Achebes views on Racism

Chinua Achebe, a great African novelist, gave a detailed review of the work done by Joseph Conrad titled ‘Heart of Darkness’. This book gave an encounter of Conrad in Africa, especially parts of Congo and other regions of West Africa. The book gives an account of how Africa, as a continent and Africans, as the inhabitants of this continent, are yet to come to the civilization reality.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Achebe’s views on Racism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This book, just as the title suggests, portrays Africa in a very bad taste. It paints Africa as the heart of darkness. Just as their skins are, so are their deeds and their culture in general (Conrad 31). The book, well written with a good sense of humor and a deep understanding of stylistic devices, brings out Africans as people who are not only dark in their skin but also from their heart, as is reflected in their acts and their culture in general. Achebe says, â€Å"I am talking about a book, which parades in the most vulgar fashion prejudices, and insults from which a section of humankind has suffered untold agonies and atrocities in the past and continues to do so in many ways and many places today† (Achebe 4). Achebe appreciates the fact that when Conrad visited Africa, Africans were not as advanced in technology as was the western world. Africa was considered uncultured according to western standards, and whites had low opinion about them. He notes in this review, â€Å"It was certainly not his fault that he lived his life at a time when the reputation of the black man was at a particularly low level† (Achebe 5). He appreciates the fact that writings of Conrad might have been overshadowed by the then view of whites towards blacks. When they went to Africa, the whites found Africans a little too awkward in culture and the fact that they managed to manipulate them in their own contin ent was a proof enough that their way of life was far below that of whites. This is what is reflected in this book, ‘The Heart of Darkness’. Achebe laments that the image painted by this novelist is still held by many people in the western countries, especially in the United States of America. This review was done this same time. Racism was real and Africans were treated as second-class citizens in this land. He recalls a discussion he had with a certain white man, a mature student in the college he was teaching. â€Å"What did I teach? Now that was funny, he said† (Achebe 1). Why would it be funny to teach African literature?Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This was something that troubled Achebe so much. At the same institution, there were lecturers teaching American literature, Asian literature, literature of Greeks, and many other cultures across th e world. However, it was funny teaching African literature because it was literature of the darks, dark from the heart, darkness that was so dark. Actually, it was the dark culture of the dark Africans. This student developed interest to pursue this unit taught by Achebe not because he thought it would affect his life positively but because it was talking about a dark culture of the dark people with a dark heart, and above all, taught by a dark man. Achebe was not amused. He notes that every society had its own culture. Therefore, trying to measure the level of advancement of one culture against that of another would be unfair. He also notes the bias in reporting. Early western researchers had prejudices against African culture. He notes, â€Å"Travelers with closed minds can tell us little except about themselves† (Achebe 5). He goes ahead to note that China had developments that would be considered in western standards as more advanced than as compared to those in some Euro pean nations. He notes, â€Å"The Great Wall of China is the only structure built by man that is visible from the moon. Indeed, travelers can be blind† (Achebe 6). Travelers who visited China were blind enough not to have seen this building but were keen though to have noticed the culture of the Chinese, which in the western scale of measurement was backward. Achebe feels that Africa, just like any other region in the world, Africa should be treated like any other western nation. This is because people in Africa are also cultured. He feels that this book is too racist and is misplaced in the current society. â€Å"I am talking about a story in which the very humanity of black people is called in question† (Achebe 8). This statement brings out his resentment not only to the content of this book, but also to the general western society. The United States of America is the only country in the world with representation of people from every corner of the world. It has peopl e from different regions, with different cultures that sharply contrast. In addition, the country has experienced the highest level of discrimination because of integration.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Achebe’s views on Racism specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More He blames Conrad and other racist authors for contaminating the minds of others with negative information about Africa. â€Å"But even those not blinkered, like Conrad with xenophobia†¦ Unfortunately, his heart of darkness plagues us still† (Achebe 9). He feels that there are those who would have different perceptions about Africa and its people if only they were given the opportunity to think independently. However, because others such as Conrad have already people negative perception about Africa and its populace, it becomes very difficult to change this. He observes that, â€Å"it was and is the dominant image of Africa in the Wes tern imagination and Conrad merely brought the peculiar gifts of his own mind to bear on it† (Achebe 11) Africa, just like Europe, America, Asia, or any other continent in the world, has people with a culture they value for reasons known best to them. Some of their culture, such as female circumcision, could be as retrogressive as human practiced in some parts of Europe and Asia. Furthermore, FGM could be likened to hosexuality, which is so rampant in many western countries today. Achebe wonders why Africans are perceived to be strange. This is a matter of concern to Achebe. Africans are not criticizing these unnatural acts practiced in the west. Achebe wonders why should they criticize African culture. In Africa, homosexuality is not allowed in many parts. However, Africans have not stood out to hate whites because of that. Africans tolerate this behavior because they understand that not all people are the same. It can be observed that Achebe is not against whites but he is a gainst racism practiced by some members of society in western world such as Conrad. He notes that skin culture should not be used to differentiate society because every person is equal and has a right to exercise his or her fundamental rights. Indeed, the US has incorporated laws that punish offenders s regards to racism. The First Amendment to the US constitution empowers all races. It gives people various fundamental rights and freedoms. For instance, each race has a right to participate in political processes. This means that any person can stand for any position as long as he or she qualifies. Furthermore, any individual in society has the right to vote for a preferred candidate.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Works Cited Achebe, Chinua. Things fall apart. New York: Heinemann, 1996. Print. Joseph. Heart of Darkness. New York: Forgotten Books, 2008. Print. This essay on Achebe’s views on Racism was written and submitted by user Giant Girl to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Anthropology report essays

