The song of 2010 was from a Somalian rapper named Knaan. He started to bubble in music circles in America but it wasn't really until the 2010 World Cup that his career took off. His debut album had just been released but it was his song "Wavin' Flag" that made him an international sensation. His song promoted freedom and happiness and soon became the number 1 song in a record number of countries.
This song linked to politics in that it connected many nations through music at a time when countries are meant to mingle each other the most, the World Cup. It songs like these that give hope that world peace is attainable.
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Blog Post 7: Song Nine Inch Nails, Capital G
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_1T0YibRVg
“Capital G” by Nine Inch Nails is about how greed transforms people specifically greedy politicians. This song was from the “Year Zero” album released in 2007 and the entire album criticizes the United States government’s policies, during the Bush administration and how they will affect the world in fifteen years. So if you analyze “Capital G” along with all the other songs in the album, this one song is implying that U.S. politicians are greedy and that as new candidates they come in with moral principles but as money comes into play they abandon those moral principles and ethical causes because they want more money. So “G,” according to Trent Reznor, Nine Inch Nails front man, means greed, but some people say that it is “G” for George W. Bush, which also fits.
I find the entire “Year Zero” album as an example of media convergence where the “flow of content is often believed to lead to collective creativity and community building” (Verstrate). During the release of “Year Zero” Trent Reznor’s marketing techniques involved creating an alternate reality were everyone can participate, for example behind the album is a phone number and if you dial the number it leads to the “Bureau of Morality’s” voice mail. There were also several posters posted that says “Art is Resistance, you have a voice…” In addition to that Trent Reznor also hid some USB flash drives in some concerts, intended for his unsuspecting fans to find and listen to some unreleased tracks and see some lab footage of people being tested by biological weapons used by the “Bureau of Morality.” Also in one of the Nine Inch Nails t-shirts were it shows the tour dates, some numbers were specifically highlighted and if you dial the number you hear various recorded phone calls from innocent civilians hiding from soldiers breaking into their homes and later they are found and screaming on the phone and into your ear. So Trent Reznor’s publicity stunts allowed for unsuspecting fans and people to be a part of a fictitious reality and community which is the ruined America due to the policies at the time.
“Capital G” by Nine Inch Nails is about how greed transforms people specifically greedy politicians. This song was from the “Year Zero” album released in 2007 and the entire album criticizes the United States government’s policies, during the Bush administration and how they will affect the world in fifteen years. So if you analyze “Capital G” along with all the other songs in the album, this one song is implying that U.S. politicians are greedy and that as new candidates they come in with moral principles but as money comes into play they abandon those moral principles and ethical causes because they want more money. So “G,” according to Trent Reznor, Nine Inch Nails front man, means greed, but some people say that it is “G” for George W. Bush, which also fits.
I find the entire “Year Zero” album as an example of media convergence where the “flow of content is often believed to lead to collective creativity and community building” (Verstrate). During the release of “Year Zero” Trent Reznor’s marketing techniques involved creating an alternate reality were everyone can participate, for example behind the album is a phone number and if you dial the number it leads to the “Bureau of Morality’s” voice mail. There were also several posters posted that says “Art is Resistance, you have a voice…” In addition to that Trent Reznor also hid some USB flash drives in some concerts, intended for his unsuspecting fans to find and listen to some unreleased tracks and see some lab footage of people being tested by biological weapons used by the “Bureau of Morality.” Also in one of the Nine Inch Nails t-shirts were it shows the tour dates, some numbers were specifically highlighted and if you dial the number you hear various recorded phone calls from innocent civilians hiding from soldiers breaking into their homes and later they are found and screaming on the phone and into your ear. So Trent Reznor’s publicity stunts allowed for unsuspecting fans and people to be a part of a fictitious reality and community which is the ruined America due to the policies at the time.
The Revolution Will Not Be Televised
I thought of many musical pieces with political messages but, as tends to be the case for me, I could not relate them to topics from the class. I see several great choices have already been posted. I went searching for ideas and found the following by Gil Scott-Heron. I felt it was in line with the articles we read about "The Public Sphere", "From Public Sphere to Public Screen: Democracy, Activism, and the "Violence" of Seattle", and even "The Guerrilla Girls' Comic Politics of Subversion" in the visuals. Those visuals may have been put together by someone other than Gil Scott-Heron but his words definitely guided them. With those words he contrasts and "jams" the consumerism spread by media with the idea of "real" action.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGaoXAwl9kw
P.S. Even though these blogs are usually due by 12 noon I was compelled to take advantage of the 11:59PM stated in the instructions. Thanks
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGaoXAwl9kw
P.S. Even though these blogs are usually due by 12 noon I was compelled to take advantage of the 11:59PM stated in the instructions. Thanks
Macklemore
Macklemore's song "Same Love," discusses he struggle of being homosexuals. Here is an example of his argument that same-sex couples should be able to be themselves.
And you can be cured with some treatment and religion
Man-made rewiring of a predisposition"
These lines display how politics play in people's personal life. Same-sex marriage is an issue that we have been going back and forth on for years. It was brave of Macklemore to take a stand on such a big issue and have no shame. In my opinion, he gained a lot of respect from the same-sex community and their supporters.
American Idiot by Green Day
If you are a fellow listener of 98.7 on the radio like myself, you will have heard this song a thousand times over. To be honest, it was not until fairly recently that I knew that this song carried a political statement! At the time of its release in 2004, President Bush had just been re-elected as president, and this song was a response to it. Within the song, one will find phrases such as "don't wanna be an American idiot" and "Well maybe I'm the faggot America. I'm not a part of a redneck agenda." Of course, through these lyrics Green day is talking about President Bush's conservative policies and how the nation is controlled by the new, biased media. This song entered the public sphere and took off immediately, as it won two Grammy awards and is still very popular to this day.
Political song
Bright Eyes - "When the President Talks to God"
I first heard this song when I was a teenager. I didn't know much about politics then or read into the lyrics too much, but I could tell even then it was really angst-y. Looking over the lyrics today with (slightly) better political knowledge, I can recognize more easily that it's about issues like abortion, the war with Iraq (which was a recent issue when the song was written nine or ten years ago), and foreign oil. Political cynicism is certainly evident here. Negative face is as well: Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes frontman) is clearly a liberal and was not happy with the choices Bush made during his presidency. Instead of grounding the rightness of his claims with sound evidence, Oberst attempts to discredit Bush by making a personal attack - insulting his southern drawl and his religion and calling his policy "bullshit".
I first heard this song when I was a teenager. I didn't know much about politics then or read into the lyrics too much, but I could tell even then it was really angst-y. Looking over the lyrics today with (slightly) better political knowledge, I can recognize more easily that it's about issues like abortion, the war with Iraq (which was a recent issue when the song was written nine or ten years ago), and foreign oil. Political cynicism is certainly evident here. Negative face is as well: Conor Oberst (Bright Eyes frontman) is clearly a liberal and was not happy with the choices Bush made during his presidency. Instead of grounding the rightness of his claims with sound evidence, Oberst attempts to discredit Bush by making a personal attack - insulting his southern drawl and his religion and calling his policy "bullshit".
Peruvian Coke
http://youtu.be/8sTBSKT79H8
This 'Peruvian Coke' by Immortal Technique highlights the issue with cocaine and the people it affects. As well as the corruption involved with the American government to the people who pay the price. It is a very interesting construct of the song, where everyone involved gets to speak and allow a new perspective of the illegal cocaine round.
This 'Peruvian Coke' by Immortal Technique highlights the issue with cocaine and the people it affects. As well as the corruption involved with the American government to the people who pay the price. It is a very interesting construct of the song, where everyone involved gets to speak and allow a new perspective of the illegal cocaine round.
Political parody song
The song is entitled "This Land", it is a parody of the original song depicting America with the same title. The song is very funny, and at times uses negative face to depict the politicians poorly. Here is a link for the song
http://www.jibjab.com/originals/this_land
http://www.jibjab.com/originals/this_land
Friday, May 2, 2014
Dear Mr.President by P!nk
P1nk is one of my favorite artists because she is an amazing dancer with a beautiful singer. She sings about real life situations and a great example is "Dear Mr.President". The song just speaks about how the world is so corrupt from poverty, no right to be who you are, and people struggling to live. P1nk uses this song to express and stab the President about how he can live happily when so many people are struggling to make ends meet, worrying about their loved ones out fighting, and having their homes taken away. There are so many powerful lyrics in this song that express the emotional struggle that people other than the president have to live through. "How do you sleep while the rest of us cry? How do you dream when a mother has no chance to say goodbye? How do you walk with your head held high?" The song starts off with Pink asking the president to pretend for a moment that they are equal and she continuously asks the president how he lives when people are struggling. I believe this song is 10 times better because Pink chose to have just her voice and a guitar express her feelings. No electric pop music in the background, no base, just a simple acoustic song. This song has made Pink one of the most bravest and realist singers to actually sing about real life problems other than partying, sex, and drugs.
