MattJKblog

"Why Literature Matters"

2007-11-11T21:40:00.000-08:00

Dana Gioia discusses the importance and decline of literature in his essay Why Literature Matters. The article begins with reference to the historical patriot John Adams prophesizing “that our sons may have the liberty to study mathematics and philosophy.” The author then moves on to state, “By the mid 20th century, America boasted internationally preeminent traditions in literature, art, music, dance, theater, and cinema.” These introductory techniques allow the audience to believe that there was a better understanding of the importance of the arts in previous centuries than there is today.
The author then further develops her claim of inadequate comprehension of the arts by giving citing the 2002 Survey of Public Participation in the Arts. It states, “the participation of Americans in the arts has declined in eight of the nine major forms that are measured (Only jazz has shown a tiny increase).” The detailed and supported nature of the essay aids in the development of the idea that the U.S. has lost its appreciation of art.
Dana Gioia then divulges upon the “consequences that go beyond literature.” She creates the idea that literature is a key component in the business world by citing the February issue of Wired. Then she also discusses the irony of literature; where its significance is only fully understood when it is in a decline. The author then reaffirms the idea of literary depletion by giving an example of the College Board spending 3.1 billion a year on remedial writing instruction.
Dana’s strongpoint in her argument is her multiple citations and examples. She shows more concern with the decline of literary awareness among younger individuals stating that literary deficiency also correlates to the decline of historical and political awareness. She then states that “we sometimes underestimate how large a role literature has played in the evolution of our nation identity.” Literary knowledge and appreciation has led to the development of many ideals today. She cites specific examples such as “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” which brought the gross nature of slavery to masses.
The author then reflects upon the personal impact of literature and with how the decline of literary awareness is most likely caused by the increase in electronic appliances. Dana ends with how literary deficiency will keep the nation less informed, active, and independent-minded. Literary awareness is not something we can afford to lose.

Plagiarism

2007-11-04T22:44:00.001-08:00

Plagiarism is the exact statement made by another individual that has been copied and dubbed as an original by another person. The links in Noah’s argument serve to demonstrate that the research behind the aspects of plagiarism have been thoroughly dissected and reviewed. This also helps apply that everyone has a different understanding of what plagiarism actually is. The affect my understanding of the issues at hand by providing specific sources at hand to further develop my own opinion on plagiarism. The one I found to be most helpful was the previously noted (where it gives an opinion that she did plagiarize) and the least helpful to me was the link to Newshour with Jim Lehrer. I would definitely consider using links within when creating a web page in order to vary my sources.
Noah argues his claim very persuasively. His most persuasive arguments are, well, all of them. He includes several resources for each of his examples and each are equally represented. Overall his claims are believable because he has an abundance of sources. If he wasn’t so diverse with his sources I would be more skeptical of his claim but he leaves little room to argue.

Testing Speech Codes

2007-11-04T22:25:00.001-08:00

Dershowitz argument is well written and follows the Toulmin analysis perfectly. He exerts a claim, follow it up with personal examples, and provides several other examples. His claim is that the proper response to controversial and offense speech is not to block it completely but deny it with proper etiquette. The claim itself was not expressed outright and thus allowed the reader to ponder the situation and draw their own conclusions before he divulged his opinion. I also found it enjoyable that he used a real-life example to further develop his claim. He also includes a rebuttal and a follow-up to the rebuttal that was very relevant. Upon reading this I cannot find much difference in my views of this week’s subject.

2007-11-04T18:33:00.000-08:00

The first image of the priest dominating over the American flag and eagle demonstrates the opposing side of Christianity in the Constitution where it dominates over society rather than being subtly integrated. The second image with Jesus Christ in front of the American Flag helps reinstate the ideal that the country was found upon Christian ideals. The last image is a humorous cartoon in which one of the founding fathers is ridiculed for being unchristian. This also demonstrates that the Constitution may not have been founded solely upon Christianity.

Toumin Analysis of GE Advertisment

2007-11-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

The claims propagated by the GE advertisement are that their new locomotive is the cleanest ever made and that it is a benefit to the environment (even though it doesn’t really aid the ecosystem and is still creating pollution). The reason the advertisement gives for being beneficial to the environment is displaying birds next to the vehicle and are seemingly unaffected by it. The warrants the ad instills in the viewer are birds that are existing harmoniously beside the train (which is supposedly representing the environment in general). The evidence for the advertisement is emotional appeal and financial appeal. The qualifier is that the train is not completely pollutant free but this is not explicitly stated (why would any ad not want that on its advertisements?). The Toulmin analysis does not leave anything out of the argument made by the GE advertisement.

