Fall 2024 Essay Prompts Fifth Revision
Revised & Polished Essay Prompts for Fall 2024
1A Essay 1: Is Following Your Passion Bad Career Advice?
The Purpose of Essay 1:
The purpose of your first essay is to explore the potential dangers and weaknesses of following your passion at the exclusion of other factors to achieve success. In what ways is following your passion dangerous? In what ways is the notion of passion a meaningless cliche? Why do such meaningless cliches become influential? What kind of audience hungers for these empty platitudes? How is Cal Newport’s idea of the craftsman mindset offered as an antidote to the dangers of following your passion? What moral considerations should be factored into cultivating a craftsman mindset?
To explore these questions, you can choose from one of the following 2 prompts:
Choice A:
In a 1,200-word essay that adheres to current MLA format and provides a minimum of 4 sources for your Works Cited page, write an argumentative essay that defends, refutes, or complicates Cal Newport’s claim from his YouTube video "Core Idea: Don't Follow Your Passion," his online article “The Passion Trap” and "The Career Craftsman Manifesto" and Ali Adbaal's YouTube video "Follow Your Passion Is Bad Advice. Here's Why" that the career advice to follow your passion is dangerous and should be replaced by the craftsman mindset. Be sure to have a counterargument-rebuttal paragraph before your conclusion. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice B:
In a 1,200-word essay, address the claim that the Netflix movie The Founder, about McDonald’s Fast-Food King Ray Kroc's rise is a cautionary tale about following Cal Newport’s notion of the craftsman mindset without a moral compass. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
1A Essay 2: Frederick Douglass Champions the Real Version of African-American History
The Purpose of Essay 2:
You will examine Frederick Douglass as the Northstar of African-American history to address the claim that teaching African-American history is a form of anti-American, “woke” indoctrination by examining Frederick Douglass’ rigor in presenting the truth of American history. By studying Frederick Douglass’ life, you can interrogate common assumptions about freedom, democracy, and social justice. You can study Frederick Douglass’ witness to slavery as an antidote to the American revisionist myth of the Lost Cause, which perversely celebrates slavery as a blessing by God ruined by “Northern aggression against state rights.” You can also study Frederick Douglass’ life as an exemplar of discipline, literacy-fueled transformation, continual self-improvement, and commitment to helping others overcome what Jordan Peele calls the Sunken Place. In sum, the life of Frederick Douglass is a repudiation of false claims and Strawman arguments that depict African-American history in a derogatory manner to silence African American voices.
For Essay 2, choose one from the following:
Choice A: Frederick Douglass Lifted Others Out of the Sunken Place
In recent years, there have been critics of teaching slavery, Jim Crow, and racial injustice in the classroom. These critics claim that such teachings have degenerated into biased and extremist political ideology that is intended to indoctrinate students into an anti-American mindset with America painted as the unredeemable devil; that this anti-American mindset encourages helplessness and victimization, and that this mindset has corrupted educational institutions so that rather than teach critical thinking, they foster “Woke” political indoctrination. However, some will counter-argue that such renditions of African-American history are a perversion of real African-American history, which through ignorance or malice twist the essence of African-American history in order to attack it and silence African-American voices. These defenders of African-American history will posit that while it's true there are political dimensions to the study of African-American history, there are also spiritual, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. To truly understand African-American history, we are well advised to look to Frederick Douglass whose writings were designed to uplift the oppressed from what Jordan Peele calls The Sunken Place. Based on the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, American Slave (available as a PDF online) and Clint Smith’s essay “Monuments to the Unthinkable,” write a 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that teaching about the life of Frederick Douglass and learning about Germany’s post-World War II moral reform is a way of learning about racial injustice that avoids the aforementioned pitfalls because Douglass’ life and Germany’s moral reform embody the importance of helping others rise above the Sunken Place, bearing witness to the truth, embracing individual self-agency to resist societal injustice, fighting to redeem a society’s past racial sins, and championing the wisdom of the Ancients for our continual self-improvement. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources. For this assignment, I recommend two excellent books for further reading: Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom by David W. Blight and The Pursuit of Happiness by Jeffrey Rosen. I also recommend the 2022 documentary Becoming Frederick Douglass.
Choice B: Frederick Douglass and the movie Black Panther Point to a Way Out of the Sunken Place
In recent years, there have been critics of teaching slavery, Jim Crow and racial injustice in the classroom. These critics claim that such teachings have degenerated into biased and extremist political ideology that is intended to indoctrinate students into an anti-American mindset with America painted as the unredeemable devil; that this anti-American mindset encourages helplessness and victimization, and that this mindset has corrupted educational institutions so that rather than teach critical thinking, they foster “Woke” political indoctrination. However, some will counter argue that such renditions of African-American history are a perversion of real African-American history, which through ignorance or malice twist the essence of African-American history in order to attack it and silence African-American voices. These defenders of African-American history will posit that while it's true there are political dimensions to the study of African-American history, there are also spiritual, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. To truly understand African-American history, we can compare the themes in the 2018 Ryan Coogler movie Black Panther and Frederick Douglass whose writings were designed to uplift the oppressed from what Jordan Peele calls The Sunken Place. In this context, write an essay that compares the way we can learn the essence of African-American history in the movie Black Panther and the writings of Frederick Douglass. This comparison should address the importance of helping others rise above the Sunken Place, bearing witness to the truth, embracing individual self-agency to resist societal injustice, fighting to redeem America, and championing the wisdom of the Ancients for our continual self-improvement so that we can find our “Inner Wakanda.” Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources. For this essay, I recommend the following YouTube videos: “Black Panther: Symbolism Explained” and “Black Panther--Creating an Empathetic Villain.”
Choice C. Glory Vs. The Lost Cause
The Lost Cause is a perversion of African-American history, a fabrication that claims that slavery was blessed by God and that in the system of slavery, whites and blacks lived in peaceful harmony, but the evil North ruined this harmony through “Northern aggression” and the “violation of state rights.” Write an essay that addresses the claim that the 1989 movie Glory provides an effective counter-narrative to the heinous mythologies behind The Lost Cause. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice D. Misinformation Is the Enemy of the People
Write an essay that addresses the claim that the misinformation that fuels The Lost Cause as interrogated by Clint Smith’s essay “Why Confederate Lies Live On” and the the lies of Alex Jones evident in the HBO Max documentary The Truth Vs. Alex Jones makes a persuasive case that misinformation is the enemy of moral decency and a liberal democracy. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice E. Condescension and Stereotyping
Comparing Jordan Peele’s movie Get Out with Cord Jefferson’s movie American Fiction, write a 1,200-word essay that analyzes the way both films are a critique of white liberal condescension toward African Americans. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
1A Essay 3: Is Social Media Manipulating Us?
The Purpose of Essay 3:
The purpose of Essay 3 is to interrogate the claim that social media is manipulating us and turning us into “thirsty” social media addicts. Is this claim true? Or is social media not the cause of our downfall? Is social media in fact merely exposing the pathologies and mental frailties that are already there? Could it be that we are in the beginning stages of a Social Media Learning Curve and that our mental strain in the face of social media is both natural and predictable?
To examine social media more critically, choose one of the following 3 prompts:
Choice A
Using as your sources the Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma, Jonathan Haidt's essay "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid," and Sherry Turkle’s Ted Talk video “Connected But Not Alone," write a 1,200-word essay that explains the "nosedive" or mental breakdown of Lacie Pound in the Black Mirror episode "Nosedive." Did social media cause her “nosedive” or merely expose the “nosedive” that would have happened regardless? Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice B
Comparing the Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma and Jonathan Haidt's essay "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid," write a 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that technology is dehumanizing us by manipulating us with cheap and easy dopamine and other insidious techniques that leave us emotionally and spiritually impoverished. Are there not other sources beyond social media of “cheap and easy dopamine”? Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Essay 4: Groupthink, Moral Compromise and Mass Hysteria
Choice A: Comparing two works of fiction, movies, or media content, develop a thesis about the connection between Groupthink, moral compromise and mass hysteria.
For paragraph 1, define Groupthink and write about yourself or someone you know who succumbed to Groupthink resulting in a degree of self-destruction and moral compromise.
For paragraph 2, your thesis, compare two works of fiction, movies, or media content. Be sure your thesis is demonstrable in that it presents at least 5 points of comparison so you can have at least 5 body paragraphs.
Paragraphs 3-7 are your body paragraphs.
Paragraph 8 is your conclusion, a powerful restatement of your thesis.
Your last page is your Works Cited page in MLA format. It should have a minimum of 5 sources.
Here are a list of stories and movies you can use for your comparison:
- “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson
- "The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas" by Ursula K. Le Guin
- “The Country of the Blind” by H.G. Wells
- The 1976 movie Network
- The 1998 movie The Truman Show
- The 2019 documentary FYRE: The Greatest Party That Never Happened
- The Twilight Zone episode “The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street”
Choice B Mass Hysteria and the Loss of Freedom
Addressing the movie The Truman Show and the rise and fall of social media star The Liver King, write an essay that explores the connection between self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the loss of freedom.
For paragraph 1, chronicle the rise and fall of the Liver King.
For paragraph 2, your thesis, compare the connection between self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the loss of freedom in the movie The Truman Show and the rise and fall of social media star The Liver King. For your body paragraphs, consider the following:
- Self-commodification becomes a form of insanity.
- Idealized self-curation makes them forget who they really are at their core if their is even a core at all.
