter, Minsky is well aware that there are still multiple things that the most sophisticated machine is incapable of doing.
Although I enjoyed reading this particular article I do not agree with Marvin Minsky’s ideas nor do I agree with his definition of consciousness. The human brain is extremely complex and unexplored. Despite our scientific notions on what goes on for the most part there are things science simply can’t explain. A person’s conscious, thought, idea or feelings are these types of unexplainable things as well as biological features that cannot be placed in a machine. In regards to the idea of a computer having more consciousness than a person, I have to agree with John Searle, “Consciousness, he argues, “is a natural biological phenomenon.” With this being said how can a computer achieve the mind of a person? Furthermore, a person’s conscious is a far more in depth concept than Minsky describes. It is not as simple as being aware of what is happening. It involves feelings, thoughts and ideas of human being.

Class Discussion/ Peer Review

Class Discussion Page 96

2. It is my personal belief that certain parts of the study of consciousness can be considered scientific. Although the concept of consciousness is obviously associated with brain function it lacks certain scientific requirements. Robert Hazen writes this in his article, “For a question to be scientific, it must be answerable through a reproducible process of observation, experiment and theory”. Which leads me to believe that some parts of consciousness is scientific while others are not.
According to Robert Hazen, any study of brain function is deemed scientific. Scientists have the ability to “focus on the mechanics of consciousness”. They can study the human reaction to external stimuli as well as capture brain waves and how it functions. All of these aspects of consciousness are on the scientific spectrum. The problem that falls outside the scope of consciousness is what Hazen describes as “the intangible connections between the physical brain and self-awareness, emotion, perception, and reasoning”. It is this other side of consciousness that cannot be scientifically studied and therefore cannot be considered scientific.
The beliefs of a reductionist are that neurons alone can explain the concept of a thought, idea or emotion. They see anything that involves the brain as being scientifically explainable. On the other hand, there are the skeptics. Skeptics believe the exact opposite, in that there is no way of physically understanding consciousness. I fall in between these two groups believing there is truth to both arguments.



PEER REVIEW

Erin Lyng- Didn’t have Postings for 9/1/09 or 9/3/09

Jade Arneson- I really enjoyed reading your blogs Jade. Not only did you make identifiable points but your writing is easy to follow as well as comprehend. I completely agreed with your view of “self” in regards to the online classroom and liked how you reflected on your previous notions prior to reading Kenneth Gergen’s essay. Your blogs are well thought out and detailed.

Jess Tavizon- Jess, I have to start by saying I love your background, it’s colorful and creative. I also found your writing to be extremely detailed and entertaining. I thought your example of not truly knowing somebody unless you have met them was exceptional. I too would think you were an extrovert had you not clearly explained that you are in fact not. I felt this was a great way to show evidence towards your overall point. Great writing!!!!

Do You Need God to Be Good

I found Thursday’s reading to be particularly interesting for many reasons. As a religious individual I would like to uphold the assumption that religious priorities prevent us from wrong doing. I think myself, as well as others often make this misconception. As a society, we can be quick to stereo-type. For instance; a Sunday school teacher wouldn’t steal but an atheist might. The author of this article does an exceptional job of providing evidence of this faulty thinking. He introduces research studies that have proven an individual of belief is more likely to commit a crime.
To answer the question at hand, I do not believe someone “needs God to be good”. The author clearly makes this point in his writing in the Beedles’ chapter. As human beings we can often be classified by our beliefs or thoughts. But it is not our ideas so much as our actions that matter. In other words, if I am a follower of God and preach the gospel but steal from the collection plate, what really matters? In this situation my actions have overpowered my beliefs. The same is true for an atheist. Just because someone is lacking in faith does not discredit their moral consciousness. With this thought in mind I also feel very strongly that individuals do not in fact “need God” in order to have morals or good behavior.
The truth of the matter is that we are humans and therefore subject to mistakes. People are not without flaw and thus it goes without saying that not all religious people are always good. As the chapter from Beedels discusses, research has in fact proven that people with religious affiliations will cheat or lie or ignore a helpless victim. At the same time an individual may show good behavior without the guidance of a higher power. Although there are always exceptions it is unfair to assume that in order to be moral you must partake in religion.

Online Interaction

Social Psychology – The Individual Self

The concept of one’s self is complex and almost indefinable. Although we may believe we are one person comprised of oneself we are in fact constantly changing who we are. In order to blend or function in varying situations we may be forced to portray different images of who we truly are. As a result of our ever changing identities, our true selves can often be lost or compromised. “Self” as related to an online class can also fall in the category of adjusting to the situation. Although they are speaking through a computer, an individual may still feel the need to alter his or her self.
However as previously mentioned, an online class lacks what Charles Horton Cooley describes as primary group interactions. The impression we make in an online class versus a traditional class can differ dramatically, solely based on the lack of face to face interaction. In the traditional class room setting we are forced to introduce ourselves putting a name to a face. Thus being able to comprise an impression of who we feel this person might be. Seeing a blog and a picture of someone can create an entirely different impression than that of an actual meeting.
To truly know and understand someone, I think it is important to be able to sit and speak with them in person. I really enjoy online classes and have taken many of them over the course of my educational career. However, I will be the first to admit that I have always walked away feeling as if I never really knew the instructor or my fellow class mates. I spoke with them on a regular basis but it was always school related. I was never able to know them on a personal level like the students in a regular classroom. This is just my outlook and others may strongly disagree but a certain kind of relationship is formed when are given the opportunity to sit next to someone versus communicating with them via the internet.

Kayla Smith

Hello my name is Kayla Smith. I just turned twenty on Saint Patrick’s Day and have lived in Arizona my entire life. My family is extremly large and can often be very overwhelming at times. I am the oldest of five girls and although I no longer live at home I try to make my sisters a number one priority. We are very close despite our ages ranging from 2 years old to 20 years old. My mom and I also share a special bond, like that of my sisters. She is my best friend and my greatest mentor.
Through the help and support of my family I recently received my Associate’s Degree from Chandler Gilbert Community College. This is my second semster at A.S.U and am still becoming acquainted with the campus. I have decided to major in Justice Studies seeing as I want to go to law school. After completing law school I would like to work in landlord tenant law. I am currently employed with a law firm in Gilbert and our focus is business and real estate litigation. I am a legal assistant as well as maintain our billing department. Although stressful and consuming I love my job and the people I work with.
My schedule is constantly full between work and school but in my spare time I enjoy spending time with my friends and boyfriend. Our favorite past time is taking our boat to the lake for the weekend. I also like to fish and occasionally camp. When I am not on the lake and time permits I love to read and watch movies. As mentioned, my life is crazy, with little time to slow down, but I appreciate every moment of it.