It's sad to say that people will do things like that to bring you down. The people who posted the photographs of krystal wanted society to see her as a whore merely because she is a woman. Unfortunately, the double standard has always been there, in and out of the workplace. There are all these different men who get caught having affairs and they are still viewed in the public's eye as accomplished men. But, when a women is seen in any sexual manner she is viewed as a whore who has no sense and can't be good at the job that she does.
People who hold high positions, women especially, have to expect things from their past to come up. Its a cruel world and people often expect women to be hit with embarassing things such as this and just tuck their tail in. However, I agree with krystal, all you can do is stay strong and confront it. Everyone has a past and a private life. Even though with today's age it may not be that private; we are all human. It's just like seeing your teacher out having a drink. Seeing somebody you look up to, engaging in their home life, isn't somethink people are used to but its something people should take into consideration.
Voters and everyone else should also take into consideration the people that posted these photographs and how cruel and deceiving they can be as well. Nobody is perfect.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Post # 6
Its really hard to believe that political canidates would scoop down this low just to win a campain. We have all done crazy and embrassing stuff in the past that we might regret today but it should'nt have any effect on the future.
That picture was take when Krystal Ball was twenty years old, she was young and living life. It doesnt make her less of a professional because a silly picture was posted. She is still a smart and dedicated young women that wants to represent her state.
The private life of others is no ones business but theirs, I personally would not like to see, hear, or read anything about a person against their will. We need to respect eachother and eachothers privacy.
That picture was take when Krystal Ball was twenty years old, she was young and living life. It doesnt make her less of a professional because a silly picture was posted. She is still a smart and dedicated young women that wants to represent her state.
The private life of others is no ones business but theirs, I personally would not like to see, hear, or read anything about a person against their will. We need to respect eachother and eachothers privacy.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Blog 6
I agree with her that women have always been viewed different than man in the work place, society, and polities. It is something that is slowly getting better as time change.I disagree on her comparing herself to Hillary Clinton. What happened to Hillary was not by choice, she did not choose to have her husband cheat and for it to go public. Where as Krystal Ball chose to go to that college party or post college party. She chose to take those pictures. Everyone tells you that do not do anything you would be embarrass about or that could come back and haunt you. I can remember from when I was younger that my parents told me not to post anything on the net or social networks that might get me in trouble, or that could ruin my reputation. Plus now a days people know that a lot of jobs will try and look at your facebook or other social network to see the real you.
I feel that when you are trying to run for office or anything that would put you in the public eye that you take the risk of having people look into your past and trying to dig up dirty on you. Just look at all the miss teen usa or pageant queens that lose their titles because of things they do. In 2008 Miss Teen USA from Louisiana lost her crown due to the fact of dining and dash and later the cops found drugs on her. The fact that she holds a place in society that the public views of course anything that happens to her is going to be aired.
I do believe that if you are in the public eye and do something wrong or someone tries to play dirty and release pictures of your past that you should confront it head on. Nothing good could come from running from the problems. If you confront it head on and tell everyone "Hey I am only human, we all make mistakes. We all like to have in college. But I understand it does not make me look good, but that was back than and this is me now." Also I feel it takes a bigger and stronger person to confront your problems especially in the public eye than to run from your problems.
With more and more women getting bigger jobs, I think that if more females run for office or jobs that when racy photos are released it might not be as big of a deal.
I feel that when you are trying to run for office or anything that would put you in the public eye that you take the risk of having people look into your past and trying to dig up dirty on you. Just look at all the miss teen usa or pageant queens that lose their titles because of things they do. In 2008 Miss Teen USA from Louisiana lost her crown due to the fact of dining and dash and later the cops found drugs on her. The fact that she holds a place in society that the public views of course anything that happens to her is going to be aired.
I do believe that if you are in the public eye and do something wrong or someone tries to play dirty and release pictures of your past that you should confront it head on. Nothing good could come from running from the problems. If you confront it head on and tell everyone "Hey I am only human, we all make mistakes. We all like to have in college. But I understand it does not make me look good, but that was back than and this is me now." Also I feel it takes a bigger and stronger person to confront your problems especially in the public eye than to run from your problems.
With more and more women getting bigger jobs, I think that if more females run for office or jobs that when racy photos are released it might not be as big of a deal.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Post # 6
My first reaction to these articles was "wow." Being a female, I of course agree with the issues of double-standards and sexism. But there is an entirely different meaning in the world of politics. But with these articles, I kept wanting Krystal Ball to just shut up. Yes it was extremely unfortunate for such an embarrassing even to have occured, and thus having the potential of ruining her dreams and her life. I admire her for "keeping her head held high" and to use her failure not as a setback but as a push to better herself in the long run. She is an incredibly strong woman to do so. However, I felt as if her argument and defense could only be used justly if she were an actual victim. She made the decision to act that way on camera, period. Going into politics, she kinda had it coming to her. Everyone knows that the opponent will use anything to get on top, and she practically fed it to them. No, it is completely wrong for the opponent to potentially destroy lives to better theirs, but in politics, this is just the way it is.
I also do not agree with her linking her misfortune with that of Hillary Clinton. Ball made a mistake, and her past had caught up with her. She was not a victim, she was only embarrassed. Clinton was a complete victim. None of the issues that arose while her husband was in office were her fault and they were not about her past. Clinton held her head high with complete devotion to her husband and his cause. That takes even more bravery and deserves more admiration than the issue with Ball.
I agree with the author when it is written that Ball is doing everything right in this situation. She is using it to her advantage and therefore growing because of it. That is very commendable. However, it upsets me that she would turn the attention to the way politics is ran, and then continues to aim attention towards sexism. This has nothing to do with sexism! How many times have male politicians been scrutinized and criticized for their misbehavior? It is continuous and inevitable. Like she said, she the first woman in this exact situation. That is unfortunate, but she should own up to it.
I also do not agree with her linking her misfortune with that of Hillary Clinton. Ball made a mistake, and her past had caught up with her. She was not a victim, she was only embarrassed. Clinton was a complete victim. None of the issues that arose while her husband was in office were her fault and they were not about her past. Clinton held her head high with complete devotion to her husband and his cause. That takes even more bravery and deserves more admiration than the issue with Ball.
