Our blog topic for this week is to discuss Capitalism. The good and the bad! Capitalism is defined by Wikipedia as "considered by scholars to be an economic system that includes private ownership of the means of production, creation of goods or services for profit or income, the accumulation of capital, competitive markets, voluntary exchange, and wage labor."
Some Pros of Capitalism
You are free to make your own choices (right or wrong) in the market place.
You own your life and the means to produce for your life.
You can choose to run your own business or get a job with ease of government regulation.
You get the highest quality of products for the cheapest prices.
You get the highest variety of the types of goods and services you can purchase.
You are free to innovate and invent without the government getting in your way.
You don't have to pay taxes beyond that of the basics to protect your rights
You have the right to own property and develop it as you choose
You have the right to earn as much money as you want
Capitalism has given the highest standards of living
The Cons of Capitalism
There are no cons. Stop being a communist.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Globalization
Happy Easter everyone. I don't have eggs, unfortunately. Anyways, the blog topic this week is: the pros and cons of Globalization. Globalization is defined as: the increasingly global relationships of culture, people, and economic activity. Basically, it brings the world together and what not, typically through technological means.
I think globalization is good, but of course there are bad things about it too. We learned in sociology class that it is a means of the "satanic capitalists" to exploit the weaker, poorer, foreigners to do a lot of work for little pay. Still, that's typically better than what they get. The little pay they receive is enough for them to live, and they accept those conditions for a reason. Their economy gets better because more jobs are available for them. So even though they are taken advantage of, they benefit in the end.
Also, the world integrates together and becomes closer. Trade is built up. Anyone can communicate with anyone no matter how far a person is. When added all together, the pros of globalization is just better than the cons. It just is.
I think globalization is good, but of course there are bad things about it too. We learned in sociology class that it is a means of the "satanic capitalists" to exploit the weaker, poorer, foreigners to do a lot of work for little pay. Still, that's typically better than what they get. The little pay they receive is enough for them to live, and they accept those conditions for a reason. Their economy gets better because more jobs are available for them. So even though they are taken advantage of, they benefit in the end.
Also, the world integrates together and becomes closer. Trade is built up. Anyone can communicate with anyone no matter how far a person is. When added all together, the pros of globalization is just better than the cons. It just is.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Poorness
Hey guys!
An important part of sociology is the discussion of poverty. The culture of poverty is a theory that describes poverty as a never-ending cycle. Many sociologists believe that people are stuck in it for their entire lives and the generations after, while others believe it's only temporary and easy to break out of.
People in poverty are born into it. They accept it as a part of them, and do not think they can get out. Thus, they act the part and assume their role. They are socialized into it. This sparks the cycle which the underclass is stuck in. This means if you have poor parents, you're bound to be poor, and your children, etc.
I don't believe that poverty is a never ending cycle. If you're determined to break your role, you can. Celebrities do it all the time, srsly.
An important part of sociology is the discussion of poverty. The culture of poverty is a theory that describes poverty as a never-ending cycle. Many sociologists believe that people are stuck in it for their entire lives and the generations after, while others believe it's only temporary and easy to break out of.
People in poverty are born into it. They accept it as a part of them, and do not think they can get out. Thus, they act the part and assume their role. They are socialized into it. This sparks the cycle which the underclass is stuck in. This means if you have poor parents, you're bound to be poor, and your children, etc.
I don't believe that poverty is a never ending cycle. If you're determined to break your role, you can. Celebrities do it all the time, srsly.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
STUFF
Hey guys! So this week my blog is about the sociological perspective to discuss forces and institutions that shape the popular culture.
WELL. Like Omar, I'm going to discuss the High Culture (capital letters for emphasis). What is the high culture, you ask? I shall tell you, good reader!
High culture refers to the culture of the elite. They are the refined, educated, and let's not forget... wealthy!
So basically, high culture is the culture of the super rich.
The term was introduced by Matthew Arnold. The theory that a high culture exists describes it as the best, most refined culture. Everyone else is common folk. Those of the high culture run everything, while we follow like cattle. This fits hand in hand with the Elite Theory.
The Elite Theory contends that a small minority--the super rich and elite--holds the most power and basically run everything.
So, how does this apply to the topic? Well, the high culture (super rich) decide what is popular. The high culture decides what is portrayed through the media. The high culture creates institutions that the common folk use.
Common trends in art and music is decided by the high culture. After they do it, then the popular culture wants it. Look at those expensive designer clothes/purses poor women (like my mother -_- ) want so badly. They see the high culture women wearing them first.