Toulmin Analysis of my Essay

2007-11-04T17:16:00.000-08:00

Upon doing a Toulmin analysis of my essay the structures is as follows: my reason is to evaluate my two types of patriotism and support for our troops, my warrants are several comparisons, my evidence are examples of those who are truly patriotic and the falsely patriotic, my qualifiers are stating the two terms can coincide, my conditions of rebuttal are allowing some tangible representation to be acceptable with true patriotism, and my response is these representations should be use sparingly and are never enough by themselves to evoke true patriotism.

After reviewing my essay I realized that I could have done better. My evidence is lacking because does not involve any factual scenarios only conjured situations. The conditions of rebuttal were not entirely responded to and some of my scenarios were sketchy. If I had prior knowledge of the Toulmin analysis I believe essay could have had more cohesiveness and better structure in my essay.

In a revision my weakest argument (which is that soldier’s are there by choice) would have been completely removed and replaced with another subject. I might touch-base this ideal but with little enthusiasm. Some additional evidence I can offer for my warrants are actual examples of falsified patriotism rather than just abstract scenarios. This would help further develop my definitions of patriotism and supporting our troops.

Articles 2

2007-10-28T23:44:00.000-07:00

Title: Purgatory without End Author: Unknown Date: 5/28/2005 Vol.375 Issue 8428 p38 1p 1c Link: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=17183480&loginpage=login.asp&site=ehost-live&scope=site

I decided to look at a few articles that contained material pertaining to religious confrontation in the United States. This article in particular offered more recent conflicts and took an in-depth look at more Republican issues with religion. Many issues covered have been over indulged (stem cells, filibusters, etc.) but then an interesting point came about that he discussed. America is highly religious and secular at the same time. For people to coerce with relative harmony with a wide range of religious beliefs is incredible.

Title: The Christian History of the U.S. Constitution Author: Evans, Stanton Date: 4/19/96 Vol. 52 Issue 15 p12 2p Link: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=9604242752&loginpage=login.asp&site=ehost-live&scope=site

This article further develops the involvement of Christianity into the development of the American Constitution. He contends that the U.S. was built upon ideals and that over the years we have slowly severed our Christian ties. He site specific examples such as Congress permitting the publications of Bibles.

Title: The American Way Author: Unknown Date: 4/16/84 Vol. 36 Issue 6 p18-19 2p Link: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=8907015&loginpage=login.asp&site=ehost-live&scope=site

The article pays particular attention to the U.S. liberals preventing school prayer but they also review the history of Christianity in the United States. This article provides incite into the opposition of a Christian basis to the Constitution.

Bok's Essay

2007-10-28T23:11:00.001-07:00

I would agree with Bok’s point view one hundred percent. Granted people will say things that offend or demean others but these are just forms of expression. Who are we to say that one person’s belief is less important compared to another’s. Also, if we censor one form of expression then we’ll have to do so multiple times until there is nothing to be expressed. “Hate speech” is a form of expression that should not be censored as long as it does the physical harm of another person.

An appropriate response to the subject of free speech would be to inquire what if someone becomes depressed and suicidal from so-called “hate-speech.” We can say and speak almost anything in this country but it is not an entirely “free” country. You can’t yell “fire” in a crowded theater. But for the most part we live in a country that does not inhibit the expression of a particular belief, religious preferences, and many other ideals.

Images

2007-10-28T21:30:00.001-07:00

These images (found on www.mindsay.com/tags/conservative, ) will aid in the further development of my argument by just illustrating that Christianity was at least somewhat a factor in the creation of the Constitution. The American flag with the holy cross on it signifies the foundation of the country upon Christian values. The map with the country broken up into two parts indicates, sarcastically, the over-indulgence of Christianity in America (at least according to the artist), and the picture with the soldier, the eagle, and the praise sign develops the idea of fighting for Christian ideals. All of these pictures allow different perspectives for the relationship between Christianity and the Constitution and its influence today.

Steroids

2007-10-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

The claim made by Matson in the picture is drawn from the reader through witty humor. The emotion the cartoon creates is that of mostly grief that some of the world’s finest athletes have to use steroids to be able to compete well in their sports. The emotion works to persuade my person in two aspects: first, it causes grief that these athletes have no integrity or talent anymore (it is all illegally derived) and second, it begets anger for the same reasons. It also illustrates how the lobby reform does influence the athletes effectively.