- As their persona grows, their authenticity does as well.
- They become addicted to external social validation and suffer the consequences.
- The cost of fame is the loss of freedom and autonomy.
- Mass hysteria feeds the false persona that so the society and the individual live in a dysfunctional symbiotic relationship.
Your conclusion is a powerful restatement of your thesis.
Your final page is an MLA-format Works Cited that has a minimum of 5 sources.
Choice C: Acclimating to a Loss of Privacy and Increased Surveillance
Write an essay that addresses the loss of privacy, exploitation, commofidication of private life, and increased surveillance in the movie The Truman Show and the CNN article by Faith Karimi “The first social media babies are adult now.”
For paragraph 1, summarize the movie The Truman Show.
For paragraph 2, summarize the CNN article by Faith Karimi “The first social media babies are adult now.”
Paragraph 3, your thesis, will make a claim that addresses the loss of privacy, exploitation, commofidication of private life, and increased surveillance in the movie The Truman Show and the CNN article by Faith Karimi “The first social media babies are adult now.”
Paragraphs 4-8 are your supporting paragraphs.
Your conclusion is a powerful restatement of your thesis.
Your final page is an MLA-format Works Cited that has a minimum of 5 sources.
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1C Essay 1: How People Are Persuaded and Manipulated by Clever Storytelling
The Purpose of Essay 1:
With subjects as varied as weight-loss management, tabloid misogyny, and the Silicon Valley Tech Grift, we want to interrogate the claim that people without critical thinking skills are all too easily persuaded and manipulated by clever storytelling, tropes, and memes. With this in mind, choose one of the following prompts for Essay 1:
Choice A: Is Losing Weight Based on a Fiction?
Consider the difficulty of losing weight as argued in Johann Hari’s “A Year on Ozempic Taught Me We’re Thinking About Obesity All Wrong,” Harriet Brown’s essay “The Weight of the Evidence” and Sandra Aamodt’s essay “Why You Can’t Lose Weight on a Diet”; consider the advantages of having disposable income to have access to Ozempic and similar drugs. Then write a 1,200-word argumentative essay that addresses the claim losing weight and keeping it off is based on an over-simplistic narrative about self-agency, nutrition literacy, and self-discipline, regardless of our economic standing. Is this story of “staying in shape” based in truth or a myth that obscures inconvenient facts? Does the story of free will and healthy eating obscure society’s capitalistic machine that conspires to get you sucked into the addictive Industrial Food Complex and then transition to the Diabetes-Management Complex? Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice B: Interrogating Fantasy Narratives of Amanda Knox and Elizabeth Holmes
Analyze the witch-hunt-like persecution in the Netflix documentary Amanda Knox in which a young woman is victimized by a misogynistic legal system and a media enterprise that relies on misogynistic fantasies to sell a murder trial as salacious entertainment. Then analyze the rise and fall of grifter Elizabeth Holmes in the HBO Max documentary The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley in which Holmes sells herself as a Steve Jobs-like super tech savior come to save the world. Then write a 1,200-word essay titled, “Fantasies of the Femme Fatale Archetype and the Tech Super Savior" in which you explore the way fantasies misled the public, resulting in mass deception, chaos, injustice, and ruined lives. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can include the assigned movies as 2 of the sources.
Choice C: Interrogating the Story America Tells the Young Generation
Best-selling author and professor Scott Galloway is an expert at using ethos, pathos, and logos to support his arguments. To understand these ideas, watch the YouTube video “Rhetorical Appeals: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.” Bearing these ideas in mind, evaluate Galloway’s critique of American society. He argues in his Ted Talk video “How the US Is Destroying Young People’s Future” that America tells the young generation a wonderful story about achieving success: The young generation should play by the rules, go to college, and attain the American dream. However, Galloway exposes this story as a cruel and cowardly lie. According to Scott Galloway’s blog essay “War on the Young,” America is not a country in which the older generation is helping the younger generation by paving a path to success. Instead, the older generation is hoarding all the money and has essentially “waged war against the young.” He says in his Ted Talk video that social media maven Mark Zuckerberg has harmed young people more than any figure in American history. Moreover, young men are being marginalized to a degree that is dangerous to not just them but to society as a whole. He expounds on these points in his blog essay “Boys to Men” and in his Bill Maher appearance on YouTube “Why Are Men in Crisis?” In a 1,200-word essay, evaluate the persuasiveness of Galloway’s Ted Talk video “How the US Is Destroying Young People’s Future” and his essay “War on the Young” as a “master class” in the use of ethos, pathos, and logos. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources.
How to Outline Choice C:
In paragraph 1, write a 250-word paragraph that summarizes the ways the older generation is stealing wealth from the young generation.
In paragraph 2, write a 250-word paragraph that summarizes the prescriptions Galloway offers for helping the young generation get back on the right track.
In paragraph 3, write a thesis that addresses the claim that Scott Galloway in his essay and video uses ethos, pathos, and logos to strengthen the persuasion of his argument.
In paragraph 4, write a 200-word paragraph that focuses on Galloway’s use of ethos and give examples from his presentation using signal phrases, direct quotes, and paraphrases.
In paragraph 5, write a 200-word paragraph that focuses on Galloway’s use of pathos and give examples from his presentation and essay using signal phrases, direct quotes, and paragraphs. Consider the way he summons emotion by looking at the boomer generation’s greed and the abandonment of loving our children. Also, consider the way Galloway discusses his personal life to create pathos.
In paragraph 6, write a 200-word paragraph that focuses on Galloway’s use of logos and give examples from his presentation and essay using signal phrases, direct quotes, and paraphrases.
In paragraph 7, your conclusion, rephrase your thesis in powerful emotional language.
Your last page will be an MLA-format Works Cited page with a minimum of 2 sources.
1C Essay 2: Exploring the Maudlin Disposition as a Form of Moral Depravity and an Impediment to Happiness
Interrogating the Maudlin Condition as a Form of Moral Depravity and an Impediment to Happiness
Choice A: “Winter Dreams” and “Gooseberries”
Addressing the quest for a happy and moral soul, Cicero in his Tusculan Disputations observes that the soul must be “tranquilized by restraint and consistency.” In such a state, the soul “neither pines away in distress, nor is broken down by fear, nor consumed with a thirst of longing in pursuit of some ambition, nor maudlin in the exuberance of meaningless eagerness--he is the wise man of whom we are in quest, he is the happy man.” Therefore, we can conclude that unhappiness and misery are the result of the maudlin disposition, which we can define as having the “exuberance of meaningless eagerness”--investing our emotions in false paths: idolizing people, things, and pleasure and investing our hopes in false cures or fraudulent panaceas for our ailments. The maudlin person invests so much emotion and thought in these meaningless enthusiasms that they cannot engage and connect in the real world with any meaning or coherence. Disconnected from life and others, the maudlin person seeks refuge in fantasies of the perfect life. The therapist and author Phil Stutz calls this imagined perfect life a “Moment Frozen in Time.” Constantly craving these Moments Frozen in Time, the maudlin person becomes drunk and intoxicated by these fantasies of perfection while real life passes them by. Unable to engage the real world or find meaningful connections with others, the maudlin person retreats into a world of
excessive, drunken and foolish sentimentality for anything that has been elevated to something undeserving of such excessive emotion. Therefore, to be a maudlin person is to be fragile, weak, immature, and unhinged because to be maudlin is to be disconnected from reality and from other people. To be in this state of disconnection and loneliness, maudlin people rely on their excessive sentimentality and misguided affections to compensate and escape from their miserable loneliness and disconnection. Another egregious flaw of the maudlin person is that they confuse the object or idea of their maudlin emotions with reality when in fact the cause of their sentimentality is a mirage or a chimera. Therefore, we can conclude that maudlin people are disoriented, unhinged, weak, fragile souls who console themselves feebly with their hollow sentimentality, anguish, and regret. All the while, they retreat more and more into Moments Frozen in Time. In the context of the maudlin personality type, write a 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that the two fictional characters Dexter Green in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story “Winter Dreams” and Nicholai Ivanich in Anton Chekhov’s short story “Gooseberries” have squandered their time on Earth, have retreated into Moments Frozen in Time, aggrandized themselves into vainglorious narcissists, and disconnected themselves from the meaningful relationships that are necessary for a happy and fulfilled life because they have succumbed to the maudlin condition in which they have lavished excessive emotion for false idols, be they people or things. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with a minimum of 4 sources.
