Modern Thinking of Self Concept

Introduction It is not known exactly when man’s awareness of self developed. However, it is believed that the notion of self awareness has existed since the creation of man. Philosophers such as Renà © Descartes were among the first to define self concept.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Modern Thinking of Self Concept specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In the 20th century, the concept of the self took a new turn with the emergence of behaviorism and other schools of thought on self concept. Modern thinking of self concept is varied. Humanistic psychology, spiritual concept of self and other theories constitutes modern thinking on self concept. The History of Self Concept The concept of self possibly dates as far back as the beginning of man. This is because there is no sufficient evidence on when man became aware of such intangible personal attributes self-esteem. However, studies in the development of sel f concept got a boost from the works of Rene Descartes in the 17th century. Descartes suggested the existence of the ego (non-physical being). The concept of the ego remained anonymous throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. It is only during the early 20th century that the concept of the non physical started gaining prominence (Rachlin, 1991: Plotnik, 2005). Some of the early philosophies explaining self concept include behaviorism. Behaviorism is a school of thought suggested by such renowned psychologists as B.F. Skinner and J.B. Watson. Behaviorists concede that self concept can only be understood by carefully interpreting human behavior (Baum, 2005). Within the same period, Sigmund Freud developed psychoanalysis, the psychology of the study of the mind, which deviated slightly from behaviorism (Elliott, 2002). Humanistic psychology developed later in the mid 20th century with concepts such as self actualization gaining prominence. Famous humanist psychologists such as Car l Rogers proposed the idea of unconditional recognition, a concept in which the perception of oneself is motivated by unconditional self acceptance. Furthermore, Robert Burns suggested that self concept is a composition of personal attitudes and beliefs. The concept of self has developed further with varied opinions constituting modern thinking. These include the spiritual based concept of self, whereby each of the major religions such Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam, suggest unique philosophies on self concept (Greenberg, 2008).Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The modern thinking on the self Grego (2007) argues that most of the modern theories on self concept borrow heavily from the works of Rene Descartes. Descartes’ works focus on dualism; the idea that human beings are dual in nature. Most of the modern self concept theorists build their philosophy on self concept around Descartes’ initial idea on the ego. The modern thinking suggests that human beings have an inherent need for motivation. This implies that self concept is largely determined by motivation. There are various factors that determine motivation. Abraham Maslow proposes that an individual concept of self progresses in stages. These stages are equated to progressive levels of human needs. The satisfaction of each level of needs motivates a person to acquire an improved concept about the self. As such a person’s self concept develops in stages. Other modern theories on the self concept include Sociometer and the terror management theories (Kernis, 1997). While Sociometer theorists suggest that the development of self concept is motivated by one’s social needs and the ability to fit into social groups, terror management theorists propose that security issues (and more so those related to life and death matters), determines the development of a person’s self conc ept (Solomon and McGregor, 1997). Moreover, humanistic psychology, which suggests that unconditional acceptance motivates self concept, also constitutes modern thinking. Modern thinking suggests two types of self concepts: high and low self esteem. People with high self esteem characteristically love themselves unconditionally. They also recognize themselves and live comfortably, without letting the flaws affect them negatively (Baumeister, Campbell, Krueger and Vohs, 2003). On other hand, people with low self esteem fail to recognize and accept themselves. They perceive themselves negatively and desire to change certain attributes about themselves.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Modern Thinking of Self Concept specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The Spiritual concept of self The spiritual aspects of the self concept are founded on James Hillman’s definition that psychology studies the human soul (Klemp, 20 09). Based on Hillman’s psychology, the concept of the self show a relationship with a higher being, most commonly referred to as the creator of the universe. Modern theosophists such as Helena Blavatsky suggest that the spirit, other than being incorruptible, is above the human soul. The human spirit deals with the non physical aspects of life such as virtues and vices. The spirit, thus, constitutes the self. The human soul can be attracted to the human spirit. If this happens, a person becomes overtly spiritual. The connection between the soul and the spirit forms a person‘s self concept (Creeger, 1994). Theosophists separate the soul and the spirit and argue that the human spirits transcends mortality. Thus, people who are deeply spiritual perceive themselves as immortal; they will live beyond death. Such people live in permanent