When looking at the Country Side case, no one helped out the man because they we're part of the Country Side system. By helping the man out, they would be going against their employer and taking away cash value from the company. It's an example about how it's all about the win. Country Side could really care less about the man's medical and language issues, they go for blood and blood is what they got.
In the case of me having no affiliation with Country Side, I would hope to see a deal cut with the man and his family to get the house back to him if not for no fee, then at least 1/2 of what they we're asking.
We would have different moral responses because of our uniqueness in up-bringing, society, and human nature. Personally if I was involved with the case I would start a Hell Storm with Country Side. On the other hand, if I was with Country Side, I would probably be conformed to the company but the morals I grew up with would leave me in a state of utter heartache trying to separate my passion for life from my work life.
Stanford Prison
The experiment held at Stanford tells us that authority, conformity, and power have great take over powers in our human nature. The feeling you get from power is like no other. The system is set up to have everyone in a race for power. So when power is given their is a sense of not only accomplishment but now dominance over others. The most normal people cannot withstand the sensation that is presented.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
The System
Why are most systems self-serving, unethical, and conservative?
SOCIETY IS SURVIVAL OF THE ECONOMICALLY FITTEST. When this question was proposed in class, I immediately had two split reactions, one that believed in the question and one that challenged it. When we think of the oppression of systems we often designate a certain group of people whether it be by race, social class, or any other type of category. This shows the prejudice of the system. When thinking about this it came to me that systems are all about winners. Companies will do anything to better themselves, by almost any means necessary, i.e. taking over small businesses, clearing areas for buildings. In today's world, wee see big tech companies like Oracle wiping out any threat and then leaving thousands of people jobless, proving that the system is all about the win. If we take a humanitarian approach, Hurricane Katrina was the way it was because those who were left basically to die were the losers, the ones who in the system's eyes cannot move society forward. In the system's eyes, it's not worth the risk to save or protect the weak. This "conservative" approach shows that its all about keeping the tip of the iceberg afloat, and letting everyone drown below. In our world, life is about the WIN. In sports, coaches could really care less about that 37th man on the team, the want the win. Society is survival of the economically fittest.
PART 2
My other feeling on the subject was one of almost sincere disbelief and almost anger towards those who blame the system for their troubles and their strife. It seems that today people are more into excuses and hand outs then they are to the ideals and principles that our country was founded on. The idea of individualism has been lost in todays world because of a almost lazy attitude that says "it's not my fault". Well to be honest, it is your fault. Accountability for ones self is something rarely seen any more. My parents are perfect examples of how you can beat the system if you just suck it up and fight back with your brain. My dad came from a family of blue collar, poor, carpenters. He took his blows, had to make his way through tough times, mean streets, and all the other "problems" of life. But he didn't let that get him down, he graduated high school, didn't any type of money for college, so he served his country, got what education he could, even with the drawbacks of being in the military. He worked everyday to make himself better. 20 years later, he's living the life he dreamed for, getting to see the places he never thought he would get to see. And it's because he didn't sit back and make excuses for his woes. Everyone has the chance to make it and break the oppression of the system. Their are kids here at saint Marys who are living proof. They are taking advantage of the programs set up in rough areas and are making it. Our country was built off hard work and the belief that the individual spirit and drive could not be touched by any group. If your not the best player on the team, don't cry about it, go work your butt off and be somebody. Laziness is the disease of Americans today and the reason why system oppression is the way it is.
Part 1 (in class)-Group Analysis
Society(System) is set up to us human nature as a tool against the people. In psychology studies, it is proven that it is human nature to ignore the mistakes of others because of society's I can do it better mentality. In every history text it is proven that the same mistakes are made over and over again. THIS IS THE SYSTEM!! The system makes us believe that we can do anything better then anyone before, even if it's been proven wrong time and time again. By having people live this life, those who are on top of the system control all aspects of popular life i.e. authority, economics, and practically everyday life. The only ones who beat the system are the ones who are even aware that it's there.