The Times They Are a-Changin'
The Times They Are a-Changin' came out in 1964, in the midst of the civil rights movement. Bob Dylan sings in favor of the social change that is occurring, as he warns that "you better start swimming or you'll sink like a stone". He then speaks directly to the government singing, "Come senators, Congressmen- Please heed the call. Don't stand at the doorway, don't block up the hall". Lastly, he speaks to the older generation, telling them that their children's ideals are different than theirs and they should accept them, rather than trying to change them. He says, "Your old road is rapidly agin'. Please get out of the new one if you can't lend a hand. For the times they are a-changing.
Although written 50 years ago, this song is still holds meaning to the social changes that are occurring today. Although we are in a better place than back then, people are still fighting for equality and change.
http://music.xbox.com/Track/E1763E00-0100-11DB-89CA-0019B92A3933?action=play
Although written 50 years ago, this song is still holds meaning to the social changes that are occurring today. Although we are in a better place than back then, people are still fighting for equality and change.
http://music.xbox.com/Track/E1763E00-0100-11DB-89CA-0019B92A3933?action=play
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Political Music
Rage Against the Machines-Guerrilla Radio
This song is directly speaking to the public sphere, or perhaps lack there of. The minorities and political groups that have a voice are shunned when compared to the larger political interest groups. Rage Against the Machines is a band that uses political influences to write their lyrics. This song is named "Guerrilla Radio" as a reference to guerrilla warfare. This was a time when those who were cast aside and deemed unfit to fight. The "Guerrilla Radio" is a place where those underground political voices can be heard.
This song is directly speaking to the public sphere, or perhaps lack there of. The minorities and political groups that have a voice are shunned when compared to the larger political interest groups. Rage Against the Machines is a band that uses political influences to write their lyrics. This song is named "Guerrilla Radio" as a reference to guerrilla warfare. This was a time when those who were cast aside and deemed unfit to fight. The "Guerrilla Radio" is a place where those underground political voices can be heard.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Macklemore
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlVBg7_08n0
We all know that the music duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are famous for their catchy tunes and meaningful lyrics. This specific song "Same Love" declares how simple and important it is for the world to recongize and approve same sex relationships. This is a perfect example of politics within music. Macklemore took a huge very well known issue occuring in today's society and created a song preaching how ignorant the United States is being over this controversial topic. The politic fight and concept alone in this song has granted it immense attention and brought a new genre to music.
We all know that the music duo Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are famous for their catchy tunes and meaningful lyrics. This specific song "Same Love" declares how simple and important it is for the world to recongize and approve same sex relationships. This is a perfect example of politics within music. Macklemore took a huge very well known issue occuring in today's society and created a song preaching how ignorant the United States is being over this controversial topic. The politic fight and concept alone in this song has granted it immense attention and brought a new genre to music.
Sunday, April 27, 2014
kanye -new slaves
kanye west -new slaves
great hip hop song that is about slavery in todays world. some lyrics that stood out to me were
""You see it's broke nigga racism That's that "Don't touch anything in the store"
And it's rich nigga racism That's that "Come in, please buy more"
great hip hop song that is about slavery in todays world. some lyrics that stood out to me were
""You see it's broke nigga racism That's that "Don't touch anything in the store"
And it's rich nigga racism That's that "Come in, please buy more"
interesting !! check it out
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dT3swdCJrrg
Saturday, April 26, 2014
Obamacare (Amarillo, for you country fans) by Morning
Don't necessarily agree with the negative message but it's but political and funny (punny)...but I love my country music.
http://youtu.be/YR3_mM4bpCY
http://youtu.be/YR3_mM4bpCY
Music in Politics
Rap music has been known for making bold, strong songs in opposition of political practices and government institutions. One of the themes used throughout the hip hop world is the satirical delivery in the messages which is a common theme used in politics, as we have studied in class. Satires involve using humor along with irony while ridiculing the subject. In the 1990's NWA released a song entitled "F*ck the Police." The message in the song is just as strong as the title. The song criticizes police brutality in Los Angeles. Another hip hop song with a strong satirical message on politics is "Point of no Return," by the Geto Boys. The song criticizes politicians' treatment of the poor and minorities with explicit lyrics and content.
the theories i am using!!
My paper will include the ideograph theory and also the millennial reading, and the postive and negative faces, and the public sphere reference.
Friday, April 25, 2014
Marvin Gaye — “What’s Goin’ On”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-kA3UtBj4M
Mother, mother
There's too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother
There's far too many of you dying
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today - Ya
Father, father
We don't need to escalate
You see, war is not the answer
For only love can conquer hate
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today
Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me, so you can see
Oh, what's going on
What's going on
Ya, what's going on
Ah, what's going on
In the mean time
Right on, baby
Right on
Right on
Father, Father, everybody thinks we're wrong
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Simply because our hair is long
Oh, you know we've got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today
Oh
Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me
So you can see
What's going on
Ya, what's going on
Tell me what's going on
I'll tell you what's going on - Uh
Right on baby
Right on baby
Mother, mother
There's too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother
There's far too many of you dying
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today - Ya
Father, father
We don't need to escalate
You see, war is not the answer
For only love can conquer hate
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today
Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me, so you can see
Oh, what's going on
What's going on
Ya, what's going on
Ah, what's going on
In the mean time
Right on, baby
Right on
Right on
Father, Father, everybody thinks we're wrong
Oh, but who are they to judge us
Simply because our hair is long
Oh, you know we've got to find a way
To bring some understanding here today
Oh
Picket lines and picket signs
Don't punish me with brutality
Talk to me
So you can see
What's going on
Ya, what's going on
Tell me what's going on
I'll tell you what's going on - Uh
Right on baby
Right on baby
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Political Documentaries
The most recent political document/propaganda was the film Blackfish by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, discusses the issues behind marine animals in captivity and the beginnings of how Seaworld came to be.
http://blackfishmovie.com/
http://blackfishmovie.com/
Documentary must see
"They say money is the root of all evil. Well, nowhere is this more true than in US politics. The 2012 US presidential and congressional elections were the most expensive in history, costing six billion dollars.The Money Lobby examines how Political Action Committees (PACs) and Super PACs have managed to monopolize the political discourse in the US in favor of a privileged class."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3poXdCAtYxM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3poXdCAtYxM
Documentary recommendation
I have a couple to share!
Miss Representation takes somewhat of a feminist standpoint, examining the media's portrayals of women (I'm actually reconsidering doing my prospectus on this; let me know what you guys think!). It is available for streaming on netflix.
I also really like docs that focus on health, diet, etc - Food Matters and Forks over Knives are just a couple of good ones and they're available on Netflix too.
Miss Representation takes somewhat of a feminist standpoint, examining the media's portrayals of women (I'm actually reconsidering doing my prospectus on this; let me know what you guys think!). It is available for streaming on netflix.
I also really like docs that focus on health, diet, etc - Food Matters and Forks over Knives are just a couple of good ones and they're available on Netflix too.
What it means to be a powerful woman
"Miss Representation" is an intriguing documentary that explores women's role in the media and how under representation of women in positions of power.
It is on Netflix!
It is on Netflix!
Documentary
I saw the documentary The Unknown Known the other day and was very impressed. It is about former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld....I would highly recommend seeing it if you get the chance. I hope I didn't have to post about a doc available online, as I saw it on DVD.
"Our ethos is all that we currently hold to be true..."
The movie "Ethos" is also available on Netflix without the ads of the YouTube link below. Although hosted and narrated by Woody Harrelson, an activist in his own right, the video was written and directed by Pete McGrain. It takes a broad view of politics, economics, media, and more, and ultimately offers a simple course of action that we can all pursue that could improve these areas of strife in our society.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHpVA_fO2zk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHpVA_fO2zk
Documentary Post
This documentary is about the Russian and United States’ proxy war in Afghanistan during the Cold War between the late 1970s and 1980s.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU4SIuZc_Sc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QU4SIuZc_Sc
documentary
I don't watch a lot of documentaries but I watched Roger & Me by Michael Moore a few years ago and thought it was pretty interesting.
I couldn't find the full movie for free but here is a trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPNmHPjkxdk
I couldn't find the full movie for free but here is a trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPNmHPjkxdk
Friday, April 18, 2014
Political Documentary
Hey!
Here's Born Rich by Jamie Johnson of the corporation Johnson and Johnson.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xhuSxyHWRw
Enjoy.
Here's Born Rich by Jamie Johnson of the corporation Johnson and Johnson.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xhuSxyHWRw
Enjoy.