freedom. People who are overly spiritual characteristically detach themselves from physical cravings, since they consider such to be a hind rance to their self actualization. As such, they concentrate in the spiritual aspects of life such as meditation, prayer and worship, and other aspects that guarantee joy and happiness. Due to their spiritual nature such people perceive themselves as closer to their supreme creator. Major world religions have specific philosophies that explain the concept of the self. The Hindu concept of self is founded on the caste system. Hindus believe that a person’s progressively move towards self actualization, by meeting spiritual needs. The progress through the caste system signifies a person spiritual growth. Similarly, Christianity proposes its own philosophy on the self concept that â€Å"man is created in Gods own image† (Hensley, n.d). In this regard, the Christian concept of self is based on positive self regard. Conclusion The development of self concept can be attributed to the works of Renà © Descartes. However, behavior psychologists made significant contribution to the development of self concept. Behaviorists suggested that a person self concept is derived from studying personal behavior. It is imperative to state that behavior psychologist ignored spiritual aspect of the self.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Unlike behaviorists, theosophists focus on the spiritual aspects. They propose that the human being is made up of two distinct parts; the soul and the spirit. The soul is the physical, while the spirit is the powerful of the two and connects one to a higher power. The spirit, which constitutes the self, leads one to self actualization. As such, the self endures beyond death. Similarly humanist psychologists suggest that the concept of self improves with the satisfaction of progressive human needs. Self actualization is the highest level of growth one can achieve. While theosophist suggests that self actualization is only attained through the satisfaction of spiritual needs, humanists propose self actualization is met through satisfaction of human needs. Both theosophical and humanistic approaches are unified by life after death. Reference List Baum, W. (2005). Understanding Behaviorism: Behavior, Culture and Evolution. New Jersey: Blackwell Publishing. Baumeister, R., Campbell, J., Krueger, J. and Vohs, K. (2003). Does High Self-Esteem Cause Better Performance, Interpersonal Success, Happiness, or Healthier Lifestyles?. Psychological Science in the Public Interest 4 (1): 1–44. Creeger, R. (1994). Theosophy: An Introduction to the Spiritual Processes in Human  Life and in the Cosmos. Hudson, NY: Anthroposophic Press. Elliott, A. (2002). Psychoanalytic Theory: An Introduction. Durham, NC: Duke University Press. Grego, R. (2007). Dualism, Consciousness and Self-Identity in Descartes and Sartre. Web. Greenberg, J. (2008). Understanding the Vital Human Quest for Self-Esteem.  Perspectives on Psychological Science. 3(48). Hensley, M. (n.d.). Self Concept and Spiritual Maturity. Web. Kernis, M. (1997). Efficacy, Agency, and Self-Esteem. New York: Plenum Press. Klemp, H. (2009). The Call of Soul. Minneapolis, MN: Eckankar. Plotnik, R. (2005). Introduction to Psychology. Ontario: Thomson-Wadsworth. Rachlin, H. (1991) Introduction to Modern Behaviorism. New Y ork: Freeman. Solomon, S. and McGregor, H. (1997). Terror Management Theory And Self-Esteem: Evidence That Increased Self-Esteem Reduces Mortality Salience Effects.  Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 72 (24). This essay on Modern Thinking of Self Concept was written and submitted by user Anya Kirby 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.

The Greek Hero vs The AngloSaxon Hero Essay Example

The Greek Hero vs The AngloSaxon Hero Essay Example The Greek Hero vs The AngloSaxon Hero Essay The Greek Hero vs The AngloSaxon Hero Essay The Greek Hero vs.The Anglo-Saxon Hero The hero stands as an archetype of who we should be and who we wish to be. However, the hero has inherent flaws which we do not wish to strive towards.In literature, these flaws are not used as examples of what we should be but rather as examples of what not to be.This is especially dominant in the Greek hero. While the Greek hero follows his fate, making serious mistakes and having a fairly simple life, the Anglo-Saxon super hero tries, and may succeed, to change his fate, while dealing with a fairly complex life. The Greek hero is strong and mighty while his wit and intelligence are highly valued.In the Greek tragedy, the hero struggles to avoid many flaws.Among these flaws are ambition, foolishness, stubbornness, and hubris-the excessive component of pride.He must overcome his predestined fate-a task which is impossible.From the beginning of the tale, it is already clear that the hero will ultimately failwith the only way out being death.In Oedipus, the hero is already confronted with a load of information about his family and gouges his eyes out.At this point, when he tries to outwit his fate he has already lost The Anglo-Saxon hero must also deal with his fate but tries, and usually succeeds, to change it.While the Greek hero battles his fate with his excessive pride and intelligence, the Anglo-Saxon hero tries to eliminate his doom by force.The Anglo-Saxon hero is considered a barbarian of sorts due to his sometimes unethical and immoral views and courses of action.At the end, the Anglo-Saxon succeeds in altering his fate though. The Greek hero is so normal, that the reader can relate to him.He is usually a common human being with no extraordinary life. His story seems believable, even possible.

