To what extent does (or has) conflict, violence and intolerance influence (influenced) American cultural identity?
Conflict, violence and intolerance influenced american cultural identity by people using these actions against others that to them are different. Violence in todays society has a big impact. its almost like its normal for people to fight it happens where ever you go, at school, at work, at home, anywhere. It never seems to change or be stopped, racist people sometimes use violence on others, if they were a different ethnicity. I think that people use violence so much thati dont think it could ever be stopped , some people to them its a way of life.
To what extent is the mass media a friend or foe of peace, non-violence and tolerance in American society?
sometimes they over exagerate things.i believe that there a foe. Today you only see on the news is murders, gang shootings, homicides,basically violence. The mass media doesnt want to show how people helping oneanother and good things that are happening in our country, they want things to be "interesting" so sometimes they even make up things , "thats what people want to see" which is not true ! they make our country look terrible.they make us look like were all bad people.
What are the origins (causes) of racism in American history and how do they affect individuals and groups today? The causes of racism today in American history are how people are raised. If you are raised by racist parents-chances are they're going to put their views in their childrens' heads-and even if they don't their children are going to notice and overhear their parents opinions. Children aren't born racist, they are not born with negative things in their head, something happens in their life to give them those ideas-and mostlikely it comes from the parents or any other parental figure they have. Someone could also have a bad encounter with someone of another race and take it out on the whole culture. They effect individuals today because a whole culture of people are being overlooked because of peoples senseless opinions and encounters-its not fair.
What are the origins (causes) of racism in American history and how do they affect individuals and groups today? The causes of racism today in American history are how people are raised. If you are raised by racist parents-chances are they're going to put their views in their childrens' heads-and even if they don't their children are going to notice and overhear their parents opinions. Children aren't born racist, they are not born with negative things in their head, something happens in their life to give them those ideas-and mostlikely it comes from the parents or any other parental figure they have. Someone could also have a bad encounter with someone of another race and take it out on the whole culture. They effect individuals today because a whole culture of people are being overlooked because of peoples senseless opinions and encounters-its not fair.What are the most effective strategies for preventing racism and teaching tolerance & respect for diversity? The most effective strategy for preventing racism and teaching tolerance and respect for diversity is raising your children right. Nobody can save the world. People are always going to be racist, and it's an unfortunate thing-but if people who want to change how we respect diversity than they need to do their own part and raise their children right and teach them right and wrong-teach them that everyone is equal, and that it doesn't matter what color your skin is. You can be friends with anyone, you can date anyone, their are no labels on people. If children are taught that when they're young-they have a less chance of being racist as they get older.What kind of power does the mass media have in influencing American culture and cultural groups? How does it use it? The mass media has a lot of power on American culture because the TV and all the gossip magazines mold America. Girls want to weigh close to nothing and party all the time because people make it look okay-and it influences America a lot. It's really different to people from other cultures who come into this country. Like, my best friend friend came here from the Philippines in 2000, and I had my belly button pierced and I just remember her mother thinking it was the weirdest thing. She didn't want my friend to go to the mall, or do teenager things because of what she's heard about America and what she's seen on tv. So I personally think the media has a lot to do with the influence of American culture. To what extent is the mass media a friend or foe of peace, non-violence and tolerance in American society? I think the mass media has a little bit of both friend and foe about peace, non-violence and tolerance in American society. It's not only mass media-its the world right now. It's hard to go a day without reading in the papers about a shooting or some other form of violence. People are solving problems by killing each other. And movies, music videos, and music in general sort of make it seem normal sometimes. It's just a part of life now-its messed up, but how many people are shocked when they hear about a murder? Somehow, it's become how we handle problems. The authorities are dedicated to solving problems-so they're pretty much the "friend" of American society, they're what keeps, or try to keep us together.What impact does the legal system have on American culture or cultural groups in America? The legal system has a lot of impact on culture in America. Because that's one thing that all cultures in America share is the justice system-even if no one agrees with it, the laws are mostly the same everywhere in America and nobody is an exception of the law.What is the purpose of rights in American society? To what extent is the enforcement of rights in America effective? The purpose of rights in American society is to give people in America the room to express there opinions, say and do what they like along certain boundries (the law). I look at rights kind of as options-I mean, it's not an option to have our rights obviously, but you choose whether you exercise the rights you have. Some people don't even know what their rights are. They could get pulled over and not know about the Miranda Rights or any other rights they are entitled to living here in America.Under what circumstances or conditions might (or does) political, economic, military or religious power corrupt justice? Religious power does corrupt justice. George Bush is a perfect example, because as the president of the united states he has all these powers, and he uses his religion and mixes it with our government-and that's not right. Because he's catholic (and theres nothing wrong with that) but because of that he prohibited gay marriage. Thats not right-religion and goverment aren't suppose to mix and it does in this country. It has a big impact on this country and its not fair to people who aren't relgious and just want to live our lives.
