TOW #28 - Political Cartoon of the Cold War

Krushchev vs Kennedy

     Following the Cold War, the United States became engaged in extremely tense conflict with the Soviet Union that would last for 44 years. This political cartoon depicts the Soviet Premier Nikita Krushchev and President John F. Kennedy holding a finger on buttons that lead to a bomb under the other person. Artist Leslie Gilbert Illingworth uses facial expressions and gestures to illustrate the magnitude of this conflict, and prove that this was a conflict of mutually assured destruction. 

     In this political cartoon, both Krushchev and Kennedy have a stressed expression, which hints that both sides of the conflict share a degree of uncertainty in the issue at hand. With both countries stocking up on nuclear arms and fighting proxy wars, the Soviet Union and the United States were walking on a very thin line in terms of diplomatic relations. Although no actual wars were fought between the two countries, hence a 'cold' war, tensions were nonetheless high and the risk factor great. If one nuclear bomb was dropped, as the cartoon depicts, it was a guarantee that more bombs would be dropped in revenge. This would not only hurt the two countries involved, but the majority of the world; it would guarantee destruction on the global level, which is why both sides are being hesitant in holding that power.

     In this cartoon there appears to be a slight bias towards the United States, hinting that despite the apparent mutual destruction mentality, the United States had the upper hand. This can be seen in the many beads of sweat on Krushchev versus the mildly stressed President Kennedy.  Although the cold war was something posing threats on both sides, the artists depiction of the two leaders suggests that Kennedy holds the upper hand. Another contrasting attribute to the two leaders is Krushchev's  unshapely and balding figure versus the full-headed fit Kennedy. By portraying Kennedy in a more visually pleasing way, the author is able to subtly indicate his/her support for the United States in this 'cold' war. 

     From when World War II ended until the Soviet Union disbanded, the two nations were at war with each other. From stocking up on nuclear weapons, space races, and fighting proxy wars, tensions between the two nations grew greater with each year. This conflict grew so great that it brought upon the theory of mutually assured destruction, a major idea that artist Illingworth is trying to convey in his cartoon through use of facial and body language. 

TOW#27 - The Onion Article

The Onion

     In this satirical article from the Onion, the author writes about President Trump's "promise to work tirelessly to achieve (his) campaign's goals." In the article, the author satirizes President Trump's promises to make America great again through his/her use of diction and sardonic tone to convey how ridiculous his promises are. 

     Looking back on the past 100 days of Trump's presidency, it is clear that Trump has held true to his promises. In his inaugural address he threatened to implement new immigration laws and made promises to give jobs back to Americans. The author of this article refers to this "disturbing inaugural address" as threatening, and causing "tense, fearful glances" among the audience. The author also points out that his "intimidating assertions that he would seek out" were fear-invoking and very frightening. When the author describes President Trump's campaign and looks back on his presidency with a fearful eye, the author's opinion of Trump's promises are obvious; intimidating, frightening, and scary. The image of Trump as a man with a frightening persona can be visualized.

     The author also uses a sardonic tone when quoting President Trump to show how ridiculous his campaign promises are. Trump states that "Everything that I've stood for in this campaign, all of the goals I've set, I will work around the clock until each one is achieved." Many of his promises were hurtful to the unprivileged, so it is ironic that he would be so ecstatic while knowing that he would bring many people to their demise. The author realizes that there is a contrast between the audience's opinions of his ominous warning and his forward-looking promises. When the author includes Trump's "guarantee to the American people...it that (he) will do his best to accomplish everything" he said he would do, the author is warning the readers of the future times. The author writes about the "collective gasp emanating from the National mall"" is reflective of the author and other readers' opinions on Trump's promise.      

     By using a critical diction and sardonic tone, the author is able to convey the flaws and potential fears of Trump's presidency while making things less serious by adding humor to the issue. Utilizing direct quotes from President Trump make show the serious side of this satirical article and the issue at hand. This article allows people to see the real threats behind President Trump's campaign promises and be more aware. 

