On Tuesday class was enlightening; we covered a lot of quotes and ideas. Although some of these quotes have deeper meanings to them, I believe some are obvious to the eye if one just reads carefully. There is one quote that I can relate to: “The community is necessary if values that owe their existence solely to usage and general acceptance are to be set-up; by himself the individual is incapable of fixing a single value.” First, I would like to clarify that the “community” is the well-known leaders of America and “himself the individual” is the common people of the world. This basically means that the famous leaders in society play a major role in our language, but an individual, like I don’t hold much power. For example, the word “nigger” has been around for centuries, it was used to describe dark-skinned people or those from the African ancestry. Now, it is thought of as a derogatory word that affects the black community. African American rappers use the word “nigger” in a different context called Ebonics, which is better known as “nigga.” Taking the ending off of the word makes it sound more appealing to these rapper’s audiences, but in reality the root word is still there and the history behind it still exists. This word was not only converted into another word, but it was made to be pleasing to society. If a normal Samaritan like me was to try and convert this offensive word into a nicer version it would be impossible because of my social ranking with in the world.
Publicity plays a major part in this conflict. It’s a conflict because our society should be more aware of these issues rather than being ignorant about them. If this word had no historic background to it, then I would question the power of hegemonic forces, but there is a time when we as individuals have to draw a line.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Bumble 1/22/08 : post class
Sounds of Silence. There is a reason that Simon and Garfunkel could sing an entire song about the “sounds” that silence makes!
According to Pierre Machery said, always look at what is NOT being said.
Hatred, love, attraction, confusion, anger… all of these words are expressed so powerfully in silence. In fact in many ways these are all expressed more powerfully with no words at all.
Love and attraction is symbolized through body language, a stare, a gaze, a smile.
Hatred can be seen in a stare as well or simply a lack of response. If someone asks a question and there is no response, that choice to be silence is POWERFUL!
Is there a sound of silence? Well clearly there is or as a culture we wouldn’t hate awkward silences so much, they mean so much more then filler words!
Why is it that when discussing and learning about relationships we are always told, never just listen to what he/ she is telling you. You have to watch the actions because actions speak louder than words. People might tell you that they love you, but if they act differently, those actions of acting distant are way more of an accurate measure of feelings then words. Again, this relates to our discussion in class the other day about the lack of trust of words. Do words actually still have meaning? Sadly we are diminishing the meaning of words which is not always a good thing. Then again, we also discussed that language and words are all Arbitrary so do they actually mean anything at all in the first place? Words are simply how people define symbols and our thoughts and try to explain them, so maybe that is why the silence is so much more important!
Silence is powerful and can often get mixed up less then the inconsistencies of language. How do we all understand each other? This boggling question raised in class makes us aware that we have this incredible ability to retain experiences and apply them to our understanding of words, languages, and signs. But because all of our understanding of languages is cultural and is based on setting and our common shared experiences, it is so easy for miscommunication to occur. A great example of this was when I was in high school I was playing a game of lacrosse and all of the girls on the field were yelling in our shared peculiar language of this sport. My father was on a phone with a business client who asked him, “Are you at a chicken farm, I keep hearing chickens?” My dad laughed and said actually you are hearing a team full of girls yelling in a language that they seem to understand! We could miraculously understand eachother, but someone who had never been exposed to this situation before could easily confuse it for a chicken coup.
It might sound like cock-a-doodle-doo, or as you were saying in French, Cookoo- ree—coo.
Another example of the miscommunications and differences in languages is when I was watching my baby sisters play in a play ground. They had just moved to Dubai, which is a mixture of all different countries and languages. So in the playground you have a girl speaking in Flemish, Russian, Finish, French, Urdu, Arabic, and they were speaking in English. While the adults were watching, we were pondering how a group of children who have no common language will be able to communicate and play. Well, somehow these little children managed to play, they did not see a barrier but rather found the common language of FUN!! They did not take long before somehow developing games, rules, and hugs. It is remarkable because we wonder how we can all understand each other, but maybe we are all more alike then we thought and are able to identify with things together. If you try hard enough you can most likely find a common language with almost anyone you meet. Whether it is the language of fun, science, math, smiles, or just being a girl or boy.
Language barriers can be very funny, and I have come across some amusing complications people have had with their travels around the world.
“In an Italian hotel, signs by the bell: If service is required, give two strokes to the maid and three to the waiter.”
“In a Bed & Breakfast in France: Please avoid coca watering, cream cleaning, wet towels wrapping, and ironing drying”
According to Pierre Machery said, always look at what is NOT being said.
Hatred, love, attraction, confusion, anger… all of these words are expressed so powerfully in silence. In fact in many ways these are all expressed more powerfully with no words at all.
Love and attraction is symbolized through body language, a stare, a gaze, a smile.
Hatred can be seen in a stare as well or simply a lack of response. If someone asks a question and there is no response, that choice to be silence is POWERFUL!
Is there a sound of silence? Well clearly there is or as a culture we wouldn’t hate awkward silences so much, they mean so much more then filler words!
Why is it that when discussing and learning about relationships we are always told, never just listen to what he/ she is telling you. You have to watch the actions because actions speak louder than words. People might tell you that they love you, but if they act differently, those actions of acting distant are way more of an accurate measure of feelings then words. Again, this relates to our discussion in class the other day about the lack of trust of words. Do words actually still have meaning? Sadly we are diminishing the meaning of words which is not always a good thing. Then again, we also discussed that language and words are all Arbitrary so do they actually mean anything at all in the first place? Words are simply how people define symbols and our thoughts and try to explain them, so maybe that is why the silence is so much more important!
Silence is powerful and can often get mixed up less then the inconsistencies of language. How do we all understand each other? This boggling question raised in class makes us aware that we have this incredible ability to retain experiences and apply them to our understanding of words, languages, and signs. But because all of our understanding of languages is cultural and is based on setting and our common shared experiences, it is so easy for miscommunication to occur. A great example of this was when I was in high school I was playing a game of lacrosse and all of the girls on the field were yelling in our shared peculiar language of this sport. My father was on a phone with a business client who asked him, “Are you at a chicken farm, I keep hearing chickens?” My dad laughed and said actually you are hearing a team full of girls yelling in a language that they seem to understand! We could miraculously understand eachother, but someone who had never been exposed to this situation before could easily confuse it for a chicken coup.
It might sound like cock-a-doodle-doo, or as you were saying in French, Cookoo- ree—coo.
Another example of the miscommunications and differences in languages is when I was watching my baby sisters play in a play ground. They had just moved to Dubai, which is a mixture of all different countries and languages. So in the playground you have a girl speaking in Flemish, Russian, Finish, French, Urdu, Arabic, and they were speaking in English. While the adults were watching, we were pondering how a group of children who have no common language will be able to communicate and play. Well, somehow these little children managed to play, they did not see a barrier but rather found the common language of FUN!! They did not take long before somehow developing games, rules, and hugs. It is remarkable because we wonder how we can all understand each other, but maybe we are all more alike then we thought and are able to identify with things together. If you try hard enough you can most likely find a common language with almost anyone you meet. Whether it is the language of fun, science, math, smiles, or just being a girl or boy.
Language barriers can be very funny, and I have come across some amusing complications people have had with their travels around the world.
“In an Italian hotel, signs by the bell: If service is required, give two strokes to the maid and three to the waiter.”
“In a Bed & Breakfast in France: Please avoid coca watering, cream cleaning, wet towels wrapping, and ironing drying”
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
NewYorker, 1/22
Today's class really helped to clarify the reading about language/semiotics. The powerpoints were strong, and the discussion was really good. I loved the "ghoti" slide, because last time I've seen or discussed that was in high school when one of my teachers showed that for the first time, and every now and again I think about it, but it is so random that I can never bring it up in any conversation and discuss it. That exersice, and word alone, jus goes to show how crazy the english language is, and how arbitrary spelling actually is.