Contribute to the complex nursing of clients Case Study

Contribute to the complex nursing of clients - Case Study Example She was admitted into the ward by wheel chair for investigation of increased abdominal girth and jaundice. She has been taking corticosteroids for her asthma for 6 months and has been receiving insulin SC, BD which her husband has been administering at home. This paper shall discuss the clinical manifestations of Mrs. Carr’s diagnosis. It shall outline the appropriate nursing interventions for Mrs. Carr, taking into consideration her physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs. A rationale for these interventions shall also be discussed. Mrs. Carr’s medical management shall also be discussed along with an outline of their mode of action and what reactions may be observed from these medications. This paper shall also discuss the observations I would perform on Mrs. Carr, and the rationale for such observations. Finally, this paper shall discuss how I, as an enrolled nurse, can maintain the client’s dignity and rights within legal and ethical guidelines. There are numerous manifestations of Mrs. Carr’s disease. Since, she has multiple diseases, various signs and symptoms will be seen. Mrs. Carr’s Alzheimer’s disease manifests with her loss of memory, disorientation, mood changes, and difficulties in performing her activities of daily living. These symptoms are consistent with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s as enumerated by Vishnu (â€Å"Conditions and Diseases†). Mrs. Carr’s osteoarthritis manifests with symptoms which include pain and stiffness in her joints, loss of flexibility in her joints, and very often swelling and tenderness in the vicinity of her joints. These symptoms are consistent with the symptoms of the disease as enumerated by the Mayo Clinic (â€Å"Disease and Conditions†). Her Type I diabetes manifests with excessive thirst and fatigue, weight loss, blurred vision, and frequent urination. Such symptoms, according to

Fighting Cyber-Crime Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Fighting Cyber-Crime - Term Paper Example This is because: 1. Every country has their own and separate legal, technical and organizational issues. 2. All information is stored in free-text format. 3. Information keeps changing dynamically. Thus, it has become a biggest international challenge. So how are they fighting against cybercrime? This is the topic of discussion in this task. What is Cybercrime? Cybercrime is any illegal activity that is conducted through the use of computers, the internet and computer network. There are many kinds of cybercrimes that exist: internet fraud, computer hacking, spreading of malicious code or viruses, cyber piracy and many more. And new types of cybercrime keep on being introduced. (Yang, 2008, p. 32). There are many reasons why people commit cybercrime; some of which are as follows: 1. Intellectual: when hackers gain illegal access to information on a secured website or crack passwords. 2. Emotional: when hackers take revenge from any employee of a company by giving threats through the u se of emails. 3. Financial: when hackers gain money through internet fraud. 4. Accessibility: when people download pirated software from the internet. Hence, cybercrime is not an accidental approach; it is an intentional act to gain some or the other kind of benefit on the part of the person committing it. (Cross and Shinder, 2008, p. 29). Some Examples of Cybercrimes Bob Smith who was a residence of Oklahoma, observed that his credit card had been used by some criminal who did fraudulent purchases. Two accounts had been opened with his information in two different banks. The criminal further applied for a loan in Dallas to buy a car and he changed the address of Bob to some address in Dallas which was a fake address. This was an example of use of internet fraud which is a cybercrime. (Cross and Shinder, 2008, p. 4). On 8 March, 2008, some data thieves broke into computers of chain of supermarkets Sweetbay and Hannaford Brothers, and stole around 4.2 billion credit card and debit ca rd numbers. A person’s email account password was hacked and his account was misused for sending malicious code to the contacts in the person’s address book. As the people receiving the malicious code think that it is coming from their friend, they open it and execute the attachments which infect their computer with the malicious code. (Nagpal, 2008, p. 133). Fighting Against Cybercrime The police should not be the only one involved in fighting against cybercrime. Legislators should also perform their part by making appropriate laws. Furthermore, the IT community and the society themselves should report the incidents of cybercrimes to the higher authorities as well as they should take measures to prevent themselves from becoming victim to these crimes. To fight against cybercrime, the following steps are being taken: 1. Educating the IT Professionals: As they already understand computer security, IT professionals are further made aware of computer crimes in which they are educated about the law which states what things come under computer crime and what things do not. The IT professionals are also being included in the law making in which they share their expertise. Furthermore, they are being involved with the police in the investigation of any computer crime scene so that they can give technical help and advice through their expertise.

