The Role of Religion in Government

I believe that religion does have a place in government. I think it should have more of a place than it does now, but less than the government thinks we want. religion should be brought up when deciding what is morally right and wrong. I'm not saying to follow it completely and force it upon everyone, but we should at least use it as a reference for certain situations. I think (or at least hope) that it would keep the government honest and loyal when determining important things that affect the whole country. It may force them to think more about what's best for the whole country, a little selflessness never hurt anyone.

Social Construction of Gender

The social construction of gender is based on perceived sex differences in society rather than biological bases. I agree that society plays a big part when it comes to gender roles. Children are being exposed to certain stereotypes they feel they need to fit into because of their gender. They can be influenced by television shows, movies, fairy tales, and even toys sold in local stores. The way we communicate with kids also drops hints and leads them to act a certain way.

From the moment a child is born they are dressed in either blue or pink to show their gender. Little girls get dressed up in cute princess outfits, and boys are dressed in camouflage shirts and darker shades. Movies and fairy tales make the women seem to be in dire need of a mans help to come rescue them, showing that men are tough and brave and woman fall into the damsel in distress category. Adults address children differently based on gender. Even toys sold in stores for boys and girls are drastically different. According to society, boys play with trucks, super heroes, and action figures, and girls play with baby dolls, princesses, and barbies.

Global Inequality

After listening to a podcast about global inequality, I learned that it does affect us more than I thought. It may not directly affect us, but if we pay close attention we can see explanations for changes in our everyday lives. All countries are intertwined when it come to the stratification system, which explains why it is important that we pay close attention to what is going on in other countries.

Since we get most of our products from other countries, it only makes sense that when a particular country is doing bad it affects the cost of that product in our country. The price of gas is a good example of this. When prices start to change, so does the strength of our economy. Global inequality also affects our environment, such as natural resources. All countries contribute something to the world, whether it's good or bad.

Social Class in the U.S. Today

After watching several videos on the PBS website about People Like Us: Social Class in America, I am presented with the question "How much do you think social class matters in the U.S. today?". From what I have observed, I think it probably matters too much to most people. Almost everything you do, buy, or wear gives people a certain indication to what social class you are in. Apparently people are more drawn to other people in the same social class as them. They share common interests and can relate more, which makes them feel comfortable.

I think social class matters a lot because everyone cares about what other people think of them. People are very judgmental, and will judge you on just about everything you do. If you dress nice, have expensive furniture, and go to fancy restaurants people will be envious of you. And who doesn't want to be envied? It makes you feel important and better than others. We all stress the fact that everyone is equal, but our actions show otherwise. I think our nature is too selfish to truly believe that everyone is equal, which is very troubling and sad.

Do you think Americans today are more isolated due to technology?

I do believe that Americans are more isolated today because of technology. We no longer have to speak to people in person, there are so many different ways to communicate. This is good and bad. It's good to be able to get a hold of someone through email, text, or social media because you are bound to get a quicker response. There is no need to go out of your way to speak to or call someone.  You don't have to call and create small talk that leads up to the purpose of why you called. That is also why it's bad.

Due to the advanced technology we use today, there is little need to speak to people in person. Because of this, we lose people skills. It becomes awkward when you try to talk to someone in person. Making a bad impress at a job interview can prevent people from getting jobs and experiencing different opportunities. We become dependent on technology and don't really have a need for other people anymore. A phone or computer can do just about the same things as a person. This isolates us from society. On a computer or phone you can find information, answers to questions, and talk/see other people.

Nature vs. Nurture

After listening to a podcast on nature vs. nurture, I agree with the nurture side of the debate. How you are raised and the environment you grow up in has a lot to do with who you become. Everyone is different because they come from different backgrounds. The lessons our parents instill within us when we are young stick with us and shape the person we become.

Someone who grew up in a high class neighborhood normally does not end up the same as someone who grew up in a lower class neighborhood with less opportunities. I think the where and how you are raised plays a big part in how turn out. It's not just because of nature.

Hugh Laurie's "America" sketch on BBC

After watching Hugh Laurie's sketch on BBC, my sociology class was told to analyze how American culture looked to the British audience. The sketch started out with Hugh Laurie dressed in plaid, hair kinda messy with something tied around his forehead. Even before he started singing the audience giggled just from their reaction to his clothing, which probably seemed somewhat silly to them due to the culture difference.

He sat at the piano, very serious looking, and started to play. By singing the same word (America) repeatedly throughout the song, it almost made it seem like Americans were "simple" when it comes to everything including music. He switched half way through the song and began to sing "The States", obviously another name for America, showing that "simple" side to the thought put into the song. While singing, Laurie made funny expressions that certain American rock groups would make. he also uses different techniques with his voice like a raspy slide/moan to emphasize the serious tone of the song. At the end of the song, he is punched, ending the sketch.

The audience reacted most to the lyrics and facial expressions made. The audience laughed at most of the little quirky things that Laurie did to poke fun at American music and culture. I, personally, did not find the sketch offensive or rude because it's just a comedy show. Shows like that make fun of most cultures. That's why they're funny! They make fun of everyone and everything.