Choice B: Uncut Gems and Private Life
Addressing the quest for a happy and moral soul, Cicero in his Tusculan Disputations observes that the soul must be “tranquilized by restraint and consistency.” In such a state, the soul “neither pines away in distress, nor is broken down by fear, nor consumed with a thirst of longing in pursuit of some ambition, nor maudlin in the exuberance of meaningless eagerness--he is the wise man of whom we are in quest, he is the happy man.” Therefore, we can conclude that unhappiness and misery are the result of the maudlin disposition, which we can define as having the “exuberance of meaningless eagerness”--investing our emotions in false paths: idolizing people, things, and pleasure and investing our hopes in false cures or fraudulent panaceas for our ailments. The maudlin person invests so much emotion and thought in these meaningless enthusiasms that they cannot engage and connect in the real world with any meaning or coherence. Disconnected from life and others, the maudlin person seeks refuge in fantasies of the perfect life. The therapist and author Phil Stutz calls this imagined perfect life a “Moment Frozen in Time.” Constantly craving these Moments Frozen in Time, the maudlin person becomes drunk and intoxicated by these fantasies of perfection while real life passes them by. Unable to engage the real world or find meaningful connections with others, the maudlin person retreats into a world of
excessive, drunken and foolish sentimentality for anything that has been elevated to something undeserving of such excessive emotion. Therefore, to be a maudlin person is to be fragile, weak, immature, and unhinged because to be maudlin is to be disconnected from reality and from other people. To be in this state of disconnection and loneliness, maudlin people rely on their excessive sentimentality and misguided affections to compensate and escape from their miserable loneliness and disconnection. Another egregious flaw of the maudlin person is that they confuse the object or idea of their maudlin emotions with reality when in fact the cause of their sentimentality is a mirage or a chimera. Therefore, we can conclude that maudlin people are disoriented, unhinged, weak, fragile souls who console themselves feebly with their hollow sentimentality, anguish, and regret. All the while, they retreat more and more into Moments Frozen in Time. In the context of the maudlin personality type, write a 1,200-word essay that compares the maudlin disposition of Howard Ratner from the movie Uncut Gems, as a man overcome with excessive love for a gem that he believes will heal his wounded masculinity, with the couple from the movie Private Life who have excessive zeal to have a child as a way of healing their wounded marriage. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with a minimum of 4 sources.
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1C Essay 2: Exploring the Difference Between Centripetal and Centrifugal Character Development
The Purpose of Essay 2
The purpose of Essay 2 is to analyze the causes behind centripetal and centrifugal character development in the context of stories, comedy routines, and movies. Centripetal character development can be defined as a character beginning with a maladaptive character trait at the beginning of the story or movie. As the story or movie progresses, the character’s undesirable personality traits intensify more and more until they are consumed by their inner psychological malignancy. In contrast, centrifugal character development can be defined as a character having limitations and impediments to their moral growth at the beginning of the story or movie. As the character engages with conflicts in the story or movie, they go through a transformation so that they are radically changed, usually for the better. The college narrative, for example, is implicitly centrifugal. Students enter college at a beginning stage of academic life and when they graduate they have ascended several rungs to a stage in which they can achieve more independence. They have “forged a life on their own.”
Choice A: “Winter Dreams” and Magical Thinking
Analyzing the therapist and best-selling author Phil Stutz's notion of magical thinking, write a 1,200-word essay that analyzes the manner in which Dexter Green from the short story “Winter Dreams” squanders his existence by obsessing over his all-consuming chimera Judy Jones. As a result of his fixation, he is stuck in a state of centripetal character development. Because this essay is an analysis and not an argument, there is no counterargument-rebuttal section. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can use my Canvas modules for your sources.
Choice B: “Winter Dreams” and Homecoming King: Centripetal Vs. Centrifugal Character Development
Centripetal character development can be defined as a character beginning with a maladaptive character trait at the beginning of the story or movie. As the story or movie progresses, the character’s undesirable personality traits intensify more and more until he is consumed by his inner psychological malignancy. In contrast, centrifugal character development can be defined as a character having limitations and impediments to his moral growth at the beginning of the story or movie. As the character engages with conflicts in the story or movie, he goes through a transformation so that he is a radically changed man, usually for the better. In this context, write a 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that “Winter Dreams” by F. Scott Fitzgerald and the Netflix comedy special Homecoming King present us with radically different iterations of grand ambition. Analyze the causes behind Dexter Green’s ambition as a source of his centripetal character development. Then analyze Hasan Minhaj’s ambition and changing attitudes toward Bethany Reed as a study in centrifugal character development. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can use my Canvas modules as sources.
Choice C: Comparing Ambition in “Winter Dreams” with the 3-Part Docuseries Arnold:
Centripetal character development can be defined as a character beginning with a maladaptive character trait at the beginning of the story or movie. As the story or movie progresses, the character’s undesirable personality traits intensify more and more until he is consumed by his inner psychological malignancy. In contrast, centrifugal character development can be defined as a character having limitations and impediments to his moral growth at the beginning of the story or movie. As the character engages with conflicts in the story or movie, he goes through a transformation so that he is a radically changed man, usually for the better. In this context, write a 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that “Winter Dreams” by F. Scott Fitzgerald and the Netflix documentary Arnold present us with radically different iterations of grand ambition. Analyze the causes behind Dexter Green’s ambition as a source of his centripetal character development. Then analyze Arnold Schwarzenegger’s ambition as a study in centrifugal character development. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can use my Canvas modules as sources.
1C Essay 3: The Manipulation of Young People
The Purpose of Essay 3:
You will be evaluating social influencers who peddle paranoid notions of “anxiety” and “trauma” and fashion companies who peddle FOMO and body dysmorphia to manipulate, control, and exploit young people.
Choice A: FOMO and the Manipulation of Young People
Read Derek Thompson’s essay “How Anxiety Became Content” and watch the documentary Brandy Hellville and the Cult of Fast Fashion (HBO Max). Then 1,200-word essay that addresses the way the essay and the documentary show how young people are manipulated by FOMO (fear of missing out), a pathologized notion of anxiety, a pathologized notion of fashion, herd behavior, peer pressure, social status, and how the marketing of extremes is used to exploit, manipulate, and abuse young people. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can use my Canvas modules as sources.
For paragraph 1, write about how you were once manipulated into doing something as a result of desiring belonging, social status, and FOMO.
For paragraph 2, summarize the major points in Thompson’s essay and the documentary.
For paragraph 3, your all-important thesis paragraph, write a claim that compares the manner in which social influencers market exaggerated maladies and Brandy Melville markets pathologized fashion resulting in a toxic, self-destructive culture.
In terms of structure, your thesis might look something like this:
“How Anxiety Became Content” and Brandy Hellville expose a toxic culture that manipulates and exploits young people by unscrupulously relying on _________________, _________________, _________________, and _____________________________, _________________________
Your body paragraphs, 4-8, would expound on the mapping components represented by the blank spaces that follow the above thesis structure.
Because this essay is analyzing the causes of toxic culture and is more of an analysis essay than it is argumentative, there is no counterargument-rebuttal section.
Paragraph 9, your conclusion, is a powerful restatement of your thesis.
Your last page is your Works Cited page in MLA format. You need 4 sources, the documentary, Thompson’s essay, and at least one of my modules from Canvas.
Choice B Consumer Body Shaming
Comparing the documentaries Brandy Hellville and the Cult of Fast Fashion (HBO Max) and White Hot: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie & Fitch (Netflix), write 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that both documentaries expose the way young people are manipulated by a cult-like culture of toxicity, body shaming, racially-biased beauty standards, and exploitation. Be sure to have an MLA-format Works Cited page with 4 sources.
Choice C The Snakeoil of the Liver King
In a 1,200-word essay, analyze the ways the fallen social media star the Liver King persuaded and manipulated his audience into believing in his lies, buying his supplements, and making him a rich social media mogul. Be sure to have an MLA-format Works Cited page with 4 sources.
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1C Essay 4 Cultural Appreciation Vs. Cultural Appropriation
The Purpose of Essay 4:
We will explore the idea that when we embrace cultural appreciation, such as the deep love for Mexican food, inevitably that appreciation will cross the line into appropriation.
Choice A
For choice A, our fourth essay will be a 1,200-word argumentative essay that defends, refutes, or complicates food and culture writer Gustavo Arellano’s claim in his essay “Let White People Appropriate Mexican Food” and elsewhere that in the realm of food, especially Mexican food, we must step away from the Cult of Authenticity and embrace the idea that the greatness of Mexican food is related to its constant evolution from stealing, borrowing, synthesizing, and even culturally appropriating from one ethnic culture to another and that cuisines that fail to evolve lack relevance and vitality.
Sample Outline:
Paragraph 1: Summarize the main ideas in the article by Gustavo Arellano titled “Let White People Appropriate Mexican Food.” Or summarize the main ideas in the YouTube video “Cultural Appropriation Tastes Damn Good.”
Paragraph 2: Then transition to an argumentative claim in which you show support or repudiation of Arellano’s main ideas.
Paragraphs 3-6 would be your supporting paragraphs.
Paragraphs 7 and 8 would be your counterargument-rebuttal.
Paragraph 9 would be a powerful restatement of your thesis, which is your conclusion.
Your last page would be your Works Cited page in MLA format and a minimum of 4 sources.
Choice B: American Chinese Food
Based on the Ian Cheney documentary The Search for General Tso and the essays “Who’s Afraid of Chop Suey” by Charles W. Hayford, “More Than ‘Just Takeout’” by Cathy Erway, “‘Not Real Chinese’: Why American Chinese Food Deserves Our Respect” by Kelley Kwok, and “Searching for America with General Tso” by Jiayang Fan, write a 1,200-word argumentative essay that addresses the claim that to scorn American Chinese food as a betrayal of authentic Chinese food is an oversimplification that overlooks the complications and contradictions of American Chinese food, which is really a story about surviving racism and xenophobia, overcoming economic struggle, and establishing a strong and pervasive cultural influence.
Choice C: Appropriating Authentic Human Experience to Entertain Others
Megan Garber’s 2017 Atlantic essay “Are We Having Too Much Fun?” revisits a “prescient” classic: Neil Postman’s book Amusing Ourselves to Death. In her essay, Garber writes the following:
“Postman today is best remembered as a critic of television: That’s the medium he directly blamed, in Amusing Ourselves to Death, for what he termed Americans’ “vast descent into triviality,” and the technology he saw as both the cause and the outcome of a culture that privileged entertainment above all else. But Postman was a critic of more than TV alone. He mistrusted entertainment, not as a situation but as a political tool; he worried that Americans’ great capacity for distraction had compromised their ability to think, and to want, for themselves. He resented the tyranny of the lol. His great observation, and his great warning, was a newly relevant kind of bummer: There are dangers that can come with having too much fun.”