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Joe Biden's Selfie
This week we have been discussing pop culture and how it relates to politics. Obama and Biden posted a "selfie" on The White House Twitter account. Of course the photo caught everyone's attention and received many retweets and favorites. Biden also posted this on his newly created Instagram account. The media has a huge influence on politics today and definitely brings attention to the important people in our country. This allows people of every age, especially the millennial generation, to connect with our President and Vice President.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
LOOSE CHANGE
hope these links work, if y'all are interested.
http://www.free-tv-video-online.me/movies/2007/loose_change%3A_final_cut.html
http://www.free-tv-video-online.me/movies/2007/loose_change%3A_final_cut.html
Hi again!
Here are the links to the documentaries discussed in class:
Hearts and Minds
Fahrenheit 9/11
Dirty Wars (preview only - it is available on Netflix, Amazon, etc., but, like most things in life, is not free :))
Here are the links to the documentaries discussed in class:
Hearts and Minds
Fahrenheit 9/11
Dirty Wars (preview only - it is available on Netflix, Amazon, etc., but, like most things in life, is not free :))
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Hey everyone! Here's the link to the Bassem Youssef bio I tried to show in class: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/meet-the-jon-stewart-of-egypt-bassem-youssef/
What an inspiring man! Something that I missed in class: While he mostly operates in the comic frame, I find that when he breaks character and sends a direct response to his opponents he is actually using a tragic frame. For the most part, tragic frames are negative to discourse, but I think his occasional use of the tragic frame is the only option to create change within Egypt. Just my two cents! :)
What an inspiring man! Something that I missed in class: While he mostly operates in the comic frame, I find that when he breaks character and sends a direct response to his opponents he is actually using a tragic frame. For the most part, tragic frames are negative to discourse, but I think his occasional use of the tragic frame is the only option to create change within Egypt. Just my two cents! :)
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Final Paper theories
I am going to write about STFU Conservative's picture "Still Not Asking For It" and relate it to ideograph and public sphere/ public screen
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Theories For Final Paper
I am using the anti-bullying cause I referred to you earlier, and I am going to examine it using invitational rhetoric and public spheres as my main concepts.
World class blogger
House of cards to the tragic frame or political cynicism, most likely the tragic frame
blog post 4/12
The political artifact I will
discuss for my topic is artist Bansky and his artwork in opposition of
government practices, politics, and institutions. I will use to theories from
class to discuss this. First I will focus on how Bansky impacts the millennials.
As we discusses in class this group is vital to campaigns and candidates.
Secondly, I will connect it to juxtaposition from the Guerrilla girls reading.
Theories for Paper
For my paper I will be incorporating the theories of Foss and Griffin's "Invitational Rhetoric" and Habermas "Public Sphere" I will be touching on how the media shapes campaigns as well.
Possible End of Several Judicial Ideographs
In a recent article on the news anthology website "The Week" entitled "The death of the presumption of innocence" by Andrew Cohen some current practices in the process of voir dire (jury selection) are examined. Mainly he points out what may be called "rehabilitating" a prospective juror that has expressed a bias. This involves discovering such a bias, often through direct admission by the prospective juror, then continuing to pose questions that illicit "commitments" from the prospect to be open minded in the light of their admitted bias. In a class I currently attend at CSUN the process of voir dire and jury dynamics are discussed and the idea that a human being can be impartial despite a preexisting bias is seen as nearly impossible, yet this article points out how our judicial system is being allowed to lapse into just such a false assumption. Cohen sees this as a dereliction of duty by judges and a shortcoming of a judicial system that requires an unbiased jury but struggles with the practical demands of filing such juries with persons that may not want to serve and/or have been influenced by pervasive media coverage of the crime or similar events. He notes several instances through the years that have benefited either prosecutor or defendant but have not upheld the standards of justice that our Constitution demands. These practices may make impotent several ideographs that are at the heart of the American judicial system, namely "impartial jury" and "innocent until proven guilty".
theories for paper
I am going to incorporate the following articles into my paper, "the Public Sphere", "From the public screen to the public sphere", and "Political Culture Jamming"...
Paper Topic
My paper topic will be about applying Kenneth Burke’s article, “Dramatism,” in the rhetorical analysis of the Israeli and Palestinian peace talks, specifically about how Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Secretary of State John Kerry’s warning of losing business and using Kerry as a scapegoat in making Israel look bad.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Corporation as an Ideograph
Oh my, here it is Sunday already. How time flies when you don't have class schedules to measure it. Although I have been musing over the subject material for my paper I have only touched on how to relate it to class readings and discussions. Having reread the paper entitled "THE "IDEOGRAPH"; A LINK BETWEEN RHETORIC AND IDEOLOGY" I do see some possibilities of linkage. Mostly I hope to write a paper that focuses, first on the artifact "The Corporation", the video, and second on the history and current pervasive influence of what that business model has became. To that end I would say that the very word corporation has become an ideograph that bespeaks of economic, political, and social power rather than a set of laws and guidelines that make up such a business model. Further, it has become the only "legitimate" business model in our modern world. Quite something considering its humble beginnings as a publicly sanctioned, limited duration, charter to finance and facilitate specific public projects.
Saturday, April 5, 2014
paper
I will discuss the Governor Christie scandal and relate it to our reading on scapegoating, and well as the reading on how the media shapes political campaigns.
Viral Math HW
I bookmarked an article I had read last week that I thought would be interesting to blog about. A parent, who has a"Bachelor of Science Degree in Electronics Engineering, which included extensive study in differential equations and other higher math applications," responded to the difficult method that his/her kid was taught to solve a simple math problem. The assignment instructed students to explain how to use a number line to show a fictional character how to subtract 427-316. The parent answered the homework question and explaining how much easier is to subtract another way.
This Facebook post went viral as it created a discussion on whether the math strategies being taught have real world application. This ties into both the public and political sphere. Education is a very controversial subject because a lot of the debate has to do with funding, or lack thereof, and the budgets allocated to impoverished neighborhoods. The virility of the posts goes to show how important the internet can be in spreading awareness about public issues.
This Facebook post went viral as it created a discussion on whether the math strategies being taught have real world application. This ties into both the public and political sphere. Education is a very controversial subject because a lot of the debate has to do with funding, or lack thereof, and the budgets allocated to impoverished neighborhoods. The virility of the posts goes to show how important the internet can be in spreading awareness about public issues.
possible topics/theories
Michelle Obama's introduction of the Let's Move campaign in 2010 - connecting to "The Ideograph", Invitational rhetoric and/or a few concepts from "How the Media Shapes Political Campaigns"
House of Cards and how representations of minority groups (women, African Americans, Asians, and Middle Easterns) reflect somewhat traditional media portrayals of these groups and contribute to society's already-held assumptions about these groups. Readings/theories - "Ideograph" and Burke's "Dramatism".. possibly the Public Sphere
Adbusters' "Buy Nothing Day" campaign - the public sphere; Invitational rhetoric
House of Cards and how representations of minority groups (women, African Americans, Asians, and Middle Easterns) reflect somewhat traditional media portrayals of these groups and contribute to society's already-held assumptions about these groups. Readings/theories - "Ideograph" and Burke's "Dramatism".. possibly the Public Sphere
Adbusters' "Buy Nothing Day" campaign - the public sphere; Invitational rhetoric
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Research topics
My first topic I am considering is president obama's state of the union address.
The second would be the controversy of the millennial generation.
The third topic would be the cultural jamming of the perfect body.
The second would be the controversy of the millennial generation.
The third topic would be the cultural jamming of the perfect body.
Paper Topics
House of Cards: A Political Analysis
Israel and the Middle East
The Presidency: How it's changed
Media and political rhetoric in war, politics, and economics
My tastes in video range from absolute escapist fantasy, through provocative depictions of often overlooked "facts", to actual recordings of events and/or history. With that said I feel strongly about three documentary/viewpoint videos I have recently seen concerning war, politics, and economics. These include "No End In Sight" and "Inside Job" by writer/director Charles Ferguson and "The Corporation" written by University of British Columbia law professor Joel Bakan, and directed by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott. Many similarities can be gleaned from these films relating to popular media and political rhetoric. I hope to relate one or all to concepts that appear in class readings or discussions but I am unclear at this time of exact links. I will continue along these lines to develop a thesis that meets the suggested guidelines and allows me to add to a discussion of these important forces in our world today.
BLOG POST
In the essay about the Guerrilla Girls, Demo discusses three
rhetorical strategies the group uses.
One of the strategies used was strategic juxtaposition. As stated in the essay, “groups use
juxtaposition to remoralize the social order by “placing conflicting
commitments of the system side by side.”
I fount this to be very interesting and I came across an article which
used this strategy in a different form from the Guerilla Girls group. While the group relied on opposing
pictures and statements, Alison Grimes used the “stark juxtaposition in age” to
boost her campaign. Grimes, 35-year-old
women ran against Senator McConnell and referred to home as the “senator of
yesterday. While many people
consider her to be young and inexperienced, she used this to her advantage, by
strategically inserting the contrast into her campaign. I for one buy into the
“senator of yesterday. “ I
believed the younger candidate would bee more in touch with the current needs
and wants of voters.