Academic Search Premier

2007-10-21T23:48:00.001-07:00

Title: Custom of a Country Author: Evans, M. Stanton Date: Mar. 2007 Vol. 40 Issue 2 p.20-24 Source: American Spectator Link: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=24197549&loginpage=login.asp&site=ehost-live&scope=site

This article by Evan discusses the Christian foundations America was built upon and the belittlement of the Christian beliefs in today’s society. He contends that the nation was organized and structured with Christian ideals in mind (and is the oldest constitution to still be active) but in the later 1900’s it began to change into something different. People began to complain that Christian beliefs were being forced upon them and the courts implemented hostile legal action against it. Evans also states that the Founders did not force their religion upon others. In fact, they endorsed diversity in religious beliefs. But today there is an almost opposite effect. Items such as the Ten Commandments and school prayer are banned for being to intrusive while it is perfectly acceptable to perform ritualistic sacrifices if a “religion” calls for it.

Title: The Faith of Our Fathers Author: Tolson, Jay Date: 6/28/2004 Source: U.S. News and World Report Vol. 136 Issue 23 p.54-57 Link: http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=aph&AN=13490597&loginpage=login.asp&site=ehost-live&scope=site

Many of the articles listed in Academic Search Premier follow the same trend when it comes to religion and the Constitution. They state that this country was founded upon Christian values and has slowly decayed to an inverse effect (i.e. Christianity is shunned). Faith of our Fathers illustrates this point precisely by divulging upon how America was formed on strong Christian ideals and has subsequently lost most of its moral integrity. It also contends that there were two sets of religious values that this country was built upon. This article could definitely help provide a strong basis for the belief that the U.S. Constitution was founded upon strong Christian values.

The Constitution: With or Without Christianity

2007-10-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Does the U.S. Constitution favor or oppose Christian beliefs? This question has been argued and debated upon since the conception of the Constitution. With this inquiry several follow-up questions have been utilized by those on each sides of the argument.

If one believes that the U.S. Constitution does favor Christian beliefs then here are some follow-up questions. What does the first amendment state? If it the first amendment states that there shall be no bias of religion, background, race, etc. then wouldn’t it contradict itself if it favored Christian ideals? If you believe this to be true then do you believe that the founding fathers (some of the most brilliant minds ever to walk the Earth) would be so hypocritical or unaware of what they conceived?

If one believes that the U.S. Constitution does not favor Christian ideals then these are some follow-up questions. Doesn’t the Constitution claim to be under God and in the year of our Lord? Don’t U.S. monetary notes have the statement under God? Doesn’t it seem odd that a country so bent on not propagating one religion over another would print these ideals on their money? Both of these sides have extensive support and it will an adventure to cover such an controversial subject.

College Spending

2007-10-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

The USA Today snapshot of Back-to-College spending (News, 7/20, 10/19/07) can be viewed in several different ways. One could say that this chart demonstrates that colleges are becoming increasingly difficult to attend because of their cost. Others might contend that this graph illustrates how much technology will become an important part of the learning experience. The graph does not take a solid basis for one idea so it may be interpreted differently (I will interpret these claims as if the graph displayed hard evidence to support them).

The graph clearly demonstrates that the economic and financial stature is much higher than several years ago. Most students will tell you that college is expensive but it has become increasingly difficult for those of poorer economic background to attend. If one cannot attend college because they are financially unfit then they cannot receive the proper education to progress in today’s developing society. This only furthers the distance between the upper and lower classes.

The graph accurately illustrates the increasing use of technology in a learning environment. The gap between electronics and texts is only 3 billion dollars per year. This proves that human advancements are moving at an exponential rate. Soon we may, in the future, forego the use of most texts.

The graph demonstrates that even tough electronics are becoming increasingly prevalent in the learning environment they will never overcome basic textbooks. Most electronics are nowadays are very expensive (which would explain the three billion dollar gap between textbooks and electronics) and are often cumbersome to college students. Textbooks are light, cheap, and easily produced so that the student may use them with ease. Most electronics come with instruction manuals and take a long time to use properly, but to use a book all one needs to do is read.

Arguments of Fact

2007-10-14T23:31:00.000-07:00

All of the claims listed on page 200 of the book Everything’s an Argument are not worthy of being argued in front of a college audience. The statement that hurricanes are increasing in number and ferocity is opinionated (just like the rest of the claims). One person might say that hurricanes have become more ferocious in past few years but others might disagree and claim that these are all by chance. It is surprising to note that New Orleans was not the most devastating hurricane on record. It was actually a hurricane that occurred in the year 1900.

The claim that many people die each year of cancer is opinionated. The term “many” is loose and varies from person to person. According to Cancer Facts and Figures 2006 almost 1.4 million people died in the United States from cancer that year but that is only about .5% of the entire population. These figures can be seen as big or small depending on one’s viewpoint. To say fewer people would die of heart disease each year if more of them paid attention to their diets is like stating that dieting is the only factor affecting heart disease. Many factors effect heart disease (diet, smoking, genetics, etc.) and who knows if dieting alone would decrease that number of cases.

