6/27/2011

6/27/2011

I had so many ideas when I decided to start writing again, and now that I have, my words have retreated like turtles to their shells. Little concepts that were about to blossom and dance across the screen have suddenly gotten stage fright at the thought of an imaginary audience. Stories begging to be told have decided that they were only being bombastic, and would rather stay out of the spotlight and mind their own business.

I’ve been thinking a lot about getting older. I’ve been wondering where the time has gone, and that in and of itself has made me realize that I’m much older than I used to be. Adulthood is an interesting concept. In youth, we are always racing towards the next big birthday, always waiting for that next big milestone. We want the freedom, the adventure. We want the world to open up to us like an open highway. We want to press the gas pedal to the floor and see what lies ahead.

And yet, responsibility seeps into our pores. When adventure offers an invitation, responsibility is there with a “might I interject?” before we can accept. Just as we are about to find out just how far the speedometer can go, responsibility looms up like a speed bump in the road, ready to make us slow down of our own accord or risk damaging our vehicles.

Slowly, we trade the reckless abandonment of youth for calculated risk. We look back at the things we did in the past and wonder how we could have been so stupid. And yet, I wonder if there is something to that stupidity. Perhaps it is less youthful idiocy, and simply a lack of learned fear. There is a reason that we learn new skills more easily as children. Living in Hawaii, I have seen 6 year olds surf like professionals, and I can’t help but admire their lack of fear. They don’t see the wipeout, they see the glorious ride. I guess that’s what I’ve been lacking lately. I want to see the potential adventure, rather than the pitfalls and dangers along the way.

Tomorrow. Tomorrow, I will start letting my fears go just a little bit. Remember what it feels like to jump off a fence holding an umbrella, thinking that I can fly like Mary Poppins. Tomorrow, I will start a list of all the things I want to do before I die. And tomorrow, I will start thinking of the ways I can make each thing on that list happen.

The Tattoo Final Response

In its final chapters, “The Tattoo,” takes us once again into a Hawaii often unknown to tourists, nonresidents, or even those who do not take a closer look. As Ken and his wife return to the Windward side, their lives are changed due to the difference in economic means, as well as the different culture. The change in their lives based on their location shows the way in which locations all hold their own cultures and norms, even if they are in close proximity. Here, the difference is between rural and metropolitan Hawaii- while the city brings the dangers of the corrupt, illegal behavior displayed by Mama San, Ken’s hometown brings with it’s unique issues of poverty, alcoholism, and domestic violence. Again, relative deprivation shows it’s dark face as the couple must struggle in a culture far removed from gold chains and luxurious apartments.

While “The Tattoo” portrays racism in Hawaii in a striking manner, I chose to research the subject further, moving beyond the fictional into reality. Though I have personally experienced racism in Hawaii (mostly through being turned down for jobs where the employees sneered at me for being white on my way out, or the elderly lady in my building that makes comments about the “f***ing haoles” every time my husband or I enter the elevator with her), I was fascinated by the fact that even groups within the island have hostility towards one another. The feud between Ken’s father and Claudia is obviously based on stereotypes and prejudiced perceptions. The previous reading from the semester, titled “Talking Story with Hawaii’s Youth: Confronting Violent and Sexualized Perceptions of Ethnicity and Gender,” provides examples of how Samoans, Filipinos, and Japanese residents of Hawaii view each other, and develop stereotyped views of other ethnicities.

While reading this book, I began to think more about how racism is perpetuated in Hawaii, and how it comes to exist. It is easy to see where racism towards “haoles” stems from- tourism is one of Hawaii’s largest industries, and many tourists are Caucasian. While tourism does bring in a lot of revenue to the state, I think that the concept of relative deprivation is often at play- while most locals do not tend to be wealthy, they often have to cater to wealthy tourists that stay in nice hotels and relax on the beach drinking Mai Tais. It is easy to see this disparity in wealth. In addition, tourist destinations such as Waikiki are heavily discriminatory. Even the homeless are banned from staying in Waikiki in order to preserve the tourist destination’s image. Instead, the homeless are forced to live on the streets of downtown Honolulu or the west side of the island, on a beach essentially known as tent city.