The Ipswich Womens Centre Against Domestic Violence Social Work Essay

The Ipswich Womens Centre Against Domestic Violence Social Work Essay The Ipswich Womens Centre Against Domestic Violence (IWCADV) is a feminist community based organisation committed to working towards the elimination of domestic and family violence throughout the community. The primary focus of IWCADV is to provide support to women and children survivors of domestic and family violence. This includes telephone information, referral and support services, court support for women, counselling services, group work and childrens work. During my placement experience as a womens counsellor at IWCADV I first spent a few weeks developing my understanding of the issues involved in domestic violence and the systems that are in place to support women and children who are survivors of domestic and family violence. My knowledge of the issues affecting women and children experiencing domestic and family violence includes an understanding of the emotional impacts of abuse (such as feelings of grief and loss, anger, guilt, depression, trauma), the loss of personal and physical security, safety concerns, the financial costs, family law and other legal issues, and power and control imbalances in relationships. I have developed my knowledge of the issues affecting women and children experiencing domestic and family violence in my university studies and my work experience. The understanding that I gained from my University studies was enhanced during my student placement at the Ipswich Womens Centre Against Domestic Violence. It was here that I developed my understanding of feminist perspectives on domestic and family violence, including the individual, familial, legal and social issues. In this role I was able to develop my understanding of feminist informed practises and techniques. I support this framework for practice as it can empower women and help them find their voice, encouraging women who have experienced the loss of control to make choices about their own life and to take responsibility for their life choices and to take back control. I worked from within a feminist framework to empower the client to find her voice and to discover her worth and make her own choices. In my role as a student counsellor at IWCADV I provided crisis support and advocacy work to women who have experienced domestic and family violence. During the beginning counselling sessions, I found it was quite difficult to always follow the story and set direction for the counselling. I took a strengths based narrative approach and usually after 2 -3 sessions a clearer picture had developed of the clients experience with domestic violence, and this continued to unfold throughout the counselling sessions. One of the most personally rewarding aspects of my counselling experience was the opportunity to explore and experience symbol and sand tray therapy. I spent some time reading Sandplay and Symbol Work Emotional healing and personal development with children, adolescents and adults by Mark Pearson and Helen Wilson to prepare for my personal experience with symbols and sand tray therapy during my professional supervision sessions. I then had the opportunity to introduce one of my counselling clients to the sand tray. Whilst I did have feelings of uncertainty about my ability to facilitate the process, I did feel comfortable enough with the setting and with my client to create a safe place for self-discovery and self-awareness. She was very open to the process and we both found this to be an enjoyable and meaningful experience. My client reported that this was a very positive experience for her and allowed her to process some of her experiences with domestic violence and that it was a breakthrough for her in terms of learning to accept and value herself. I felt that it was an honour to share this part of my clients journey. With another client who was directed by the Department of Child Safety to attend counselling, setting the direction for each session was more difficult. I did not believe that this woman was ready to explore some of the emotional issues related to the trauma that she had experienced as a result of long term domestic violence. I was encouraged by her regular attendance and I believe that this was a result of my increasing ability to develop rapport. I was able to develop good rapport with my clients by being non-judgemental, using open ended questions and appropriate body language. I believe that my skill in developing rapport is reflected by the feedback and regular attendance to counselling sessions by my clients. I did struggle with ending the sessions on time and frequently found that sessions with some clients were running over 1.5 hours long. I spoke with some of the other workers at the service about this and they agreed that it could be difficult especially when women are exploring very painful issues and that it was important to be sensitive but direct when closing a counselling session. The group supervision times that I was included in at IWCADV were also very rewarding and inspiring times for me. The other workers at the service were all very passionate women with a strong commitment to empowering women and changing community attitudes about violence towards women. During group supervision there was opportunity and support for workers to reflect on their own feelings of despair and helplessness, and there was encouragement to extend and share your knowledge and understanding of the issues relating to domestic and family violence. The group times were also very rewarding team building occasions and there is a strong commitment at the service to supporting one another. For example, I found that after long phone calls or after a counselling session, another worker would check-in with me to provide any support and to answer any questions that I had.

