This week in class we saw the renowned movie, Crash.
This was my second time watching this movie, but I was able to learn a lot.
When I first watched this movie with my family, I wasn't focusing on race (and of course I didn't take sociology yet). All I realized was mistreatment and the thrill of the characters' intertwined lives.
While watching this movie for the second time, I was really able to focus on race. The stereotypes jumped out at me more. Also, since I knew what was going to happen, I was able to detect more clues.
I loved this movie because everyone's racial experiences seems so extreme, but it does happen. and sometimes it's even worse. Today we watched an Opera show with the cast sharing their own experiences. Their lives have all been touched because of racism at one point. They stressed that race is a problem we must divide and conquer. That it'll take a while to really eliminate it (if it ever can be eliminated), but it must start with our own mindful actions.
In class we discussed if the ending was appropriate or not. I thought it was very appropriate. The fact that racism is a continuing cycle. That although we realize our mistakes, we may repeat it. Or sometimes it doesn't end up happy;it can result in a death or a murder. I loved how they had a physical crash at the very end of the movie. But they went a step further by showing that people who have been a victim of racism, still become racist. even though they know how it feels to be discriminated or stereotyped. I think that point is very much real. That when someone is getting stereotyped they are hurt and aghast. But, they don't notice it (or don't care) when they do the same to others.
This had me thinking of how mindful I must be. That I shouldn't perpetuate certain stereotypes (even if it's against my own race).
Actually, I have my own "crash"-like moment. Although it's not as severe, it proves how implicit racism is very present. Last year, I went in for grammar help to my english teacher. Now, english has always been my favorite subject and I know I'm good at it. Math has always been my weakest. I was in sophomore accelerated which proved my skill. However, despite me being in a higher level class, my teacher asked me "So when did you come here?" I was born here.
Implicit Racism. It hurt a lot.
It starts with ourselves. We can't expect to change racism when we ourselves aren't mindful and are spreading racism. Be mindful and extra careful.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Racism
This week in class we learned about race.
Race is not biological, but indeed a creation by society to label people.
People's race can be forever changing based on how they act.
But despite how race is not biological, many people believe it is. They think that race cannot change and if you're Asian, you're Asian. African then African.
I think Dave Chappelle portrays this ridiculous concept of race perfectly in a "racial draft". In this episode, he took several races "drafting" people to their race. Tiger Woods now "100% black" and many more. Race isn't a defined line. It's very flexible because the concept of "biological race" doesn't exist. It's all a perception.
We also saw how our society creates stereotypes for races. That asian are smart and slow while African Americans are loud. However although people may think that they aren't a racist, that shows that they arent an explicit racist. There's also an implicit racism. It's a type of racism we're not aware of. Its instilled in our brain that it's acceptable now.
This instilled racism is much more common than an explicit racism. But, if everyone begins to watch what they say, it's possible that in time this racism will not be around. It seems impossible, but we have gotten so far from the 1800s when people thought that African Americans aren't even human. If we all work together to try, we can do it.
Race is not biological, but indeed a creation by society to label people.
People's race can be forever changing based on how they act.
But despite how race is not biological, many people believe it is. They think that race cannot change and if you're Asian, you're Asian. African then African.
I think Dave Chappelle portrays this ridiculous concept of race perfectly in a "racial draft". In this episode, he took several races "drafting" people to their race. Tiger Woods now "100% black" and many more. Race isn't a defined line. It's very flexible because the concept of "biological race" doesn't exist. It's all a perception.
We also saw how our society creates stereotypes for races. That asian are smart and slow while African Americans are loud. However although people may think that they aren't a racist, that shows that they arent an explicit racist. There's also an implicit racism. It's a type of racism we're not aware of. Its instilled in our brain that it's acceptable now.
This instilled racism is much more common than an explicit racism. But, if everyone begins to watch what they say, it's possible that in time this racism will not be around. It seems impossible, but we have gotten so far from the 1800s when people thought that African Americans aren't even human. If we all work together to try, we can do it.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Minimum
This week in class we continued learning about social class and the difficulty of moving into different classes.
And the difficulty did not lie just in the wealth, but also in the social culture.
But this week in class we focused on how unequal our wealth is in this world,
and people who are in low classes, stay in lower class; it's very hard to move up.
We played an unique type of monopoly to better understand this concept.
We had a high class, a upper middle, a lower middle and a low class.
The high class student started out with great wealth, and received more many when passing go.
The low class started out with very vey little and received minimum amount while passing go.
In the end of the game, no one changed classes. Te poor stayed poor while the rich became richer.
We realized how our system makes it almost impossible for a lower class to move up the ladder.
To study this idea even further, we watched an episode of "30 days" where we observed
a man living on minimum wage. We saw that he and his fiance were working multiple jobs just to pay their rent and eat rice and beans every day. They were only able to get furnitue and clothes thanks to the charities around that area.
The people around them were working in the same conditions as them, but many had much more families to support. Watching the couple struggle, but realizing much more families have it harder, made me angry and humble.
Our system obviously doesn't work. Minimum wage isn't helping the poor support themselves. It's not enough. And especially if an emegency occurs and they have to go to the hospital, they can't pay the fees. They don't have money for insurance. They are completly out of luck.
The social class system kind of crushes my hope. Although I am in the middle class, it'll be almost impossible to move up that ladder. It also made me angry that the rich are inherently rich. That although I may work my butt off the rich have an advantage--and that doesn't seem like an equal opportunity. But then again, the poor are at a greater disadvantage than I.
Society is complicated and there's no simple solution to our wealth distribution or social class.
And the difficulty did not lie just in the wealth, but also in the social culture.
