Wired: Beers in Baghdad: Remembering the World's Most Dangerous Bar

                Know for its more unusual articles, Wired Magazine recently published an article about how a business managed to thrive in Baghdad for about a year illegally. In “Beers in Baghdad: Remembering the World’s Most Dangerous Bar”, journalist Spencer Ackerman takes a look into how two men were able to create a surprisingly successful bar in a country predominantly against alcohol consumption.

For Americans, many are glad that the struggles of Americans in Iraq have for the most part concluded with the final withdrawal of soldiers. During the tumultuous times in this Iraqi war, particularly during the violent years from 2006-2007, it seems only natural that soldiers would need a way to blow off steam: to have a drink. However, General Order #1 forbids US soldiers from alcohol consumption. Despite this, British former paratrooper James and Baghdad local Ajax created an illegal and thus secret bar in the Baghdad “Green Zone”; this “Baghdad Country Club” thus became the place of relaxation for mostly UN members and sometimes mercenaries. This was not only difficult because they were defying the national laws but also doubly challenging because they were in the demilitarized Green Zone, where the US Military held control. Eventually, the duo had to disband because IZ (international zone) police were constantly barging into the bar with full military gear, checking the credentials of each individual who was there.

Ackerman makes a strong play to humor, writing this article out in the form of a humorous interview and writing out several sarcastic comments. This was written in a spatial context, in that he is referencing an event in the past, and is written for readers of Wired. Throughout the interview/article, Ackerman allows specific use of narration to tell the story, as he has the interviewee “Bearman” speak about his experiences with Baghdad Country Club. Rather than perhaps dully reporting the information in an article, Ackerman writes out the words of the interview to make it not only more engaging but also to add a sense of realism to the piece. 

http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/12/baghdad-bar/

Sports Illustrated: NFL expected to discuss helmet hits

                One might imagine that in a game of football, it is a no-hands-barred where players fling their entire bodies in attempts to stop quarterbacks or running backs in their tracks. While certainly hits are still an integral part of the game, there have been regulations and additional discussions as to the manner of the hits. “NFL Expected to Discuss Helmet Hits”, an article from Sports Illustrated, takes a holistic examination at what is going on currently and what regulations may be passed in the near future regarding the dangerous practice of “launching”.

NFL officials are drawing the line when it comes to a form of hitting in football known as launching, in which a player leaps with both feet and attacks a player onto his helmet. Currently, flagrant helmet hits result in a 15 yard penalty for the instigator. The first implementation of this program came about with Steelers’ James Harrison’s hit on Browns quarterback Colt McCoy. As a result, Harrison was suspended for a week.

Officials are noting progress in terms of less risky hits, as more and more players are starting to hit with their shoulders and not leading into helmets or heads. Atlanta Falcons President Rich McKay, who is also the co-chairman of NFL’s competition committee, notes that this regulation and stop on helmet hitting would also protect those instigating as well. "When we are trying to deal with an issue like the launch, we are trying to protect the runner and the hitter," he said. "Some hits, a defensive player is leading with his head and not using his arms and really is exposing himself to injury as a flagrant foul is committed."

As a more varied source of information for this Article of the Week, there was actually a rhetorical style and arrangement very similar to the ones found in more “professional” sources, such as the New York Times and TIME Magazine.  A very formal write-up included elements of establishing ethos, logos (facts and figures about helmet hits), as well as a certain pathos when discussing the overall protection and safety of the NFL players. Perhaps the most useful rhetorical device used was the definition arrangement; by going through each part of the regulation, such as defining “launching” or “defenseless players”, Sports Illustrated presents an article that even those unaware of the specificities of football can understand and appreciate.

IRB: 50 Essays: On Dumpster Diving by Lars Eighner

                This section’s Independent Reading Book is an anthology of fifty essays selected by Samuel Cohen. The reading that I chose from this anthology is On Dumpster Diving by Lars Eighner, a blunt yet perceptive process analysis essay that explains the travels that Eighner had on the streets, homeless and as the title suggests, diving in dumpsters for food and other necessities.

                Eighner begins by describing what foods are safe to eat. He notes that the telltale signs of “safety” are obvious imperfections on the food, as “he [the diver] is constantly reminded that most food is discarded for a reason…Yet a lot of perfectly good food can be found in Dumpsters”. Canned foods, yogurt, candy, and even cold pizzas served as much of Eighner’s diet during his three years on the street. In addition to food, Eighner tells of how a scavenger (as he prefers the term) goes through certain stages, starting with self-disgust and then ending with a “dissipation of the shyness”.