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TOW #26 - Looking Beyond the Ivy League (IRB)

 
     

     For my final IRB book, I chose to reader Loren Pope's "Looking Beyond the Ivy League." Having spent many years working as an expert on the college application process, Pope is a very credible resource on advice for choosing colleges. She has written many books on the secrets of good applications, how to chose the right school for you, and how to write a good college application. In this book, she focuses on why an Ivy League school is not a guarantee match for every student and how to determine whether a school is good for you. Pope is able to convey this message to her audience effectively through her use of expert testimonials and anecdotes. 
     Pope begins her book by going through a list of common college myths and proving them wrong. The first myth that she addresses is that "an Ivy League school will absolutely guarantee the rich, successful life" (3). She proves this false with her claim that "liberal education in the research universities is a project in ruins" (3). Realizing that many of her readers may not buy her claim, she uses a former Harvard dean and Princeton scholar to provide a second opinion. He, too, believes that there is no hope of change in Ivy League schools that will provide students with a liberal education. Pope continues to use expert testimonials when she mentions Harvard's Dr. Harry Lewis, who is a notable author for writing in detail about his school's failings and their causes: "H is for Harvard and Hypocricy" (2). The purpose of higher level education is to help teenagers find themselves and their passions, but as Pope well-craftedly points out, Ivy League school do not always guarantee such an experience. 
     Pope continues to touch upon the college application process, and through her use of anecdotes she is able to have the reader better connect with the message being conveyed. Looking for colleges that are right for you is an extremely stressful process that she and many of her students have gone through and understand. She includes their experiences of going to an open campus college tour and meeting the admissions office for an in depth information session. By including personal experiences as well as stories from her own students, Pope adds the personal element into her book. She offers information on the application process, and this personal element helps to reassure her readers that you don't have to attend an Ivy League school to be successful in life. 
     Lauren Pope has spent many years studying colleges, the admissions process, and overall what makes a college great. From her studies, she has come to the realization that an Ivy League school is not necessary to be successful in life. Through expert testimonials and anecdotes, Pope is able to break down the common stigma and instead encourage students to pursue a college that is actually right for them. 

IRB Intro Post #4 - Looking Beyond the Ivy League

Why Take Chances with Your Future?

     For my fourth and final IRB, I chose Loren Pope's Looking Beyond the Ivy League. Loren Popoe is one of America's most respected experts on the application process and has also written the book Colleges that Change Lives. This unique book focuses on how to find the college that is right for you, the reader. It offers all the information a person in the application process may need, and reassures readers that you don't have to attend an Ivy League school to be successful in life. Pope addresses twenty myths that can jinx a student's college choice, and offers steps that guide students through the application process. Her main argument is that "you'll need to successfully make a decision that will affect the rest of your life," especially with "as few as one-third of college students remaining at the same institution they entered as freshmen." My father recommended me this bookf to better educate myself on the application process. Upon his suggestion, I decided to give this book a try and found myself pleasantly surprised. 

TOW #25 - WWII Political Cartoon

A-Bomb in Hiroshima, Japan

     On August 6, 1945 the United States of America dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, another bomb was dropped this time on Nagasaki. Approximately 250,000 Japanese civilians died, either immediately or after a prolonged period of suffering. This political cartoon depicts the extent of horror the A-bomb had on Japan. 

     The atomic bomb brought death to many Japanese citizens because of its immense power. In this political cartoon, it shows the words "death" and "ruin" on two ghost-like, grim reaper-like characters. The United States being portrayed as grim reapers, bringers of death, is indicative of their causing of the 250,000 Japanese deaths. In comparison, the Japanese peasant is very small frightened and surprised. His only method of protecting himself from such a surprise attack was with a paper umbrella. In reality, many Japanese civilians had not even the slightest clue that they would be met with such a disastrous fate. Atomic bombs are terrible weapons that bring mass destruction and death; this political cartoon shows the extend of just that. 