Culture Change in Korean Women Essay

Sweeping cultural change rarely comes rapidly. Even in places where the constitution of the nation would guarantee equality of citizens, achieving true equality can be an agonizingly slow process. In the United States, for example, a fledgling women’s suffrage movement was present as early as the middle 1700s. The right to vote, however, would not be realized until 1920, over a hundred and fifty years later. Korea is a divided nation even more steeped in cultural tradition. Although there are some subtle differences, depending on region and class, Koreans still live in a regimented, patriarchal society. Globalization can result in a more equal society. The world is more economically interrelated than ever. The power of tradition is strong, however. Economic change has moved much more rapidly than social change within Korea. Generally speaking, cultural change within large, modern cities is occurring at a modest pace. In most rural areas, there has been little, if any, change in recent centuries. Surprisingly, emigration to the United States has not rapidly increased social change among the Korean community, evidencing the strength of cultural ties. Social change in Korea will continue to make uneven progress in the future because access to education varies widely among regions and classes. In the late 20th century there has been a dramatic shift in the center of women’s rights activity. Areas of the country that have greater interrelation have made greater strides toward the full liberation of women. Early in the 20th century, northern Korean cities saw the first cautious steps toward the empowerment of women. The communist regime has stalled cultural progress, not only for women but for everyone. Today, the center of cultural change is located in the South. Regardless of the location, the nature of the Korean character indicates that cultural change, especially for women, will always move slower than economic change. The Patriarchal Society The centuries –old influence of Confucianism in Korea has resulted in a class-conscious, patriarchal society. The influence of Japanese invaders in the mid-20th century only served to reinforce that reality. The Confucianism practiced in Korea mandated strict roles for men and women. Women were relegated to house work and discouraged from seeking any marketable education. Besides the influence of tradition, critics of increased liberty and opportunity have used a similar tactic to those who resisted this process in other countries. They claim that liberation from traditional roles for women will destroy the family structure. Similar arguments were made in relation to women’s suffrage in the United States. It is an argument that carries weight, particularly in a nation with such a deep paternalistic. background as Korea. Even in modern South Korea, the influence is still apparent. † Women still believe that they should be good housewives and mothers. There is some change but it is very, very slow† (Palley, 1990). Geographical and Class Differences The most obvious regional differences in culture come between the economically advanced state of South Korea and the economically stagnant, communist North Korea. The advanced industrial cities in the south, such as Seoul, have seen a liberalization of society, even if it lags behind the pace of economic change. The industrialization and modernization of South Korea has also resulted in the rise of a women’s movement, particularly in the larger cities. Early in the 20th century, the education of women was much more prevalent in the northern area of Korea, particularly Pyongyang. There were two factors present there which correlated closely with the education of women. The elite classes were concentrated in northern areas at that time, and; there was also a strong presence of western missionaries there. Education for women was typically restricted to the upper classes. Consequently, professions in which women could participate were severely limited. In the 1930s, only three out of 100,000 college-age Korean women took part in higher education Being born into a higher class, however, did not necessarily increase freedom. While women from the elite class have always been more likely to receive education, that education did not necessarily flow into a career. In fact, as Jihang Park reports, â€Å"†¦the higher the woman’s status, the more severe her seclusion† (1990). Jihang Park writes that, â€Å"In Korea, education was the primary focus of the women’s movement and remained so until 1945 (1990). A college for women has been in operation since the early 20th century, but the subjects available for study were limited in the early decades to