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2014/03/24/grimes_pegs_mcconnell_as_senator_of_yesterday_122033.html
Research Paper topics
My first topic I am thinking of discussing is how the media adds to the political talk, how websites like The Onion and Huffington Post can change our minds and bring up new ideas the public would not otherwise notice.
The second topic I am thinking of discussing is millennials and their view towards politics. for example not as many millennial go to church and are politically "independent"
The third topic I may write about is the relationship between political leaders and the public. Analyzing rhetoric used to constantly get us to like them or not believe a scandal they are involved in.
The second topic I am thinking of discussing is millennials and their view towards politics. for example not as many millennial go to church and are politically "independent"
The third topic I may write about is the relationship between political leaders and the public. Analyzing rhetoric used to constantly get us to like them or not believe a scandal they are involved in.
Paper Topic Choices
Idea 1: How progressive shows like Modern family/Breaking Bad reflect the ideals of the millennial generation...or something to that affect
Idea 2: The effect of viral videos online in the public sphere and how they positively and negatively can change the outcomes/momentum of a campaign. Maybe focusing on Obama's first run for candidacy
The readings that stuck with me the most are the public sphere, millennial generation, and maybe the recent one on race/minstrelsy. Not sold on any one topic thus far though.
Idea 2: The effect of viral videos online in the public sphere and how they positively and negatively can change the outcomes/momentum of a campaign. Maybe focusing on Obama's first run for candidacy
The readings that stuck with me the most are the public sphere, millennial generation, and maybe the recent one on race/minstrelsy. Not sold on any one topic thus far though.
Paper Topic Ideas
1) Relating Stephen Heidt’s article “The Presidency as Pastiche: Atomization, Circulation, and Rhetorical Instability” and the idea of fragmentation with when President Barack Obama mentioned in his early year in office that he was going to be in office for one-term.
2) Using McGee’s article about ideography and relating that to President Barack Obama’s 2014 State of the Union address.
3) Analyzing Secretary of State John Kerry’s statement to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and seeing how Netanyahu reacted negatively to it and using Kerry as a scapegoat and referring to Kenneth Burk’s article, “Dramatism.”
2) Using McGee’s article about ideography and relating that to President Barack Obama’s 2014 State of the Union address.
3) Analyzing Secretary of State John Kerry’s statement to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and seeing how Netanyahu reacted negatively to it and using Kerry as a scapegoat and referring to Kenneth Burk’s article, “Dramatism.”
Paper Ideas
1. The Hunger Games Catching Fire and how the media shapes our perception of what is happening
2. STFU Conservatives picture of "Im still not asking for it" and how it is more effective than the barbie museum protest.
3. Ride Along and the corruption of the police and government system
2. STFU Conservatives picture of "Im still not asking for it" and how it is more effective than the barbie museum protest.
3. Ride Along and the corruption of the police and government system
possible topics
I'm not entirely sure what I want to write do my paper on but I was thinking about...
-how racism is still not a thing in the past and how it is still around today
-how equality for women does not exist
-how mass media is affecting a child's mental and psychical health more than ever today
-how racism is still not a thing in the past and how it is still around today
-how equality for women does not exist
-how mass media is affecting a child's mental and psychical health more than ever today
paper topic
I'm still not entirely sure what I would like to talk about for my paper, but possible topics that are interesting:
1. Linking media to how people are more aware of what is going on in politics
2. Recent President Obama's interviews with people who are less in the political eye and how this effects his presidency.
3. Advertisements and commercials breaking out and raising awareness to certain situations such as gay marriage, etc.
Still need to think more about topics and how to relate to a theory, but these choices have been on my mind.
1. Linking media to how people are more aware of what is going on in politics
2. Recent President Obama's interviews with people who are less in the political eye and how this effects his presidency.
3. Advertisements and commercials breaking out and raising awareness to certain situations such as gay marriage, etc.
Still need to think more about topics and how to relate to a theory, but these choices have been on my mind.
Friday, March 28, 2014
Paper topic
Paper topic
The two I'm mulling over is, first, linking Occupy to invitational rhetoric and, second, making the link that shows like House of Cards are ruining politics. In specific, ruining the ideals of the millenial generation. I want to link it to Cultivation theory and mean world syndrome.
I'm liking the second idea more...any thoughts?
The two I'm mulling over is, first, linking Occupy to invitational rhetoric and, second, making the link that shows like House of Cards are ruining politics. In specific, ruining the ideals of the millenial generation. I want to link it to Cultivation theory and mean world syndrome.
I'm liking the second idea more...any thoughts?
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Paper Topic
Armenian Genocide (1915) and Syria's Genocide (Now)
Still thinking about other possible topics...
Still thinking about other possible topics...
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Gloria Steinem
Today is the birthday of women's rights activist Gloria Steinem. In her early professional years she found herself writing for a newspaper with assignments focused on women...types of stockings, makeup, or babies. In this video I watched, which I will include, she made it kind of clear that her boss saw her as someone who would go to a hotel with him during lunch or merely as someone who would do his secretarial work. It wasn't until she was given an assignment to cover an abortion trial that she realized she needed to create change. She stated that women need a revolution rather than reform, something that rhetoric plays perfectly in to.
Once the women's movement was well on its way her and a few followers decided to create a magazine. They titled the magazine "Ms." and it took off brilliantly, selling out in the first week. She mentioned, in the video, that these injustices towards women are so great that if they were just explained to people..they would get respect and understanding. It might be a stretch but I felt a sense of invitational rhetoric in her words. She knew there needed to be a revolution but she wanted to do it through people willingly siding with her and the movement rather than using certain gimmicks of rhetoric to force them on her side.
Once the women's movement was well on its way her and a few followers decided to create a magazine. They titled the magazine "Ms." and it took off brilliantly, selling out in the first week. She mentioned, in the video, that these injustices towards women are so great that if they were just explained to people..they would get respect and understanding. It might be a stretch but I felt a sense of invitational rhetoric in her words. She knew there needed to be a revolution but she wanted to do it through people willingly siding with her and the movement rather than using certain gimmicks of rhetoric to force them on her side.
Justice is served.... but it took 32 years.
A 74 year old women is released from prison for a crime she did not do. Mary Virginia Jones spent 32 years in prison for a crime her past boyfriend committed. The Post-Convicted Justice Project picked up the case At USC college and won for the justice of Ms. Jones. The case was defeated because Ms. Jones was involved in the murder because she was held against her will. She did not commit the murders, her ex boyfriend did which the USC participants were able to prove.
I personally have mixed emotions about this story. I'm deeply disturbed that Ms. Jones spent three decades of her life missing out on the beauties in life. We only live once. I also am annoyed with once again how the media is presenting this case. I do see the positive that justice is served but it did take 32 years for that to happen. What about the hundreds if not thousands of people without fancy lawyers that are serving time for something they did not commit.
I personally have mixed emotions about this story. I'm deeply disturbed that Ms. Jones spent three decades of her life missing out on the beauties in life. We only live once. I also am annoyed with once again how the media is presenting this case. I do see the positive that justice is served but it did take 32 years for that to happen. What about the hundreds if not thousands of people without fancy lawyers that are serving time for something they did not commit.
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Young Voters
We have continuely discussed the relation that the younger generation has with politics as well as engaging with the public sphere of news. While we have not truly focused on the younger generation and our government, I think that this article truly exempflies the power that our younger generation has on our future. The article dicusses the importance and the intensity of the milliena generation and their ability to change the way our governement is ran. What makes younger voters so crucial to voting is that they are the target audience for campaining as well as the younger voters have the desire to vote. They milliena masses are not jaded by politics nor are skeptic to what is presented before them. The media and the public sphere aids itself towards us, it is shaped to invoke reaction as well as desire within ourselves.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2014/03/21/young-voters-would-be-key-in-a-hillary-clinton-presidential-race-but-can-she-win-them-over/
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2014/03/21/young-voters-would-be-key-in-a-hillary-clinton-presidential-race-but-can-she-win-them-over/
The search for flight 370
Now about three weeks ago a Malaysian airplane with around 200 passengers disappeared. This plane held passengers from 13 countries including 3 Americans. The search has been progressing but with no leads, until now. The Chinese government in partnership with NASA has no gotten involved. CNN posted a story about a Chinese satellite that found an image of a floating object about 22 meters in length, floating in the southern part of the Indian Ocean. The plane disappeared because it had no radar and apparently all communications were down. Conspiracies about the flight being defective and the pilots planning this landing have been circling the media since the search began. This is another event, like 9/11, that has now made people afraid of flying. The truth about the plane is still a mystery as concrete evidence still has not been found.