                Not only does a scavenger find his sustenance through dumpsters, but also often unintentionally discovers surprises about those who discarded the trash or predicts where the best disposed items will come from. Eighner states that the college campuses are often the best sources of good items, and after a discourse on the oddities he has discovered in dumpsters, ends on this note: “…this is an attitude I share with the very wealthy- we both know there is plenty more where what we have came from. Between us are the rat-race millions who have confounded their selves with the objects they grasp and who nightly scavenge the cable channels looking for they know not what…I am sorry for them.”

                The strength in Eighner’s rhetoric of process analysis is simply the blunt and clear manner in which he describes what for many may be a less-than-appealing topic. On Dumpster Diving was written for his “rat races” that he mentions and written with the purpose of informing and making a statement about dumpster diving, as well as the wastefulness of society in general. The process analysis stands prevalently as piece by piece, Eighner takes apart different aspects of dumpster diving that makes it simpler and easier to understand: in effect, even sometimes more appealing to the common man.

Video Game Review: The Highs and Lows of Skyward Sword

                Beyond the music and movies of today’s culture, there also rests a vibrant video game community that lives through not only play but also video game review. This particular review, “The Highs and Lows of Zelda: Skyward Sword”, by GeekDad editor “Z” for Wired Magazine, displays a level of rhetoric and depth characteristic and comparable to those in the NY Times editorials. A new game for the Wii gaming system has added another adventure to the already 25-year-old Legend of Zelda video game series. “Z” turns this seemingly trivial topic into one of great discussion and analysis, one that even those who do not play video games can enjoy.

                In the series of Zelda, the games’ stories have similar plots: a boy sets out on an adventurous quest to save a girl stolen by dark forces. The only things that he has are a sword, shield, magical helper, and “an unbreakable spirit”. “Z” analyzes the new game, Skyward Sword, through both its technical and content materials. “Z” comments on the changing controls of the game, of how Wii’s Motion-Plus controls finally “live up to Wii’s long-neglected promise”. Noting that now the game takes into consideration which direction the Wii mote is swung, “Z” also explains that perhaps its success is because of the low-graphics level of the game itself. Skyward Sword takes on a cartoon-style graphics that for “Z” sometimes is overdone but sometimes compliments the game play. “Z” then delves into the content matter of the game, of exactly how engaging the story and plot is for the players. Aside from the traditional plot of all Zelda games, he notes that it has new adventures and the additions of outside influences to the game add to its uniqueness. However, “Z” also states that its dungeons (boss areas) are sometimes too repetitive, having to backtrack oneself over and over to accomplish some small task.

                “Z” uses a classification and division arrangement to appeal to not only readers of Wired Magazine, but also to appeal to the massive fan base that Legend of Zelda has. Rhetorically, “Z” always introduces a point that adds to the game play, but then notes an aside that has detracted from the game’s enjoyment. His purpose itself, as a video game review, adds to the rhetorical style expected for this. Because it is a rather informal review, “Z” uses the second-person and writes in a spatial context, always making sarcastic remarks and keeping the tone engaging all the while.

Unit 2 Reflection

Charlie Zhang

Gabriele/Pronko

Unit 2 Reflection #1

28 November 2011

            When I look to the past, there are several parallels that I can draw between times past and times present. Perhaps the overarching reason for such similarity is the concept of human nature: the idea that humans have not and will not change their habits over the course of hundreds and even thousands of years. This very concept of human nature is the basis of government for many philosophers, such as Machiavelli, Locke, Hobbes, and Rousseau. Examining contemporary society yields many instances of self-preservation, greed, and overall “pessimistic” human nature. Riots and strikes hold underneath their unionist ideals a rather selfish basis, and in fact much of today’s systems of government focus on “calming the masses”. Upon analysis of not only forceful content but also pointed style, I find that Machiavelli is the most compelling and viable source of successful government “contracts”, his works accurately reflecting the Occupy Wall Street movement, the ongoing Arab Spring in the Middle East, as well as presidential elections in the US. Though it may seem cynical of me to imply such low opinions of humans, my deliberations and decisions made ultimately led me to the same conclusions that Machiavelli and even Hobbes developed.

            I have always enjoyed philosophy. To logically discuss what always cannot be easily conceptualized allows me to truly take personal opinions into matters. This interest was compounded when I entered debate. For my specific event, a one-on-one duel of morals and values known as Lincoln Douglass, morals are paramount in arguments, and rather than using facts, logical conclusions are to be argued through explanation. The obvious source of such coherent reasoning is philosophy. Thus, upon tackling the assignment, I had already educated myself about the general ideas of the popular philosophers.

