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Analysis of the Montana 1948 by Larry Watson

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Introduction

Authors have always used their literary works to convey a certain message or to depict some evil in the society within which they live. This is clearly depicted in the novel “Montana 1948″ by Larry Watson. The novel revolves around the life of a boy named David Hayden, who lives with his extended family in a minute town known as Bentrock, Montana. The Hayden family is known to be extremely powerful in Mercer County and incorporates members such as a war hero and the local sheriff. However, the summer of 1948 marks the turning point in David’s life as far as his point of view of the things that he has ever known is concerned. First, David’s nanny named Marie Little Soldier fell sick upon which David’s uncle Frank was called in to examine her. Marie, however, refuses to be examined by him and confides to David’s mom Gail, that Frank molests Native American patients. Ultimately, Marie dies, but David Hayden admits to his dad that she may have been sexually abused and murdered by Uncle Frank. This leaves Wes, who is David’s father and the local sheriff in a dilemma as to the legal action that he is supposed to take. He has to decide whether let Uncle Frank remain free and maintain his loyalty to his family, or be loyal to justice of the land and arrest Uncle Frank. Ultimately, there is an agreement that Uncle Frank should be locked up in David’s house cellar until such a time when an appropriate decision is made pertaining to his fate. However, Uncle Frank ends the reigning dispute when he commits suicide with the cellar.

One of the most dominant themes in the novel is racism. Daisy McAuley, one of the local women uses the term “squaws” in reference to the Indian women. This is a racist terminology that incorporates terms such as “redskin”, “black gin” “nigger”. It is worth noting that these things are a symbol of racial inferiority. Daisy has always known that doctor Frank Hayden rapes Indian women but does not care much about that. This is because the entire community bears some prejudice against Indians and opines that they are ignorant of what doctors should do when examining them.

In addition, racism is shown to be a function of misunderstanding and ignorance with Julian Hayden as a prime example. This key symbol of Julian’s opinions is his two story “dude ranch”. While Europeans conquered the west thanks to their guns and brute force rather than their intelligence and knowledge, Julian is quite ignorant of this fact in his opinion. He uses the term “red meat” to refer to the Sioux thereby denigrating them as objects that may be used anyhow by his son frank. Julian’s crude and boorish nature are exhibited by his regular use of foul language, as well as his reference to bodily functions in describing other races.

While it may be assumed that Wes was free of racial prejudice against the Indians, subtle expressions of the vice may be noticed in some of his behavior. For example, Wes prevents his son David from wearing moccasins that had been given to him as he believed that the shoes would make David as lazy and flat-footed as Indians. The use of shoes in reference to Indians may point at the fact that the society believed that there was nothing wrong in keeping them under their feet, as that is where they belong. Wes’s prejudice is seen especially in the fact that he thought them to be irresponsible, superstitious, ignorant and lazy, of course, with a few exceptions.

Analysis of the Novel, 1984 by George Orwell

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Analysis of the Novel, 1984 by George Orwell

Introduction

The novel, 1984, by George Orwell qualifies to be considered a classic piece of literature going by the depth in the content and relevant insights it contain and the unique style that it adopts. Using the experiences of character Wilson Smith, Orwell attempts to highlight the influence that a totalitarian government would have on the society members. The dangers arising from such a government lie in attempts to control the lives of its civilians. Through this, the government manipulates civilians’ minds undermining their ability to make decisions for themselves. These totalitarian tendencies are the ones that Orwell is disturbed with as they give way to widespread oppressions as the government seeks to control and monitor the lives and movements of civilians.

While capitalist nations such as the United States claim to rubbish totalitarian tendencies, it is gradually becoming evident that they are embracing the same tendencies. Events that have taken place after the terrorist attack of September 11, 2001 points towards authoritarian government tendencies covered in the novel 1984. Legislations, revelations of illegal wiretapping and government sanctioned torture and assassinations that have taken place relate to the tendencies that make George Orwell disturbed. As a result, the democracy that the US has traditionally been associated with has been progressively contracting. Relating totalitarian tendencies established in 1984 and the current ongoings in the US administrations, it is becoming evident that tendencies mentioned in the novel are creeping into the US and they pose dangers to and are counterproductive to the democracy that the country has been advocating.

Constant Surveillance

George Orwell has effectively discussed the issue of constant surveillance, where government authorities watch over the lifestyle of its citizens in order to look out for any signs of rebellion. For instance, the government establishes a slogan of, “big brother is watching you” (Orwell 3). This is meant to ensure that the citizens became cautious of whatever they are doing. Additionally, the government authorities use telescreens to monitor the activities of its citizens. These screens are found in public places. The police are also strategic and George Orwell depicts them as flying around residence using helicopters, peering into people’s windows.

Government authority is vested in the Party, signifying that the Party is the government. Curiously, the Party uses members of the family to survey the activities of fellow members. The Party uses children to get information about the activities of their parents. Orwell provides a picture in which spies of the party train children to be devoted members of the party, thereby making them to relay information about the activities of their parents. The fact that children are allowed by the party to eavesdrop on their parent’s conversation makes adults to even fear their own children. Sometimes, parents denounce their children, and the party’s propaganda machine, The Times, would write an article praising this act as heroic. The child would be branded as a ‘hero’ for abandoning his family for the well-being of the party.

Other forms of surveillance can be depicted when party officials warn the citizens against allowing their thoughts to wander aimlessly. The consequence of this according to party officials is that some negative thought could easily be registered on the public telescreens. For instance, if a citizen has a negative facial expression when victory is announced, he would be facecrime. The author says, “Your worst enemy was your own nervous system. At any moment, the tension inside you was liable to translate itself into some visible symptom” (Orwell 64).

