Positive and Negative Pictures of America

I chose this picture of a big, luxurious house as a positive presentation of America. It shows how prosperous and rich America is, as the house is probably very expensive. It also shows that America is hard working and successful because to be able to afford this house it must have taken a lot of hard work. I think that it also shows power, as to have power, you need money and America has a lot of money. This picture almost epitomises the American Dream because it shows that by working hard and being successful, you too can afford to live in such an expansive place. This picture shows that America is successful and hardworking as well as powerful.

I chose this picture of an obese person as a negative representation of America. It shows that America is unhealthy as it has one of the highest obesity rates in the world and also releases the second most carbon emissions in the world. As obesity is mostly common among the poorer people, it shows that despite all of America’s prosperity, there are still a high proportion of poor people and that most Americans cannot achieve the American Dream. The Ancient Greeks associated obesity with a character flaw which links into the idea of America being a greedy and power mad nation. This image says that America is greedy and glutinous.

Week 1

When I think of America, unfortunately all I think about are bad points... Immediately fast food and child obesity springs to mind, and the fact that the figures are still increasing don't do anything to help America's image. I chose the picture on the right because I think it is a reflection of this point. America's fast food services are renowned to cultures across the world and because of other countries being so easily influenced by America, child obesity is becoming a re-occurring theme all over the world.

For a positive image of America, I thought that this image was a good representation of patriotism. The significance of patriotism in America is what makes the country so renowned, and at times can even be seen to put other countries to shame. The loyalty and love that American citizens have for their country is something that other countries should look up to.

Welcome to the blog for Group 2 AMS 1111 2011/12