Further, today's discussion proved that language is man-made. Vocabulary changes, phrases change, new words come into our radar, other words fade out, and already established words can all of a sudden mean something totally different. It's weird to think that just about 4 years ago Facebook did not exist, and now all of a sudden, there's this new set of vocabulary and phrases that everyone has now heard and is accustomed to. For example, the word 'friend' can now be used as a verb, as in, "I just friended you." or "Tag it" means that someone will post pictures and label your name under your face so it shows up in your profile. And what about phrases that have disappeared? Such as "That's neat." "That's groovy." "Golly," or "Gee whiz." How does that happen? Like all of a sudden one day everyone woke up and decided they weren't going to talk like that, or use those words any more. Or the invention of new words, like 'sick' meaning awesome - how does that happen? I know that on page 6 the book spoke about an individual setting these trends vs a larger system/community setting it, but in this day and age with the advancements of technology, this stuff is able to spread like wild fire. It makes me wonder what we will be saying in 10 years as the "cool phrase" to say, or what terminology we'll get rid of. And not only language, but customs too. Customs are certainly man made, and those change over time as well, usually due to an incident. Take 9/11 for example - flying will never be the same or go back to how it was pre- 9/11. One can't even say the word "bomb" in an airport without someone getting concerned. We can't even take a water bottle we brought from home on the plane, and we have to take off our shoes - even flip flops before going through security!! If anyone fears change, it is time you over come your fear, because change nowadays is inevitable and happens faster and more frequently.
Further, today's discussion proved that language is man-made. Vocabulary changes, phrases change, new words come into our radar, other words fade out, and already established words can all of a sudden mean something totally different. It's weird to think that just about 4 years ago Facebook did not exist, and now all of a sudden, there's this new set of vocabulary and phrases that everyone has now heard and is accustomed to. For example, the word 'friend' can now be used as a verb, as in, "I just friended you." or "Tag it" means that someone will post pictures and label your name under your face so it shows up in your profile. And what about phrases that have disappeared? Such as "That's neat." "That's groovy." "Golly," or "Gee whiz." How does that happen? Like all of a sudden one day everyone woke up and decided they weren't going to talk like that, or use those words any more. Or the invention of new words, like 'sick' meaning awesome - how does that happen? I know that on page 6 the book spoke about an individual setting these trends vs a larger system/community setting it, but in this day and age with the advancements of technology, this stuff is able to spread like wild fire. It makes me wonder what we will be saying in 10 years as the "cool phrase" to say, or what terminology we'll get rid of. And not only language, but customs too. Customs are certainly man made, and those change over time as well, usually due to an incident. Take 9/11 for example - flying will never be the same or go back to how it was pre- 9/11. One can't even say the word "bomb" in an airport without someone getting concerned. We can't even take a water bottle we brought from home on the plane, and we have to take off our shoes - even flip flops before going through security!! If anyone fears change, it is time you over come your fear, because change nowadays is inevitable and happens faster and more frequently.
Bella 1/22 Post Class
“In language, one can neither divide sound from thought nor thought from sound” de Saussure (6). In class today you described sound and thought as a mathematical equation, that one cannot exist without the other. One cannot exist without the other, but without the cultural understanding of what each thought/sound expression means, the meaning cannot be expressed. I could say, I am cold, but if no one understood my word for that sensation, they wouldn’t understand what I’m saying. Without an understanding of feeling cold, my words would mean nothing, anyway.
“Choice of a given slice of sound to name a given idea is completely arbitrary”-de Saussure. When I was younger, I was one of those weird kids that tried to make up their own language (after deciding Pig Latin was beneath me), and tried to teach all of my friends so we could communicate in secret code. We had a notebook covered in unicorn and puppy stickers that we kept all our “dictionary”, all the words we had come up with. Ultimately, we decided that a bunch of 8 year olds would have a hard time coming up with an entire language, so we just created funny substitutes for our words-of-choice. I love the idea that our language was completely made up over time…some dude made up words, decided they would mean something, and lucky for him, they stuck. It is a cultural phenomenon today that words can disappear just as fast as they appear. Media has an enormous influence over pop-culture and slang word uses–the word, Fergalicious, for instance. I’m not quite sure how Fergie intended it to be used in vocabulary, but I am pretty sure that it means something cool. The ‘licious’ craze has hit the streets, being added on to describe something like ‘booty-licious’ (Thank you, Beyoncé).
“Choice of a given slice of sound to name a given idea is completely arbitrary”-de Saussure. When I was younger, I was one of those weird kids that tried to make up their own language (after deciding Pig Latin was beneath me), and tried to teach all of my friends so we could communicate in secret code. We had a notebook covered in unicorn and puppy stickers that we kept all our “dictionary”, all the words we had come up with. Ultimately, we decided that a bunch of 8 year olds would have a hard time coming up with an entire language, so we just created funny substitutes for our words-of-choice. I love the idea that our language was completely made up over time…some dude made up words, decided they would mean something, and lucky for him, they stuck. It is a cultural phenomenon today that words can disappear just as fast as they appear. Media has an enormous influence over pop-culture and slang word uses–the word, Fergalicious, for instance. I’m not quite sure how Fergie intended it to be used in vocabulary, but I am pretty sure that it means something cool. The ‘licious’ craze has hit the streets, being added on to describe something like ‘booty-licious’ (Thank you, Beyoncé).
sawsaw 1/22
I found today's discussion to be very interesting and relevant to our everyday lives. The point Dr. Rog made about how in today's society a sign or symbol can represent something as a whole was very insightful. The example used was how we can just look at the sign for BP gas stations and immediately identify it as BP. I find myself capable of doing this with a lot of different brands. The fact that we only need signs and symbols to describe a certain thing astonishes me. This fact just proves how commercialized our world has become. These big corporations have become so powerful that people associate their name with a certain product. This is seen in Coco-Cola. Instead of people saying would you like a soda they ask if you would like a coke. Everyone identifies Coke with soda. The two are interchangeable. This also proves the power of advertising. Much thought goes into the colors, wording and graphics of a product. These factors are used to stimulate the consumers mind and to be intrigued by the product. It amazes me just how powerful the English language can be. There are so many multiple meanings for words yet they are universally accepted and understood. There are numerous words that sound the same yet have totally different meanings and spellings. Air and Heir are a perfect example of this. The power words and language have on our society is one that can't go unnoticed. The control signs and corporations have on our everyday lives is something that will only continue to grow.
sawsaw, Barthes
In Roland Barthes' The Pleasure of the Text, the point I found most interesting was how people read different texts differently. He writes on page 108, "We do not read everything with the same intensity of reading; a rhythm is established, casual, unconcerned with the integrity of the text; our very avidity for knowledge impels us to skim or to skip certain passages in order to get more quickly to the warmer parts of the anecdote." I find this statement to be very true in my own life. When I am reading a required text that I don't find interesting I skim through it without really letting the language sink in. When I am reading a text that I find enjoyable I try to let every word sink in and meditate on every sentence. When you are truly enjoying a piece of literature you become encompassed in the language and essence of the writer. Barthes writes on page 111, "The pleasure of the text is that moment when my body pursues its own ideas." The essence of what Barthes is trying to say here is that readers really need to take pleasure in the text. We need to allow ourselves to truly take pleasure in the words and allow our minds to explore places they never have.
kMO 1/21 Post Class
Memo – You request that I "Think before I blog” well my response to that would be
“Read CAREFULLY before you react...” I am simply responding to the works of de Saussure and stating HIS ideas. Clearly the study of language is an extensive field and has a lot to do with symbols. Never once did I try and claim that there is no
“language for the deaf.” To exclude almost 10 percent of our population would seem shallow and close-minded don’t you think? As far as trying to impress others and representing the “misguided” portion of our culture I believe that you are a perfect example of what we discussed in class today. To use the words of de Saussure one last time, “Language is a system of interdependent terms in which the value of each term results solely from the simultaneous presence of others.” As far as being fluent in another language, you clearly have no idea how important it is to be able to make comparisons between other cultures when marketing certain products. The more I read your comments on my peer’s blogs the more obvious it becomes to me that you have never sat down and read the works of any of the scholars we are currently studying.