     Along with character portrayals of the United States and Japan, the fire triggered by the tall ghost-like figures continue to bring the destruction towards the Japanese people. The ruin that the grim reapers brought engulf everything in flames, and has lasting effects. The title "We Have Come To Stay" shows that the destruction was something that was not momentary, but brought with it prolonged suffering and death. This illustration shows the United States in a dark light, for they obstructed small Japanese towns with an immensely powerful weapon.

     The atomic bomb is often regarded as a necessity to the war that allowed allied forces to win. However, what is often overlooked is the death and suffering it brought along with it. Ruin brought by the grim reapers was widespread throughout the country, bringing death and ruin to the Japanese people. 

TOW #24 - IRB Tuesday's With Morrie

Tuesdays With Morrie

     In the second half of my IRB book Tuesdays With Morrie, I was able to experience Morrie's last lecture on death. Essentially a thesis to Morrie's last lecture, Mitch Albom's book gives a very personal account on the relationship between a teacher and a student. In the first half of the book, Morrie and Albom were just beginning to rekindle their friendship after Albom found out about Morrie's condition on a newscast. In the second half, a bigger emphasis was put on both parties who were trying to absorb as much as they could in the limited time available. 

     Morrie's biggest message to Albom is that death is not something to be afraid or ashamed of. Albom shared this concept with his readers by including anecdotes in his book. Because Morrie's muscles are slowly deteriorating, he is unable to dress, shower, and even go to the bathroom himself. Most people would be embarrassed to hire a helper and lose their sense of privacy. However, Morrie chooses to see it in a positive light, as a way to become closer to other people. Instead of thinking about how he used to be, he believes he should "accept who you are, and revel in it." Everyday Morrie is closer to death, but he is not afraid. It only makes him value every single day, and want to his life to his fullest. Although the book is written by Albom, the anecdotes included in the book make Morrie a very real part of the reader's mind. 

     Albom also includes many of Morrie's aphorism to help convey this philosophy on death to his readers. Morrie is a very wise man who believes that people should accept reality, and work to make every day great. He does not believe death is something to be afraid of, because everything that is born will eventually all die. Albom attempts to share the wisdom he learned from Morrie by quoting the following: "Death ends a life, not a relationship." One thing that Morrie does not understand about people is their tendency to associate death with lost relationships and broken bonds. Morrie sees it quite the opposite, because it is the news of his soon death that brought him many new friends and helped him to rekindle old bonds. 

     It is through anecdotes that the audience is able to see Morrie on a more personal level, and his aphorisms helped to teach the audience about his philosophies. Mitch Albom includes these devices in his book in order to pass on the wisdom he received from Morrie and help pass on the lesson. This book was a great read and is one of the best I have had the pleasure to read of recent. It opened my eyes to the almost taboo-like idea of death and made me appreciate the little things in my life. 

   

TOW #23 - Political Cartoon of American Imperialism

American Imperialism

     During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States began to develop an interest in expanding past their borders. Spanish militarism in Cuba provided the United States with an opportunity to begin this involvement in Latin American affairs. This ultimately led to the Spanish American war which provided the United States with many new acquisitions: Hawaii, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. Although some claimed that these actions were purely humanitarian, others argue that it was primarily out of greed and selfishness. In this political cartoon, artist Jeanine Sabbbah shines light on the ethnocentrism behind American expansionism to prove that US imperialism was driven not only by humanitarian reasons but also militaristic and economic gains.
     Facial expressions are very significant in this cartoon, from the children up front squirming in horror at Uncle Sam to the Chinaman standing out of place in the doorway. Uncle Sam's condescending look as he faces the children of the islands shows how the U.S. viewed the Latin American islanders as inferior. This is relevant to the time period because many people used Social Darwinism to justify the monopoly of minorities. As seen with Cuba, Philippines, Hawaii, and Guam's faces leaning back in fright, it can be understood that the artist felt US imperialism was an aggressive policy.  The use of facial expressions helped in conveying the emotional downsides of imperialism.
     Clothing is also a very important device that helped the artist in achieving his purpose. Uncle Sam is the most obvious displays of nationalistic clothing with his red and white striped pants and start-dotted vest. He is seen wielding a stick towards the island children who are dressed in very American, westernized clothing. This is a portrayal of the US attempting to assimilate the minority to their standards under the pretense of mentoring them, as a teacher would a student. However, in the right corner the Chinaman and Native American are donning traditional outfits. This shows how the United States pushed away the Native American and China issue, not even bothering to dress like Americans do.  