Armed with the proper knowledge, I began taking it upon myself to morally judge certain actions, regardless of whether they were already determined as right or wrong by society. For example, I saw that although protestors in Occupy Wall Street were justly angry and passionate, most of them were college graduates who had just finished their education and could not find a job, and heaped with large amounts of debt. The philosophical question to ask in this situation is whether or not they would be there protesting in the (now) cold streets if they were able to resolve their individual issues. If such motives are selfish, then that helps to assert the “greed” of humans and their self-preserving nature. Machiavelli forms this as essentially his major premise for The Prince.

Niccolò Machiavelli also adds in his discourse about government the need for a prince to keep power, and the need for a prince to do whatever he needs to do to keep that control. Before I read his work, I had preconceived notions about his pessimism, having already read part of it from AP European History last year. Also, in a historical context, I was aware that he was writing in a time of dissolution, when princes seemed to gain power as quickly as they lost it. Thus, it seemed to me that Machiavelli was not being pessimistic about human nature but rather realistic. This overall impression could be seen mainly through his diction and rhetorical arrangement of the piece.

Simple, pointed, and blunt, the voice of Machiavelli calmly discusses and dissects each part of his argument. There are not too many long and effusive sentences that attempt to display ethos on the side of the author; rather, Machiavelli even addresses a theoretical prince with the second person “you”, creating at once a casual and formal reading. This is even more significant in light of the fact that he is philosophizing about government. The calm tone and manner in which Machiavelli discourses adds to the theme of reality that he appeals to. There are no attempts to get around what his main points are.

A blunt and pointed tone adds to the effectiveness of Machiavelli’s straightforward arrangement. Separating the reading into sections, Machiavelli addresses each section first with a refutation or concession. For example, in “How a Prince Should Keep His Word”, Machiavelli first concedes that a prince should be considered as a trustworthy figure worthy of his royal status. Yet after the brief symbolic nod to the opposing argument, Niccolò quickly dives into how this message is quickly twisted in face of greedy and inherently primal people. For each point he provides a powerful example to illustrate the truth.

The truth of Machiavelli’s words manifests itself most powerfully in today’s international community. Governments today focus upon a delicate balance that sounds eerily similar to the beliefs of Machiavelli: the perfect balance by preserving power through (however false) appeasement of the masses. When that balance is shattered, disaster for the government follows. In the Middle East, I found that the Arab Spring is the ideal example of what happens when a government fails to keep its power through improper “appeasement” of the people. Machiavelli predicted in every situation that without the right iron grip over one’s own power, it is lost very quickly to discontent citizens. It is no longer government feared or loved, but rather one hated, a state of mind which Machiavelli says should be avoided at all costs. The government failed to control its people, and, as Machiavelli predicts, it collapses under its failure.

Even governments that are (arguably) stable, such as the US government, must adhere to Machiavelli’s “underhanded” moves to maintain power and stability within a nation. As per Machiavelli’s concepts, the President of the United States is to be a symbol of the free world, a sign of hope for most Americans to look to. However, beneath the glory and pride, the President often navigates through a politically treacherous government not only at home but also abroad. He (and hopefully one day she) manipulates those around, using tools of rhetoric to his advantage as he sways a varied population, from the leader of terrorist organizations to discontent citizens whom he hopes to gain for re-election.

I see now that Machiavelli’s realism stands in greatest light in terms of viable government. While it is classified as “philosophy” along with Hobbes and Locke, Machiavelli promotes what I believe is the most realistic form. There is no fancy discourse or attempt to logic his way into a confusing or unreasonable action; he presents things as is. And in doing so, I found that my political views had altered. I was no longer simply a student or an observer. I was one who understood the reality around me. I now comprehended justification of normally abhorred actions. I had become, as Machiavelli writes for, a proper prince.

Advertisement: Never Say No to Panda!

                One of the most popular viral advertisements is a string of short commercials from Panda, an Egyptian manufacturer of cheese and dairy products. In these commercials, called “Never Say No to Panda”, producer Hossam Fawzy portrays a dark sense of humor that suggests that refusing to eat Panda cheese results in being attacked by a life-size panda. Made in 2008, a combination of repetition and dark humor allow Fawzy to convey the purpose and ultimate goal of buying Panda Cheese.

                Several cut scenes are shown in the series of commercials; all involve individuals who refuse to eat Panda cheese and as a result are attacked by a life-size panda. An office worker gets his computer destroyed when refusing a Panda cheese sandwich. A hospital patient loses his TV and has his IV removed by the expressionless panda when he doesn’t want to eat Panda cheese for breakfast, and a pizza maker who has an order without cheese gets his materials ruined by the panda. When a father and son are in a grocery store, they eventually learn the second time to buy the cheese and walk away apprehensively as the panda follows them.