In the US, the situation is the same as in Oceania. As has been witnessed in Oceania, police officers are not ashamed of using helicopters to even look through the windows of their citizens. In the US, many government officials have been mandated to enter into private homes without any warrants. These powers have been offered to them by the Patriot Act of 2001, which was signed into law by former US President George Bush (Fincen 3). This Act was extended by President Obama in 2011, suggesting that the citizens would continually have their homes checked without warrants. The aspect of using children to monitor the activities of their parents can be equated to the habit of US authorities keeping computerized information of citizens. The fact that children would relay information of parents to party officials is akin to the danger of private information being fed into a centralized data bank (Bennett 3). Government officials have effectively used Media outlets like CNN to spread western ideals. In this sense, both the Obama and Bush administrations have traditionally used media houses to paint a good picture of Western countries. This makes non-western nations to look ‘bad’.

Unending Propaganda

The inner party uses propaganda as a strategy to force its viewpoint on its citizens. Those who rebel against the assertions of the propaganda are tortured and sometimes brainwashed in order to conform to the dictates of the party. It is quite apparent that rumors, false ideas and myths control the minds of citizens in the fictitious country, Oceania. One of the most distinct propaganda machinery used is the party slogan that reads; “War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength.” This slogan is doublespeak because it does not express any form of absolute truth. A clear analysis of this slogan reveals key issues. For instance, the slogan spreads a distinct propaganda that discourages citizens from looking for freedom because it is a form of slavery. Additionally, the party slogan creates the impression that the ignorance of the citizens on government affairs is a great strength. In this sense, the propaganda asserts that the secret to happiness lies in ignorance.

The slogan has effectively been used by the government to control its citizens into believing that the INGSOC government alone that can make them happy. Another slogan, “Big brother is watching you” is an effective propaganda that is used by the party through the media to control the minds of its citizens. From the surface, the slogan creates the impression that the citizens are safe in the hands of the authority. However, the slogan is meant to spread fear among the citizens that without the Party, there would be no safety. This makes the citizens not to rebel against the establishment.

Of course, it has to be acknowledged that the ‘Big brother’ is composed of the Party and the INGSOC. In general, propaganda has been used to brainwash the citizens of Oceania into believing that ‘big brother’ intends to make them happy. These propagandas have effectively been used to prevent rebellion because it makes citizens to feel safe and protected. The apparent belief in an ideal society through propaganda can therefore be described as one of the most lethal weapon that has been used by the Party to control the citizens of Oceania. Indeed, the aspect of brainwashing is quite successful. When Winston visits Parsons’ place, he notices a full-sized banner of ‘big brother’ (Orwell 27).This is the party paraphernalia within the house of a citizen, highlighting the fact that ‘big brother’ has been effective in spreading propaganda to households.

President George Bush was a master propagandist, especially during the time of the Iraq war. Having known that the public was not supportive of the Iraq invasion, he tried to use some phrases which were meant to hide the truth. Terms such as,’ axis of evil’ were meant to whip public sentiments for the war. Although it was quite apparent that there existed no weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, the then US president was more concerned about regime change in order to install a regime that was favorable to the oil interests of the US. By suggesting that Iraq falls within the axis of evil was a strategic language that was meant to convince the public that the country was making nuclear weapons.

Distortion of Language

Like other literary scholars, George Orwell has effectively abused and misused the English language in order to drive his message home. Government authorities deceive and manipulate the citizenry by language. As a result, the people are able to exhibit unquestionable loyalty to the regime. Distortion of language is highly exposed through the media. Quite apparently, the media is skilled in engineering the ‘truth’. For instance, Winston’s job in the ministry of Truth is to modify news items and other documents that expose the Party in bad light (Lewis, Florence and Moss 47). After replacing the original document with a modified one, he destroys all the original files. Orwell says:

This process of continuous alteration was applied not only to newspapers, but also to books, periodicals, pamphlets, posters, leaflets… Day by day and almost minute by minute, the past was brought up to date. In this way, every prediction made by the Party could not be shown by documentary evidence to have been correct; nor was any item of news, or any expression of opinion, which conflicted with the needs of the moment, ever allowed to remain on record (Orwell 42).

Of course, the aspect of distorting language was meant to make it difficult for the opposition to grow. Additionally, the totalitarian state of Oceania is in constant war, and the Party has to keep the public satisfied with this warfare. The authorities are quite aware that if the public becomes dissatisfied with the warfare, then it would resent the shortage of food and other commodities and possibly rebel against the party (Berkes 7). Therefore, the use of language through the media has been used to distract public attention away from the negative side of warfare. Media uses soothing words, which creates good news of victory. For instance, Winston’s telescreen announces, “Our forces in South India have won a glorious victory. I am authorized to say that the action we are now reporting may well bring the war within measurable distance of its end” (Orwell 28).

In many instances, the media relies on the contention that any piece of information that is repeated often becomes accepted truth. This is something that Winston comes to discover, when he becomes amazed that his friends and colleagues accept the lies that emanate from the media. Therefore, in order for doublespeak to be effective, “you just say things frequently and people eventually understand and say it themselves” (Chilton 27).

In another instance, politicians abuse language to hide the truth. Orwell offers the example of how politicians can twist words in order to deceive people. For instance, defenseless villages are bombarded from the air and the inhabitants are driven away from their homes. When millions of peasants are robbed of their farm produces, the authorities’ uses jargon filled English to pacify the general republic (Orwell 148). Orwell in fact castigates this heavy reliance on ready-made phrases.