But how are racial tensions perpetuated amongst locals? Based on The Tattoo, as well as the reading “Talking Story with Hawaii’s Youth,” it seems that these tensions occur in a similar manner to many big cities housing many diverse races- stereotypes. Stereotypes such as Samoans being violent, or Filipinos owning illegal businesses, are perpetuated by other’s perceptions, and often become self-fulfilling prophecy as other ethnic groups reject those they are unfamiliar with, thus causing individuals to follow the paths that others perceive them to do. For example, Claudia rebels against her mother’s lifestyle, yet does not find acceptance in Ken’s family. It is easy to see how an individual in that situation may return to their family and carry on and perpetuate the stereotype because discrimination keeps them from finding a new place in the world.

Overall, “The Tattoo” provides a glimpse into the cultures and subcultures within Hawaii, depicting with brutal honesty the many social problems and structures that exist behind the beautiful beaches and idyllic sunsets portrayed in travel guides. In addition, it provides insight into prison culture as well, which is a society in and of itself, containing hierarchies, norms, and structures that regulate behavior and social interaction within the establishment.

"Lost," - Stranded in Sociology

In order to best connect media to our lives, it is important to study examples that truly manage to captivate, and scintillate an audience. After all, successful media thrives best when it can tap into an essential truth of the human condition, and portray it in a manner that relates to its audience.

            One particularly successful show of the last decade was  “Lost,” a show that portrays a group of plane crash survivors stranded on an island. Although the show delves into science fiction, time travel, and cinematic drama, it manages to scintillate its audience by creating characters that are believable. The development of each main character’s back-story and motivations not only allows the audience a glimpse of the psychology behind the character’s actions, but also reveals sociological patterns to the discerning eye.

            Although the characters are alone on an island, far outside of established law or society, they begin to form their own society very quickly. Leaders emerge, and a civilization is formed. In a way, the first episodes of the series depict culture shock- the group is thrown into a new environment, far different from their previous experience, and the reactions are varied- some resist the new environment, attempting to use rules from their previous life and society to interact. Some embrace the new order, trying to regroup and adapt to the situation.

            Very quickly, a hierarchy begins to emerge- naturally the television show focuses on the main characters- the figures that maintain the power. The extras, most of which are unnamed and only appear during group scenes, represent the subordinate group. In addition, social norms begin to appear, as the stranded group adopts generally accepted and shared rules for behavior- for example, meeting at a certain time to share what little food they have obtained, or gathering to discuss the next action. In a way, this is an accurate portrayal of society, and reminiscent of conflict theory. While those in power have maximum airtime (or control and power), those who lack the resources or leadership are extras, or minor players in the game of life. Several times in the series, the less powerful characters challenge authority- the equivalent of the proletariat in Marxism standing up to those who rule. Unfortunately, this generally fails them, representing a striking depiction of the helplessness of minorities.

            Throughout the show, the idea of relative deprivation consistently emerges. Even removed from structured society, the characters build their own society, and resources are not evenly distributed. For example, one character (Sawyer), hoards resources and refuses to share them unless he obtains something in return. This leads to frustration among the others. While Parrillo’s text indicates that frustration within society is often not acted upon because “the true source of frustration is often too nebulous or too powerful to act against,” the characters in this show are able to retaliate due to the small number of inhabitants in their makeshift society. In a way, this show depicts society in its most basic terms, by reducing the number of participants and using individuals to represent entire groups.

            Since the show uses a small group of characters, sociological patterns are even easier to identify. Scapegoating appears often, as those unhappy with the situation tend to find someone to blame for the problems, whether or not the person actually caused the dilemma. Also, many other sociological concepts are explored through flashbacks and flash-forwards regarding the character’s lives. Racial profiling is shown when Sayeed is singled out because he is a Middle Eastern male. Stereotypes are applied by the show to portray the Korean couple according to expected traits and characteristics in order to fit the audience’s expectations. Power-differential theory is depicted on a very basic level, when new additions to the group are treated in a manner similar to those of a migrant group joining an indigenous group- while they may be allowed participation, the migrant group relatively is allowed far less input and sway in decision making.

            Overall, I feel that “Lost” is an exceptional example of the theories and concepts inherent to sociological studies. While most media tends to encompass representations of true human behaviors and attitudes, “Lost,” provides the added interest of showing a society essentially beginning from scratch- leaving the audience wondering whether the sociological structures we face in our every day lives are unchangeable because of society, or whether these ideas are so engrained in our subconscious that they would develop organically, even if we had the option to start over on a deserted island. 