But this week in class we focused on how unequal our wealth is in this world,
and people who are in low classes, stay in lower class; it's very hard to move up.
We played an unique type of monopoly to better understand this concept.
We had a high class, a upper middle, a lower middle and a low class.
The high class student started out with great wealth, and received more many when passing go.
The low class started out with very vey little and received minimum amount while passing go.
In the end of the game, no one changed classes. Te poor stayed poor while the rich became richer.
We realized how our system makes it almost impossible for a lower class to move up the ladder.
To study this idea even further, we watched an episode of "30 days" where we observed
a man living on minimum wage. We saw that he and his fiance were working multiple jobs just to pay their rent and eat rice and beans every day. They were only able to get furnitue and clothes thanks to the charities around that area.
The people around them were working in the same conditions as them, but many had much more families to support. Watching the couple struggle, but realizing much more families have it harder, made me angry and humble.
Our system obviously doesn't work. Minimum wage isn't helping the poor support themselves. It's not enough. And especially if an emegency occurs and they have to go to the hospital, they can't pay the fees. They don't have money for insurance. They are completly out of luck.
The social class system kind of crushes my hope. Although I am in the middle class, it'll be almost impossible to move up that ladder. It also made me angry that the rich are inherently rich. That although I may work my butt off the rich have an advantage--and that doesn't seem like an equal opportunity. But then again, the poor are at a greater disadvantage than I.
Society is complicated and there's no simple solution to our wealth distribution or social class.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Perceived
This week in class we saw a video of a man that stayed in prision for a couple of weeks.
Through the video, we were able to see how prisoners were treated and what they did in prison.
I was surprised to find out that they were required to do absolutely nothing-which was the biggest challenge.
The prisoners had to keep themselves entertained to get through the long days, weeks, months, years.
Many prisoners made up their minds to change their lives once they are released.
Sadly, the determined prisoners were unable to reach their goal which leads to another issue.
Should prison be a punishment or a rehabiliation for people? Our country had agreed it should be a rehabiliation but it's obviously not helping most people. People who have been to jail are a lot more likely to go back.
It's sad that our prison system is unhelpful and even unfair. People who are richer are able to avoid going to jail by hiring better lawyers, while the poorer people have no money to get out of jail. Our country should find a better jail system and slowly begin to change.
This week we also watched a movie on social class. We were able to see that social class may not even be about the money. That it's actually every little thing person does, that shows what social class you're in.
For example, what foods you eat show what class youre in. Or how close you stand while you talk. All these little things show.
With the prison and social class, we learned that deviance is perceived. That how grave an act is perceived, and labeled by the community. How rich or poor someone thinksthey are is also perceived. A person may thnk that they are very poor compared to big buisness leaders, but in actuallity may be part of the higher class.
Since last week was Thanksgiving, I was able to think about this topic further. I live in a upper middle class neighborhood and go to a fairly wealthy school. Where everyone has smartphones, and use designer bags as their schoolbags. That spend twenty dollars each day for their lunch, or buy a five dollar latte every morning. Seeing all these people have made me feel a lot less rich. But I've failed to realize that compared to the rest of the country, and compared to rest of the world, i have so much to be thankful for. Maybe I should cut back on that extra coffee and spread my blessings to others.
Through the video, we were able to see how prisoners were treated and what they did in prison.
I was surprised to find out that they were required to do absolutely nothing-which was the biggest challenge.
The prisoners had to keep themselves entertained to get through the long days, weeks, months, years.
Many prisoners made up their minds to change their lives once they are released.
Sadly, the determined prisoners were unable to reach their goal which leads to another issue.
Should prison be a punishment or a rehabiliation for people? Our country had agreed it should be a rehabiliation but it's obviously not helping most people. People who have been to jail are a lot more likely to go back.
It's sad that our prison system is unhelpful and even unfair. People who are richer are able to avoid going to jail by hiring better lawyers, while the poorer people have no money to get out of jail. Our country should find a better jail system and slowly begin to change.
This week we also watched a movie on social class. We were able to see that social class may not even be about the money. That it's actually every little thing person does, that shows what social class you're in.
For example, what foods you eat show what class youre in. Or how close you stand while you talk. All these little things show.
With the prison and social class, we learned that deviance is perceived. That how grave an act is perceived, and labeled by the community. How rich or poor someone thinksthey are is also perceived. A person may thnk that they are very poor compared to big buisness leaders, but in actuallity may be part of the higher class.
Since last week was Thanksgiving, I was able to think about this topic further. I live in a upper middle class neighborhood and go to a fairly wealthy school. Where everyone has smartphones, and use designer bags as their schoolbags. That spend twenty dollars each day for their lunch, or buy a five dollar latte every morning. Seeing all these people have made me feel a lot less rich. But I've failed to realize that compared to the rest of the country, and compared to rest of the world, i have so much to be thankful for. Maybe I should cut back on that extra coffee and spread my blessings to others.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
It's Really Needed
A few Wednesdays ago I went back to the Harvest Food Pantry and Clothes Close in Evanston to volunteer.
I left my house at 4:50ish, but because of the terrible traffic, once again arrived at 6. I was greeted by the same leader, Pete. Sadly, he didn't recognize me, but that's understandable since there are so many changing volunteers every week.
There was an abundance of volunteers that day, so I wasn't needed at a certain station. But because of this abundance I was able to shadow regular volunteers at a couple of different stations. First, I started at the bagging area. Here, I shadowed Ana, a full time nurse who volunteers here every other week. I was told to put one jug of juice, one can of corn, one can of fruit, and one can of sloppy joe meat. I asked her where they get all the food--if the church supplies it. She said it's major brands donating their oversupply of food. For example, whole foods, target and panera are consistent donaters.