The Obama administration can be accused of the distortion of language using aspects of double speak. In doublespeak, the administration has distorted language through the application of semantics and euphemism. Obama has on many occasions been overheard suggesting that he accepts debate on civil liberties. This has not been true because his administration has been known for penalizing whistleblowers who volunteer information to the public about the secret dealings of the state.

Historical Revisionism

Historical revisionism is normally achieved through the deliberate distortion of historical records in order to legitimize negative events that happened in the past. Sometimes, it would entail denying some crimes that happened in the past. This is normally achieved through the aspect of forging documents, and manipulating statistics. As has been visualized earlier, the Party used the media to engineer truth through language. In this sense, Orwell acknowledges that the Party has the ultimate control over history. In fact, language according to Orwell is linked to history. The work of Winston at the Ministry of Truth is to modify news items and other documents in order to erase the truth that happened in the past. Quite apparently, this whole process of falsification of documents amazes the reader of the novel, when it is found out that Winston, the master forger of documents has problems recalling reality of the past.

Oceania is at war but Winston is not sure whether the country is at war with Eurasia or Eastasia. This is because the Part keeps changing history (Orwell 42). Falsification of documents also happens in the ministry of plenty, where economic figures are made up to create the impression that the economy has improved greatly. This is meant to make a contradiction between the past, and the present, in order to make the citizens believe that the current regime is better than the former ones. This is not true because the ‘big brother’ regime is involved in numerous warfare, which makes the economy slow down.

In a different instance, the government of Oceania has the habit of continually revising records that are historical in order to conform to the politics that occur in the current realm. It is quite apparent that Oceania is currently at war with Eurasia with records indicating that this country has been a constant enemy of Oceania. However, the records are changed in order to brainwash the public into believing that the country is actually an ally. In essence, historical revisionism is an effective tool that is used for propaganda purposes by the ministry of truth. Orwell witnesses the aspect of changing the truth of the past to conform to the current setting in this statement; “he who controls the present, controls the past. He who controls the past, controls the future” (Orwell 37).

The aspect of distortion of historical records has been achieved by the Obama administration largely. The hunt for Osama bin laden has been filled with a lot of discreetness and few Americans know what happened. Distortion of information during Osama’s killings was achieved through censorship. No information has been availed to the public concerning how the al-Qaida fugitive met his death. Although much remains to be desired as to how the man was killed, the Obama administration has convinced the public that he was shot and dropped in the ocean in order to prevent Muslims from making the terrorist a hero.

Fear

Technological surveillance features prominently within the novel, where telescreens are being used to monitor the daily activities of the citizens. This is meant to instill fear within the general population that any action beyond what is acceptable by the establishment would attract heavy punishment. Ironically, the aspect of surveillance is received positively by the citizens, who view it as an aspect of a caring government that protects them from potential danger from enemies of the republic. In this sense, widespread fear is initiated into the enemies of the establishment. This helps to cement the authority of those in government because they get assured of ultimate obedience from the citizens.

In the same spirit, Americans have accepted technology as a form of surveillance for security purposes. Most Americans regard technological surveillance as favorable. This acceptance hinges on fear of terrorism. Therefore, Americans have no problem with government authorities tapping their telephone conversations because they believe it is a worthy sacrifice for their security.

Perpetual War

George Orwell’s book rotates around three states, Oceania, Eurasia and Eastasia. At any time, Oceania is at war with any of these states. In this sense, there can never be a time in which Oceania is in alliance with both states. When it is at peace with one state, it must always be at war with the other. The theme of perpetual war is therefore consistent in the novel. This is similar to situations in the US. The US is always in a condition of perpetual war, and barely in time for peace. This traditional was precipitated during the Bush regime, when the war on Afghanistan began. The end of the Afghanistan war was associated with the commencement of the Iraq war, and it is quite apparent that the end of the Iraq war shifted attention to Iran due to its nuclear program. Therefore, the states of Eurasia and Eastasia can be compared to Iraq and Afghanistan, which seem to change positions of war.

Torture

The Party has an exclusive room through which all forms of torture are carried on individuals who seem to have ideologies that contradict the manifesto of the ‘big brother’. Room101 is a torture chamber within the Ministry of Love, where political prisoners are forced to recant their convictions. Indeed, the protagonist Smith undergoes untold anguish within the confines of room number 101. In the book, Smith undergoes physical torture where he receives incessant blows in order for him to confess even things he has not done. The intellectuals of the party administer drug injections and electric shocks in order to make a forced confession.

The Detainee Treatment Act of 2005 has shielded the US from the atrocities that were being done on war prisoners in Guantanamo Bay. Before the Act, torture was used as an interrogation tool for the prisoners, who were mostly, associated with terrorism (Greenberg 114). Like the use of drugs and electric shock in room 101, war prisoners in Guantanamo Bay were initially forced to accept fabricated charges. Therefore, the Detainee Treatment Act that was signed by former President Bush can be described as a great success in prohibiting inhumane treatment of prisoners. Nevertheless, the amended Act of the same law has been criticized by human rights organizations like Amnesty International for providing loopholes that can precipitate torture of prisoners. In this sense, the amended version is akin to allowing the torture activities that happen in Room 101.

Lack of Habeas Corpus

The principle of Habeas Corpus ensures that an individual under arrest is brought before a court of law. This ensures that a prisoner is not detained unlawful. The novel 1984 by George Orwell exposes situations in which individuals are arrested without trial. Thought police arrest Winston and never provide any trial. This denied him the chance to prove himself innocent. When Winston Smith is arrested, he is taken through torture even before any court of law proves him guilty.

