I was immediately hooked once I began reading the first chapter of Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. The planet in this futuristic so called utopia is run by the World State; their motto being "Community, Identity, Stability" (3). As the beginning of the novel unfolds we notice how this motto is in effect. The first chapter details the growth of human beings within a laboratory. This idea relates to cloning that is taking place today and the prediction scientist have on what will be able to be grown in a laboratory. In the novel Bokanovsky's Process takes place when one embryo splits and forms up to ninety six humans. This is where we begin to see Identity. A person is not only developed in a lab but they can be identical twins with up to ninety five other humans which shows a loss in one's unique identity. Everyone is beginning to look, dress and talk alike forming one identity.
As the story continues chapter two displays the stability factor in the World State's motto. As these humans develop in a red room they continue onto the Social Predestination room where newborns and children are somewhat brainwashed. They are exposed to loud noises at the sight of books and given electric shocks at the sight of flowers. This part in the novel reminded me of the firefighters in Fahrenheit 451 who burned books in order to save society from an artful expression of ideas. Hearing loud noises and being shocked as a child teaches them to ignore nature and simply work. This is part of what could stabilize the planet. Another idea that could fall under both community and stability is the separation of people into the Gammas, Deltas, Alphas and Betas who are all known for wearing a certain color or doing certain things such as drinking. The community is also run in a caste system where one class of people is higher than the other. They closed museums and blew up historical monuments. Erotic and sexual play is also a significant part of this novel. Humans grow up within stages of life from the Hatchery to Social Predestination and so on. As they grow children are introduced to these types of games. This idea relates to today's society and how we are exposed to sexuality at younger ages by hearing things on TV, friends or experience. Sexual activities aren't seen starting in adulthood as much as it did in the past.
We are introduced to characters that seem to start and question the power inside they seem unable to use. This happens today when people conform to the norm in society ignoring the power they hold within.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Iraq and Machiavelli
James Holmes starts his article by stating how demolishing a totalitarian regime and instead instilling something more "humane" isn't as easy as we may think. The problem doesn't only lie with Sadaam Hussein but the Iraqis in general, who are prone to pick up a gun and fight rather than negotiate their political interests. James points out a main point in Machiavelli's novel is having a firm hand when transitioning from a totalitarian regime to a more human regime. Flip flopping ideas in the leadership of the transition will provoke these feelings to arise from the people going making the transition. Machiavelli also pointed out how leaving under a tyrant makes the virtues of the accustumed people less lively, spirited or intense and people who are without care and attention are more likely to fall under the first master they are exposed to. This idea is present in Iraq. Meaning people who are freed from tyranny are "newly freed beasts" who don't know how to reason their defense will rely on what they know. Machiavelli's idea was "'a corrupt city that lives under a prince can never be turned into a free one, even if that prince is eliminated along with all his line" and the only way to reach freedom for these people would be for a good person with virtue would help them transition from their bad habits.
James described two hypotheses for America's role in Iraq and judging how our military is still present in Iraq his latter hypothesis would be more correct. Iraqi people have bad habits that prevent them from developing a more humane means of government and America will be a part of Iraq's politics for years to come.
James described two hypotheses for America's role in Iraq and judging how our military is still present in Iraq his latter hypothesis would be more correct. Iraqi people have bad habits that prevent them from developing a more humane means of government and America will be a part of Iraq's politics for years to come.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
The Prince 10-18
Chapter 10 and 17
"...it is impossible not to foresee difficulties in attacking a Prince whose town is strongly fortified and who is not hated by his subjects" (27). This quote goes along with the idea in chapter 17; better to be loved or feared? A strong fortified town, where the ruling Prince is admired, is something worth fearing. When it comes to times of strife or wartime, "men are less careful how they offend him who makes himself loved than him who makes himself feared" (44). Meaning strong countries, such as the U.S., are less likely to be the victim of an attack from a foreign force. This idea relates to the situation in Iran; if Iran is to develop nuclear bombs the U.S. isn't likely to be the victim of an attack.