In 2023, Megan Garber returns to the themes in Neil Postman’s book in her essay “We’ve Lost the Plot.” In her essay, she addresses the forces behind a “post-truth society”--weaponized misinformation, distrust in major institutions, and an addiction to “unlimited entertainment” that blurs the line between fantasy and reality. In “We’ve Lost the Plot,” Garber writes about how what we expect from human beings has changed in the age of entertainment and social media. Garber writes:
“By the mid-20th century, the historian Warren Susman argued, a great shift was taking place. American values had traditionally emphasized a collection of qualities we might shorthand as “character”: honesty, diligence, an abiding sense of duty. The rise of mass media changed those terms, Susman wrote. In the media-savvy and consumption-oriented society that Americans were building, people came to value—and therefore demand—what Susman called “personality”: charm, likability, the talent to entertain. “The social role demanded of all in the new Culture of Personality was that of a performer,” Susman wrote. “Every American was to become a performing self.”
These warnings of society’s addiction to the “performing self” and the ensuing dehumanization that occurs are rendered in the movies Network, The Truman Show, and The Social Dilemma. Write a 1,200-word essay that addresses the claim that the movies Network, The Truman Show, and The Social Dilemma illustrate that to curate a performative self and appropriate authentic experience to entertain others is destroying a healthy liberal democracy and replacing it with a “post-truth” dystopia. For your sources, use the aforementioned movies and two Megan Garber essays. Be sure to include an MLA-format Works Cited page.
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For 1A Social Media Unit
The Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma shows how we are manipulated and dehumanized so that metaphorically we turn into zombies with our brains intoxicated by the liquor of cheap dopamine. Write a 1,200 word essay that shows how The Social Dilemma compares this zombie state to that of the virus in the 2013 movie World War Z. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can use my Canvas modules as sources.
Sample Outline:
Paragraph 1: Summarize the ways we become dehumanized by social media according to The Social Dilemma.
Paragraph 2, your thesis: Argue that the "zombie state" in The Social Dilemma compares to the 2013 movie World War Z in 5 ways, making the movie an allegory of a global digital society dissolved into mindless chaos as the result of a pandemic.
Paragraphs 3-7, your body paragraphs expound on the comparison points.
Paragraph 8, your conclusion, is a dramatic restatement of your thesis.
For comparison ideas, I put the following prompt in ChatGPT:
The documentary The Social Dilemma shows how we are manipulated and dehumanized so that metaphorically we turn into zombies. Present 5 ways The Social Dilemma compares this zombie state to that of the virus in the 2013 movie World War Z.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
"The Social Dilemma" and "World War Z" both offer chilling perspectives on the loss of agency and autonomy within society. Here are five ways they compare the metaphorical zombie state portrayed in both narratives:
- Infectious Behavior Spread: Just as the virus spreads rapidly in "World War Z," the addictive and manipulative algorithms portrayed in "The Social Dilemma" spread throughout society, infecting individuals with behaviors that mimic those around them. Much like how the virus in the movie turns people into mindless zombies, the addictive nature of social media algorithms can turn users into passive consumers, devoid of critical thinking skills.
- Loss of Individuality: In "World War Z," individuals lose their sense of self and become part of a mindless horde. Similarly, "The Social Dilemma" depicts how social media platforms gather vast amounts of personal data to tailor content and advertisements, leading to a loss of individuality as users are bombarded with targeted messaging designed to influence their thoughts and behaviors.
- Mob Mentality and Groupthink: Both narratives explore the dangers of mob mentality and groupthink. In "World War Z," the infected move as a single, frenzied mass, while in "The Social Dilemma," online communities can become echo chambers where dissenting voices are silenced, leading to a collective mindset that stifles critical thinking and reinforces polarized viewpoints.
- Manipulation by External Forces: In "World War Z," the virus manipulates individuals to serve its own destructive purposes. Similarly, "The Social Dilemma" reveals how social media platforms manipulate user behavior to maximize engagement and profit, often at the expense of users' well-being and autonomy.
- Struggle for Control: Both narratives depict a struggle for control over one's own mind and actions. In "World War Z," survivors fight to maintain their humanity amidst the chaos of the zombie apocalypse. Likewise, "The Social Dilemma" highlights the importance of awareness and critical thinking in resisting the manipulative tactics employed by social media platforms to control users' attention and behavior.
These comparisons underscore the powerful parallels between the metaphorical zombie state portrayed in "The Social Dilemma" and the viral outbreak in "World War Z," both of which serve as cautionary tales about the dangers of relinquishing control to external forces.
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Variation of the Above with COVID Pandemic Factor Added
The documentary The Social Dilemma shows how we are manipulated and dehumanized so that metaphorically we turn into zombies. This dehumanization worsened during the COVID pandemic when we fell deeper down various social media platforms. Present 5 ways The Social Dilemma compares this zombie state to that of the virus in the 2013 movie World War Z and the zombie state during the COVID pandemic.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
Certainly, "The Social Dilemma" offers a compelling narrative on how social media platforms manipulate users and foster a sense of detachment from reality, akin to a metaphorical "zombie" state. Here are five ways this comparison can be drawn between the themes explored in "The Social Dilemma," the zombie apocalypse depicted in "World War Z," and the societal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Contagious Behavior: Just as the virus spreads rapidly in "World War Z," the addictive nature of social media content spreads swiftly among users, influencing their behavior and thoughts. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this spread was exacerbated as people spent more time online, leading to a proliferation of misinformation and echo chambers that further detached individuals from reality.
- Loss of Autonomy: In both scenarios, individuals lose their autonomy and become slaves to their impulses. In "The Social Dilemma," algorithms tailor content to manipulate user behavior, while in "World War Z," the infected lose control of their actions to the virus. Similarly, during the pandemic, excessive reliance on social media led to a loss of critical thinking skills and independent decision-making as individuals became consumed by online narratives.
- Dehumanization: The dehumanization of individuals is a central theme in both narratives. In "World War Z," the infected lose their humanity as they succumb to the virus, while in "The Social Dilemma," users are reduced to data points and targeted for profit without regard for their well-being. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the depersonalization of individuals online contributed to polarization and divisiveness, further eroding empathy and understanding.
- Erosion of Social Fabric: Both scenarios illustrate the erosion of societal norms and institutions. In "World War Z," the collapse of governments and social order leads to chaos and anarchy, while in "The Social Dilemma," the breakdown of authentic human connections in favor of virtual interactions undermines social cohesion. Similarly, the isolation and disconnection fostered by the pandemic exacerbated feelings of alienation and distrust within communities.
- Overcoming the Threat: Despite the bleakness of their respective situations, both narratives offer hope for redemption. In "World War Z," the protagonist seeks a cure to halt the spread of the virus and restore humanity, while in "The Social Dilemma," awareness of the manipulative tactics employed by social media platforms sparks a movement for change. Likewise, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to combat misinformation and promote digital literacy have emerged as crucial steps towards reclaiming agency and rebuilding trust in online spaces.
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Show 5 ways the virus in the 2013 World War Z is a metaphor for the kind of mental virus that is dehumanizing us as explored in Jonathan Haidt's essay "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid."
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
Certainly, here are five ways in which the virus depicted in the 2013 novel "World War Z" serves as a metaphor for the kind of mental virus that dehumanizes individuals, as explored in Jonathan Haidt's essay "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid":
- Infectious Spread and Polarization:
- The virus in "World War Z" spreads rapidly and indiscriminately, infecting individuals across all demographics.
- Similarly, the ideological "viruses" discussed by Haidt, such as political polarization and tribalism, have spread widely in American society, leading to increased division and animosity between different groups.
- Loss of Individuality and Groupthink:
- Once infected in "World War Z," individuals lose their sense of self and individuality, becoming mindless drones driven solely by the virus's agenda.
- Likewise, Haidt observes a trend towards conformity and groupthink in modern American society, where individuals adhere rigidly to ideological narratives at the expense of critical thinking and independent judgment.
- Dehumanization and Othering:
- Infected individuals in "World War Z" lose their humanity, viewing non-infected humans as "other" and often resorting to violence against them.
- Similarly, Haidt discusses how ideological polarization has led to dehumanization of political opponents, with individuals demonizing those who hold different beliefs as enemies rather than fellow citizens.
- Erosion of Empathy and Compassion:
- The virus in "World War Z" erodes empathy and compassion among infected individuals, leading to acts of cruelty and violence against others.
- Similarly, Haidt highlights how ideological "viruses" can diminish empathy and compassion in society, as individuals prioritize loyalty to their group over concern for the well-being of others.
- Destructive Consequences and Societal Collapse:
- In "World War Z," the spread of the virus ultimately leads to societal collapse, with widespread chaos, violence, and loss of life.
- Similarly, Haidt warns of the destructive consequences of unchecked ideological polarization, including societal breakdown and the erosion of democratic norms and institutions.