The aspect of preventing someone from declaring himself innocent until proven guilty is quite visible in our society. This signifies that there is a lack of the principle of Habeas Corpus. In the US for instance, former President George Bush suspended the Habeas Corpus and it has never been reinstated up to date (Monacellib 5). Therefore, innocent people can be arrested and sent to jail without any trial. Even when in jail, it becomes quite difficult for such people to prove themselves innocent in order to afford them freedom and a fair trial. This signifies that contemporary Americans are not quite different from Winston’s case, who suffered torture at the hands of the party officials.

Conclusion

The novel 1984 by George Orwell can be acknowledged as having predicted the advent of totalitarianism in the contemporary society. Surprisingly, totalitarianism is not being practiced in communist countries like Russia and China alone. The threat of terrorism after the 9/11 has forced the US to adopt these practices. The United States has therefore become the new Oceania, and abandoned democratic ideals for totalitarian ones.

Works Cited

Bennett, John. Orwell’s 1984: Was Orwell Right? 2013. 7 November 2013 <http://www.ihr.org/jhr/v06/v06p–9_Bennett.html>.

Berkes. “Language as the “Ultimate Weapon” in Nineteen Eighty-Four.” 27 February 2000. Berkes. 7 November 2013 <http://www.berkes.ca/archive/berkes_1984_language.html>.

Chilton, Paul. Orwellian Language and the Media. London: Pluto Press, 1988.

Fincen. USA Patriot Act. 2001. 7 November 2013 <http://www.fincen.gov/statutes_regs/patriot/>.

Greenberg, Karen J. The Torture Debate in America. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2006.

Lewis, Florence and Peter Moss. The Tyranny of Language in Nineteen Eighty-Four in 1984. London: Comedia Publishing Group, 1983.

Monacellib. “1984 and Orwell’s Predictions.” 5 June 2011. Swsd. 7 November 2013 <www.swsd.k12.wa.us/…/Big_Brother_is_watching_you_articles.pdf >.

Orwell, George. Nineteen Eighty-Four. London: Penguin Books, 1949.

analysis of the Melbourne Recital Centre and the use of space and acoustics in its design.

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Art &Architecture

There are many architectural buildings, which are famous for their great designs. The Melbourne Recital Centre is known all over the world for its design as well as the acoustics it displays. This building has won many awards such as the Victorian Architecture Medal. According to Lefebvre Henri, space is an integral part of architecture, as is brings about social practice. For example, in music, there needs to be space, which is in line with reference systems. As a result of modernity, there have been great achievements in designing buildings, which have excellent space (Melbourne Recital Centre, 2011. 1).

This paper seeks to give a critical analysis of the Melbourne Recital Centre and the use of space and acoustics in its design.

Critical analysis of the Melbourne Recital Centre

The Recital Centre in Melbourne is famous, as it has numerous awards, in terms of its magnificent architecture. In the year 2009, it won the prestigious Public Buildings National Awards, which is a national award. The building has incorporated the latest trends in excellence as well as innovation. Acoustics is an integral part of this building as the architects made sure to incorporate this into the building. The designer of the building is Mc Dougall Raggatt Ashton, and the developer being Lease Lend Bovis. The building has been crafted in the most beautiful design ever witnessed in the city of Melbourne (Melbourne Recital Centre, 2011. 1). When it was being constructed, the developer and the designer made sure to incorporate elements of design as well as music.

The Recital Centre has made excellent use of space, which is an attribute that most of its guests seem to acknowledge. The size of the Recital Centre is four thousand square meters and only facilities, which are state of the art, have been used. Also, the performers at the recital Centre acknowledge the fact that it has incorporated the latest technology. This shows that this is indeed a great architecture building found in Melbourne city (Melbourne Recital Centre, 2011. 1). The architectural experience at the Recital Centre is one that has not been witnessed before. The building ensures that the boundaries of design are effectively crossed. It has made excellent use of architectural, interior and urban excellence.

Technical and aesthetic was the term used to describe the challenges incurred in the design. Most audiences and players believe that the halls of post war are extremely disappointing. This is according to the reference group, who had to give their opinions of this Recital Centre. The hall’s shape is typological and this is due to the elements, which the designers wanted to incorporate. Culture and history were the vocal points of this building as it was being designed. Also, there was a great need to ensure that during the music performance, the acoustic science would be realized. The modernistic geometry was used to come up with the Recital Centre’s shape. Also, it should be known that sightline diagrams were used, in order to ensure that functional analysis existed. The expression of neo-plastic and acoustic modeling was used, which in turn, ensured that space was effectively generated. The latter played a vital role in coming up with a magnificent Recital Centre, which did not look like the other traditional buildings in Melbourne.

When compared to other Recital Centre’s such as Concertgebouw, of the year 1883, by Van Gendt and Wigmore Hall of the year 1900, by Collcutt, the Recital Centre is perfect. In order to design the recital Centre at Melbourne, the latter two were used as benchmarks. These buildings were constructed during the 19th century and did not have as much technology or other assistance, which exists in today’s world. The Recital Centre has the shape of a shoe box and the advantage is that acoustic perfection is achieved through it. It is not easy for anyone to fail to recognize the box shape. Sound and surface, have been created as a result of the spectacle of room, which exists. In turn, a room –ness has been created at the Recital Centre (Ching, 2007. 68).

The Recital Centre has a stage and not a proscenium and this ensures that the audience and the performers are at similar locations. Box-ness has been created, which is extremely different from a box that is traditional. The space seen at the Recital Centre is symmetrical and the space complex as well (Melbourne Recital Centre, 2011. 1). There are no textured surfaces or panels, which are articulated, as it has been made to look like a room that is basic. Timber has been used at the Murdoch Elisabeth hall, which has created space, in an architectural manner. It has been described as being a suite that is extremely luxurious. The Recital Centre is known for the artistic programs, as well as architecture, which is uncompromising acoustic. This is the reason why it is on the list of the one of the greatest halls in the world.

