Well, I really enjoyed what the text had to say about critical thinking including the subjects of race and religion. People tend to live inside of a matrix that keeps there views stuck in a certain form all their lives. Being an American Citizen is nothing more than being a French citizen or African citizen, because we all have two legs, two arms, and brains that think on a higher capacity than most other animals. If people believe they are free, this includes a democracy, they will never escape their prison. Also, if people believe they are imprisoned, for example a monarchy, they will eventually over throw their ruler or be killed in the effort. To be an American is to think one is free.
This book I don't think will challenge my beliefs too much because unlike any other textbook I have read it seems to present an unbiased opinion on matters that affect our every day lives. People don't want to talk about the critical issues, or even worse, do anything about them. In the introduction of the book, ''Rereading America'' it talks of how we as a culture are ''numbed by a constant barrage of images on TV, in magazines and newspapers, in video games, and films.'' This is not to mention our churches, schools, or peers. The book really seems to have an edge on reading and visual images and how at these at the least are the beginnings of discussion.
In conclusion, Rereading America seems to tackle the real issues facing people across the world. The word America symbolizes more than just the United States. It is a description of the love people everywhere posses and the challenges that love is faced with.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I liked the your ending about being more than just the US and that is more like an ideal than an actual place.
ReplyDeleteI really like your idea of believing to be free or imprisoned. It's also an interesting point that you brought up about being an American citizen not meaning anything more than being a citizen of any other country. I'm of the same opinion, but have never thought of it that way before. It's interesting what we associate with being a member or citizen of anything. After all the world belongs to all of us, doesn't it? :)
ReplyDeleteYour post really opened a new way of viewing freedom and America that I did not interpret from the reading. It was very interesting and I enjoyed seeing "Freedom" and a monarchy in those points of view.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this post. You seem to have a level head, and I enjoy that. You're writing was very enjoyable, and you have a great way of expressing yourself. I like when you stated that the we all have two hands, two feet, and that we are all equal. People seem to think that Americans are better, but we are just like every one else. I like that you have an open mind and recognized that element of our society.
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with your idea that as a people we sometimes find ourselves living in our own self made matrix. To me that is a true statement. On the same hand i find myself in the same shoes, and to be honest i like the "matrix" that i have "created". I believe in life we have an opportunity to live or step out of that self made world just about everyday if we look for it. Personally that is when i learn the most about myself.
ReplyDelete