SOCIETY IS SURVIVAL OF THE ECONOMICALLY FITTEST. When this question was proposed in class, I immediately had two split reactions, one that believed in the question and one that challenged it. When we think of the oppression of systems we often designate a certain group of people whether it be by race, social class, or any other type of category. This shows the prejudice of the system. When thinking about this it came to me that systems are all about winners. Companies will do anything to better themselves, by almost any means necessary, i.e. taking over small businesses, clearing areas for buildings. In today's world, wee see big tech companies like Oracle wiping out any threat and then leaving thousands of people jobless, proving that the system is all about the win. If we take a humanitarian approach, Hurricane Katrina was the way it was because those who were left basically to die were the losers, the ones who in the system's eyes cannot move society forward. In the system's eyes, it's not worth the risk to save or protect the weak. This "conservative" approach shows that its all about keeping the tip of the iceberg afloat, and letting everyone drown below. In our world, life is about the WIN. In sports, coaches could really care less about that 37th man on the team, the want the win. Society is survival of the economically fittest.
PART 2
My other feeling on the subject was one of almost sincere disbelief and almost anger towards those who blame the system for their troubles and their strife. It seems that today people are more into excuses and hand outs then they are to the ideals and principles that our country was founded on. The idea of individualism has been lost in todays world because of a almost lazy attitude that says "it's not my fault". Well to be honest, it is your fault. Accountability for ones self is something rarely seen any more. My parents are perfect examples of how you can beat the system if you just suck it up and fight back with your brain. My dad came from a family of blue collar, poor, carpenters. He took his blows, had to make his way through tough times, mean streets, and all the other "problems" of life. But he didn't let that get him down, he graduated high school, didn't any type of money for college, so he served his country, got what education he could, even with the drawbacks of being in the military. He worked everyday to make himself better. 20 years later, he's living the life he dreamed for, getting to see the places he never thought he would get to see. And it's because he didn't sit back and make excuses for his woes. Everyone has the chance to make it and break the oppression of the system. Their are kids here at saint Marys who are living proof. They are taking advantage of the programs set up in rough areas and are making it. Our country was built off hard work and the belief that the individual spirit and drive could not be touched by any group. If your not the best player on the team, don't cry about it, go work your butt off and be somebody. Laziness is the disease of Americans today and the reason why system oppression is the way it is.
Part 1 (in class)-Group Analysis
Society(System) is set up to us human nature as a tool against the people. In psychology studies, it is proven that it is human nature to ignore the mistakes of others because of society's I can do it better mentality. In every history text it is proven that the same mistakes are made over and over again. THIS IS THE SYSTEM!! The system makes us believe that we can do anything better then anyone before, even if it's been proven wrong time and time again. By having people live this life, those who are on top of the system control all aspects of popular life i.e. authority, economics, and practically everyday life. The only ones who beat the system are the ones who are even aware that it's there.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
1) Who is the story about? Who is the main character? The King or the high level servant? Why? 2) Why does the King decide to forgive the debt? 3) Why does the servant not follow the example of the king and forgive the debt? 4) If the Kingdom of God is like this parable, then what do we learn about the Kingdom of God?
1. The story is about a servant who has a very large debt, practically millioins of dollars in today's terms, to his ruling king. The main character in the story is the servant who was to pay back his debt to his king because the story revolves around the servants reception of compassion and then his choice to not return the favor given him by his king. The king is a very vital part however, because his example of love and compassion is the main ideal set for the parable.
2. The King decides to forgive the debt because of two reasons. The first is that the King took pity on his poor servant and his economic situtaion. He felt moved by the servant's heart's desire to save his family from a life of slavery because of his own faults. Another perspective is that the King, who was indeed a King, didn't have any true rush to gather the debts because after all his was a king, so he most likely had more dough than a bakery. But, for religious sake, he took great pity on his "humble" servant.
3. The servant does not follow the example of the king and forgive the debt because the servant is not affraid of his fellow servant like he is of the king. He sees that other servant as no better then him and not deserving of his compassion. Its all about social stature. It's like a student kissing a teachers rear for an extension, then punching a classmate who doesn't have the assignmen on him. There's no level of respect.
4. We learn that the Kingdom of God is an ideal of equality;that no one man is greater then any other man. It's like a chain-effect, to truly understand and be a part of the Kingdom of God you have to continue the flow of love and compassion to others. It is not enough to just receive. To be apart of the Kingdom of God, you must do unto others and you wish others to do unto you. (The Golden Rule)!!
1. The story is about a servant who has a very large debt, practically millioins of dollars in today's terms, to his ruling king. The main character in the story is the servant who was to pay back his debt to his king because the story revolves around the servants reception of compassion and then his choice to not return the favor given him by his king. The king is a very vital part however, because his example of love and compassion is the main ideal set for the parable.