I agree with the author when it is written that Ball is doing everything right in this situation. She is using it to her advantage and therefore growing because of it. That is very commendable. However, it upsets me that she would turn the attention to the way politics is ran, and then continues to aim attention towards sexism. This has nothing to do with sexism! How many times have male politicians been scrutinized and criticized for their misbehavior? It is continuous and inevitable. Like she said, she the first woman in this exact situation. That is unfortunate, but she should own up to it.
Post #5
I have yet to go and see The Social Network, but I do plan to do so. Aside from the fact that it is all about Facebook, I think it just looks like a good movie. I think there was an average amount of hype for this movie. It most certainly wasn't considered a blockbuster, but a real-life dramatic portrayal about a "revolution" that is very much shaping our current world would most likely pique the interest of movie goers in general.
In my opinon, Mark Zuckerberg got the bitter end to his sweet story. It is not uncommon for people involved in an idea to get jealous when they are not given enough credit for their contribution. This happens time and time again with new inventions and business ideas. I agree with the author, Laura Sydell, when she writes about Zuckerberg wanting to change the world. I think he is definitely changing the world. Not even ten years ago, did we know what it meant to write on a virtual wall, "like" a posting of someone's current status, or to use the word "facebook" as a verb. I agree, he has changed the world in the way humans communicate and network with each other. However, I also agree with Sydell who made it a point to include that he's not really changing the world for a greater cause, such as world peace. I think that the potential is there, as is also true for anyone with power and money.
I think that Zuckerberg might have received a negative portrayal in The Social Network. It seems like throughout these articles and previews, the main message was directed towards the issues that arose between friends and all the included drama. Although that story is important and it is interesting to see how Facebook began, I feel like Zuckerberg is not getting the recognition he deserves for his accomplishments. He is using the wealth he has obtained for the greater good, which may elude to his drive to change the world. Who knows, he may later change Sydell's opinion about him down the road.
In my opinon, Mark Zuckerberg got the bitter end to his sweet story. It is not uncommon for people involved in an idea to get jealous when they are not given enough credit for their contribution. This happens time and time again with new inventions and business ideas. I agree with the author, Laura Sydell, when she writes about Zuckerberg wanting to change the world. I think he is definitely changing the world. Not even ten years ago, did we know what it meant to write on a virtual wall, "like" a posting of someone's current status, or to use the word "facebook" as a verb. I agree, he has changed the world in the way humans communicate and network with each other. However, I also agree with Sydell who made it a point to include that he's not really changing the world for a greater cause, such as world peace. I think that the potential is there, as is also true for anyone with power and money.
I think that Zuckerberg might have received a negative portrayal in The Social Network. It seems like throughout these articles and previews, the main message was directed towards the issues that arose between friends and all the included drama. Although that story is important and it is interesting to see how Facebook began, I feel like Zuckerberg is not getting the recognition he deserves for his accomplishments. He is using the wealth he has obtained for the greater good, which may elude to his drive to change the world. Who knows, he may later change Sydell's opinion about him down the road.
Post #6
Women’s public sexuality should be no different than a man’s, regardless if it is in relation to business, politics or otherwise. This is something that has slowly evolved and will continue to change over time. The internet has made many items available with the only a few clicks. With even a limited amount of online searching knowledge, incriminating pictures, stories or videos can be found of nearly any political figure.
Social networking has made it acceptable to show racy pictures online. The youth that are sharing these pictures today will be leading our country in the future. Our Great-Great-Grandparents thought that women should not be allowed to vote; today’s society says it is perfectly normal. Looking back at President Clinton only 10 years ago, he was ridiculed for smoking marijuana but not inhaling. President Obama has openly spoken about his previous use of marijuana but it was not made into the same scandal that President Clinton dealt with.
Krystal Ball decided to acknowledge what she did and not back down. She is a Democrat running in a Republican state and is not likely she would have won the race. Now that attention has been brought to her name, she may get more votes. Had Ball not stood up for herself, someone else eventually would.
My prediction is now that this topic has been addressed in the media, the next candidate with racy pictures during elections will not be ridiculed the same way as Ball. She has set the bar and everyone else will follow.
Social networking has made it acceptable to show racy pictures online. The youth that are sharing these pictures today will be leading our country in the future. Our Great-Great-Grandparents thought that women should not be allowed to vote; today’s society says it is perfectly normal. Looking back at President Clinton only 10 years ago, he was ridiculed for smoking marijuana but not inhaling. President Obama has openly spoken about his previous use of marijuana but it was not made into the same scandal that President Clinton dealt with.
Krystal Ball decided to acknowledge what she did and not back down. She is a Democrat running in a Republican state and is not likely she would have won the race. Now that attention has been brought to her name, she may get more votes. Had Ball not stood up for herself, someone else eventually would.
My prediction is now that this topic has been addressed in the media, the next candidate with racy pictures during elections will not be ridiculed the same way as Ball. She has set the bar and everyone else will follow.
Response to Post #6
Krystal Ball is a Virginia Democrat that may have different political views than I have; however I do not see any reason why she should not be elected to office because of some photos taken six years ago at a private party. I do not agree that there is a double standard between men and women who run for office and the private affairs that get brought to light. There have been plenty of cases where electoral candidate’s pictures have been used against them. Read NDP candidate in B.C. election quits over racy photos in Facebook. http://www.cbc.ca/canada/bcvotes2009/story/2009/04/20/bc-election-lam-facebook.html. This article describes a male candidate that withdrew for the election because of photos that surface from his Facebook pages.
The public elects the candidates not the media. How the candidate chooses to handle these type of situations will ultimately determine their outcome. I believe if she would have handled the situation differently than it may have helped her numbers instead of possibly hurting them. If she would have simply stated that these are pictures of her from a private party held six years ago and she is embarrassed that they have been released; however it will have no effect on her ability to make sound political decisions then I believe the situation would have died out. I think instead she was advised to take it down a different route so she would gain more public exposure. The more the public sees you the higher the chances you are to be elected.
