Thursday, July 19, 2007

America the Land of Opportunity

In class we briefly discussed immigrant equality in the US , and I would like to further share my opinion on the matter. The general good in man is limited to a return on the initial investment. Because of this dominating groups are not going to give up power at their own expense and for no gain. Thus when people make the argument that their race, ethnicity, gender, or religion deserves equal rights and treatment their appeals are falling on deaf ears. It is not that I don't believe in equality, but rather I don't think it can acquired by complaining as so often seen today. Instead as my man Axl Rose so eloquently put it "You can have the bright lights, but you won't get them for free," meaning you must pay for them, or take them. This idea long pre-dates "American social dominance" as groups with a strong desire for equality and power have toppled and created the greatest civilizations in the world shifting power and ideals. What I am not advocating is staging a rebellion against the white man, but what I am is take action instead of talking about it, it does work. After all America is the land of opportunity.

3 comments:

Sean McIntosh said...

I believe that a statement that refers to the ideas you are expressing is, "actions speak louder than words". Your idea raises the question, "Can anyone, from any background rise to high levels of sucess, regardless of class, ethnicity, or gender." Of course what is going to be our yardstick for success? We cannot use examples like Bill Gates to measure and on the flip side the standard cannot be too low. No matter how hard to were to work achieving a status like Gates is pretty impossible. Also, nowadays massive success can be achieving without ever going to college. Maybe that is a sign that in the US anyone can become successful.

Tai Edwards said...

Quinton, do you have an example from US history (our class or otherwise) where you see a demonstration of action working to promote equality?

quintonk said...

Dr. King is a classic example of taking action towards equality. He may not have achieved complete social equality, but he definitely made progress.