The idea that Japan might have come to terms more readily in 1945 if the Allies hadn’t demanded unconditional surrender does not reflect the attitudes of the time. To say boys would do better in classrooms if men were teaching is based on one’s viewpoint. One male child may have an easier learning experience with a female teacher rather than a same sex teacher. The idea that the ever-increasing numbers of minorities in higher education is evidence that racial problems have just about ended in the United States is probably false. The racial tension most likely exists still but is more dormant because people are fearful of being reprimanded and sued.

To say there aren’t enough high-paying jobs for college graduates these days is stating that a higher education does not grant a bigger salary. Of course some jobs will be in short supply but there are still plenty of jobs around if one has the right degree. Technology has been increasing exponentially in the past few years. So to say hydrogen may never be a variable alternative to fossil fuels because it takes too much energy to produce discredits the capabilities of human race. Maybe one we can create a very cheap, environment-friendly, and effective source of energy so that we may use hydrogen.

The statement that only one of the first forty-three presidents of the United States was a Catholic is not entirely true. Some could be considered Catholic because they shared the same beliefs or ideals. It all depends on a person’s viewpoint just like saying political activists have grossly exaggerated the effects of the USA Patriot Act on free expression. All these claims are arguments of fact and have loose translations.

Is Christianity Dominating or Under Attack?

2007-10-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

The article “A Nation of Christians is not a Christian Nation” provides an interesting look into the development of a nation founded upon Christianity but accepts all religions. This article interests me because I have always wondered why there is so much religious tension in today’s society (most of which seems to condemn Christian beliefs). The article itself relates to my person by the fact that I am a Christian and I have witnessed many events in my life of religious separation.

The topic of separation of church and state has existed since shortly after the ratification of the Constitution. Many trials and tragedies have occurred over the past few centuries that have suppressed the so-called “Christian” dominance in America and so it makes for an excellent research topic. The topic itself is so important it affects everyone in the United States. I remember once having a Christian class in elementary for three years and for my final year we were not allowed to attend. They said it infringed on one’s right to believe in whatever religion they pleased. I hope to further develop an idea of Christianity in the United States that others may relate and become actively involved in, whether it is for or against Christian beliefs.

Surveillance Cameras

2007-10-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

Surveillance enhances how people outside of the situation view a particular incident but it does not give the point of view of the persons from the scene. In many ways in enhances our society but it also undermines it. The most common and often the most conflicting is the video surveillance camera.

Surveillance cameras are a great asset to any establishment. They allow others to witness crimes and the perpetrators. This advancement makes it much harder for someone to deny involvement in a crime when a camera captures them performing it. But, like most technology, there is also a downside. The camera can only capture what happens visually and audibly. It cannot capture a person’s viewpoint of the situation.

The video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaHyuWgir8U is an excellent example of a surveillance camera’s benefits and downsides. The woman was ultimately right (which can be seen from the video) and the cop was mistaken but he was not aware that he was wrong. The women acted hastily and the cop followed procedure, giving her many opportunities to cooperate but she refused each time. Each side was equally involved in the events that ensued and the court verdicts reflected this. Surveillance cameras are a valuable addition in society but their benefits can only go so far.

Indecision

2007-09-30T22:54:00.000-07:00

Before the class started my views upon the Iraqi War were established. Like most Americans, I believed that we entered into war to protect the interests of the American public and to keep our country safe. But after reading the events that have unfolded from the war I’m not quite sure staying in there is a worthwhile endeavor.

I had read many stories about the trials and tragedies of war but only one post gave an experience that stuck in my head. The experience that created my indecision was watching the video entitled “Like a Rock.” Words and stories can be easily forgotten but images last for a long time. Just watching so many men and women dedicated to serving our country made my heart sink. Knowing that some of these fine soldiers are putting and possibly losing their lives makes me question my beliefs. I began to wonder if the ordeal was worth all the pain of the soldiers and their families.

As of this moment I am indecisive on my position on the war in Iraq. On the outward appearance our involvement seems to have global affect with foiled terrorist plots and the capture/execution of Saddam Hussein. But also more conflicts have arose in the Middle East and many soldiers have lost their lives in the process. The death toll is closing in on four thousand and hopefully we are able to resolve the conflict that ensues in Iraq quickly so that our troops may return home.

All a Matter of Opinion

2007-09-30T20:11:00.001-07:00

All of these claims are very controversial and have many loop holes in their structure. To consider graphic novels as serious literature can be viewed as absurd. Most graphic novels are deemed as comics and the naming comics as serious reading material is questionable in itself. Furthermore this definition evokes the idea that labeling items of a fictitious nature as “serious” is appropriate. So fairy tales would also be serious literature under this assumption.

