Posts

The Barbie Dilemma

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I am about to say something that might get people a little upset. And that’s okay because I am speaking my mind, and throughout my life, everyone has told me to do just that. So here it goes: I believe there is nothing wrong with the Barbie doll. I don’t think it was meant to counter attack the feminist movement as Prager says. Of course, the doll exemplifies a “perfect” life, full of Malibu sun and care-free, California living; I won’t argue that. However, claiming the doll serves as a tool to undercut the efforts of feminist or “subliminally” put women in their place is complete nonsensical.                 To address Prager’s strange-bordering crazy- discussion of the “dignity of concealment”, her idea is absurd. Exposing children to that kind of imagery has clear consequences that I am sure you- an intelligent reader- understands. Much the same way we avoid swear words around children, so their minds w...

The Ultimate Ultimatum

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A glimpse of hope; a shimmer of eternal joy; a moment of extreme achievement. From pasteurization to the polio vaccine, science has been the driving force behind change. Longer, better lives are possible due to the great efforts of researchers to develop the world of tomorrow- a feeling of mysteriousness, fascination, and, of course, celebration. However, that time of celebration has transitioned throughout all this advancement to a time of reflection where we question the legitimate application of these mechanisms. When the thrill of discovery overcomes people, the fear of the implications soon follows. As Chet Raymo warned, "the unexamined quest for knowledge is hemmed with peril." Based on the past and the findings of the present, Raymo's words resonates at full blast.    Where should we begin? Well, the x-ray probably offers the clearest example, so let's start there. After its introduction in 1895, this tool has helped medical professionals in numerous way...
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Nestled in the heart of New York City, the  Charging Bull  statue reminds us of "the strength and power of the American people"-plain and simple. However, with the introduction of the  Fearless Girl,  a corporate campaign for "State Street  Global's  'Gender Diversity Index' fund", the massive bronze sculpture takes on an entirely new meaning, and that is why Fearless Girl should be relocated.    As of now, any visitors to this famous site see a large animal charging a little girl, a message of the world's oppression against women and their success, but that’s not the message Di Modica wanted to convey. Rather, the meaning of the bull is one of perseverance. Of course, America has had many shortcomings throughout its history, but the true story is one of resilience. Rather than becoming entangled in the problems, our country has progressed into the modern day. According to the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, "...

ONE Nation (with many cultures)

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My goal is not to eradicate any trace of culture. Rather, I hope to embrace the great diversity of our nation and build a common bond. After all, I find myself- like so many of us- coming from a foreign background. My parents both emigrated here in hopes of a better life. Leaving a communist country, they spoke only Romanian and Hungarian- no English. However, learning the language brought new meaning to their life; if they were not compelled to speak English, it would feel just like the oppressive country they left, not a haven of freedom.    Now, I realize America is extremely overwhelming to a foreigner, but creating a "melting pot" of sorts requires a "common culture". Just as Spain or Australia have unique backgrounds, the US  also possesses a distinct qualities that allows all to participate in politics , a "gateway to American life". To establish unity among all citizens, we must first speak the same language. For example, only a handful of ne...

Does Anyone actually Win?

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T he game of L ife is quite literally a game of  money .  Whether it be the career card, stock certificate, salary card, or house deed, basically all  decisions made during Milton  Bradley's famous board game  revolve  around those green pieces of paper . Even the board itself h as depictions of a typical life, all relating to wealth.  First,  you must   gi ve  up freedom and relaxation to  pursue higher   education  or  a fast-paced career.  Then, y ou somehow   make  it   to   a  "precarious and irksome livelihood ",  and now you live in Blithering Heights. Wow! There's a  library, parlor, servant's quarters, and a grand assortment of  ameniti es . Do  not be deceived though :  "after the exertions of years...undergoing constant distress of mind and fortune", you will be lucky to take an afternoon  break . Of course, the mansion is  infini tely ...
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It was a typical March 10 ( j acket optional) and the sun was actually out early in the morning . At precisely 7:45 am, though, pressure and anxiety enveloped the large Keppel Gym . Even the subtlest cough instigated a disgruntled sigh as conc ent ration was so rudely lost.     Yesterday , thousands, if not millions, around the country and the world took part in the much anticipated "annual festivities " : the SAT. Meant to be a gauge for your college readiness, the SAT is somehow synonymous with your absolute future. Do well and you're set but fail and you just suck.  But is it really like that? Maybe you got a good score; you probably studied really hard and that’s great. W hile it is "marvelous" how well you did, believing you w ill never work hard ever again is kind of "pathetic". The fate of life relies on more than just a one-time test. Rather, the daily decisions to invest time into something you love dictates your fut...