WELL. Like Omar, I'm going to discuss the High Culture (capital letters for emphasis). What is the high culture, you ask? I shall tell you, good reader!
High culture refers to the culture of the elite. They are the refined, educated, and let's not forget... wealthy!
So basically, high culture is the culture of the super rich.
The term was introduced by Matthew Arnold. The theory that a high culture exists describes it as the best, most refined culture. Everyone else is common folk. Those of the high culture run everything, while we follow like cattle. This fits hand in hand with the Elite Theory.
The Elite Theory contends that a small minority--the super rich and elite--holds the most power and basically run everything.
So, how does this apply to the topic? Well, the high culture (super rich) decide what is popular. The high culture decides what is portrayed through the media. The high culture creates institutions that the common folk use.
Common trends in art and music is decided by the high culture. After they do it, then the popular culture wants it. Look at those expensive designer clothes/purses poor women (like my mother -_- ) want so badly. They see the high culture women wearing them first.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Symbolic Interactionism
Symbolic interactionism.
For starters, let me explain the definition of our topic this week. Symbolic interactionism is a sociological theory that "places emphasis on micro-scale social interaction to provide subjective meaning in human behavior."
That sounds like giberish. Basically, symbolic interaction portrays a family as a unit of interacting "personalities." It describes the ways that people interact through "symbols" (such as words, gestures, rules, and roles).
It was developed by Herbert Blumer. He set three basic ideas of the perspective:
-"Humans act toward things on the basis of the meanings they ascribe to those things."
-"The meaning of such things is derived from, or arises out of, the social interaction that one has with others and society."
-"These meanings are handled in, and modified through, an interpretive process used by the person in dealing with the things he/she encounters."
So, society supplies you with a role, and you act accordingly or "deviantly." By integrating ourselves into society and learning how to interact with others and our roles, we develop our sense of self.
In my opinion, symbolic interactionism is a justified part of sociology. Even if the theory lends itself to psychology, it explains how people act and why. Seeing as sociology is the study of the functioning of human society, this seems like a pretty important aspect of that (understanding why people act the way they do/how they are integrated in society and their roles.)
For starters, let me explain the definition of our topic this week. Symbolic interactionism is a sociological theory that "places emphasis on micro-scale social interaction to provide subjective meaning in human behavior."
That sounds like giberish. Basically, symbolic interaction portrays a family as a unit of interacting "personalities." It describes the ways that people interact through "symbols" (such as words, gestures, rules, and roles).
It was developed by Herbert Blumer. He set three basic ideas of the perspective:
-"Humans act toward things on the basis of the meanings they ascribe to those things."
-"The meaning of such things is derived from, or arises out of, the social interaction that one has with others and society."
-"These meanings are handled in, and modified through, an interpretive process used by the person in dealing with the things he/she encounters."
So, society supplies you with a role, and you act accordingly or "deviantly." By integrating ourselves into society and learning how to interact with others and our roles, we develop our sense of self.
In my opinion, symbolic interactionism is a justified part of sociology. Even if the theory lends itself to psychology, it explains how people act and why. Seeing as sociology is the study of the functioning of human society, this seems like a pretty important aspect of that (understanding why people act the way they do/how they are integrated in society and their roles.)
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Functionalism vs Marxism
So. Functionalism vs Marxism... which will withstand our rapidly changing society?
I don't think it's that tough of a question, really. Especially considering Marxism SUCKS.
Okay, so, to explain... Functionalism is a theory by Durkheim that says that everyone and everything in society serves a function. It describes the roles each person places (employee, student, parent, etc). Functionalism also describes how we are socialized and begin to learn the norms and values of society through contact with others in the society to be normal people. So, basically, it explains what functions we serve and how we've become the way we are.
Marxism is a more retarded theory by some freaky communist who predicts that the workers of society will realize they're being exploited and resort to communism. He thinks capitalism is the root of all evil, blah, blah, blah. He's crazy. Like, Marxism isn't even worth explaining. But because I have to, it's just: Capitalism is the spawn of Satan. Workers are exploited by the rich. They'll overthrow them. Communist, classless, "equal" society results.
That STILL hasn't come true and it's nowhere near close to how our society is today.
So functionalism FTW.
I don't think it's that tough of a question, really. Especially considering Marxism SUCKS.
Okay, so, to explain... Functionalism is a theory by Durkheim that says that everyone and everything in society serves a function. It describes the roles each person places (employee, student, parent, etc). Functionalism also describes how we are socialized and begin to learn the norms and values of society through contact with others in the society to be normal people. So, basically, it explains what functions we serve and how we've become the way we are.