To say burning the nation’s flag is a hate crime is ignorant. It is completely based upon one’s opinion. Someone could also contend that burning the nation’s flag is the ultimate expression of freedom of speech. Where else would it be legal to burn the symbol of a country? It demonstrates how few restrictions we have in America and could be regarded as a great asset by some. As a follow up, to state the Bushes have become America’s royal family is opinionated. It has no factual basis except for what some people believe is true.

The statement “Matt Drudge and Larry Flynt are legitimate journalists.” would have to be followed by another question: is pornography a form of art or just derogatory? The idea that plagiarism can be an act of civil disobedience is loosely based concept. Some may say that plagiarism is a form of flattery. Once again, these are based upon one’s personal opinion and are not set in stone as the statements would have you believe.

The concept that college sports have become big business is mostly true. It is true they have received more attention over the past few years but their popularity still pales in comparison to the major leagues. Some say Satanism as a religion that is protected by the Constitution. While I agree with the statement that we should not judge someone because of their religious preferences I would also argue that the Constitution was written on very broad terms and is subject to different interpretations.

To say campaign contributions are acts of free speech one should also ask are they indeed free or is something needed in return? “The District of Columbia should have the privileges of an American state.” is an opinion just like the statement, “committed gay and lesbian couples should have the legal privileges of marriage.” All of these are subject to one’s personal opinion.
Overall, these supposed “concrete” statements all differ in legitimacy from the person whom you ask. Some may agree with the burning of the flag, some may not but at least one can assert their opinion as they see fit, and that makes these statements loose.

The Geek in the Pink

2007-09-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

Peril’s concept of “pink think” has some standing in today’s society, but for the most part it has been regarded as an outdated and sexist ideal. Nowadays it is not uncommon for women to behave in any fashion they see fit. Whether it is how they dress or converse, women do not shun themselves to set principles. It is even regarded as an accomplishment is one breaks free the shackles of the concept of “pink think.”

Today it is considered rude to subjugate women to the ideals of “pink think.” Although, in the first half of the 20th century it was nearly unheard of for a woman raise a family by herself or to even have a job. Women were expected to act “lady-like” around others and to participate in their duties of motherhood. The events that broke these concepts and brought new rise to women’s rights were the 19th Amendment and the riveters of World War 2. These events helped display that women can perform just as well as men and should have the same opportunities as they do.

Another stereotypical behavior that I have been affiliated with is geek think. “Geek think” is an ideal that has affected many adolescents and even adults for their entire lives. People who are incorporated in this ideology are those who are intelligent but don’t have a necessarily handsome appearance. This concept is derived upon popularity. Many students will tell you that there are three classes of people at their school; the jocks, the geeks, and everyone in between. Although today many people of this category are beginning to receive much recognition worldwide. Many famous geeks such as Albert Einstein are becoming a part of everyday pop culture. But I wonder if the recognition they receive is for what the did or their awkward appearance.

I Hate Britney Too

2007-09-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

Based on the criteria of the essay I would give Nisey Williams essay Why I Hate Britney an A. She begins her assertion about hating Britney with a situation through which she draws an emotional relationship with the reader. This displays an exceptional writing characteristic; she can evoke emotions. Nisey continues to divulge her distaste for Britney Spears citing multiple examples from both popular and almost unheard of resources. Her extensive external examples add to the illustration of Britney’s inappropriate sex appeal.

I don’t know about others but when I watch television and hear the reports of soldiers killed in Iraq in a thirty second time slot followed immediately by a ten minute slot about Britney’s alcoholism I get nauseated. Nisey reminisces upon the many aspects of Britney that cause her disgust and hate with excellent representation. She even covers the other end of the spectrum by stating “in all fairness, Britney’s not the only one.” which is another benchmark of a great writer. Her essay is well-written, cited, and definitely worthy of an A.

TV Sitcoms vs. Navajo Rugs

2007-09-23T13:08:00.001-07:00

If I had the choice of evaluating a subject I would definitely choose TV sitcoms. Several criteria needed to evaluate this subject would include the shows influence on pop culture, its ratings, reviews, and duration. Obviously the more influential the show is the more popular it becomes. The ratings and reviews give incite to how well the scripts are developed, how cohesive the plot is, and how pertinent the series is towards modern affairs. A sitcom does not have to have many seasons to be influential but history demonstrates that the best and most influential TV sitcoms (such as Friends or The Simpsons) do stay on air for many years.