Sociological Images

“Regulating Public Spaces”

http://thesocietypages.org/socimages/2010/11/13/regulating-public-spaces/

“Marginalizing Bus Riders”

http://thesocietypages.org/socimages/2010/11/15/marginalizing-bus-riders/

“Spanish and English Versions of a Public Advisory”

http://thesocietypages.org/socimages/2010/11/07/spanish-and-english-versions-of-a-public-advisory/

The website, “Sociological Images,” presents many examples of how discrimination functions within society. I chose two examples that show the ways in which public advisory signs within public spaces demonstrate discrimination towards specific groups of people. The first, “Regulating Public Spaces,” shows a sign that “allows the types of activities preferred by the middle class and exclude those of the urban poor.” For example, such things as “enjoying the gardens,” or “spreading out a blanket”- though specifically not plastic material- are allowed, whereas alcohol that is not purchased on the property, feeding the pigeons, and organized ball games are prohibited. These rules discriminate against the poor, who might otherwise come to the park to find a place to sleep- spreading a blanket out is generally the behavior of a middle-class individual on a picnic, whereas plastic material would most likely be spread by someone looking for a place to sleep through the night. Additionally, limiting alcohol to drinks purchased on the premises excludes not only the homeless, but also individuals who might choose to save money by bringing a cooler from home. The second public advisory sign I examined as a sign on historic Olvera Street in Los Angeles, which features an English and Spanish translation of the rules of the public space. Whereas the English version simply reads “do not touch the plants,” the Spanish version proclaims, “abstain from touching anything, cutting or etching names into the cactus.” Obviously, this exemplifies the concept of different rules for different people, and shows a very covert example of racial profiling- only Spanish speaking individuals are warned not to touch ANYTHING. 

Finally, I read the article “Marginalizing Bus Drivers,” which discusses the placement of bus stops far from shopping malls and stores. This placement discourages use of busses by those who might use the option instead of taking a car, and is an inconvenience for those who cannot afford a vehicle. This placement is a very literal separation within society for different classes of people. I noticed this in the town I grew up- bus stations were generally placed far off the beaten path, and many of the middle class suburban residence did not want to take the bus because the bus stations were generally used by homeless people.

Systematic discrimination within public places is unfortunately very common. While one would think that public spaces should be just that – PUBLIC, there are obvious ways in which public places set up a dividing line between groups. These types of invisible barriers can be explained by conflict theory, in which groups of higher status intend to keep their status through marginalization of those in the lower classes. Much of this is accomplished through stratification, as different classes are divided by power, prestige, and property. In the first example, prestige is obviously given to those with the financial and social resources to picnic in the park, whereas those who need a place to sleep for the night, or cannot afford to purchase beverage in the park’s café, are excluded. Power and prestige play a part in this as well- the people with the power are able to make the signs, or place bus stops far from public places, whereas those who are affected by these small signs of discrimination play no role. Considering my articles, property does not play as big a role at first glance, as the places in question are supposedly public, but it is clear on further examination that property is a sign of power and wealth- those who are forced to take the bus often do not have the resources to own a car, just like those who do not have a home are banned from the park.

"The Tattoo" Response 2

            The middle section of “The Tattoo,” is an inside look on the workings of a life affected by society, and demonstrates the enormous effect that our surroundings and culture have on our behaviors.

            When Ken moves to town and begins working for Mama-San, he is transported from his previous position of relative deprivation to a world where he can afford to live a lifestyle of extravagance and luxury. Immediately, his environment and position in society begin to change his views- where he previously viewed Mama-San’s ostentatious apparel ridiculous, he himself begins wearing a gaudy thick chain of gold to symbolize his wealth. He is able to afford things that had previously been completely out of his realm of affordability, and through acquiring a condo, a nice car, and expensive jewelry, Ken quickly becomes a member of a different social class. If viewed through the lens of symbolic interaction, these material possessions are more than mere luxuries for Ken to enjoy- they are a sign to others that represents an attitude and message that Ken wishes to send to others. Additionally, through his involvement in Mama-San’s often-illegal business endeavors, Ken adapts to new norms, such as violence in order to help the loan-sharking business.