                The most powerful rhetorical devices used to “sell” a message to customers are humor and repetition. Humor also involves the repetition to create a sense of recurring ideas. For example, those who do not eat the Panda cheese are attacked by a panda suit character that materializes whenever someone refuses to eat.  This connects greatly to the repetition involved. For example, the song True Love Ways by Buddy Holly always plays in the background when the panda arrives. Also, after watching several commercials, one eagerly anticipates the destruction that the panda will cause to the individuals who unfortunately refused to eat the Panda cheese. The panda’s blank expression stands in sharp juxtaposition to the acts of destruction that he performs.

                Producer Fawzy certainly achieved his purpose of selling a convincing and interesting message about Panda cheese to prospective buyers. Through repetition and humor, Panda cheese has certainly elevated itself not only to perhaps successful business but also viral fame.

TIME Article: Below the Poverty Line

                Today’s economic situation for many stands in need of dire correction. Though some may believe that the worst is over, America still suffers a nearly 10% unemployment rate with an even higher poverty rate of 15.1%. TIME journalist Barbara Kiviat delves into the poor with her article “Below the Poverty Line”, in which she debunks myths about poverty that ultimately will help those trying to fix it. With a classification and definition arrangement, along with powerful images of families struggling on far too little, Kiviat displays the purpose of simply education about what really happens “below the poverty line.”

                Kiviat defines poverty as living under an annual income of $22,314 for a family of four. She asserts that many do not understand what it means to be poor in USA, and then proceeds to debunk five myths/misconceptions that many people have about US poverty. The first, “poverty doesn’t live in the suburbs”, describes how the seemingly middle-class and ideal US suburbs are actually the areas with the greatest poverty increases. Kiviat points to a lack of a security net and rather unchanging nature of suburbs as to lack of preparation that these suburbs have. The second myth, that “poverty is simply about not having enough income”, shows the small margin and the minor things that happen to people for them to go from doing relatively well to cycling into poverty. Myths three and four, “getting people out of poor neighborhoods is the answer” and “focusing on individuals is the key to poverty alleviation”, both make the point that to solve the problem one has to examine poverty holistically in order to fully conquer it. This brings Kiviat to the final and more optimistically debunked myth, that “poverty is inevitable.” She credits Social Security and private programs as models of how poverty can be drastically reduced, and how eventually we can really solve the situation of the forever poor.

                “Below the Poverty Line” is written in a classification arrangement, taking apart each myth and then giving either its validity or impracticality. Kiviat writes in a spatial context, writing in regards to today’s poverty situation and also that of previous hard times in the US. Statistics strengthen her argument and add to her logos and ethos. Pathos and emotion is strongly presented by the individual photos of those living in poverty, each with a small caption about the person’s often shocking conditions.

Political Cartoon- Penn State Sex Scandal

                Salt Lake Tribune cartoonist Pat Bagley places into his cartoon Penn State a perspective on the Penn State sex scandal that many have pondered, but few have openly stated. Drawn for the lucky day 11/11/11, Bagley pulls upon large amounts of communal knowledge to give this possibly controversial cartoon its powerful message.

                This cartoon is probably set in Beaver Stadium, the football field of Penn State. A priest in full attire, even with a Cross flying around his neck, appears to be playing in a game of football. This priest tosses something to a large, intimidating, but rather confused Penn State football player (as indicated by his jersey). Even the announcer shouts “and it looks like a hand off!” However, the centerpiece of this cartoon, and where the strength of its message comes from, is the unusual object being “handed off”: a young boy with the phrase “abuse scandal” on his back.

                The greatest rhetorical devices used by Bagley to achieve his purpose are extensive symbolism and even greater irony. The priest clearly represents the Catholic priests accused and found guilty of abuse; the Penn State player symbolizes the confusion and general Penn State community that has been left to deal with this scarring issue. The small boy, as indicated by the letters on his back, is the sex abuse that seems to be “handed off” between the Catholic priests and Penn State community.

There is a certain amount of communal knowledge that Bagley pulls upon, writing in actually a temporal context in that he shows his immediate reaction to the subject of this cartoon: the Penn State sex scandal. Communal knowledge requires that one know of the previous sex scandals that involved Catholic priests, and of the scandals involving the head departments in Penn State Athletics. Intended for the readers of the Salt Lake Tribune, Bagley implies his purpose through the cartoon that this concept of “abuse” is not novel, and seems to be occurring in different places, almost as if it were being “handed off”. 

IRB Blink Final Reading Section

        Although it certainly didn't take a "blink" to read, Malcolm Gladwell's Blink provided novel insights for the split second decisions made by individuals. Finishing this independent read displayed not only intuition about how these “thin-splices” work but also a level of rhetoric and stylistic skill that left the reader in complete agreement. 