Next I followed someone in the line station. These people hold the bags of food for the people. I was amazed at how familiar the line volunteers were with the "customers". They were on a first name basis and treated them with so much respect. "Apple juice or Orange juice" "We have 3 choices of meat today...chicken breasts, hamburger patties, or ribs" It really felt like a personal grocery shopping assistant escorting all these people.
The night was busy, but not as busy as last week. Pete told me that the week before, they reached the highest number of families in one day:200. After there were no more families left, all the volunteers ate some leftover sweets with leftover milk (since these items spoil).
When I came home it was around 9pm. I was exhausted and not in the mood to do homework. But, something one "customer" said to me stuck. She said that volunteers are really needed and all the people who come here know and are grateful to them. Yes, at that time I didn't really feel like I was helping out much. Bagging a couple items, folding a couple clothes doesn't seem like a big deal. But volunteers are really needed. The interesting thing is, many regular volunteers used to be customers. They know what it's like to be in both positions and they know how a little help can go a long way. Because it really doses make a difference, it really is needed.
I left my house at 4:50ish, but because of the terrible traffic, once again arrived at 6. I was greeted by the same leader, Pete. Sadly, he didn't recognize me, but that's understandable since there are so many changing volunteers every week.
There was an abundance of volunteers that day, so I wasn't needed at a certain station. But because of this abundance I was able to shadow regular volunteers at a couple of different stations. First, I started at the bagging area. Here, I shadowed Ana, a full time nurse who volunteers here every other week. I was told to put one jug of juice, one can of corn, one can of fruit, and one can of sloppy joe meat. I asked her where they get all the food--if the church supplies it. She said it's major brands donating their oversupply of food. For example, whole foods, target and panera are consistent donaters.
Next I followed someone in the line station. These people hold the bags of food for the people. I was amazed at how familiar the line volunteers were with the "customers". They were on a first name basis and treated them with so much respect. "Apple juice or Orange juice" "We have 3 choices of meat today...chicken breasts, hamburger patties, or ribs" It really felt like a personal grocery shopping assistant escorting all these people.
The night was busy, but not as busy as last week. Pete told me that the week before, they reached the highest number of families in one day:200. After there were no more families left, all the volunteers ate some leftover sweets with leftover milk (since these items spoil).
When I came home it was around 9pm. I was exhausted and not in the mood to do homework. But, something one "customer" said to me stuck. She said that volunteers are really needed and all the people who come here know and are grateful to them. Yes, at that time I didn't really feel like I was helping out much. Bagging a couple items, folding a couple clothes doesn't seem like a big deal. But volunteers are really needed. The interesting thing is, many regular volunteers used to be customers. They know what it's like to be in both positions and they know how a little help can go a long way. Because it really doses make a difference, it really is needed.
Monday, November 14, 2011
My Princess Boy
My Princess Boy.
My Princess Boy is a picture book about a young boy who likes to dress up like princesses and likes the color pink. However, in the book he is constantly laughed at for being himself.
I was reading his book to my second grade student today. The moment the plot developed, I couldn't help but connect this little boy to the sociology lesson we've been taught the past week. This boy was being mocked for being too 'girly'. Not only that, the parents were also laughed at by the society for letting and even encouraging their son to be "girly". Even more interestingly, I asked my tutor student what she thought of this boy. She simply answered "I don't like it".
This enforced the lesson we've been learning in sociology. From a young age boys are taught to be "manly". That they should not only participate in sports, but excel in that direction. They should hide their emotions-especially emotions of sadness. Yet, emotions like anger are acceptable to express-and even enouraged to do so.
The sociological influence these young boys receive have been seen to have a direct influence upon violence. Most school shootings the past years have been done by white, middle class, intelligent males that were pressured and made fun of their "girliness" or "gaybaiting".
Hearing such a strong dislike for that little princess boy from my student was a major wake up call. She's only six years old and she "doesn't like" this princess boy. This intolerance of princess boys will stay with them while growing up, and only make them less understanding of people like that.
My Princess Boy is a picture book about a young boy who likes to dress up like princesses and likes the color pink. However, in the book he is constantly laughed at for being himself.
I was reading his book to my second grade student today. The moment the plot developed, I couldn't help but connect this little boy to the sociology lesson we've been taught the past week. This boy was being mocked for being too 'girly'. Not only that, the parents were also laughed at by the society for letting and even encouraging their son to be "girly". Even more interestingly, I asked my tutor student what she thought of this boy. She simply answered "I don't like it".
This enforced the lesson we've been learning in sociology. From a young age boys are taught to be "manly". That they should not only participate in sports, but excel in that direction. They should hide their emotions-especially emotions of sadness. Yet, emotions like anger are acceptable to express-and even enouraged to do so.
The sociological influence these young boys receive have been seen to have a direct influence upon violence. Most school shootings the past years have been done by white, middle class, intelligent males that were pressured and made fun of their "girliness" or "gaybaiting".
Hearing such a strong dislike for that little princess boy from my student was a major wake up call. She's only six years old and she "doesn't like" this princess boy. This intolerance of princess boys will stay with them while growing up, and only make them less understanding of people like that.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Inner Beauty
This week we learned about sociological influences on gender roles.
We watched a documentary called "Killing Us Softly 4" which clearly showed us the influences of media on women roles. There were mulitple examples of how women's bodies are materialized or how some pictures imply a condescending image of women. Along with these offending pictures, there are myriad of pictures that suggest to girls of what beauty is.