I want to connect this article to the writings of Habermas and the "public sphere". The Public sphere is a place where people can have a discussion without the involvement of biases or media persuasion. Does such a place exist? I think it does. Over the course of this search for the missing flight people have been all over the internet posting comments, articles and theories of what happened to the missing plane. Although the internet is a powerful form of persuasion, it is also a great place to start discussions. People have the freedom to discuss their theories from their own assumptions and beliefs because no major news organizations have posted any conspiracies. People have the ability to discuss what they want, free from biases and media persuasion. This is a perfect example of the public sphere.
I want to connect this article to the writings of Habermas and the "public sphere". The Public sphere is a place where people can have a discussion without the involvement of biases or media persuasion. Does such a place exist? I think it does. Over the course of this search for the missing flight people have been all over the internet posting comments, articles and theories of what happened to the missing plane. Although the internet is a powerful form of persuasion, it is also a great place to start discussions. People have the freedom to discuss their theories from their own assumptions and beliefs because no major news organizations have posted any conspiracies. People have the ability to discuss what they want, free from biases and media persuasion. This is a perfect example of the public sphere.
Michigan strikes down gay marriage ban
A Michigan judge struck down the state law banning gay marriage yesterday in response to complaints made by this couple claiming that the law violated their rights under the U.S. Constitution. The aforementioned couple, two nurses from the Detroit area, participated in Michigan's first same-sex marriage ceremony after the ban was lifted.
This story made me think back to the article we discussed about George W. Bush's connection with the LGBTQ community during the 2000 election. Things have come so far for this community since then and numbers of self-identifying members have surely grown - so what are politicians (particularly Republicans) doing today to ensure they make those same connections to this community? What will the 2016 election bring forth for this community?
This story made me think back to the article we discussed about George W. Bush's connection with the LGBTQ community during the 2000 election. Things have come so far for this community since then and numbers of self-identifying members have surely grown - so what are politicians (particularly Republicans) doing today to ensure they make those same connections to this community? What will the 2016 election bring forth for this community?
Minstrel Obama
The title of the blog may be misleading but as I looked for articles to write about, I stumbled across a few political cartoons. I scanned over a couple of them and noticed that the features that are exaggerated on Obama seem to make him look and seem more monkey like. This is problematic because blacks/African-Americans have been compared and likened to apes negatively for hundred of years. It leads me to wonder if these type of blatant exaggerations are done purposefully.
This relates loosely to minstrelsy. It may not be black face but it falls between the depiction of the brute and a Sambo. A sambo was always depicted as dumb, subservient, and as having very pronounced features. I know that these political cartoons/propaganda pieces are to serve as humorous takes on certain political issues but I wonder if anyone takes offense to some of the way minority groups are depicted in these drawings.
This relates loosely to minstrelsy. It may not be black face but it falls between the depiction of the brute and a Sambo. A sambo was always depicted as dumb, subservient, and as having very pronounced features. I know that these political cartoons/propaganda pieces are to serve as humorous takes on certain political issues but I wonder if anyone takes offense to some of the way minority groups are depicted in these drawings.
And Minstelsy for All
The picture below is of a billboard I recently viewed in a different light. I have been told that the "screen names" of the radio personalities shown are from left to right essentially, "the good", "the bad", and "the ugly". I was told by a co-worker who is of Latin decent that the radio program advertised is cartoonish in its depiction of Latino archetypes and that some are embarrassed by it.
Although the recent reading entitled "Minstrel Politics Or "He Speaks Too Well:" Rhetoric, Race, And Resistance In The 2008 Presidential Campaign" is ultimately about how a legacy of minstrelsy is displayed in current politics I found it most interesting in how the same is displayed in popular culture. The pictured advertisement, and other cultural displays, show an example of a Latino equivalent to the Black minstrelsy described in the article and how it too survives today.
Although the recent reading entitled "Minstrel Politics Or "He Speaks Too Well:" Rhetoric, Race, And Resistance In The 2008 Presidential Campaign" is ultimately about how a legacy of minstrelsy is displayed in current politics I found it most interesting in how the same is displayed in popular culture. The pictured advertisement, and other cultural displays, show an example of a Latino equivalent to the Black minstrelsy described in the article and how it too survives today.
Step in the Right Direction
CNN reported that a federal judge overturned a ruling on Michigan's ban of same-sex message and other statutory laws. The federal judge ruled that the state officials "had lost sight of what the case was really about...people." The case was help overturned by a couple that were fighting for the rights to raise their children. The judge proceeded to say that the decision made was a step in the right direction would it came to affirming the equal rights of all peoples.
This story relates to the article by Jeffrey A. Wilson named the "Republican Rhetoric of Identification." Here the article proceeds to talk about the huge influence that gay/lesbian voters had on elections, specifically George W. Bush. It is needless to say that the state of Michigan was stuck in time by not allowing the rights of gay/lesbians. It is undeniably the future that the community will have just as equal rights as their heterosexual counterparts. The article reminded me that there is an upcoming election, just around the corner and this issue about equal rights for the gay and lesbian community will be a huge factor for all candidate on how they handle certain issues that will be brought up. I see that the overturn of Michigan's ruling is a good sign that change will continue to come across all states for equal rights of all.
This story relates to the article by Jeffrey A. Wilson named the "Republican Rhetoric of Identification." Here the article proceeds to talk about the huge influence that gay/lesbian voters had on elections, specifically George W. Bush. It is needless to say that the state of Michigan was stuck in time by not allowing the rights of gay/lesbians. It is undeniably the future that the community will have just as equal rights as their heterosexual counterparts. The article reminded me that there is an upcoming election, just around the corner and this issue about equal rights for the gay and lesbian community will be a huge factor for all candidate on how they handle certain issues that will be brought up. I see that the overturn of Michigan's ruling is a good sign that change will continue to come across all states for equal rights of all.
Coordination between reporters and politicans
In an article from CBS Philadelphia reporter Chris Stigall talked to former CBS news reporter Sharyl Attkisson on the trouble reporters have to deal with while covering politicians and the government. The story essentially discussed how most of the questions being asked at the White House press briefing are prescreened and deliberately chosen ahead of time. The article also states how it is more and more difficult for reporters to get controversial stories on air because of the "trouble" it may cause.
This article caught my attention as a result of attending the talk by Dr. Dan Reitter. Last week Reitter discussed the importance of having a press that doesn't blindly follow politicians and White House administration. Reitter suggested that the press needs to always question politicians, and this article claims quite the contrary is actually occurring.
This article caught my attention as a result of attending the talk by Dr. Dan Reitter. Last week Reitter discussed the importance of having a press that doesn't blindly follow politicians and White House administration. Reitter suggested that the press needs to always question politicians, and this article claims quite the contrary is actually occurring.
Annexation of Crimea
So if you have not been following the Ukraine crisis, it has taken an even stranger turn. Earlier this week the Crimea region voted to become part of the Russian Federation, this was a "free" and "democratic" election. I use quotes because how free and democratic can an election be if there are armed Russian security forces at the polling stations. The United States has responded by basically cutting off key Russian Banks from doing business with the United States, which needless to say hurts their business. One of the more interesting things i have seen is that FOX news, which normally is extremely critical of President Obama, has not been so during this crisis. I think it highlights that although their political views sharply contrast on domestic issues, when given a common enemy our elected representatives can actually get something done.
Blog Post 6: Selfie in Politics
The selfie, which is a self photograph of someone either
alone or with others, is a modern trend where everyone is doing it, even
politicians. In a recent article, it
mentions broadly about the “politics” of selfies and that it is used not only
to share with friends and viewers what one is currently doing, but it shows
that by politicians doing it as well, it gives them credibility. Politicians taking selfies are making
themselves relatable to the common people, which is an advantage to them. By taking selfies, politicians are reminding
the people and the world that they are still humans that like to have fun and
fool around despite current events.
There are some disadvantages to selfies as well, because some
politicians have posted selfies that caused them to be criticized and because
of the negative impression of some selfies, some politicians were unable to
participate in some events, like having the opportunity to address an audience
for some rallies.
I found this topic related to “Minstrel Politics or “He
Speaks Too Well:” Rhetoric, Race, and Resistance in the 2008 Presidential
Campaign,” by Anthony Sparks because he mentions that “Television’s role in
popular culture is complex, of course, but in addition to building cultural
narratives, it also visualizes certain narratives that already exist”
(28). Selfies function in the same way
because the pictures that the people take do form cultural narratives and it is
up to the viewers to interpret the pictures and define what cultural narratives
they see. Depending on how the viewers
see the selfies as, determines if there is going to be a positive or negative
connection between the viewer and the one that took the picture. A picture is worth a thousand words and a
selfie is a good example for that saying because a seemingly innocent picture
of politicians together can be read in so many ways where the audience might
take it the wrong way. Also another down
side to selfies is that since anyone can interpret the pictures to whatever way
they want to see them as, the opposing party or competition can turn that
against the one they are competing against.
