Today in class, we went over a prompt from Question #3 on the AP Language Exam. We did a prompt from Oscar Wilde and a prompt from Empire of Illusion from Chris Hedges. We also read an example of a good response in class. So, for your blog, you are to complete the essay. Period 2 is to respond to the Oscar Wilde prompt and period 3 is to respond to the Chris Hedges prompt. I have included a link to each prompt for those of you who were absent and for those who might have misplaced the prompt.
Chris Hedges scroll down to question 3
Oscar Wilde scroll down to question 3
When commenting, score the essay of TWO CLASSMATES with commentary!You may say what was done well, but you MUST give suggestions about what could have been done better as well. Comment on the essay OPPOSITE of the one you wrote. Every essay should have at least one score. Remember to score from 0-9.
America is a nation built on deceit and its occupants are simply the product of blatant foolery. Politicians and distributors thrive on their ability to sell a story, constantly lying to the American people to win their favor. However hard it may be to admit, Chris Hedges’ argument is valid in regards to the fact that artifice is the most essential skill in political theater and consumer culture.
ReplyDeleteWhen looking it from a political standpoint, popular politicians, including some of the most famous such as Donald Trump, have gained a sea of supporters through his powerful words and actions, no matter how true they may be. People would rather hear empty promises than facing truth because, as a matter of fact, transparency does not win elections. In recent news, President Trump allegedly vowed to pass a bill to make it significantly more difficult for people to gain assault rifles. However, after making the headlines and receiving his desired attention, Trump ditched his plans after realizing how many minds he actually had to change and the work that went into making a difference.
Much like politics, consumer culture relies heavily on artifice, empty promises and the misguided trust of the people. Distributors are able to manipulate their advertisements to make it seem as if they are necessary for enjoyment and that they are extremely beneficial. For example, a beer company such as Busch Light runs television commercials and billboards to make it seem like drinking their beer is the only way to have fun, and people will regret it if they do not have it. Beer companies such as these never discuss the ill effects of excess drinking such as drinking-and-driving and underage drinking issues. Companies use deceitful advertisements to create a false face to promote their products.
The political theater and the consumer culture are two of the easiest ways for politicians and distributors to rise to power, no matter how ethical their methods may be. Said politicians and distributors have taken artifice from being a deceitful tactic to a lifestyle that they depend on, which only further proves Charles Hedges’ opinion on the matter. As stated previously, politicians do not win elections based on their, much like distributors do not sell products solely based on originality or usefulness. Both of these need more of an “edge” if they want to reach the top, which is the exact reason they use artifice.
Carly I am giving your argument a 7. I believe you truly understood what the author was looking for. I think your essay was well-written. If I could critique you in any way, I would suggest you give more specific examples inside you 3 main examples. However, understand your examples were strong and convince me to believe what Chris Hedges has to say.
DeleteCarly, I am also giving your essay a 7. You used good vocabulary and strong points to back up your thoughts. Given the time limit on this essay you wrote a good amount, however, my only recommendation is use your time to be descriptive. Very well done! This was a hard topic and you did very well breaking it down.
DeleteCarly I believe I would give you a score between a 6 and a 7. I thought that your main ideas were very strong but you could’ve been more descriptive. It was very good.
DeletePart 1: Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Without action, you aren’t going anywhere.” Disobedience is a human virtue that has created change throughout our worlds history from men like Mahatma Gandhi himself, Bill Jenkins, and Martin Luther King Jr. who had all made a difference in our society. These men have stood up against many transgressors to fight for what they believe in. Due to being disobedient, they have made our world a better place.
ReplyDeleteMahatma Gandhi was the leader of India’s non-violent civil disobedience movement against British rule and in South Africa who advocated for the civil rights of Indians. Growing up, Gandhi was a very poor student who was afraid of public speaking. However, before he was assassinated he was imprisoned in India, but then took part in a six-day fast to protest the British decision to segregate the “untouchables”. The “untouchables” were those on the lowest class of India’s social pyramid. He also took part in other protests, trying to create a difference for those who were being discriminated. If Gandhi would not have been disobedient, and instead decided to watch many people suffer, India could be having worse discrimination issues right now. Disobedience here, changed the lives of many.
Bill Jenkins was a government epidemiologists. He tried to expose the unethical Tuskegee syphilis study in the 1960s and devoted the rest of his career to fighting racism in health care. Dr. Jenkins was working as a statistician at the United States Public Health Service in Washington in the 1960s when he first learned of the infamous Tuskegee study. In that study, the federal government deceived hundreds of black men in Alabama where into believing that their so-called “bad blood” was being treated when it wasn’t. It was called “bad blood” because they were unaware that they had syphilis. The researchers had wanted to see what unchecked syphilis would do to the human body and used these men as guinea pigs, without their informed consent. This disease is normally transmitted by sexual contact and can cause brain damage, paralysis, blindness and death, ran its course in several of the men. Some infected their wives, who passed it on to some of their children. The study lasted from 1932 to 1972. After seeing that this experiment was ethically wrong and racist, Dr. Jenkins encountered the virtue of disobedience. He wrote an article about what was going on at the time and continued to send it around to medical professionals, hoping it would soon get picked up by a higher power. This only happened after he was told by the Tuskegee supervisor not to worry about it. Soon, however, another epidemiologists named Peter Buxtun, came across the article and soon sent it to the New York Times, where it was published on the front page. Dr. Jenkins disobedience saved the futures of many in the medical field. If he would not have done this, this experiment could still be happening. Yet, it could be with a worse disease. This is another strong example where being disobedient has helped change the world.
Part 2: Martin Luther King Jr, a man who has became known as the most visible spokesperson and leader in the civil rights movement. Unfortunately, at the time black people were strongly discriminated against. Therefore, Martin Luther King Jr. became the leader of the African Americans organization to fight for civil rights. King was arrested, his house was bombed, he was subjected to personal abuse, and many other cruel actions. However, he is famous for his “I Have A Dream” speech. This speech is well known today and is looked at highly by many. Due to his disobedience, King was assassinated on April 4, 1968. Yet, today he is known to be not only the symbolic leader of American blacks but also a world figure, he was awarded five honorary degrees, was named man of the year in 1963 by Times Magazine, and was the youngest man to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. His disobedience has seriously changed the United States of The America. Our society used to treat black men and women as if they had no human dignity. The world has became a new place in thanks to Martin Luther King Jr.
ReplyDeleteDisobedience means to refuse or fail to obey the rules or someone of authority. All three of these men have disobeyed the rules of the country or revolted against an organization. Because of their bravery, our society has changed in some sort of way. This is exactly why Osaka’s Wilde has a strong belief that disobedience is mans original virtue. Fortunately, I could not agree more. Our country and society would be totally different, for the worse, if people did not revolt and stand up for what they believe in.
Lauryn I will give you a 6 on this essay. It is well done but here is my recommendation, give examples of people today who are changing the world. We can worry about past but how do we know when we need to do it and when it is right to do so? Great work otherwise and great job on the research.
DeleteCorruption can be found everywhere if one digs deep enough, but in political theater and consumer culture, an entire new level of extortion of the truth can be discovered. Because of the truth concerning deception in society, artifice, although it is not entirely moral, could be considered the most essential skill in the image-based cultures of the past and present.
ReplyDeleteThroughout known history, artifice has been an important tool in obtaining and maintaining power. One of the most infamous leaders in history, Adolph Hitler, was guilty of this. On his journey to becoming “Der Führer” or “The Leader,” Hitler promised a broken Germany strong leadership and a prosperous economy after its devastating loss in World War I. His radical ideas led him to prison, but he was eventually freed and rose to power after Germany fell into a depression. He put a mask on until he had absolute power. Once there, the mask came off, and the true horror behind Hitler’s ideas became evident, leading to the deaths of millions.