As a post-class response I would like to comment on the quote, “The community is necessary if values that owe their existence solely to usage and general acceptance are to be set up; by himself, the individual is incapable of fixing a single value.” The example of the replacement of fat with shirt was phenomenal. The fact that a multi-platinum rapper can easily integrate ridiculous words into our society proves that these days, anything is possible.
“Read CAREFULLY before you react...” I am simply responding to the works of de Saussure and stating HIS ideas. Clearly the study of language is an extensive field and has a lot to do with symbols. Never once did I try and claim that there is no
“language for the deaf.” To exclude almost 10 percent of our population would seem shallow and close-minded don’t you think? As far as trying to impress others and representing the “misguided” portion of our culture I believe that you are a perfect example of what we discussed in class today. To use the words of de Saussure one last time, “Language is a system of interdependent terms in which the value of each term results solely from the simultaneous presence of others.” As far as being fluent in another language, you clearly have no idea how important it is to be able to make comparisons between other cultures when marketing certain products. The more I read your comments on my peer’s blogs the more obvious it becomes to me that you have never sat down and read the works of any of the scholars we are currently studying.
As a post-class response I would like to comment on the quote, “The community is necessary if values that owe their existence solely to usage and general acceptance are to be set up; by himself, the individual is incapable of fixing a single value.” The example of the replacement of fat with shirt was phenomenal. The fact that a multi-platinum rapper can easily integrate ridiculous words into our society proves that these days, anything is possible.
Sgt. Pepper, de Saussure
"The arbitrary nature of the sign explains in turn why the social fact alone can create a linguistic system. The community is necessary if values that owe their existence solely to the usage and general acceptance are to be set up; by himself the individual is incapable of fixing a single value." (p. 8)
I think what this is saying can be compared to the idea that "in language there are only differences." (p. 10) Like saying that language is basically made up of differences, de Saussure is also saying that the values within a linguistic system cannot be made up by a single individual. In order to obtain meaning for any values at all, it is necessary for there to be an agreement between the community. These values, then, are simply determined by the differences that the community sees and thus considers when fixing their values.
It's so interesting that the languages spoken today serve as rhetoric to how each society who started the language once lived. Though language has evolved tremendously since the beginning of any language, language still serves as a clear reflection on how our societies differ.
I think what this is saying can be compared to the idea that "in language there are only differences." (p. 10) Like saying that language is basically made up of differences, de Saussure is also saying that the values within a linguistic system cannot be made up by a single individual. In order to obtain meaning for any values at all, it is necessary for there to be an agreement between the community. These values, then, are simply determined by the differences that the community sees and thus considers when fixing their values.
It's so interesting that the languages spoken today serve as rhetoric to how each society who started the language once lived. Though language has evolved tremendously since the beginning of any language, language still serves as a clear reflection on how our societies differ.
Monday, January 21, 2008
kMO 1/21 Pre Class
In response to many of the prior posts regarding the readings for Tuesday (1/22), the study of language and semiotics is important in ways that most couldn’t begin to imagine. When beginning the process of studying “signs in language” I had the initial tendency to lean towards a physiological approach to understanding. However, semiology is actually much more closely related to ideology.
The idea that the most definitive role of language is to “serve as a link” between thought and sound is an easily controversial and confusing concept. In simple terms, thought cannot be removed from sound and sound cannot be removed from thought, creating a codependent situation. By conjoining these two units language emerges.
When we think of language we think of words, sentences and paragraphs. However, it is also necessary to consider value and signification. Many believe that there is no difference between value and signification. When referring to the study of language, that assumption could not be farther from the truth. In fact, the differences between these terms are as clear cut and concise as the difference between the act of listening and the act of speaking.
Values are generally defined as being subjective concepts that govern human behavior. The best example I have read yet (after two semesters of studying these concepts) is given by Saussure on page 6 of A Critical and Cultural Theory Reader. I am fluent in French and therefore this comparison was very helpful. He states, “The French word mouton can have the same signification as English sheep but not the same value. When speaking of a piece of meat ready to be eaten English uses mutton instead of sheep. The difference in value between sheep and mouton is due to the fact that sheep has beside it a second term while the French does not.” \
The idea that the most definitive role of language is to “serve as a link” between thought and sound is an easily controversial and confusing concept. In simple terms, thought cannot be removed from sound and sound cannot be removed from thought, creating a codependent situation. By conjoining these two units language emerges.
When we think of language we think of words, sentences and paragraphs. However, it is also necessary to consider value and signification. Many believe that there is no difference between value and signification. When referring to the study of language, that assumption could not be farther from the truth. In fact, the differences between these terms are as clear cut and concise as the difference between the act of listening and the act of speaking.
Values are generally defined as being subjective concepts that govern human behavior. The best example I have read yet (after two semesters of studying these concepts) is given by Saussure on page 6 of A Critical and Cultural Theory Reader. I am fluent in French and therefore this comparison was very helpful. He states, “The French word mouton can have the same signification as English sheep but not the same value. When speaking of a piece of meat ready to be eaten English uses mutton instead of sheep. The difference in value between sheep and mouton is due to the fact that sheep has beside it a second term while the French does not.” \
nichole de Saussure
"Semiology is always determined within ideology and in a relation to subjectivity"
I feel like this quote, above all in our first class reading, is perhaps most important in understanding for the remainder of the class. In the field of advertising, this quote is relevent because its necessary for advertisers to encode meaning through symbols into the ad which can be decoded by the viewer, making out what the can of the symbols encoded (which is why the interpretation is subjective) and if successful in the advertisement's ultimate goal, perhaps through humor or sentiment, the audience will remember the product and eventually buy into it.
One advertisement in particular comes to mind when I think about the importance of ideology in commercial advertising and that is the Kay Jewlers christmas commercial. If you dont remember it, its the one where the little girl helps her dad give the mom a three stone diamond ring representing the past present and future. We seldom think about what symbols are encoded in an ad but everything is in the ad for a reason. Even the music can stand a a symbol, the romantic theme song playing softly in the background (which our culture has determined romantic music= soft piano, which also makes me wonder WHY, if we were told from birth that Punk Rock is romantic, would we believe it?). We understand the advertisement cleaerly: diamonds say "I love you". But to another culture, say a remote tribal country, what is a diamond? nothing but a stone. This is why everything in media is so subjective and pertanent to one specific culture. That same tribal community would not understand the codes written into the advertisement or the ideology behind diamonds. The means of how we interpret signs is strictly subjective.
I feel like this quote, above all in our first class reading, is perhaps most important in understanding for the remainder of the class. In the field of advertising, this quote is relevent because its necessary for advertisers to encode meaning through symbols into the ad which can be decoded by the viewer, making out what the can of the symbols encoded (which is why the interpretation is subjective) and if successful in the advertisement's ultimate goal, perhaps through humor or sentiment, the audience will remember the product and eventually buy into it.
One advertisement in particular comes to mind when I think about the importance of ideology in commercial advertising and that is the Kay Jewlers christmas commercial. If you dont remember it, its the one where the little girl helps her dad give the mom a three stone diamond ring representing the past present and future. We seldom think about what symbols are encoded in an ad but everything is in the ad for a reason. Even the music can stand a a symbol, the romantic theme song playing softly in the background (which our culture has determined romantic music= soft piano, which also makes me wonder WHY, if we were told from birth that Punk Rock is romantic, would we believe it?). We understand the advertisement cleaerly: diamonds say "I love you". But to another culture, say a remote tribal country, what is a diamond? nothing but a stone. This is why everything in media is so subjective and pertanent to one specific culture. That same tribal community would not understand the codes written into the advertisement or the ideology behind diamonds. The means of how we interpret signs is strictly subjective.