Blog #8
With almost three weeks of the disappearance of the Malaysian airline flight 370, it is weird that no reports or findings of the plane have been discovered. The article talks about how the hard drive from the simulator within the pilots house was taken and under investigation and how things were deleted from it starting on February 3. The article also discusses how the U.S. had received profiles of the two pilots from family and friends and neighbors that was given to them by Malaysian investigators. The U.S. is concerned being that it took Malaysian authorities six days to go and search the homes of the two pilots.
I definitely believe that there are some missing strings to this yarn of bull***t. Being that how can authorities wait so long for the search of their homes and two why doesn't Malaysian officials or U.S. officials for that fact hire a team of hackers to recover the deleted items on the hard drive. I totally think on the Malaysian officials are covering something up. The are leaving the public sphere to be blind, including the U.S. authorities who have spent tons of money helping with the investigation. Meaning why are there no answers to anything, everything seems to just not add up properly. I am even more certain that Malaysian officials are even more involved within the disappearance.
I definitely believe that there are some missing strings to this yarn of bull***t. Being that how can authorities wait so long for the search of their homes and two why doesn't Malaysian officials or U.S. officials for that fact hire a team of hackers to recover the deleted items on the hard drive. I totally think on the Malaysian officials are covering something up. The are leaving the public sphere to be blind, including the U.S. authorities who have spent tons of money helping with the investigation. Meaning why are there no answers to anything, everything seems to just not add up properly. I am even more certain that Malaysian officials are even more involved within the disappearance.
Obama on Ellen
Recently, President Obama has been appearing in many interviews that reach certain audiences. His appearance on Zach Galifianakis' show, his phone interview with Ryan Seacrest on his radio show, and this past week he appeared in a video interview with Ellen Degeneres on her daytime talk show. Although I did not watch the full interview, Ellen posted a few of the important clips on her Youtube channel with President Obama. Ellen took the advantage of having the President on video to ask him about Obama care. He informed the audience the importance of health insurance and how important it was to sign up before the deadline. During the interview, Ellen being the comedian she is kept the interview very fun and President Obama cracked some of his own jokes too.
President Obama appearing in these interviews are very important especially right now as the Obama Care sign up deadline is quickly approaching. I believe President Obama is appearing in these interviews aiming towards a certain audience because he knows that it is the best way to inform the younger audience the importance of health care. Zach Galifianakis, Ryan Seacrest, and Ellen Degeneres all reach the younger audience of teenagers and young adults. Coincidentally, these are also the most important people to be reached out about the health care and this is Obama's way of successfully getting young adults to signup. I bring up this idea of President Obama appearing in these interviews as they are linked to the reading of politics in the media. The reading mentions how the television, radio, and internet are now the most used technology of media to be used by a wide spread of people. Young adults normally do not read the daily paper or pick up Times magazine so President Obama had to reach the young adults in a more successful and relatable way. Each interview he has had he never fails to mention the importance of health care and the importance of signing up. President Obama has since been very successful and now has over 5 million people signed up for the health care.
President Obama appearing in these interviews are very important especially right now as the Obama Care sign up deadline is quickly approaching. I believe President Obama is appearing in these interviews aiming towards a certain audience because he knows that it is the best way to inform the younger audience the importance of health care. Zach Galifianakis, Ryan Seacrest, and Ellen Degeneres all reach the younger audience of teenagers and young adults. Coincidentally, these are also the most important people to be reached out about the health care and this is Obama's way of successfully getting young adults to signup. I bring up this idea of President Obama appearing in these interviews as they are linked to the reading of politics in the media. The reading mentions how the television, radio, and internet are now the most used technology of media to be used by a wide spread of people. Young adults normally do not read the daily paper or pick up Times magazine so President Obama had to reach the young adults in a more successful and relatable way. Each interview he has had he never fails to mention the importance of health care and the importance of signing up. President Obama has since been very successful and now has over 5 million people signed up for the health care.
Friday, March 21, 2014
Hillary and the Millennial Vote
CNN released an article stating that in order to win the
2016 election, Hillary Clinton will need the vote of young people. Although she lost the younger generation’s
vote when she ran in 2008, the article states that she has a good chance of winning
it this time around since she won’t have such stiff competition again. The article also states that she will benefit from the fact that young people tend
to lean more towards the left due to their stance on things like abortion,
gay marriage and immigration.
This article can clearly be related to our reading on the
millennials. Hillary seems to be making
more of an effort to attract this generation by visiting college campuses,
as well as by having a strong presence on twitter. Her change in position regarding gay marriage
can also be seen as an effort to gain support from millennials. The only concern the article seems to state
is the fact that millennials might be more prompted to vote for a candidate who
is closer to their own age. That said,
according to CNN, this might not be a problem considering a recent survey came
back proving that most young people believe that Hillary is younger than she truly
is.
I still blame aliens
I was watching the news the other day and I noticed a familiar face, Bill Nye the science guy! First thing I thought, are they STILL talking about the debate between Ham and himself? Much to my surprise, they had asked Nye to come on live tv and comment on his thoughts about the missing plane...WHY NOT?! He was very humble about the offer, thanking them for the chance but admitting that his guesses were probably the same as most people, that it is probably in the ocean somewhere. His only suggestion was that we should be checking the ocean for the "beeping" noise the plane will be giving off in the case of a crash. As we are already doing this, we being the people who can do this kind of work (something he says to not give himself credit for the work), I don't feel like his interview was necessary. It is clear they are running out of ideas on how to continue this story but since it is a hot topic no news source wants to drop it.
For me, this links perfectly to a mix of positive/negative face and a little bit about what Jamieson was talking about. First, positive face. I believe Nye definitely built himself up here by kind of making a little crack at the idea of being invited to comment on this issue...even with his background on planes. In addition, he clearly doesn't try and give himself credit for doing any of the work, a clarification when he constantly says "we" which, to me, shows that he appreciates the work being done and doesn't think he should be the focus. Next, in the article by Jamieson she riticuled one of Obama's speeches by saying he should not have done it at all. This, to me, links perfectly to Nye's interview. Although it is true that we all love seeing Bill Nye the science guy on tv but there is not reason why he should have done that interview, a waste of time in my opinion. It was fun to watch but I believe they could have found someone more qualified to make more qualitative statements about the issue.
For me, this links perfectly to a mix of positive/negative face and a little bit about what Jamieson was talking about. First, positive face. I believe Nye definitely built himself up here by kind of making a little crack at the idea of being invited to comment on this issue...even with his background on planes. In addition, he clearly doesn't try and give himself credit for doing any of the work, a clarification when he constantly says "we" which, to me, shows that he appreciates the work being done and doesn't think he should be the focus. Next, in the article by Jamieson she riticuled one of Obama's speeches by saying he should not have done it at all. This, to me, links perfectly to Nye's interview. Although it is true that we all love seeing Bill Nye the science guy on tv but there is not reason why he should have done that interview, a waste of time in my opinion. It was fun to watch but I believe they could have found someone more qualified to make more qualitative statements about the issue.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
What the F*%^ has Obama done so far.
This is a great website that highlights what Obama has done so far :).
http://whatthefuckhasobamadonesofar.com/
p.s. No blog post since I am presenting!
http://whatthefuckhasobamadonesofar.com/
p.s. No blog post since I am presenting!
Obama
This week, Ellen Degeneres phoned Obama on her show. She asked him various questions for his wife Michelle, such as "did you go to the gym and have you eaten." These are everyday questions that can be asked to anyone. Obama answered with a "yes," but giggled after words. He was very conversational with Ellen and the audience, making the call more personal.
I related this to the article we read this week, "The Republic Rhetoric of Identification." In this article, author Nelson explains how important it is for Presidents to identify with society. Obama is answering personal questions on television, which we all can relate to. We feel more comfortable with Obama when we can relate to him.
I related this to the article we read this week, "The Republic Rhetoric of Identification." In this article, author Nelson explains how important it is for Presidents to identify with society. Obama is answering personal questions on television, which we all can relate to. We feel more comfortable with Obama when we can relate to him.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
IRS Taxes
It's tax season! April 15th is around the corner, so naturally many are getting their taxes done before the deadline. Fox put out an article titled "IRS: $760M owed to people who didn't file for 2010". I appreciate the little warning from Fox, but don't you think the IRS should send out a letter to individuals? At the end of the article Fox states the unclaimed taxes will go to "Uncle Sam", well who the heck is Uncle Sam?
Many left comments about this article, stating uncle sam is Obama. Lots of confusion here: I'm sure they mean the government. I highly doubt Obama sees any of that money. This relates in many fields of our class, misrepresentation from media, how people view the government, and Obama.