Marxism is a more retarded theory by some freaky communist who predicts that the workers of society will realize they're being exploited and resort to communism. He thinks capitalism is the root of all evil, blah, blah, blah. He's crazy. Like, Marxism isn't even worth explaining. But because I have to, it's just: Capitalism is the spawn of Satan. Workers are exploited by the rich. They'll overthrow them. Communist, classless, "equal" society results.
That STILL hasn't come true and it's nowhere near close to how our society is today.
So functionalism FTW.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
ONLINE CLASSES
Online classes... I dreaded the word a few months ago. Personally, online classes seemed much more horrible to me than real classes. Why? It's like homework you HAVE to do (and at home, nonetheless!) It was just extra work on top of in-school work, and it wasn't something I felt like dealing with... (also why I was afraid of STEP-UP at first)
However, I've grown to accept them more. Online classes are actually quite handy.
For one, as a STEP-UPper, I can do them in school, which means no take-home-y-ness.
Secondly, it's much easier to help yourself and your friends. AKA cheat.
Really, does anyone not cheat with online work...
You can use each other's exact assignments and even take tests together. Can't do that in a real classroom setting. Well, you can... but it's harder. Cheating on tests is risky business that I don't even bother with in school. Homework, on the other hand...
Still, you'd have to write it out for class, whereas online you just copy and paste.
ANYWAY.
I'd say those are huge pros.
(Btw, in case my online teacher sees this... I'm totally lying. Like, trying to get in the mind of dirty cheaters. I would never, personally!)
Oh, and it's really flexible. I can do my online work whenever I want. And there's no deadlines!! I love that.
So while online work may be extra work on top of school, it's flexibility vs classroom setting makes less hellish.
However, I've grown to accept them more. Online classes are actually quite handy.
For one, as a STEP-UPper, I can do them in school, which means no take-home-y-ness.
Secondly, it's much easier to help yourself and your friends. AKA cheat.
Really, does anyone not cheat with online work...
You can use each other's exact assignments and even take tests together. Can't do that in a real classroom setting. Well, you can... but it's harder. Cheating on tests is risky business that I don't even bother with in school. Homework, on the other hand...
Still, you'd have to write it out for class, whereas online you just copy and paste.
ANYWAY.
I'd say those are huge pros.
(Btw, in case my online teacher sees this... I'm totally lying. Like, trying to get in the mind of dirty cheaters. I would never, personally!)
Oh, and it's really flexible. I can do my online work whenever I want. And there's no deadlines!! I love that.
So while online work may be extra work on top of school, it's flexibility vs classroom setting makes less hellish.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
TECHNOLOGY FTW
Technology is defined as " Machinery and equipment developed from such scientific knowledge."
While some (haters) may claim that technology is only a distraction, that's not true. Yes, it has its flaws. However, no one can deny the usefulness of it.
My parents can say,"Back in my day, I had to go to the library and..." Yes, that's all good and well for them. But I'm getting the same information they did from books (even more, actually) through the internet.
For example, whenever I'm in school, sometimes a word or term pops up in our lesson that no one knows. But as STEP-UP, we pull out our i-pads, and simply look up the term. This is actually very handy.
If I have an essay to type up, I can do it in Ms. Basi's (wooo. She's awesome!) class using either a computer or an i-pad. I can also easily go on my online classes and do work in school.
People DO use their technological devices for "evil" often (texting, Facebook, etc), but the benfits outweigh the good. Technology simply makes our lives easier.
While some (haters) may claim that technology is only a distraction, that's not true. Yes, it has its flaws. However, no one can deny the usefulness of it.
My parents can say,"Back in my day, I had to go to the library and..." Yes, that's all good and well for them. But I'm getting the same information they did from books (even more, actually) through the internet.
For example, whenever I'm in school, sometimes a word or term pops up in our lesson that no one knows. But as STEP-UP, we pull out our i-pads, and simply look up the term. This is actually very handy.
If I have an essay to type up, I can do it in Ms. Basi's (wooo. She's awesome!) class using either a computer or an i-pad. I can also easily go on my online classes and do work in school.
People DO use their technological devices for "evil" often (texting, Facebook, etc), but the benfits outweigh the good. Technology simply makes our lives easier.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Getting Rich the Ninja Way
From rags to riches. Okay, so I struggled with myself, wondering who I could write about. After some intense... thinking (or Google-searching and picking the first link), I found Steven Spielberg.
Yes, the film director!
In my opinion, Spielberg is a total ninja. You'll understand after I explain his story.
