Preface: Writing this because I have no idea when it is due and want to cover my bases. I wrote about my thoughts on the medicalization of drugs and the theme of economic medicalization from the documentary as well as my own experiences working in the pediatric unit at UCDMC.
I think it is really interesting how conditions are being medicalized by non medical professionals for economic purposes. I am interested in going into medicine so I think its really important that we keep this in mind to minimize ineffective drugs that we give people for "conditions" that in reality don't need to be treated. The orgasm documentary made me wonder how prevalent the issue of economical medicalization is. I work at the UC davis medical center and none of the doctors or nurses are bad people. I can't imagine any of them knowingly prescribing medication or procedures that were completely necessary, especially since it is the pediatric unit. I think it would be interesting though to look and see what other conditions are deemed medical solely due to economic interests in discovering drugs.
Also on the ideas of bodies as objects in medical cases. I have a hard time viewing a conscious body as simply an object. Cadavers or people who have been knocked unconscious for a surgery maybe. But conscious people are not objects even in the medical field. Their is not a single child where I work that allowed themselves to be moved and manipulated is docile as we would expect an object. These children all have agency and are very very clear when they don't like the way a doctor parent or nurse is interacting with them.
I agree that it’s hard to view bodies as objects. I think it stems from the relationship we have with our own bodies. If someone else’s body can become an object, than so can ours. The idea that at some point we might have to forfeit our own autonomy is terrifying.
The True Cost documentary really made me think about the clothes in my own closet. How many of them would I still be wearing five years from now? Ten years from now? I think people – myself included – tend to buy for the present. It always seems to be a matter of styling for right now instead of thinking about the clothes we’ll want to wear long term. I think style was more prevalent in high school. That was definitely the case at my high school. There was always some new clothing trend. Clothing brands create visions of clothes that are stylish and popular. These visions permeate the high school social environment. Different articles and brands of clothing become status symbols. However, there is no end goal. There is always something newer and more stylish. I guess it speaks to that sort of universal consumer mindset – the idea that if we just buy one more thing, we’ll be happy. The problem is that the search for happiness via the material has no end. Social signals will keep telling us that we need more.
You bring up an interesting point regarding a "universal consumer mindset". I also feel like no matter who you are or what age you are, there is always that ingrained need to have the newest because of our association of it being the best - it's innovated, better than before, growing, evolving, etc. I remember at one point, when my family was financially unstable and could only afford the basic necessities. We couldn't shop as frequently or casually as we used to, and it came as a physical shock to us. Though, we learned from it. We were so ingrained in material objects, that we were hurt when we could no longer have want we wanted, though understood that there were things that we needed in place of them. All in all, it's a very difficult mindset to break, but eye opening once you do.
I agree that the clothing trends are for the present and it is constantly changing. It's also true that the idea of having the next best thing was seen most in a high school environment. I also fell into the trends and would always end up having a pile of clothes that were shoved in the back of my closet because they weren't 'cool' anymore. The movie has also made me aware of my wastefulness and how it affects people from other countries in a negative way.
Rowan, I completely agree. When I go home and I look in my closet, I see all these pieces of clothing that I only wore once, may still have the tag on them, or to be complete honest make me cringe at the fact that I actually bought something like that. But, as you explained the articles of clothing in my closet were a result of fashion trends in high school. Clothing styles were also important at my school and I agree that social signals told us we needed more and we felt happy and popular only when we had the newest styles to wear to school.
I completely agree with your argument Rowan. I, too, find myself in this loop of wanting to continuously buy more assuming that the next article of clothing would fill this unknown void that has been created due to consumerism. There's always something new and we, as consumers, have been manipulated to believe that we must keep up with the constantly shifting styles and market, but the truth is, unless we separate ourselves from the consumer mindset, we will continue to stay in this loop. The truth, however, is that this mindset has been engraved in us ever since childhood and to ignore or get rid of a lifelong habit is a battle.
Note. About to get a little bit tmi here talking about the female reproductive system. Though nothing extreme, just personal. Anyways, back to the topic on hand. In recent weeks, I found myself considering birth control for my menstruation issues. With regards to my health, I have never had a pap smear. I have never been to or consulted a gynecologist. My knowledge of gynecology was very limited in high school as I was never taught specifically about it in any sort of sex ed class, nor sought out information. I feel that to be a great mistake on my end, personally, after learning about the history and circumstances of gynecology in Terri Kapsalis’ reading. Reading the text as thoroughly as I did left me squeamish yet enlightened. At the cost of these women’s freedom, consent, and overall humanity, was a white man able to pioneer the field of women’s health. I found myself at even more odds when listening to the podcast on HeLa cells. Again, at the cost and expense of these women’s lives were doctors able to reach a higher understanding in the field of science and medicine. The question was posed in both of these media types, “Was it worth it in the end? To what extent is it for the good of humanity?” After all, how did either of these people know what results they would get, or whether or not it would be relevant in the long run? All in all, the best lesson that I’ve learned (or at least could make out of this) is to remain grateful and knowledgeable about past costs made in this field. While it is an uncomfortable topic to discuss, I feel like the teaching and understanding portion is what makes it for the greater good of humanity; we are able to reclaim some sense of our morals while having a grasp on past vices.
I also knew little about sexual health because of the limited information given in sex ed classes. The readings also made me feel squeamish, but I did learn a lot from it that I probably wouldn't have known if I hadn't read the texts. It was interesting, but sad to learn how we have gained so much knowledge about the female reproductive system.
You make a good point when you criticize the doctors for experimenting on women without any expected result. I agree that the ends don't necessarily justify the means when human welfare is concerned.
