DOCUMENT by: Bob Hassenger
Subject: Discussion for Module #5: Individual in Community (Start: October 20, 2003 End: November 9, 2003).
To the extent that we are all captives of our culture and sub-cultures (e.g., religious, ethnic, economic, educational), to what extent can our choices be "free," even if we firmly grounded in a tradition? If we are, then some choices may be simpler, we "don't even think about it").
To the extent that we're not, we're bombarded with countless messages, in media program content and advertising, about "how to be" to achieve success, popularity, happiness. (As the father of an adolescent daughter, e.g., I am far more concerned about the sub-texts of programs like "Friends" and "Buffy" [of happy--or not--memory], and the stuff on MTV than I am by the commercials, or by the pornography that I know is accessible to her via the Internet. [My wife, on the other hand, is probably more concerned about the influence on me of some of the sub-texts of say, "The West Wing" or "The Sopranos"--two of the few series I faithfully watch, along with "Six Feet Under"-- than by the considerable selection of pornography that is available to me, as well.])
So, how can we make "informed" choices, that make us more likely to become more highly-evolved? Within a strong tradition, our choices are circumscribed; outside it, we are overwhelmed with choices. Do we go with Sheila et al., or those immersed in the therapeutic movement and do what "feels" right?
Share your thoughts about such issues in the Discussion Area.
Click here for instructions on how to participate in a discussion
When you are ready to participate in the discussion, click the RESPOND link below.