The United States is oftentimes deemed “the greatest nation on earth,” but even though this might be true, it has had its fair share of struggles with corruption and deceit as well. In the late 1800s, political machines were taking over the freedom of individuals’ rights to vote for the candidate they saw was best qualified. They did this by targeting the most desperate in the community and promising them aid in exchange for votes. William “Boss” Tweed is an excellent example of a notorious leader who ran one of these machines. Like any good politician, Tweed used his cunningness to gain and maintain power. Once the discovery of this crime occurred, Tweed was arrested, and eventually died in prison.
Although widely related to, artifice is not entirely limited to politics. In modern society, problems have arisen in multitudes of companies, including the internationally recognized social media platform Facebook, concerning cover-ups and treachery. Facebook has leaked millions of its users’ data, leading to a serious trust issue. Behind the friendly pictures lies a more sinister truth.
Although oftentimes morally unsound, artifice is an important quality for many politicians and companies around the globe. Concerning political theater and consumer culture, deception is the truth behind success.
-Regis
Regis, you did a good job breaking down this topic and using examples to support your argument. My only recommendation is to give more supportive reasons for your argument and be descriptive. Well done!
DeleteAlthough your essay was well articulated, I would give you a five because I don't necessarily think your application to the quote with facebook and Hitler was in depth enough. One could argue that Hitler had always shown his true face and wasn't living a fantasy life drawn up by him because he did release Mein Kampf while imprisoned, which outlined what he planned to do about nations surrounding Germany and the mass genocide he committed. Now, if you had argued that he was manipulating Germany into thinking he was their savior then I believe it could be a practical application, but because you didn't necessarily go into specifics I don't necessarily understand where you were going with your paragraph. The same goes with your paragraph with facebook, it's too brief to draw a conclusion from as to what you're exactly comparing it to. I think if you were to go more in depth this essay definitely could have been a seven or an eight.
DeleteRegis, I believe that this essay was worth a 7. I thought the structure was very well done but I was a little confused at times. However, it was a good read.
DeleteAlong with Bryce, I believe this was worth a 7. I liked how you used Hitler as an example because that is absolutely true. However, I wish it would have been a little more structured because your thoughts seemed scattered. Don’t get me wrong, this is overall very well done.
DeleteThis is Regis's.
ReplyDeleteOscar Wilde, an Irish author believes disobedience is mans greatest virtue. He claims that through disobedience and rebellion, progress shines through. History has clearly proven Wilde’s assumption. Society has roughly demolished segregation, racism, and women’s suffrage because of people or groups with enough courage to stick up for what they believed in, even though it was disobedient. Due to the fact that the human race has came a long way from practicing rebellion and free will, Oscar Wilde’s belief that disobedience is mans greatest virtue is ultimately appropriate.
ReplyDeleteRosa Parks is a prime example or someone who broke the law to change the world. She was an African-American Civil Rights activist who stood up for what she believed in by just sitting down. On the bus she was riding in, she was asked by a conductor to give up her seat to a white passenger, but she refused, and she was arrested for disobeying the racist law requiring black people to give up their seats to white people when the bus was full. Her braveness led to a Supreme Court decision banning segregation on public transportation. Today, there is almost no restaurant or bus that does not give everyone, no matter their color, equal rights.
Susan B Anthony is an American social reformer and feminist who played a large role in the women’s suffrage movement.She was a founder of the Women’s Loyal National League and collected a large number of signatures in support of the abolition of slavery.She fought for both women and African Americans, and was arrested and convicted in a widely publicized trial. Anthony was a fighter for the amendment giving women the right to vote. This became the nineteenth amendment, that some people know as the Anthony Amendment.
Lastly, the March for Life, an annual march where people come together to protest against both the practice and legality of abortion. Thousands of people gather in Washington, D.C. to fight for what they believe in, even though they may face judgment and hate. Students pray outside of abortion clinics and get spit on and cussed at.
Oscar Wilde was right when he said disobedience is mans greatest virtue. Without strong humans revolting and standing up for what they believe in, this country would not be a country of freedom, but rather a country of hate and discrimination.
Emily I would give you a 6. It was very well written but still have a few things to clean up. For example, your conclusion was a bit to small and to broad for my liking you need to remember that this is where you win the argument in the essay. I did love how you went in order of history to what we do today. Great work!
DeleteThe example you provided truly support the position of civil disobedience that you are taking. If I were to rate your essay, I would give it a five or six. I think you could bump up your score if you improve the diction. Overall, nice work on this one.
Delete-Regis
DeleteI would give you a 6 for this essay Emily. I thought it was well written and I believe you had a decent amount of applicable information. However, at times it was hard to follow. It could’ve easily been improved, though.
DeleteEmily, your examples are very clear and relevant. It would have be interesting if you could have tied them together with disobedience more. I would give this essay a 7 because of the great examples!
DeleteEmily, I would give this essay a 6 because overall you do a great job proving your point and you picked out excellent examples. Your essay is wonderful, I would just like to see a little more detail throughout.
DeleteIn today’s society, the media is flooded with fake news, and the ideality of a person seems to become less and less genuine. Although artifice is seen as the face of political leaders and consumer culture, it is not the most essential skill because it leads to the manipulation of people by clouding their perception and is an act of bad faith, a venial sin. Why would something so degrading be considered essential? The Cohen vs. Trump testimony, Adolf Hitler, and nutrition facts all serve as great examples as to why artifice should be frowned upon rather than praised and glorified.
ReplyDeleteDuring late February 2019, former lawyer of President Donald Trump, Michael Cohen, testified against Trump which caused an uproar across the United States. Secrets of Donald Trump were unleashed and all Americans were exposed to the shocking incidents in which the president was hiding all along. Whether true or not, people saw some of what has been behind the mask all along. Donald Trump is not one to withhold any strong opinions, but just like all political leaders, he used artifice to make himself appeal as more admirable. So, when Cohen released this information, people began to rethink their impression of Donald Trump. If he lied about things such as SAT scores, then what other, more significant, ordeals could he be keeping from us? America wants an honest leader, not a conniver, therefore, making artifice nothing but an impurity among other skills.
Adolf Hitler serves as one of the most popular historical figures known today. However, this march to fame was through the excessive use of artifice. Hitler was the leader of Nazi Germany and was a believer in antisemitism, or hatred of the Jews. He murder millions of innocent Jewish people and manipulated people into thinking that the Jews were the cause of anything and everything bad in Germany. Adolf Hitler gained followers and and morphed the image of a superior country by mass propaganda. His lack of honesty and sincerity (form of artifice) was what caused the extermination of so many people.
In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, it was not a requirement to label the nutrition facts and ingredients on food packages. Producers could put an item on the shelf and no one would know how long it’s been there, what it contains, or even how many calories it was. A main concern was the meat packing industry because meats would spoil and rats would infest the slaughter houses, making it unsanitary and unhealthy. Soon after the publication of the book, The Jungle, it became a federal law to label every food item with nutrition facts so that customers were aware of where their food as been and what was in it. This use of artifice caused hundreds and thousands of sicknesses, but yet this deception in consumer culture is an ideal quality to pertain?
The Cohen vs. Trump testimony, Adolf Hitler, and nutrition facts are just three of the many examples that proves artifice to be a bad quality. It is not essential in political theater and consumer culture because in the end, it always seems to do more harm than good. The manipulation and deception of people are not things one should strive for, but rather focus on the truth because that is what builds the bonds of not only a strong nation, but between people as well.
I think that you did good here, and I like your topics, they are relevant and you helped me to understand the whole Cohen thing. I believe that you could've mentioned an instance where artifice was used for good to provide a balance in your writing but I understand that saying that would go against your view. Well done.
DeleteWelp I'm an idiot and forgot to rate it. I think yours is around a 6 or 7, it is quite good but not what I would call exceptional.