In my human sexuality class, we watched a movie about the difference between at home births and hospital births. The documentary was trying to persuade women to have at home births with a midwife because it is more natural and the woman gets more say in how she wants her baby delivered. The movie also noted that doctors in hospitals take several unnecessary precautions such as an iv to control contractions. The movie also went into detail about how in the past, doctors would make women feel as though there was something wrong with their pregnancy by convincing them to get a cesarean section. In reality, doctors preferred the c-section because they were scheduled and quick, so doctors could go home by a certain time and because it was more convenient for the doctor. This made me think about the movie 'Orgasm' and how certain doctors would make women feel like there was something wrong with them for not being able to feel sexual pleasure. Women would receive medications or would have to perform surgeries in the hopes of being 'cured', when in reality, there was nothing wrong with them.
I think the points you brought up relating the two cases were interesting. I really hope that they exagerated how big of an issue doctors pushing c sections is simply because of how that is a fairly invasive procedure which one would hope doctors would try to avoid. I think this brings u interesting questions including how culture would impact your choice of where and how to have a baby.
As I have been thinking about childhood objects and souvenirs for our upcoming essay I have been stuck on typical objects from my childhood. My teddy bear, my blanket, my favorite princess costume or even my Barbie’s. After talking to one of my softball teammate, it was made clear that the most influencing object in my life has been and is my softball glove. As a recently retired athlete, my softball glove has been apart of my life since I was 6. It has the ability to bring back memories of tball, rec ball, highschool and even my most recent college career. Now that I no longer play softball, my glove is a way for me to be reminded of joyful memories of playing the sport. This object is able to evoke nostalgia and memories that have occurred within 16 years of my life. It holds many of my greatest memories, sacrifices, struggles, friendships and accomplishments; which all flood back to me when I see it sitting on my shelf. Recently finishing my college career makes the nostalgia fresh, which I find will be easy to write about and understand how much this glove has impacted my life.
Andrea, This is a very interest childhood object you chose that I didn't even think about. Because I additionally am involved in athletics, I too know the significance of your first glove, bat or tennis racquet. I will never forget my first pink Adidas soccer ball with matching, or purple and pink Easton softball bat. In fact, now that I think about it, I still have my first bat and glove tucked away in my closet safe and sound. It is odd that we grow this attachment to these objects, but it is probably because without them we would not be where we are today, as successful as we are. My first glove is definitely one of my most treasured childhood object and thanks to your post, I now appreciate it even more!
When watching the documentary, "True Cost", I was astounded by how the fashion industry has made a dramatic and negative impact on both the lives of manufacturers and the environment. It amazes me that stores that I shop at such as Forever 21and H &M, where I thought I was getting good deals at, are actually crushing our environment because this cheap clothing often just gets thrown away. I myself find it hard to keep up with the current fashion trends because they are changing so fast, and I also am throwing away clothes I don't wear anymore. This video has made me more mindful of what I buy and I will no longer support buying cheap clothing that I will throw away, and now will buy more expensive stuff that I can keep for a long time.
The documentary made me feel the same way! I was sitting there, with tears rolling down my eyes, watching the horror that those people had to go through. I am not so sure I am going to buy expensive stuff (because I'm broke) but I will try to preserve what I have now so I can buy less.
I certainly agree with you and how you feel. I was always very ignorant to the methods of production that the fashion industry used, and the documentary reinforced that. The facet of the fashion industry that had upset me the most was the environmental impact it produces every single day. I never would have thought that the creation of clothes would disparage our world so deeply.
I completely agree with you. It's frightening to think of the impact fast fashion has on the world. The documentary also made me think of ways we can we can change the current system. I couldn't help but think if it's still possible to have factories that make clothes but in a safer more humanitarian way.
In week 6, we talked about the "hoodie." Nguyen pointed out how the hoodie helps to produce a racial optic because it deems someone to be threatening. It is very understanding how a hoodie can make someone seem mysterious but to add race to pieces of clothing that are not even cultural seems unjust. It is very sad to think that people have to die because of a simple act of wearing a hoodie. I think this whole concept also connects with the idea of people being scared of what they do not know. The hoodie gives the person wearing it the card of mystery. Because we do not know the identity of who is underneath, we are therefore powerless and therefore scared.
I agree with your view on being afraid of things we don't know. That's why I think it is important to educate people and ourselves on the diversity. Like, in high school, I have only heard of a few religions and studied American history. The World history textbooks were filled with biased history and many times I would question the validity of the words. I think, it would be great to include diversity in school history courses to allow students to have a strong base in the history of religions, customs, and practices, which would allow them to respect the people currently practicing those beliefs.
I also agree with your perspective, I also find it unfair that people make associations between a specific race and a piece of clothing. Not knowing can be a sign of not being in control or having power, but these actions don't justify the wrong doings that occur. The "hoodie" is a way to be discrete ones identity, a sense of mystery, although a hoodie is seen as an advantage it can also be seen as a disadvantage.
I agree as well. The racial disconnect between fabric and a person is rooted in, like you said, people being scared of what they dont know. A hoodie should not be a scary object, but it turns into one when people are scared, or uncomfortable with what is under it. The racial stereotyping that comes with wearing a hoodie is from how the media portrays the people wearing them.
True Cost,the documentary, is a reality of the place I was raised- Punjab, India. My family was one of the lucky ones that were able to leave farming behind because my grandfather was able to get education and got himself a government job. However, not everyone is so lucky, as we saw in the documentary. I think what we need to do is make a conscious effort to inform consumers. I don't think the average person understands what the cost of their purchase is. I think government should take an initiative as it does for the USA issues. For instance, FDA makes constant efforts to put labels on food products to allow consumers to make the best choice for themselves. Similarly, I think it should be mandatory to run ads/commercials that lets people know where their clothes come from.
It is really cool to hear about this from a first hand perspective. I completely agree with the idea that making a change in the garment industry all comes down to educating consumers. Before this documentary, I really did not think much about where my clothes came from, which is really sad to me. I think in order to make the biggest impact, we need to educate the young. We need to show kids at a very young age what the reality is behind out close and the fast-fashion industry.