Bella Response to Bumble on De Saussure
Bumble, You are speaking my language. (Pardon the pun). Language fascinates me, as well. I have been studying Spanish since I was 13, and have come to pretty darn close to fluency by this point. It still blows me away every time I meet someone new and am able to communicate with them in their language. Just last week in my taxi ride for Orlando International, I was sitting in the back talking with a man who survived the Coup in Chile, lived as a refugee in Argentina, homeless, with small children, no money, and with no hope. Today, he’s here in Orlando and both of his children are doctors. Hearing his story made me appreciate my communication skills and my understanding of his culture. Without my language skills I wouldn’t have been able to talk to him, but without an understanding of the history of Chile, I would have had no appreciation for what he was talking about! De Saussure talks about using our past knowledge to understand the world we live in and having something to compare it to, and I would totally agree. When Antonio was finished I immediately tried to find some horrible story I could relate his to, or show him some way of understanding. You said, “It is almost impossible to understand something without our history of things to compare it too.” I have and appreciate my understanding of history, but I always have to find some way to relate to him. Sitting with Antonio in the car also made me realize how much I hate awkward silences. The whole reason I began conversation with him was because I couldn’t stand the idea of a 25 minute taxi ride without speaking to the man driving me. I cannot stand have silence between another and myself. Maybe society has conditioned me to find silence inappropriate in some way? You said, “it will force me to think of unique ways of describing things as opposed to relating it to past experiences. Each word has a value, and I want to learn how to master the use of the value, how can I analyze what each word is worth and what it symbolizes? Also, do words mean the same thing to me as they do to others?” Each word has a value. I often forget it and say things that have absolutely no importance whatsoever, but it’s true. Every word does have it’s own value, and could mean different things to different people. You described how certain cultural symbols and non-verbal forms of communication are interpreted cross-culturally–it’s so true. It’s crucially important in our globalized society to learn, appreciate, and understand that English is not a universal language, that signs are interpreted differently in different nations and that the world we live in is steadily changing.
NOTE FROM DR. ROG ABOUT BLOG POST TITLES
Just a reminder:
1) When you title an after-class post, do so with your blog name followed by the date: "Dr. Rog, 1/17," e.g.
2) When you title a pre-class post, do so with your blog name followed by the author about whom you are writing: "Dr. Rog, Barthes," e.g.
This way I, and others, can tell them apart.
Thanks.
1) When you title an after-class post, do so with your blog name followed by the date: "Dr. Rog, 1/17," e.g.
2) When you title a pre-class post, do so with your blog name followed by the author about whom you are writing: "Dr. Rog, Barthes," e.g.
This way I, and others, can tell them apart.
Thanks.
Bumble 1/21/08
Another point about language and communication...
Language barriers can lead to very amusing experiences. Saussure wrote on page 8 that, "Being part of a system, it is endowed not only with signification but also and especially with a value…” This concept is that our sense of reality is in large part shaped by our vocabulary and so we can comprehend certain phrases, while in other places in the world it would mean something entirely different. My favorite example of this was when he used the example that, “in some languages it is not possible to say ‘sit in the sun’” (page 8). It is quite amusing to think about that statement LITERALLY! Even the point he makes about in French the plurality of certain body parts, in French class I learned that when we say we are brushing our hair, we must imply that it is hair plural or you would literally be saying that you are brushing one single strand of hair. There are many expressions that we take for granted, with words that we have applied meaning too that would not necessarily make sense if thinking about the language grammatically. There are certain expressions which can not be translated correctly from the original language, it is a concept that might not exist in our language structure. For example in Hebrew there is an expression which is pronounced as: Ezze Hutspa. This expression means something like, “oh what nerve that person had.” It is not the same though to say it in English as it is to say it in the language where the expression is used. Actually one of the most incredible language structures is Yiddish. This peculiar language actually infuses jokes and sarcasm into the language in a way that many of languages do not have. The way it is structured is a symbol of how the people who created the language were feeling. Mentality of those who spoke Yiddish was very cynical and people needed to infuse the humor into the language to keep strong during a lot of discrimination.
Because of the variation of language uses around the world, first I want to commend translators who can fluently speak 4, 5, or 6 languages because it is remarkable. Also, this article made me think about a post made by Sgt. Pepper about our obsession with cell phones and the use of technology in our world today. We are able to communicate across these weird boundaries of time and space. In fact most of us spend more time communicating with people who are far away as opposed to face to face. Just think about all of the miscommunication that stems from this, particularly if you are talking with someone who speaks another language. When saying something like, “ I am going to sit in the sun,” how does that person know if you mean you want to sit on something underneath the sky when the sun is shining or if you literally mean to fly to space and sit IN the sun. Language is so tricky!!
Language barriers can lead to very amusing experiences. Saussure wrote on page 8 that, "Being part of a system, it is endowed not only with signification but also and especially with a value…” This concept is that our sense of reality is in large part shaped by our vocabulary and so we can comprehend certain phrases, while in other places in the world it would mean something entirely different. My favorite example of this was when he used the example that, “in some languages it is not possible to say ‘sit in the sun’” (page 8). It is quite amusing to think about that statement LITERALLY! Even the point he makes about in French the plurality of certain body parts, in French class I learned that when we say we are brushing our hair, we must imply that it is hair plural or you would literally be saying that you are brushing one single strand of hair. There are many expressions that we take for granted, with words that we have applied meaning too that would not necessarily make sense if thinking about the language grammatically. There are certain expressions which can not be translated correctly from the original language, it is a concept that might not exist in our language structure. For example in Hebrew there is an expression which is pronounced as: Ezze Hutspa. This expression means something like, “oh what nerve that person had.” It is not the same though to say it in English as it is to say it in the language where the expression is used. Actually one of the most incredible language structures is Yiddish. This peculiar language actually infuses jokes and sarcasm into the language in a way that many of languages do not have. The way it is structured is a symbol of how the people who created the language were feeling. Mentality of those who spoke Yiddish was very cynical and people needed to infuse the humor into the language to keep strong during a lot of discrimination.
Because of the variation of language uses around the world, first I want to commend translators who can fluently speak 4, 5, or 6 languages because it is remarkable. Also, this article made me think about a post made by Sgt. Pepper about our obsession with cell phones and the use of technology in our world today. We are able to communicate across these weird boundaries of time and space. In fact most of us spend more time communicating with people who are far away as opposed to face to face. Just think about all of the miscommunication that stems from this, particularly if you are talking with someone who speaks another language. When saying something like, “ I am going to sit in the sun,” how does that person know if you mean you want to sit on something underneath the sky when the sun is shining or if you literally mean to fly to space and sit IN the sun. Language is so tricky!!
Bumble 1/21/08 : preclass
Language, is such a bizzare concept.
It is as though human begins are computers. We are programmed throughout our lives. We are conditioned to acquire certain language skills and sure enough we are miraculously able to pull them out and use them when we want to express something. How did this all begin? It is incredible that we are able to retain information, translate signs, make connections with signifiers and communicate with other human beings.
What is even more incredible to me though is thinking about the use of non verbal communication. We are able to communicate across generations, cultures, races, nations and still are able to make sense out of each other. It is also amazing though how every nation and culture makes different meaning out of hand gestures and eye contact. While eye contact is a symbol of respect in America, it is a simple of disrespect and threat in many other countries. That is why the study of signs and language and communication practices are so crucial, particularly when attempting a business transaction with someone who might interpret signs differently. Why do we all interpret things the way that we do? It is an after though to see a billboard with a half naked girl on it for a shampoo commercial. If we were to step back and actually look at what that billboard were symbolizing and communicating would we accept it so effortlessly?