DeleteMaddie, I would give you a seven, but it could be definitely bumped up to an eight if you were to correct one portion of your essay. The main issue with your essay is in your paragraph about Adolf Hitler. In all actuality, Adolf Hitler did show his true face when he produced Mein Kampf, which outlined his war campaign and the mass genocide. Now, if you were to argue that he made his people believe he was a great leader because of made up characteristics then I would agree with you. However, if you were to stick with manipulating people through propaganda you would have to outline how he made his own artificial reality in order to manipulate Germany. Either or would work and improve your essay, I honestly think it's an issue with clarity about what you're writing about.
DeleteMaddie, I thought you did a great job with this and it was very easy to follow. Chris pretty much summed up what I would’ve said but if it were me scoring this, I would have given you a 7 or 8. Good job!
DeleteIn political theater and in consumer culture the best skill to have is artifice. All of our lives our mothers have been old us to be truthful but society tells us if we want to reach the heights we must trick people. In consumer culture especially, artifice is the most essential skill and must be learned, used morally, and Identified. People use this everyday but it is on people to see the correct and good way to use it.
ReplyDeleteAs a broad spectrum of artifice companies use them all the time. For example, bud light commercials make beer seem like it is a great time and also makes you more confident in their commercials. Companies also have commercials that could make you look “hot” if you buy this swimsuit. When it is really just a photograph that has been edited to the extreme. We are getting to the point that we will never know what is genuinely true of if it is just a hoax trying to steal our money.
Athletes use artifice now a days more than ever. Most of the time it’s is because they want people to think they are good people when they are not. They try to give themselves off s good people when in lol reality they are making some poor life decisions. They also use artifice in their actual physical ability. Derek Jeter for example lied to the world about being some great baseball player who was naturally gifted but soon to find out he was using steroids to make himself better. He tricked all the fans and the league.
Harry Houdini probably was one of the best magicians of all time. He lived on the power of artifice. He was so good at tricking people into believe he had magical powers because of the amazing stunts he had done just by tricking the mind. He took advantage of his ability to make himself a world wide name in history.
Artificial is word we see almost every day. We see the “artificial flavors” and are starting to lose sight of what is natural. Artifice needs to be taught and adapted because there is no doubt that it a part of becoming successful. We need to make sure we are using it in the right way and for the right reasons.
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DeleteThis is pretty good overall, it is long enough to get the point down but not be boring. I like that you mentioned the grocery market example that really tied it into everyone's lives. However, I think I would have liked to see an example of how we could use artifice for good since that is a main point you made. I suppose the Houdini example could've been this since he provided hope and entertainment, actually. But I think pointing this out would have been nice. And I would rate yours a 5 or 6, it was good but seemed almost abrupt, like you had good information, but it was just written down without a whole lot of coordination.
DeleteDisobedience and refusal to conform is the basis for how the human race has gotten this far. It is a necessary evil to progress and one that has done more good than bad, even though bad can sometimes still emerge. This has been made clear through history, even since the arguable first of history: Adam and Eve. Along with Genesis, there are also examples such as the turn to science and the American Revolution.
ReplyDeleteAdam and Eve start out happy and content in the Garden with but one simple rule: don’t eat the fruit off that one tree. But yet they do. In doing this they bring about much good, such as knowledge and self awareness. However, this also gets them kicked out of the Garden and brings upon them the truths of life such as pain and suffering. While pain and suffering are bad, they are a crucial part of life. And they are a worthwhile sacrifice to having gained the knowledge of self. Adam and Eve would have been able to live in the Garden without and problems, but they would’ve had to live without ever knowing that they were naked. It may not be apparent that this act of theirs brought about good when it is often referred to as bad and the origin of human sin, but it brought about the knowledge that they could never have know before then, and that is good.
Another instance of rebellion is where people started learning more of science and turned away from other beliefs that didn’t have much support. A notable event here is the belief that the Earth is flat, it is obviously not flat, but people once believed that. Through science and experiments, people all around the world have been able to discover new things and learn from a most reliable source: fact. The Earth is not the center of the universe and the sun does not rise because Ra commands it to. These are assertions that have credibility behind them because science has explored them and found out the provable facts of them. Back in the day, people criticized the scientist who claimed the Earth was round for being wrong, but he wasn’t, and that is the good brought about by this rebellion.
And one that has had a big impact on the current world is that of the American Revolution, the turn away from Britain and the turn toward freedom. This was not an easy struggle, but most would agree that it was good. Despite it bringing about many deaths in the Revolutionary War, it allowed free practice of religion and established a democracy. This great rebellion brought about some of the great positives of the current world, it set a stage for democracy and freedoms, that not everyone has yet to attain.
This is essence of disobedience in this context, it brings about bad because it is disobedience, it had a negative connotation for a reason, but more importantly, it brings about a good that is greater. It progresses the human race forward, and it is what causes us to keep ticking.
Artifice, a deceiving tactic, is the most essential skill for not only political leaders but those in consumer culture. When using it, those who are deemed famous or powerful, can gain more popularity because they seem innocent to the public eye. Artifice is the most essential tool in today’s world, and people and organizations such as Hitler, Apple, and the Kardashian’s have all used it to gain popularity and success. Although it may be deemed immoral to use it, it does improve the achievements of the person or persons using it.
ReplyDeleteAdolf Hitler, a powerful leader during World War II, is clearly a bad person. Although, to the society that he ruled over, he was good at the time. Hitler came into power when Germany was suffering after the devastation of World War I. He used his charisma to win over the hearts of his people and in their desperation for change, they idolized him and gave him power. In many of Hitler’s speeches, he starts out quiet and reserved building up to his main points. As he continues on, he becomes enraged and hits the podium at which he speaks. The people loved it because they were just at angry at Germany as he was. He quickly gained power, and as it is very well known, began the Holocaust. He used artifice to get what he wanted. By appearing to citizens as someone who just wanted to make right, he gained his power and started World War II. Hitler’s use of artifice is a very extreme case of deceit, but still it proves how seeming good can get you exactly what you want, success.
Apple is a multi-billionaire company that has also used artifice again and again. Taking a look at just how much the organization has gained in money and power in the last ten years, it is easy to realize the company is benefitting from certain tactics. Ads and commercials for Apple show up just about everywhere, and each one is showing a new product that is sure to make life better. The products can each do something amazing which makes it seem as though the company is trying to help you in this ever evolving game of life. Yet, in two months time, something even more new and better will be released, and everyone will be buying it. This money goes straight into the pockets of the corporation owners and stockholders. At first glance, Apple products seem very helpful, yet when a closer look is taken, its realized that this company does not care about its consumers. To sum it up, Apple just wants the money. It doesn’t care if you have technical difficulties or break the product after two weeks, they send their buyers out to buy another or to go risk spending money on trying to fix it. Apple is a champion at using artifice for its advantage. They tell people the products are good and will do good for them, but most times, it just causes heart break and empty pockets, at least for the consumer anyways.
The Kardashians are also big time users of artifice. Their reality TV show gives them each great personalities and have them all looking their bests. The family has made millions of the show alone, but many have created brands or things of the like. Their presence on social media also gives public view to their daily lives and thoughts. They appeal to the people giving them cliff hangers on episodes or coming out with a new product which catches the eye of many. The group appears to be harmless but they are quite the opposite. The Kardashians are swimming in the money and what they do with the money is immoral. They buy expensive makeup, clothes, and houses to make themselves look better. Although, just to make sure they still have the trust of their fans, they will give to charities or do something special to make it look like they care. In reality they are deceiving everyone with their good looks and charms. This family only cares about themselves and how much money they are making.
Artifice is a highly used tactic that helps gain people popularity and success. People that are known by many all use it to their advantage. While it is not morally good, it does get someone exactly what they want.
Anna
Excellent job, Anna. I rate this a 9. You definitely used relevant topics filled with details. Very in-depth.
DeleteAnna I’m giving your argument a 5. I think you had great examples for this topic. I think your ideas were there. However, I think they needed more information. I think your conclusion could have been stronger. However, good job! This was a hard topic.!