He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, brought into his world by his mother Leah Adler and Arnold Spielberg. He saw his first film in Haddon Township, New Jersey. Eventually, Spielberg made his own amateur films with his friends. The films were shot at a restaurant, and the admission was only 25 cents.
Unfortunately (or fortunately?), Spielberg didn't make the cut for filmaking school. Instead, he went to the California State College in Long Beach.
Luckily for him, during one casual visit to the Universal Studios, Spielberg met with Shuck Silvers. Silvers was an executive in the editorial department, who liked Spielberg enough to invite him back sometime.
Spielberg came back the very next day, without a previous appointment (officially). He wore a dark suit and carried a suitcase to look professional, while the suitcase only had sandwiches and candy. However, with his confident walk, he was able to get in without the security guard asking who he was.
(See? How ninja is that? Sandwiches and candy... that's the only reason why I chose to write about him.)
Spielberg continued to show up for the entire summer, becoming friends with all of the directors and writers, learning from them. He found an abandoned office within the place, and made it his own, even putting his name in the building directory. Steven Spielberg, Room 23C.
After 10 years, Spielberg directed Jaws. The movie was a huge hit, becoming the highest-grossing movie of all time (back then). Then, he made more movies and became even richer. The end!
Yes, the film director!
In my opinion, Spielberg is a total ninja. You'll understand after I explain his story.
He was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, brought into his world by his mother Leah Adler and Arnold Spielberg. He saw his first film in Haddon Township, New Jersey. Eventually, Spielberg made his own amateur films with his friends. The films were shot at a restaurant, and the admission was only 25 cents.
Unfortunately (or fortunately?), Spielberg didn't make the cut for filmaking school. Instead, he went to the California State College in Long Beach.
Luckily for him, during one casual visit to the Universal Studios, Spielberg met with Shuck Silvers. Silvers was an executive in the editorial department, who liked Spielberg enough to invite him back sometime.
Spielberg came back the very next day, without a previous appointment (officially). He wore a dark suit and carried a suitcase to look professional, while the suitcase only had sandwiches and candy. However, with his confident walk, he was able to get in without the security guard asking who he was.
(See? How ninja is that? Sandwiches and candy... that's the only reason why I chose to write about him.)
Spielberg continued to show up for the entire summer, becoming friends with all of the directors and writers, learning from them. He found an abandoned office within the place, and made it his own, even putting his name in the building directory. Steven Spielberg, Room 23C.
After 10 years, Spielberg directed Jaws. The movie was a huge hit, becoming the highest-grossing movie of all time (back then). Then, he made more movies and became even richer. The end!
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Social Stratification
Stratification is defined as the "act or process or arranging of persons into classes or social strata" by dictionary definition. Stratification is actually a pretty wide concept. Thus, we break it up into different elements, including: inequality. Yeah, you hear inequality talk everywhere but... you're gonna hear it again.
Inequality is the act of people being better placed in society over others, and signals which group these people belong to. You'll find that people in the same group often share similar characteristics (culture, interests, life chances).
The first division is class. The UK's statistics show that the higher a class one is born into, the higher chances they have of surviving in their first year of birth, perform in school, live longer, and retain their natural teeth (woah, weird). The more wealth one has, the more they can afford. They can afford better schooling, health care, etc.
The next division is gender. Gender's only recently considered a part of stratification, but it's been an issue for quite a long time. Despite there being more women than men within the US, they still have generally a less successful life and less power than the men. Also, they tend to earn less than men, and are outnumbered in important positions.
Ethnicity is another dimension of stratification. There are obvious differences in the economic and social standing between ethnic groups. Prejudice is still quite strong today, and many people do not get the positions they deserve or the same exact chances due to their ethnicity.
Age is the final one (at least that I'll bring up). The youngest and the oldest hold the least power within our society (though in other parts of the world, the elderly are well respected). No matter your age, there is someone who considers your wisdom not wisdom-y enough because you're either too young or too old. Certain buildings and organizations do not allow children, as well (as another example of the age factor).
That's really all I have to say. Social divisions may suck, but I don't really see how there's any other way.
Inequality is the act of people being better placed in society over others, and signals which group these people belong to. You'll find that people in the same group often share similar characteristics (culture, interests, life chances).
The first division is class. The UK's statistics show that the higher a class one is born into, the higher chances they have of surviving in their first year of birth, perform in school, live longer, and retain their natural teeth (woah, weird). The more wealth one has, the more they can afford. They can afford better schooling, health care, etc.
The next division is gender. Gender's only recently considered a part of stratification, but it's been an issue for quite a long time. Despite there being more women than men within the US, they still have generally a less successful life and less power than the men. Also, they tend to earn less than men, and are outnumbered in important positions.