Another interesting aspect of the Saussure reading relates to what we had discussed in class about pulling in our past knowledge of the world and our past literature and knowledge bank in our minds. It is almost impossible to understand something without our history of things to compare it too. All to often we make references to compare, but what if we have never experienced the? Our language skills would be entirely different. Saussure says that when thinking about how to articulate something, we “think first of its property of standing for an idea…” (Saussure 7). Automatically we try to think of how to describe something. I hope that through being able to stand back and look objectively at texts that I will work on my ability to express myself much more clearly, because it will force me to think of unique ways of describing things as opposed to relating it to past experiences. Each word has a value, and I want to learn how to master the use of the value, how can I analyze what each word is worth and what it symbolizes? Also, do words mean the same thing to me as they do to others? It is clear that our background and past experiences, our throwness into this world affects what and how we understand something. Even a hug can mean different things in different contexts. While in some places it can trigger a feeling of love to someone else it might trigger a response of sadness or pity, because they are relating it to a past experience that they have had that shaped how they value that sign or word.
It is as though human begins are computers. We are programmed throughout our lives. We are conditioned to acquire certain language skills and sure enough we are miraculously able to pull them out and use them when we want to express something. How did this all begin? It is incredible that we are able to retain information, translate signs, make connections with signifiers and communicate with other human beings.
What is even more incredible to me though is thinking about the use of non verbal communication. We are able to communicate across generations, cultures, races, nations and still are able to make sense out of each other. It is also amazing though how every nation and culture makes different meaning out of hand gestures and eye contact. While eye contact is a symbol of respect in America, it is a simple of disrespect and threat in many other countries. That is why the study of signs and language and communication practices are so crucial, particularly when attempting a business transaction with someone who might interpret signs differently. Why do we all interpret things the way that we do? It is an after though to see a billboard with a half naked girl on it for a shampoo commercial. If we were to step back and actually look at what that billboard were symbolizing and communicating would we accept it so effortlessly?
Another interesting aspect of the Saussure reading relates to what we had discussed in class about pulling in our past knowledge of the world and our past literature and knowledge bank in our minds. It is almost impossible to understand something without our history of things to compare it too. All to often we make references to compare, but what if we have never experienced the? Our language skills would be entirely different. Saussure says that when thinking about how to articulate something, we “think first of its property of standing for an idea…” (Saussure 7). Automatically we try to think of how to describe something. I hope that through being able to stand back and look objectively at texts that I will work on my ability to express myself much more clearly, because it will force me to think of unique ways of describing things as opposed to relating it to past experiences. Each word has a value, and I want to learn how to master the use of the value, how can I analyze what each word is worth and what it symbolizes? Also, do words mean the same thing to me as they do to others? It is clear that our background and past experiences, our throwness into this world affects what and how we understand something. Even a hug can mean different things in different contexts. While in some places it can trigger a feeling of love to someone else it might trigger a response of sadness or pity, because they are relating it to a past experience that they have had that shaped how they value that sign or word.
romulus
Much took place in the postmodern world, we live in the digital age now. Globalization has drastically changed the world. The last few days I've been obsessively reading the New York Times. There is so much happening at the same time. While Saudi Arabia is building several cities simultaneously out of the desert; foreign entities up buying stakes in major American companies from all sectors because we are on sale; and today's drop in stocks worldwide. Anyone who has investments is probably on edge, but looked at in a positive light, the worlds economy is balancing out. In the postmodern world, there were 2 superpowers that dominated the world, we went over this in class. Those superpowers, the United States and The USSR represented extreme opposite economic schools of thought. Economies depended on either one of those powers for survival. With the collapse of the Soviet Union less than 2 decades ago, capitalism raced across the globe. Most economies of the world have been opened up. Some of them not only caught up, but are surpassing us on different levels. What is going to be remembered about the digital age is that this is when the economies of the world joined together.
The explosion of media and language is like more and more people are finally joining the conversation. More voices are being heard, the number of social movements that have taken place during the postmodern time frame seem illogical for it to take that long to happen. With English working as a universal language across the world, and transportation taking us anywhere, with communications reaching almost every corner, live in a world of invisible waves, the world is a crazy place to think about.
Why am I uninterested in politics? I can answer that. It seems that as communication with a person on the other side of the globe is instant, trying to speak directly to those in power is an impossible and tedious task.
The explosion of media and language is like more and more people are finally joining the conversation. More voices are being heard, the number of social movements that have taken place during the postmodern time frame seem illogical for it to take that long to happen. With English working as a universal language across the world, and transportation taking us anywhere, with communications reaching almost every corner, live in a world of invisible waves, the world is a crazy place to think about.
Why am I uninterested in politics? I can answer that. It seems that as communication with a person on the other side of the globe is instant, trying to speak directly to those in power is an impossible and tedious task.
Bella
I must admit, I tried my best to avoid this whole blogging thing when I was younger. Occasionally, I’d secretly study my angsty, pre-teen friends’ blogs, entranced by the sense of ‘real life’ drama. I say ‘real life’ in quotes because to me, it seemed more like reality TV or a bad tabloid magazine than actual emotions my friends could be having. More the often I saw their postings used against them in school–personal feelings or events turned into gossip, Mean Girls style–forever tarnishing their reputations. Needless to say, I wanted nothing to do with it (I like to think of it as self-preservation), yet I was completely fascinated with it at the same time. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t excited to be trying this out after repressing the urge during my teenage years.
So, to get started…what is Postmodernism? I’m in this class learning about this ‘aura’ that we’re living in (or possibly lived through) according to Dr. Rog, and honestly, I’ve never even heard of it before. How sad is that? Ask me when postmodernism ‘began’ before Thursday’s class and I probably wouldn’t have been able to answer. I could have taken a wild guess, but I definitely wouldn’t have said the dropping of the atom bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. I guess I just would never have thought that I could be lumped into the same ‘aura’ as my favorite time period, the ‘roaring 50’s’. (I have a slight fascination with the Hollywood, Pleasantville idea of the 1950’s) It blows my mind to think of myself as being part of the same crowd. Me– a fully-grown product of the teased hair, leg warmers, and shoulder pads that haunted the 80’s! I guess we’re not that different after all. I mean, every generation has their ups and downs, every generation has their battles. We are all the same in that way. The 20 year olds in 1945 had to face the reality of nuclear war as adults. They could no longer hide under their desks fearing the “Cheeseburger effect” of wearing ones’ sweatshirt while being struck with an atomic bomb. The 20 year olds in the 1960’s and 70’s were changing the world, revolting, making sure they would be heard. And here I sit today, typing on my computer, wondering if my brother is going to be shipped to Iraq next fall after he enlists in the Marines. That is my battle, our battle. We’ve all had battles. Maybe that’s where the common ground lies? I will be interested to learn more about the causes and effects of PoMo, and where I fit in to all of this…Dr. Rog, I’m guessing that by the end of this semester I will be able to answer that question without a doubt, and I can’t wait.
So, to get started…what is Postmodernism? I’m in this class learning about this ‘aura’ that we’re living in (or possibly lived through) according to Dr. Rog, and honestly, I’ve never even heard of it before. How sad is that? Ask me when postmodernism ‘began’ before Thursday’s class and I probably wouldn’t have been able to answer. I could have taken a wild guess, but I definitely wouldn’t have said the dropping of the atom bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. I guess I just would never have thought that I could be lumped into the same ‘aura’ as my favorite time period, the ‘roaring 50’s’. (I have a slight fascination with the Hollywood, Pleasantville idea of the 1950’s) It blows my mind to think of myself as being part of the same crowd. Me– a fully-grown product of the teased hair, leg warmers, and shoulder pads that haunted the 80’s! I guess we’re not that different after all. I mean, every generation has their ups and downs, every generation has their battles. We are all the same in that way. The 20 year olds in 1945 had to face the reality of nuclear war as adults. They could no longer hide under their desks fearing the “Cheeseburger effect” of wearing ones’ sweatshirt while being struck with an atomic bomb. The 20 year olds in the 1960’s and 70’s were changing the world, revolting, making sure they would be heard. And here I sit today, typing on my computer, wondering if my brother is going to be shipped to Iraq next fall after he enlists in the Marines. That is my battle, our battle. We’ve all had battles. Maybe that’s where the common ground lies? I will be interested to learn more about the causes and effects of PoMo, and where I fit in to all of this…Dr. Rog, I’m guessing that by the end of this semester I will be able to answer that question without a doubt, and I can’t wait.
