1-3 Article Anaylsis Paper

My artice was titled The Survival of Biology: ‘‘Lessons’’ on Race. The author was Roger Saul. He wrote about an episode that aired on the Oprah Show in 2006. The topic was race in todays society. The main question is would you change your race, if you could?

An example of a fad is Ebonics. Society isolated this urban language to the Black Community. The reality is that it is more of a socioeconomic communication system. Not a Black thing.  Another example is sagging of pants. Individuals of all cultural do this but once again it is considered a “Black thing”.  When the average person hears cowboy, they imagine white male in a cowboy hat with boots. The reality is clothing is a preference and has nothing to do with skin color.

Racism and categorization by skin color will always be a part of society. An individual can’t judge what someone else is experiencing. They can however, get a glimpse into the daily life to enhance understanding.  This is the opportunity that was given to the families of “Trading Races”. Each person had preconceived notions as to how they should walk, talk, and act when in make-up. This was a result of stereotyping.

 There are always going to be areas and issues that are highlighted through media outlets. This is why experiments like this are so important. All parties involved completed the six week experiment with lessons that were learned. The process was also aired on national television with hopes that the viewers could become more aware. We as individuals need to get to the place where our peers are judged by their individual actions, not the color of their skin.

Bibliography

Saul, R. (2001, December). The Survival of Biology: ‘‘Lessons’’ on Race. The Journal of Popular Culture, 43(6), 1282-1301.

Week 9 Blog ...Americas Got Talent

My journal five entry for popular culture is on the NBC hit show Americas Got Talent. This show is similar to American Idol. The difference is that the competition is open to all talent variations, not just singing. The winner wins one million dollars and a lead show on the Vegas strip.  There are three judges. They are Howie Mendel, Sharron Osborn, and Pierce Morgan. However, the viewers in America vote by telephone and ultimately a winner is chosen. It’s a majority vote rules philosophy.

This is Season six and contestants are solicited all over the United States. The acts auditioned in eight major cities and on You Tube. America only voted for those that are accepted into the top 48. It is at that point when the importance of perfection and playing to the camera are involved. The media often gets looked down upon for violating privacy and ruining lives. We seldom here of the life change events and entertainment that is media driven.

America is built by dreams. I enjoy this show because it gives all individuals from any age, culture, mindset, and socioeconomic status a chance at success. Now, not all individuals are blessed with the actual talent. But it’s up to us as a people to decide. Actually, the non-talent acts are often the most entertaining of all. It’s amazing how many people are willing to put themselves out there just for a minute of television air time.

America’s Got Talent is a great family show. Anyone can become inspired after watching just one episode. It’s great to reach for your dreams and accomplish goals at any age. The chance to win money is just an added perk. I would encourage anyone to get some popcorn and sit down for this hour on entertainment on NBC.