Ethnicity is another dimension of stratification. There are obvious differences in the economic and social standing between ethnic groups. Prejudice is still quite strong today, and many people do not get the positions they deserve or the same exact chances due to their ethnicity.
Age is the final one (at least that I'll bring up). The youngest and the oldest hold the least power within our society (though in other parts of the world, the elderly are well respected). No matter your age, there is someone who considers your wisdom not wisdom-y enough because you're either too young or too old. Certain buildings and organizations do not allow children, as well (as another example of the age factor).
That's really all I have to say. Social divisions may suck, but I don't really see how there's any other way.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
PRESSUREPRESSUREPRESSURE
As teenagers, we're pressured a lot. We're expected to do and be many things.
Like what? Well, there's school-related pressures. My mom always says "School is your job." She emphasizes on it a lot. Don't slack, don't wait till the last minute, work hard, study hard, blah, blah (if you read this somehow, mudder, I love you... you don't sound like "blah blah," you sound like "bruck yuh stupidee." =D ) Many of our parents want us to be doctors or lawyers. We just have to do well in school. Our entire lives depend on it, they say. If we slack now, we'll end up as a bum later. Pass the SAT and ACT with flying colors. Get Straight A's. God forbid, don't ever be late to class or get in trouble. There is a lot of pressure on good behavior in school. Then, go to college and get a freaking awesome degree (in something practical, of course).
Needless to say, there's a lot of pressure from our parents, family, and teachers to exceed in school. Everything depends on it. I have to admit, I'm a little intimidated by all of it. I think many of us are.
Then, there's social pressures. Peer pressure. I can't really say I'm ever pressured into anything specifically. I suppose social pressures would include fitting in (not being too outrageous), being polite, not being too anti-social, not being too social or clingy.. There are typical examples of peer pressure such as "drink this! ALCOHOL IS FOR COOL PEOPLE" or "LET'S ALL GET HIGH. I BELIEVE I CAN FLLYYYYYYYYYYYY," but like my fellow Step-Up..er Claude says, not all peer pressure is negative. You could influence a friend to stop these bad habits as well. And, let's face it, we all attempt to sway people to do certain things. Social pressures such as not acting like a rude jerk isn't such a bad thing.
Like what? Well, there's school-related pressures. My mom always says "School is your job." She emphasizes on it a lot. Don't slack, don't wait till the last minute, work hard, study hard, blah, blah (if you read this somehow, mudder, I love you... you don't sound like "blah blah," you sound like "bruck yuh stupidee." =D ) Many of our parents want us to be doctors or lawyers. We just have to do well in school. Our entire lives depend on it, they say. If we slack now, we'll end up as a bum later. Pass the SAT and ACT with flying colors. Get Straight A's. God forbid, don't ever be late to class or get in trouble. There is a lot of pressure on good behavior in school. Then, go to college and get a freaking awesome degree (in something practical, of course).
Needless to say, there's a lot of pressure from our parents, family, and teachers to exceed in school. Everything depends on it. I have to admit, I'm a little intimidated by all of it. I think many of us are.
Then, there's social pressures. Peer pressure. I can't really say I'm ever pressured into anything specifically. I suppose social pressures would include fitting in (not being too outrageous), being polite, not being too anti-social, not being too social or clingy.. There are typical examples of peer pressure such as "drink this! ALCOHOL IS FOR COOL PEOPLE" or "LET'S ALL GET HIGH. I BELIEVE I CAN FLLYYYYYYYYYYYY," but like my fellow Step-Up..er Claude says, not all peer pressure is negative. You could influence a friend to stop these bad habits as well. And, let's face it, we all attempt to sway people to do certain things. Social pressures such as not acting like a rude jerk isn't such a bad thing.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
I HATE MYSELF.
For some reason, many teens are afflicted with self-hate. Maybe you're not tall enough. Or skinny enough. Smart enough. Maybe you just plain suck. How do you deal with it? You don't know how. You don't know what to do. You just take your hate out on yourself.
(I don't really think you suck. I love you... the "you" wasn't as in "you" who's reading this but...yeah)
My group (Sydney, Tajin, myself) is researching the connection between popular culture and teen depression.
For example, women are objectified in the media. We all know this. We're supposed to be these lovely, beautiful, perfect creatures. But beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes in real life. However, because of the way we're portrayed on-screen, men and women alike expect differently. The scale of beauty is a 90lb, 6ft supermodel for everyone.