Honestly I really loved this perspective. Its something I wouldve never thought of at all. I like how you related this to something meaningful such as your families past and im sure they worked so hard to get to where they are today. Your perspective on teaching young children about the clothing industry in various countries and its effect on people is something that is truly powerful and normally forgotten about. I think that you even mentioning this problem will even make me more aware. So thank you!
I could not agree more with this idea. I wish our society made conscious efforts to pay respect to where we purchase our clothing from. I really appreciate your perspective and am intrigued by your idea to publicize clothing morality whether it be on tags or in commercials and on media.
In thinking about the upcoming essay about a childhood object that creates sense of nostalgia, there are so many different objects that come to mind. However, many of them create nostalgia for reasons I can't really pinpoint. There is one object that really encompasses so many of my childhood memories - that is my bandana. In 4th grade I wore a bandana with two braids everyday....why? I really have no idea. To this day, when I see a bandana it reminds me of the smell of the 4th grade classroom, my teacher Mrs. P, and running around the play structure at lunch time. It reminds me of rushing back into the air-conditioned classroom after a hot recess and it especially reminds me of the dentist. To this day, my dentist still asks me "where is your bandana?!" And every time, I try and tell her I'm 21....not 12 anymore. My bandana creates a sense of nostalgia because the memories of my 4th grade year are so vivid...it still makes me laugh every time I think about wearing that bandana every day, and the fact that my parents let me out of the house looking like that! In analyzing this object, it truly makes me appreciate the small things in life and the importance of these objects in preserving memories.
It's amazing how an ordinary object may seem so plain to one person but to another can contain an entire childhood of memories. It's been interesting to try to find an object for my childhood because I have forgotten so much of it, but when I begin to look back so many memories come flooding back.
When watching the "True Cost" documentary in class, I realized how the body of a factory worker in the fashion industry is scrutinized and treated as an object. The owners of these factories really seem to think that these human workers are robots or unstoppable entities that can withstand all of the horrific conditions they are subject to work in. I understand that capitalism demands for products to be produced efficiently and quickly in order to increase profits, but these huge corporations certainly have enough money to improve their factories and salaries for these holistically disadvantages factory workers that are essentially slaves. It is tragic to see how the objectification of these human beings in brushed under the rug so frequently and ubiquitously. To reinstate my earlier opinion, I feel like a lot of corporations could afford to improve the conditions of the factories for their workers and treat them much more ethically by making a few simple adjustments. Clothes could still be produced quickly and at a decent quality if workers had safer, remodeled factories, a slightly higher wage, and kinder and more empathetic bosses and company leaders.
When I watched the documentary of "True Cost" made me reflection back on the clothes I wear and where I buy them. I always thought that sweatshops were the problem, but I never actually expanded my horizons on other factors that are also the problem. The fashion industry, money hungry companies, and those of us who buy those products are also the problem because we continue to allow this problem to happen. It's an endless cycle that needs to be changed somehow. The fashion industry has made and continues to make a negative impact the lives of the workers and the environment. The workers who work in making the product are in horrible working conditions and these companies are negatively affecting the environment, sometimes even causing individuals to get sick. I shop at H&M, Forever 21, and Walmart and I didn't realize that my purchase contributed to the continuation of this cycle that impacts many people's lives. I feel like society conditions consumers to buy the newest fashion piece or whats new because they use billboards and social media to target people to buy a product, without realizing the damage their causing. This association between happiness and materialistic objects exists. Workers need better working conditions and understand that happiness isn't clothes or objects.
As I watched the documentary "True Cost", like many of you it made me take a closer look and reconsider what I am wearing and who I buy from. We are so privileged to live in a country as incredible as the one we do, but that makes it that much easier to forget the pain and suffering that so many people in the world endure. When I was in Guatemala doing mission work we took a day to visit some women that make textiles to support their families and to provide work and a future for victims of human trafficking. It was incredible to meet these women who worked tirelessly to hopefully give their children a better future, despite the poverty and violence that plagues the area. It's even crazier to think that there are places with even worse conditions than Guatemala, and all in the name of lining a CEO's already enormously fat pockets. I have seen first hand the devastation the fast fashion industry has brought, but it isn't too late to change the cycle, and the easiest way to begin is to watch where we shop.
I am going to talk about the souvenir as telling a story. We learned about this from our recent class and also realized that this is an object that only tells apart of something but as well of why we even have such things that we give to people. I was able to reflect upon this as I also started to wonder why I even give things to people who may or may not even want them. I guess that the purpose of giving a gift for me has always been to mainly make the person feel special. That I saw something that made me think of them while I was away. I have traveled a lot and always have made time to do souvenir shopping. It brings back memories because it is something that is almost routine. I feel that leaving a place traveled to without having an item to bring back also commemorates the trip in some way and now brings the past into something of the present. The item becomes a timeless piece.
As a person who doesn't buy many souvenirs on vacations with friends or family if any at all, your point about how not having an item to commemorate the trip is true. Although I could rely on my memory about these trips for a couple years, I would definitely forget a big portion of the trip. If I were to have an item to rejuvenate my memory however, it would bring back memories for certain because now I have a tangible thing to physically remind me of what occurred during that time.
When we were going over the concepts of the authenticity of souvenirs in class, it reminded me of the six flags refillable souvenir water bottles. Although it didn’t really stick out to me as a representative souvenir that someone gets from another country at first, it technically performs the same function. When I first thought about the water bottle it directly led my mind to the theme park Six Flags Magic Mountain and the enormous and fun roller coasters and as an individual who loves crazy rides, it was like a blessing. These were my initial thoughts; however, when I contemplated about the events more it unveiled the real memories. At the theme park during that time, the lines were incredibly long and the weather over there was over 90 degrees so the conditions of waiting in line were atrocious. Although I had a frozen water bottle in my bag, it didn’t last very long since I could only drink what melted and couldn’t do much if I wanted any water without spending any money. After hours of waiting in line, I couldn’t take it anymore so I had to go out and buy the refillable souvenir water bottles to get my money's worth, but even so the price of the souvenir itself was pretty expensive just for some refillable beverage that I could get for about a dollar at most fast food places. This is a prime example of how the nostalgic events that souvenir provokes an exaggerated positive version of the true thing and how it only reminds the owner only of the positive sides of the excursion.