ChittyChittyBangBang 1/21
What is Postmodernism?
Well, I'm not an expert.....yet. It is something I am looking forward to learning and understanding more about throughout this semester. I am nervous that I am never going to be able to look at media and my surroundings the same anymore, yet I am glad that I will hopefully have an intellectual grasp on what all of this really means.
It is interesting that there is no literal period of time in which postmodernism began. One of my favorite quotes from class is that it is "an aura, not an era." It is a feeling, something that we can't quite define. All of the events that Notorious Dr. Rog provided such as the Holocaust concept, global warming, bird flu, and 9/11 could all be huge components in the creation of the postmodern aura.
For my generation, I do agree that 9/11 would be the most influencing factor. "The end or the beginning of something new." Postmodernity. A time in which "the technology and aesthetic of speed" is taking over and media is controlling our daily lives. Our world now-a-days is obssessed with speed, we no longer have the patience to deal with slow computers or bad cell phone reception. We need FAST communication or were lost. We need the TV to tell us what's going on in the world, what we should wear, and how we should act. Where is this going to take us in the future?
Well, I'm not an expert.....yet. It is something I am looking forward to learning and understanding more about throughout this semester. I am nervous that I am never going to be able to look at media and my surroundings the same anymore, yet I am glad that I will hopefully have an intellectual grasp on what all of this really means.
It is interesting that there is no literal period of time in which postmodernism began. One of my favorite quotes from class is that it is "an aura, not an era." It is a feeling, something that we can't quite define. All of the events that Notorious Dr. Rog provided such as the Holocaust concept, global warming, bird flu, and 9/11 could all be huge components in the creation of the postmodern aura.
For my generation, I do agree that 9/11 would be the most influencing factor. "The end or the beginning of something new." Postmodernity. A time in which "the technology and aesthetic of speed" is taking over and media is controlling our daily lives. Our world now-a-days is obssessed with speed, we no longer have the patience to deal with slow computers or bad cell phone reception. We need FAST communication or were lost. We need the TV to tell us what's going on in the world, what we should wear, and how we should act. Where is this going to take us in the future?
Sunday, January 20, 2008
BubbaNub 1/20
Postmodernism is the evolution of consumption. To be American is to consume. We have become a nation that consumes everything from “reality” TV to war. Everyday media bombards society with false expectations of materialistic success. These superficial constructs drive our economy while maintaining the classical illusion of the American Dream. However, the American Dream is an empty apology. It is an excuse that attempts to tell us why our nation runs the way it does. We have accepted that order is vital, order is balanced, and most importantly order is safe. In a patriotic society overloaded with propaganda, this is how we are meant to view our government. They maintain order, and in return we are permitted freedom and independence. In reality, the only order our government provides is one maintained by fear. Everyday the media pumps us full of biased information that serves one purpose, to plant fear in our society.
Simultaneously we are told that independence, not profit and wealth, is the supreme value. But in order to obtain this independence we must live in fear and constantly be at war, ready to defend America from “the outsiders”. However, we only end up imprisoning ourselves by trading our independence for promises of future independence. The government inspires fear to shutdown alternative views. This fear goes as far back as the 1950s, and over the years has not changed its appearance much. The red threat of the 1950s has simply been replaced by the 9/11 terrorism alert; our lives have become dominated by this fear. Our attention is diverted, as we look to anyone different then ourselves with distrust, isolating our families within gated suburban communities occasionally looking towards the media to refresh our fears. It turns out fear is one of the best methods of control. People lock themselves away and look towards the government for guidance. We are scared to acknowledge the wrecked state of our economy and government.
There are various methods of control and order in the world, from religion to government; however, most rely on inspiring fear within their subjects. To support this image of fear and ensure control over other areas of the world, America puts large amounts of funds into inexplicable war efforts. We fight because outsiders are threats; we are told they threaten our freedom and independence although our government has already taken them both. It is difficult to see a choice in sides when fear drives America. Fear of failure assembles a working force, fear of outsiders shuts down alternative views, and fear of acknowledging the sad state our society is in keeps us pacified.
Simultaneously we are told that independence, not profit and wealth, is the supreme value. But in order to obtain this independence we must live in fear and constantly be at war, ready to defend America from “the outsiders”. However, we only end up imprisoning ourselves by trading our independence for promises of future independence. The government inspires fear to shutdown alternative views. This fear goes as far back as the 1950s, and over the years has not changed its appearance much. The red threat of the 1950s has simply been replaced by the 9/11 terrorism alert; our lives have become dominated by this fear. Our attention is diverted, as we look to anyone different then ourselves with distrust, isolating our families within gated suburban communities occasionally looking towards the media to refresh our fears. It turns out fear is one of the best methods of control. People lock themselves away and look towards the government for guidance. We are scared to acknowledge the wrecked state of our economy and government.
There are various methods of control and order in the world, from religion to government; however, most rely on inspiring fear within their subjects. To support this image of fear and ensure control over other areas of the world, America puts large amounts of funds into inexplicable war efforts. We fight because outsiders are threats; we are told they threaten our freedom and independence although our government has already taken them both. It is difficult to see a choice in sides when fear drives America. Fear of failure assembles a working force, fear of outsiders shuts down alternative views, and fear of acknowledging the sad state our society is in keeps us pacified.
Cuckoo 1/20
Post-modernism is not something I ever knew much of anything about until class. I find it interesting that there is not an exact date to the start of postmodernism. With so many changes it is hard to find the point where it all began. Different people will give a different starting time for post-modernism depending on their viewpoints. Dr. Rog explained the many different dates that are thought to have possible started it all. From the Nuclear Holocaust in 1945, to the Berlin wall in 1989, to the attacks on September 11th, these are all dates in which post-modernism could have begun. It is up the individual/ generation to decide when post-modernism began for them.
One interesting concept about post-modernism is technology and how we are able to find out anything with in a matter of seconds. We are turning into a society that is so dependent on technology. Earlier today I was talking to someone about how when we do not have our cell phone with us or we are unable to connect to the Internet we feel so isolated from everything. Yet it was just a few years ago that not everyone had the internet or cell phones. Now these two items have formed into one making accessing anything easier and faster. Our lives are centered around technology and if/when it fails us we will be isolated. So is faster always better?
One interesting concept about post-modernism is technology and how we are able to find out anything with in a matter of seconds. We are turning into a society that is so dependent on technology. Earlier today I was talking to someone about how when we do not have our cell phone with us or we are unable to connect to the Internet we feel so isolated from everything. Yet it was just a few years ago that not everyone had the internet or cell phones. Now these two items have formed into one making accessing anything easier and faster. Our lives are centered around technology and if/when it fails us we will be isolated. So is faster always better?
DetectiveDanny 1-20
The idea of postmodernism is not something that I have a firm grasp on just yet, which is interesting because apparently I have been living in a postmodern culture all my life. Because we live in an age of postmodernity, it is important that we use the ideals of postmodernism as a lense to view cultural texts especially when we are studying the media.
One prevailing idea of postmodernism is the idea of holocaust and the end of the world. Whether nuclear, environmental, or biological, we are obsessed with our demise. My generation has been inundated by talk of environmental problems and how we must come up with some solution. Every media outlet propagates these messages of environmental doom, but how much do we actually care? What does it say about us that we are not willing to make drastic change? Why am I not giving up my truck for a bicycle?