To what extent is the mass media a friend or foe of peace, non-violence and tolerance in American society?
I think that the mass media is a foe to the American Society. Today when you turn the t.v. on all you hear about is shootings, murders, and homicides. I think that is only degrating our country. People from out of the country would here the bad stuff coming from our country and it would make them want to come here less and less. The media makes lies up so people can see what they want. When was the last time you heard something good on the news? Something where it shows people helping eachother?
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Ashley Rego
Date:
RE: EQ: Peace, Non-Violence & Tolerance: THE WHOLE FINAL
1. To what extent does (or has) conflict, violence and intolerance influence (influenced) American cultural identity?
It influenced American then, like our ancestors, but not now. Violence and conflict goes on now by discrimination from different races, and cultures. Basically racism is what goes on today. Intolerance still happens in schools. For example if their were Iranians in our class people would discriminate on them, and act intolerant.
2. Should the use of political, economic or social power be socially (or culturally) responsible?
Yes all people in our society are responsible because they all influence each other in the society.
3. How do race, gender and class influence our understanding or actions concerning power and authority?
They all influence our understanding and actions concerning power and authority because not everyone has equal rights. For example in America, theres never been a black or female president.
4. What is the relationship between political, economic and military power? How does each derive its authority?
Its basically all the same. Its all about whom and what you know. They all have some sort of power from the government.
5. How does Americas global power (political, economic, military, technological and cultural) affect groups in America?
It affects every group in America because anyone with a high ranking position that is politically or governmentally involved could affect a group of peoples decision in America.
6. How has American history influenced our understanding of identity and community?
American history has influenced our understanding of identity and community because if we didnt know about the past, we could possibly make the same mistakes and repeat history again. It is important to learn about the past so that way the negatives wont ever happen again. Time in history would repeat if there werent any history. It influences our community with certain distinctions from the past. For example, FortTabor with all the caves and forts from the war. That is memories left behind from our past, just like the brick walls from the Indians left behind that has never been touched in America. These are all memories of history that can be seen and never erased away.
7. How are communities formed in American society? How and why do they change?
Communities are formed in society by different groups of people joined together to make a place to live. They change by different groups of people, businesses, culture, and race. They change because everyday someone is born or dying. Over time population increases, different races are born, different businesses are opening, new homes are being built, and so then the community is changing.
8. To what extent does global, national, regional, ethnic and individual identity influence our daily lives?
Global, national, regional, ethnic and individual identity all influence our daily lives by the way we dress, talk, the type of people we hang around with, culture, religion,and the language we speak or know.
9. In what ways do changes in identity or community influence changes in culture in American society?
Changes in identity and community influence changes in culture in American society by the environment youre brought up from, and where youre raised. The factors determine your identity and community.
10. How will the increase in cultural diversity in Americas demographics over the next 50 years affect racism in America? Over time racism in America will decrease as different cultures and races join together in their community.
Raft Questions:
1. You are an auto-mechanic. The INS calls and asks you to report illegal aliens working for you. Do you report them?
If I was an auto-mechanic and I got a call from the INS and they asked me to have illegal aliens work for me I wouldnt report them, but I wouldnt let them work for me because if the FBI found out then my business, and employees would destroy the company. Even though their illegal, I wouldnt is a snitch because their just trying to make their living, and survive just likes you and me, so I cant really blame them.
2. You are you. In a letter to the teacher of this course, explain what was learned (knowledge, understanding and action), what can be improved in the curriculum, and what you can do to pass on this course to others.
Dear Mr. Everett,
Youve done a great job teaching. Ive learned a lot of history that I didnt even know. I learned about Racism in different countries, Understanding different peoples opinions in their logs, and different cultures and religions. We watched movies about different types of people in different countries, about the struggles, and the types of racism. Going on a field trip could help students learn more about different cultures and ideas. What I recommend others that take this course is do the form logs, turn in all your work, finish all your projects on time, and most importantly try, and you can pass this class.
3.
You are the Presidents son. You agree to participate in an anti-war protest. Write a letter to your father giving reasons.Dear Father,
I disagree on war. Its not fair to fight with other countries because we dont agree upon certain situations, and what they do. We can change that by using a different method. War isnt the right way to go. Not only is it not resolving conflict, which makes situations worse, it creates more wars and disagreements. Its definitely not worth our troops dying, while their giving their lives to our country, and while their families are hoping the best, and getting that phone call saying your husbands dead. Thats not fair. These are the reasons why I think was should stop. There is no point.
4. You are followed through a store while shopping. Explain your grandmother later what it feels like to be a minority.
When youre a minority you feel as though youre being watched all the time by different races, and being discriminated by different types of people wherever you go. I feel so embarrass and harassed. I want my peace and right to be able to do my shopping just like anyone else.