When we started talking about souvenirs, I started thinking more about my relationship with them. I wanted to know when and why I got a souvenir, either for myself or for someone else. I actually came to the conclusion that I don’t even buy souvenirs. I had a hard time thinking of souvenirs to write about in class. I don’t know if that is a good or bad thing. I think I don’t buy souvenirs because im trying to enjoy the moment so I don’t think about stopping to get something to preserve that moment. That can also be negative too because I often find myself wanted something to trigger that nostalgic feeling. We talked about how kids usually have to have souvenirs bought for them because they are unable to carry that memory without it. I think that’s the opposite of what I try to do. I try to enjoy the moment as best I can and remember it because it affected me, not because I looked at a key chain.
I really liked your post because I actually agree. I feel that when we are traveling, it is important to enjoy the moment rather than focusing on what we should buy or what pictures we need to take, etc. although these are important, enjoying the moment is what is more important. Imagine buying a souvenir from a place where you didn't enjoy your time there? I definitely agree with you on this.
I agree with you, some of the most vivid memories I have are brought to me by certain phrases or inside jokes, instead of material objects. I think its because these things mark a particular moment while souvenirs usually represent a longer period of time.
I wanted to discuss the documentary "True Cost." The documentary really opened my eyes to the fashion industry, which is something I am very interested in. It made me realize how much we've changed in terms of production and how we consume what is being produced. I have recently found myself discussing with my mother how things are so accessible in everyone's lives whether it be a google shirt or a t-shirt or a uber and many more examples. Overall, consumption has become a disease that has consumed us, ironic. What's even worse is that we do not question nor do we bother to figure out how we have access to all these resources. We do not give a second thought to the people we may be harming in order for us to have what we want. What's even worse is that we have made it difficult to reverse what we have done. Now, so many rely on the labour extensive work it takes to get what we want, to survive their own lives. It's a cycle of using others and manipulation.
The documentary 'The True Cost' had a huge impact on me. I knew that fast fashion was damaging, but I was not aware of just how negative its impact is. My birthday was last weekend, and friends and family members were generous enough to get me gifts, but some of the items they got for me were from fast fashion stores. It got me thinking about how real change will take place when people collectively choose to value clothing that is made ethically. For example, after seeing the documentary, I want to make an effort to only buy from stores that produce their clothing ethically, but in order to make this change, I have to make sure that my friends and family are also on board with the idea because they impact the types of material items I own.
This documentary had a major impact on me as well. I had no idea this industry was second largest next to the oil industry which blows my mind. I wish people valued clothing that was made ethically. I think one of the major problems with people not buying ethically is because they are unaware of the fast fashion industry. I appreciate your post and your awareness to this issue.
When learning about souvenirs in class, it opened my eyes to how meaningful they are. I realized that every time I travel whether it is somewhere close like LA or somewhere out of the country I try to make sure I buy souvenirs for me and my family. My sister collects Starbucks cups and she makes sure she buys them at every Starbucks she visits. Although it is just a mug labeled with the city she's been to, it an definitely bring back memories and means something.
With the recent topic of objects and souvenirs, I began to think about how much an object has meaning and more specifically how a souvenir holds meaning and a story. It is interesting to me how one thing can bring up so many memories and represent an entire experience or an entire childhood. For myself, my entire childhood can easily be represented by one object; a softball. my entire childhood has been consumed of softball since I was four years old. With playing catch with my dad for the first time and both of my parents always being ion the stands at my games or taking me to practice. Softball has consumed my life up until just a few days ago but no one would know this through just the object of a softball, only I hold meaning behind this object. I am so interested in how objects hold meaning and "stories" to others because only that person knows the true meaning behind their object or souvenir.
The True Cost documentary really made me think about clothes and why we constantly keep buying clothes. This led me to think about how and why we chose what we wear. We worry about style because it can reveal a lot about who we are. Although most of us follow popular trends, our style will always be different than others. Clothes make a very important first impression, they are usually the first thing people notice on others. We often try to change our appearance to manipulate how others view us. Clothes can also make us feel differently. For example, I've been wearing the same style of boots for a couple years now. I wear pointed, ankle high boots that have heels. I wear this style of boots all the time because they make me feel more confident. The style of the boots make me look taller and more sophisticated. It's interesting to see how clothes and style can impact the way we feel and act.
When watching the True Cost documentary, I was reminded of how small our world really is. Oddly enough, the documentary reminded me of the smoking commercials by The Real Cost campaign. In addition to their similar names, both are actually about the general idea that something we may feel is personal is actually quite large. Smoking a cigarette may seem like it only affects you but in reality it has an impact on others lives, the environment, and the economic world. The True Cost helped put this in perspective. The way we treat clothing in a materialist culture seems that we only see how it affects us, when in reality it can destroy our world.
I've been thinking about how souvenirs are often small pieces of debris or otherwise useless objects. I have a few souvenirs that anyone else would throw away, and it made me realize that the value of the souvenir is entirely assigned to it by the owner. A mass-produced knick knack someone might buy in a gift shop is no different from the other ten clones of itself in the store. What makes it special is that when you buy it or someone gifts it to you, your memories and experiences magically get contained in the souvenir. It holds whatever story you use to remember the experience.
Preface: Writing this because I have no idea when it is due and want to cover my bases. I wrote about my thoughts on the medicalization of drugs and the theme of economic medicalization from the documentary as well as my own experiences working in the pediatric unit at UCDMC.