Another important facet of postmodernism is the technology and aesthetic of speed. We buy computers and cell phones based on how “fast” they are. I often like wondering what this speed will lead to. How fast are we willing to become? When will technological singularity become an issue? I like going fast, I like being able to access information without having to wait for the internet to load. But why can we not find a point where we are happy with out speed?
Basically what I am most looking forward to with this class is the “aha” moment where I can never look at anything the same way ever again. I am skeptical that this is going to happen, but new viewpoints are always exciting. If more of the population was well versed in critical theory, would we worry about holocausts and obsess over speed as much as we do?
One prevailing idea of postmodernism is the idea of holocaust and the end of the world. Whether nuclear, environmental, or biological, we are obsessed with our demise. My generation has been inundated by talk of environmental problems and how we must come up with some solution. Every media outlet propagates these messages of environmental doom, but how much do we actually care? What does it say about us that we are not willing to make drastic change? Why am I not giving up my truck for a bicycle?
Another important facet of postmodernism is the technology and aesthetic of speed. We buy computers and cell phones based on how “fast” they are. I often like wondering what this speed will lead to. How fast are we willing to become? When will technological singularity become an issue? I like going fast, I like being able to access information without having to wait for the internet to load. But why can we not find a point where we are happy with out speed?
Basically what I am most looking forward to with this class is the “aha” moment where I can never look at anything the same way ever again. I am skeptical that this is going to happen, but new viewpoints are always exciting. If more of the population was well versed in critical theory, would we worry about holocausts and obsess over speed as much as we do?
July 1-17
Dr. Rog went on to explain to the class about when postmodernism started, but there wasn’t an actual date given. This leaves me to believe that our society has created so many time changes throughout history, which makes it hard for Americans to pin-point the establishment of post-modernism. He went on to explain several major dates that could have started it, like the Berlin wall of 1989, Terrorist Acts of 2001, Global Warming which is current, and the expansion of Technology.
I truthfully would not be able to answer the question of the day “When did post-modernism began,” but I know that the Terrorist Acts is a major factor of this dilemma. 9/11 or the Terrorist Acts did change America and American’s viewpoints about life. I understand one of my colleagues feel different about this statement, but in reality things have changed. Yes, lines are backed up almost through the door when one is trying to go through security at the airport and no, things weren’t like this before our airports became a terrorist site. This did not affect one single person, but as a whole many are afraid of flying or they are too impatient to wait through these long lines. This brings us to the quote: “If it is faster, than it is better.” The Terrorist Acts weren’t just about planes crashing into buildings or the new security in our airports, it was about the trust Americans had with our government. We’ve held our country so high above others, in reality bad can happen to anybody as soon as they let their guards down.
Once 9/11 was over we’ve encountered several methods that were being used to advance our state of life. For example, Congress finalized passage of legislation giving government officials new powers to monitor telephone and Internet dialogues and to arrest and hold suspected terrorists. Also, Border crossings in North America began to look like entrances to military bases, so they were monitored all-day and all-night. Working on the top floors of tall buildings suddenly seemed dangerous, rather than prestigious. Those terrorists deprived America from their normal way of life, but the funny thing about it is we can adjust to adversity.
I truthfully would not be able to answer the question of the day “When did post-modernism began,” but I know that the Terrorist Acts is a major factor of this dilemma. 9/11 or the Terrorist Acts did change America and American’s viewpoints about life. I understand one of my colleagues feel different about this statement, but in reality things have changed. Yes, lines are backed up almost through the door when one is trying to go through security at the airport and no, things weren’t like this before our airports became a terrorist site. This did not affect one single person, but as a whole many are afraid of flying or they are too impatient to wait through these long lines. This brings us to the quote: “If it is faster, than it is better.” The Terrorist Acts weren’t just about planes crashing into buildings or the new security in our airports, it was about the trust Americans had with our government. We’ve held our country so high above others, in reality bad can happen to anybody as soon as they let their guards down.
Once 9/11 was over we’ve encountered several methods that were being used to advance our state of life. For example, Congress finalized passage of legislation giving government officials new powers to monitor telephone and Internet dialogues and to arrest and hold suspected terrorists. Also, Border crossings in North America began to look like entrances to military bases, so they were monitored all-day and all-night. Working on the top floors of tall buildings suddenly seemed dangerous, rather than prestigious. Those terrorists deprived America from their normal way of life, but the funny thing about it is we can adjust to adversity.
kaymac 1.17.08
Does each era begin with a revolution or war? Does each generation have its defining moment that describes what it will forever be known in the history books we give to our great great grandchildren? In the past twenty years, the world media has completely exploded to a point where we can find out anything at anytime. Well, at least in parts of the world where modern-day technology exists.
With everything at our fingertips—literally—have we become more aware of the world or less? Do we take this technology for granted, so that when it fails, which is inevitable, we’ll crash and burn so hard that it’ll be the middle ages again? Personally, I know I should read the NY Times everyday, especially since I can get it for free. I know that I should keep up with the presidential race and be an active, contributing member of society. But for me, the more I find out about the world, the less I want to be a part of it. Dr. Rog is right. We do live in an age of fear. No wonder Henry David Thoreau locked himself in an isolated cabin for two years. Things are consumed and regurgitated over and over again, each time made worse and worse. Of course, I think kids will rejoice in the day broccoli is pronounced bad for you.
What I’m curious about is the view of post-modern culture for our generation in Africa, Indonesia, and the southern Pacific Islands. Is it the same for them? Think back to what Dr. Rog said about those little kids from his trip to Asia running up to him and saying “Coca-Cola” and “Michael Jordan.” Is that what the pomo era is to them? American symbols of capitalism that we as Americans don’t even pay attention to anymore? Or is it more? What about the people who live in Russia? Or Iceland? What is pomo to them?
I don’t know what post modernism really is, but then again, I don't think anybody really knows.
With everything at our fingertips—literally—have we become more aware of the world or less? Do we take this technology for granted, so that when it fails, which is inevitable, we’ll crash and burn so hard that it’ll be the middle ages again? Personally, I know I should read the NY Times everyday, especially since I can get it for free. I know that I should keep up with the presidential race and be an active, contributing member of society. But for me, the more I find out about the world, the less I want to be a part of it. Dr. Rog is right. We do live in an age of fear. No wonder Henry David Thoreau locked himself in an isolated cabin for two years. Things are consumed and regurgitated over and over again, each time made worse and worse. Of course, I think kids will rejoice in the day broccoli is pronounced bad for you.
What I’m curious about is the view of post-modern culture for our generation in Africa, Indonesia, and the southern Pacific Islands. Is it the same for them? Think back to what Dr. Rog said about those little kids from his trip to Asia running up to him and saying “Coca-Cola” and “Michael Jordan.” Is that what the pomo era is to them? American symbols of capitalism that we as Americans don’t even pay attention to anymore? Or is it more? What about the people who live in Russia? Or Iceland? What is pomo to them?
I don’t know what post modernism really is, but then again, I don't think anybody really knows.
Jiggy 1/20
The concept of postmodernism seemed fussy and confusing at first. Through last weeks class I began to understand it not as a distinct period but more as a concept. The debate on the beginnings of postmodernism is very interesting and shows the multiple meanings that it has to people across the world. Starting with the fear of nuclear Holocaust and ending with the attacks of 9/11 the inception of postmodernism in our culture is one for great debate. More important, however, is the concept itself. The last two hundred years has seen more technological advances then the prior two hundred thousand years of human history. We are in an age stressing the importance of communication and the development of technologies to convenience and globalize our societies. Inventions such as the radio, TV and computer have changed social and economic approaches to daily life. We live in a world that believes, as mentioned in class, that "newer and faster is better". Postmodernism is a concept that effects us everyday, even if it is silent in affect.