But still, so many girls, teens, and women think that beauty can be defined. And sometimes, nature isn't fair-so the logical thing to do is change themselves in an unnatural way. With needles and cutting and sewing and ripping. It has been estimated that 420000 Americans of all ages have done plastic surgery in the year of 2009. However, that barely compares with the whopping number 740000 people doing plastic surgery in South Korea. And these numbers are just in one year.
In a couple more years how many more people will do plastic surgery? It's so disturbing and more sad that so many people feel like they have to physically change how they look in order to feel beautiful. Have any of these people ever thought of having inner beauty instead?
We all need to think about how we sociologically influence people around us. Small comments such as "I wish I was skinny as her" or "She's ugly" contributes to the problem. If we start with ourselves and change our view of "beautiful" we can start teaching the social world what beautiful really is.
We watched a documentary called "Killing Us Softly 4" which clearly showed us the influences of media on women roles. There were mulitple examples of how women's bodies are materialized or how some pictures imply a condescending image of women. Along with these offending pictures, there are myriad of pictures that suggest to girls of what beauty is.
Beauty is indescribable. It's hard to define because of the vagueness along with the limitless possibilities. Perception of beauty is up to the viewer. However, at such a young age girls have been shown that beauty is big eyes, tiny waist, stick-like legs, glamorous body, v-neck, and flawless skin. This kind of beauty is unrealistic as well as disturbing.
I know that in South Korea, the double eyelid surgery is popular-obviously because Asians have chinky, small eyes. I've always been so against this whole plastic surgery phase. My sisters and I used to joke around that every girl in South Korea looks the same because they all have the same perfect nose and same big eyes and the same shaved neckline. This joke is becoming a scary reality.
In a couple more years how many more people will do plastic surgery? It's so disturbing and more sad that so many people feel like they have to physically change how they look in order to feel beautiful. Have any of these people ever thought of having inner beauty instead?
I guess the problem is that we have a physical beauty set. And although our world supports "inner beauty", Miss.Universe always has a gorgeous body, and a beautiful face. We say we teach children that "it's the inside that counts" but our real world doesn't prove that.
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| A plastic surgery ad in Korea (for double eyelid surgery) |
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| A plastic surgery ad in Korea (on nose and neckline) |
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Nurture
This week in class we observed what happens to children who were neglected a as a child. One child we observed was Genie, who was severely neglected as a child. When we was rescued, she did not know how to speak, and she stumbled as she walked. Similarly neglected was Dani. When she was found, her mattress was molded and her room infested with mice and insects. Dani was luckily adopted into a loving family, but still cannot speak very well.
Through these children we were able to understand the difference between nature and nurture. Both Genie and Dani had characteristics of animals. They couldn't feel hot and cold or pain. They over ate and didn't know how to control themselves. Their mental age was that of an infant. These children were failed to be nurtured. They were not held and loved-essentials for growth of children.
We also studied an experiment where some orphans were placed in a home for the mentally disabled. The patients took care of a child. On the other hand, the experiment observed orphans left in the orphanages who received much less attention as the other group of children. It was seen that children who were nurtured actually rose in IQ and eventually graduated college, and now married. While children who lacked the nurture, did not excel.
Through these lessons we realized that people are born with nature. The core of human life and personality. However, for growth and development, nurture is essential.
From these lessons I realized that there are so many factors that affect me-whether I realize it or not. My parent's kind of nurture affects me as a person. Whether they use a stick method or a carrot method, it shapes who I am. Similarly, school affects me. Coming from a higher middle class school, I am pressured into good grades and going to college. It already sets me into a mindset of being a "good student". All these "agents of socialization" affect me and my view of certain subjects.
Through these children we were able to understand the difference between nature and nurture. Both Genie and Dani had characteristics of animals. They couldn't feel hot and cold or pain. They over ate and didn't know how to control themselves. Their mental age was that of an infant. These children were failed to be nurtured. They were not held and loved-essentials for growth of children.
We also studied an experiment where some orphans were placed in a home for the mentally disabled. The patients took care of a child. On the other hand, the experiment observed orphans left in the orphanages who received much less attention as the other group of children. It was seen that children who were nurtured actually rose in IQ and eventually graduated college, and now married. While children who lacked the nurture, did not excel.
Through these lessons we realized that people are born with nature. The core of human life and personality. However, for growth and development, nurture is essential.
From these lessons I realized that there are so many factors that affect me-whether I realize it or not. My parent's kind of nurture affects me as a person. Whether they use a stick method or a carrot method, it shapes who I am. Similarly, school affects me. Coming from a higher middle class school, I am pressured into good grades and going to college. It already sets me into a mindset of being a "good student". All these "agents of socialization" affect me and my view of certain subjects.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
When Happiness is Not Enough
This week in class we learned about our culture and our culture's view on happiness.
We continued to review Americans common virtues but we discovered that happiness is not one of them.
The end of last week, and the beginning of this week we watched "Tuesdays with Morrie". The movie was about a sociology professor named Morrie who was diagnosed with a fatal disease. We followed Morrie through the last few months of his life, and learned from him our culture's flaws. Through Morrie we were able to realize shame in certain things that our culture instills upon us. For example, our culture is ashamed of relying on others while praising independence. Furthermore, we are always on the run. We truly believe that "time is money".
The lessons we learned from Morrie leawayed us to the topic of happiness. What is happiness? How do we get happiness? Most importantly, how do we keep happiness.
Culture was a key to happiness. What kind of culture we live in directly affects our outlook on life, thus affecting our happiness.