ReplyDeleteI think it is really interesting how conditions are being medicalized by non medical professionals for economic purposes. I am interested in going into medicine so I think its really important that we keep this in mind to minimize ineffective drugs that we give people for "conditions" that in reality don't need to be treated.
The orgasm documentary made me wonder how prevalent the issue of economical medicalization is. I work at the UC davis medical center and none of the doctors or nurses are bad people. I can't imagine any of them knowingly prescribing medication or procedures that were completely necessary, especially since it is the pediatric unit. I think it would be interesting though to look and see what other conditions are deemed medical solely due to economic interests in discovering drugs.
Also on the ideas of bodies as objects in medical cases. I have a hard time viewing a conscious body as simply an object. Cadavers or people who have been knocked unconscious for a surgery maybe. But conscious people are not objects even in the medical field. Their is not a single child where I work that allowed themselves to be moved and manipulated is docile as we would expect an object. These children all have agency and are very very clear when they don't like the way a doctor parent or nurse is interacting with them.
I agree that it’s hard to view bodies as objects. I think it stems from the relationship we have with our own bodies. If someone else’s body can become an object, than so can ours. The idea that at some point we might have to forfeit our own autonomy is terrifying.
DeleteThe True Cost documentary really made me think about the clothes in my own closet. How many of them would I still be wearing five years from now? Ten years from now? I think people – myself included – tend to buy for the present. It always seems to be a matter of styling for right now instead of thinking about the clothes we’ll want to wear long term. I think style was more prevalent in high school. That was definitely the case at my high school. There was always some new clothing trend. Clothing brands create visions of clothes that are stylish and popular. These visions permeate the high school social environment. Different articles and brands of clothing become status symbols. However, there is no end goal. There is always something newer and more stylish. I guess it speaks to that sort of universal consumer mindset – the idea that if we just buy one more thing, we’ll be happy. The problem is that the search for happiness via the material has no end. Social signals will keep telling us that we need more.
ReplyDeleteYou bring up an interesting point regarding a "universal consumer mindset". I also feel like no matter who you are or what age you are, there is always that ingrained need to have the newest because of our association of it being the best - it's innovated, better than before, growing, evolving, etc. I remember at one point, when my family was financially unstable and could only afford the basic necessities. We couldn't shop as frequently or casually as we used to, and it came as a physical shock to us. Though, we learned from it. We were so ingrained in material objects, that we were hurt when we could no longer have want we wanted, though understood that there were things that we needed in place of them. All in all, it's a very difficult mindset to break, but eye opening once you do.
DeleteI agree that the clothing trends are for the present and it is constantly changing. It's also true that the idea of having the next best thing was seen most in a high school environment. I also fell into the trends and would always end up having a pile of clothes that were shoved in the back of my closet because they weren't 'cool' anymore. The movie has also made me aware of my wastefulness and how it affects people from other countries in a negative way.
DeleteRowan, I completely agree. When I go home and I look in my closet, I see all these pieces of clothing that I only wore once, may still have the tag on them, or to be complete honest make me cringe at the fact that I actually bought something like that. But, as you explained the articles of clothing in my closet were a result of fashion trends in high school. Clothing styles were also important at my school and I agree that social signals told us we needed more and we felt happy and popular only when we had the newest styles to wear to school.
DeleteI completely agree with your argument Rowan. I, too, find myself in this loop of wanting to continuously buy more assuming that the next article of clothing would fill this unknown void that has been created due to consumerism. There's always something new and we, as consumers, have been manipulated to believe that we must keep up with the constantly shifting styles and market, but the truth is, unless we separate ourselves from the consumer mindset, we will continue to stay in this loop. The truth, however, is that this mindset has been engraved in us ever since childhood and to ignore or get rid of a lifelong habit is a battle.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteNote. About to get a little bit tmi here talking about the female reproductive system. Though nothing extreme, just personal. Anyways, back to the topic on hand. In recent weeks, I found myself considering birth control for my menstruation issues. With regards to my health, I have never had a pap smear. I have never been to or consulted a gynecologist. My knowledge of gynecology was very limited in high school as I was never taught specifically about it in any sort of sex ed class, nor sought out information. I feel that to be a great mistake on my end, personally, after learning about the history and circumstances of gynecology in Terri Kapsalis’ reading. Reading the text as thoroughly as I did left me squeamish yet enlightened. At the cost of these women’s freedom, consent, and overall humanity, was a white man able to pioneer the field of women’s health. I found myself at even more odds when listening to the podcast on HeLa cells. Again, at the cost and expense of these women’s lives were doctors able to reach a higher understanding in the field of science and medicine. The question was posed in both of these media types, “Was it worth it in the end? To what extent is it for the good of humanity?” After all, how did either of these people know what results they would get, or whether or not it would be relevant in the long run? All in all, the best lesson that I’ve learned (or at least could make out of this) is to remain grateful and knowledgeable about past costs made in this field. While it is an uncomfortable topic to discuss, I feel like the teaching and understanding portion is what makes it for the greater good of humanity; we are able to reclaim some sense of our morals while having a grasp on past vices.
ReplyDeleteI also knew little about sexual health because of the limited information given in sex ed classes. The readings also made me feel squeamish, but I did learn a lot from it that I probably wouldn't have known if I hadn't read the texts. It was interesting, but sad to learn how we have gained so much knowledge about the female reproductive system.
DeleteYou make a good point when you criticize the doctors for experimenting on women without any expected result. I agree that the ends don't necessarily justify the means when human welfare is concerned.
DeleteIn my human sexuality class, we watched a movie about the difference between at home births and hospital births. The documentary was trying to persuade women to have at home births with a midwife because it is more natural and the woman gets more say in how she wants her baby delivered. The movie also noted that doctors in hospitals take several unnecessary precautions such as an iv to control contractions. The movie also went into detail about how in the past, doctors would make women feel as though there was something wrong with their pregnancy by convincing them to get a cesarean section. In reality, doctors preferred the c-section because they were scheduled and quick, so doctors could go home by a certain time and because it was more convenient for the doctor. This made me think about the movie 'Orgasm' and how certain doctors would make women feel like there was something wrong with them for not being able to feel sexual pleasure. Women would receive medications or would have to perform surgeries in the hopes of being 'cured', when in reality, there was nothing wrong with them.