preparing women for homemaking. The first generation of college educated women in Korea were not effective advocates for increased cultural change. Because they were primarily from the elite classes, they were not especially career-driven. For many, education was mainly a means for attracting a better husband. Even where some progress toward equality is being made, the process is slow and incomplete. â€Å"Opportunities for professional mobility are very limited, and on average in 1988 women earned approximately 45% that of men† (Palley, 1990). A number of women’s rights organizations have emerged in the south, but their effect on issues such as these have been minimal. Korean Immigrants A superficial cultural analysis of United States immigrants might conclude that exposure to economic and social liberty would substantially change the culture of immigrants and their descendants. Korean immigrants are somewhat unique, however, Whereas other immigrant groups are highly diverse in language and cultural practices, Korean immigrants tend to form a more homogenous group. Within that group, exposure to the outside culture remains somewhat limited and the cultural traditions brought from Korea remain strong. Many Koreans work in businesses tailored mainly to serve their own community. Many Korean immigrants, male and female, â€Å"have little opportunity to learn American customs, including a more egalitarian gender role orientation† (Pyong Gap Min, 2001). Economic realities have dictated some changes. An increasing number of Korean women are finding it necessary to work outside the home. Many wives work along side their husbands. The participation of married Korean women in the American labor force has increased from about 17% in 1980 to 25% in 1990 (Min, 2001). As it did with American women in the mid 20th century, working outside the home is empowering women to take a more active role in determining their own lives. Korean men grudgingly accept that women are entering the workforce, but still feel driven to maintain traditions at home. The result is a many marriages of Korean-Americans are experiencing strain. At the same time, cultural tradition stresses the importance of marriage. During the first half of the 20th century, more than 99% of Korean women were married by the age of forty-five (Jihang Park, 1990). Analysis and Conclusion There are some forces within Korea which are advocating social changes on behalf of women. Eventually, a more equal Korea will emerge. The question is whether it will take tens of years or hundreds of years. Those forces within Korea must battle against hundreds of years of deeply ingrained cultural tradition. Societal change at a significant level is often initiated by the middle class. The gradually growing workforce of Korean women will need to develop effective leaders in future years to move the process toward equality forward (Palley, 1990). In the past, the most influential forces for women’s rights have been external. Missionaries, in particular have been relatively effective in advocating education and basic human rights for women. It will take a larger force, though, to foster fundamental and lasting change for the lives of women in Korea. Fundamental social change is often economically-driven. Globalization is a seemingly irresistible economic force in the 21st century. Its focus on technology, education and interrelation with the world will force countries to either recognize the economic potential of women or risk being left behind. The pace of cultural change varies, and will continue to vary, depending on a number of factors. Some types of change are more easily accepted than others. For example, Korean-American men have accepted the necessity of their wives working but many do not accept that this can mean an alteration of marriage roles. Korean women in North Korea, South Korea and America are working in greater numbers than ever before. In a few cases, this has given them greater access to education and the political system. In most cases, however, it has not. Sources Min, Pyong Gap. (2001). â€Å"Changes in Korean Immigrants’ Gender Role and Social Status, and Their Marital Conflicts. † Sociological Forum. Vol. 16, No. 2 (Jun. ), pp. 301-320. Min, Pyong Gap. (2003). â€Å"Korean â€Å"Comfort Women†: The Intersection of Colonial Power, Gender and Class. † Gender and Society. Vol. 17, No. 6 (Dec. ), pp. 938-957. Palley, Marian Lief. (1990). â€Å"Women’s Status in South Korea: Tradition and Change. † Asian Survey. Vol. 30, No. 12 (Dec. ), pp. 1136-1153. Park, Jihang. (1990). â€Å"Trailblazers in a Traditional World: Korea’s First Women College Graduates, 1910-45. † Social Science History. Vol. 14, No. 4 (Winter), pp. 533-558.