2. The King decides to forgive the debt because of two reasons. The first is that the King took pity on his poor servant and his economic situtaion. He felt moved by the servant's heart's desire to save his family from a life of slavery because of his own faults. Another perspective is that the King, who was indeed a King, didn't have any true rush to gather the debts because after all his was a king, so he most likely had more dough than a bakery. But, for religious sake, he took great pity on his "humble" servant.
3. The servant does not follow the example of the king and forgive the debt because the servant is not affraid of his fellow servant like he is of the king. He sees that other servant as no better then him and not deserving of his compassion. Its all about social stature. It's like a student kissing a teachers rear for an extension, then punching a classmate who doesn't have the assignmen on him. There's no level of respect.
4. We learn that the Kingdom of God is an ideal of equality;that no one man is greater then any other man. It's like a chain-effect, to truly understand and be a part of the Kingdom of God you have to continue the flow of love and compassion to others. It is not enough to just receive. To be apart of the Kingdom of God, you must do unto others and you wish others to do unto you. (The Golden Rule)!!
Monday, October 15, 2007
U.S. Involvement
44. How does the U.S. support Israel?
45. Why was the Bush administration so much less involved than the Clinton administration in Israel-Palestine diplomacy?
46. What has the Bush administrations Middle East policy been all about?
45. The United States support Israel in major ways. This support comes in the form of military, financial, and diplomatic support. Over 25% of U.S. foreign aid goes to Israel, totaling just about $5 billion annually. This money is then sent back into the U.S. economy as Israel buys U.S. produced and made weapons and appliances. Almost every weapon owned by the Israeli government is U.S. made. The most controversial form of support from the U.S. comes in their diplomatic support in the U.N. The U.S. defends Israel in every aspect. Whenever there has been a U.N. violation committed by Israel, the U.S. is always there to defend them and veto any commission that may harm Israel. This support system by the U.S. is really the only reason Israel stands as it does today, without the U.S.
46. The Bush administration has been much less involved than the Clinton administration in Israel-Palestine diplomacy for many reasons. However there are two that are most relevant in our lives today. The first reason is that many of President Bush's advisers and administration are deeply invested in Arab controlled Oil manufacturing. By keeping a looser relationship with Israel, these investors can maintain a healthier and stronger relationship with those who control their money. The main reason for lack of involvement is because of our own issues at home with the 9/11 attack and War on Terrorism. The Bush administration saw that they were simply too occupied with our own safety to deal with the conflict of another people. So, their veto pen and funding is about the only involvement in the conflict. President Clinton didn't have a war or any homeland terrorist attack from another country to deal with. Also, during his Presidency he oversaw the largest economic boom the country has ever seen, thanks to the birth of the dot-com!
47. The Bush administration Middle East policy has been about keeping our country ahead and out of harm's way. Funding for Israel has been maintained, but after the 9/11 attacks, the Bush administration sought out to strengthen ties with Arab nations to ensure the safety of our people. This led to a bit of separation between us (United States) and Israel. Too really drive home the idea that the U.S. was serious about our own protection and our commitment to the Arab world, President Bush and then Secretary of State Collin Powell, called for a "State of Palestine" and "for the occupation to end." This shows how the Bush administration's policy on the Middle East is to save ourselves before the others.
45. Why was the Bush administration so much less involved than the Clinton administration in Israel-Palestine diplomacy?
46. What has the Bush administrations Middle East policy been all about?
45. The United States support Israel in major ways. This support comes in the form of military, financial, and diplomatic support. Over 25% of U.S. foreign aid goes to Israel, totaling just about $5 billion annually. This money is then sent back into the U.S. economy as Israel buys U.S. produced and made weapons and appliances. Almost every weapon owned by the Israeli government is U.S. made. The most controversial form of support from the U.S. comes in their diplomatic support in the U.N. The U.S. defends Israel in every aspect. Whenever there has been a U.N. violation committed by Israel, the U.S. is always there to defend them and veto any commission that may harm Israel. This support system by the U.S. is really the only reason Israel stands as it does today, without the U.S.