In years past many of the elected candidates have been those that were able to raise the most money and therefore able to publicize their campaign the most. This year is slightly different in that people are tired of the past candidates and are really tired of the current political officials. I hope that people will begin to elect candidates because of the values they hold and their commitment to uphold the constitution. The media can have an adverse effect on the outcome of a candidates running and for this reason I believe they should stick to presenting the facts rather than their opinions about the facts.
The public elects the candidates not the media. How the candidate chooses to handle these type of situations will ultimately determine their outcome. I believe if she would have handled the situation differently than it may have helped her numbers instead of possibly hurting them. If she would have simply stated that these are pictures of her from a private party held six years ago and she is embarrassed that they have been released; however it will have no effect on her ability to make sound political decisions then I believe the situation would have died out. I think instead she was advised to take it down a different route so she would gain more public exposure. The more the public sees you the higher the chances you are to be elected.
In years past many of the elected candidates have been those that were able to raise the most money and therefore able to publicize their campaign the most. This year is slightly different in that people are tired of the past candidates and are really tired of the current political officials. I hope that people will begin to elect candidates because of the values they hold and their commitment to uphold the constitution. The media can have an adverse effect on the outcome of a candidates running and for this reason I believe they should stick to presenting the facts rather than their opinions about the facts.
Post #6
After reading these articles, I have to say I would probably support Kyrstal Ball. Of course, I don’t know her political opinions so I can’t be 100% on that. But based on the way she has handled this situation, I have a lot of respect for her. People have pasts. I don’t think that makes them bad people. I think that because times are changing and everything is becoming more virtual (as discussed in our last blog post), it is impossible to put your past behind you. But should you have to? Why should she have to hide that part of her life? She went to college and she went to a Christmas party. I know plenty of intelligent girls who have dressed up in a revealing Halloween costume. That doesn’t make them incompetent. I think people should be focusing on her opinions and her stand on political issues. Isn’t that what’s really important?
I think she’s great for running for office. I agree with her that maybe things would be different if younger people got more involved with politics. But politics is a game, and it seems like you have to be old, boring and wealthy to play. How do those people rightly represent all Americans? Politics should be comprised of people of all sorts. Young and old, with different educations, different incomes, different backgrounds. Gender should definitely not be a defining issue, but it is. Those women who do overcome it are paving the way for future women.
I think that if you dug far enough, you could find something unfavorable about every politician. Everyone has a past. Everyone makes mistakes. And pictures really are forever. In this day, I have learned: If you don’t want people to know about it, don’t do it. Honestly. But how can you live your life not doing anything that might upset someone else. Especially in the public eye? I don’t think Kyrstal is incapable of serving in Congress because of these pictures. And no one else should either. Maybe if we were looking at the real issues, we would better determine how she would represent her people.
I think she’s great for running for office. I agree with her that maybe things would be different if younger people got more involved with politics. But politics is a game, and it seems like you have to be old, boring and wealthy to play. How do those people rightly represent all Americans? Politics should be comprised of people of all sorts. Young and old, with different educations, different incomes, different backgrounds. Gender should definitely not be a defining issue, but it is. Those women who do overcome it are paving the way for future women.
I think that if you dug far enough, you could find something unfavorable about every politician. Everyone has a past. Everyone makes mistakes. And pictures really are forever. In this day, I have learned: If you don’t want people to know about it, don’t do it. Honestly. But how can you live your life not doing anything that might upset someone else. Especially in the public eye? I don’t think Kyrstal is incapable of serving in Congress because of these pictures. And no one else should either. Maybe if we were looking at the real issues, we would better determine how she would represent her people.
Post #5
Because I haven't seen the movie, I can't be quite sure how I feel about it. However, after reading those articles, I have mixed feelings. It seems like Zuckerberg has been under a lot of scrutiny throughout most of the process of developing Facebook. A number of people have filed complaints about Zuckerberg having stolen their ideas and shares of the company. That can give people a negative view of him. I also think that a lot of people could be jealous of how his little project turned him into a billionaire. Of course people are going to attack him; people sue over hot coffee these days. Anything to make a few dollars.
About the 100 million dollar donation, I think that’s crazy. I haven’t done a whole lot of research, so I could be wrong here, but what school district really needs that much money? And why that particular school district? Why not spread it out just a little? I think helping public schools is great, but why not give one million dollars to a hundred schools? And I have to say I feel like he probably did it in an extreme effort to portray himself as a “good guy.” Where has he tried to help before? And I know wealthy people can make a difference by donating money but it just kind of seems like an easy way out. Why doesn’t he donate his time and efforts into something rather than just throwing tons of money at a school district? And that stuff about him getting persuaded not to donate it anonymously, of course those guys from New Jersey are going to support him and make him look like the good guy. They are getting 100 million dollars for their schools!
I think that Facebook is becoming a revolution. People are communicating virtually now rather than having actual conversations. This is huge. The way the world communicates is changing drastically. I can’t say whether it’s good or bad, I think there are advantages and disadvantages to this new way of communicating. But Zuckerberg has definitely changed the world. Not to say that MySpace and other websites haven’t. Communication will never be the same. I have to say that I have becoming more and more aware of my privacy now though. That is my biggest concern with the virtual world these days.
About the 100 million dollar donation, I think that’s crazy. I haven’t done a whole lot of research, so I could be wrong here, but what school district really needs that much money? And why that particular school district? Why not spread it out just a little? I think helping public schools is great, but why not give one million dollars to a hundred schools? And I have to say I feel like he probably did it in an extreme effort to portray himself as a “good guy.” Where has he tried to help before? And I know wealthy people can make a difference by donating money but it just kind of seems like an easy way out. Why doesn’t he donate his time and efforts into something rather than just throwing tons of money at a school district? And that stuff about him getting persuaded not to donate it anonymously, of course those guys from New Jersey are going to support him and make him look like the good guy. They are getting 100 million dollars for their schools!