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The 2013 movie World War Z is not just a prophecy about the Covid pandemic. It’s a prophecy about how the Covid pandemic put people in an internet crucible in which they got drunk on the liquor of cheap dopamine and were dehumanized and “zombified.” Present 7 examples of how this aforementioned prophecy was fulfilled.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
Comparing the themes of "World War Z" to the dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic reveals several striking parallels, showcasing how the film's portrayal of a global crisis resonates with aspects of our contemporary reality. Here are seven examples illustrating how the prophecy was fulfilled:
- Information Overload and Panic: In "World War Z," the rapid spread of the zombie virus leads to widespread panic and misinformation. Similarly, during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the flood of conflicting information and rumors on social media platforms contributed to heightened anxiety and confusion among the public.
- Dopamine-driven Behavior: The film portrays individuals succumbing to impulsive and reckless behavior in their pursuit of survival, often driven by the adrenaline rush of facing imminent danger. Similarly, during the pandemic, people turned to social media and online entertainment as a form of escapism, seeking instant gratification and dopamine hits through likes, shares, and viral content.
- Dehumanization and Polarization: As society grapples with the zombie outbreak in "World War Z," there is a breakdown of social cohesion, leading to the dehumanization of both infected and uninfected individuals. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing societal divisions, fueling hostility and polarization between those advocating for public health measures and those resisting them.
- Digital Echo Chambers: The internet serves as a breeding ground for conspiracy theories and extremist ideologies in the film, amplifying fear and distrust among the population. Similarly, the pandemic fueled the proliferation of misinformation and conspiracy theories online, leading to the formation of echo chambers where individuals reinforce their preexisting beliefs without critical evaluation.
- Economic Disruption and Inequality: "World War Z" portrays the collapse of global economies and widespread unemployment as a consequence of the zombie outbreak. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered significant economic disruption, exacerbating inequalities and disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations, including low-income workers and marginalized communities.
- Governmental Response and Accountability: The film depicts the challenges governments face in coordinating an effective response to the crisis amidst bureaucratic inefficiencies and political infighting. Similarly, the pandemic exposed shortcomings in governmental preparedness and response, leading to debates over accountability and the effectiveness of public health measures.
- Resilience and Adaptation: Despite the chaos and devastation depicted in "World War Z," the film also highlights humanity's capacity for resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic has inspired acts of solidarity and innovation, as communities come together to support one another and adapt to new ways of living and working in a post-pandemic world.
By examining these parallels between "World War Z" and the COVID-19 pandemic, we can gain insights into the societal and psychological challenges posed by global crises and the importance of resilience, solidarity, and critical thinking in navigating uncertain times.
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Compare 7 points of dehumanization in the Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma and Jonathan Haidt's essay "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid."
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
Certainly, let's compare seven points of dehumanization evident in both "The Social Dilemma" and Jonathan Haidt's essay "Why the Past 10 Years of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid."
- Surveillance and Manipulation:
- In "The Social Dilemma," social media platforms surveil users' behavior and manipulate their feeds to maximize engagement and profit.
- Haidt's essay touches on how social media algorithms prioritize sensationalist content, fueling outrage and division for clicks and views. This manipulation undermines genuine discourse and fosters polarization.
- Algorithmic Bias:
- "The Social Dilemma" discusses how algorithms reinforce biases by showing users content that aligns with their existing beliefs, leading to echo chambers.
- Haidt highlights how social media amplifies tribalism by presenting selective information, perpetuating stereotypes, and eroding empathy for those with differing viewpoints.
- Addiction and Dopamine Response:
- Both the documentary and Haidt's essay explore how social media platforms exploit users' psychological vulnerabilities to foster addiction and drive engagement.
- They both argue that the constant dopamine hits from likes, shares, and notifications can lead to diminished attention spans and addictive behavior, dehumanizing individuals by reducing them to mere sources of attention.
- Mental Health Impact:
- "The Social Dilemma" discusses the detrimental effects of social media on mental health, including increased rates of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
- Haidt's essay suggests that the constant exposure to negative news and outrage culture on social media contributes to a culture of fear and pessimism, dehumanizing individuals by undermining their sense of security and well-being.
- Loss of Authenticity:
- Both "The Social Dilemma" and Haidt's essay argue that social media encourages individuals to present curated, idealized versions of themselves, leading to a loss of authenticity and genuine connection.
- They suggest that this emphasis on perfection and comparison dehumanizes individuals by eroding their sense of identity and self-worth.
- Polarization and Tribalism:
- Both sources explore how social media exacerbates societal divisions by amplifying extreme viewpoints and fostering tribalistic behavior.
- They argue that this polarization dehumanizes individuals by reducing complex issues to simplistic narratives and fostering hostility towards those with differing opinions.
- Manipulation of Reality:
- "The Social Dilemma" highlights how social media distorts reality by promoting curated images and narratives, leading to unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy.
- Haidt's essay suggests that the constant exposure to sensationalist news and viral misinformation on social media blurs the line between fact and fiction, undermining trust in institutions and dehumanizing individuals by eroding their sense of reality.
These comparisons illustrate how both "The Social Dilemma" and Haidt's essay identify various forms of dehumanization perpetuated by social media and its impact on society.
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To truly understand African-American history, we must look to Frederick Douglass whose writings were designed to uplift the oppressed from what Jordan Peele calls The Sunken Place. In this context, provide 7 examples to support the claim that teaching about the life of Frederick Douglass is a way of learning about racial injustice that embodies the importance of helping others rise above the Sunken Place, bearing witness to the truth, embracing individual self-agency to resist societal injustice, fighting to redeem America, and championing the wisdom of the Ancients for our continual self-improvement.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
- Uplifting the Oppressed: Frederick Douglass's life story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for those facing oppression. Born into slavery, Douglass endured unimaginable hardships but ultimately liberated himself through education and activism. His narrative demonstrates the transformative power of knowledge and self-determination, inspiring generations to rise above adversity.
- Escaping the Sunken Place: Jordan Peele's concept of "The Sunken Place" in his film "Get Out" symbolizes a state of psychological captivity and subjugation. Douglass's writings, particularly his autobiographies like "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave," provide a roadmap for breaking free from societal constraints and reclaiming one's agency. By sharing his experiences, Douglass invites readers to confront the reality of oppression and challenge systems of injustice.
- Bearing Witness to Truth: Douglass was a fearless truth-teller who exposed the brutal realities of slavery and racism. His speeches and writings, such as his famous Fourth of July address, unflinchingly confronted America's hypocrisy and demanded justice for all people. Studying Douglass's work enables students to confront uncomfortable truths about the nation's past while inspiring them to advocate for a more equitable future.
- Embracing Individual Self-Agency: Despite facing insurmountable odds, Douglass refused to succumb to despair or resignation. Instead, he seized every opportunity to assert his humanity and challenge the status quo. Through his actions, Douglass exemplified the power of individual agency in effecting meaningful change. His life teaches us that even in the face of overwhelming oppression, each person possesses the capacity to resist and overcome.
- Fighting to Redeem America: Douglass believed in the promise of America, even as he condemned its failures to live up to its ideals. He tirelessly advocated for the abolition of slavery, suffrage for women, and equal rights for all citizens. Douglass's activism embodied the belief that America could only fulfill its potential by confronting its history of injustice and striving towards a more inclusive society.
- Championing the Wisdom of the Ancients: Douglass was a voracious reader and intellectual who drew inspiration from classical literature and philosophy. His speeches often referenced ancient Greek and Roman thinkers, demonstrating his appreciation for the timeless wisdom found in their writings. By integrating these insights into his advocacy, Douglass emphasized the universality of human rights and the enduring relevance of moral principles across cultures and epochs.
- Continual Self-Improvement: Douglass's life was a testament to the power of continual self-improvement and lifelong learning. Despite achieving remarkable success as an abolitionist leader, he remained humble and committed to personal growth. Douglass's journey from bondage to freedom illustrates the transformative potential of education and self-reflection. By studying his life and legacy, students are encouraged to embark on their own paths of discovery and self-empowerment.
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During the COVID pandemic, society became even more polarized, radicalized, and open to grand conspiracies. The accretion of these developments had a dehumanizing effect on people. Elaborate on these themes by comparing 7 points of dehumanization resulting from the COVID pandemic to the "zombification" and world chaos evident in the 2013 movie World War Z.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
In the crucible of the COVID-19 pandemic, societal fissures deepened, fostering a landscape ripe for polarization, radicalization, and the proliferation of grand conspiracies. This tumultuous terrain was not merely a stage for ideological clashes but also an arena where the human essence seemed to erode, giving rise to a disturbing array of dehumanizing phenomena. Drawing parallels to the "zombification" and global chaos depicted in the 2013 film "World War Z," we can discern seven points of convergence where the dehumanizing effects of the pandemic echo the chaos of a world overrun by the undead:
- Othering and Stigmatization: Just as survivors in "World War Z" faced the dehumanizing reality of viewing their infected counterparts as soulless threats, the pandemic exacerbated tendencies to "other" and stigmatize certain groups. Whether through scapegoating ethnic minorities, vilifying frontline workers, or ostracizing those who contracted the virus, societies witnessed a troubling surge in dehumanizing rhetoric and behavior.
- Information Warfare and Disinformation: In both the pandemic reality and the fictional world of "World War Z," the dissemination of misinformation and propaganda fueled confusion and fear. Just as the spread of false narratives in the movie led to societal breakdown, the deluge of conspiracy theories and misleading information during the pandemic undermined trust in institutions, eroding the bonds of shared reality and fostering a climate of suspicion and paranoia.