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ReplyDeletePart I
ReplyDeleteIn Chris Hedge’s, “Empire of Illusion”, it is stated that “the most essential skill . . . is artifice.” However, “the greatest nation”, America, in its current age, is falling apart due to lies and deceit. How much longer will it take for the American people to discover all of the lies America has tried to cover up? Although artifice is a skill that has been utilized through the world, it is not the most essential skill. In a world that is drowning with clickbait and fake news, it is hard to believe that the United States was ever prosperous without all the lies. Former President Lyndon B. Johnson, YouTube, and Planned Parenthood are prime examples of the use of manipulation and deceit.
Presidents and other political leaders have, arguably, the greatest reputation for misleading the public. Many political leaders, like presidents, lie during their campaigns to become elected. Lyndon B. Johnson was the 36th President of the United States, serving from the years 1963-1969. In 1964, two different United States ships were attacked in Vietnam’s Gulf. President LBJ stated that they were “unprovoked”, however, in later investigations it was revealed that Lyndon B. Johnson had been spying on Vietnam for months. Lyndon B. Johnson responded by saying, “For all I know, our Navy was shooting at whales out there.” This brings up into question, why was the American Navy in the Vietnam Gulf shooting whales? Clearly this is not logical. He lied about not knowing what the Navy was doing, even when people stepped forward and stated that he was, indeed, spying on Vietnam. For this reason, America entered into the Vietnam War.
The term ‘clickbait’ has gained popularity in the social media empire, especially within YouTube. Clickbait is a term used to describe how video influencers try to make the video they produced interesting by making the title something unique or unusual to try to increase their views on a video. Often times, the title misleads the viewers into believing that the video is on a subject matter that is not present or something that is glazed over within the video. This is often used within the ‘YouTube community’. The average person becomes enraged because this was not the video they were looking for,; however, there is some need for sympathy. It is, after, all, the way in which many of these video influencers make their living. It is almost a necessity to the insurance of their livelihood. Lying is “just in the job description.”
Part II
DeleteAn organization that has had an increased following is Planned Parenthood. The name Planned Parenthood gives off the impression that they are preparing people to become responsible parents like Natural Family Planning does, right? Well in reality it is the main abortion provider within the United States. Margret Sanger, the founder, believed in the “stabilization and segregation of people with disabilities.” She also believed in the dehumanization and extermination of African Americans and Hispanics, following in the footsteps of Hitler’s own ideologies. Most Planned Parenthoods are located around impoverished black neighborhoods. However, Planned Parenthood places a facade in front of their corporation to persuade people that they are “protecting a woman’s right to her own body.” People within the pro-choice movement stand beside Margret Sanger and Planned Parenthood without even knowing that she stood for the extermination of African Americans, Hispanics, and the disabled.
Even though lying is so prevalent within the world, especially the United States, it is critical to know all the lies sooner or later will be debunked. Former President LBJ, YouTube, and Planned Parenthood are just three examples of the endless amount of businesses, communities, and people who attend on misguide and mislead people. The world is changing, and fast. However, holding up the importance of morality and stating the truth must be more prevalent in society than what it is today. As stated in the Gospel of Luke 6:39-45, “Can one blind person guide another? Surely both will fall into a pit?...Take the log out of your own eye first, and then you will see clearly enough to take out the splinter in your brother's eyes....Good people draw what is good from the store of goodness in their hearts; bad people draw what is bad from the store of badness. For the words of the mouth flow out of what fills the heart.”
Grace, I'm gonna give yours a 7. It was very well put together and thought out. I like how you used the Bible also in your writing. I would've like to seen you bring it together a little bit more at the very end, not just straight go into the Bible verse.
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ReplyDeleteAlthough typically perceived as a vice, disobedience has brought historically some of the most progressive reforms that have formed modern day society as a result. Thus, in some instances as Oscar Wilde states “it is through disobedience that progress has been made,” because in order for reform and tribulation to be met there must be conflict in the first place, that is in some cases disobedience. Historically looking at America, it truly is a nation built upon disobedience and the unwillingness to be oppressed.
ReplyDeletePrior to the Revolutionary War, America was being repeatedly oppressed by Britain, its protectorate, with tariffs, government influence, and social limitations. Ultimately, the citizens of the United States rose up disobediently to rebel against the oppression that Britain was casting down upon them, which resulted in the Revolutionary War. After many years and patriotic lives lost, America gained its independence from the oppressive nation that is Britain, which resulted in the Declaration of Independence, liberating Americans from Britain.
When the Eighteenth Amendment began, America’s most lucrative business -alcoholic beverages- were prevented from making sales. This lead to bootlegging and a mob-like mentality promoting speakeasies so that American citizens could illegally get their alcoholic fix. After thousands of arrests and the ineffectiveness of the Eighteenth Amendment became apparent due to the disobedience from mobsters and American citizens, the Twenty-first Amendment was enacted, thus, allowing the sale and consumption of alcohol once again due because of the disobedience from American citizens.
More recently, during September Eleventh, 2001, an airplane was heading for Washington D.C.in order to crash into the building during the terrorist attack. However, after Americans had realized what the intentions were for the plane they had decided to bombard the pilot’s station with items until the door busted open and they could subdue the terroristic pilot, but sadly the original pilot was murdered, which lead to the plane crashing in Pennsylvania. Their rebellious actions against the terrorist backed by the terrorized, yet patriotic, citizens lead to more flight restrictions and thousands if not millions of lives being saved.
Through the disobedience and rebellious actions of Americans during the Revolutionary War, prohibition, and September Eleventh brought about a greater good that is liberation, a non-restrictive government, and needed flight restrictions. So, it is true that disobedience is a valuable human trait and it does indeed promote social progress, afterall, that is what America was founded upon.
Logan, I five your essay a 7 or 8. I thought it was very wel written, and I liked your idea of how 9/11 applies to the topic. Your introduction paragraph also really explains the prompt and leads into all your points well.
DeleteI give your essay a 6 or 7. I was surprised that you put the put the bootlegging bit in there, I don’t think that it could technically be classified as a “good, moving society for the better” topic, but you made it fit.
DeleteIf no one ever disobeyed what was considered acceptable, a nation or group would never reconsider their way of life to consider if they are wrong and correct their mistakes, and it is for this reason that I believe that disobedience leads to progress in homes, work places, and society. Without disobedience, the nation that each of us gets to call our own would not have existed today. It was through the disobedient acts such as the Boston Tea Party in which the United States sent a message to their oppressive government in England that they wanted to be free. Eventually the Revolutionary War was fought and the United States was seen as free country.
ReplyDeleteOther wonderful things have also come about from rebellion. It was illegal for slaves to read or write back when slavery was prevalent in the United States. However, if the African Americans had never rebelled against those laws and fought their white oppressors, they would never have gained freedom. Books, too, contain examples of when cruel treatment and oppression led to people feeling the need to rebel and light the spark to start a change. The characters in the Hunger Games that rebelled against the government were being killed for what they were doing and very few people wanted to side with them because they knew it was against the law. The characters stuck to the plan, though. They rebelled and disobeyed and fought the authorities. In the end, they won and were able to defeat the bad government in order to progress into a better country. Rebellion comes a great cost. Hundreds of people died on both sides in order for the bad situation to be made better. The country of Panem became great and a happy, equal place because a single group had the courage to break the law in hope for a better life.
Sometimes it is right for the people to oppress the authorities because they are not always right. There is a leader to every movement, and that leader is always human. One human may think that something is right, and one might think it is wrong. It all depends on how the person was brought up and what they were taught. There are many situations in which disobedience would end in a negative manner, but also many that it would lead to a positive outcome.
Stephen, I would score your essay with a 6. I thought your evidence was very strong, especially when you referenced books that related to the action of disobedience. The only thing I really noticed about this that I would change would be the use of “our”. Other than that, I thought this was well done for this topic.
DeleteStephen, I am giving your response a 6 as well. I really liked that you mentioned other ideas aside from history. The Hunger Games reference was very well thought out and a great touch to this piece. Your conclusion was also very well written. Great job.