I think that Facebook is becoming a revolution. People are communicating virtually now rather than having actual conversations. This is huge. The way the world communicates is changing drastically. I can’t say whether it’s good or bad, I think there are advantages and disadvantages to this new way of communicating. But Zuckerberg has definitely changed the world. Not to say that MySpace and other websites haven’t. Communication will never be the same. I have to say that I have becoming more and more aware of my privacy now though. That is my biggest concern with the virtual world these days.
Monday, October 18, 2010
#5 The Social Network
When I first saw previews of The Social Network, I thought it looked rather boring. I haven't seen the movie and don't plan on it. I really don't use facebook so a movie about it doesn't appeal to me much.
After reading Zuckerburg's biography, it seems he's a really smart guy who took actions getting the network started and kept moving forward. I was surprised to see the producers didn't talk with Zuckerburg first before making the film. I would be disappointed also if I was portrayed negatively in a movie. I think if they were going to change some situations, such as, the reason for starting the site, then they should change the names of the characters as well. This movie is going to have an impact on Zuckerburg's reputation one way or the other.
As one of the articles stated, people may either use facebook more because of it or draw away from it more.
After reading Zuckerburg's biography, it seems he's a really smart guy who took actions getting the network started and kept moving forward. I was surprised to see the producers didn't talk with Zuckerburg first before making the film. I would be disappointed also if I was portrayed negatively in a movie. I think if they were going to change some situations, such as, the reason for starting the site, then they should change the names of the characters as well. This movie is going to have an impact on Zuckerburg's reputation one way or the other.
As one of the articles stated, people may either use facebook more because of it or draw away from it more.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
post 6
In the media age everything you do and say can be publicized one way or another. Where is the line though between privacy and publicity of actions? the two have become one almost of blurred together so much that trying to draw a line between the two is nearly impossible unless it is an extreme situation. I do not have a facebook or myspace for this very reason. I may want to run for pulic office and do not want to have anything posted on the internet. Once it is on the net, it will be out there forever. I know you can not stop someone from taking a picture of you, but you can watch your actions in public places and try to be aware of others who may try to take private or inappropriate picture of you in order to ruin your name or reputation.
In the case of Krystal Ball, she did decide to dress up inappropriately and even though it was six years ago it will still have a negative effect on her chances to win the race. I do think men are attacked to though. To say that only women are attacked in sexual form may be a weak arguement. the recent NFL and past NBA incidence with professional atheletes have been also exploited. Certain people are out there to try and get with a professional athelete in a sexual way and then turn around and sue for sexual harassement. Perfect example is the Kobe Bryant case a few years ago. That girl certaintly wanted to "Hook Up" with him and then turned around and tried to sue him for money. That is why the case was settled and dismissed. She refused to testify against him under oath.
The moral to all of these stories is to always keep in mind that what you are saying and doing can and may end up being publicized later to try and hurt your reputation.
In the case of Krystal Ball, she did decide to dress up inappropriately and even though it was six years ago it will still have a negative effect on her chances to win the race. I do think men are attacked to though. To say that only women are attacked in sexual form may be a weak arguement. the recent NFL and past NBA incidence with professional atheletes have been also exploited. Certain people are out there to try and get with a professional athelete in a sexual way and then turn around and sue for sexual harassement. Perfect example is the Kobe Bryant case a few years ago. That girl certaintly wanted to "Hook Up" with him and then turned around and tried to sue him for money. That is why the case was settled and dismissed. She refused to testify against him under oath.
The moral to all of these stories is to always keep in mind that what you are saying and doing can and may end up being publicized later to try and hurt your reputation.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Prompt #6
Women are most commonly either sexualized by media or criticized for their perceived sexuality. Even in occupations, like in political positions, where being overtly sexual is frowned upon, women are still seen as sexual objects and judged based on their perceived femininity. The media will criticize Krystal Ball for taking pictures that they deem too risqué, and at the same time the same media outlets will criticize Elena Kagan for looking too “manly” and not presenting an appearance of femininity.
In Ball’s case, many people form their opinions of her based on personal pictures of her home life instead of her ability to act in a political position and the authority she can express to accomplish political agendas. The pictures that people take offense to aren’t even socially unacceptable pictures for the majority of people, yet that same majority is judging her quite harshly. I don’t hold candidates that I support politically to a higher casual-setting social standard than I hold my friends or family members. As long as no one is behaving in an obscene manner and all necessary body parts are covered, I don’t see anything as being too sexually explicit for my friends or for business professionals after hours. Clearly not everyone has the same standards of obscenity, but that standard should be steady across the board, whether the opinion is of a friend, family member, or business professional.
The real issue at hand seems to not be the fact that she acted in this way, but the fact that pictures were taken and seen by the voting public. With vastly expanding social networks this is a fairly new issue, but it’s not one that will go away any time soon. In fact, it will only grow worse. Currently most politicians are too old to have been involved with a social network before his or her career. They know what they should and should not put on the internet for the voting public to see, and they are highly unlikely to incriminate themselves by posting something they are aware can be damaging. As long as that generation is in power, the privacy of social networks will only occasionally come into play.
However, as current politicians retire, younger and younger candidates are cropping up to hopefully fill those positions. This upcoming generation had networks like facebook and myspace with which they had the opportunity to completely embarrass themselves earlier in life. Teenagers and young adults, possibly with no desire to enter into politics or another business setting might not consider all of the possible consequences of posting pictures that visually represent immaturity. As a 21-year-old college student frolicking in the snow in a tank top and miniskirt, a picture to remember the moment probably seems innocuous or even like a fantastic idea. But if those pictures came to light ten years later when that person tries to advance in the business world, it is perceived completely differently.
More and more people with pictures showing lapses in judgment will try to achieve high statuses in politics and business because the generation that didn’t have that problem is aging out. It’s important to keep in mind that the current businesspeople and politicians were not necessarily more mature or conservative in their personal lives, but it just wasn’t as easy to document and share those moments with the world. Professionals should be judged on their professional activities as long as their personal lives exist within legal boundaries. However, a simple fact is that they’re not judged solely on their ability to excel in the workplace, and younger generations need to be aware of their current activities and how those activities will inevitably reflect on them later in life.