Many left comments about this article, stating uncle sam is Obama. Lots of confusion here: I'm sure they mean the government. I highly doubt Obama sees any of that money. This relates in many fields of our class, misrepresentation from media, how people view the government, and Obama.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
First Lady Furthers Health Initiatives
It is always refreshing to see politicians interested in nutrition and the obesity epidemic in the US, as this issue often gets skirted by many other things. Within the last week, Michelle Obama partnered with Dannon and DelMonte--both large food corporations whose target demographic is children. This partnership ensures that said companies will reduce their levels of sugar and saturated fats within their products.
These are two of several partnerships that have formed with the Health for America movement. A recent CDC report has also shown that child obesity reports have fallen forty three percent within the last few years, for which Michelle Obama claims she is grateful to have been a part of.
This topic is consistent with the idea of the public sphere and spreading awareness about the changes that need to be made and how said changes can be made possible. Partnerships such as this are definitely a step in the right direction.
These are two of several partnerships that have formed with the Health for America movement. A recent CDC report has also shown that child obesity reports have fallen forty three percent within the last few years, for which Michelle Obama claims she is grateful to have been a part of.
This topic is consistent with the idea of the public sphere and spreading awareness about the changes that need to be made and how said changes can be made possible. Partnerships such as this are definitely a step in the right direction.
Pope Francis new changes
When I hear the term Pope, I automatically think of a grey haired old man who stays within the walls of the Vatican and preaches the old words to those that are still willing to listen. I know that catholic religion is spreading throughout the world, however it has never been something to catch my interest, until now. Watching several reports on the new pope has led me to believe that this new Pope Francis can lead the church out of the closed doors of the Vatican and stop them from being "Obsessed with small minded rules" that have led to culture wars of abortion and gay rights. He is unlike any other pope the world has seen. Many popes before have claimed to want to be a hands on man with the people but Pope Francis has actually taken charge and gone out to meet the people face to face. In his interview the pope states, "I prefer a church of which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security." I believe Pope Francis came into his role believing that it was time for the church to see a change and he is evident in making it happen. I believe he understands the point of view of the modern world and understands that in order to keep the Catholic faith alive he must unite the people with the church. In order to do that he must address issue that do not solely pertain to the church but appeal to the people as well; after all, that is the role of a leader and Pope Francis is a leader and will continue to bring social change to the Catholic Church.
Missing Plane
As we have been talking about in class, a plane from Malaysia Airlines went missing. The plan was on its way to Beijing when it disappeared from the radar. News stories have been suggesting multiple explanations for the missing plane.
Since we have been talking about the media in class, I noticed how the majority of news stories frame the missing plane incident. Most articles immediately blame the disappearance on terrorist, which does not surprise me at all. Media, especially news, wants to publicize the most appealing piece, so they frame the story by talking about terrorists.
Since we have been talking about the media in class, I noticed how the majority of news stories frame the missing plane incident. Most articles immediately blame the disappearance on terrorist, which does not surprise me at all. Media, especially news, wants to publicize the most appealing piece, so they frame the story by talking about terrorists.
Russia is a threat.....again
The crisis in Ukraine has mounted to a national scale. Russia recently posted its troops in offensive positions outside of the Crimean. The Ukranian troops were forced to take defensive positions. Because the U.S. has ties with Russia and Ukraine, we are forced to intervene. The United States have a niche for playing the "world police" whenever something bad happens. This ploy of force and power shows America that, for the first time in a long time, Russia poses a threat.
In accordance with the public sphere and the public screen, the crisis in Ukraine was first brought to our attention when violent images and footage from Ukraine was first played on the news. The crisis with the Ukranian government has been happening for quite some time, but in America, we didn't know until the protests were shown on the news.
Bad news sells more. It creates more publicity and gathers more attention. When violence is brought into the situation, people seem to watch and listen more often, This makes us and people more thankful that we don't have that kind of crisis in our country.
In accordance with the public sphere and the public screen, the crisis in Ukraine was first brought to our attention when violent images and footage from Ukraine was first played on the news. The crisis with the Ukranian government has been happening for quite some time, but in America, we didn't know until the protests were shown on the news.
Bad news sells more. It creates more publicity and gathers more attention. When violence is brought into the situation, people seem to watch and listen more often, This makes us and people more thankful that we don't have that kind of crisis in our country.
BLOG 6: DEPOrtation
In our society, there is a point of acceptance immigration. This involves cash flow (for economy),
population, laws, and politics. It is not a question to investigate immigration, but rather a solution. The U.S
has been a country for immigration, and it is provides many groups that are third generation now, and still,
although many say we already have a big population today, it adds cash flow, and a balanced system where
those immigrant who come in take the lower paying jobs, as long as their children are studying and can then
produce for the better of this economy. As President Obama entered his term, in 2010, the statistical prove
shows that he got elected into office by minority groups like the Hispanic vote, and African American vote.
In our readings, we have studied the importance of humor, and I believe we can discuss this when it
comes to this, we can come to the conclusion that Obama has used this to catch the minority groups. We see
it close in time, as he organized a meeting in congress, and he seems to get others support, as they state,
" He does want to pursue a more humane approach to this and he cares deeply about this". (usa today).
Obama with the very action that he gathered a dozen leaders of groups,tells about his humor that he
wants to communicate unity.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2014/03/14/obama-immigration-white-house-meeting/6428029/
population, laws, and politics. It is not a question to investigate immigration, but rather a solution. The U.S
has been a country for immigration, and it is provides many groups that are third generation now, and still,
although many say we already have a big population today, it adds cash flow, and a balanced system where
those immigrant who come in take the lower paying jobs, as long as their children are studying and can then
produce for the better of this economy. As President Obama entered his term, in 2010, the statistical prove
shows that he got elected into office by minority groups like the Hispanic vote, and African American vote.
In our readings, we have studied the importance of humor, and I believe we can discuss this when it
comes to this, we can come to the conclusion that Obama has used this to catch the minority groups. We see
it close in time, as he organized a meeting in congress, and he seems to get others support, as they state,
" He does want to pursue a more humane approach to this and he cares deeply about this". (usa today).
Obama with the very action that he gathered a dozen leaders of groups,tells about his humor that he
wants to communicate unity.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2014/03/14/obama-immigration-white-house-meeting/6428029/
Obama is losing millenials' support
The 18-24 demographic is not turning out to enroll in Obama's Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare") in numbers as high as the administration had hoped. According to this Market Watch article, "Obama administration officials were hoping that one-third of overall signups would be that of the so-called 'invincibles,' young healthy adults who can help spread out the risk for the program." But this demographic has not shown the President the same support they did during his 2008 campaign and in the years shortly after. Dana Milbank argues that millennials have "abandoned Obama" because once he was elected, he did little to engage their generation. Obama tried to garner more millennial support for the Affordable Care Act by participating in a mock-interview on FunnyOrDie with Zach Galifinakis.
This situation ties in with a few things we've read and discussed in class. Milbank's argument that the millennial generation is "unable to remain attached to a cause" is consistent with Stein's and Sanburn's stance in their "The New Greatest Generation" article. The President's attempt to reach this generation through meeting with a celebrity popular among them on a popular media platform connects with our more recent readings about the power of media to reach people and help shape their views on issues (agenda-setting).
Public Option via Public Sphere
In a recent article on the news anthology website "The Week" it was reported that,
"In town meetings across Vermont last week, residents voted in favor of converting the Vermont Economic Development Authority into a public bank. Modeled after a similar bank in North Dakota, the Vermont proposal would create an institution that held and invested the state's funds locally, on the hope that doing so would provide a boost to the local economy and cut out middlemen bankers."
This article entitled "America should have a public option for everything" went on to mention such an option under discussion during the debate over ObamaCare and how it was squashed by health insurance and pharmaceutical company interests. In the comments section of the article I put forth the idea that auto insurance is a prime candidate for such a public option. Somewhere between capitalist and socialist practices may be a good fit for an America that is reeling from the effects of runaway free market ideologies.
I relate this discussion to the articles "The Public Sphere" and "It's Complicated...", both of which allude to the idea that todays public sphere may be evolving into an online based discussion. The former notes that in 1964 the radio, television, and newspapers had become the media of public sphere as opposed to public meetings or discussion. In the latter it is noted that current social media may increase public discussion but too often is a panacea for action. The article I note here, with it's comment section, is an emerging form of news and discussion that we only hope can shed the "slacktivism" associated with social media and add the interactivity absent in traditional news media to further a kind of public discussion that could lead to public action.
This article entitled "America should have a public option for everything" went on to mention such an option under discussion during the debate over ObamaCare and how it was squashed by health insurance and pharmaceutical company interests. In the comments section of the article I put forth the idea that auto insurance is a prime candidate for such a public option. Somewhere between capitalist and socialist practices may be a good fit for an America that is reeling from the effects of runaway free market ideologies.
I relate this discussion to the articles "The Public Sphere" and "It's Complicated...", both of which allude to the idea that todays public sphere may be evolving into an online based discussion. The former notes that in 1964 the radio, television, and newspapers had become the media of public sphere as opposed to public meetings or discussion. In the latter it is noted that current social media may increase public discussion but too often is a panacea for action. The article I note here, with it's comment section, is an emerging form of news and discussion that we only hope can shed the "slacktivism" associated with social media and add the interactivity absent in traditional news media to further a kind of public discussion that could lead to public action.