In the book "Thrive", there was one advice that really spoke to me. It was an idea of a "giving account". An account you deposit money in the beginning of the year, and at the end of the year you donate it to any charity that you wish. However, during the year if you're met with life's injustices such as a parking ticket, you can pay it off we your giving account. I thought this was a clever way of giving. People who claim they are short on money usually do not realize that there are more unfortunate people. Just donating a dollar a day to the account can amount to a huge amount of money.
Americans are always so focused on money and believe we can buy happiness. We're constantly working, constantly on the move-and too many people sacrifice their family for work. As people, and as Americans we must realize that it takes more than money and personal pleasures to achieve happiness. We claim we just want to be happy, but our direct association with happiness and wealth has caused happiness levels to plummet in our country. How do we change our country's happiness levels when we think happiness is not enough.
We continued to review Americans common virtues but we discovered that happiness is not one of them.
The end of last week, and the beginning of this week we watched "Tuesdays with Morrie". The movie was about a sociology professor named Morrie who was diagnosed with a fatal disease. We followed Morrie through the last few months of his life, and learned from him our culture's flaws. Through Morrie we were able to realize shame in certain things that our culture instills upon us. For example, our culture is ashamed of relying on others while praising independence. Furthermore, we are always on the run. We truly believe that "time is money".
The lessons we learned from Morrie leawayed us to the topic of happiness. What is happiness? How do we get happiness? Most importantly, how do we keep happiness.
Culture was a key to happiness. What kind of culture we live in directly affects our outlook on life, thus affecting our happiness.
In the book "Thrive", there was one advice that really spoke to me. It was an idea of a "giving account". An account you deposit money in the beginning of the year, and at the end of the year you donate it to any charity that you wish. However, during the year if you're met with life's injustices such as a parking ticket, you can pay it off we your giving account. I thought this was a clever way of giving. People who claim they are short on money usually do not realize that there are more unfortunate people. Just donating a dollar a day to the account can amount to a huge amount of money.
Americans are always so focused on money and believe we can buy happiness. We're constantly working, constantly on the move-and too many people sacrifice their family for work. As people, and as Americans we must realize that it takes more than money and personal pleasures to achieve happiness. We claim we just want to be happy, but our direct association with happiness and wealth has caused happiness levels to plummet in our country. How do we change our country's happiness levels when we think happiness is not enough.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Melting Pot?
This week in class we read an article about a German journalist's first visit to America.
He delineated the differences between globalized Germany and America.
For example, much of our food in grocery stores are already made or cut while in Germany
most food are natural.
America has always been known to be a melting pot.
Most likely because of the variety of culture that America contains.
However, in class this week I learned that I relate more with American values.
The idea of equality struck me the hardest. Americans value equality in just about everything we do.
In Asian countries, it's common to look up to people who are older than you. We even have a different way of addressing girls and guys that are older than us--it's considered rude to address them by their name, just because they're older. This also goes with the idea of informality. In America, it is normal to see children address their parents, or their friends' parents by first name. However, in most Asian countries it is extremly rude to do that. In Korea, we have a formal way of speaking to adults. Although our school and my church is filled with FOBS (fresh off the boat) I never find myself completly following that "rule". As an American, I find it unfair to call someone in a respective matter just because of their age or occupation. Thus, I call people however I want to til they earn my respect. (:
He delineated the differences between globalized Germany and America.
For example, much of our food in grocery stores are already made or cut while in Germany
most food are natural.
America has always been known to be a melting pot.
Most likely because of the variety of culture that America contains.
I've always thought that I contribute to this melting pot.
As an Asian, I always felt different. Although I never lived in Korea, I always introduced myself as a Korean.However, in class this week I learned that I relate more with American values.
The idea of equality struck me the hardest. Americans value equality in just about everything we do.
In Asian countries, it's common to look up to people who are older than you. We even have a different way of addressing girls and guys that are older than us--it's considered rude to address them by their name, just because they're older. This also goes with the idea of informality. In America, it is normal to see children address their parents, or their friends' parents by first name. However, in most Asian countries it is extremly rude to do that. In Korea, we have a formal way of speaking to adults. Saturday, October 8, 2011
America vs. Austrailia
This week is sociology, we learned about culture differences.
We compared different cultures to see what differences there are.
We discovered that many differences are very subtle, or some may be a big deal.
Then, we continued to learn about subcultures, and what traits makes a group a subculture.
Material culture, Mores, Folkways, Taboos, Language-- are just a few aspects that we examined.
As a result of this unit, I wanted to compare two cultures that are relatively similar.
I chose to compare America vs. Austrailian culture. We have obvious similarities such as language,
along with general economic status.
However, I was surprised to discover many language differences there are between these two seemingly same cultures.
For example,
Iced Coffee in America is coffee with ice. (sometimes milk may be added)
Iced Coffee in Austrailia is milky coffee with whipped cream and ice cream on top. It's known to be more of a dessert than a beverage.
Thong in America is most commonly used to describe a type of womens underwear.
Thong in Austrailia is America's equivalent of a flip flop.
Rooting in America is used to cheer someone on.
Root in Austrailia means to have sex.
We compared different cultures to see what differences there are.
We discovered that many differences are very subtle, or some may be a big deal.
Then, we continued to learn about subcultures, and what traits makes a group a subculture.
Material culture, Mores, Folkways, Taboos, Language-- are just a few aspects that we examined.
As a result of this unit, I wanted to compare two cultures that are relatively similar.
I chose to compare America vs. Austrailian culture. We have obvious similarities such as language,
along with general economic status.
However, I was surprised to discover many language differences there are between these two seemingly same cultures.
For example,
Iced Coffee in America is coffee with ice. (sometimes milk may be added)
Iced Coffee in Austrailia is milky coffee with whipped cream and ice cream on top. It's known to be more of a dessert than a beverage.