In Ball’s case, many people form their opinions of her based on personal pictures of her home life instead of her ability to act in a political position and the authority she can express to accomplish political agendas. The pictures that people take offense to aren’t even socially unacceptable pictures for the majority of people, yet that same majority is judging her quite harshly. I don’t hold candidates that I support politically to a higher casual-setting social standard than I hold my friends or family members. As long as no one is behaving in an obscene manner and all necessary body parts are covered, I don’t see anything as being too sexually explicit for my friends or for business professionals after hours. Clearly not everyone has the same standards of obscenity, but that standard should be steady across the board, whether the opinion is of a friend, family member, or business professional.
The real issue at hand seems to not be the fact that she acted in this way, but the fact that pictures were taken and seen by the voting public. With vastly expanding social networks this is a fairly new issue, but it’s not one that will go away any time soon. In fact, it will only grow worse. Currently most politicians are too old to have been involved with a social network before his or her career. They know what they should and should not put on the internet for the voting public to see, and they are highly unlikely to incriminate themselves by posting something they are aware can be damaging. As long as that generation is in power, the privacy of social networks will only occasionally come into play.
However, as current politicians retire, younger and younger candidates are cropping up to hopefully fill those positions. This upcoming generation had networks like facebook and myspace with which they had the opportunity to completely embarrass themselves earlier in life. Teenagers and young adults, possibly with no desire to enter into politics or another business setting might not consider all of the possible consequences of posting pictures that visually represent immaturity. As a 21-year-old college student frolicking in the snow in a tank top and miniskirt, a picture to remember the moment probably seems innocuous or even like a fantastic idea. But if those pictures came to light ten years later when that person tries to advance in the business world, it is perceived completely differently.
More and more people with pictures showing lapses in judgment will try to achieve high statuses in politics and business because the generation that didn’t have that problem is aging out. It’s important to keep in mind that the current businesspeople and politicians were not necessarily more mature or conservative in their personal lives, but it just wasn’t as easy to document and share those moments with the world. Professionals should be judged on their professional activities as long as their personal lives exist within legal boundaries. However, a simple fact is that they’re not judged solely on their ability to excel in the workplace, and younger generations need to be aware of their current activities and how those activities will inevitably reflect on them later in life.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Post 6
After reading these articles I believe that this is a good example of when women are discriminated against and put down in politics. Having embarrassing photo's released all over the net is a terrible thing to have done to you especially when you are running for a public office its practical murder to some. I think that these photo's are irrelevant to her running for office but they can detour others. Ball looks up to Hillary and Palin as leaders of women in politics. I think that they are both good examples of women who were hammered with bad press but still go on.
She stated the pictures were put out there to make her seem like a whore or hooker. I think that they do a good job of discrediting her. Most people ask how these photo's are relevant to her political career but they make it harder for people to take her serious or want to back her.
As to whether the public humiliation online or in the press is able to be fought, I would have to say it can't. With quick news and easy access it is all to easy to hurt someone with embarrassing pictures or information. I don't think its right that people do this but without infringing on our right there is little we can do to stop it. Politics shouldn't change in my opinion because their are always ways to discredit or shame people and all the Internet does is makes it faster. I don't think that we should base our political futures on people sex lives, sexual preferences, race or ethnicity but these will always be problems. There are always gonna be people out there to smear or tarnish your name and all you can do about them is face them or get past them.
She stated the pictures were put out there to make her seem like a whore or hooker. I think that they do a good job of discrediting her. Most people ask how these photo's are relevant to her political career but they make it harder for people to take her serious or want to back her.
As to whether the public humiliation online or in the press is able to be fought, I would have to say it can't. With quick news and easy access it is all to easy to hurt someone with embarrassing pictures or information. I don't think its right that people do this but without infringing on our right there is little we can do to stop it. Politics shouldn't change in my opinion because their are always ways to discredit or shame people and all the Internet does is makes it faster. I don't think that we should base our political futures on people sex lives, sexual preferences, race or ethnicity but these will always be problems. There are always gonna be people out there to smear or tarnish your name and all you can do about them is face them or get past them.
Post 5 social network
I believe that the movie is blown out of proportion. This movie does show a popular website in it being created. I have not seen this movie yet but from what I can gather it shows someone takes an idea and makes it their own. We all do this just because someone had an idea similar doesn't mean they should get everything in between. If this were true the guy who created the phone should get credit for the Internet and everything else that helps us talk to people. I get the feeling that greed is not always right. As read in the articles Zuckerberg is portrayed darkly in this movie but most people with money are portrayed as bad or evil. I think the main reason behind the dislike of those who become rich is they became successful and we didn't so they must be smarter or have done something bad to get this, obviously most people will opt for bad before conceding they had a good idea. So far as i can tell from the movie is they make a social network then everyone gets greedy and in the end Zuckerberg comes out on top.
If you look at the greed is good mentality, you have to ask where you are on that list. If you ask someone what they would do with a million dollars most people would say they will spend it on some big or fun thing, and some say they will save it and live off it sounds greedy? Next you ask someone what someone like Zuckerberg and bill gates what they do with there money technically they are using it to make more money also sounds greedy. I think success causes people to demonize others because they have what we want or need. I just think people are over exaggerating this movie to much these people got lucky and made some smart moves. Its a good idea to show how some people make money but not whether they should have or not, its up to the courts and your own opinion. I don't think I see Zuckerberg as a hero, But I do see him as a good business man.
If you look at the greed is good mentality, you have to ask where you are on that list. If you ask someone what they would do with a million dollars most people would say they will spend it on some big or fun thing, and some say they will save it and live off it sounds greedy? Next you ask someone what someone like Zuckerberg and bill gates what they do with there money technically they are using it to make more money also sounds greedy. I think success causes people to demonize others because they have what we want or need. I just think people are over exaggerating this movie to much these people got lucky and made some smart moves. Its a good idea to show how some people make money but not whether they should have or not, its up to the courts and your own opinion. I don't think I see Zuckerberg as a hero, But I do see him as a good business man.