        The remainder of Blink discussed further upon the skills of thin-slicing: of how sometimes they can be horribly wrong, of how this spontaneity can be “trained”, and how the proper “thin slice” needs to be seen. Gladwell dives into stories of how President Harding became one of the worst US presidents and how innocent Diallo was murdered, both from improper analysis and intuitions. Yet, in contrast to these obstacles, Gladwell points to how through split-second decisions General Van Riper defeated the entire US army (armed with total intelligence) in a simulation, and how by seeing and both hearing singer Kenna he  just “struck” with people. 

         Perhaps Gladwell’s strongest rhetorical device is that of arrangement and transition between topics. Gladwell follows an arrangement that’s a synthesis of exemplification and definition: as he proceeds to describe different parts of these split second decisions, there are general topics and examples for each. From each general topic, such as the story of the singer Kenna and how it relates to OVERALL rather than specific first impressions, Gladwell branches off and discusses smaller but interconnected examples, such as taste tests revolving around root beers and Coke vs. Pepsi. 

        Through logical transitions between all examples, Gladwell is able to bring Blink full circle by suggesting the power that we have as these gifted individuals at perception, and that through these examples readers gain control over their powers in perception and decision making: to master, as the cover suggests, “the power of thinking without thinking”. 

(Rhetorical Analysis Used: OPTIC)

Editorial: Politics, Pizza, and Pessimism

Politically driven NY Times Frank Bruni, columnist since 1995, writes an opinion-editorial about the sharp contrast that exists between the practical needs of this country and the political games currently being played. “Politics, Pizza, and Pessimism”, published on October 29, 2011, utilizes various examples of rhetoric to display Bruni’s purpose that the political “game” and our government is going in the wrong direction.

                Recently, two Republican candidates have released rather childish, even silly political ads and reasoning for their campaigns. Most prominent among them is Cain’s Internet ad, which displays Cain’s political manager smoking and a rather creepy Cain smile. This video has sparked internet fame, and is now the newest political butt of jokes. The irony of this entire situation is that Cain is currently in the leading group for the Republican polls; as Bruni puts it, Cain states that he’d never expect Americans “would actually buy this pizza”.

                In sharp contrast to this are the all too real events surrounding Occupy Wall Street and the nation’s unemployment rate (9.1%). These facts point to a frustration with the government; in fact, a poll shows that citizens currently only have a 9% satisfaction with Congress. As it proceeds to lead to debt talks, citizens prepare themselves for no change, little public involvement, and continued “silly politics”.

                The purpose was certainly achieved for the readers of the NY Times. Bruni wrote this opinion-editorial primarily in a causal context, reacting to the seemingly ridiculous political campaigning that is surrounding the Republican candidates and angrily noting that nothing is being done about real issues. He uses logos when citing several statistics, such as the 9.1% unemployment rate as well as the 9% approval of Congress. His ethos and credibility already established as a NY Times writer, his appeal to pathos is powerful with his sentences, using sarcasm with statements such as “… [Cain] appears in close-up at the end of the commercial, flashing a grin that’s two parts demented to one part demonic.”

 http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/30/opinion/sunday/bruni-politics-pizzas-and-pessimism.html?ref=opinion         

Editorial: The Paradox of the New Elite

                New York Times columnist Alexander Stille writes about in this opinion article about a rapidly rising new elite in the US, and those elites’ affects on a different social and economical America. Stille, a professor of international journalism at Columbia, wrote this on October 22^nd, 2011.

                Although America would like to think of itself as an equal nation, the truth is that there are very undemocratic conditions underlying America’s culture. This “meritocracy” is built upon those who, although certainly deserve their position, dominate today’s higher positions and signals a more inclusive US. Economic resources fall in the hands of the top 1% of the population, with more than 20% of the nation’s net income in their hands. However, while US do not have the economic stability that Europe has, it is far more inclusive than a culturally struggling Europe. Stille accounts certain factors, such as higher education, increase in immigration, and more emphasis on culture rather than class, as reasons for a changing America.

                Stille wrote this article in predominantly a spatial context, as well as a causal well given a certain situation. In terms of history and overall development, there are several references to the past, using historical information to support his editorial. For example, the mentions of the Great Depression as the only time when the top 1% owned more than 25% of the nation’ income adds significant logos to Stille’s argument. Given that he talks about the situation in a present context that is rapidly changing, this causal context is his response to an ongoing situation.