A subject that I would need to research to evaluate would be Navajo rugs. Some key points that I would look for would be their origin, their influence on Navajo culture, how they are made (can they be made easily or do they take many years of practice), what are they made of, and what designs are weaved onto them and why. Areas I would research to find suitable criteria would be Navajo sites, museums, and actual Navajo Indians. To obtain the best evaluation I would have to take a personal interest in the subject but, unfortunately, I do not find the material very interesting.

Milblogs Session 3

2007-09-16T18:40:00.000-07:00

After reviewing my blog posts I realized I had not published one, (uh oh!) so here it is. One of the blogs that I read was called Beauty in the Dirt. This is an excellent blog where the writer, Teflon Don, details that one can find solace in the most unlikely of places. He reminisces upon seeing the beauty of the desert in Iraq; the clear sky, bright lights, and abundant wildlife. The blog demonstrates that even though war and hardship ensue, many can find comfort in their surroundings. It seems to be a predominant observation among the men and women of the armed services to look at the world through a different perspective while most only look at the hardships.
Best of luck to all those fighting and God bless.

Crop Circles: Alien Communication or Farmers with Too Much Free Time

2007-09-16T18:29:00.000-07:00

For my assignment I have chosen to write about the intriguing aspects of crop circles discussed on the website http://www.circlemakers.org/. I chose this website because it takes interesting approach towards an old myth. The website gives a glimpse at how older legends are being revised into a newer era.

The website utilizes a unique design that is consistent throughout the site. The designs are blueprint oriented with repetitive circular shapes arranged in several patterns to give the illusion of a detailed investigation of the phenomena. The text complements the designs by reflecting the same color, print, and structure. The size and position of the text blocks are disproportional to the artwork (i.e. the designs cover more of the site than the text). The color is simplistic borrowing a blueprint layout throughout the site except for the external pictures of supposed “circles” and related material. Each page is entirely the same except for a minuscule text box that changes per subject. The design itself is adequate at first but it rapidly loses appeal due to its repetitious nature.

Crop circles had never really interested me until I realized how wide-spread these strange events were. Some use them promotionally, some for entertainment, and others still believe that they are actual forms of alien communication. I hope to gain a better understanding of the phenomena through my research of this interesting subject.

Editorial Cartooning 2006

2007-09-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

The editorial cartooning winner of 2006, Mike Luckovich, creates a statement through his cartoon (which ironically, is not funny). His argument contends that the 2,000 soldiers who had lost their lives had died for no proper cause. His cartoon appeals emotionally towards the audience to gain sympathetic favor. The cartoon derives the main ideals of the Democratic Party which deal heavily upon the hardships and misgivings of war. The conclusion that Luckovich creates is that the soldiers should be extracted from Iraq to prevent further bloodshed and loss.

Aloha "Wikis!"

2007-09-09T20:15:00.000-07:00

The “wikis” are a fun interactive experience that helps to develop relationships with modernistic styles of communication and my peers. Even though mine is still very much in development I know it will be an accurate reflection of my person. I came across of few issues but overall the set-up was smooth. I hope to somehow be able to post videos upon my “wiki” as well but it has inhibited this action for some reason. Oh well, I’ll eventually figure it out.

http://dontbeadoormatt.pbwiki.com/

The DailyKos

2007-09-09T20:09:00.001-07:00

After reading the blog posts on www.DailyKos.com I came across several interesting critiques that were used by kos to maintain appeal. He is able to locate fallacies and flashpoints in rhetoric of politicians and provide evidence to support it in peculiar ways. He clearly illustrates depth of knowledge and understanding of the political environment but often his agenda is concealed by “Bush” slander.

Kos critiques the material he links to by a directly addressing every significant section of the quote. Sometimes the quotes themselves are much lengthier than the blog post. This aids the notion that his argument must be factual given the vast nature of research. His critiques are poignant and easily understood (almost as though you were having a one-way conversation). He even addresses “hatemail” in a calm response filled with sagacious insight. He draws the reader to a personal level so that he can derive much more attention and approval to his ideas.

Kos adequately addresses the fallacies of the material he reviews. He will chime in from time to time with witty remarks elaborating upon the fallacy behind many bills and policies. In one instance involving the Abercrombie Bill he displays the question “does it even pass the logic test?” to support that this is indeed a non sequitor.

Bush seems to be the focal point of much criticism on both ends of the political spectrum. From jokes that depict his, what seem to be often, mannerisms to his questionable legislature and stance there seems to be no end to the criticism. The President may have somewhat of a deficient vocabulary but this, in itself, is a fallacy. These ad hominem remarks that kos and other political bloggers repeatedly make towards President Bush are loosely tied. Do public speeches and political insight have any common ground? Not much, if you ask me.