How do teenage girls react to this, not being able to live up to those standards?
Well, by puking their lungs out, of course.
Another example is the emo subculture.
Emos are stereotyped for cutting themselves. Cutting is a type of self injury. The emo subculture glorifies cutting, and celebrates it as "okay." No, it's really not okay. But that's popular culture for you, glorifying what (in reality) is a stupid mistake.
And, come on, let's not forget cyber-bullying. Popular media such as facebook easily allows this.
The topic may sound a bit vague now, but we plan on pulling it together more within our actual project.
Within the U.S., one in every 200 girls between 13 and 19 cut themselves, compromising 70 percent of girls who self injure.
90% of those with eating disorders are women between 12 and 25. Thousands of boys are afflicted with these disorders as well (but it's mostly women).
I'd rather not continue blatantly copying statistics off of websites, so instead, I'll link it to you.
http://www.teendepression.org/stats/teenage-depression-statistics/
(I don't really think you suck. I love you... the "you" wasn't as in "you" who's reading this but...yeah)
My group (Sydney, Tajin, myself) is researching the connection between popular culture and teen depression.
For example, women are objectified in the media. We all know this. We're supposed to be these lovely, beautiful, perfect creatures. But beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes in real life. However, because of the way we're portrayed on-screen, men and women alike expect differently. The scale of beauty is a 90lb, 6ft supermodel for everyone.
How do teenage girls react to this, not being able to live up to those standards?
Well, by puking their lungs out, of course.
Another example is the emo subculture.
Emos are stereotyped for cutting themselves. Cutting is a type of self injury. The emo subculture glorifies cutting, and celebrates it as "okay." No, it's really not okay. But that's popular culture for you, glorifying what (in reality) is a stupid mistake.
And, come on, let's not forget cyber-bullying. Popular media such as facebook easily allows this.
The topic may sound a bit vague now, but we plan on pulling it together more within our actual project.
Within the U.S., one in every 200 girls between 13 and 19 cut themselves, compromising 70 percent of girls who self injure.
90% of those with eating disorders are women between 12 and 25. Thousands of boys are afflicted with these disorders as well (but it's mostly women).
I'd rather not continue blatantly copying statistics off of websites, so instead, I'll link it to you.
http://www.teendepression.org/stats/teenage-depression-statistics/
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Blue Tape.... is actual Blue tape!
Okay, so my blog this week is about blue tape. Broward County School teachers are being forced to use blue tape in their classrooms. Now, when I heard people talking about it, and how schools are enforcing it, I thought, "woah, what is this??" Especially when I read Gadiel's blog. And my mind was BLOWN when I found out...
BLUE TAPE IS ACTUAL BLUE TAPE :O
Yeah.
So, our teachers are being forced to put blue tape over their boards. Looking at Mrs.Hautigan's board, I do think it helps make it appear a bit more organized. But, seriously? Other than that, there's nothing special about it. It's literally tape.
I mean, we have textbooks falling apart, and that's what our school board is concerned about? BLUE TAPE? What in the world.... Yeah, that makes sense. Nooo, we don't need new books! LET'S ALL BUY TAPE. BECAUSE IT HELPS IMPROVE OUR EDUCATION.
WOOOOO!
Sexy images:
Yeah, that makes my blog look longer. Mission accomplished.
BLUE TAPE IS ACTUAL BLUE TAPE :O
Yeah.
So, our teachers are being forced to put blue tape over their boards. Looking at Mrs.Hautigan's board, I do think it helps make it appear a bit more organized. But, seriously? Other than that, there's nothing special about it. It's literally tape.
I mean, we have textbooks falling apart, and that's what our school board is concerned about? BLUE TAPE? What in the world.... Yeah, that makes sense. Nooo, we don't need new books! LET'S ALL BUY TAPE. BECAUSE IT HELPS IMPROVE OUR EDUCATION.
WOOOOO!
Sexy images:
Yeah, that makes my blog look longer. Mission accomplished.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Cybergoth
while my group (Tajin, Sydney, myself) presented our youth subculture powerpoint to the class, many of us wondered what the cybergoth picture in the presentation was all about. None of us see it at all. For that reason, I've decided to write about it.
Cybergoth isn't exactly an American subculture, but it's at least prevalent in the U.S. It includes elements of cyberpunk, goth, raver, and other fashions. Cybergoths are more partial towards techno music rather than rock.
The term itself was coined in the 1980s in the UK for an advertisement of a roleplaying game, and the style came a decade later.