- Erosion of Empathy and Solidarity: The breakdown of social cohesion portrayed in "World War Z" finds parallels in the erosion of empathy and solidarity witnessed during the pandemic. As individuals and communities grappled with the strain of lockdowns, economic hardship, and loss, empathy fatigue set in, giving way to a callous indifference to the suffering of others and a prioritization of self-preservation over collective well-being.
- Weaponization of Fear and Anxiety: Just as fear served as a potent weapon in the arsenal of those seeking to exploit chaos in "World War Z," the pandemic provided fertile ground for the weaponization of fear and anxiety. From political leaders leveraging public anxiety to advance their agendas to extremist groups capitalizing on societal unrest to recruit new adherents, fear became a tool for manipulation, further fracturing society along ideological fault lines.
- Dehumanization in Digital Spaces: The digital realm, portrayed as a battleground for survival in "World War Z," mirrored the pandemic's digital landscape, where dehumanization flourished unchecked. Online echo chambers amplified extremist views, while the anonymity afforded by screens emboldened individuals to unleash vitriol and hate with impunity, further eroding the boundaries of civil discourse and empathy.
- Economic Exploitation and Inequality: In both the pandemic reality and the apocalyptic world of "World War Z," economic disparities deepened, exacerbating existing inequalities and widening the chasm between the haves and the have-nots. As corporations capitalized on crisis-driven demand and governments prioritized economic recovery over social welfare, marginalized communities bore the brunt of exploitation and neglect, their humanity reduced to mere collateral in the pursuit of profit.
- Desensitization to Violence and Suffering: Finally, just as the relentless onslaught of zombie hordes in "World War Z" desensitized survivors to violence and suffering, the relentless barrage of grim statistics and harrowing images during the pandemic threatened to numb societies to the human toll of the crisis. As the death toll climbed and scenes of despair became commonplace, there was a risk of succumbing to a collective desensitization, where human tragedy became little more than background noise in the daily cacophony of news cycles.
In essence, the COVID-19 pandemic and the dystopian chaos of "World War Z" serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the fragility of our humanity in the face of existential threats. By recognizing and confronting the dehumanizing forces at play, we can strive to rebuild a society grounded in empathy, solidarity, and a shared commitment to preserving our common humanity.
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Present 7 ways the Liver King manipulated his audience into following his so-called "ancestral living."
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
The Liver King's tactics for persuading his audience to embrace his concept of "ancestral living" were multifaceted and manipulative. Here are seven ways he likely achieved this:
- Appeal to Nostalgia: The Liver King likely tapped into a sense of nostalgia for a simpler, supposedly healthier past, suggesting that modern lifestyles have deviated from our ancestral roots. By invoking this nostalgia, he created a longing for a time perceived as more authentic and natural.
- Fearmongering: Exploiting common fears about health and well-being, the Liver King may have exaggerated the dangers of modern living, emphasizing the perceived toxins in processed foods, environmental pollutants, and sedentary lifestyles. Through fear, he could make his audience feel vulnerable and in need of his solution.
- Celebrity Endorsements: Leveraging endorsements from celebrities or influencers who have adopted his lifestyle could have lent credibility to his claims. By associating his ideas with well-known figures, he could sway followers who aspire to emulate their idols.
- Pseudoscientific Jargon: The Liver King likely employed scientific-sounding language to lend an air of authority to his claims, even if they lacked empirical evidence. By using terms like "ancestral living" or "biological optimization," he could create an illusion of expertise and legitimacy.
- Exclusive Community: Establishing a sense of belonging and exclusivity within his followers could have been another tactic. By framing his lifestyle as a unique and enlightened path, he fostered a sense of camaraderie among his followers while simultaneously distancing them from skeptics.
- Selective Evidence: The Liver King may have cherry-picked data or anecdotes that supported his narrative while ignoring contradictory evidence. By presenting a curated version of reality, he could reinforce his followers' beliefs and shield them from alternative viewpoints.
- Emotional Manipulation: Lastly, he likely appealed to emotions, promising not just physical health but also fulfillment, purpose, and connection to one's primal nature. By tapping into deep-seated desires for meaning and authenticity, he could keep his audience emotionally invested in his message.
By employing these manipulative tactics, the Liver King could have effectively persuaded his audience to embrace his version of "ancestral living" without critically examining its validity or considering alternative perspectives.
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Comparing Jordan Peele’s movie Get Out with Cord Jefferson’s movie American Fiction, provide 10 ways both films are a critique of white liberal condescension toward African Americans.
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ChatGPT
Both Jordan Peele's "Get Out" and Cord Jefferson's "American Fiction" offer poignant critiques of white liberal condescension toward African Americans, revealing complex layers of racial dynamics and power structures. Here are ten ways in which both films explore this theme:
- Superficial Acceptance: Both films depict white liberal characters who outwardly appear accepting and progressive but harbor underlying prejudices and stereotypes about African Americans. This superficial acceptance masks deeper forms of condescension and racism.
- Intellectualization of Racism: White liberal characters in both films often intellectualize racism, treating it as an abstract concept rather than acknowledging its tangible effects on African American lives. This intellectualization serves to distance themselves from the realities of racial oppression.
- Performative Allyship: Both "Get Out" and "American Fiction" critique the phenomenon of performative allyship, in which white liberals engage in symbolic gestures of support for African Americans without addressing systemic issues or actively challenging racism within their own communities.
- Gaslighting and Invalidating Experiences: White liberal characters in both films frequently gaslight African American protagonists, dismissing their experiences of racism or attributing them to paranoia. This gaslighting serves to invalidate the lived realities of African Americans and perpetuates a sense of condescension.
- White Savior Complex: Both films explore the white savior complex, in which white liberal characters position themselves as benevolent saviors or rescuers of African Americans, reinforcing paternalistic attitudes and undermining the agency of black individuals.
- Cultural Appropriation and Erasure: "Get Out" and "American Fiction" critique the appropriation of African American culture by white liberals, who often co-opt elements of black culture for their own gain while erasing the contributions and experiences of African Americans.
- Blindness to Intersectionality: White liberal characters in both films often fail to recognize the intersectionality of race with other forms of oppression, such as gender and class. This blindness to intersectionality reinforces a narrow understanding of racism and limits the scope of their activism.
- Selective Empathy: Both films highlight the selective empathy of white liberals, who may express sympathy or outrage in response to overt acts of racism but remain indifferent or complicit in addressing more subtle forms of discrimination and microaggressions.
- Tokenism and Exoticism: "Get Out" and "American Fiction" depict instances of tokenism and exoticism, in which white liberals tokenize African Americans as symbols of diversity or exotic "others" to be studied and admired, rather than engaging with them as equals.
- Failure to Listen and Amplify Voices: Finally, both films critique white liberal tendencies to dominate conversations about race, rather than listening to and amplifying the voices and perspectives of African Americans. This failure to listen perpetuates a cycle of condescension and silencing within racial discourse.
By examining these themes, both "Get Out" and "American Fiction" offer nuanced critiques of white liberal condescension toward African Americans, challenging viewers to interrogate their own complicity in perpetuating racial inequality.
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Provide 10 reasons to support the claim that when we adopt a food from another country or ethnicity, regardless of our good intentions the adoption of this food into our home culture will be a messy mix of cultural appreciation and cultural appropriation.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
Certainly, when we adopt a food from another country or ethnicity, even with the best intentions, the process often involves a complex mix of cultural appreciation and appropriation. Here are ten reasons to support this claim:
- Selective Borrowing: When we adopt a food from another culture, we often selectively choose certain aspects of the cuisine while ignoring or altering others. This selective borrowing can lead to a distortion of the original cultural context and meaning of the dish.
- Lack of Understanding: Often, when we adopt a foreign food, we may not fully understand its cultural significance, ingredients, or traditional preparation methods. This lack of understanding can result in unintentional misrepresentation or disrespect of the original cuisine.
- Commercialization: The adoption of foreign foods into mainstream culture often involves their commercialization for profit. This commercialization can strip away the cultural context and authenticity of the dish, turning it into a commodity divorced from its origins.
- Appropriation of Recipes: In some cases, when we adopt a food from another culture, we may appropriate the recipes or techniques without acknowledging or respecting the culinary traditions and knowledge of the original creators.
- Cultural Hegemony: The dominant culture may often appropriate foods from marginalized or minority cultures, further reinforcing power imbalances and perpetuating cultural hegemony. This can lead to the erasure or marginalization of the original creators of the cuisine.
- Colonial Legacy: The adoption of foreign foods into mainstream culture can be rooted in colonialism and imperialism, where the culinary practices of colonized peoples are appropriated and assimilated into the dominant culture without proper acknowledgment or respect.
- Stereotyping: When foreign foods are adopted into mainstream culture, they may become subject to stereotypes or caricatures that oversimplify or exoticize the cuisine and its associated culture, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.
- Cultural Hybridization: The adoption of foreign foods often leads to cultural hybridization, where elements of different culinary traditions are mixed together. While this can sometimes result in innovative and creative dishes, it can also dilute the authenticity and integrity of the original cuisines.
- Power Dynamics: The process of adopting foreign foods into mainstream culture is often influenced by power dynamics, where the dominant culture appropriates elements of marginalized or minority cultures without giving proper credit or recognition.
- Ethical Considerations: Ultimately, the adoption of foreign foods into our home culture requires careful consideration of the ethical implications, including issues of respect, recognition, and reciprocity towards the original creators and custodians of the cuisine.