Anthropology report essays Progress undermines African culture I read an article on how tourist and Christians are changing the African culture. According to Mr Opondo, tourism is effecting huge changes in the lives of people in the Kigezi highlands. He said, "The tourists who come to enjoy the mountains trigger change among the inhabitants, leading to assimilation of cultures and the diffusion of new lifestyles. The prevailing attitude of using Western culture as the mirror of what is good has modified cultural norms. They copy European accents, hairstyles and dress. The perception is that Western culture is superior and dominant." According to this article, the Africans are being exposed to new technologies and the Western culture, as never before by tourists and Christians who try to convert the Africans. Although this is not all bad, this may lead to the disruption of African culture. The traditional ways of African culture that were perceived to them as righteously superior are now being undermined by the new culture that the westerners are bringing into Africa. In Ethiopia, a farmer AHI knows was recently told by the church to get rid of his second wife, who was pregnant. Polygamy is well accepted in Africa, but Christians are enforcing their religion and culture to the lives of these peaceful Africans. This may well disrupt the harmony of African society and culture, and cause problems. This article is related to cultural anthropology because it relates on the culture of Africa, which is a main country that anthropologists emphasize on. It is related to anthropology because this article explains the process of the assimilation of culture of Africa. The process that Africa is going through because of the westerners. The article also states how polygamy is common tradition as it is also explained in chapter 9 marriage cultural anthropology book. This article is also correlated to many videos ...

