Talking Points 1
Johnathan Kozol “Amazing Grace”
Matthew Sawyer
QUOTES
1. “That’s how it is. What can I say?”
- Mrs. Washington uses this as her reasoning for why horrible things are happening the way they are at St. Anne’s
2. “If poor people behaved rationally, they would seldom be poor for long.”
- Professor Lawrence Mead’s conclusion on why poor people are poor
3. “But they’re in a cage. They can not see.”
- David’s reasoning behind why St. Anne’s does not become “better”
POINTS TO SHARE
This article is a more “real” look into the culture of power because it focuses less on the theoretical concepts and more on an actual example of its practice. I chose the quotes above because they represent 3 main views on why the situation doesn’t change. Mrs. Washington’s view is one which is drained of hope and replaced with acceptance. It represents a view of someone whom has lived long enough to see change fail and has come to accept the situation as what it is. Professor Mead’s view is one that represents the “culture of power.” it acknowledges the situation but fails to take responsibility for its occurrence, rather it places the blame on those affected, citing non-conformance to the “culture.” David’s view is unique because it gives and explicit reason for the situation: those in the situation are shown it is the only way. He also alludes to the fact that if just one person can see the outside world, they can get out.
i like what you said about the second quote, and i completely agree. it's that attitude that keeps this country so backed up on progressing to equality. people want power so badly, but with power comes responsibilty; yet, those in power do not want to admit they are responsible for anything.
ReplyDeleteThis article is a more “real” look into the culture of power because it focuses less on the theoretical concepts and more on an actual example of its practice.
ReplyDeleteI agree, in teaching concepts should always accompany examples