     This political cartoon showed US imperialism as a form of teaching and learning under the pressure of assimilating to American culture. Many people felt that because it was under the decree of Uncle Sam, it was patriotic and nationalistic to support the cause. However, artist Jeanine Sabbbah felt a need to educate Americans on a different perspective of what US imperialism truly entails. It is through her use of facial expressions and clothing in this political cartoon that she is able to shine light on the darker sides of imperialism. 

TOW #22 - Social Contract Theory Rhetorical Text

  

Jean-Jacques Rousseau - “The Origin of Civil Society”

During the early 18th century, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and a few others lead what is now referred to as the Age of Enlightenment. He was a French philosopher who offered the world with a new perspective on society and how it is governed. His most famous philosophy is on the social contract theory and the freedom of the natural man. Rousseau effectively persuades his readers into agreement in his book "The Origin of Civil Society" through his use of comparisons and hypophoras.

Throughout his arguement, Rousseau stresses the importance of natural societal order and how most forms of society today obstruct it. In order to open up the eyes of his readers to this societal issue, he compares family to the state. He states "Children remain bound to their father for only just as long as they feel the need of him for their self-preservation. Once that need ceases the natural bond is dissolved" (59). Likewise, the natural order of society should be that people live protected my the government until they reach Independence. This give and take of paternal love is natural; However, in the state "the pleasure of commanding others takes its place, since the ruler is not in a relation of love to his people. Political power is (hardly) ever exercised in the interests of the governed" (60). Rousseau's technique of comparing family with the state was very effective, because it made it more apparent on how the two were similar; the children are like the people and the father is the head of the state. In highlighting the benefits of natural societal order and comparing it to the unnatural way of government, Rousseau persuades his audience of the benefits of the social contract theory.

In addition to comparisons, Rousseau's use of hypophoras allows him to emphasize the significance of his purpose and persuade his readers to support his social contract theory. He presents many rhetorical questions to his readers that make them see logic behind his theory. In his "Of Slavery" section, he proves that slavery is unjustifiable and inhumane. If a man wanted to become a slave to another he would be selling himself. But, an entire race of people do not spontaneously agree to such conduct. Rousseau then asks, "but why should a whole people sell themselves?" (63). This makes the reader think about the ugly truth behind slavery, as well as realize that the oppressed have their own wills as well. He also presents a very logical argument that all people, regardless of race, are born with total freedom and no one can take that away from them. The government during this time does not respect that, however with his social contract theory they would be a step closer to achieving it.

In combatting the issue of tyranny and corrupt government, Jean -Jacques Rousseau argues against the total power of the monarchy. He believes that the power to legislate lies within the people, and it is under their natural right to freedom. To convince his readers of this argument, he uses comparisons and hypophoras.  To him, That a more natural way of societal order is necessary.

TOW #21 - "President McKinley Gives His Reasons for Keeping the Philippines"

President McKinley 1903

When President McKinley decided to keep the Philippines during the year 1903, a heated debate arose throughout the country. Although the concept of imperialism was something that had been often considered part of the American tradition, the conquering of the Philippines was particular in that they were not granted the liberty and freedom other islands had received. President McKinley's pro-imperialists beliefs  primarily surrounded the idea that there was no alternative options because economically, diplomatically, and socially the U.S. was pushed in a corner. Realizing how sensitive and controversial the matter of the Philippines would be, he attempted to sway the public with his opinions in this speech by utilizing religious appeal and lists.