American Perception V.S Kite Runner Perception

Perreault 1 Emerald Perreault Mrs. Wagner English IIII 20, December, 2011 American Perception V. S Kite Runner Perception of Afghanistan The U. S went thru the most tragic, life changing, mind conflicting event of all time. On September, 11, 2001 terrorist flew two plans into the Twin Towers in New York City. The terrorist attack on 9/11 devastated and ruined an enormous amount of American lives. Weather an American lost a friend, loved one, or relative, every American lost something valuable that day. Americans lost their right to feel safe: at work, at home, or at popular locations.The last time American safety was threatened was during World War II. U. S citizens are not use to war or violence happening in their country, unlike the Middle East. Americans do not reacted positively, when tragic situation happen. Their reaction to 9/11 changed the American perception of Afghanistan and Muslim culture. Americans lost all their trust for Muslims. That lack of trust between them created a whole new stereotype. Stereotype: A general statement or word, fit to describe a specific group of people.The American stereotype created to describe Muslims is anyone who is Muslim or from the Middle East was sent to America, to destroy their wealthy non dictated, country. National Geographic Channel says,† Afghans who fled their homeland for a new life in the United States are troubled to find themselves subject to suspicion and mistrust on the basis of their nationality and religion. † Based off of this information, Muslims are all being put into one pile, stereotypically. Afghanistan man who goes by the name of Fouzia Afshari says,† We are good people, we are civilized† who volunteers at Mustafa Center, an AfghanPerreault 2 Culture Academy near Washington D. C â€Å"We are not that type of Afghan people are thinking about right now. † Fouzia Afshari is a Muslim, obviously he is not a terrorist or out to get America, the controversy is the attack ers were not American. By not being American, the terrorists allowed Americans to lose trust in a whole country of people. Muslim people will have to deal with the uncertainty of ever gaining American trust back or the American perception of Afghanistan should not be based off of what a handle full of Muslims did,but based on actual facts.Khaled Hosseini book The Kite Runner portrays Afghanistan realistically V. S the American Perception. (National Geographic news website) Clearly, the American Perception of Afghanistan is a little farfetched. The perception is not based on Afghanistan or Muslim culture, but based on what a hand full of Muslims did (AKA 9/11). The terrorist attack traumatized Americans, giving them a stereotypical perception. Typically, when a person thinks of war, immediately people think of other people being shot left and right, bombs exploding everywhere.Americans think that the terrorist attack was the Middle East declaring war on them. From that point on, Amer icans believed that the Afghans that were not fighting U. S troops off, were all sitting at a table brainstorming how their going to attack America next. Some Americans were so devastated that they will not go anywhere near Muslims or anyone from the Middle East because of their stereotypical perception. Muslims own about 75% of the gas station and covenant stores in the United States. Americans that will not associate with Muslims will go farther out of their way for gas.Americans think that Muslims do not like Americans because of the U. S troops in the Middle East and when an American goes to a Muslim gas station, their receiving less gas. Even in an unstable economy Americans still go out Perreault 3 of there way for gas, allowing Muslims to see that Americans truly view them all as terrorist. For Afghans and Muslims it is confusing for them to understand why the America perception is so ridiculous. The perception is not only based on 9/11, it is also has to do with Americans no t being given the full picture of the war in Afghanistan.The media diffidently confuses Americans. Josh Meyer stated in his article Gap between the U. S perception and reality in Iraq, Afghanistan, author posits † While Americans are given one media report after another about how Afghanistan is filled with exploding bombs, attacking hordes of the Taliban and a lawlessness that pervades every corner of the war torn nation, the real story is a more nuanced one. † Americans are given exaggerated reports on what’s happening in Afghanistan. The media is 100% to blame for the skewed version of the Afghanistan war Americans have.Based on that version of the war Americans make false actuation, which hurts the Afghanistan and Muslim population. (Josh Meyer) The American perception of Afghanistan upsets Muslims and makes it harder for their people to come to America. Muslims who are leaving Afghanistan are on America’s side. They are fleeing their own homeland and co ming to start new in America because they do not agree with how their country is being ruined. Afghans come to America for the freedom that is taken from them in Afghanistan. Naweed an Afghan woman tells National Geographic channel â€Å"No art, no radio, no television, painting, drawing-nothing is allowed.Education for women is not allowed. Music is not allowed, they call it satanic. That’s why we are strongly working to keep our culture alive here in America. † Naweed is one of many who wants to feel at home. For Muslims