By recognizing and grappling with these complexities, we can strive to engage in a more thoughtful and respectful approach to adopting foods from other cultures, acknowledging the inherent tensions between cultural appreciation and appropriation.
ChatGPT Prompt:
Based on the Ian Cheney documentary The Search for General Tso and the essays “Who’s Afraid of Chop Suey” by Charles W. Hayford, “More Than ‘Just Takeout’” by Cathy Erway, “‘Not Real Chinese’: Why American Chinese Food Deserves Our Respect” by Kelley Kwok, and “Searching for America with General Tso” by Jiayang Fan, present 10 arguments to support the claim that to scorn American Chinese food as a betrayal of authentic Chinese food is an oversimplification that overlooks the complications and contradictions of American Chinese food, which is really a story about facing racism, overcoming economic struggle, and establishing a strong and pervasive cultural influence.
Based on the Ian Cheney documentary The Search for General Tso and the essays “Who’s Afraid of Chop Suey” by Charles W. Hayford, “More Than ‘Just Takeout’” by Cathy Erway, “‘Not Real Chinese’: Why American Chinese Food Deserves Our Respect” by Kelley Kwok, and “Searching for America with General Tso” by Jiayang Fan, present 10 arguments to support the claim that to scorn American Chinese food as a betrayal of authentic Chinese food is an oversimplification that overlooks the complications and contradictions of American Chinese food, which is really a story about facing racism, overcoming economic struggle, and establishing a strong and pervasive cultural influence.
ChatGPT
ChatGPT
- Historical Context: American Chinese food emerged as a response to historical circumstances, including the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which limited Chinese immigration and forced Chinese immigrants to adapt their cuisine to appeal to American tastes.
- Cultural Adaptation: American Chinese food represents a fascinating fusion of Chinese culinary traditions with American ingredients and tastes, reflecting the adaptability and creativity of immigrant communities in the face of adversity.
- Economic Necessity: Chinese immigrants faced significant economic challenges in the United States, leading them to create affordable and accessible dishes that catered to a diverse clientele, thereby establishing a foothold in the restaurant industry.
- Racial Discrimination: The success of American Chinese food also speaks to the perseverance of Chinese immigrants in the face of racism and discrimination, as they navigated hostile environments to establish thriving businesses and communities.
- Innovation and Creativity: American Chinese food is not simply a copy of traditional Chinese cuisine but a product of innovation and adaptation, with dishes like General Tso's chicken and chop suey reflecting a blend of Chinese and American culinary influences.
- Cultural Influence: American Chinese food has had a profound impact on American culture, shaping the way Americans perceive and consume Chinese cuisine while also influencing broader food trends and culinary practices.
- Cultural Exchange: Rather than being a betrayal of authentic Chinese food, American Chinese cuisine represents a form of cultural exchange and hybridity, enriching both Chinese and American culinary traditions through cross-cultural pollination.
- Community Building: Chinese restaurants and food have served as focal points for Chinese communities in the United States, providing a sense of belonging and identity in the face of marginalization and discrimination.
- Consumer Preferences: The popularity of American Chinese food among both Chinese and non-Chinese consumers underscores its cultural significance and enduring appeal, challenging simplistic notions of authenticity and cultural purity.
- Complexity and Diversity: American Chinese food is a multifaceted and dynamic culinary tradition that defies easy categorization, encompassing a wide range of regional variations, cooking styles, and ingredients that reflect the diversity of Chinese cuisine and the diverse experiences of Chinese immigrants in America.
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Present 7 reasons to support the claim that the misinformation that fuels The Lost Cause as interrogated by Clint Smith’s essay “Why Confederate Lies Live On” and the the lies of Alex Jones evident in the HBO Max documentary The Truth Vs. Alex Jones makes a persuasive case that misinformation is the enemy of moral decency and a liberal democracy.
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- Distortion of History: Both Clint Smith's essay and the HBO Max documentary shed light on how misinformation perpetuates distorted narratives of history. The Lost Cause ideology whitewashes the brutality of slavery and the Confederacy's role in perpetuating it, while Alex Jones' conspiracy theories distort current events and historical facts, leading to a warped understanding of reality.
- Undermining Truth: Misinformation erodes the foundation of truth essential for a functioning democracy. Smith's interrogation of The Lost Cause and the exposure of Alex Jones' lies illustrate how falsehoods can permeate public discourse, undermining trust in institutions and making it difficult for citizens to make informed decisions.
- Manipulation of Public Opinion: The persuasive power of misinformation is evident in both cases. The Lost Cause mythology has been used to romanticize the Confederacy and justify systemic racism, while Alex Jones' conspiracy theories manipulate public opinion by preying on fear and paranoia, often with dangerous consequences.
- Normalization of Hate: By perpetuating false narratives that downplay or justify atrocities like slavery or violent events such as mass shootings, misinformation contributes to the normalization of hate and violence. This normalization erodes the moral fabric of society, making it easier for oppressive ideologies to take root and flourish.
- Undermining Social Cohesion: Misinformation sows seeds of division and discord within society. The Lost Cause mythology fosters racial tensions by promoting a revisionist history that ignores the horrors of slavery, while Alex Jones' conspiracy theories create divisions by demonizing certain groups and spreading fear and mistrust.
- Threat to Democratic Values: The proliferation of misinformation poses a grave threat to democratic values such as freedom of speech, transparency, and accountability. When falsehoods are allowed to spread unchecked, it becomes increasingly challenging to uphold these principles, leading to the erosion of democratic norms and institutions.
- Obstruction of Progress: Ultimately, misinformation hinders societal progress by impeding meaningful dialogue and action on pressing issues. Whether it's addressing racial injustice or combating climate change, the spread of falsehoods propagated by The Lost Cause proponents and Alex Jones' followers obstructs efforts to create positive change and move society forward.
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To truly understand African-American history, we are well advised to look to Frederick Douglass whose writings were designed to uplift the oppressed from what Jordan Peele calls The Sunken Place. Based on the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, American Slave (available as a PDF online) and Clint Smith’s essay “Monuments to the Unthinkable,” present 10 reasons to support the claim that teaching about the life of Frederick Douglass and learning about Germany’s post-World War II moral reform is a way of learning about racial injustice that avoids the aforementioned pitfalls because Douglass’ life and Germany’s moral reform embody the importance of helping others rise above the Sunken Place, bearing witness to the truth, embracing individual self-agency to resist societal injustice, fighting to redeem a society’s past racial sins, and championing the wisdom of the Ancients for our continual self-improvement.
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Absolutely, exploring the life and works of Frederick Douglass provides a profound lens through which to understand African-American history and the ongoing struggle against racial injustice. Here are ten compelling reasons why studying Douglass and reflecting on Germany's post-World War II moral reform offers invaluable insights into this complex issue:
- Empowerment from Oppression: Douglass's narrative powerfully illustrates the journey from oppression to empowerment. His life story serves as a beacon of hope, showing how individuals can rise above systemic injustices, echoing themes of liberation from the Sunken Place as highlighted by Jordan Peele.
- Truth-telling and Bearing Witness: Both Douglass's writings and Germany's moral reform efforts emphasize the importance of truth-telling and bearing witness to historical injustices. By confronting uncomfortable truths, societies can move towards reconciliation and healing.
- Embracing Self-Agency: Douglass's emphasis on individual self-agency resonates with the need for personal empowerment in the face of societal oppression. Learning about his life encourages individuals to recognize their own agency in challenging injustice.
- Resisting Societal Injustice: Douglass's activism and advocacy exemplify the power of resistance against societal injustice. By studying his methods of resistance, individuals can learn strategies for effecting meaningful change in their own communities.
- Redemption and Reconciliation: Germany's post-World War II moral reform efforts, including initiatives such as Holocaust education and memorials, demonstrate a commitment to redeeming a society's past sins and fostering reconciliation. Similarly, Douglass's work emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and atoning for historical injustices.
- Championing Historical Wisdom: Douglass drew inspiration from the wisdom of the Ancients, integrating classical philosophy and literature into his advocacy for social justice. By studying his approach, individuals can glean insights from past wisdom to inform contemporary struggles for equality.
- Humanizing Historical Narratives: Both Douglass's narrative and Germany's moral reform initiatives humanize historical narratives by centering the experiences and voices of those who have been marginalized or oppressed. This approach fosters empathy and understanding, essential components of confronting racial injustice.
- Building Empathetic Connections: Learning about Douglass's life and Germany's moral reform efforts cultivates empathetic connections across historical and cultural divides. By empathizing with the struggles of others, individuals are better equipped to advocate for justice and equality.
- Inspiring Social Engagement: Douglass's legacy inspires ongoing social engagement and activism, demonstrating the enduring relevance of his teachings in the fight against racial injustice. Similarly, Germany's commitment to moral reform serves as a reminder of the importance of collective action in addressing historical injustices.
- Continual Self-Improvement: Both Douglass's philosophy and Germany's moral reform initiatives emphasize the importance of continual self-improvement and moral reflection. By engaging with their legacies, individuals are encouraged to strive for personal and societal growth, fostering a more just and equitable world.
In conclusion, studying Frederick Douglass's life and works alongside Germany's post-World War II moral reform efforts provides a multifaceted approach to understanding and addressing racial injustice. Through empowerment, truth-telling, resistance, and reconciliation, these historical narratives offer invaluable lessons for navigating the complexities of our shared humanity and striving towards a more just and equitable future.