President McKinley heavily stressed the importance of helping out the natives. He makes many religious references and even goes as far as to say that after many restless days of contemplating the issue of the Philippines, God reached out to him and gave him guidance. This was a very relevant and effective way of swaying the public because many people during this time were very religious and very Christian. Henceforth, if God said it was okay to take the Philippines than it must be an honorable deed. He also makes it appear as though America was doing the Philippines a favor by attempting to uplift, educate and Christianize the natives by god’s grace. In his speech he even compares their plight of educating the natives to how "[their] fellowmen for whom Christ also died." Pro-expansionists often used this argument to justify their imperialism of the Philippines. This idea of the American godly-duty was well bought by the crowd, especially in the early days of imperialism.

President McKinley also utilized lists to make a more logical argument for imperialism. During this time period, there were several movements that fought adamantly against imperialism and questioned the extent on which they were acting for the welfare of others. McKinley likely felt that the best way to fight back against the backlash was to provide an argument, which is why he listed his reasons for keeping the Philippines. McKinley reasons that because returning the Philippines "would be bad business and discreditable" and "cowardly and dishonorable." He even mentions that they were "unfit for self-government--and they would soon have anarchy and misrule" if the Americans did not intervene. Although in current times it appears to be an absurdly egocentric thing to say, with the rise of Social Darwinism at the time it was a very valid argument that he made to his people. The idea of helping to unburden the islands and conforming them to American ideals to make them just like the Americans appealed to many, which is exactly why the Philippines were kept.

President McKinley was extremely open to his people on his contemplating over the Philippines decision. To buy public support on this severely controversial issue and provide justification for his motives and actions, he utilized religious appeals and lists. His beliefs that it was the American duty, responsibility, and even mandate from god to keep the natives is very clear in his speech.

TOW #20 - IRB "Tuesdays With Morrie"

Tuesdays With Morrie

      For my IRB this marking period, I chose to read "Tuesdays with Morrie" by Mitch Albom. As mentioned in my earlier IRB post, this book is about a student, Mitch Albom, and his dying college professor. These two had a very close bond since Albom's college days, and in Morrie's final days they spend a lot of time together discussing about the meaning of life and its lessons. The first chapter of the book is the Curriculum-the Syllabus. In it, Albom introduces the audience to the weekly meetings he has with Morrie. Rather than describing it as a out-of-place meeting, he depicts their meetings as a continuation of his studies. The classes are held in Morrie's house. This is where we are introduced to the pink hibiscus plant, a symbol that would later come to represent life and death.  

     As Morrie's sickness worsens and his body deteriorates, the petals of the hibiscus plant begin to fall losing life. They wither and fall, one buy one as Morrie's dependence on his oxygen aid grows. The hibiscus plant is continuously used as a symbol for life, specifically Morrie's. It is understood that the closer Morrie approaches death, the death of the plant grows closer as well

     A particularly upsetting moment so far in this book was when Albom, during one of his meetings with Morrie, recalls the summer of 1979 when he graduated. After receiving his diploma, Morrie approached him to greet his parents, describing Albom as a "very special boy." In turn, Albom presents Morrie with a tan briefcase engraved with Morrie's initials. Both men's eyes well up with tears and they promise each other to keep in touch. 

     Although I have just recently begun this book, I already fill greatly enraptured by it. I too have an extremely special teacher who greatly impacted my life. I feel I can relate to Albom in the ever great thanks I feel towards my teacher. This book is also extremely meaningful with beautifully sad moments. I feel very enlightened every time I open this book and am excited to continue reading.