Chapter 10
"...since human affairs are so variable that it is almost impossible for any one to keep an army posted in leaguer for a whole year without interruption of some sort" (27). When a country has an army it suggests that they will seek military action if needed; these armies will not remain uninterrupted when the human affairs in today's world vary.
Chapter 14
"For with contempt on one side, and distrust on the other, it is impossible that men should work well together" (38). This quote sums up the U.S. relation with Iran and their nuclear programs. Iran is the side with contempt and the U.S. is the other side with distrust of Iran's motivations; it is impossible for the two countries to have any form of alliance or work together with this situation.
"...it is impossible not to foresee difficulties in attacking a Prince whose town is strongly fortified and who is not hated by his subjects" (27). This quote goes along with the idea in chapter 17; better to be loved or feared? A strong fortified town, where the ruling Prince is admired, is something worth fearing. When it comes to times of strife or wartime, "men are less careful how they offend him who makes himself loved than him who makes himself feared" (44). Meaning strong countries, such as the U.S., are less likely to be the victim of an attack from a foreign force. This idea relates to the situation in Iran; if Iran is to develop nuclear bombs the U.S. isn't likely to be the victim of an attack.
Chapter 10
"...since human affairs are so variable that it is almost impossible for any one to keep an army posted in leaguer for a whole year without interruption of some sort" (27). When a country has an army it suggests that they will seek military action if needed; these armies will not remain uninterrupted when the human affairs in today's world vary.
Chapter 14
"For with contempt on one side, and distrust on the other, it is impossible that men should work well together" (38). This quote sums up the U.S. relation with Iran and their nuclear programs. Iran is the side with contempt and the U.S. is the other side with distrust of Iran's motivations; it is impossible for the two countries to have any form of alliance or work together with this situation.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Machiavelli and the Mullahs
This article is about how Machiavelli's masterpiece offers advice on how to handle situations during times of "heightened peril". He wasn't concerned with man's moral perfection but survival in this sometimes violent world. Machiavelli argues that through careful actions leaders can actually shape the outcomes of events to their advantage by "snuffing" out danger. The Mullahs are using Iranian money to concoct their terrorist trade in Iraq. Machiavelli also makes reference to the idea that if you wait to hear big news it could be too late; which could suggest the U.S. taking action against Iran before something big happens.
President Bush could be guided by three principles of Machiavelli's novel: self-reliance, the importance of being feared and the need to take the initiative once conflict is inevitable. This idea in the article makes sense. President Bush can't and doesn't rely on others when reaching decisions because "the arms of another will fall from your hand, will weigh you down, or restrain you". However, at the same time leaders need the people to back them up, that's why the U.S. is a Republic and elects their leaders. Another idea mentioned is there is "greater security in being feared than in being loved" and that mutual interests make alliances, not affection. This idea makes sense if Islam really does fear the loss of power.
One final idea Machiavelli leaves us with, a nation "will always have to choose between risks...prudence lies in knowing how to distinguish between degrees of danger and in choosing the least danger as the best". Taking action and using force against Tehran's nuclear operations make be the path with less danger.
President Bush could be guided by three principles of Machiavelli's novel: self-reliance, the importance of being feared and the need to take the initiative once conflict is inevitable. This idea in the article makes sense. President Bush can't and doesn't rely on others when reaching decisions because "the arms of another will fall from your hand, will weigh you down, or restrain you". However, at the same time leaders need the people to back them up, that's why the U.S. is a Republic and elects their leaders. Another idea mentioned is there is "greater security in being feared than in being loved" and that mutual interests make alliances, not affection. This idea makes sense if Islam really does fear the loss of power.
One final idea Machiavelli leaves us with, a nation "will always have to choose between risks...prudence lies in knowing how to distinguish between degrees of danger and in choosing the least danger as the best". Taking action and using force against Tehran's nuclear operations make be the path with less danger.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
The Prince
Chapter IX Of the Civil Princedom
This chapter had the best advice for achieving the role as a prince or leader of a country.