Thong in America is most commonly used to describe a type of womens underwear.
Thong in Austrailia is America's equivalent of a flip flop.
Rooting in America is used to cheer someone on.
Root in Austrailia means to have sex.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Blessing Experience
This past Wednesday I went to Harvest Vineyard Church in Evanston to volunteer. Every Wednesday this church has a food drive along with a clothes drive. People are allowed to come and have 2 bags of food per family along with 5 items of clothing or other items (such as books or baby material).Truthfully, I was very nervous before going. I wasn't sure what to expect. On top of that, I was late. I had to stay at school until 5 and go all the way to Evanston. I was suppose to get there before 6, but got there a little past 6. Yet, when I went in, I was greeted with friendliness. A man named David showed me around. They were all surprised that I came all the way from Vernon Hills to volunteer, and thanked me many times. I didn't help out at the food drive, but was placed at the clothes drive. My job was to hand out bags to anyone who needed it and just talk with the people who may need my help.
When people received their food and began coming to the clothes section, I was really nervous. Also, I was one of the few that were new. Everyone else knew eachother or worked together before. I was afraid that I'll offer a bag to a volunteer-and i did at times. But everyone was understanding and no one was offended. I was taught to treat everyone there with respect, and at times I forgot if I was volunteering at a clothes drive or actually working at a clothes store.I cry very easily.
And as soon as I saw the children tears started rolling out.
They were so thankful about everything. I would read one of the books on the table and they would giggle with delight. I'll offer them a piece of chocolate and they would thank me repeatedly. It made me realize everything that I take for granted, and how I'm rarely thankful for it. Not only am I not thankful, but I expect more. More clothes, more eating out, more movies. I'm always asking for more, while these kids only want their necessities. 
While going home so many things were going through my head. The experience was blessing yet fun. The experience made me feel like I was making a difference, even in the smallest way possible. I'm coming back in a couple weeks, and I'm excited. I know that the next experience will provide me with unexpected surprises and blessings.Thursday, September 29, 2011
No Right or Wrong Way
We started off this week in class by playing a card game. We were given a set of rules and played within a group of 4 or 5 people. The hardest rule of all was that we were not allowed to talk-at all. We were having so much fun and becoming so competitive that we almost forgot that our teacher has a lesson planned for us-almost.
As the winners and losers rotated groups and a new game was started. As soon as it began, something was wrong. There were disputes over who was the winner, however, we weren't allowed to talk so we only made some helpless gestures.
The game was stopped and our teacher told us that he gave us different rules.
This was the intro to our cultural unit.
Each different rule represented a different culture. We were all taught different rules, just like how we were all taught different lifestyles. None of us were necessarily wrong or right. Just different.
As the week progressed we learned examples of cultural differences. For example, the toilet is different for every culture. The Japaneese value sanitation, therefore their toilet requires no contact. Also, different hand gestures mean different things. An "ok" symbol in America may be a very offensive symbol in a different country.
As the winners and losers rotated groups and a new game was started. As soon as it began, something was wrong. There were disputes over who was the winner, however, we weren't allowed to talk so we only made some helpless gestures.
The game was stopped and our teacher told us that he gave us different rules.
This was the intro to our cultural unit.
Each different rule represented a different culture. We were all taught different rules, just like how we were all taught different lifestyles. None of us were necessarily wrong or right. Just different.
As the week progressed we learned examples of cultural differences. For example, the toilet is different for every culture. The Japaneese value sanitation, therefore their toilet requires no contact. Also, different hand gestures mean different things. An "ok" symbol in America may be a very offensive symbol in a different country.We learned that we must be culturally relative of other cultures while living. We need to set aside our ethnocentric minds and be more understanding of other cultures. What we might perceive as bad might be totally acceptable in a different country. For example, in Korea many streets are narrow, therefore people naturally bump into each other while walking. It has become so common that people don't apologize-just assume that it was an accident. However, in America it is almost an unspoken rule that you must apologize to someone you bump into. Many people in America have misunderstood that Koreans are rude since they bump into people without apologizing. But in reality, they have failed to be culturally relative.
When it comes down to culture there is no right or wrong way. We just all have to be more understanding.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Movie Watching, Never the Same Again.
This week in class we watched a movie based on a true story called the "Bronx Tale".
It was a story of a boy who grew up in an Italian neighborhood in a time where racism was still high.
Ever since he witnessed a murder, his life was never again the same.
Throughout the movie we can see the idea of sociological imagination.
There are numerous groups all affecting the main character "C", and his actions.
One group was his mother and father. They emphasized that the strongest man is the working man, not a man who kills by simplyl pulling a trigger. They both encourage him to work for a living instead of earning "dirty money". Another group that influences C is the neighborhood mob. C befriends the mob's leader and soon becomes part of the group. The mob's leisure time is greatly spent by gambling and playing dice, and are pretty violent. The last major group that adds to C's sociological inmagination are his friends. They are very racist and violent. Many times they act without thinking of the serious consequences to follow. All these groups affect C, even though he doesn't try to be like a certain group. For example, when C was having an argument with an African American he became so angered that he uses the word "nigger". Although he usually doesn't use such an offending term, his anger brought out his unconsciousness and he used a word he didn't mean. The racist atmosphere C is part of daily has made him become like them despite his efforts to be different.
In the end of the movie, C becomes sociologically mindful. He realizes how his actions can affect others and their lives. Due to this realization C begins to live his life with more meaning, and more thoughtfully. The main character continues to pursue his dreams and eventually makes it to Hollywood.