At the Murdoch Elisabeth Hall, chamber music is the main appeal for audiences. The designer made sure that the players and the audiences are able to communicate intimately. Thus, during the performance, dynamics and intensity are shared well by the audience. Acoustic design and architecture has been fused throughout the entire hall. The concert hall is shaped, based upon a shoe box, which is classical. Acoustic intimacy has been created by the geometry for great performances (Lefebvre, 1991. 56). Also, the audience benefits from the increased sight lines.

A unique instrument has been formed by the interior made from timber. The purpose is to ensure that music performances are enhanced and complemented in accordance to the design. Organic texture has been used in the interior surfaces, which in turn ensures that the instruments are well enhanced. The rear wall and the upper surfaces have created an effect, which is pixilation that is often diffused. In turn, the hall is unique, due to its rich clarity, as well as the excellent strength. A bass response has been created as a result of the timber lining (Melbourne Recital Centre, 2011. 1). Bass and cello are heard well as the frequency produced is of high standards. The players at the hall are happy with their performances, which are enhanced by the design and architecture. Buildings should be designed in a manner, which should appeal to people. The work done by the team that came up should be commended. Also, the designer of the Recital Centre was inspired by theories of Michael Foucault (Defert, 1997.34). The latter is known for advocating for architects to use space when coming up with designs for buildings. All the elements of space were used in coming up with the design for the Melbourne Recital Centre.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Recital Centre at Melbourne is in line with the modernity concepts of architecture. The building has made excellent use of space to become what it is today. More architects should follow the footsteps of Mc Dougall Raggatt Ashton, who is a great designer. Indeed, use of space should be incorporated in coming up with buildings, that attract people’s attention.

Work Cited

Lefebvre, Henri. From the Production of Space. Translated by Donald Nicholson-Smith. Cambridge: Blackwell, 1991.Print.

Defert, Daniel. Foucault, Space and the Architects. Cantz Veleg, 1997.Print.

Melbourne Recital Centre, Retrieved from http://www.a-r-m.com.au/projects_mrc.html 2011.

Ching, Francis. Architecture: Form, Space and Order. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 2007.Print.

analysis of the book, Food Rules An Eater Manual by Michael Pollan.

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Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual

By Michael Pollan

In his book, Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual, Michael Pollan draws attention to America’s healthcare crisis, especially in relation to the diverse diseases that result from having a poor diet. The author introduces 64 rules related to eating, which he narrows down to three main concepts including; Eat Food, Mostly Plants, Not Too Much (Pollan 1-112). As observable in the three statements, the author explains to his readers to eat, though not too much, and most of all, to eat the foods that are mainly acquired from plants. The rules that Pollan presents in his book are based on traditional and cultural eating habits. His argument regarding his basis, is that the western culture is quickly becoming too concentrated on processed foods, which has in turn, been responsible for the deteriorating health of most people today. In essence, the book provides a guideline for attaining good and responsible eating habits for the individuals who are concerned about their health. (Pollan 1-112).

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the book, Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual by Michael Pollan. Specifically, the paper provides an analysis of the three statements, “Eat Food”, “Mostly Plants”, and “Not Too Much”, as presented in the novel.

Eat Food

The first statement that the author introduces to his readers is the concept of eating food. By this he means that people should engage in the practice of eating real food as opposed to food that has been processed (Bain 1). Accordingly, this statement has a strong link to Michael’s belief that people in the modern world are more accustomed to eating processed foods, instead of fresh food. He begins by warning his readers not to eat an food that their ancestors would not recognize as food. This builds on his argument regarding processed food whereby the modern day ‘foods’ have undergone too much processing that they can no longer be recognized as being food. Food rule number 22 states, “It’s not food if it arrived through the window of your car” (Pollan 1-112). With this, the author draws attention to the types of foods that individuals should eat and the types that they should not. This statement carries a lot of meaning for the readers, especially those that live in the urban cities. This is because such people rarely have the time to prepare good meals for themselves, and for that reason, end up ordering take out from restaurants. In his novel, the author argues that a meal can only be termed as good food if it has been prepared by the eater form the start to the finish.

Mostly Plants

In food rule number 19, the author states “If it came from a plant, eat it; if it was made in a plant, don’t” (Pollan 1-112). With this statement, the author urges his readers to put plants and other vegetables first in their list of foods to eat. He draws attention to the common practice of “nutritionism” whereby individuals focus more on the nutrients found in food, as opposed to the food on its own (Parker-Pope 1). He explains that by doing this, companies tend to process foods that are rich in particular nutrients, which at most times are not beneficial to the eater, hence leading to various kinds of diseases in the long run. The author recommends the consumption of fruits and vegetables that are fresh from the garden, and he believes that such foods are very nutritious ad they provide the nutritional supplements that individuals require for a healthy life. Though he recommends the consumption of vegetables, the author is also quick to state the benefit of other foods such as meats. He explains that there are some nutrients that foods such as meats provide and plats cannot.

Not Too Much

Another concept or eating habit that the author has introduced in this novel is what he terms as, Not Too Much. Principally, this statement examines the different manners of eating that individuals portray in their daily lives (Bain 1). He highlights a number of eating habits that individuals have today including eating at work, eating in when bored, and eating in excess among other things. The author condemns any person who overeats knowingly or unknowingly and urges such individuals to change their behaviors with regards to the consumption of food. In rule number 46 the author states, “Stop eating before you’re full and try to eat only to 67 to 80 percent capacity” (Pollan 1-112). This rule further explains the author’s views regarding good eating habits where he argues for reduced eating. Observably, this rule is about individuals being mindful of what they eat and how they eat it. As the author explains, most people hold the belief that they should eat until they are full, however, the author explains that this is the first step towards unhealthy eating habits. This is because hunger may sometimes be psychological, an eating to get full will therefore imply eating too much.