DeleteI liked the diversity of your examples. From ideas of history to thoughts from The Hunger Games, your proved your point very well. To improve this essay, I would recommend elaborating equally on all examples. Overall, I give your essay a 6.
Delete“Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is a man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” This quote from Irish author Oscar Wilde reveals the belief that disobedience is, in fact, a human trait and is actually positive. He had the belief that progress in society is made through disobedience. The power and strength of this country was formed on the unusual act of disobedience. This country was established through the bold acts of disobedience from some of the most influential people, such as the President of the United States Donald J. Trump, the Little Rock Nine, and Harriet Tubman. The future progress of this country must rely on future acts such as these.
ReplyDeleteThe actions of President Trump may cause plenty of controversy throughout the nation, but his actions call the attention to the needs of the country. The nation was in need of a president like this, whether it is obvious or not. With the way society is today, a progressive leader is a leader the country needs. This can’t be misunderstood, his actions are very unruly and morally incorrect at times, but sometimes his disobedience is necessary.
Another instance in which disobedience helped prevail from a hard time in this nation was during the early times of segregation and discrimination of African Americans. The leadership of Harriet Tubman and the courage of the Little Rock Nine instilled a greater sense of unity in the nation. The underground railroad was instituted on the basis of disobedience. She went against the norm and did what she needed to her for her fellow African Americans people. Without her disobedient acts, it is uncertain how the future in America for Tubman and her people would have turned out. Also, the courage of the Little Rock Nine further advanced the unity in the country. Their actions of disobedience by standing up to the Arkansas school system and demanding equality proved to the nation the greater power of the African American people. What they did was seen as utterly disrespectful, but it saved the equality in America looking back on it.
Disobedience is a human trait that must be instilled in order to improve the social progress of this country. Some of the most polarizing people and groups of America carried the trait of disobedience, and it must continue in order to build the strength of the nation.
Bryce, I liked the quote at the beginning of your essay because it is what you are arguing. The examples you provided do support civil disobedience, but a few more descriptions would also be beneficial. I'd rate this a five or six. Nice work on this.
Delete-Regis
Like Reg said, I really like how you began your essay with a quote; it reflected what your main argument was really well! Also, your use of history throughout the essay proved that you were well versed on the topic. In order to better your work, I would have offered a counterargument. I give this a 6 or 7!
Delete“A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly,...” The nationally recognized organization, Boy Scouts of America, puts trust as their first virtue in the Scout law. However, many political leaders disguise the truth in order to get things accomplished. Are things actually getting accomplished; the U.S government just recently ended their longest government shutdown?What if political leaders could trust one another, would this situation have ever happened?
ReplyDeleteThroughout the long history of American Presidents not many have been Scouts. John F Kennedy was one of the few Scouts to hold the title of President. Kennedy was a well liked President and accomplished many things during his short presidency. He was in the Oval Office at the time of the Cold War. A time when no gun was fired, but deals were made by word and trust. He was also a leading influence on the mission to the moon. The president was built on the foundation of the Scout Law, he was trusted, and things got done.
The 2016 presidential campaign was filled with trust issues. Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton was continually questioned about the email scandal she was apart of. Could the fact the she could not be trusted, due to the email scandal, have lead to her not winning the presidency. President Trump also experience issues throughout his campaign. Many Americans found him untrustworthy due to his sexual actions. In the end, he was elected president, it the fact they he could not be trusted continues into the work he tries to do in office. The idea of trust between parties has been lost; making it almost impossible to accomplish anything.
Trust has become a required element in society in order accomplish anything. When people are trusted they feel safe, and when people feel safe work gets done. With every decision comes the idea of trust. Trust that the waiter will not tamper with the food, trust that the bus driver will get kids to school safely, trust that the an employee will not steal someone’s lunch from the fridge, or trust that the person elected into political office will accomplish the goals of their citizens.
Jacob, I think I would give your essay a 5. This is because you never outright discussed the claim of Chris Hedges. You make some great points about the element of trust, but I think you could have made the realation of your essay to that of artifice a little bit clearer. Other than that, your essay was well written and I especially liked how you incorporated Boy Scouts into it- that touch made it unique.
DeleteI liked how you included part of the scout motto, and related it in your essay. I agree on your position that the two parties no longer trust each other. Given all the information you provided I can tell you know a lot about this topic. You could have given a couple examples as to what Kennedy did well in his short presidency, and touched on the claim of Chris Hedges. But overall It is very well written I would give you a 6.
DeleteThis is Dan
DeleteJacob, I liked your incorporation of the Boy Scouts quote involving trust. I enjoyed reading your work and you definitely included some great points. I just think a little bit more points directly involving artifice could have been mentioned. The Chris Hedges claim was not directly mentioned and that might have been helpful too! Overall, I would give you a 6!
DeleteI really enjoyed his you incorporated a little bit of Boy Scouts into your paper. Also, discussing the presidential debate was a smart one! Overall, I would give your paper a 6 since you did not explicitly say what Chris Hedges was talking about.
DeleteIn 1891, Oscar Wilde claimed “Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” As we have learned and read throughout the the many history classes, Wilde’s quote proves true. Dating back to as far as the history books go, we have been taught about many historical lessons and events that led to big changes because of disobedience and the wrongdoing of infamous people that led to where we are in society now.
ReplyDeleteA very well known example of a “good rebel” is Harriet Tubman, an African American woman who lead many other African Americans out of slavery through the Underground Railroad. Tubman went against the slave owners and brought basically a whole new world for the slaves. Tubman was a pioneer for the changing of civil rights for African Americans, and who knows the rights they would have today without her.
On a much broader scale, it is also part of many people’s daily lives to get in trouble and do rebellious actions, whether it be in school, in a palace of work, a sport, at home, or in public. Sometimes, doing things wrong and getting in trouble teaches us a valuable life lesson. Most of the time, we learn not to do that specific thing again or something even remotely close to that action. Being disciplined for that wrongdoing could also be good for the physical and mental health of ourselves and others as well.
On a more positive note, the March for Life held in Washington D.C. each year protests to heartbreaking practice of abortion. Hundreds of thousands of people gather in the downtown streets of the city and march and pray together to end all kinds of abortion. These people face hate, judgement, discrimination, and much more that can all bring one down. But, despite that, those people all continue to stand up fort hat the believe to end abortion.
When Oscar Wilde first said this quote, he was speaking of many historical events and things he had previously experienced. While yes, many of the greatest examples come from history, many current events and issues are perfect ways to describe that disobedience is the greatest virtue. Without the people that rebel for the good, we most likely would not be where we are currently in society.
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DeleteI am rating your essay a 4. Make sure to have a strong thesis and introduce your main ideas in the introductory paragraph. I think you had some good ideas, but they could be explained a little better.
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ReplyDeleteDisobedience is said by Oscar Wilde to be one of man’s original virtues, and in many instances led to the world we live in today. People such as Jackie Robinson, Martin Luther King and Donald Trump all disobeyed something in life that made the world a better place. Sometimes it takes someone willing to rebel against what everyone else thinks in order to make a difference.
ReplyDeleteJackie Robinson is known as the first African American baseball player to play professionally. The process of his journey was no easy task, he was often ridiculed for even trying to play. Nobody at the time wanted him to play, people often told him that he was taking too big of a risk trying to just play a game. When he was playing, the opposing teams pitcher would also through the ball at his head intentionally trying to get him knocked out, but no matter what he got back up. If Jackie didn’t disobey what everyone said and take the beating he did then he wouldn’t have achieved the success he had and been famous. Donald Trump is another person who is known to disobey a few things. Trump does what he believes is right no matter what others believe, such as the Kim Jong Un summit. By meeting with Kim Jong Un people believed that it would give him power and acknowledgement as equal, but yet Trump still did it for our country’s safety. Martin Luther King was one of the leading civil war activists. He fought for equal rights for African Americans and for that he was murdered. All these people stood up for what they believed in and made a huge difference in the world. Rebellion is a part of life and that is why I do agree that disobedience is one of man’s original virtue. As you continue to grow older you will have different beliefs as others, whether you are rebelling against a black lives matter march or a right to life march you are showing what you believe in contrary to popular belief. Disobedience doesn’t always have to be bad.