TOW #19 - Visual Analysis of "We Can Do It" War Poster

"We Can Do It"

     For this week's TOW, I chose to do a rhetorical analysis of the iconic "We Can Do It" war poster. More commonly referred to as the Rosie the Riveter poster, it was designed by J. Howard Miller in 1942. He was a freelance artist from Pittsburgh who was commissioned to draw up a poster that would portray American patriotism, regardless of gender, to garner everyone's war effort. When this poster was made, the United States were in midst of World War II. As the males left to fight on the forefront, women were left behind and job positions opened up. Posters such as this one called for women to take these jobs upon themselves and prove themselves equal as men. Through the artist's use of color and portrayals of strength, he is able to effectively sell the idea of America as the home of the free and equal by conveying to his audience that women are just as necessary to the war effort during this time. 

     The color scheme of this poster is very iconic and practically blares out American patriotism: blue, white, and red. As America was fighting a war during this time period, any and all public support was necessary. A movement of sorts began to bring in women into the workforce to help the nation. The bright blue shirt, red and white headband are very patriotic articles of clothing. It appeals to the audience of primary women and make the workforce and war effort an appealing thing. Despite fashion of this time consisting primarily of dresses and/or skirts, Rosie is seen wearing a blue-collared shirt; a motif of the working class. Hankerchiefs were not something that women used as sweatbands, but Rosie proved that women do not have to be held down by fashion standards either. Ads such as Rosie the Riveter were very successful in appealing to women and encouraging them to step out of the norm.  

     Physical attributes of Rosie are also key in portraying an uncommon perspective of the potential of women. Her iconic pose of flexing her arm shows the audience her muscles, which aren't overly muscular, but enough to show strength. Her facial expression is also stern and bit aggressive, showing conviction and power. Both her facial expression and her curling of her arm were out of expectations of women as dainty beings. Instead, it challenged societal expectations and showed that there are other alternatives for women. Put all together, Rosie appears to be a very hard-working woman. It conveys to the audience that women are strong enough and capable enough of men's jobs. 

     Artist J. Howard Miller did a brilliant job in illustrating a women of the workforce, especially given the time period. Rosie the Riveter would soon become an iconic image for women's rights, challenging societal norms from various different angles. It is through advertisements such as these that women were encouraged to join the workforce, and America was able to expand upon their ideology of equality and gain support for the war. 

IRB Intro Post #3 - Tuesdays with Morrie

     For my third IRB, I chose to read Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom. As the title suggests, this book is a memoir about author Mitch Albom and the life lessons he learned from his old proffesor. 78 year old Morrie Schwartz was Albom's sociology professor back in college. Albom, currently a  newspaper sports columnist, hadn't heard from his professor until one day he received news that the Schwartz was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Album immediately goes to visit his professor, and to his surprise Morrie remembered his student. Together they recount their experience as a student-teacher, and from what I gather, the book ends with their last conversation. The entire book is a recount of the conversations between the Mitch Albom and Morrie. I am extremely excited to read this because my friend who recommended it to me has only said good things about it.

TOW #17 - Trump's Immigration Ban

Protests at Airport against Trump's Immigration Ban

     This photo was taken just hours after the federal judge passed President Trump's 'temporary ban' on immigration. This ban affected immigrants from seven countries where Islam is the national religion: Iraq, Iran, Syria, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Libya. Immediately following this decision where loads and loads of protests, most notable the campaigns against the ban at airports around the country. As depicted in the photograph, hundreds of people from all races, genders, age, ethnicities are protesting at the the airport. I felt strongly that the photographer well captured the facial expressions and diversity at this particular protest and effectively demonstrated the rejection of the people against President Trump's executive order restricting refugees. 

     At first glance, the disdain on each and every one of the people's faces is obvious. What makes this image particularly effective are the people sadly gazing at the American flag. It sends a more powerful message of upset and disappointedness towards America as a whole. The words "We are America" are crumpled up in the folds of the flag, and the protesters can only hope that they can make a change. This ban prevents even those with green cards from coming back into the country after leaving the U.S.. Refugees from Syria run the risk of being banned indefinitely. However the protesters clearly believe that these actions are not what America is about. Banning immigration is not American, protesting for what is right is. On top of facial expressions, the photographer focused on an extremely diverse section of the protests at the airport. By doing so, the artist is able to strengthen the image of America as a strong nation of diverse people and not just one character. The picture works as a proof of defiance as well as a symbol for unity and strength. The true America welcomes people with open arms and will not quietly allow such injustice to unravel. 