Designer Research Project Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Designer Project - Research Paper Example His talent and professionalism enabled him to work for a variety of companies, like IBM and NeXT. While working as a consultant for these corporations, he was responsible for conceiving detailed communication systems. The systems varied from logos, building signage, packaging and a variety of other designs that are still used to date. Consequently, I think that is why I chose him for this project. His work on IBM and NeXT revolutionized the marketing strategies adopted by technological companies, and as a Computer Science major, I was drawn to his work. The growth of NeXT as a company and as a corporate identity, can be partially attributed to Paul’s work on the company’s logo and brochures. Paul’s work was not only visually stimulating, but evoked emotions of admiration. He adopted a problem-solving method to graphic design and in turn, it earned him devoted admirers on a global scale, even ten years after his death. His work was essential in swaying consumers to certain brands, because it was trusted by many consumers to communicate an essential truth via the brand’s visual cues. Indeed, he was skilled in brand identity. For Paul Rand, he was motivated by modest expectations and good ideas. He was on various occasions quoted saying that, in order to comprehend what a logo was capable and incapable of accomplishing, then a person’s designs would always need to achieve the simplicity that all people crave for. He emphasized that simplicity was not the aim of a project, but was a by-product of modest expectations and a good idea. In addition to his affinity for good ideas and modest expectations, presentation was key to him. He was adamant that for every design a designer is involved with, he should strive to tell a story that is unique and tailored in accordance with the wishes of the client. The quality of work produced for a client and the clarity with which it conveys the

Battle of Little Bighorn Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Battle of Little Bighorn - Essay Example oldiers lost during the battle to the Lakota Indians their defeat ironically was a win as it strengthened America’s nation building (Calloway, 2012). The changing images show who was either the victim or the victor of the â€Å"battle of the little bighorn† between the Lakota Indians and the American Soldiers at different times. Through the interpretations; the image, â€Å"Custer’s Last Stand† the Indians are depicted as victors, the image of â€Å"they died with their boots on† depicts the American Soldiers as the victims. On the other hand, in â€Å"little big man†, it can be interpreted that the victors are Clusters and the American soldiers; in the image â€Å"Lakotas Fighting Custer’s Command†, the Indians are the victors while in the image of â€Å"Custer’s Dead Cavalry† depicts how the American Soldiers were defeated (Calloway, 2012). The Americans and the Indians have portrayed the battle in different forms. The American images depict the Americans as the victors while the Lakota images depict the Indians as the Victors. The American images show General Cluster as the last man standing this is a clear indication that the Americans won the battle. However, the Lakota images depict the Indians as the victors, and they show many dead soldiers (Calloway,

What is a circular economy, what are some of the key principles, Essay

What is a circular economy, what are some of the key principles, concepts and building blocks and what system shifts might be needed to bring it about at scale - Essay Example This report deals with the analysis of a circular economy by considering the main principles and challenges associated with this kind of economy, by assessing the benefits and need of this kind of economy and by discussing how this economy has already been implemented by some nations cross the world. For this purpose, evidences are drawn for Jamaica and the Caribbean regions to understand the exact proposition and need of a circular economy. The report is suitably concluded by highlighting and summarizing the key findings and supporting the arguments as presented in favour of the need to shift from the traditional industrial economy framework to a circular industrial economy framework. The circular economy can perhaps be best explained by drawing a parallel of this economy with the traditional linear economy that is currently existent in the industrial domains. In the current economic system, the companies and industries tend to extract resources from the ecosystem at an accelerating pace and then use them into the manufacturing and production processes to make products that are usually disposed after some time of use (Lowitt, 2008). This approach seems to be efficient from the perspective of an organization or an individual. However, if observed from a global and holistic view, then this approach would seem to be highly unsustainable and hazardous for the future of the ecosystem and the planet (McDonough, Braungart and Clinton, 2013). Therefore in order to help the organizations, ecosystem and the industries to survive, an economic system should be developed that would operate within the natural and planetary boundaries. The concept of the circular economy is dev eloped on the basis of the idea of decoupling the prosperity and growth of the organizations and industries through the use of the ecosystem and natural resources with the concern