Dan, I think that this essay has great potential, but I feel as if you got lazy and did not try as much as you would on an actual exam. The first paragraph was good, but then it fell apart. You meshed three body paragraphs and a conclusion all into one, and it made it very confusing. Also, there was not good balance. You talked about Jackie Robinson forever and then had only a few things to say about Trump and Martin Luther King Jr.. I’m addition, I would enhance your vocabulary some more. You had a few good words, but I know you can do better. I give this a 4. As stated before, there is potential!
DeleteI would give this a 4/5. You started off well and had some good points to build off. However, you did not build off of them.
DeleteIn the book Empire of Illusion, author Chris Hedges states that “the most essential skill... is artifice.” Though this claim seems pessimistic, I believe that it reigns true. After giving it some thought, this statement is highly true in the light of politics and consumerism.
ReplyDeleteAs it stands now, artifice in necessary in the success of a politician. Politicians that have shown transparency and have taken action on problems they see have failed. Honesty and sincerity is no longer valued among people. Instead, the mere appearance of these qualities is valued. A candidate that appears to be sincere but is skilled in the skill of artifice will be the one who wins elections, rather than one who is transparent. Donald Trump is a clear example of someone skilled in artifice. During his election, he appeared to be charming and showed strong respectable qualities. Today, our country swims with news of Trump’s lies and dishonorable past experiences. Artifice can be identified in many of Trump’s actions.
In a different light, media survives on artifice. Anything displayed through media is worthless without artifice tagged with it. Our culture thrives off of drama. What’s Proactiv without Adam Levine? What’s Capital One without Jennifer Garner? Brands succeed off of endorsements with celebrities. Without a popular face attached to a product, it will likely be forgotten or lost in the sea of other brands buying into artifice.
Artifice is indeed the most essential skill in politics and consumerism today. Without artifice, politicians would fail and even the best products would not be appreciated. Artifice is second-nature to people. It has been adopted into the lifestyle of people across the world. By understanding artifice, one may detect it in society and be able to root out false advertising.
Bailey, I would give your essay somewhere around a 5 or 6. I really like your paragraph about artifice in politics, but I feel that the paragraph about artifice in consumerism could be made slightly clearer to really understand your point. Overall, your essay was well written and I enjoyed reading it.
DeleteBailey, I like your point of endorsements for brands with celebrities. You did a great job of covering everything involving artifice. You could have built on your idea of consumerism and brand deals a little bit more! Overall, I would give you a 6 or 7 due to the given time restraint.
DeleteI like how you said that without a face to a brand, the company will not succeed. Given the 40 mins you were given, I would give you a 6. You could have elaborated a bit more on what artifice is than what it helps.
DeleteBailey, I really liked the way you explained your examples. However, I feel as though you could have built much more and expanded some ideas. I would give you a 5, it was a very good description of you topic!
DeleteAt the heart of change is disobedience. Oscar Wilde effectively stated this when he said “Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” Without disobedience, our society would not be where it is today. If everyone chose to confine themselves to the cookie cutter mold, our world would certainly be a gray, bleak, unimaginable place.
ReplyDeleteMartin Luther King jr, Rosa Parks, Mahatma Gandhi, Susan B. Anthony, and Malala Yousafzai. These people have all changed the world through their disobedience. Martin Luther King jr and Rosa Parks were very instrumental in the civil rights movement and their disobedience and willingness to break the mold secured equal rights for African Americans. Mahatma Gandhi’s peaceful disobedience, met with lots of hardship and struggle, freed India from Great Britain’s rule. Susan B. Anthony, along with many other woman, gave women the ability to vote. These people were all met with great hardships in their journeys, but without their disobedience, the would we live in would be devoid of the privileges we enjoy today. Through their actions in the past, they changed the future for the better.
Malala Yousafzai a fantastic example of how progress is a product of disobedience. When she was just 10 years old, Malala’s home in Pakistan was seized by the Taliban and girls were permitted from going to school. Malala then “broke the mold” and began to very publicly fight for equal education rights for girls. Because of this, she was shot in the head in 2012, when she was just 15 years old. Malala survived and her family moved to England, where she continues to fight for equal education rights. For her efforts, Malala became the youngest winner of the Nobel Peace Prize at 17 years old, in 2015. Her story and rallying cry for change is helping to change the lives of girls in Pakistan and other similar countries. Change takes time, but because Malala was willing to disobey the rules when nobody else would, the world is a better place.
Not only did the heroes of the past change the world with their disobedience, but also the heroes of our present. At the heart of change is disobedience, and man will continue to rebel against the rules of society until he finds them just. Disobedience is just as necessary as obedience. Oscar Wilde was right in stating that disobedience is man’s original virtue. From the beginning of time to the present, history has shown that the way to spark change is through obedience. “Disobedience is the true foundation of liberty. The obedient must be slaves.” -Henry David Thoreau
This was so good, Sophie! At times I do believe there was a little repetition but your thoughts were clear and concise. You mentioned the present but did not give an example of who is currently changing the world through disobedience. I think this was roughly a 7.
DeleteI would say this is a 7/8. Oscar Wilde idea of disobedience was covered in great detail. The examples you used of people defying disobedience to achieve good was excellent.
Delete“We know what we are, but know not what we may be,” quoted by one of the most recognizable poets in world history, William Shakespeare. Without conflict, the people of the world would not know change and without change, there would simply be nothing. Through disobedience and rebellion, the world has been able to grow and progress forward for the betterment of society.
ReplyDeleteThroughout history, it is notable that human instinct is based on disobedience and rebellion when in times of struggle and unfairness. For example, the Women’s Suffrage Movement that began in the late 1800s, was a period in which women began to realize that in order to achieve reform, they needed to achieve the right to vote. The meeting that launched the suffrage movement was a womens’ rights convention that was held in Seneca Falls, New York. From that point forward, woman suffrage supporters worked to educate the public about the validity of woman suffrage. The main leaders of the movement were Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. These suffragists circulated petitions and lobbied Congress to pass a constitutional amendment to grant suffrage to women. Many politicians were unwilling to listen to a disenfranchised group that wanted to pass reform legislation. Due to this, women began to realize that in order to achieve reform, they needed to win the right to vote. The woman suffrage movement became a mass movement at the turn of the century. The idea that the only “true” woman was a devout, submissive wife and mother concerned exclusively with home and family was no longer just going to be “the norm.” In return, women refused to support the 15th Amendment and even allied with racists from the South who argued that white women’s votes could be used to neutralize those cast by African-Americans. Instead of arguing that women deserved the same rights and responsibilities as men because women and men were “created equal,” the new generation of activists argued that women deserved the vote because they were different from men. Slowly but surely, states began to extend the vote to women. During World War I, suffrage campaigns were put to a halt, but their argument was still advancing. The products that resulted from women’s work on behalf of the war effort, proved that women were just as supportive, patriotic, and respectable of citizenship as the men of the country. Finally, in 1920, the wait was over and the 19th Amendment was ratified. Once the time for voting came around later that year, millions of women across the United States voted in elections for the first time.
Today, women still not have the same or equal rights as men. For example, women are almost half of the workforce, yet women continue to earn considerably less than men. Women, on average, earn less than men in nearly every single occupation for which there is sufficient earnings data for both men and women. Women have made tremendous strides during the last few decades by moving into jobs and occupations previously done almost exclusively by men, yet during the last two decades there has been very little further progress in the gender integration of work. There is still rebellion for the equality of women to men in the workforce.