Prompt #5
I saw “Social Network” opening weekend and enjoyed it. I felt it shed light on a situation that I was unaware had happened. Leading up to the release, I heard about the movie was going to reveal what really happened at the time Facebook was created, yet let the viewer decide who was right. I believe it did just that.
After watching the movie, I felt for Mark Zuckerberg. He was asked to create a website and was given the smallest amount of information to start with. From that basic idea, he designed and created the entire website by himself; his best friend being the financer. The Winklevoss twins then claimed Zuckerberg stole their idea, when it was the twins who invited Zuckerberg into their home. Once the website went live, he continued to tweak it and allow new universities to join. Eventually he got it to where it is today, allowing everyone to join.
I heard on the radio earlier this week that Mark Zuckerberg created the same type of website while in High School, called “The Facebook”. It was a compilation of student pictures, names, and phone numbers. Hearing this information confirms my belief that Zuckerberg took nothing from the twins, he did it all himself.
After viewing the movie, I have not changed my usage of Facebook, nor do I plan to. I’m not an entrepreneur in the least, but I am inspired by seeing what a student can do if they put their mind to it.
After watching the movie, I felt for Mark Zuckerberg. He was asked to create a website and was given the smallest amount of information to start with. From that basic idea, he designed and created the entire website by himself; his best friend being the financer. The Winklevoss twins then claimed Zuckerberg stole their idea, when it was the twins who invited Zuckerberg into their home. Once the website went live, he continued to tweak it and allow new universities to join. Eventually he got it to where it is today, allowing everyone to join.
I heard on the radio earlier this week that Mark Zuckerberg created the same type of website while in High School, called “The Facebook”. It was a compilation of student pictures, names, and phone numbers. Hearing this information confirms my belief that Zuckerberg took nothing from the twins, he did it all himself.
After viewing the movie, I have not changed my usage of Facebook, nor do I plan to. I’m not an entrepreneur in the least, but I am inspired by seeing what a student can do if they put their mind to it.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
INSTRUCTOR POST # 6
Read this NPR article - Candidate's Racy Photos Raise Sexism, Privacy Issues
Also read Ball's own post here
I feel like this topic is definitely pertinent to the idea of business writing - in this case the business is politics, but the same ideas apply. There's a lot going on in this debate, and I want you to be free to discuss what you want, but here are some things to get you going.
What are your opinions women's public sexuality (in relation to business or politics) in regards to the article and Ball's claims? What complications may arise in this issue (from the perspective of either side), and what are your feelings on the idea of a double standard? Is Ball justified in comparing herself to Hillary Clinton?
What are your feelings about the "privacy becoming public" side of this issue? In this social networking world, it's beginning to seem impossible to keep things private, and it's a definite fact that the carefree, facebooking college students of today will become the leaders of tomorrow. Should they suffer for any semi-racy picture a competitor can find? How will (or must) things change? What are some of the "perils of the digital age" you can forsee and how do you see them affecting the world of business or politics?
Also read Ball's own post here
I feel like this topic is definitely pertinent to the idea of business writing - in this case the business is politics, but the same ideas apply. There's a lot going on in this debate, and I want you to be free to discuss what you want, but here are some things to get you going.
What are your opinions women's public sexuality (in relation to business or politics) in regards to the article and Ball's claims? What complications may arise in this issue (from the perspective of either side), and what are your feelings on the idea of a double standard? Is Ball justified in comparing herself to Hillary Clinton?
What are your feelings about the "privacy becoming public" side of this issue? In this social networking world, it's beginning to seem impossible to keep things private, and it's a definite fact that the carefree, facebooking college students of today will become the leaders of tomorrow. Should they suffer for any semi-racy picture a competitor can find? How will (or must) things change? What are some of the "perils of the digital age" you can forsee and how do you see them affecting the world of business or politics?
Post #5
I think it is funny that we are talking about a movie that has had so much hype and I have not even heard of it. I admit that I use Facebook to play games and chat with friends that I would normally never know anything about. I am beginning to realize I do not pay as much attention to the hype as I used to. I typically watch a movie or two a week and I have found that I do not give much attention to the previews. I am no longer impressed with the tell all previews. When it is time for a commercial I change the channel. I read all three articles and did not find that any of them sparked my interest in this film. I had to read the other two posts and watch trailers of the film just to get something to type about.
There is nothing about this film that would make me want to spend $10 to see it in the theater. This looks like a Red Box or a Netflix type movie. Now that I have watched the trailers it has sparked my interest a little but not much. I believe if you did a movie like this on any company or person who has the type of success that Facebook has had that you will find they all have their little secrets of how they got to the top and how people feel they were used or stepped on to get them there. The hard work and dedication it takes to make a company successful over years and years is not something everyone has. It takes a certain type of person to dedicate themselves to something and make it successful. Facebook has changed immensely since it first came out. It is because of those changes and the ability to continue to change that will keep them as the number one social site. Facebook was not the first of its kind and I am sure it will not be the last.
There is nothing about this film that would make me want to spend $10 to see it in the theater. This looks like a Red Box or a Netflix type movie. Now that I have watched the trailers it has sparked my interest a little but not much. I believe if you did a movie like this on any company or person who has the type of success that Facebook has had that you will find they all have their little secrets of how they got to the top and how people feel they were used or stepped on to get them there. The hard work and dedication it takes to make a company successful over years and years is not something everyone has. It takes a certain type of person to dedicate themselves to something and make it successful. Facebook has changed immensely since it first came out. It is because of those changes and the ability to continue to change that will keep them as the number one social site. Facebook was not the first of its kind and I am sure it will not be the last.
McDonald's Post #4
McDonald’s is looking for the next best way to get people to spend more money in their stores. I do not believe the concepts they are trying to achieve are too aggressive; however their approach at changing all of their stores in such a short amount of time seems a bit risky. McDonalds may be attempting to appeal to a different audience with the TV’s, chairs, and atmosphere, but right now people are watching their pocketbooks. This may not be the most economical time to bring in more expensive items on the menu.
The two articles listed to not suggest that McDonalds built test facilities and had such a successful run that they decided to change all of their stores. Instead it appears that someone decided they wanted a change and that everyone including the franchise facilities must join in no matter the cost or outcome. Changing what you do to keep up with the times is acceptable; however if what you have done has brought you the type of success that McDonalds has had then why change anything.