Juvenile Delinquency: Strain Theory

Juvenile Delinquency: Strain Theory A juvenile delinquent is a person who is typically under the age of 18 and commits an act that otherwise would have been charged as a crime if they were an adult. Depending on the type and severity of the offense committed, it is possible for persons under 18 to be charged and tried as adults (Wikipedia). Juvenile delinquency is a growing problem in the United States today. Many families are faced with high poverty rates and social problems due to the constraints of living in a low income community where deviance is the only process to achieve success. In order for children to succeed we must come to terms with this underlying issue and be able to solve this primary source. Using Robert Mertons Strain theory I will explain the high concentration of crime of juvenile delinquents in low income communities. Robert Merton a sociologist who coined strain theory believed that people were placed on established paths in order to be successful in society. Merton believed that social structure rather than culture was the main problem for juvenile delinquents association with crime. Using several adaptations of strain theory he clarifies his argument. Merton believed there were five adaptations in society that you could travel in order to be successful. The five adaptations were innovation, retreatism, ritualism, conformity, and rebellion. The three I will be explaining are innovation, conformity, and rebellion. Merton states, the social structure effectively limits the possibilities of individuals within these groups to achieve this goal through the use on institutionalized mean (Merton 159). If a juvenile delinquent from a low income community has no means of getting an education or bettering himself then he is going to adapt to the societal norms that are already in existence in his social e nvironment. For example, a juvenile delinquent grows up in the projects with low income housing, his mother is a single parent who works full time but can barely afford to put food on the table. In order for the juvenile delinquent to provide for himself he must find other means of income. His only means of income that he has been raised to know is selling drugs. The juvenile delinquents strain is that he only knows deviance and crime in order to prevail. Although the juvenile delinquent is breaking the normative methods of society he is still able to survive through one of the five adaptations which is innovation. Robert Mertons concept of innovation says people accept the cultural goals of a society but reject the conventional methods of attaining those goals (Merton 176). A prime example of an innovator would be a drug dealer. The drug dealer has fully accepted the cultural goals that he needs to complete in order to be successful. Instead of abiding by those cultural goals and following the process of achievement he uses deviance to stray away from the path of success. Same prophecy goes for the juvenile delinquent stated above he must conform to innovation in order to provide for himself and his family. The juvenile delinquent has accepted his social status and low income community but has decided instead of going to school and striving for a good education he would rather comply and sell drugs just like his peers he has looked up to his whole life. His social constraints dictate his decisions and therefore he is placed in confinement. The juvenile delinquents deviance is mainly caused by his living environment and community lifestyle. He has learned the way of crime and deviance through watching his elders and peers. The experiences that he has been a part of make him more prone to commit deviant acts. Merton states there are fewer legitimate opportunities to obtain wealth for the lower socioeconomic class (Merton 158). This means he believes that the only way that you can obtain wealth is that you must be born in the middle class or upper class of society. Merton also says its okay not to achieve but everyone should give an effort and try, but those who dont achieve still have some sort of value. The value he is trying to portray is the value you give of yourself. Even though you may struggle at first its the greatest accomplishment to never give up. The juvenile delinquent may never become wealthy or have the finer things in life but that doesnt mean he cannot make life enjoyable. If he applies himself with great values and strives to be the best he can overcome m any obstacles that may derail his path. In addition to Innovation another adaptation that is prevalent in strain theory is Conformity. Conformity is the accusation that most people comply with societys norms. People are taught at a young age the rules and punishment of society. When an individual conforms they not only lose their individualistic ideals, but they are allowing society to dictate their thoughts and emotions. When a juvenile delinquent is established to a social group, such as a street gang, they are no longer looked at as an outsider but rather embraced into likeness as an insider or brotherhood. Conformists are people who not only believe in the assumption of cultural achievements but also believe in the methods that allow them to reach them. The conforming processes are an easy route into societal norms and allow an individual to hide their true agenda of individualism. The last adaptation that comes into play is rebellion. Rebellion occurs when an individual rejects both culturally defined goals and means and substitutes new goals and means (citation). This means they no longer adhere to any of societal rules but create their own. A prime example would be a hip hop artist. A lot of times hip hop artists dont adhere to any of societys social norms but rather rebel and show the representation of the bad boy image. The juvenile delinquent listens to hip hop music which encourages him to party, sell drugs, and make money then more than likely he is going to want to follow that lifestyle. Music influences everything in terms of society, norms, and values. Without music how would becoming a deviant person be acceptable in our world today? Most hip hop artists live a deviant crime filled lifestyle everyday of their lives. Just like the delinquent selling drugs on the corner its the same self fulfillment they each get which make their rebellious nature. We all have rebellious tendencies its in our human nature. Being the good person all the time seems somewhat weak and stagnant. The juvenile delinquent feels he has to prove something to his peers but also his family. People in society always want to feel accepted no matter what social group they come to find. The rebellious adaptation is an important aspect of strain theory of social structure it completes the cycle of social structure. Merton was an established thinker and a great sociologist. His development of strain theory and the adaptations associated with it made him a well known person of his time. Merton coined this theory so that he could help future thinkers like us understand where his ideals and passion steamed from especially in crime and deviance. His strain theory led to other important theories such anomie and the self fulfilling prophecy. Crime and deviance especially in juvenile delinquents will always be prevalent in todays society. There will always be low income communities that breed out drug dealers for the streets. The persuasion of crime is a war that has affected many generations of juvenile delinquency. Juvenile delinquency is a privilege a young boy gets before he sees the real institutions of punishment for crimes. The only way some delinquents learn about punishment and the laws of society is by breaking them. Unfortunately breaking the law has serious consequences and can affect a del inquents future in society. Until we learn how to really create better opportunities for low income communities with juvenile delinquent issues our society will be a refuge for many more to come. This issue can only be solved by our government but they make too much money off delinquents why would they want to give up their cash cow. If the government paid more attention to neighborhoods and social structure of living we would not have to deal with criminals ruining our society. Our society must learn the problems so that juvenile delinquency retreats and our children grow up to be the face of a prosperous and protected America.