Cybergoths wear mostly black with neon colors. They adorn platform boots, piercings, bright hair extensions, and goggles. Their clothes are made of reflective materials. The clothing is meant to be typical black-goth styled, with a splash of a contrasting color. The hair extensions can be dreadlocks, cyberlox, or normal (albeit bright) extensions. It can also be made from various materials. Many cybergoths wear masks.
As said earlier, cybergoths don't really listen to all that much rock. Rather, they enjoy a mix of techno, acid trance, darkstep, electropop, intelligent dance music (What is this...I don't even..), EBM, hardstyle, dubstep, and more.
The culture is mostly active on the internet, or during nighttime. There are clubs for cybergoths, specifically, such as the Slimelight, The Wendy House, Autonomy, Tech Noir, and Chains on Velvet (all of which are located in the UK).
However, like I said, it does exist in the US. In Detroit, there is Leland City Club, while there's The Castle in Tampa, Death Guild (sounds pleasant, right?) in San Francisco, and Das Bunker in Los Angeles. Cybergothism is also popular in Canada.
And now, for some pictures!
Lovely.
Cybergoth isn't exactly an American subculture, but it's at least prevalent in the U.S. It includes elements of cyberpunk, goth, raver, and other fashions. Cybergoths are more partial towards techno music rather than rock.
The term itself was coined in the 1980s in the UK for an advertisement of a roleplaying game, and the style came a decade later.
Cybergoths wear mostly black with neon colors. They adorn platform boots, piercings, bright hair extensions, and goggles. Their clothes are made of reflective materials. The clothing is meant to be typical black-goth styled, with a splash of a contrasting color. The hair extensions can be dreadlocks, cyberlox, or normal (albeit bright) extensions. It can also be made from various materials. Many cybergoths wear masks.
As said earlier, cybergoths don't really listen to all that much rock. Rather, they enjoy a mix of techno, acid trance, darkstep, electropop, intelligent dance music (What is this...I don't even..), EBM, hardstyle, dubstep, and more.
The culture is mostly active on the internet, or during nighttime. There are clubs for cybergoths, specifically, such as the Slimelight, The Wendy House, Autonomy, Tech Noir, and Chains on Velvet (all of which are located in the UK).
However, like I said, it does exist in the US. In Detroit, there is Leland City Club, while there's The Castle in Tampa, Death Guild (sounds pleasant, right?) in San Francisco, and Das Bunker in Los Angeles. Cybergothism is also popular in Canada.
And now, for some pictures!
Lovely.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Suicide. The word alone is suggestive of negative connotations. It just sounds bad. Of course, it is though.
So, what does suicide mean exactly? Dictionary.com defines it as the "intentional taking of one's own life." I'd say that accurately sums it up.
Naturally, this is just one of those topics mostly everyone has an opinion of, including myself. To take one's own life. According to most religions, suicide is a drastic sin. Severely frowned upon. I wouldn't recommend it.
For the most part, Christians and Catholics consider it a sin, based on the commandment "Thou shalt not kill" and the idea of life being a gift from God. To denounce that ultimate gift, one thereby denounces God. There are opposing views, however, such as that God has allowed man to have free will, and to take one's life doesn't go against His Law or interfere with His plan.
Judaism similarly believes in the importance of valuing life, and as so it is also considered a major taboo. In Islam, as well, suicide is not condoned, believed to be a sign of doubt in God. It is also discouraged in Hinduism, though believed to be a man's right to take his life if he chooses to do so.
Suicide is actually against the law in some countries. After all, it is the "murder" of oneself.
However, don't let that fool you. Many people actually advocate one's right to committing suicide. In many cultures, suicide is supported. In Japan, suicide is tolerated and sometimes even seen as justified. As well as in philosophy. Philosophy maintains that no one should suffer against their will.
Every year, about 30,000 Americans take their own lives. Over half of suicides are within men from ages 25-65, and over half of suicide is done with a gun of some sort. For people of ages 15-24, suicide is the third leading cause of death. 80% of the people that actually seek treatment are treated. There are 8-25 attempted suicides to 1 actually completed suicide. Suicide is also the 11th leading cause of death in the US. Men commit suicide much more often than women, due to them not wanting to seek professional help. On average, one person dies by suicide every 16.2 minutes.
It's a little freaky, that several people have probably just hung themselves while I was writing this.
I have a verryyy strong opinion on suicide. However, my mom says I shouldn't post it at the risk of offending some of you XP
Gawsh. People are so silly.
So, what does suicide mean exactly? Dictionary.com defines it as the "intentional taking of one's own life." I'd say that accurately sums it up.