Work Cited

Bain, Jennifer. Michael Pollan Offers 64 Rules For Eating Well. The Star, 2 January 2010. Web.

26 January 2012 <<http://www.thestar.com/living/food/article/743865–michael-pollan-offers-64-rules-for-eating-well>>

Parker-Pope, Tara. Michael Pollan Offers 64 Ways To Eat Food. New York Times, 8 January

2010. Web. 26 January, 2012. << http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/08/michael-pollan-offers-64-ways-to-eat-food/>>

Pollan, Michael. Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual. New York: Penguin Group USA, 2009. Print.

Analysis of Michael Walzer’s opinions on the bombing of Horoshima by the United States of America in 1945

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Hiroshima Bombing

This paper gives a critical analysis of Michael Walzer’s opinions on the bombing of Horoshima by the United States of America in 1945. According to Walzer, this war was unjust. In fact, he argues that the attack did not meet the minimum requirements of the military morals. Unlike the Israel Six Day War, this was a punitive aggressive act exclusively meant to meet unjustified ends and cause agonies to the Japanese.

However, I would like to disagree with him by strongly suggesting that this action was justified. First, it would be the most appropriate way of forcing Japan to surrender without any delay. Otherwise, the fight would have continued for a very long time. This helped to save the lives of at least 200,000 Japanese and US soldiers who would have died in case the war continued.

In addition, it would help to counteract the already emerging tension in Europe under the umbrella of the United Socialist Soviet Republic (USSR). In order to convince Stalin to behave, it was necessary that such a force had to be used. This was a valid reason because it would pave the way for American dominance in this region. As we all understand, this was as important to the US government as saving the lives of its troops.

However, I also condemn this attack because it was not well intentioned, but only meant to bring Japan to its knees. Besides, we all know that the Americans are very aggressive. They always destroy the lives of innocent people in other nations to justify their own demands. This is one of those attacks. However, instead of acting so brutally, it would have teamed up with its allies to force Japan to surrender or sign a treaty. This would end the war without killing more people.

Analysis of Moral Absolutism and Moral Relativism according to Ruth Benedict and Christina Sommers

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Analysis of Moral Absolutism and Moral Relativism according to Ruth Benedict and Christina Sommers

Morality is often described as making sure that one always conforms to the rules that exist concerning conduct. However, a question that is often raised concerning morality is that, which person has the right to make rules. For example, a person who is religious will tend to claim God makes rules since he is the utmost authority regarding good conduct. However, it should be known that almost all absolute ethical theories, which philosophers developed, have no religious presuppositions. Even Aristotle claimed that the rights things are those, which are good for people as well as their states or countries. A person who is an absolutist claims that there will always be indisputable answers with regards to any moral questions that might arise. On the other hand, a person who is relativist believes that what a person thinks is right may not be the same for someone else. In this case, what is accepted in one culture may not be accepted in another culture and this philosophy is quite open. This paper seeks to give a critical analysis of why moral relativism is a philosophy that should be adapted as being universal as opposed to moral absolutism.

Ruth Benedict argues that people from various groups have their own unique views concerning morality. This depends on their environments and history, as well their different cultures. She believes that moral relativism is the proper way to view and focus on society’s morality. Benedict has been able to provide evidence in many instances as to why society will never have moral progress. For example, with regards to homosexuality, different cultures have their own stance concerning this issue. The cultural attitudes that people have concerning homosexuality has for a long time not been analyzed based on ethics. This is because homosexuality varies depending on the culture of an individual. Furthermore, different cultures have their own sets of customs and morals. An example is the Kwakiutl tribe who avenge the death of one of their people by killing other people. They rather choose to kill other people as opposed to mourning the dead person (Benedict 206). On the contrary, Americans would view this behavior of going to kill other human beings as being extreme and abnormal. The people from the Kwakiutl tribe would view their own behavior as being ‘normal’ and thus be honored because of their crude actions. It is evident from Benedict’s argument that there is no behavior, which is accepted universally. In addition, many people will be willing to take in anything that is presented to them. This explains the reason as to why moral relativism is far more powerful than moral progress according to Benedict.

Christina Hoff Sommers believes that the ozone has a moral hole and mostly, the United States has been affected because it has suffered from a cultural shift. Furthermore, with regards to absolutism, people need to always start with a foundational belief that a difference between wrong and right exists. America should be willing to believe in the values of absolutism, as even Thomas Jefferson made such claims. He believed that no human being can survive without the desire to gain the right to liberty and life as well the right to pursue happiness. He stated what he knew as opposed to giving his opinion regarding the issue; in this case, he declared a truth that was objective. According to Sommers, individuals need to be educated on the importance of moral education in order to efficiently embrace absolutism. It is no wonder she advocated for her belief on “moral education must have as its explicit aim the moral betterment of the student” (Sommers 390). Furthermore, young children should be instilled with moral education when they are quite young. Therefore, when they grow up, they will know how to differentiate between what is wrong and what is right.

The United States as well as the whole world is suffering from moral decay, as people are not aware of the value of absolutism. According to this philosophy, any innocent life that is taken by an individual is regarded as being morally wrong. People who go by this philosophy acknowledge the fact that it is wrong to abuse children, to steal or even lie, and these values are accepted all over the world. It is recommended that an absolutist needs to be mature in order to effectively understand that despite the fact that they do not have answers to everything, the answers still exist. They have to ensure that they learn about what is good and people will always disagree at one point. In this case, it is evident that absolutism and relativism will never accept each other’s philosophies (Irvine 42).