Political bloggers, like kos, seem to thrive upon the fallacies and flashpoints of others and use them as a means of gaining attention. They create a whirlwind of political attacks upon ideals and principles of others. But when these prove to be unsuccessful in grabbing audiences they can always count on exploiting a blunder to regain attention. Kos has many substantiated, well-developed political views but the “Bush” and republican jokes overshadow his political prowess.

Overall kos accurately interprets many fallacies found in today’s political system. He has instilled many intriguing democratic views in his work and is well-developed. I wish he would keep the “Bush” slander to minimum; it lessens the effectiveness of his views.

Milblogs Session 2

2007-09-09T20:06:00.000-07:00

By visiting the milblogs again I derived a more personal relationship with the website. The article So It Goes Forward details the events of the last day before two soldiers headed back to Iraq. One of the soldiers seemed depressed about returning so the other gave him a clover for luck and a safe return after his duty was fulfilled. At the end he replies “Paying it forward is always better than simply paying it back.” The simple act of passing a clover can raise one’s spirit to give them a reason to move on.

The next article I read, Recreational Warfare, chronicles the events of a man disillusioned by, or what he sees as, the ignorance of others. The Iraqi War wages only a few miles away but the people of Kuwait do not even give heed to its existence and go about their days. It is astounding how we can pretend the issues don’t effect us until the come knocking at our doorstep.

Youtube: Broadcast Your Argument

2007-09-02T20:37:00.000-07:00

Like many people around the world, I am a youtube addict. When I’m bored I consult the videos that are posted onto this amazing website. The website is a great way of presenting visual material because of its simplicity, flashy appeal, and few restrictions. Before youtube the internet had a stagnant problem; how could someone post visual and audio material so that it can be viewed by many people? You could create your own website, but that would tiresome and unnecessary just to display one video (and who knows if it could gain much attention). Then youtube emerged with an easy and effective manner of demonstrating one’s creativity through visual recording.

The advantages of presenting videos on youtube, as opposed to oral/live demonstrations, are in its efficiency and capacity to be seen by a wide array of people. Rather than performing an oral display to a select group of people, a person can now post material to many hundreds, thousands, or even millions of people! Needless to say, this helps get one’s point across much more effectively.

Translating youtube’s website to an oral/live presentation or documented format would be either impractical or impossible given the vast nature of the site. That is why youtube is so incredible; it can’t be summed up into anything else. The diversity and grandeur of youtube has not been paralleled nor, in my opinion, will it ever be.

Translation into any other format would be a useless endeavor that could only serve to dilute youtube’s flashy appeal and its simplicity. Who could honestly say that they could translate every single piece of video on the youtube? Due to its extensive nature, it stands triumphant as one the most recognizable sources of media and has allowed millions to expose their creativity so that anyone my view it. So go ahead, broadcast yourself!

Playwrite Presentation

2007-09-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

While attending the week-long honors course at IPFW I was allowed to witness several professors giving speeches on the topics they specialized in. All of them were intriguing but one presentation caught my attention and has remained imbued in my mind. It was the presentation given by the professor of playwriting and design, Mr. Steve Sarratore. Although he gave little waiver to this notion, his argument was to persuade us to join in some of his classes or latter presentations. He presents in a manner that envelopes the audience into his presentation and keeps them fixated upon his every word.

Mr. Sarratore is a very visual performer, but he does not use any external props. He captures and holds the audience’s attention through specific hand and face gestures. When Mr. Sarratore mentions an astonishing moment his face opens up and he displays a wide-eyed facial movement that lures the listeners towards him as if they were having a one-way conversation. When a he wants to express an issue that is more important he becomes more dramatic with his movement, moving and flowing in sync with his words. All of these attributes contribute to drawing attention to the audience and furthering his points.

Mr. Sarratore grasped my attention most when he spoke of the importance of expression in playwriting. His stance became rigid and posed, his voice elevated slightly, and his hand gestures became frequent. He cited the example of the single word, “yes” in The Glass Menagerie. Mr. Sarratore signified the importance of word expression through an effective display himself.

Another interesting tool Mr. Sarratore used in his demonstration was involving the entire class into a project. We each created a character and then combined two of them in a story. The event helped to build a closer relationship with the instructor and become more in tune with what he was saying. This helped to develop his argument by gaining respect and interest from his audience.

Finally, Mr. Sarratore evoked the audience’s regard by relating himself to others. He gave humorous anecdotes, situations, and acts that made him seem like he could be your best friend. He created a figure that was less dominant, more cooperative, and thus furthered his ideals.