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Choice C
In a 1,200-word essay, interrogate the shared psychological challenges rendered in the 1998 movie The Truman Show and the 1999 movie Being John Malkovich to address the claim that both movies are a prophecy of the struggles humans will face in the Age of Social Media. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice D
The Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma shows how we are manipulated and dehumanized so that metaphorically we turn into zombies with our brains intoxicated by the liquor of cheap dopamine. Write a 1,200 word essay that shows how The Social Dilemma compares this zombie state to that of the virus in the 2013 movie World War Z. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 credible sources. You can use my Canvas modules as sources.
Sample Outline:
Paragraph 1: Summarize the ways we become dehumanized by social media according to The Social Dilemma.
Paragraph 2, your thesis: Argue that the "zombie state" in The Social Dilemma compares to the 2013 movie World War Z in 5 ways, making the movie an allegory of a global digital society dissolved into mindless chaos as the result of a pandemic.
Paragraphs 3-7, your body paragraphs expound on the comparison points
Choice E
Address the claim that the 1976 movie Network foreshadows the kind of commodification of performative outrage and its toxic societal effects evident in the documentary The Social Network.
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The Sunken Place
The Purpose of Essay 4
The purpose of Essay 4 is to explore a very specific type of depression and learned helplessness--what Jordan Peele calls the Sunken Place. Examining the great writings of Frederick Douglass, Childish Gambino’s viral video “This Is America,” cinema, and other expressions of the Sunken Place, we want to interrogate the causes of the Sunken Place and study the heroism of those who through self-agency and fortitude overcome the Sunken Place and assert their individual selfhood and dignity in the face of a merciless machine that would prefer to eat us alive.
With this purpose in mind, choose of one the following options:
Choice A: Defining the Sunken Place
In a 1,200-word essay with 5 sources, write an extended definition of the Sunken Place. For your definition, draw from Jordan Peele's movie Get Out, The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, and Childish Gambino's video "This Is America." Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice B: Resisting the Sunken Place
The Sunken Place can be defined as a place of depression and demoralization to the point of paralysis often as the result of racist stereotyping. In this context, write an essay that compares the way Chris Washington in the movie Get Out resists the Sunken Place to the way Frederick Douglass overcomes his own Sunken Place. Consider the following: Both have developed personalities with a strong point of view, a strong articulation of their point of view, and the kind of self-agency and self-worth that make any attempt to enslave or oppress them a near impossibility. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Choice C: Comparing Get Out and American Fiction
Comparing Jordan Peele’s movie Get Out with Cord Jefferson’s movie American Fiction, write a 1,200-word essay that analyzes the way both films are a critique of white liberal condescension toward African Americans. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
1A Essay 4: Interrogating the Maudlin Disposition
The purpose of Essay 4 is to interrogate the maudlin disposition as an insidious moral weakness that is encouraged by both malignant societal forces and the private demons of the individual.
The word maudlin can be described as excessive, drunken and foolish sentimentality for anything that has been elevated to something undeserving of such excessive emotion. To dig into the word maudlin more deeply, we can ascribe a weakness of character associated with it. To be a maudlin person is to be fragile, weak, immature, and unhinged because to be maudlin is to be disconnected from reality and from other people. To be in this state of disconnection and loneliness, maudlin people rely on their excessive sentimentality to compensate and escape from their miserable loneliness and disconnection. Another egregious flaw of the maudlin person is that they confuse the object or idea of their maudlin emotions with reality when in fact the cause of their sentimentality is a mirage or a chimera. Therefore, we can conclude that maudlin people are disoriented, unhinged, weak, fragile souls who console themselves feebly with their hollow sentimentality, anguish, and regret. Write an essay that presents an extended definition of the word maudlin by comparing two of the following three short stories “The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas” by Ursula LeGuin, “Gooseberries” by Anton Chekhov, and “The Swimmer” by John Cheever. Be sure to have a Works Cited page in MLA format with 4 sources.
Required Outline
For paragraph 1, write an extended definition of the word maudlin as the opposite of virtue and moral strength based on Cicero’s Tusculan Disputations in which we find the soul must be “tranquilized by restraint and consistency.” In such a state, the soul “neither pines away in distress, nor is broken down by fear, nor consumed with a thirst of longing in pursuit of some ambition, nor maudlin in the exuberance of meaningless eagerness--he is the wise man of whom we are in quest, he is the happy man.” For your 200-word paragraph research the word maudlin in the context of Cicero’s Tusculan Disputations and present 4 distinguishing characteristics of the word maudlin while you explain how the maudlin disposition is one of moral impoverishment.
For paragraph 2, write a 200-word profile of someone you know who exists in the maudlin state.
For paragraph 3, your thesis, make a claim that two characters from two of the three aforementioned short stories share characteristics of the maudlin disposition and explain that this condition contributes to the characters’ demise.
Paragraphs 4-7 are your supporting paragraphs.
Paragraph 8, your conclusion, is a powerful restatement of your thesis.
Your last page, your Works Cited, is in MLA form with a minimum of 4 sources.
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Addressing the movie The Truman Show and the rise and fall of social media star The Liver King, write an essay that explores the connection between self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the loss of freedom.
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Title: The Trappings of Self-Commodification: Exploring Authenticity and Freedom in The Truman Show and the Rise and Fall of The Liver King
Introduction:
In the age of social media, the lines between personal identity, public persona, and commercial branding have become increasingly blurred. This phenomenon is epitomized by the rise and fall of social media influencers like The Liver King and the thematic exploration of self-commodification in Peter Weir's film "The Truman Show." This essay delves into the intricate connection between self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the erosion of freedom, drawing parallels between The Liver King's trajectory and the narrative of "The Truman Show."
Self-Commodification and Loss of Authenticity:
The Liver King, like many social media stars, initially gained fame by commodifying his persona and lifestyle, presenting an idealized version of himself for public consumption. Through curated posts, sponsored content, and carefully crafted narratives, he cultivated a loyal following, trading authenticity for popularity and commercial success. Similarly, in "The Truman Show," the protagonist Truman Burbank's entire life is commodified for entertainment, with his every action and emotion meticulously staged for mass consumption. Both The Liver King and Truman embody the consequences of self-commodification—the gradual erosion of authenticity as personal experiences are filtered through the lens of public scrutiny and commercial interests.
The Loss of Freedom:
Central to both narratives is the theme of freedom—or the lack thereof—in the face of societal expectations and commercial pressures. The Liver King's ascent to social media stardom comes at the cost of his autonomy, as he becomes increasingly beholden to sponsorships, endorsements, and the demands of his audience. His once-authentic persona becomes a commodity to be bought and sold, trapping him in a cycle of performance and validation. Similarly, Truman Burbank's life in "The Truman Show" is devoid of genuine freedom, as he navigates a carefully constructed world where every aspect of his existence is controlled and manipulated for profit. His quest for liberation is a poignant metaphor for the struggle against societal constraints and the yearning for authentic self-expression.
The Paradox of Self-Commodification:
What emerges from both narratives is the paradoxical nature of self-commodification—the illusion of freedom masking a deeper sense of confinement. While The Liver King and Truman Burbank appear to lead glamorous lives filled with fame and adulation, their experiences are ultimately hollow and devoid of meaning. The pursuit of likes, followers, and endorsements becomes a substitute for genuine human connection, perpetuating a cycle of alienation and emptiness. In relinquishing their authenticity in exchange for societal approval, both protagonists sacrifice their inherent freedoms, becoming prisoners of their own constructed realities.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the rise and fall of The Liver King and the thematic exploration of self-commodification in "The Truman Show" offer profound insights into the complexities of modern identity and the erosion of authenticity in the digital age. Through their respective narratives, both works illuminate the perils of trading personal autonomy for public validation, highlighting the inherent tension between self-expression and societal conformity. As society grapples with the consequences of rampant commercialization and social media saturation, it is imperative to reflect on the true cost of self-commodification—the loss of authenticity, agency, and ultimately, freedom.
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Write a 5-paragraph outline that compares the connection between self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the loss of freedom in the movie The Truman Show and the rise and fall of social media star The Liver King.
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- Introduction
- Brief overview of the movie "The Truman Show" and the rise and fall of social media star The Liver King
- Statement of the thesis: Both narratives explore the connection between self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the loss of freedom.
- Self-Commodification
- Description of how The Liver King and Truman Burbank initially gain fame through self-commodification
- Explanation of how both characters present idealized versions of themselves for public consumption
- Comparison of the methods used by The Liver King and Truman Burbank to maintain their personas for commercial success
III. Loss of Authenticity
- Analysis of the gradual erosion of authenticity experienced by The Liver King and Truman Burbank
- Examination of the ways in which personal experiences are filtered through the lens of public scrutiny and commercial interests
- Discussion of the consequences of sacrificing authenticity for popularity and societal approval
- Loss of Freedom
- Exploration of how The Liver King and Truman Burbank's pursuit of fame comes at the cost of their autonomy
- Illustration of the ways in which both characters become trapped in cycles of performance and validation
- Comparison of the societal constraints and commercial pressures faced by The Liver King and Truman Burbank, highlighting their lack of genuine freedom
- Conclusion
- Restatement of the thesis: Both narratives reveal the interconnectedness of self-commodification, the loss of authenticity, and the loss of freedom
- Summary of key points discussed in the comparison
- Final thoughts on the implications of these themes in contemporary society and the importance of preserving authenticity and autonomy amid the pressures of commercialization and social media.
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