Malaysian jet
In a new article on cnn.com about the Malaysian jet's disappearance the investigators are turning to speculations that the jet was purposefully trying to disappear. Since the eight days the plane has been missing the world has been intrigued with the missing jet that just seemed to drop off the Earth. At first there was speculation of a hijacking because of fake passports that were used to board the plane. Then there were reports about the plane just exploding in the air or being at the bottom of the Indian Ocean. Whatever the case is, it is a scary thing that is happening right now since this has never happened before and it is alarming that officials cannot even determine if the plane crashed or not. The story continues to develop as they search the pilots homes and continue to investigate whether the plane was hijacked or not .
From Lapdog to Watchdog
http://m.nydailynews.com/1.1712043#bmb=1
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2574366/American-anchor-Russian-state-funded-news-quits-air-protest-Putins-incursion-Crimea.html
Liz Wahl was a reporter for Russia Today, a state funded network, who quit live on air because the network used propaganda to support Putins' actions. It has been reported that there is millions of dollars put into the network from Russia, in order to help push their political agenda. Liz Wahl has been praised as a hero for standing up and quitting, because she refused to push his agenda and because she stated she is proud to be an American and refuse to support an anti-American reports.
I want to relate this How the New Media Shape Political Campaigns, Russia Today is funded to give the Russian point of view and the network is actually established there is be a lap dog. I do think is a great the Liz stood up against the propaganda, but the same time the network established to push forward a Russian point of view. I think more effective was her ex co-worker Abby Martin who spoke out against the Russian government in her segment, and stated the military intervention isn't correct in the Ukraine. She spoke out with her point of view, making her a watch dog, but still reported the new with no bias.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2574366/American-anchor-Russian-state-funded-news-quits-air-protest-Putins-incursion-Crimea.html
Liz Wahl was a reporter for Russia Today, a state funded network, who quit live on air because the network used propaganda to support Putins' actions. It has been reported that there is millions of dollars put into the network from Russia, in order to help push their political agenda. Liz Wahl has been praised as a hero for standing up and quitting, because she refused to push his agenda and because she stated she is proud to be an American and refuse to support an anti-American reports.
I want to relate this How the New Media Shape Political Campaigns, Russia Today is funded to give the Russian point of view and the network is actually established there is be a lap dog. I do think is a great the Liz stood up against the propaganda, but the same time the network established to push forward a Russian point of view. I think more effective was her ex co-worker Abby Martin who spoke out against the Russian government in her segment, and stated the military intervention isn't correct in the Ukraine. She spoke out with her point of view, making her a watch dog, but still reported the new with no bias.
Scott Brown used in the political fight
MSNBC reported that Scott Brown running for Senate is making significant ground to obtain one of the six senate seats in the red Republican states. According to the article, this election years looks really good for Republicans as they have gained more favoritism. The article then begins to talks about the favoritism between President Obama and former president Bill Clinton. According to a poll, Clinton has much more favoritism in the red states then Obama does, and that is why he plays such a vital role in this campaign. His platform is very good for Obama. The article further compared Obama's ratings to the same as Vladamir Putin, saying that his approval rating is exactly the same as Putins.
I related this article to Holihan's "How the News Media shapes Political Campaigns." My first argument is that this article is almost completely one-sided. It tells you all the good things republicans want to do, but then ends with comparing Obama's approval ratings to Putin. Whoever wrote this article is definitely favorable to republicans. The article states that the "news media shapes the perceptions that are pieced together to form the social reality that motivates the political action" (103). I feel this article is definitely attempting to shape the perception of the reader, proposing that if you are a democrat then this information is reason to change your mind. Media is very powerful in perception but does not always report the full picture. I felt that this information was to benefit the republican candidates, example Scott Brown, as they named him a force in this year's election. The reading stated that those who use the internet for politics will be involved, and this is an important aspect because it shows how useful and powerful a tool that internet is when it comes to shaping perceptions and receiving news.
I related this article to Holihan's "How the News Media shapes Political Campaigns." My first argument is that this article is almost completely one-sided. It tells you all the good things republicans want to do, but then ends with comparing Obama's approval ratings to Putin. Whoever wrote this article is definitely favorable to republicans. The article states that the "news media shapes the perceptions that are pieced together to form the social reality that motivates the political action" (103). I feel this article is definitely attempting to shape the perception of the reader, proposing that if you are a democrat then this information is reason to change your mind. Media is very powerful in perception but does not always report the full picture. I felt that this information was to benefit the republican candidates, example Scott Brown, as they named him a force in this year's election. The reading stated that those who use the internet for politics will be involved, and this is an important aspect because it shows how useful and powerful a tool that internet is when it comes to shaping perceptions and receiving news.
Jlo sexualizes men
Entertainment Weekly posted an article on March 14 about J.Lo's new video called "I Luh Ya Papi." In the article they praise Lopez for Turing the tables on the classic rap video. The video itself portrays numerous chiseled men in minimal clothing such as underwear and speedos oiled on dripping with water. The article even asks "sick of all the underdressed ladies that rappers like to have decorating their sets like lawn ornaments?" And boasts that this is what Lopez does in her video.
This reminds me of the medias influence on how we view things. With so much talk about sex and power structure in politics, it seems that women are truly trying to flip that on its head. Women are now pushing forward to bring light to the fact that in so many places there is still large inequality in gender. My question is, are videos like this going to make any difference in the way men and women see the videos they view?
This reminds me of the medias influence on how we view things. With so much talk about sex and power structure in politics, it seems that women are truly trying to flip that on its head. Women are now pushing forward to bring light to the fact that in so many places there is still large inequality in gender. My question is, are videos like this going to make any difference in the way men and women see the videos they view?
Blog Post 5: U.S. Turns Over Internet Responsibilites To the World
Recently, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration or NTIA, a U.S. Commerce Department agency that manages and oversees a large portion of the internet, claimed that they are transferring their internet management responsibilities and duties to the "global internet community." The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers or ICANN, which is a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles and is under contract with the U.S. Commerce Department is responsible for managing .com and other domain names since 2000. ICANN's contract with the United States will expire or get canned in 2015, which is why the U.S. is deciding to end their overseeing management function, because they CAN, but some U.S. officials and businesses are worried about the idea of letting the United Nations, Russia, or China having control over the internet. Some officials like Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Jay Rockefeller, yes the descendant of the great John D. Rockefeller himself, supports the idea of the United States transferring oversight responsibilities of the internet to another organization mentioning that it resembles "other efforts the U.S. and our allies are making to promote a free and open internet, and to preserve and advance the current multi-stakeholder model of global internet governance."
I found this event related to the Kevin Michael DeLuna and Jennifer Peeples "From Public Sphere to Public Screen: Democracy, Activism, and the "Violence" of Seattle" reading because according to them through Jurgen Habermas, "the public sphere denotes a social space wherein private citizens gather as a public body with the rights of assembly association, and expression in order to form public opinion" (128). The internet is an area of the public sphere or it is the public sphere because there are several ideas floating around in the free marketplace of ideas for everyone and anyone to see. By turning over oversight responsibilities to the "global internet community," I think that the United States is promoting the idea of ultimate internet freedom and it makes them look like they are not the extreme watchdogs that monitor everyone's online accounts that several people see them as. Also by doing this, it opens up more views and perspectives to the world that may not have been exposed yet, building on the idea of imagery as discourse. I also find this story related to the cause of the World Trade Organization protests themselves because by the U.S. turning over oversight functions of the internet to someone else seems as if some large unannounced corporations are working a scheme in union to monitor the entire global scale, just because ICANN did it means they CAN do it too.
I found this event related to the Kevin Michael DeLuna and Jennifer Peeples "From Public Sphere to Public Screen: Democracy, Activism, and the "Violence" of Seattle" reading because according to them through Jurgen Habermas, "the public sphere denotes a social space wherein private citizens gather as a public body with the rights of assembly association, and expression in order to form public opinion" (128). The internet is an area of the public sphere or it is the public sphere because there are several ideas floating around in the free marketplace of ideas for everyone and anyone to see. By turning over oversight responsibilities to the "global internet community," I think that the United States is promoting the idea of ultimate internet freedom and it makes them look like they are not the extreme watchdogs that monitor everyone's online accounts that several people see them as. Also by doing this, it opens up more views and perspectives to the world that may not have been exposed yet, building on the idea of imagery as discourse. I also find this story related to the cause of the World Trade Organization protests themselves because by the U.S. turning over oversight functions of the internet to someone else seems as if some large unannounced corporations are working a scheme in union to monitor the entire global scale, just because ICANN did it means they CAN do it too.
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