Essay on Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer’s Odyssey

Symbolism, Imagery and Diction in Homer’s Odyssey During the course of history, the world has seen many fine works of literature like Homer’s epic, Odyssey. This book is a standard against which to compare all literary novels. The symbolism permeates the pages drawing the reader into the intriguing plot that includes twists within the central theme. Also, the author intelligently uses imagery and diction painting dramatic images in the reader's mind - building upon major the themes. The book contains a captivating use of symbolism making the story more interesting and understandable. This magnetizes the reader into the book. "At the first show of dawn, great Alcinous left his couch, as did that ravager of cities, Odysseus, kinsman of Zeus." (Homer, 79) In this quote, Odysseus is referred to as the kinsman of Zeus who is the supreme god. Here, the word kinsman is used as a symbol to portray Odysseus's strength and bravery. He is so brawny that he has the honour of being called the kinsman of Zeus. Apart from Zeus, there are many other gods mentioned in the book. One can associate each god with some or the other symbol. Zeus announces, "It is Poseidon the world-girdler who is so headily bitter against him..."(6). This quote shows that Poseidon, the god of the sea and earthquakes, is referred to as the world-girdler, which literally means world shaker. Poseidon is given other aliases including earth-shaker, which suit him not only because of his position, but also because of his nature, which is very hot-tempered. The riveting plot includes deception and unexpected twists within the central theme thus adding interest. After the Trojan War, the veterans returned home to their own land to a hero's ... ...rils. (214) As seen by this quote, the words Homer uses, such as spurted, create vividly graphic images in the mind of the reader. The details of how Antinous is killed here help enhance this theme that is exhibited throughout the novel. As displayed above, there is a good use of symbolism in The Odyssey to add to the interest of the reader. Also there are unexpected twists and turns around the central theme to keep the reader in suspense. Finally, Homer ingeniously uses the words to create stunning pictures that help relate to the text, and disclose and heighten key themes depicted in the book. The Odyssey is clearly an exceptional piece of writing that will forever remain a classic. This epic is undoubtedly part of the elite group of books published over the course of time.