"I come now to the second case, namely, of the leading citizen who, not by crimes or violence, but by the favour of his fellow-citizens is made Prince of his country" (24).
This seems to be the best way for achieving this role because the people support you as the leader and to me a great leader is one who is supported by the people.
Chapter VI Of New Princedoms Which a Prince Acquires With His Own Arms and By Merit
This chapter had an idea included that would represent the worst advice.
"The wise man should always follow the roads that have been trodden by the great, and imitate those who have most excelled, so that if he cannot reach their perfection, he may at least acquire something of its savour" (12).
A wise man wouldn't need to follow the actions of previous leaders or imitate those who have excelled. A wise man would have his own ideas and goals to pursue that might not be the same as great leaders of the past but could make him an even better leader.
This chapter had the best advice for achieving the role as a prince or leader of a country.
"I come now to the second case, namely, of the leading citizen who, not by crimes or violence, but by the favour of his fellow-citizens is made Prince of his country" (24).
This seems to be the best way for achieving this role because the people support you as the leader and to me a great leader is one who is supported by the people.
Chapter VI Of New Princedoms Which a Prince Acquires With His Own Arms and By Merit
This chapter had an idea included that would represent the worst advice.
"The wise man should always follow the roads that have been trodden by the great, and imitate those who have most excelled, so that if he cannot reach their perfection, he may at least acquire something of its savour" (12).
A wise man wouldn't need to follow the actions of previous leaders or imitate those who have excelled. A wise man would have his own ideas and goals to pursue that might not be the same as great leaders of the past but could make him an even better leader.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Time Article Iran
The National Intelligence affirms that Iran is a threat
The Bush Administration: Plan is to pressure Iran in order to stop them from gaining the intelligence to complete nuclear bombs. They believe that easing up on the pressure would be a "tragic mistake".
Iran policy is a compromise between the hawks, who believe military action is needed, and Washington realists and European allies, who believe negotiating between the U.S. and Iran is the way to go. Iran can't be trusted and President Bush will not speak with Iran until they stop their production of enriched uranium. He is continuing to push coercive sanctions while leaving the option of military action "on the table".
Washington Hawks: This group doesn't want to risk failure to notice nuclear threats or intelligence that happened with Iraq. They believe military action should be kept on the table along with coercive sanctions to further pressure Iran.
Democrats and Republican 'Realists': This group supports negotiations with Iran. The administration's claims on activity in Iran has been "inflated" and there is no reason to seek military action. This group wants to attack the Bush Administration for inflating the threat of nuclear attack and push a new approach for diplomacy.
Israel: Recognizes the threat reported by the NIE and thinks that if the U.S. doesn't react on the information Israel will face mortal danger by an Iranian bomb. Israel will push the U.S. to take coercive action and persuade Europe to back up stronger sanctions.
Europe, China, Russia and Arabs: These European countries believe we should keep pressure on Iran to meet the UN demands but don't believe the NIE gave any threatening report. China and Russia don't see the need to strengthen sanctions against Iran.
Iran: Will not be "bowing" to any foreign power trying to weaken their uranium enrichment and nuclear programs. They insist on maintaining their current research rate.
It's hard to say what group has the best method of action when we don't know whether or not the Bush Administration is inflating the NIE reports or not. It is also hard to know whether or not Iran would use a nuclear bomb if it was concocted.
The Bush Administration: Plan is to pressure Iran in order to stop them from gaining the intelligence to complete nuclear bombs. They believe that easing up on the pressure would be a "tragic mistake".
Iran policy is a compromise between the hawks, who believe military action is needed, and Washington realists and European allies, who believe negotiating between the U.S. and Iran is the way to go. Iran can't be trusted and President Bush will not speak with Iran until they stop their production of enriched uranium. He is continuing to push coercive sanctions while leaving the option of military action "on the table".