                Stille uses a lot of historical and social juxtaposition to get his purpose of opinionated awareness about the elite through to the readers of the New York Times. Historically, Stille makes constant references to the past, of how what was “elite” then isn’t necessarily “elite” today. He also juxtaposes the different uses of “cultural inclusion”, of how Martin Luther King Jrs.’s argument of equality is ironically used by conservative politicians today.

                Alexander Stille’s purpose is certainly achieved, present through his convincing logic as well as rhetoric use of historical and social juxtaposition.

Essay from "A World of Ideas"- Freud: The Oedipus Complex

                In the anthology “A World of Ideas”, one of the selected pieces is Sigmund Freud’s “The Oedipus Complex”. Sigmund Freud, who lived from 1856-1939, is generally regarded as the father of modern psychiatry. He is famous for use of dream analysis and the unconscious in determining one’s mental state. This carried into the “Oedipus Complex”, a work about the repressed desires of infants.

                Freud begins his discussion by pointing out that the main difference between psychoneurotics and normal people is simply that the minds of psychoneurotics have not progressed beyond what he calls the Oedipus complex. Named after Shakespeare’s Oedipus who kills his own father and then marries his own mother, the Oedipus complex describes the desire that a boy has to have sexual relations with his mother and kill his father. Initially, such a claim would seem absurd and almost certainly mentally insane.

However, Freud explains how by appealing to audience’s innate (but subconscious so unaware) Oedipus complex, Shakespeare’s plays resonate with all. Another parallel is drawn with Hamlet, whose father has been killed by the very same man who is now with Hamlet’s mother. In an analysis of the play, it is suggested by Freud that he does not kill the man according to his father’s ghost as he represents the repressed desires that Hamlet had as a child. Freud describes that the criticism that “we couldn’t even dream” of such a thing is indeed correct; it is so monstrous that our mind does not prepare to defend itself against it.

Written in a spatial context based off of personal thoughts and old plays, “The Oedipus Complex” was written for the general public and perhaps more specifically to those psychoneurotics that he discussed, who were stuck at a sexual development many had when they were only infants. The main purpose was to describe to readers a phenomenon that he claims we are not made aware of, something present in what he calls our “subconscious”.

Freud certainly achieves his purpose through several devices. One of the most prevalent is his use of the royal “we”. This implies primarily that we as human beings are all the same and experience common ideas and moments. In addition, although this might seem generally accepted, his own personal additions to the piece add a lot of credence and insight into this rather complicated and unusual idea. For example, he anticipates the thoughts of readers and then attempts to answer them accordingly. 

Unit 1- Assignment Question Reflection

To be quite honest, there was a great deal of speculation upon arriving into AP English Language and Composition. Particularly when Mr. Gabriele dived into the concept of rhetoric and all seemingly abstract ideas, I am certain I was not the only person who felt apprehensive about the upcoming year. For the first couple days and maybe even weeks, my main confusion and concern surrounded around what exactly rhetoric was. However, I felt that my "saving grace" came with the reading of Tim O'Brien's "How to Tell a True War Story." I felt that it was a powerful piece, but even more so because the certain rhetorical elements and styles of arrangement that Mr. Gabriele had been discussing for a time finally crystallized in my mind. For example, use of specifically short sentences, the arrangement of definition, and the activity surrounding the reading involving the writing of information on those poster sheets really assisted and finally put together my understanding of rhetoric. The climax of this came when the writing of the in-class essay came. Although most students would dislike such assignments, I surprised myself during the process. Because a timed writing forced me to think purely about what I absolutely understood... Describing the differences in rhetoric was a test for myself and a surprise as to what I knew: and I finally understood rhetoric!

Political Advertisement: Rick Perry- Proven Leadership

Video: Rick Perry- Proven Leadership
Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EL5Atp_vF0&feature=relmfu

         This video is a political advertisement on September 20th, 2011 titled Proven Leadership. It was released by Rick Perry, current Texas governor, as part of his political campaign to become the Republican candidate and eventually win the presidential election in 2012.
         Perry’s video is split into two parts. The first is a heated attack on current President Barack Obama, accusing him of downgrading America’s economy and creating no. However, the second part of the video turns to a positive and bright outlook for America, for a future nation that will be supposedly made possible by Governor Rick Perry.
        The use of visual rhetoric and rhetoric in general is extremely prevalent in this passionate political advertisement. Several statistics such as “Zero jobs created in August” from CBS News are used (logos). Also, depressing images of a country that’s gone to ruin are shown in a lonely playground, abandoned warehouse, and decaying cities (pathos). This use of imagery is further taken with a symbol of Obama’s failing presidency: a HOPE presidential poster during Obama’s 2008 campaign is shown rotting away on a dirty wall under heavy rain. Also, quotes from Obama’s speeches, such as “I’m just getting started”, are placed in a specific order and time to create the sense that HE is creating and intending for all of these events to happen.
When the video turns to Rick Perry, the juxtaposition is all too noticeable. Scenes of sunny fields, happy workers, and even horses running add to the positive future that Rick Perry promises. Dramatic music fills the background as scenes of patriotism and America’s famous locations are shown. At the center of all of this is Governor Perry, who asserts that “America is the last great hope for mankind”.
         Intended for the general American public, and created in a causal context for the upcoming 2012 presidential elections, Rick Perry certainly achieved his purpose of creating some sort of change amongst Americans. It appeals strongly to pathos and makes use of visual imagery to accomplish simply the fact that Obama is bad, Perry is good.