In my opinion, I concur with the argument provided by Benedict concerning moral relativism as opposed to the issue on moral progress. Every society has its unique ethics and morals that are accepted among its people. The society accepted marijuana even before it was legalized, but after it was criminalized, people viewed it in a negative light. Those people who use marijuana were thus viewed as being deviants of society. In this modern era, America is still deciding on whether it wants marijuana to be legalized and this often leads to the question of morality. If it were to be legalized, would it mean that steps were being made towards moral relativism or moral progress? This means that people have not made progress, but they are accepting things that are happening at the time. Moral neutrality has to exist so that people do not impose their personal views or their judgments. People should always have a neutral stand even when they are busy convicting others. If this takes place, cultures will be able to tolerate each other and thus not judge each other harshly.

In conclusion, attitudes are changing quite fast and it was the norm for an absolutist to see the wrong and right of any moral issue. Currently, people who claim to be secular are the ones who are non-judgmental and willing to tolerate behavior that is repugnant. This norm is at the moment under attack because society is now accepting deviant behavior that was earlier on not considered as being normal. People need to ensure that they make moral decisions and speak the truth as well as acknowledge the fact that others can sometimes make wrong decisions. Relativists should also reflect on their philosophy and ensure that people know the right things, thus, the world will be better than it is today. Indeed, moral relativism as portrayed by Ruth Benedict is more appealing as opposed to moral absolutism by Christina Sommers.

Works Cited

Benedict, R. A Defense of Moral Relativism. The Journal of General Psychology , 10 (1934): 204-213.

Irvine, W. Confronting Relativism. Academic Questions, 14, 1 (2001): 42.

Sommers, C. Are we living in a moral stone age? New York: Kirkpatrick Signature Series Reader, 2008.Print.

Tyrant TV Series Analysis

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Tyrant TV Series Analysis

Hegemony has been a trend of leadership mostly in the nations from the East. Generations have been made to grow up accepting and adhering to these philosophies, notwithstanding the change in the arrangement of initiative delineated by countries from different areas of the world. This paper is going to talk about a film whereby the majority rule government is the guideline of law, to a few countries apportionment has never been a decision. Their social and political conviction has made them adhere to their lifestyle. It is in such countries that the part and worth of a lady have not yet been increased in value. Ladies are still viewed as subordinate to men; they have not been given an equivalent risk as far as choice making. Some have been abused sexually without getting equity. Similarly invested people have attempted to emerge and change the circumstances however their voice has constantly wound up being smothered by the oppression tenet. There has dependably been the decision class and the rest. This circumstance is best delineated in the TV Series “Tyrant” by Gideon Raff.

Dictator, a film about being a Centre East Guardian, includes two fundamental characters that are Adam Ryner by the name ‘Bassam’. He speaks to the informed class that has confidence in vote based system and human rights. His sibling Ashraf Barhom by the name “Jamal” speaks to the present state of affairs that needs to proceed with the standard and maintain the autocracy and uncivilized nature of his father. It is a genuine impression of the family, political and social wrangles that happen in many countries of the East. It likewise reflects at the anguish continued on by regular folks generally ladies and youngsters who are intended to experience hard time for the purpose of survival. The impact of America as a country on the political and social life of the Centre East nations is additionally apparent (Raff, Gideon et al. ‘Tyrant TV Series 2014, episode 1).

Bassam, a child of the imperial family and the decision class picks not to become in the methods for his father by choosing to go to America where he gets instruction and turns into an expert specialist. He becomes under a fair society carrying on with the American lifestyle. It is amid his time there that he gets a wife and a family including a child and little girl. Both have been raised in an alternate way of life and know minimal about their homeland. Bassam knowing extremely well about the sort of fascism life back in his local home picks not to advise his family anything including it and continues reminding them that their house is in America. At that point comes a period when he needs to return to his local home in the Centre East to go to a family wedding. He is not happy with the calling however has no decision yet to convey his family with him. It is likewise a flawless open door for his wife and youngsters visit their relative. At last, it just so happens to be more than simply a typical visit since his father bites the dust amid that time along these lines he needs to stay longer. Political pressure emerges and makes him mull over backpedalling to America. At long last, he chooses to stay keeping in mind the end goal to help his sibling administer the country in the wake of assuming control from his late father (Raff, Gideon et al. ‘Tyrant TV Series 2014, episode 5).

Bassam tries to persuade his sibling another arrangement of administration that includes majority rule government and human right adherence, yet society sticking does not make a difference. Jamal, having been raised in a remorseless type of initiative promises to copy his father with a specific end goal to abstain from being known as a chicken heart. As a consequence of the distinctive methods for methodology to matters including their general public, a clash of investment rises and Bassam tries to topple his sibling’s rule. This is for the sake of sparing him from his savagery that may in the long run conflict with him. In spite of the distinctions, Jamal’s trust towards his sibling is clear as he counsels him on key choice making issues furthermore takes after his sibling’s conclusion at the cost of that of his legitimate consultants. Jamal delineates a ruler who has inherited the sort of guideline from his father. He uses power to manage any clash that emerges.

When demonstrations are held in the streets, Jamal deploys the military to calm them down without necessarily listening to their plight. His brother Bassan tells him to be close to the people, listen to them more and try to use democracy in solving issues. He even has to convince him to set up a term for leadership and a free and fair election. As it is evident, Bassam is trying to integrate the American culture to his homeland. His ideas are great, but to a society that does not understand peace and democracy, counter –hegemony proves to be a hard thing to integrate. On one occasion where Jamal the president and his brother Bassam decide to go to address the citizens over a mass protest, they encounter a hostile rebellion. The presidential motorcade is stoned(Raff, Gideon et al. ‘Tyrant TV Series 2014, episode 6). This forces Jamal to order the police to shoot the people attacking them as they drive away from the crowd. He then tells his brother that things cannot work the American way.