Washington Hawks: This group doesn't want to risk failure to notice nuclear threats or intelligence that happened with Iraq. They believe military action should be kept on the table along with coercive sanctions to further pressure Iran.
Democrats and Republican 'Realists': This group supports negotiations with Iran. The administration's claims on activity in Iran has been "inflated" and there is no reason to seek military action. This group wants to attack the Bush Administration for inflating the threat of nuclear attack and push a new approach for diplomacy.
Israel: Recognizes the threat reported by the NIE and thinks that if the U.S. doesn't react on the information Israel will face mortal danger by an Iranian bomb. Israel will push the U.S. to take coercive action and persuade Europe to back up stronger sanctions.
Europe, China, Russia and Arabs: These European countries believe we should keep pressure on Iran to meet the UN demands but don't believe the NIE gave any threatening report. China and Russia don't see the need to strengthen sanctions against Iran.
Iran: Will not be "bowing" to any foreign power trying to weaken their uranium enrichment and nuclear programs. They insist on maintaining their current research rate.
It's hard to say what group has the best method of action when we don't know whether or not the Bush Administration is inflating the NIE reports or not. It is also hard to know whether or not Iran would use a nuclear bomb if it was concocted.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Iran: Struggle for Democracy
Citizens of Iran are demanding democracy after twenty-five years of Islamic theocracy. In the 1950's Mossadeq was the prime minister that gained control from the Shah. Shah's pro-Western regime was reinstated but portrayed as benefiting Western powers, the United States. Opposition arose against Shah and Khomeini was founded the new influential cleric. He declared the country the Islamic Republic of Iran and called for a new religious government based on the strict principles of Shi'iah Islam. He died in 1989 and lower-level clerics controlled everyday political operations. Members of the opposition could expect imprisonment, torture and even execution. The ruling clerics possessed the countries wealthy while citizens experienced unemployment with a rising cost of living. Young people, three-quarters of the population, couldn't listen to Western music, criticize rulers or be involved with the opposite sex.
Mohammad Khatami was elected president in May of 1997. He was a moderate cleric that represented a voice for the young people, university students, and women in the demand for increased democratic freedoms. Reformist newspapers began to circulate as the opposition movement had begun. The conservatives tried to stop the advancements of reform; a clerical regime sent police forces to attack the Tehran University dorms leaving three dead and many injured or arrested. Clerics were moving to protect their conservative ideas by closing reformist newspapers, torturing opposition leaders and having Bassijis break up student demonstrations. Reform seemed to disappear. "The growing political crisis in Iran garnered worldwide attention" and has grabbed the attention of the United States specifically. The citizens and some officials in Iran are torn on whether or not they want U.S. intervention leaving our country to face the difficulty in compiling a strategy for facing the Islamic Republic of Iran.
After reading this article it seems obvious that the first step in solving any problems would be for Iran to figure out their governmental situation. With political crisis occurring throughout the country that remains the number one priority before solving problems with nuclear factories.
Mohammad Khatami was elected president in May of 1997. He was a moderate cleric that represented a voice for the young people, university students, and women in the demand for increased democratic freedoms. Reformist newspapers began to circulate as the opposition movement had begun. The conservatives tried to stop the advancements of reform; a clerical regime sent police forces to attack the Tehran University dorms leaving three dead and many injured or arrested. Clerics were moving to protect their conservative ideas by closing reformist newspapers, torturing opposition leaders and having Bassijis break up student demonstrations. Reform seemed to disappear. "The growing political crisis in Iran garnered worldwide attention" and has grabbed the attention of the United States specifically. The citizens and some officials in Iran are torn on whether or not they want U.S. intervention leaving our country to face the difficulty in compiling a strategy for facing the Islamic Republic of Iran.
After reading this article it seems obvious that the first step in solving any problems would be for Iran to figure out their governmental situation. With political crisis occurring throughout the country that remains the number one priority before solving problems with nuclear factories.
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