Mr. Sarratore utilized many techniques that can only be performed by veterans of theatre. His argument to invite others was obtained through visual appearance, body gestures, and relating to others. Proving that Mr. Sarratore’s presentation was effective, he intrigued me enough to start reading The Glass Menagerie. His speech has been imprinted within my mind as one of the best demonstrations I’ve ever witnessed.

Milblogs

2007-08-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

I found Officer Toby Dunn’s article You Think or You Know to be very interesting. He uses humor to relieve some of his worries in a bad situation. Earlier officer Dunn had encountered a dilemma in which one of his vehicles had gone missing but was later found in poor condition. During his investigation to find the source of the damage he stumbled across a man who said, “I think I might have hit a tree.” Officer Dunn replied by saying, “A tree is something you know you hit.” Later, while in the middle of a vicious mortar attack, a soldier spoke over the radio stating he “thinks” that a mortar struck next to him. Dunn wittily replied “You think or you know?”

This article helps illustrate how soldiers make the best of bad situations by incorporating humor to boost morale. Officer Dunn was able to make this remark all while under a heavy attack showing a great deal of character. I admire Officer Dunn’s ability to think rationally under pressure while others, myself included, would fail to do so.

Another article I read entitled A Close One by Eddie details a near death scenario. What I found most interesting about this article was his use of very common English and sometimes emotes to make fun of a bad scenario. It demonstrates that the men and women of the Army are just like civilians in many ways. They have flaws (the soldier accidentally forgot his rifle in this story) and are just as sociable as anyone else. Another intriguing aspect of this story is the brotherhood that forms between soldiers. They act to aid one another without even giving a second thought. This is a very admirable quality to have.

Overall reading these “milblogs” was an enjoyable experience. I learned how many soldiers in the military have different reactions towards unpleasant situations, how they overcome them, and how they used modern writing techniques (i.e. common dialogue, etc.) to explain their stories. This is an excellent example of modern writing and one that I would like to review at another time.

Internet Monitoring

2007-08-26T19:07:00.001-07:00

I took a particular interest in this topic because I know of someone who had an experience described in Bahrampour and Antari’s article. A high school student I knew posted a negative comment related to another student’s death on My Space. The student was immediately suspended for nine days. I could not believe the school could have the authority to suspend or expel students for posting comments on the internet.

I believe that the internet should be used with a user’s discretion; what you post can be viewed by anyone even the person you would least want to see it. Obviously this issue will be very serious considering that the internet is used extensively in today’s society. Some may contest that singling out students because of an internet document is infringing upon their right to freedom of speech. Students should be aware that there is no such thing as real “freedom of speech,” everything has peripherals and guidelines. I can not walk into a crowded theater and yell, “Fire!” and not expect my actions not to have repercussions. Although I should not be silenced because I believe in something.

I also believe that disciplinary action should exist if it may lead to the physical harm of another student, not emotional harm. Everyone gets their feelings hurt sometimes but one has to move on. If you’re offended by a web posting then simply ignore it. The internet would not exist if people could not post whatever they wanted upon it (or it would just contain spam and advertisements). I don’t understand how someone can talk negatively about a dead student and get suspended but he could have also joined an online extremist group with no penalty. Too much emotional attachment can lead to censorship, which can lead to the downfall of the internet.

Hypertexting

2007-08-26T17:24:00.000-07:00

James Sonoski raises several intriguing topics in his article entitles Hyper-readers and their Reading Engines. Sonoski contends that technology has been moving at such an accelerated pace that a normal person can not keep up with the new demands. He illustrates this point by discussing the relationship between hypertexting and reading in manuscript form. Normal human perception has been focused on reading through manuscript for thousands of years. Switching to reading from a digital screen fairly quickly is troublesome to those not used to it. I believe that this situation can be rectified by the upcoming generation. This generation has become accustomed to reading text on a computer screen instead in a book.

Another interesting observation I gleaned from Sonoski’s article was the idea that computer technology will eventually become an essential component of modern society. It will exercise considerable control over our lives even though we may be unwilling to convert to such demands. Sonoski makes this clear by stating, “We cannot on the conventions that governed the reading practices of the previous generations.” Our society is shifting dramatically to emphasize more computer-based programs. We, as individuals, must do the same. However, I do not believe that we will eventually have computer overlords controlling every aspect of our lives (a horror story derived directly from Asimov’s writings), but it is an interesting point.

Another compelling argument I got from the article is the principle that most communication has lost its meaningful component. Today’s texts ramble on about the benefits and promises but it only means to speak to gain something valuable from yourself, whether it be money or a vote for office. Soon texts will eventually become flashier and have less meaning to them than written text. Others and myself fear, eventually, there will come a time when all value is lost from hypertexts or any type of communication and viewers will only be interested in the visual appeal. Even now the pitfalls of modern communication become evident.