That really got me thinking, what stats does this announcer have to prove that the US is the only country that helps people in need. We have learned to analyze media critically and this is a great example. The announcer had good intentions by trying to demonstrate patriotism and show his support for the survivors of Hurricane Sandy.
However, this statement seems very farfetched. He may believe that America is the greatest country in the world and he is entitled to his opinion. Contrarily, he is saying no country in any circumstance helps out its citizens when a disaster strikes.
Do you think the announcer had reason to say this statement? Why? And why do you think people accept this bold kind of speech without questioning it? Leave comments below
I agree with your thoughts on the announcer. I see no reason that other countries' citizens wouldn't help each other in times of crisis. But not only did he grossly underestimate other counties, he also completely overestimated America. I don't know how many people volunteered to go help the relief effort, or how many people donated to the cause, but I am certain not everyone in the US did. I don't mean to take everything this guy said literally, but like you said, you can't just go on about how great your country is when it's no better than the others. Also, the announcer makes it seem like the people who are donating and volunteering are sacrificing everything: "and give up their houses to help." I've done community work before, but at no point was I required to give up anything more that my time.
ReplyDeleteI think all of this over-exaggeration was supposed to make everyone more patriotic somehow. It also would make people feel better after a disaster, so they have no reason to question it. It may be a cheap way to boost morale, but I don't think that it's a good way to do it.
I agree with Sean's latter point. The announcer did have fair reason to say it, even if his statement was not statistically sound. At a concert/rally like this, the main point is to raise money and raise patriotic spirits. With that goal in mind, I think it made sense for him to say it despite it obviously being false.
ReplyDeleteAnd to just think about his comment in a broader context, not necessarily as the only country, America certainly seems to be invested in aid abroad more than other countries. I have no evidence to back this up, I'm only making this conjecture based on what I see on the news.
Sean, I completely agree with your statement about giving time, not your house. Obviously this is a more drastic situation; however, you do not hear about that many people giving up their houses.
DeleteColin, You bring up a good point about how America seemingly gives significant aid. On the contrary, are they the "only" country that does this?
In general, America is very generous in helping people out. The bigger point that I'm trying to scrutinize is analyzing media critically.
What does the announcer's comment say about the way people speak before they think? In what ways, if at all, does this reflect the American identity? Does his comment hint at American superiority?