ReplyDeleteI think the points you brought up relating the two cases were interesting. I really hope that they exagerated how big of an issue doctors pushing c sections is simply because of how that is a fairly invasive procedure which one would hope doctors would try to avoid. I think this brings u interesting questions including how culture would impact your choice of where and how to have a baby.
Delete
ReplyDeleteAs I have been thinking about childhood objects and souvenirs for our upcoming essay I have been stuck on typical objects from my childhood. My teddy bear, my blanket, my favorite princess costume or even my Barbie’s. After talking to one of my softball teammate, it was made clear that the most influencing object in my life has been and is my softball glove. As a recently retired athlete, my softball glove has been apart of my life since I was 6. It has the ability to bring back memories of tball, rec ball, highschool and even my most recent college career. Now that I no longer play softball, my glove is a way for me to be reminded of joyful memories of playing the sport. This object is able to evoke nostalgia and memories that have occurred within 16 years of my life. It holds many of my greatest memories, sacrifices, struggles, friendships and accomplishments; which all flood back to me when I see it sitting on my shelf. Recently finishing my college career makes the nostalgia fresh, which I find will be easy to write about and understand how much this glove has impacted my life.
Andrea,
DeleteThis is a very interest childhood object you chose that I didn't even think about. Because I additionally am involved in athletics, I too know the significance of your first glove, bat or tennis racquet. I will never forget my first pink Adidas soccer ball with matching, or purple and pink Easton softball bat. In fact, now that I think about it, I still have my first bat and glove tucked away in my closet safe and sound. It is odd that we grow this attachment to these objects, but it is probably because without them we would not be where we are today, as successful as we are. My first glove is definitely one of my most treasured childhood object and thanks to your post, I now appreciate it even more!
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhen watching the documentary, "True Cost", I was astounded by how the fashion industry has made a dramatic and negative impact on both the lives of manufacturers and the environment. It amazes me that stores that I shop at such as Forever 21and H &M, where I thought I was getting good deals at, are actually crushing our environment because this cheap clothing often just gets thrown away. I myself find it hard to keep up with the current fashion trends because they are changing so fast, and I also am throwing away clothes I don't wear anymore. This video has made me more mindful of what I buy and I will no longer support buying cheap clothing that I will throw away, and now will buy more expensive stuff that I can keep for a long time.
ReplyDeleteThe documentary made me feel the same way! I was sitting there, with tears rolling down my eyes, watching the horror that those people had to go through. I am not so sure I am going to buy expensive stuff (because I'm broke) but I will try to preserve what I have now so I can buy less.
DeleteI certainly agree with you and how you feel. I was always very ignorant to the methods of production that the fashion industry used, and the documentary reinforced that. The facet of the fashion industry that had upset me the most was the environmental impact it produces every single day. I never would have thought that the creation of clothes would disparage our world so deeply.
DeleteI completely agree with you. It's frightening to think of the impact fast fashion has on the world. The documentary also made me think of ways we can we can change the current system. I couldn't help but think if it's still possible to have factories that make clothes but in a safer more humanitarian way.
DeleteIn week 6, we talked about the "hoodie." Nguyen pointed out how the hoodie helps to produce a racial optic because it deems someone to be threatening. It is very understanding how a hoodie can make someone seem mysterious but to add race to pieces of clothing that are not even cultural seems unjust. It is very sad to think that people have to die because of a simple act of wearing a hoodie. I think this whole concept also connects with the idea of people being scared of what they do not know. The hoodie gives the person wearing it the card of mystery. Because we do not know the identity of who is underneath, we are therefore powerless and therefore scared.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your view on being afraid of things we don't know. That's why I think it is important to educate people and ourselves on the diversity. Like, in high school, I have only heard of a few religions and studied American history. The World history textbooks were filled with biased history and many times I would question the validity of the words. I think, it would be great to include diversity in school history courses to allow students to have a strong base in the history of religions, customs, and practices, which would allow them to respect the people currently practicing those beliefs.
DeleteI also agree with your perspective, I also find it unfair that people make associations between a specific race and a piece of clothing. Not knowing can be a sign of not being in control or having power, but these actions don't justify the wrong doings that occur. The "hoodie" is a way to be discrete ones identity, a sense of mystery, although a hoodie is seen as an advantage it can also be seen as a disadvantage.
DeleteI agree as well. The racial disconnect between fabric and a person is rooted in, like you said, people being scared of what they dont know. A hoodie should not be a scary object, but it turns into one when people are scared, or uncomfortable with what is under it. The racial stereotyping that comes with wearing a hoodie is from how the media portrays the people wearing them.
DeleteTrue Cost,the documentary, is a reality of the place I was raised- Punjab, India. My family was one of the lucky ones that were able to leave farming behind because my grandfather was able to get education and got himself a government job. However, not everyone is so lucky, as we saw in the documentary. I think what we need to do is make a conscious effort to inform consumers. I don't think the average person understands what the cost of their purchase is. I think government should take an initiative as it does for the USA issues. For instance, FDA makes constant efforts to put labels on food products to allow consumers to make the best choice for themselves. Similarly, I think it should be mandatory to run ads/commercials that lets people know where their clothes come from.
ReplyDeleteIt is really cool to hear about this from a first hand perspective. I completely agree with the idea that making a change in the garment industry all comes down to educating consumers. Before this documentary, I really did not think much about where my clothes came from, which is really sad to me. I think in order to make the biggest impact, we need to educate the young. We need to show kids at a very young age what the reality is behind out close and the fast-fashion industry.