These instances of rebellion involving women in U.S. history perfectly portrays Oscar Wilde’s claim that disobedience is a valuable human trait and that it promotes crucial social progress. Problems must be brought to one’s attention in order for rebellion to arise. It is through disobedience that progress and the the betterment of society has been made. Disobedience is man’s original virtue.
I think that this was very good because your thoughts were well developed and factual. I wish you would’ve included more examples other than suffrage. For this I think this was roughly a 6 or 7.
Delete“Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is a man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” This is a quote from Irish author Oscar Wilde, who claims that disobedience is a valuable trait and has led to great social breakthroughs in the past. Disobedience has proved profitable for many of those before us and is constantly changing the world for the better. In fact, humans have a natural tendency to rebel, be skeptical, and be disobedient. This natural tendency is engrained in us from a young age and is still present in every person. Since this trait is so prevalent, it is clear it can bring about great results. For example, Gary Vaynerchuk is a Belarusian-American entrepreneur who didn't even know English for the first few years of his life. He grew up going to school in America and was always told he needed to focus on school so he could get accepted into college. Gary trusted his parents and applied himself in school but he wasn't happy or excited about his work. So, Gary began to build a brand around himself. At a young age he began to aspire to be an entrepreneur. He help garage sales by himself, hosted lemonade stands, and flipped items from discount stores. Despite his mother's intent of him staying in school and attending college, Gary decided to pursue his interest in business. Today Gary is a very successful entrepreneur who owns VaynerX and VaynerMedia which are very successful medias in the New York area. None of Gary's current success could've came unless he disobeyed his mother's wishes. Disobedience in a good manner almost always returns a positive result, even if it is just making a problem or view known. Disobedience has led to the success of many people, the advancement of rights for all people, and various other social advances. In the future, this trend of disobedience should be continued as to further the equality of all people and to strive for what people believe.
ReplyDeleteIsaac, I feel that your blog has great potential, however, it seems like there is a (and please forgive me for this, it’s just an observation) lack of effort. I will give you a 5 because there is not much information. If you had more than really one example it could let the reader understand your writing more. What you had written was not bad, it was quite good. I wish you would put more effort into your work because you are a great writer and very intuitive.
DeleteArtifice is the mask that gets put on when someone does not want to reveal their true self; However it is an important part of life. Some well known companies that use artifice as their mask are Apple and Juul. Think of all of the benefits that come from these two companies. Everyday we see some sort of an advertisement for an iPhone, air pods, or juuls. We see them as these amazing, innovative creations because of the way the company is advertising them, not the product itself. By using artifice to their advantage, they have become multimillion dollar companies.
ReplyDeleteApple, a company worth roughly $1 trillion, is most certainly a growing franchise. How can this be? Their advertisements. They lure people in with new, high tech, versatile products without fully revealing the aspects of the product. By manipulating their consumers they continue to expand. Apples newest craze, air pods, have already brought the company approximately $2.2 billion. Consumers saw this product as new and innovative and were immediately drawn to them. However, after purchasing them many customers began to realize they weren’t exactly the hot new product they were hoping for, not to mention the large price tag that comes along with them. Many customers were not expecting how easy it is to lose them but this was not their biggest complaint. They’re not fixable so once they’re broken they’re broken and it’s $159 down the drain. Consumers want to know exactly what they’re buying before they spend a large amount of money on a product. This does not just apply to air pods, either. Apple’s phones themselves have been a common point of complaint lately. They’re constantly needing to be upgraded and as the company advances people are continuing to become more confused. Consumers are beginning to believe that the extra flair is not worth the extra money.
Juul is another company that relies on artifice. They advertise their products as helpful, beneficial, and trendy. However, they never reveal the downsides to their products. Juul claims that their mission is to, “improve the lives of the world's one billion adult smokers.” They have never taken into consideration how many more people (that did not previously have nicotine addictions) are now hooked. This does not just impact the lives of adults, but rather teens.
Artifice does not just affect consumer culture. Presidential elections are heavily influenced by artifice. A presidential candidate doesn’t actually have to be the perfect, trustworthy person they want America to think they are, they just have to act it. By playing the part, they can easily gain voters. By gaining voters, they get put in the White House. Depending on how desperate the candidate it they are willing to do almost anything to get elected and that includes playing the part of a perfect person.
By pretending and ultimately lying, companies and people can achieve what they want. This all happens through artifice. While it is not exactly a good thing, it is necessary for our day to day lives to function as they do. Without artifice we would see everyone for who they truly are. Companies would not be making a million dollars a day and presidential elections would be put so much further under a microscope. Without artifice, so many things would not get accomplished.
Lake, I would give your essay a 5 as I liked the idea of saying apple was a big brand using artifice, but I didn't really like using the products instead of the company. Apple isn't responsible for the hype around their products, the consumers are. Yes they may be high tech but they are bought because they see popular people with them and their friends with them
DeleteI liked how you called out the two companied apple and juul. You did a great job explaining what artifice is and how it exists today. You gave to examples that are very relatable to todays world. Great job! I would give this a 7 or 8.
Delete-Dan
“Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is a man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” This quote claims that only through rebellion and revolting against the system is the only way to grow in reality. I believe that this is correct, and that we must get other of our comfort zone to prosper, and that rules and laws conform to this comfort. Yet anarchy takes this idea to far, and thus destroys the idea Oscar Wilde puts forth.
ReplyDeleteMany others agree with this idea, and are shown many different ways. Twisted Sister made a song called "Were Not Gonna Take It", that is basically saying we're not going to follow rules. A song by the Beastie Boys called "Sabotage" has been widely viewed as a anti-rules songs, and also the Arctic Monkeys song "Riot Van" off there first album is a smooth, yet rebellious song as well. Art is also a large median for people to portray the hatred of rules and regulations. All of these things are very blatantly for rebellion, yet when should we set a line? Should we just got follow societies cliches and guidelines, or stage a coup of the government at this time? Some poeple can see better when to go against the grain than others. To myself, it's a fine line to walk. Don't be normal, don't be cliche, don't follow the pack, go against the grain in this way. Be a different human being than everyone else. Don't be stupid and not follow the rules of your school and rules that are actually there for your well being, as then you will become more of a troublemaker than a person of good nature. Understand where the line lies, and walk the edge so that line. Get out of your own comfort zone, and be you. For example, pretend you are in a box, you have no stimulation, no change of scenery, no anything. Just the brown walls of the box. But you don't know what lies outside of that box. It would be boring, or it could be different and unique. You can open your box, but do you really want to? What would you do? I would step out. It's not a difficult decision for me, but for some it could be very difficult. Be different, rebel against what everyone else does, and you won't regret it.
Anthony, I think your blog is interesting. It seems that you took your ideas of disobedience in a interesting way, getting outside of your comfort zone. My comment is that I personally got lost in your examples. I was confused as to where you were trying to go with them. Also, I find it easier when I am writing and reading to break points up into different paragraphs. That can make it flow better than one or two large paragraphs, and it is easier to follow. I may be wrong, I do not know, but I took this blog assignment as a practice for the AP exam. Writing in first person could get points deducted. I am going to give you a 4. I think you has a good intention, however, it felt a little lost.
Delete“Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and rebellion.” This powerful statement by Irish author Oscar Wilde challenges authority by proclaiming that only by not following the rules can a society improve. Moreover, the rules may be unfair and unjust to peoples of different race, religion, and gender, so the laws enacted by a government may not be equal in the first place. Oscar Wilde’s observation that disobedience is man’s original virtues may seem audacious, however, man has only made progress when they rebel against the norms of society. Mahatma Gandhi, an Indian activist, Martin Luther King Jr., a black civil rights activist, and the entirety of the passengers aboard the Mayflower were rebels in history who disobeyed the rules of government and brought about progress.
ReplyDeleteMohandas Karamchand Gandhi, or more commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was an Indian activist who fought for India’s independence from British rule. His nonviolent civil protests were seen as an act of disobedience to British rule and, as a result, he and hundreds of other Indian activists were beaten and arrested on multiple occasions. However, through years of passive protests and disobedience to Great Britain, Mahatma successfully gave India its independence and inspired many other civil rights activist across the globe.