Me Talk Pretty One Day Presentation Pd 4

IRB: Blink Reading Section 1

Note: I read all the way up to page 72 for this section rather than the previously indicated 48.

            Malcolm Gladwell, author of Blink, is a Canadian journalist who writes for The New Yorker. He has published several other social psychology books. He appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List four times.

            In 1983, artists looked at a supposed kouros, or Greek sculpture, and immediately knew it was fake. It took scientists and historians a month to figure out what some experts saw in a split second. Likewise, just by analyzing the details in a couple’s conversation, psychologist Tabares knows whether a couple will still be together. Gladwell points to all of these as examples of the unconscious mind, a part of our brain that allows us to pick out patterns and make snap judgments. In the first part, The Theory of Thin Slices, Gladwell discusses how looking at something for just a few seconds can create far more accurate predictions than, strangely enough, knowing someone or something for a period of time. In his second part, Gladwell talks of a “locked door”; how the unconscious mind cannot be expressed and oftentimes cannot be accessed voluntarily by humans.

            Blink was written in mainly a spatial context. Gladwell mainly talks about things that have happened, and compiles them into one book. He discusses these “snap decisions,” these “thin slices,” from a scientific standpoint not necessarily related to any cause or immediate actions (although ironically enough Blink is about when people react in a temporal context!). It was intended for those who enjoy social psychology (such as myself), and for those who like many have some strange sense of awareness and judgment that they just cannot explain, and want answers.

            The main purpose of this book is for readers to gain an insight into what they before had not known about: the unconscious mind. As Gladwell says, it’s not the one Freud describes, but rather one that dictates HOW we think and gives us unnatural judgment. He describes the different parts and examples of its power, and at the same time, also shows how we as humans can improve ourselves with this knowledge of the “thin slice”.

            By using several rhetorical elements, Gladwell was able to accomplish his purpose. One rhetorical device he uses is directly talking to readers, addressing them in a casual manner as if he were lecturing in a college hall; this gives his tone a clear and easily understood inflection. Gladwell also cites numerous examples, such as tennis coaches, marriage counselors, art experts, and all groups of people who exemplify his ideal of the unconscious mind’s power. He appeals mainly to logos: in an analysis of the potency of speed dating, Gladwell takes a look at a specific group in Columbia and explains their experiences. His ethos is already established as a famous writer and bestseller.

Opinion-Editorial: Is Junk Food Really Cheaper?

                NY-Times food columnist Mark Bittman tackles a long-standing national problem that is all-too prevalent in the United States: the massive consumption of junk food. In this editorial, “Is Junk Food Really Cheaper?”, Bittman uses predominantly a comparison-contrast rhetorical arrangement, using juxtaposition with different foods and statistics to ultimately point to his purpose: fast-food exists, it’s being consumed at a monstrous rate…BUT there is something people can do about it.

                Bittman, a food writer for 30+ years, begins by establishing that fast-food is neither less expensive nor more filling than supermarket produce, defeating these common misconceptions. He uses primarily logos, citing statistics that display the disparity in prices: McDonald’s for a family will cost $28, whereas roasted chicken with peppers and milk bought at supermarkets costs only about $14. This established both Bittman’s introduction as well as part of his confirmation.

                However, Bittman decides to qualify his previous statement, which may be his own self-refutation. In a sharp CONTRAST, Bittman presents reasons WHY people are at the mercy of “hyper-processed foods”. Bittman appeals to logos and pathos. Logos appears in science: a scientist writes that there is a certain pleasure similar to drug addiction that arises from consuming fast-food. Pathos is certainly present: Bittman writes about the exhaustion people face, about how cooking may be a burden.

                Bittman ends with his conclusion by explaining that a major social/cultural change is required to end the fast-food regime. He uses logos when he explains that tobacco has undergone similar changes, and establishes ethos with his credibility as a food writer and knowledge of several organizations promoting exactly the change he’s looking for.

