Art Can Be Dangerous

In an opinion piece published in the New York Times,  Salman Rushdie used the term “art can be dangerous” to describe the perils sometimes faced by artists. He described the imprisonment of Chinese artist Ai Weiwei as unjust, and a direct result of Ai’s criticisms of the Chinese government. The term “art is dangerous” describes the persecution that high-profile artists may face when they challenge the existing power structure. Famous artists, whether they be painters, musicians, or otherwise are high-profile individuals. Their opposition to the ruling class can inspire others. This can pose a serious threat. That is where their fame can no longer been seen as advantageous, but dangerous to their well-being.

There are other ways art can be dangerous. The fame, fortune, and prestige many artists obtain gives them access to things they may not have otherwise had. Sometimes, that can be a good thing. Sometimes, not so much. Drugs and alcohol are readily available, and money allows one to indulge in these vices. Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, and Jean-Michel Basquiat are just a few artists whose fame may have in fact been a hinderance in ridding them of vices which ultimately led to their respective deaths.

Manhood in Today’s Society

The true definition of manhood can mean different things to different people. However,there are several core aspects that define a “real man”, and those who consider themselves real men should possess these basic character traits. The first is responsibility to one’s family. Not every man has children, but if one does, children have to be considered the primary responsibility. It is often asserted that many young men, particularly African- American males suffer from a lack of positive male role models. It is not enough to merely pay court ordered child support. Children, both young men and young women need a stabilizing male influence. Having a responsible man regularly participating in the life of a young boy gives the child not only discipline, but an example of how men should conduct themselves in society. That same male can provide a young girl with the love and affection that all children need. She will later have an exceptable expectation level of how she should be treated when she is old enough for romantic relationships.Men must also understand that while opportunities for dating are plentiful, once you have committed yourself to a woman, whether through marriage or otherwise, it is important to honor that committment. Women deserve the peace of mind that being with a man, who is not interested in other women provides. In our society, images in music and film that portray men sexually objectifiying women can influence the behavior of young men. It is important for a man to realize that at the very least, women are their equal. They deserve to be treated accordingly. Additionally, popular thought in our society which belittles the importance of marriage is damaging. Again, not all marriages will work out, but marriage before children gives parents the best opportunity to successfully raise well adjusted children who are adequately provided for.

Degree, or not Degree?

As the cost of higher education continues to rise, the question of whether or not earning a college degree is worth the cost is frequently asked. Earning a degree has traditionally been seen as an advantage to anyone who will enter the workforce. However, as more and more Americans are graduating from college with large amounts of student loan debt, debt that will make day-to-day living more difficult, it is as fair a time as any to wonder if students would not be better off evaluating their decision to attend college, or at the very least, examine whether or not attending a more prestigious and expensive institution will give them an advantage.