America is their new homeland, but because of the American perception the majority of Perreault 4 afghans feel out of place. â€Å" I’m raising my kids here and I don’t want to feel like I don’t belong here. But, that’s what I feel here as an Afghan and a Muslim. † said Alina to the National Geographic Channel, adding: â€Å" I don’t want to lose another home. Afghans don’t want to come to America the y rather live in their own country where feel at home, but they have no choice. Yet hope remains that Afghanistan will one day be in the hands of peace-loving Afghans and everyone will see the truth. (National Geographic Channel) Afghanistan was once a country where Afghans could be successful and wealthy. Then the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan and the Taliban was created, but took a turn for the worst and the U. S army went to help the people in Afghanistan. When the Soviet Union was defeated the Civil War still continued.The Taliban was created to go in and unify the country. The Taliban comes form the word student- that’s what it means. The Taliban is made up of students that went to religious schools in Pakistan and former fighters, who use to fight in the war against the Soviet Union. The Taliban is what made Afghanistan a terraces place to live. After the Taliban brought peace to 80% of the country, they became power hunger and started to take away Afghanistanâ€℠¢s freedom. Even with the Taliban dictating Afghanistan, Josh Meyer, author of Gap between the U.S perception and reality in Iraq, Afghanistan, author posits says, â€Å" Anyone in this room could go to Kabul now and have a fairly good time. There are restaurants and there are bars,† and the streets are not a shooting gallery with various factions trying to kill each other, while armed insurgents are also trying to U. S and coalition forces. â€Å" The Taliban Is not a very large insurgent group. † Josh Meyer is trying to inform Americans that Afghanistan is not Iraq, but it is still not a place where all Afghans can make a living. (Josh Meyer) Perreault 5The Kite runner is the perfect example of how Afghanistan is not Iraq, but not a place where all afghans can make a living. Author Khaled Hosseini tells a story about Amir and Hassan these two Afghan boys who grew up together, but where separated by Amirs will to make his farther proud and the Soviet Union invading. A mir betrayed Hassan by watching him being raped by Asseft because Hassan was a Haraza. Guilt ate at Amir until he framed Hassan for steeling and Hassan and his father left in embarrassment. Shortly after Amir and BaBa ( Amirs farther) took a journey to America.Where Baba had to run a gas satiation and sell items he bought at a yard sale at the local flee market. Before Baba and Amir came to America they were wealthy. So wealthy that Hassan and his father were Baba servants. Afghanistan is not as poverty strict end as Americans thought it was. Amir and Baba did not come to America to destroy it, he came to America because Kabul was not safe and he hoped Amir could receives the best possible education in America. Baba and Amir were in America for two years. For those two years Baba would by a jar of fruit form the same people everyday with cash.One day Baba had no money, he wrote a check out instead. When the man asked for Id Baba exploded, â€Å"He wants to see my license? Almost tw o years we’ve bought his dam fruits and put money in his pocket and son of a dog wants to see my license. † Amir says, â€Å" They’re suppose to ask for Id† Baba says,† Dose he think I’m a thief? What kind of a country is this? No one trusts anybody. † Baba thought that the man working thought he was steeling when the man asked Baba for Id. Baba was offended. Years down the road Amir is told that Hassan died in Kabul.Hassan was shot in the back of the head because a Talian member thought him and his family where living in Amirs old house instead of in the hut outside made specifically for servants. Amir felt responsible because if he Perreault 6 and Baba would of stayed Hassan may still be alive. For Hassan he is an Afghan who should fled from Afghanistan. Amir and Baba could of stayed in Afghanistan. Khaled Hosseini book portrayed Afghanistan well and realistically. (Khaled Hosseini) The American Perception of Afghanistan is not realist ic or based on actual facts.The Kite Runner diffidently grasps and gives a better understanding of Afghanistan. Unfortunely, Afghans who come to America will have to deal with the mistrust Americans have towards them like Baba. The American Perception is not do to Americans not educating themselves. It is because of terrible media reports. Bergen the author of The Longest War: Enduring Conflict between America and Al-Qaeda says, â€Å" It is not being well communicated to the American public that the afghan war is nothing like the Iraq war, the media has to take responsibility for that.The differences between Afghanistan and Iraq couldn’t be more stark. † Bergen wants people to know that the media is portraying Afghanistan as a war torn place like Iraq, when they are both completely different. Afghanistan is not in as big of an up roar as the media made it. Instead of relying on the media to prove Americans with the proper information, Americans should educate themselv es, stop listening to everything they hear. Also Americans should not rely on electronics and once in a while pick up a book or ask someone who is Muslim to explain what’s going on. (Bergen)