                Intended for readers of NY-Times, Bittman writes in spatial and causal context. Obesity is both a new and constant issue, rising as one of USA’s top concerns. It thus historically holds as spatial, but he is also writing it in regards to a current problem, as a reaction to the 50%+ Americans who are not JUST overweight but obese, making it causal as well. At the conclusion, Bittman achieved his purpose, having readers think differently about not only fast food but also the troubles surrounding its culture.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/25/opinion/sunday/is-junk-food-really-cheaper.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&ref=opinion

http://www.healthnative.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/junk-food.jpg

Political Cartoon- Puzzled President

            This political cartoon was published on September 17^th, 2011, in the Star Tribune, a newspaper for Minneapolis, Minnesota. This political cartoon was drawn by Steve Sack, a 2004 Pulitzer Prize finalist, the editorial cartoonist since 1981, and recipient of numerous national accolades.

            The purpose of this political cartoon was to make a statement about Democrats’ positions on Obama’s possible second term. This is clearly displayed and fully explained in the puzzle’s message “One Term for Obama”. A defeated-looking, pale, and thin Obama weakly holds up a puzzle piece labeled “jobs” to a corpulent elephant. Dressed in a blue pinstripe suit that sharply contrasts with Obama’s black one, the Democratic elephant accepts it in a bemused and sarcastic manner, promising to see if it “fits” into his agenda. Clearly it doesn’t. In fact, the only “piece” that will fit is a promise of only one term.

            “Puzzled President” was drawn in both causal and spatial context, intended for readers of the Star Tribune. It is causal because presidential elections are in 2012, and many, including the President, are already campaigning. The cartoon is also made in a spatial context because throughout Obama’s term, many Democrats have expressed disapproval of the President.

            The three appeals are also evident. Logos is evident in that Obama’s “jobs” piece will not fit into the puzzle, and that one term is needed instead. Ethos is established with Sack’s knowledge of the “jobs” puzzle piece, which refers to the Jobs Bill that Obama wants to pass in Congress. He also is familiar with the elephant as the Democratic symbol, and is aware of 2012 elections. Pathos is used in portraying a thin and weak Obama, of a sarcastic, fat elephant, and a looming bleach-white puzzle/agenda.

            

Independent Reading Assignment

Title of Book: Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking
Author: Malcolm Gladwell
Section 1: Introduction to Part One (pg 1-47)
Section 2: Part Two to Part Three (pg 48-98)
Section 3: Part Four to Part Five (pg 99-188)
Section 4: Part Six to Conclusion (pg 189-276)

Ironically enough, I had initially planned to read The Tipping Point, which is another book by Malcolm Gladwell. However, somehow had accidentally signed out the book when I had already done so earlier in the day. Thus, I found the next best thing: Blink. I have always been interested in social psychology and analysis of society; in fact, one of my favorite and most enlightening books is A Whole New Mind, a book that discusses how today's modern society is becoming more "right-brain" oriented. It changed my perspective on how I view the world and also myself (I am left-handed, and generally those who are left handed use the right side of their brain more often). I hope to find Blink in a similar style and content!!

Article: "Portraits of Resilience": Ali Abbas

        Stories about 9/11 fill the news. Ali Abbas presents a similar tale: but this time of an Iraqi whose life was forever changed by American bombings. Interviewed by TIME’s William Lee Adams in London, Abbas tells of his own 9/11.

            In 2003, Abbas returned home one night to rest. While Abbas was asleep, a bomb detonated nearby. Rushed to a hospital, it was only two weeks later that Abbas realized his family was killed. In his home with his father, brother, mother, and thirteen others, Abbas was the only to survive, his arms amputated because of burns.

            Despite such disabilities, Abbas returned to a normal life, this time in London working towards charity. He notes that “I don’t mind the American people. They are nice…but of course I am angry. Now people…have bombs falling on their houses without any reason.”  

            Written in the context of wartime, his “portrait” in TIME’s “Portraits of Resilience” sheds new light on 9/11, how its consequences affected people beyond USA. Abbas’ primary purpose was to show Americans HIS story, a tragedy on the other side of the war. Intended for those who were blinded as he was with anger against “the other side”, Abbas offers reconciliation. Abbas primarily achieves this through pathos, appealing to emotions of readers as he describes the traumatic bombing, distressing deaths, and then heartwarming recovery. Abbas successfully describes “the other side”, his rhetoric made strongest by his blunt language. There is nothing for him to hide; there is no reason as to why he should not.

Abbas, Ali, and William Lee Adams. "Portraits of Resilience: Ali Abbas." Time Magazine 19 Sept. 2011: 50-51. Print.

Picture Source: http://debra.worldcantwait.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/AliAbbas-217x300.jpg