46. The Bush administration has been much less involved than the Clinton administration in Israel-Palestine diplomacy for many reasons. However there are two that are most relevant in our lives today. The first reason is that many of President Bush's advisers and administration are deeply invested in Arab controlled Oil manufacturing. By keeping a looser relationship with Israel, these investors can maintain a healthier and stronger relationship with those who control their money. The main reason for lack of involvement is because of our own issues at home with the 9/11 attack and War on Terrorism. The Bush administration saw that they were simply too occupied with our own safety to deal with the conflict of another people. So, their veto pen and funding is about the only involvement in the conflict. President Clinton didn't have a war or any homeland terrorist attack from another country to deal with. Also, during his Presidency he oversaw the largest economic boom the country has ever seen, thanks to the birth of the dot-com!
47. The Bush administration Middle East policy has been about keeping our country ahead and out of harm's way. Funding for Israel has been maintained, but after the 9/11 attacks, the Bush administration sought out to strengthen ties with Arab nations to ensure the safety of our people. This led to a bit of separation between us (United States) and Israel. Too really drive home the idea that the U.S. was serious about our own protection and our commitment to the Arab world, President Bush and then Secretary of State Collin Powell, called for a "State of Palestine" and "for the occupation to end." This shows how the Bush administration's policy on the Middle East is to save ourselves before the others.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
NPR: Sections 3-7
Section 3:
After the end of WWII, the Zionist movement took full force. As the European Jews migrated to the Middle East, their British support became weak, to the point that it didn't exist. The U.N. attempted to take control of the issue by declaring a new state of Israel and Palestine. The Palestinians rejected the idea and War broke out. Israel took on the surrounding Arab nations, defeated them, and created a new generation of Palestinian refugees.
Section 4:
In 1967 the Six-Day War between Israel and the combined forces of Egypt, Syria, and Jordan, occurred. In this war, Israel beat the snot out of their enemies and took control of the Sinai territory, Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Golan Heights. All these territories became occupied and the Arabs there were now under Israeli control, creating more refugees.
Section 5:
In the early 70's it became clear after attacks on Arabs and Israeli es, that talks of peace and compromise were needed. Israel signed a Peace Treaty with Egypt which lead for to a change in the Palestinians attitudes. Led by Yassir Arafat, the PLO began to take a more diplomatic approach towards their relations with Israel, at least for the time being.
Section 6:
In 1987, after 20 years of Israeli rule, all out fighting occurred between the Palestinians and Israel. This continued for 5 years. During this time Israel was spilt between leaders, one who favored extermination and one who favored talking. In 1992 PM Rabin reached a peace agreement with the PLO, the Oslo peace agreement of 1993. (signed on the White House Front Lawn)
Section 7:
The talks of the early 90's never really got anywhere. PM Rabin was assinated by the extremist Israelis. Hamas heated up their suicide attacks and negotiations between both sides ceased to exist. Today the intensity of fighting is higher then ever.
After the end of WWII, the Zionist movement took full force. As the European Jews migrated to the Middle East, their British support became weak, to the point that it didn't exist. The U.N. attempted to take control of the issue by declaring a new state of Israel and Palestine. The Palestinians rejected the idea and War broke out. Israel took on the surrounding Arab nations, defeated them, and created a new generation of Palestinian refugees.
Section 4:
In 1967 the Six-Day War between Israel and the combined forces of Egypt, Syria, and Jordan, occurred. In this war, Israel beat the snot out of their enemies and took control of the Sinai territory, Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Golan Heights. All these territories became occupied and the Arabs there were now under Israeli control, creating more refugees.
Section 5:
In the early 70's it became clear after attacks on Arabs and Israeli es, that talks of peace and compromise were needed. Israel signed a Peace Treaty with Egypt which lead for to a change in the Palestinians attitudes. Led by Yassir Arafat, the PLO began to take a more diplomatic approach towards their relations with Israel, at least for the time being.
Section 6:
In 1987, after 20 years of Israeli rule, all out fighting occurred between the Palestinians and Israel. This continued for 5 years. During this time Israel was spilt between leaders, one who favored extermination and one who favored talking. In 1992 PM Rabin reached a peace agreement with the PLO, the Oslo peace agreement of 1993. (signed on the White House Front Lawn)
Section 7:
The talks of the early 90's never really got anywhere. PM Rabin was assinated by the extremist Israelis. Hamas heated up their suicide attacks and negotiations between both sides ceased to exist. Today the intensity of fighting is higher then ever.
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