            Through the character of Claudia, “The Tattoo,” provides us with another perspective, one which both differs from Ken’s by providing a viewpoint from a different culture as well as a different socioeconomic background. One interesting quote by Claudia reads, “It pisses me off. Koreans get a bad rap for a bunch of stuff. You notice every bad driver in Hawaii is a Korean lady? Every little grocery store, the ones that sell pornos behind the counter, is owned by a Korean… All of us aren’t bad-driving bar and grocery store owners. But people like my mother perpetuate it,” (pg. 30, McKinney).  This is intriguing on several levels. First of all, the book had previously mentioned the patrons of Mama-San’s strip club—this included Japanese patrons, tourists from Waikiki, and college students. It is interesting that Koreans are given a “bad rap,” as Ken calls it, for providing a business which has patrons of diverse groups, often the groups that hold the stereotype. Additionally, it is interesting that Mama-San experienced the horror of being a prostitute, yet still perpetuates the cycle by creating a business in which she profits off of behavior which had previously victimized her. This could be connected to cumulative-causation—Mama-San had been socialized in a culture where such behaviors had been common. In addition, Koreans are stereotyped as owners of shady businesses. In response, she may have heard the stereotypes and determined that it would be an easy way to make money, thus opening loan-sharking and stripping businesses which in turn perpetuate the stereotype.

            “The Tattoo,” though depicting a story set a couple decades back, still gives insight into the Hawaii of today. Though Hawaii contains many cultures, and represents diverse backgrounds, it is still far from being a “melting pot.” Amalgamation has not occurred to a full extent- different cultural groups still tend to band together, and persistent stereotypes continue to resonate. This reading brings to mind the article, “Talking Story with Hawaii’s Youth.” Even though many cultures live side by side with a small, island environment, differences continue to be seen. It is not easy to determine any one factor. Certainly, stereotyping, persistent norms, and the “vicious-circle” phenomenon all play a role in Hawaii’s past and present. 

Mexican Drug Cartels

     When I was a little girl, my father had to go on a one month business trip to Mexico. When he returned, he came back telling stories of the laid-back attitude, delicious food, and warm hospitality, only made more beautiful by the pictures he brought back with him, and tales of new friends he had made. At this time, the mention of Mexico brought to mind fiestas and siestas, burritos and burros, sombreros and sangria. I made up my mind then, that Mexico was a destination I would one day fully explore. Unfortunately, when I had the opportunity to visit with my husband, he was told by the military that he was not allowed to go over the border. This was the start of the Mexico that exists today- riddled by drug cartels, violence, and brutality.

            It is currently impossible to read the daily news without hearing a mention of the terrifying and violent drug wars across the border. According to statistics provided by the LA Times, approximately 28,228 drug war related deaths have occurred since January 2007. Despite a military led “crackdown,” the cartels are seizing control of the state, having spread their criminal behavior to include extortion, kidnapping, and migrant smuggling, with murders of politicians and police occurring at alarming and overwhelming rates (Wilkinson, 2010). President Calderon himself is quoted as stating, “"This criminal behavior is what has changed, and become a challenge to the state, an attempt to replace the state." While drug trafficking related violence is sadly nothing new, the Mexican drug cartels have taken brutality to a new level, with groups such as La Fimilia and the Zetas beheading and dismembering rivals and stringing up their corpses in public areas to make a statement. Additionally, these cartels possess military-class weaponry smuggled from the United States, and have even denotated car bombs in attacks on Mexican police.

            The brutality is not only a terror to citizens, but is in many ways facilitating a breakdown in Mexico’s government. Mayors are killed routinely, and the criminal groups have even caused Pemex, the state oil company and top national income provider, to shut down (Wilkinson, 2010).

            The influence of Mexican drug cartels is not only an issue that applies within their borders- much of the trafficking sends drugs over the border into the United States. In addition, a recent report shows that the influence has expanded to other Latin American countries, with Gen. Miguel Hidalgo, Peru’s top anti-narcotics official citing 32 arrests of Mexican cartel members within two years (Kraul, 2009).