I would compare this change to the attempt Pizza Hut made when they decided to open a few classier restaurants. I am not aware of any of them being around anymore. Pizza Hut has also changed the look of their roof and the inside of the restaurant. My father who retired from Pizza Hut has told me that none of those changes kept people coming back. The biggest jump in sales came when Pizza Hut lowered their prices to compete with the other pizza places of lower quality.
I along with many others decide on the places we eat because of how much we like the food they serve. Quality food at a good price will bring people back time and time again. I enjoy McDonalds because of the speed of service and the memories I have of going there when I was a kid. McDonalds needs to be careful not to change the things that have given them their success.
The two articles listed to not suggest that McDonalds built test facilities and had such a successful run that they decided to change all of their stores. Instead it appears that someone decided they wanted a change and that everyone including the franchise facilities must join in no matter the cost or outcome. Changing what you do to keep up with the times is acceptable; however if what you have done has brought you the type of success that McDonalds has had then why change anything.
I would compare this change to the attempt Pizza Hut made when they decided to open a few classier restaurants. I am not aware of any of them being around anymore. Pizza Hut has also changed the look of their roof and the inside of the restaurant. My father who retired from Pizza Hut has told me that none of those changes kept people coming back. The biggest jump in sales came when Pizza Hut lowered their prices to compete with the other pizza places of lower quality.
I along with many others decide on the places we eat because of how much we like the food they serve. Quality food at a good price will bring people back time and time again. I enjoy McDonalds because of the speed of service and the memories I have of going there when I was a kid. McDonalds needs to be careful not to change the things that have given them their success.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
McDonald's
I think the change in McDonald’s is a step in the right direction. However, I think they will need to do a lot more than just redesign their building designs. While a new, more comfortable look might help, I’m not sure it is worth the year’s profits, especially when there is no evidence this will increase profits.
What the company really needs to change, is their menu. I think they need to redesign their food. I realize that cheeseburgers are a tradition at McDonald’s, and they are important. However, I think there are probably some steps they could take to make them healthier. As well as the French fries and other menu items. I think their unhealthy food is the biggest threat to them these days and if they are trying to survive this is probably more important than putting in fireplaces and couches.
Once their menu is significantly healthier, I think the building redesigns might be decent idea. Their look is kind of outdated, and their building designs probably appeal to kids more than teenagers and adults. Adding places to study or work or socialize is a good idea. But if they are trying to survive in the long-run, I think they should focus their time and money elsewhere.
What the company really needs to change, is their menu. I think they need to redesign their food. I realize that cheeseburgers are a tradition at McDonald’s, and they are important. However, I think there are probably some steps they could take to make them healthier. As well as the French fries and other menu items. I think their unhealthy food is the biggest threat to them these days and if they are trying to survive this is probably more important than putting in fireplaces and couches.
Once their menu is significantly healthier, I think the building redesigns might be decent idea. Their look is kind of outdated, and their building designs probably appeal to kids more than teenagers and adults. Adding places to study or work or socialize is a good idea. But if they are trying to survive in the long-run, I think they should focus their time and money elsewhere.
McDonalds
I think the changes that McDonalds has made in the recent years have been in responce to what the common public demand more than there own innivation and thoughts. Don't get me wrong they have changed things that are there own ideas and stratagies of stastanability. I will say though, if there was not a demand for a healthy salad. McDonalds would not be making one. Although that healthy salad has been proven to be not such a healthy salad after all.
McDonalds have taken a stance i believe to try and make a better image for themselves, especially in the recent years. I read in another blog that the changes in the resturants have become more appealing like the change in the tile and wall color. This is done more as an act of trying to make your customers feel relaxed and welcome. The light brown color they have implimented has been proven by pyscology as more of a relaxing color. These changes are a good change that will benefit all parts of business with McDonalds.
McDonalds have taken a stance i believe to try and make a better image for themselves, especially in the recent years. I read in another blog that the changes in the resturants have become more appealing like the change in the tile and wall color. This is done more as an act of trying to make your customers feel relaxed and welcome. The light brown color they have implimented has been proven by pyscology as more of a relaxing color. These changes are a good change that will benefit all parts of business with McDonalds.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Post 5 "Social Network"
I have not seen "Social Network" and honestly I have no plans too. Many of my friends have went to it. They give me mixed reviews some like it and some have nothing but negative things to say about it. From what I hear it doesn't quiet portray women in the best way. If that is that case why would I care to go see it being I'm a women.
I don't feel their is extra hype to it. I think it is getting the same attention as most new movies. I just think people thought it would cause more hype being how addicted many youth, young adults and adults are to the internet and social networks. But you have to realize that when a movie does get certain hype like saying how its a going to be such a great movie because it has been reviewed may make it hard to live up to. Look at all the hype Avatar got and I know of a lot of people that didn't like it. Sometimes when there is too much hype over a movie, it ruins the movie.
I think that the negative portrayal of Zuckerberg is a mixture of people thinking he doesn't deserve fame and wealth over such a simple site like facebook. But also just because you have a lot of wealth does not make you better than anyone. I can remember when facebook first started and you had to be a college student to join the site, or if you were younger a college student had to invite you. It was such a big thing back then but no its more of an addiction now.
I don't really think that Zuckerberg is selfish, because if you think about how the movie is, it talks about how even a co-founder of facebook sues Zuckerberg so wouldn't that make him selfish. Overall I just feel this movie was totally blown out of proportion and maybe that's the reason i don't feel the need to go see this movie. Also if a movie is suppose to be so great and all, and you go see it than the movie turns out nothing like you expected you feel let down. Not to mention if you disagree with the movie or let alone even parts of it and everyone else loves it, it kind of makes it hard to discuss with others because its like your the outcast.
I don't feel their is extra hype to it. I think it is getting the same attention as most new movies. I just think people thought it would cause more hype being how addicted many youth, young adults and adults are to the internet and social networks. But you have to realize that when a movie does get certain hype like saying how its a going to be such a great movie because it has been reviewed may make it hard to live up to. Look at all the hype Avatar got and I know of a lot of people that didn't like it. Sometimes when there is too much hype over a movie, it ruins the movie.