DeleteHonestly I really loved this perspective. Its something I wouldve never thought of at all. I like how you related this to something meaningful such as your families past and im sure they worked so hard to get to where they are today. Your perspective on teaching young children about the clothing industry in various countries and its effect on people is something that is truly powerful and normally forgotten about. I think that you even mentioning this problem will even make me more aware. So thank you!
DeleteI could not agree more with this idea. I wish our society made conscious efforts to pay respect to where we purchase our clothing from. I really appreciate your perspective and am intrigued by your idea to publicize clothing morality whether it be on tags or in commercials and on media.
DeleteIn thinking about the upcoming essay about a childhood object that creates sense of nostalgia, there are so many different objects that come to mind. However, many of them create nostalgia for reasons I can't really pinpoint. There is one object that really encompasses so many of my childhood memories - that is my bandana. In 4th grade I wore a bandana with two braids everyday....why? I really have no idea. To this day, when I see a bandana it reminds me of the smell of the 4th grade classroom, my teacher Mrs. P, and running around the play structure at lunch time. It reminds me of rushing back into the air-conditioned classroom after a hot recess and it especially reminds me of the dentist. To this day, my dentist still asks me "where is your bandana?!" And every time, I try and tell her I'm 21....not 12 anymore. My bandana creates a sense of nostalgia because the memories of my 4th grade year are so vivid...it still makes me laugh every time I think about wearing that bandana every day, and the fact that my parents let me out of the house looking like that! In analyzing this object, it truly makes me appreciate the small things in life and the importance of these objects in preserving memories.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing how an ordinary object may seem so plain to one person but to another can contain an entire childhood of memories. It's been interesting to try to find an object for my childhood because I have forgotten so much of it, but when I begin to look back so many memories come flooding back.
DeleteWhen watching the "True Cost" documentary in class, I realized how the body of a factory worker in the fashion industry is scrutinized and treated as an object. The owners of these factories really seem to think that these human workers are robots or unstoppable entities that can withstand all of the horrific conditions they are subject to work in. I understand that capitalism demands for products to be produced efficiently and quickly in order to increase profits, but these huge corporations certainly have enough money to improve their factories and salaries for these holistically disadvantages factory workers that are essentially slaves. It is tragic to see how the objectification of these human beings in brushed under the rug so frequently and ubiquitously. To reinstate my earlier opinion, I feel like a lot of corporations could afford to improve the conditions of the factories for their workers and treat them much more ethically by making a few simple adjustments. Clothes could still be produced quickly and at a decent quality if workers had safer, remodeled factories, a slightly higher wage, and kinder and more empathetic bosses and company leaders.
ReplyDeleteWhen I watched the documentary of "True Cost" made me reflection back on the clothes I wear and where I buy them. I always thought that sweatshops were the problem, but I never actually expanded my horizons on other factors that are also the problem. The fashion industry, money hungry companies, and those of us who buy those products are also the problem because we continue to allow this problem to happen. It's an endless cycle that needs to be changed somehow. The fashion industry has made and continues to make a negative impact the lives of the workers and the environment. The workers who work in making the product are in horrible working conditions and these companies are negatively affecting the environment, sometimes even causing individuals to get sick. I shop at H&M, Forever 21, and Walmart and I didn't realize that my purchase contributed to the continuation of this cycle that impacts many people's lives. I feel like society conditions consumers to buy the newest fashion piece or whats new because they use billboards and social media to target people to buy a product, without realizing the damage their causing. This association between happiness and materialistic objects exists. Workers need better working conditions and understand that happiness isn't clothes or objects.
ReplyDeleteAs I watched the documentary "True Cost", like many of you it made me take a closer look and reconsider what I am wearing and who I buy from. We are so privileged to live in a country as incredible as the one we do, but that makes it that much easier to forget the pain and suffering that so many people in the world endure. When I was in Guatemala doing mission work we took a day to visit some women that make textiles to support their families and to provide work and a future for victims of human trafficking. It was incredible to meet these women who worked tirelessly to hopefully give their children a better future, despite the poverty and violence that plagues the area. It's even crazier to think that there are places with even worse conditions than Guatemala, and all in the name of lining a CEO's already enormously fat pockets. I have seen first hand the devastation the fast fashion industry has brought, but it isn't too late to change the cycle, and the easiest way to begin is to watch where we shop.
ReplyDeleteI am going to talk about the souvenir as telling a story. We learned about this from our recent class and also realized that this is an object that only tells apart of something but as well of why we even have such things that we give to people. I was able to reflect upon this as I also started to wonder why I even give things to people who may or may not even want them. I guess that the purpose of giving a gift for me has always been to mainly make the person feel special. That I saw something that made me think of them while I was away. I have traveled a lot and always have made time to do souvenir shopping. It brings back memories because it is something that is almost routine. I feel that leaving a place traveled to without having an item to bring back also commemorates the trip in some way and now brings the past into something of the present. The item becomes a timeless piece.
ReplyDeleteAs a person who doesn't buy many souvenirs on vacations with friends or family if any at all, your point about how not having an item to commemorate the trip is true. Although I could rely on my memory about these trips for a couple years, I would definitely forget a big portion of the trip. If I were to have an item to rejuvenate my memory however, it would bring back memories for certain because now I have a tangible thing to physically remind me of what occurred during that time.
DeleteWhen we were going over the concepts of the authenticity of souvenirs in class, it reminded me of the six flags refillable souvenir water bottles. Although it didn’t really stick out to me as a representative souvenir that someone gets from another country at first, it technically performs the same function. When I first thought about the water bottle it directly led my mind to the theme park Six Flags Magic Mountain and the enormous and fun roller coasters and as an individual who loves crazy rides, it was like a blessing. These were my initial thoughts; however, when I contemplated about the events more it unveiled the real memories. At the theme park during that time, the lines were incredibly long and the weather over there was over 90 degrees so the conditions of waiting in line were atrocious. Although I had a frozen water bottle in my bag, it didn’t last very long since I could only drink what melted and couldn’t do much if I wanted any water without spending any money. After hours of waiting in line, I couldn’t take it anymore so I had to go out and buy the refillable souvenir water bottles to get my money's worth, but even so the price of the souvenir itself was pretty expensive just for some refillable beverage that I could get for about a dollar at most fast food places. This is a prime example of how the nostalgic events that souvenir provokes an exaggerated positive version of the true thing and how it only reminds the owner only of the positive sides of the excursion.