            There are many ways in which to analyze the drug cartels in Mexico. They follow a pattern of hierarchal organization, as well as networks of acquaintances that facilitate the criminal behavior—for example, drug cartels often employ business men and police in a corrupt manner. The unavoidable and undeniable presence of the cartels creates a culture of unlawfulness, and infiltrates the country. This can be seen by the fact that the Mexican government is powerless in comparison. This can also be viewed as an interesting reversal of conflict theory, in which the group in power aims to stay in power- in this situation, it seems as though the metaphorical "proletariat" has, in a way, seized control and found a way in which to overturn the group in power. It can also be seen as a way of trespassing economic determinism through the use of deviance. The existence of cartels have also drastically changed the norms within Mexico-- the violence that has become a daily occurrence within the country has changed the way in which citizens behave and the tourism industry, which has dropped significantly since tourists have been taken hostage or kidnapped. In a strange application, one can view the relationship between the cartels and the Mexican government as a twisted application of the power-differential  theory.

         This recent problem in Mexico is intriguing, in that it raises many questions regarding how such a war could occur, and escalate, within such a short period of time. Considering Mexico’s previous economy, it might be possible that relative deprivation within the country has caused cartels to try to even the score. Equally possible, it could be the effects of deviance within society. When will it end?

   

Kraul, C. "Mexico's drug lords look south." Los Angeles Times. March 25, 2009.

Wilkinson, T. "Mexican drug cartels thrive despite Calderon's offense." Los Angeles Times. August 8, 2010.

"The Tattoo" Response 1

            Within our personal lives, it is inevitable that we encounter cultures and realities that differ drastically from our own. This holds especially true within the realm of sociological studies, in which we find both familiarity and explanations for things we have personally experienced, as well as gateways into realms that are foreign and new.

            The novel, “The Tattoo,” is a story teeming with insight into both Hawaiian culture, as well as prison culture. Through the characters, the audience is allowed a glimpse of two very distinct realms, and experience characters that embody principles both familiar and foreign.

            Throughout the first chapters of the novel, it is interesting to recognize the strikingly different norms present in prison life. While norms outside of jail generally rely on being polite and amiable, the very ability to survive within prison depends on brutality and being able to prove one’s worth and potential threat. For example, within the first two pages, the author exemplifies the method of establishing hierarchy, when he indicates that it is custom for the new cellmate to have his pillow and blanket taken away from him as a sign of authority (pg. 2). In this way, status positions are established. This plays into the idea of material culture- whereas life outside of prison might use such things as Armani suits or nice cars to indicate wealth or status, the novel quickly shows that in prison, the ability to obtain another’s belongings (which are rare and sparse as it is), demonstrates dominance and status. Furthermore, this type of hierarchy exemplifies social structure. Social relationships in the novel are determined by a mixture of time spent in prison, as well as demonstrations of dominance.

            Another concept visited by “The Tattoo,” is the concept of assimilation. Assimilation is crucial in prison life, as conforming to the norms and social structure are integral to one’s safety. However, even more fascinating is the personal story told by Ken, and how he became the person he is. Throughout Ken’s family life, he is ridiculed by his father for not being brave enough, or tough enough to fight. However, Ken assimilates to the violence at his school, after having his “ass kicked,” (pg.46) while running away from someone who was chasing him. As if that humiliation wasn’t enough, his father berates him for not fighting back. Ken then adopts his father’s values of being the “predator,” instead of the “prey,” (pg. 46).  This ideology is one that gains his father’s respect, as well as leading Ken down a path of violence. He develops a persona that is intimidating, thus losing his former image as someone to ridicule. This is further exemplified when Ken mocks Tavares, and accepts his abuse with a laugh, thus establishing that he lack fears, a quality that also helps establish status within the prison system. Additionally, assimilation is also show by the use of pidgin instead of English- in the study of communications, this is called “code-switching,”- the practice of adapting one’s language to others in order to be better understood and accepted.

            In my personal life, I have not had much experience or exposure to prison culture, but I feel that the idea of assimilating into one’s environment is crucial in everyday life, and relatable to every situation. Whether it is a new work environment, a new neighborhood, or a new country, we often find ourselves in the position of adapting to a different culture in order to “fit in.” The novel, “The Tattoo,” gives one clear example of an environment in which social structure and assimilation to a culture is crucial for survival. While most of us might never see such an extreme case within our lifetime, the lesson is universal.