Martin Luther King Jr. is seen as the face of the black civil rights movement of the United States of America. Although, Rosa Parks, an African American woman, was the spark to the wildfire which was the black civil rights movement. Rosa was supposed to give up her seat on a bus to a Caucasian male. However, she sternly said, “no” to the man and was consequently arrested. This minute act of disobedience to the social norms started an avalanche of nonviolent protests against the racial bias towards white men. Through years of arrests and beatings, African Americans finally received what they deserved, equality.
The English Puritans aboard the Mayflower was the first display of rebellion in the New World. They disobeyed the queen’s rules and escaped from religious persecution by sailing to the Americas. As a result, colonies were established and the United States of America was established after the American Revolution. Without the rebellion of the Pilgrims, the U.S.A would not have been founded and there wouldn’t be a country that has freedom of speech, press, and religion. Only through disobedience can a society make progress.
Oscar Wilde is a very respected Irish poet and playwright whom had his greatest success in the early 1890’s. Throughout this period of time, America was going through many strikes, especially in the workforce. Therefore, creating and continuing strikes and rebellion to even the present day. I do agree with Oscar Wilde when he states “Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” It is in fact, when you are doing the exact opposite of what you should be doing the very best, possible outcomes arise. This is what Oscar Wilde so brilliantly states for readers to ponder on.
ReplyDeleteOne modern day, prominent example is the March For Life that occurs everyday in Washington, D.C. Pro-life advocates flood the streets and protest and fight for the right of unborn babies. These babies have full human rights and do not have a chance. These strikers are working to reverse Roe vs. Wade and eliminate all of the unjust and unfair rules. By standing outside of Planned Parenthood’s, helping undecided mothers, and making sure everyone knows the rights of the unborn children, Pro-life promoters are working to rebel against the laws created and the norms of society.
A very important strike occurred in 1899, in the decade of Oscar Wilde’s statement, the Newsboys’ strike. The Newspaper delivery boys of the streets of New York City created a protest on account of poor child labor. It was a rebel against two of the most powerful businessmen in New York City, Joseph Pulitzer and Willam Randolph Hearst. Most of these boys were poor, orphans, and runaway children, who were found sleeping in the streets. After unfair wage changes, and many horrible conditions the boys decided to stand up and fight for themselves. By doing this, these very young boys with nothing to their name changed so much for the country.
Jackie Robinson is an African American baseball legend. Robinson broke down the race barrier that was very profound in this era. It was the 1946 season that Jackie Robinson was drafted by the Brooklynn Dodgers. He received hate, criticism, and even death threats from fans and nearly all citizens in the country. This did not stop him from endless success and efforts given every time he stepped on the diamond. People could say what they wanted about this man but it was undeniable that he deserved with incredible batting averages, many steals, and being named National League MVP. He created a world of opportunity for African Americans and people of different races to this day. By rebelling and resisting all of the prior rules that occurred in the MLB new standards were created.
Countless protests, strikes, and rebellions have been in motion for hundreds of years now. Every one has had a purpose and changed peoples lives, most likely for the better. Whether it be, right to life, race barriers, or unfair wages. By taking the steps and going against the norms and disobeying what is typically known and abided by, we as a country truly grow stronger everyday. Social progress is achieved through hard work and dedication, not only in my examples but ones seen everyday in the news and ones we may not even get to acknowledge.
I am giving your essay a 6. I liked your examples and thought they were very strong, but I thought your introduction could use a little work. Make sure to have a strong and clear thesis as well as list your main ideas to back it up. I thought it was very well written and enjoyed the read.
DeleteIn the words the of Andie MacDowell, “When you are authentic, you create a certain energy, people want to be around you because you are unique.” MacDowell is trying to express the importance of authenticity in comparison to an act of artiface. Artifice is an extremely fake and deceitful skill which should not be applied to political theater and consumer culture. Rather, truth, honor, and respect for one’s audience should be put into action, as the audience has the right to know what is true. If these aspects are absent, the truth is bound to be exposed such as in cases of scandals, secrets, and the lengths that people and companies will go to in order to seem like everything is okay and appear to be in position of success.
ReplyDeleteIn the case of Andrew Weiner, he was a democratic congressmen from January of 1999 until June of 2011. He won sevens terms and always received at least sixty percent of the vote. He married Huma Abedin, who was a long-time aide to Hillary Clinton, in 2010. However, a year later, Weiner pleaded guilty to sending obscene photographs to a minor through Twitter. This was followed by his resign from congress and a file for a divorce by his wife, Huma. In this case, Andrew Weiner was seen as someone who was well liked. He put on a show. His artifice was created as perfect as he possibly could into what the American people wanted to see. However, once the truth comes out, it is difficult to just ignore it and resume “business as usual.”
Planned Parenthood has been based off of deceptions since its very beginning. The organization was founded by a woman named Margaret Sanger. Many who are pro-choice may praise her for founding Planned Parenthood, but little do they realize why she founded the business. In her speech known as My Way To Peace, she talks about targeting those with mental and physical disabilities saying, “The first step would be to control the intake and output on morons, mental defectives, and epileptics.” Then, she goes on to explain that illiterates, poor people, criminals, and addicts should be sent to concentration camps and could only return to regular society if they had good behavior and were sterilized. Margaret Sanger, a eugenicist, started Planned Parenthood out of evil and it continues to kill more and more innocent and “undesirable” lives everyday.
Citizens and consumers have a right to know the truth. From a consumer culture standpoint in the business world, consumers have the right to know what they are buying and exactly who they are buying from. From a political viewpoint, in order for the public to make an informed decision, they must know the absolute truth about the candidates for which they have the choice to vote between. If they are ill educated, it will be as if their vote is worthless to them, as their freedom to vote is being stripped from them by the fantasy of what their dream candidate is.
Although artifice may seem like a viable and effective option for businesses and political figures, the public has the right to the truth and the utmost respect for their decisions. If deception takes over how things will be done, eventually the world will be running mad with people and organizations that are unfit for the world. In the end, artifice creates a false sense of reality, and a false sense of reality creates chaos.
“Disobedience, in the eyes of anyone who has read history, is a man’s original virtue. It is through disobedience that progress has been made, through disobedience and through rebellion.” is a quote by the famous writer Oscar Wilde. Though disobedience is considered a vice by our society, through listening to the stories of Prometheus, the American Revolution, and the Resistance movement during the Second World War, Wilde’s quote rings true.
ReplyDeleteIn Greek Mythology, humans were given fire by the titan Prometheus. Prometheus was forbidden by Zeus, to give away the sacred fire, to the humans that he so loved and were suffering. He disobeyed, and took the fire, from Hestias hearth, anyways. He was severely punished for it, chained to a mountain and his liver was constantly ripped out by an eagle. However, his disobedience had positive side effects. Humans, now having fire, began to move on from just surviving and began to create civilization. Now, of course, this story is fictional, but it demonstrates that even early on, human understood that disobedience had the ability to move society foreword, even though there might be negative consequences.
The American Revolution is also another example of how disobedience moves and changes society for the better. After colonists in America became upset about their lack of a voice in their government, they rebelled and fought against the ruling. It is true that many men died for this victory, but for their sacrifice, they created a new form of government that became incredibly influential on world history and a new nation was born.
The Resistance Movement in WWII is a perfect example for disobedience. When the Nazis came to power, there was thousands of people willing to disobey the, in order to try and help people to create a more accepting society. They hid “enemies of the state” and attacked the regime in any way possible. Though they were persecuted and sent to concentration camps, they eventually succeed and the oppressive Nazi regime was defeated.
The quote by the famous author Oscar Wilde about the disobedience of man is a true one, after listening to the stories of Prometheus, the Revolution, and the Resistance. All show that disobedience is a virtue, a difficult one, but a virtue all the same.