This movie reminded me of a Korean movie I saw once. Throughout the movie there was a boy who hated his father. He thought his father was selfish and cruel and unreasonable. The boy eventually grows up and starts a family of his own. Through conflicts with his own family, the boy realizes how he is very similar to his own father. The boy was sociologically influenced by his father even though he didn't want to be. After the boy realizes this, he becomes sociologically mindful of his actions and tries to become a new person, far from alike with his own father.
After watching this movie and having our teacher point out how characters are sociologically influenced, I don't think I can watch movies without thinking of how characters are influenced.
Movie watching will never be the same again.
It was a story of a boy who grew up in an Italian neighborhood in a time where racism was still high.
Ever since he witnessed a murder, his life was never again the same.
Throughout the movie we can see the idea of sociological imagination.
There are numerous groups all affecting the main character "C", and his actions.
One group was his mother and father. They emphasized that the strongest man is the working man, not a man who kills by simplyl pulling a trigger. They both encourage him to work for a living instead of earning "dirty money". Another group that influences C is the neighborhood mob. C befriends the mob's leader and soon becomes part of the group. The mob's leisure time is greatly spent by gambling and playing dice, and are pretty violent. The last major group that adds to C's sociological inmagination are his friends. They are very racist and violent. Many times they act without thinking of the serious consequences to follow. All these groups affect C, even though he doesn't try to be like a certain group. For example, when C was having an argument with an African American he became so angered that he uses the word "nigger". Although he usually doesn't use such an offending term, his anger brought out his unconsciousness and he used a word he didn't mean. The racist atmosphere C is part of daily has made him become like them despite his efforts to be different.
In the end of the movie, C becomes sociologically mindful. He realizes how his actions can affect others and their lives. Due to this realization C begins to live his life with more meaning, and more thoughtfully. The main character continues to pursue his dreams and eventually makes it to Hollywood.
This movie reminded me of a Korean movie I saw once. Throughout the movie there was a boy who hated his father. He thought his father was selfish and cruel and unreasonable. The boy eventually grows up and starts a family of his own. Through conflicts with his own family, the boy realizes how he is very similar to his own father. The boy was sociologically influenced by his father even though he didn't want to be. After the boy realizes this, he becomes sociologically mindful of his actions and tries to become a new person, far from alike with his own father.
After watching this movie and having our teacher point out how characters are sociologically influenced, I don't think I can watch movies without thinking of how characters are influenced.
Movie watching will never be the same again.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Stereotypes
We started the week off by reading an interesting story about a sociologist studying poor,young African Americans in Chicago. Originally, the sociologist was going to conduct surveys on how it feels to be "black and poor". But during the process, he came to realize that conducting surveys won't be as effective as a qualitative data-which is data gathered from observing. Through this sociologist we learned that a research doesn't have to be conducted by surveys, but can also be a first person observation we analyze.
The second day we made identity molecules of ourselves. We started with just our name, but then connected it to certain groups we assosciate with. As we create more bubbles, and more gruops that we belong to, we started to realize how all these groups affect us and make us who we are. Then, we listed our statuses in each of the groups. For example, one of my groups were family. Inside my family, I listed my statuses as a daugther and a sister. When we finished listing our groups and stasuses, we talked about role conflict. Role conflict is when we feel obligated to do a certain thing in one group, but it directly conflicts with a role in another group.
The most valuable lesson I learned this week was our lesson on stereotypes. The scariest part of stereotyping, is that many times we unconsciously do it. If a guy dresses nice, we automatically think he's homosexual. If there's an African American we assume that he or she is not as smart, or rich.
We saw two videos in class: one about the angry eye experiment, and the other about a violinist.
The footage of the violionst clearly showed our problem of stereotyping. The violinist was playing at a station with a shirt and pants. He had his violin case open, and added some change to it. Just the night before he sold out a big theater. However, throughout the hours that he played, everyone just assumed he was another homeless, poor, man playing for cash. Very few people stopped to see and appreciate the expensive, exquisit violin playing, and instead just walked past. Due to the fact that he seemed like a homeless man, people didnt appreciate his playing as much.
This made me reflect on the unconscious stereotyping that I do everyday. The violin footage really stung, because if I was in that station I probably would've acted like the majority of the people. Recently at our school, there was an assembly with speakers from different support groups that we have. One of the support groups was the minority group. An African American girl explained all the subtle differences in treatments she receives because she's Black. For example, if a white student is goofing off during class people just think he's funny. But if a Black student does the same thing, people think that it's because he's stupid or doesn't take school seriously. These subtle ways that we have trained ourself to think are stereotypes. I want to become more mindful of the things I think or say about others based on stereotypes.
The second day we made identity molecules of ourselves. We started with just our name, but then connected it to certain groups we assosciate with. As we create more bubbles, and more gruops that we belong to, we started to realize how all these groups affect us and make us who we are. Then, we listed our statuses in each of the groups. For example, one of my groups were family. Inside my family, I listed my statuses as a daugther and a sister. When we finished listing our groups and stasuses, we talked about role conflict. Role conflict is when we feel obligated to do a certain thing in one group, but it directly conflicts with a role in another group.
The most valuable lesson I learned this week was our lesson on stereotypes. The scariest part of stereotyping, is that many times we unconsciously do it. If a guy dresses nice, we automatically think he's homosexual. If there's an African American we assume that he or she is not as smart, or rich.
We saw two videos in class: one about the angry eye experiment, and the other about a violinist.