     Trump's immigration ban has raised many eyebrows and heightened tensions between many people. Some immigrants have gotten lucky with being able to remain in the states with a green card. Unfortunately, for some their luck is limited and have had to lose family members to the law. Many stories have come about on families who have become separeted because of the law. Fortunately, with people like these protesters standing up for equality, America can remain strong and defiant in the face of injustice. 

TOW #16 - Blink, Malcolm Gladwell (IRB)

"Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell

   
     In the second half of my IRB book Blink, author Malcolm Gladwell discusses about the "right-and wrong-way to ask people what they want" and "the delicate art of mind reading." Through his use of expert testimonials  and anecdotes, Gladwell is able to effectively convey his theories to his audience.
In the chapter "right-and wrong-ways to ask people what they want," Gladwell utilizes expert testimonials to establish the credibility of his theories. The theory discussed in this particular chapter suggests that, contrary to popular belief, body language can reveal a lot more about a person than asking them directly. He first offers John Gottman as evidence, who found that "we can learn a lot more about what people think by observing their body language or facial expressions or looking at their bookshelves and pictures on the wall." Gladwell then mentions Vic Braden, who found that while people "are very willing and very good at volunteering information...those explanations aren't necessarily correct." Gladwell then goes on to offer his analysis, saying that there is a lot more to people than what you see outside. Finding out about people may seem as easy as asking a few questions and relying on an honest speaker. However, he mentions that many people tend to over dramatize things that observing behavior is a much more accurate way to understanding a person's mind. By having experts to speak on this idea, on top of offering his own explanations, was very effective in proving the feasibility of his theory.
In the chapter "the delicate art of mind reading," Gladwell uses anecdotes to explain his theories and appeal to the audience's emotions. He begins this chapter with an anecdote about a twenty-two year old man from Guinea who lived in South Bronx, working as a peddler in lower Manhattan. Having come to the U.S. just recently, his English was poor and he had a stutter. While enjoying a night out right by his house, a group of plainclothes police officers marked him as suspicious because of two things: His loitering, which made him look like a "lookout for a 'push-in' robber;" and his appearance, which fit that "of a serial rapist who had been active in the neighborhood." So, the four white policemen got out of their cars, chest inflated by their bulletproof vests, and approached Diallo. When he ran away from these men, who looked frighteningly like a gang, he was shot numerous times. The truth about Diallo was discovered shortly. Gladwell believes that "there is almost no other impulse so basic and so automatic and at which we so effortlessly excel." His anecdote shows how important this impulse is in daily life, because for the four policemen, failure of at this most fundamental task cost Diallo his life. "Every waking minute that we are in the presence of someone, we come up with a constant stream of predictions and interferences about what that person is thinking and feeling." We try to read every person we meet, and that is what allows us to see the truth, or at least a glimpse of it.
By using expert testimonials and anecdotes, Malcolm Gladwell is able to convey the complexities of his theories to his audience. He effectively illustrates how body language reveals more about people than conversations, and how making snap judgments is the most fundamental and human impulse. In completing this book, I was able to view the world a bit more differently. Blink is a very good read that I would recommend to everyone.

TOW #15 - "Crimes Against Kansas" (Charles Sumner)

Charles Sumner on the Crimes Against Kansas

     In the year of 1856, the Union was undergoing a difficult time period known as the "Bleeding Kansas." As the name suggests, much blood was shed on American soil primarily because of conflicting opinions on abolitionism. Charles Sumner was a strong advocate for abolitionism and denounced the Kansas-Nebraska Act (which stated that the Nebraskan territories can become free or slave by popular sovereignty). This act angered many abolitionists of the time because it quite clearly favored southern slave states. In retaliation to this, Charles Sumner delivered his "Crime against Kansas" speech on May 19 and May 20 that argued for the immediate admission of Kansas as a free state. He also denounced the "Slave Power" and their criminal behavior of raping a virgin territory. His vivid imagery and passionate tone helped struck a chord in many people, successfully increasing abolitionism support. 