Bassam finally decides to take his cause. He gathers like-minded individuals from his brother’s army men and advisors and tries to convince them to overturn his brother’s reign with the aim of bringing order and a new form of leadership. This attempt depicts the western orientalism over the Middle East nations. In this case, the west is in attempt to ‘Westernize’ the East. The western nations have always had their opinion towards the ruling governments of the Middle East. They have frequently tried to impose their will on them by indirectly fighting the dictators from power and overturning their rule. Resistance has always led to conflict and war in an attempt by the leaders to secure their reign.

In all this conflict of interest, the myth of power that is behind the ruling class and inheritance of power, there has always been a group that has suffered more that being women and children. In the film ‘Tyrant’, women go through lots of sexual harassment and experiences several family challenges. Jamal, who is depicted as a dictator chooses to have a relationship with any woman despite their marital status (Raff, Gideon et al. ‘Tyrant TV Series 2014, episode 7). The husband of the woman has to bring her wife to the palace in which Jamal harassed her sexually. She is then taken back home by her husband. There is nowhere to report such and therefore the couple has to keep it to themselves or face a serious punishment. Jamal goes to the extent of sleeping with his son’s bride on the wedding day claiming that it is their culture to ensure the woman is pure before being married to the royal family. These incidences go unreported and as the husbands are killed in various circumstances by the government the burden of upbringing of the family remains to the woman. They do not even have a source of livelihood. It results to a life of poverty and hence has to rely on the government for survival.

In the end, Bassam on his failed attempt to overturn the leadership of his brother ends up being jailed and awaits punishment. Anyone who dares to go against the dictatorship rule ends up suffering; this creates fear to individuals who want to bring any form of liberation to the nation. The occurrences of this film are a clear reflection of what transpires in many nations ruled under dictatorship.Work cited:

Gramsci, Antonio.  “Hegemony, Intellectuals and the State.”  Storey, John, ed.  Cultural Theory and Popular Culture: A Reader.  NY: Harvester Wheatsheaf, 1994: 215-21.

Raff, Gideon et al. ‘Tyrant (TV Series 2014– )’. IMDb. N.p., 2014. Web. 17 Nov. 2014.

Tyrant. America: Gideon Raff, 2014. film. Retrieved from http://www.tvmuse.com/tv-shows/Tyrant_36559/. on Dec 15, 2014.

Story Analysis

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Story Analysis

The degree of attention given to people matters. The story builds on how the women have attention to things happening as compared to the children. Illusions being a factor to consider scares many people. People, specifically mothers, feel insecure about their safety as well as their children. The story builds on different perceptions held out by the personas in the story. She is not cautious in her speech while the other women worry if the children might listen to their conversation.

Attention to humanity is a key feature in today’s lives. The kid noticed that the woman is missing the fact that other people had ignored. The child finds out that the woman who went into the forest never came, he says, “That woman never came back”, “I watched for her, and she never came”. The clarity of children mind defines them being the most humane creature. The feeling of care towards someone is an act of generosity.Being there for someone is humane. Taking risks to get someone out of danger is a great act of generosity and care. The story defines personas as being generous and kind as they go to look for the unknown woman. The woman in the team asks the way the lady went shows concern as she says, “Which way did she go?”, “did you find her”. Contrary, some show no interest in it highlighting the nature of the unjust, unkind and heartless human creatures to exist. The speaker highlights that others entered into their car showing no interest or concern; some stayed at the edge of the field full of fear of getting lost.

The art of living your own life and enjoying the little thing you have is evident. The famous artist with her lavish lifestyle attracted jealousy to the persona of the story. Living a life full of illusions is a dangerous thing to do. Having a life full of maidens always acting at your command portrays dictatorship. The woman in the story had posse and a bunch of free spirits, among others making her issue the command to them as they act as her slaves. “Go get me carved oak dresser….”, this shows the life lived by most people below the feet of others acting brutally to them. A life full of immorality and deception is depicted in the story. The’ posse’ could rob homes and bring out valued possessions. This defines jealousy and lust from the persona. She admires the life full of crime, sexual immorality and above all, power. Being wild for the persona is a personality she admires.in the darkness she enjoys being in the dark as she switches off the light. She claims that it felt so nice and calmer being there alone in the forest as it felt it was home to her. “The wood didn’t feel dangerous; I liked it in the woods”. Being wild is a dangerous virtue, better be ethical in life.

The story brings about the beliefs of different people. Persona J feels like some people might be alive and dead at the same time. She is an illusionist as she comes up with different perceptions about the subject. She claims that “it wouldn’t take long for a body to become forest again”—standing firm to what you believe is important as it defines your true position and perception towards life. Great things happen to people as they stand firm to their beliefs; this may, however, destroy or build their personality greatly. In a group of people lays out many opinions about an instance. The story defines how the women have a different perception on the disappearance of the lady in the trees.one should always practice patience with others during a conversation because no matter the age bracket, maturity varies. In the story, J seems to be living in her world full of fantasies and great illusions of how things happen. She speaks of a scary thing to the others, and this startles them. “I’m telling you something wonderful, don’t make it dreary please”. In conclusion, it is all about what people define in a situation. The different fears experienced by people might be illusions created in mind.

Reference Article

Hunt, Story by Samantha. “Go, Team.” The Atlantic, Atlantic Media Company, 14 Feb. 2020, www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/03/samantha-hunt-go-team/605554/.