The footage of the violionst clearly showed our problem of stereotyping. The violinist was playing at a station with a shirt and pants. He had his violin case open, and added some change to it. Just the night before he sold out a big theater. However, throughout the hours that he played, everyone just assumed he was another homeless, poor, man playing for cash. Very few people stopped to see and appreciate the expensive, exquisit violin playing, and instead just walked past. Due to the fact that he seemed like a homeless man, people didnt appreciate his playing as much.
This made me reflect on the unconscious stereotyping that I do everyday. The violin footage really stung, because if I was in that station I probably would've acted like the majority of the people. Recently at our school, there was an assembly with speakers from different support groups that we have. One of the support groups was the minority group. An African American girl explained all the subtle differences in treatments she receives because she's Black. For example, if a white student is goofing off during class people just think he's funny. But if a Black student does the same thing, people think that it's because he's stupid or doesn't take school seriously. These subtle ways that we have trained ourself to think are stereotypes. I want to become more mindful of the things I think or say about others based on stereotypes.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Because Society tells us so.
We started out this week by learning about three very important figures in Sociology: Emile Durkheim, Karl Marx, and Max Weber.
We used their fundamental ideas of Sociology (large scale patterns, patterns of power, and small group interaction) to analyze an episode of a T.V show called "Freaks and Geeks". Through the episode, we were able to observe how groups in the main character (Lindsay) shaped her life. For example, her family had their own values, and encouraged her to do well in school while also encouarging a social life by forcing her to go to the Homecoming Dance. On the other hand, the "freak" group tried to shape her by convincing her to skip school and smoke. We learned that her family is the group that has greater power in Lindsay's life because they provide for all her needs such as shelter, food, and clothing.
Also this week we learned about social construction of reality which is when society creats our feelings and experiences. We were given an example by comparing what the difference between "spit" and "saliva" are. Saliva is something in our body that helps us digest and even cleanse our throats. Spit is something sticky and gross that come out of people's mouth. In reality, they're the same thing. However, society has made it that spit is something gross while saliva is a biological term.
One example of social construction of reality is Americans' diet compared to other countries. Our American society has made it clear that we should not consume "man's best friend". However, its natural and common in certain Asian countries to eat dog for dinner. Many parts of China eat insects, and insects are well known for the protein that it provides. But in the U.S eating insects is a courageous act, or an act to be frowned upon. In these ways we learn that our society has views on what's "right" or "wrong". What's "good" or what's "gross". Different societies have different opinions on the same matter and have set a standard for the whole society that most people are expected to follow.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Changing the World one Smile at a Time (:
This week in class we started to learn about sociological imagination. Sociological imagination is the idea that all these different groups and thoughts are affecting us as an individual. Things beyond our control is included in this sociological imagination and it makes up who we are and how we act. We were able to get deeper into this idea by reading an exerpt about the people of Roseto. This small, isolated, Italian town had an extremely low death rate. When medical researchers went to see why, they discovered that their society was causing a long life. The family-like society where everyone cares for each other, allowed the people in Roseto to live a happy, long life. This also showed that we are affected by sociology and we might not even know it.
The next few days in class, we started to discuss what sociological mindfulness is. Sociological mindfulness is being aware about how we affect others. It's knowing that we are also one of the driving forces that affects others sociological imagination.
The idea of sociological mindfulness has really affected me this past week. It made me wonder whether my small, inconsiderate actions were hurting others. A small action such as laughing when someone is getting bullied can really hurt others. But it also made me think about if my one smile can make another person happy. This can lead to a chain reaction of smiles, and maybe a happier community. It seems so unlikely that a small, effortless action from a small, regular person can change the world.
Therefore, I'm really looking forward to our service project. I've done some minor community services, but I don't think I've ever went out of my comfort zone. I hope through this project I'm able to learn more about my society and the impact that I can make.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Silence not always bad
Ever since we were old enough to go to school, we were trained that silence is golden.
Our teachers would tell us that if her bunny fingers are up, it means to be quiet.
If our teacher claps three times we shall all magically be silent.
When the bell rings, signaling the beginning of class, everyone becomes quiet and the teacher begins to talk.
That is what has been expected of us for a very long time.So when the bell rings, signaling the beginning of class, everyone becomes quiet and the teacher doesn't say anything... students are baffled. We've never been in this situation. The silence becomes awkward since no one knows what to do.
The situation reminded me of a typical elevator ride. A group of people in a closed space, but an enviornment which they think they're not allowed to talk.
Silence is indeed awkward-to those who think that it is awkward. If we think about it... when we take a test in school, silence is required. Does anyone think that it's awkward that it's silent? No. Because we were trained to be silent while taking tests. This proves that silence is not always awkward.
I do not think that silence has affected our ability to be listeners. When we ask questions to fill the silence...such as "How's your day?" or "What's your name?" we still learn something about the people around us. I believe that silence helps us be more social with others. The thing that actually makes us become bad listeners is not silence, but insincerity.
I learned that we have been trained to think sociologically. Although I don't know enough about sociology, I can think of a few everyday examples. As i mentioned earlier, the elevator and how usually no one talks.
Who am I?
Who am I?
I am Julia.
The question seems so simple yet so complex.
Age, occupation, race and religion doesn't define a person.
I'm 16, a high school student, Korean, and a Christian.
I could tell you these things, but you still don't know anything about me.
I have a strong moral compass. I rather do what's right than go with the crowd.
I believe in respect-but only for those who deserve it.
I'm so stubborn but I'm a really good listener.
I make lots of friends, but along with it many enemies.
I'm quiet, but at the same time brutally honest.
I could tell you these things, but now these are the only things you know about me.
I don't think I can define to you who I am by writing about myself.
I don't think a person can know who I am by reading this post.
In my opinion, people are defined by their actions-not by who they say they are.
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