5. You are a gay teenager. Write in your journal a dialogue between you and your parents about your sexual identity. Gay teenager: Mom, we need to talk... Mother: ok, whats up? Gay teenager: I came to the conclusion that Im gay, I like girls. Mother: What!? Since when? Gay teenager: Umm...Few days ago...I hope youre not upset with me. I guess I find woman more attractive then men. Mother: well, I am upset because I dont understand why, but that is your decision, and there is nothing I can do about it, but it is something you need to talk to your father about. (Father walks in the door) Father: hi hunny Gay teenager: hi dad...I need to talk to you about something. Father: what is it about? Gay teenager: its about my sexual identity. Father: say what? Father: what about it? Gay teenager: Im gay, I like girls\ Father: What!! Why? Gay teenager: I dont know, I just find girls more attractive. Father: I mean, dont you want to get married someday Gay teenager: No, I dont like men. Their slobs and disgusting. Father: Not all guys are like that. You just need to find the right one. Gay teenager: I hope youre not upset with me. Father: Upset!? That is not even the word for it. You are a disgrace to this family! Go to your room!! Gay teenager: (starts to cry)
6. You are a big city mayor. Justify to a group of citizens why funds should be used to alleviate homelessness.
Funds should go to homeless people because theyre living in poverty, and my job consists of helping our government better and to force this issue about homelessness. I do not want to see anyone struggle. Especially people who dont even have a place to live. Its bad enough we see homeless people all the time. We should donate funds to them to at least get them in a shelter and provide them with food and things they need.
7. You are young single Latina mother. Write an editorial explaining the connection between race, gender and class. The connection between race, gender, and class all apply because your race is what your nationality is, and the gender determines what sex you are. Our class depends on how you are brought up, and in what kind of environment youre raised upon. This determines what kind of house you live in, and the way you live. The all connect because they make up some of you characteristics, and it shows who you are.
8. You are the son of a racist father. Draft an imaginary dialogue between your father and you concerning his racism. Son: Dad, why are you so racist? Dad: Because I dont like black people Son: Theres no need for that. They never did anything to you Dad: Their just ignorant, and lazy Son: Not every black person is like that. You shouldnt judge people you dont know. Dad: I dont need to know them because their all the same Son: That isnt true Dad: To me it is, you better not even think about dating a black girl. Dad: I wont allow it Son: Thats neither fair nor right to judge people you dont even know. Especially if you dont know them. Son: what if you were black and were being discriminated against your race and color. How would you feel? You wouldnt like it. Dad: Im not black so I dont care Son: how would you feel if a black person discriminated on you because youre white? Dad: so be it, i'm not the one whos black. Son: youre terrible.
9. Your income ranks you as the top 1% in America. Write in your will what makes you different from the other 99%.
What makes me different from everyone else in America is my income. I rank the top 1% in America. This means Im different from everyone else. I have more money, health insurance coverage, and most tax returns then anyone else. I make a different amount of income from everyone else in America. 10. Your parents are divorcing. Describe a phone conversation with your best friend about how youd envision a peaceful home. Me: Guess what happened today. Geena: What? Me: My parents decided to get divorced. Geena: Oh my god..How come? Me: Well, they argue all the time and they are always fighting. Geena: Well, maybe its best if they do then Me: Yea, it will definite bring peace to my home without them arguing all the time. Geena: thats true, and im very sorry to hear that...are you ok? Me: yea, im alright, but the house is going to be different now that my dads gone. Geena: what are you going to miss most? Me: everything besides the fight and arguing. Like the way we use to go out to eat twice a week, and the times we went to the movies as a family. Geena: aww... if you need anything im here for you ok? Me: thanks
11. You are a pregnant teenager. Brainstorm a list of people and institutions that have power and authority over you.
My mother, Father, Boyfriends father, Boyfriends Mother, My boss, my boyfriends boss. The government and the president.
To what extent is the mass media a friend or foe of peace, non-violence and tolerance in American society?
i believe mass media is a friend and foe of peace non violence and tolerance in American society.The reason i believe that mass media is a friend to American society because it keeps us updated on what goes on in the world.The reason i believe mass media is a foe is because it almost always gives you bad news about people dying or shooting it shows you more of the bad thats going on in America then the good .
4. What is the relationship between political, economic and military power? How does each derive its authority?
the relationship between political economic and military power is that the all are big issues in the U.S and they are all very powerful.Each derives its authority because they all do different things!
9. To what extent is the mass media a friend or foe of peace, non-violence and tolerance in American society? The mass media puts so much attention on violence that it becomes sort of shocking for people when they see peace and tolerance. If violence is what is going on then it should be reported on, but not over and over again as the media often does. Those who commit violent acts, such as school shooters or gangs, are doing it to get recognition and fear from other, when they are reported on over and over again then the media is giving these people what they want. People see their actions, the actions get drilled into their heads and people begin to live in constant fear of simlar situtaions. It gets to the point where you start to wonder if the only reason some of these people commit such awful crimes is because they know everyone will hear about for months and they will be remebered for something, so in many ways the media only hurts chances at nonviolence and tolerance.