WouldntUlike2know 1/17
In class on Thursday, Dr. Rog gave a quick overview of the major themes of postmodernism. From cultural revolutions to technological advances and breakthroughs, he described how each has contributed to the current state of our contemporary culture. But how do these closely relate to me?
Being that I am the daughter of an upper class white family, none of the racial, sexual, or multicultural revolutions had any deep impact on me. Perhaps I am naïve to it but I do not feel that my life has any sense of meaninglessness to it. I am perfectly content and, what’s more, excited with the direction that my life has taken. (Samuel Beckett did not really hit home with me either). What struck me from this class is something that I did not realize until around 3 o’clock Thursday afternoon.
Fear. For the past nineteen years, my fears have been rather trivial. As a 4 year old, I feared what was under my bed. As a nine year old, I feared going to a different school and meeting new friends. In junior high, I feared that I wouldn’t have a date to the winter formal in the schools gym. In high school I feared not getting into the right college. Now, as a college student living in the beautifully safe neighborhood of Winter Park, I feel totally safe walking on campus at night. Sure, everyone hears the stories of young college women being abducted but their scenarios are much different. They were in a sketchy part of NYC and were making stupid decisions. Its terrible to say this but until I realized how quickly events can turn, I felt invincible. (Knock on wood).
Thursday afternoon, I gained some perspective. It was at that time that I received a phone call from my Dr’s. office. They had gotten my routine lab results in and found that I needed to come in for a few more tests. So I went back to have them done. Unfortunately, this test is not “newer, faster, or better” so I am sitting and waiting for at least two weeks to find the results. I have forcibly realized that my previous, content and blissfully ignorant reality “aint what it used to be.”
Being that I am the daughter of an upper class white family, none of the racial, sexual, or multicultural revolutions had any deep impact on me. Perhaps I am naïve to it but I do not feel that my life has any sense of meaninglessness to it. I am perfectly content and, what’s more, excited with the direction that my life has taken. (Samuel Beckett did not really hit home with me either). What struck me from this class is something that I did not realize until around 3 o’clock Thursday afternoon.
Fear. For the past nineteen years, my fears have been rather trivial. As a 4 year old, I feared what was under my bed. As a nine year old, I feared going to a different school and meeting new friends. In junior high, I feared that I wouldn’t have a date to the winter formal in the schools gym. In high school I feared not getting into the right college. Now, as a college student living in the beautifully safe neighborhood of Winter Park, I feel totally safe walking on campus at night. Sure, everyone hears the stories of young college women being abducted but their scenarios are much different. They were in a sketchy part of NYC and were making stupid decisions. Its terrible to say this but until I realized how quickly events can turn, I felt invincible. (Knock on wood).
Thursday afternoon, I gained some perspective. It was at that time that I received a phone call from my Dr’s. office. They had gotten my routine lab results in and found that I needed to come in for a few more tests. So I went back to have them done. Unfortunately, this test is not “newer, faster, or better” so I am sitting and waiting for at least two weeks to find the results. I have forcibly realized that my previous, content and blissfully ignorant reality “aint what it used to be.”
Starfish 1/17
Before Thursday’s class I knew very little about Postmodernism. I had heard the word a countless number of times, but never realized that I was affected by it directly. I found learning about the different aspects of postmodernism interesting. Usually eras or certain points in history have exact dates, but no one seems to have pinpointed exactly when it started. There are many different theories, but I guess it is left up to the individual to decide for them selves. When I personally think of postmodernism I think of revolution and breaking new ground, therefore I think 1968, the time of the worldwide revolutions is a good contender for the actual start of postmodernism.
Another concept I found interesting was the idea of postmodernism being about absurdity. This idea really “clicked” in my head. Everyday we are surrounded by things that many believe to be normal. Just look at television for example. While flipping through channels I see tons of reality television shows. Survivor, The Amazing Race, Cheaters, Americas Next Top Model, Celebrity Rehab and dating shows like I love New York. To us, these shows are normal because we have been exposed to them and they are a big part of our media of our culture, but in reality they are absurd. The concepts for these shows are ridiculous but we find them entertaining and watch them anyway. They are labeled “reality” television shows, which I find to be a scary thought. “Reality is not what it used to be,” is a perfect quote for this subject because it is true. Many of these shows, especially ones on MTV preach that everything you are seeing is real and authentic, but it is hard to believe that these people aren’t being told what to do most of the time. These shows are scripted to an extent. This is also an example of certainty to indeterminacy. We are told that these shows are depicting real life and yet we believe the opposite. “
Another concept I found interesting was the idea of postmodernism being about absurdity. This idea really “clicked” in my head. Everyday we are surrounded by things that many believe to be normal. Just look at television for example. While flipping through channels I see tons of reality television shows. Survivor, The Amazing Race, Cheaters, Americas Next Top Model, Celebrity Rehab and dating shows like I love New York. To us, these shows are normal because we have been exposed to them and they are a big part of our media of our culture, but in reality they are absurd. The concepts for these shows are ridiculous but we find them entertaining and watch them anyway. They are labeled “reality” television shows, which I find to be a scary thought. “Reality is not what it used to be,” is a perfect quote for this subject because it is true. Many of these shows, especially ones on MTV preach that everything you are seeing is real and authentic, but it is hard to believe that these people aren’t being told what to do most of the time. These shows are scripted to an extent. This is also an example of certainty to indeterminacy. We are told that these shows are depicting real life and yet we believe the opposite. “
Sgt. Pepper, 1/17
For better or worse, I believe each event Dr. Rog mentioned in class made a huge contribution to postmodernism. Most notably, though, is the advancement our generation is experiencing with technology. And I have to say that I don't like it one bit. Yeah yeah, I have a cell phone. And yeah, I have a computer that I spend way too much of my time on, but I hate that these things are taking up so much of my life, and of everyone else's lives.
I took a class last semester, Asian Religions, that opened up my eyes to a lot of new and very different ideas to the philosophy on life. And the one philosophy that I am constantly trying to follow is the idea of "Be here now." And that's the one thing I think technology isn't letting happen. Do you ever look around while you're walking to class? Is it just me, or are 75% of the people on cell phones talking and texting? I've even seen people run into things! As beautiful as our campus is, and as nice as the weather can be (not counting this week), I think it's a shame not to notice the trees and to really take in the fresh Florida air.
What I'm even more confused about is facebook. I have heard people honestly say that they spend around 3 hours every day on facebook. 3 hours! That's about 1/5 of the time we're awake in a day! Granted I have had facebook and I know how addicting it can be (that's part of the reason I got rid of it), but come on people. Have a conversation with someone instead.
And TV! Don't even get me started on TV.
I do appreciate all the great things we're experiencing with technology. Our world is more connected than it ever has been before, and technology's possibilities truly are endless. But with the good comes the bad, and I guess I just hope that no one forgets about the great things we have that we had even before technology, like a sunny day or a good book.
I took a class last semester, Asian Religions, that opened up my eyes to a lot of new and very different ideas to the philosophy on life. And the one philosophy that I am constantly trying to follow is the idea of "Be here now." And that's the one thing I think technology isn't letting happen. Do you ever look around while you're walking to class? Is it just me, or are 75% of the people on cell phones talking and texting? I've even seen people run into things! As beautiful as our campus is, and as nice as the weather can be (not counting this week), I think it's a shame not to notice the trees and to really take in the fresh Florida air.
What I'm even more confused about is facebook. I have heard people honestly say that they spend around 3 hours every day on facebook. 3 hours! That's about 1/5 of the time we're awake in a day! Granted I have had facebook and I know how addicting it can be (that's part of the reason I got rid of it), but come on people. Have a conversation with someone instead.
And TV! Don't even get me started on TV.
I do appreciate all the great things we're experiencing with technology. Our world is more connected than it ever has been before, and technology's possibilities truly are endless. But with the good comes the bad, and I guess I just hope that no one forgets about the great things we have that we had even before technology, like a sunny day or a good book.
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