     Sumner first attacked the "Slave Power" in an attempt to denounce the peculiar institution of slavery and criminalize slaveholders. He says, "Not in any common lust for power did this uncommon tragedy have its origin. It is the rape of a virgin territory, compelling it to the hateful embrace of slavery; and it may be clearly traced to a depraved desire for a new Slave State, hideous offspring of such a crime, in the hope of adding to the power of slavery in he National Government." Sumner compared southern slaveholders rapists with animalistic desires to rape a pure territory. This 'pure territory,' of course, referring to the Western lands that had just recently been acquired from Mexico and Britain. By making comparisons between slaveholders and rapists, Sumner is able to sway his audiences' opinions against slaveholders. If enough people see the evil sinful side of slavery, Kansas and Nebraska would be able to become free states. Even better, slavery may be able to be suppressed. 

     Throughout his entire speech, Sumner is passionately voicing out his feelings. Sumner was well-known to be a speaker with a temper, which fortunately, proved to be useful in his case. Legal scholar William R. Long states that the speech was a "gauntlet thrown down, a challenge to the 'Slave Power' to admit once and for all that it were encircling the free states with their tentacular grip and gradually siphoning off the breath of democracy-loving citizens." And sure enough, Sumner's speech and the conflict that came about later was crucial in advancing the abolitionist cause. It also proved that abolitionists were not afraid to fight for what they believed in, even if it was by violent means.

    American politician and Massachusetts's Senator Charles Sumner successfully furthered the abolitionist cause through his characteristically graphic speech "Crimes Against Kansas." He denounced the Slave Power and advocated for Kansas' immediate admission as a free state very passionately with use of great imagery. It is through his use of such rhetorical devices that he was able to prove his great support of the abolitionist cause and fight against injustice. 

TOW #14 - A Romantic Portrayal of Napoleon

"Napoleon Crossing the Alps"

     This oil-painting is of Napoleon Bonaparte, a prominent and ambitious political and military leader of the early 19th century. This painting by French artist Jacques-Louis David is just one of the five versions of and oil on canvas portrait of Napoleon crossing the Alps. Commisioned by the King of Spain, this romantic portrayal of Napoleon illustrates the strongly idealized view of Napoleon's crossing with his army. 

     In the spring of 1800, Napoleon led the Reserve Army across the Alps through the Great St. Bernard Pass. This is a portrait of just that. His intention was to "retake" the territory seized by the Austrians. A most prominent visual of an idealized Napoleon is the hand gesture of Napoleon. The raised hands was a well known gesture of reprimand of emotional displays. In Napoleon Crossing the Alps, the gesture leaves no doubt as to the will of the commander to arrive to his goal. It does not indicate the summit, but rather shows the observer the inevitability of victory and at the same time orders his soldiers to follow. The bare rather than gloved hand may indicate Napoleon desiring to appear as a peacemaker rather than a conqueror.

     David uses inscriptions to reinforce the symbolism in eight of his known works. In this picture, the rocks bear the names of Hannibal and Charlemagne alongside Bonaparte, linking them by their crossing of the Alps, and portraying Napoleon as their successor. The inclusion of Charlemagne and the "IMP", signifying an Emperor status raises doubts as to the level of Bonaparte's involvement with the addition of the inscriptions. 

     The first two of the five copies of this painting was exhibited in the Louvre Museum in France in 1801. This romantic portrayal of Napoleon is the most famous painting and sought after painting by David. Although they lost their appeal to the French community after Napoleon's downfall, today it is a well known painting depicting the turmoils of 19th century France.