Visual Arguments

I came across this picture when I Googled "controversial images". Many controversial images appeared; however, I chose this picture because I found it to be the most controversial.

I believe that this picture is controversial because it is depicting a child having to make the choice between education or violence. I feel as is whomever produced this photo has the baby looking toward the gun, symbolizing the the baby has made his/her choice of a life of crime. Since there is a rather high rate of crime in our nation, especially within the youth, the picture is showing that many kids today are choosing crime over an education. This picture could also be stating that the child has no choice, and what the baby grows up around will determine what path they follow.

Violence and education are the two sides of the debate that center around this image. I believe that this image is sending a message to educators and parents that more needs to be done to keep children on the right path. More needs to be done to prevent kids from choosing a life of crime, and to promote education. Putting "hey ma" on the building blocks, as well as, "James" on the top left corner makes the image more personal. If the image is personal then it will make people think and actually put a face on the problem at hand.

I do not believe that this image is going to far, if anything it perfect to get the message across. It is personal enough to tug on peoples emotions but not enough to say it is inappropriate. It may have been considered going to far if the baby is holding the gun or using it. With the baby just looking at the gun it strongly gets the issue across to the audience. I in no way thought this image was controversial, but I could see where some people would find it inappropriate to have a picture of a gun next to a baby. The gun symbolizes violence and fear, where as the baby symbolizes innocents and purity. People may have completely different views about this image which makes it controversial, this is why I selected it.

Myspace Response Blog

MySpace and Facebook are social networking sites that millions of people use all over the world. They are a way for people to stay connected through posts, pictures, and events. The social networking sites are relatively new, with people continuing to join everyday. They are a great tool for people to use who like to know what their friends are doing, or to let their friends know what they are doing. With the Internet being the foundation for MySpace and Facebook there are many pros as well as many cons. The Internet is a great source for information and knowledge, however, people may not be who they seem to be online which can make it a very dangerous tool to use.

If you are a Facebook or MySpace user you can understand what a great tool it is for your social life. You can share a wealth of information with friends and family members. You can also see what is going on in their lives. The majority of social network site users are young adults who have grown use to the fact they can go online and find practically anything they want to know at the click of a mouse. It makes sense that someone would combine the Internet with a social networking organization. It keeps people in touch that in the past may have never kept in touch due to the lack of communication and technology.

Although MySpace and Facebook have many pros, there are cons that could be harmful or dangerous. Since you can share so much information on the sites there is always the possibility of someone you don't want seeing that information. There are certain security measures that you can take to prevent unwanted people from seeing your information but it is the Internet and nothing is completely private. The problem with child predators or sex offenders can also be a danger to users of a social network site since there is no real policing to prevent them from using the site. It can be extremely dangerous for young teenagers who get involved with people on these sites that trick them into meeting at a location and taking advantage of them. What you or your friends post on your MySpace or Facebook page can affect your career. Many companies and agencies are now looking at applicants social networking pages when running back round checks. What you have on your page could determine whether or not you get the job or not. People have to be cautious of their actions on their Facebook or MySpace pages or it could be costly.

As a Facebook user I understand how useful and convenient it can be when communicating with friends and family. I also know that you have to watch what you post, as well as who you allow to see your posts. I feel that social networking sites are an important part of our society and everyone should have the opportunity to use them; however, there should be safety measures put into place to protect people's privacy. For instance, I believe that people under the age of 18 should have their own specific social networking site separate for people over the age of 18. There should be security procedures in place to make certain the age of the user and what site they should be put into. You cannot completely eliminate the world of the social networking site, it is to much a part of our society and culture, you can only make rules to police it.

"Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight"

If I had to create a bumper sticker that modeled my philosophy for life, it would be "Fall down seven times, stand up eight". This motto relates to my life because I have been through many ups' and downs' and even though it might feel as if sometimes things couldn't get any worse you have to take a hold of the situation and make it positive. Everyday is filled with many obstacles and decisions that you have to live with. Many times I don't always make the right decisions; However, at the end of the day I try not to think about the poor decisions I have made and look forward to learning a lesson to never make those same mistakes again. I feel as if you have learned from a mistake then it has helped you grow as a person and you become more experienced in life.