Naturally, this is just one of those topics mostly everyone has an opinion of, including myself. To take one's own life. According to most religions, suicide is a drastic sin. Severely frowned upon. I wouldn't recommend it.
For the most part, Christians and Catholics consider it a sin, based on the commandment "Thou shalt not kill" and the idea of life being a gift from God. To denounce that ultimate gift, one thereby denounces God. There are opposing views, however, such as that God has allowed man to have free will, and to take one's life doesn't go against His Law or interfere with His plan.
Judaism similarly believes in the importance of valuing life, and as so it is also considered a major taboo. In Islam, as well, suicide is not condoned, believed to be a sign of doubt in God. It is also discouraged in Hinduism, though believed to be a man's right to take his life if he chooses to do so.
Suicide is actually against the law in some countries. After all, it is the "murder" of oneself.
However, don't let that fool you. Many people actually advocate one's right to committing suicide. In many cultures, suicide is supported. In Japan, suicide is tolerated and sometimes even seen as justified. As well as in philosophy. Philosophy maintains that no one should suffer against their will.
Every year, about 30,000 Americans take their own lives. Over half of suicides are within men from ages 25-65, and over half of suicide is done with a gun of some sort. For people of ages 15-24, suicide is the third leading cause of death. 80% of the people that actually seek treatment are treated. There are 8-25 attempted suicides to 1 actually completed suicide. Suicide is also the 11th leading cause of death in the US. Men commit suicide much more often than women, due to them not wanting to seek professional help. On average, one person dies by suicide every 16.2 minutes.
It's a little freaky, that several people have probably just hung themselves while I was writing this.
I have a verryyy strong opinion on suicide. However, my mom says I shouldn't post it at the risk of offending some of you XP
Gawsh. People are so silly.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Teen Pregnancy
Alright so we all know that teen pregnancy is a major social problem, and that it is a social trend increasing year by year. Why? Because people are stupid. However, there are different things that take part in teen pregnancies. For instance, a girl may be raped, in which case, she may be forced to take care of a child. In other cases, consensual sex and unprotected sex can lead to unexpected births.
One other cause of teen birth is actually negligent. Statistics show that children who are unsupervised by their parents, or have parents that do not discipline them, tend to become wild and destructive. These teens are a lot more likely to become pregnant, or even father an illegitimate child. The moral of the story: parents should be more active in their child's lives. Also, 20% of white children who's parents weren't married for them to be conceived, end up as bums, basically (well, either pregnant or drug-addicted or in a gang). The rate is much higher for blacks, at a whopping 70%.
If you look at the statistics, within the 21st century, teen pregnancy has increased a lot. It is no longer viewed as a major taboo, though yes, it is still seen in a negative light. Tied with teen pregnancies, abortion rates have increased, causing the nation controversy, since abortion rates are a huge wedge issue. Some teenagers who can afford the abortion tend to do so, while others who can’t are forced to take care of their child. That is, the actual rate of teen pregnancy is a lot higher than what we think it is. Now that’s something we should ponder about.
On a side note, today, in our culture, teen pregnancies have become a source of entertainment, actually. MTV now broadcasts shows in which pregnant teenage girls are being followed. This form of media in fact encourages younger girls to actually become pregnant. It’s a hyped up way to become popular or famous, so some teens takes their chances through that.
Let's take a look at some more facts. Nearly one million teens get pregnant each year. That is, 4 out of 10 women before they turn 20, even. 40 billion is spent each year by the government to help these individuals. The U.S. has a higher teen pregnancy rate than other countries. The rate nearly doubles Canada's, 4 times France and Germany's, and 8 times Japan's. In the year 2000, 79% of teen births were from unmarried teens. Less than 1/3 of teen mothers actually finish high school, and many have more children (1/4 if them have a second child within 2 years). 1/3 of all teen mothers go on welfare within the first year of birth. The children are likely to be born prematurely and unhealthily, possibly with blindness, deafness, mental retardation, cerebral palsy, etc. They are 50% more likely to repeat a grade, and less likely to complete high school. The daughters are 22% more likely to become teen mothers as well, and the sons are 13% more likely to end up in prison.
Why would we glorify such a stupid action? It's completely beyond me. Teens who get pregnant should be scolded, not praised. Not to say that I believe they should be shunned from society or anything. For their kid to end up healthy, they'd need a strong support system as well. Anyway, kids, just don't do it. Or use protection, and don't tell anyone you did.
Introduction
My name is Maliya Ortiz. I'm sixteen years old, and currently enrolled in the Step Up program at my school. For one of my classes, I'll be posting weekly blogs. My first one will regard teen pregnancy.
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