ReplyDeleteWhen we started talking about souvenirs, I started thinking more about my relationship with them. I wanted to know when and why I got a souvenir, either for myself or for someone else. I actually came to the conclusion that I don’t even buy souvenirs. I had a hard time thinking of souvenirs to write about in class. I don’t know if that is a good or bad thing. I think I don’t buy souvenirs because im trying to enjoy the moment so I don’t think about stopping to get something to preserve that moment. That can also be negative too because I often find myself wanted something to trigger that nostalgic feeling. We talked about how kids usually have to have souvenirs bought for them because they are unable to carry that memory without it. I think that’s the opposite of what I try to do. I try to enjoy the moment as best I can and remember it because it affected me, not because I looked at a key chain.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your post because I actually agree. I feel that when we are traveling, it is important to enjoy the moment rather than focusing on what we should buy or what pictures we need to take, etc. although these are important, enjoying the moment is what is more important. Imagine buying a souvenir from a place where you didn't enjoy your time there? I definitely agree with you on this.
DeleteI agree with you, some of the most vivid memories I have are brought to me by certain phrases or inside jokes, instead of material objects. I think its because these things mark a particular moment while souvenirs usually represent a longer period of time.
DeleteI wanted to discuss the documentary "True Cost." The documentary really opened my eyes to the fashion industry, which is something I am very interested in. It made me realize how much we've changed in terms of production and how we consume what is being produced. I have recently found myself discussing with my mother how things are so accessible in everyone's lives whether it be a google shirt or a t-shirt or a uber and many more examples. Overall, consumption has become a disease that has consumed us, ironic. What's even worse is that we do not question nor do we bother to figure out how we have access to all these resources. We do not give a second thought to the people we may be harming in order for us to have what we want. What's even worse is that we have made it difficult to reverse what we have done. Now, so many rely on the labour extensive work it takes to get what we want, to survive their own lives. It's a cycle of using others and manipulation.
ReplyDeleteThe documentary 'The True Cost' had a huge impact on me. I knew that fast fashion was damaging, but I was not aware of just how negative its impact is. My birthday was last weekend, and friends and family members were generous enough to get me gifts, but some of the items they got for me were from fast fashion stores. It got me thinking about how real change will take place when people collectively choose to value clothing that is made ethically. For example, after seeing the documentary, I want to make an effort to only buy from stores that produce their clothing ethically, but in order to make this change, I have to make sure that my friends and family are also on board with the idea because they impact the types of material items I own.
ReplyDeleteThis documentary had a major impact on me as well. I had no idea this industry was second largest next to the oil industry which blows my mind. I wish people valued clothing that was made ethically. I think one of the major problems with people not buying ethically is because they are unaware of the fast fashion industry. I appreciate your post and your awareness to this issue.
DeleteWhen learning about souvenirs in class, it opened my eyes to how meaningful they are. I realized that every time I travel whether it is somewhere close like LA or somewhere out of the country I try to make sure I buy souvenirs for me and my family. My sister collects Starbucks cups and she makes sure she buys them at every Starbucks she visits. Although it is just a mug labeled with the city she's been to, it an definitely bring back memories and means something.
ReplyDeleteWith the recent topic of objects and souvenirs, I began to think about how much an object has meaning and more specifically how a souvenir holds meaning and a story. It is interesting to me how one thing can bring up so many memories and represent an entire experience or an entire childhood. For myself, my entire childhood can easily be represented by one object; a softball. my entire childhood has been consumed of softball since I was four years old. With playing catch with my dad for the first time and both of my parents always being ion the stands at my games or taking me to practice. Softball has consumed my life up until just a few days ago but no one would know this through just the object of a softball, only I hold meaning behind this object. I am so interested in how objects hold meaning and "stories" to others because only that person knows the true meaning behind their object or souvenir.
ReplyDeleteThe True Cost documentary really made me think about clothes and why we constantly keep buying clothes. This led me to think about how and why we chose what we wear. We worry about style because it can reveal a lot about who we are. Although most of us follow popular trends, our style will always be different than others. Clothes make a very important first impression, they are usually the first thing people notice on others. We often try to change our appearance to manipulate how others view us. Clothes can also make us feel differently. For example, I've been wearing the same style of boots for a couple years now. I wear pointed, ankle high boots that have heels. I wear this style of boots all the time because they make me feel more confident. The style of the boots make me look taller and more sophisticated. It's interesting to see how clothes and style can impact the way we feel and act.
ReplyDeleteWhen watching the True Cost documentary, I was reminded of how small our world really is. Oddly enough, the documentary reminded me of the smoking commercials by The Real Cost campaign. In addition to their similar names, both are actually about the general idea that something we may feel is personal is actually quite large. Smoking a cigarette may seem like it only affects you but in reality it has an impact on others lives, the environment, and the economic world. The True Cost helped put this in perspective. The way we treat clothing in a materialist culture seems that we only see how it affects us, when in reality it can destroy our world.
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about how souvenirs are often small pieces of debris or otherwise useless objects. I have a few souvenirs that anyone else would throw away, and it made me realize that the value of the souvenir is entirely assigned to it by the owner. A mass-produced knick knack someone might buy in a gift shop is no different from the other ten clones of itself in the store. What makes it special is that when you buy it or someone gifts it to you, your memories and experiences magically get contained in the souvenir. It holds whatever story you use to remember the experience.
ReplyDelete