I think that the negative portrayal of Zuckerberg is a mixture of people thinking he doesn't deserve fame and wealth over such a simple site like facebook. But also just because you have a lot of wealth does not make you better than anyone. I can remember when facebook first started and you had to be a college student to join the site, or if you were younger a college student had to invite you. It was such a big thing back then but no its more of an addiction now.
I don't really think that Zuckerberg is selfish, because if you think about how the movie is, it talks about how even a co-founder of facebook sues Zuckerberg so wouldn't that make him selfish. Overall I just feel this movie was totally blown out of proportion and maybe that's the reason i don't feel the need to go see this movie. Also if a movie is suppose to be so great and all, and you go see it than the movie turns out nothing like you expected you feel let down. Not to mention if you disagree with the movie or let alone even parts of it and everyone else loves it, it kind of makes it hard to discuss with others because its like your the outcast.
Post 4 McDonalds
I think trying to change a company as big as McDonald's is a mistake. For many years everyone has know McDonald's by red roofs and golden arches. I get that they would want to stay modern and apply to everyone, but I don't see McDonald's going anywhere any time soon. Instead of doing all this upgrading on its look, you would think they would want to put more effort into food after Super Size Me. Super Size Me gave people a look into how bad fast food is. How about instead of trying to impress people by looks they impress people by changing food and trying to make it healthier.
Just because you change the look of something doesn't guarantee you'll get more business. But if they changed their menus to suit healthy people they might get new business. McDonald's keeps growing in different ways from serving cold coffee to bacon cheeseburgers, but changing their look is a mistake. If you add Terra cotta and olive green to the mix its going to throw people off. Also making Ronald McDonald more sporty? Little children know him as he is no as some sports athlete.
It seems like they are trying to make it more like Starbucks too. I'm sorry but I'm not going to go to a McDonald's to sit in comfortable armchair and try to do work when they have little kids running around and screaming in the play place. Won't get it noisy too if you have three different types of music playing to please each zone? I'm sorry but McDonald's is not a coffee house so why give it a coffee house feel!
Overall I feel the change is not a good think and they are trying to be something they aren't. They should focus more on their menu rather than looks.
Just because you change the look of something doesn't guarantee you'll get more business. But if they changed their menus to suit healthy people they might get new business. McDonald's keeps growing in different ways from serving cold coffee to bacon cheeseburgers, but changing their look is a mistake. If you add Terra cotta and olive green to the mix its going to throw people off. Also making Ronald McDonald more sporty? Little children know him as he is no as some sports athlete.
It seems like they are trying to make it more like Starbucks too. I'm sorry but I'm not going to go to a McDonald's to sit in comfortable armchair and try to do work when they have little kids running around and screaming in the play place. Won't get it noisy too if you have three different types of music playing to please each zone? I'm sorry but McDonald's is not a coffee house so why give it a coffee house feel!
Overall I feel the change is not a good think and they are trying to be something they aren't. They should focus more on their menu rather than looks.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Post #4 - McDonald's
Making a change as large as this on an image as distinct as McDonald’s is a mistake, in my opinion. For generations McDonald’s has been known for their golden arches and quick service. Instead of a face lift, I would recommend a change in food to improve the nutritional value.
Changing the interior of the stores may not bring in the amounts of people needed to increase sales. Many people are the “drive-thru only” type and won’t go inside to see any of the changes. In turn, they won’t be enticed to sit and relax while enjoying their specialty coffee. For these people, the multiple drive-thru lanes would be beneficial and greatly appreciated as long as the staff can keep up with the demand.
To compare to Pizza Hut’s rebranding over the last few years, they have been unsuccessful in capturing the sales desired. Pizza Hut tried multiple rebranding at the same time. They changed their name from Pizza Hut to The Hut, added Wing Street to some locations and Italian Bistro to others, and the buffet was also removed from nearly all locations. All of these changes at the same time only confused consumers and caused sales to plateau.
Changing the interior of the stores may not bring in the amounts of people needed to increase sales. Many people are the “drive-thru only” type and won’t go inside to see any of the changes. In turn, they won’t be enticed to sit and relax while enjoying their specialty coffee. For these people, the multiple drive-thru lanes would be beneficial and greatly appreciated as long as the staff can keep up with the demand.
To compare to Pizza Hut’s rebranding over the last few years, they have been unsuccessful in capturing the sales desired. Pizza Hut tried multiple rebranding at the same time. They changed their name from Pizza Hut to The Hut, added Wing Street to some locations and Italian Bistro to others, and the buffet was also removed from nearly all locations. All of these changes at the same time only confused consumers and caused sales to plateau.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Prompt #5
I haven’t seen “The Social Network” myself and have no plans to see it although I’ve heard many favorable reviews. I’ve also heard some negative things about the film and its portrayal of women, and that makes me not want to contribute to any profits gained from the creation of this movie.
The hype surrounding this movie is a really interesting aspect because most movies do not have a level of expectation surrounding their immediate release. With “The Social Network,” it was expected to be a fantastic movie before anyone had seen or reviewed it, and it can be difficult to live up to that kind of hype, even though it appears to be faring just fine regardless.
All the praises being directed towards this film very prematurely can also work against society as a whole. People go into the theater expecting to see this great masterpiece because everyone else has deemed it such. Even if an individual finds a problem with the film, that person is less likely to bring it up because everyone else has been favorable towards it. The hive mind really works against the long-term impact of a film because no one wants to be the only one to criticize, and when everyone else has been so positive about it, it’s also harder to look at it in a critical light. If everyone sings its praises but very few look at it critically, is it really a great film?
I strongly dislike capitalism. Although it does create an upward mobility and helps to annihilate the caste system, it leaves extremely wide windows for greed and the downturn of a consumerist society. The “greed is good” mentality has brought us to a plateau of wealth and prosperity to the benefit of highly unlikely people; however, it also costs us the integrity of the exchange system. When deciding on a career, many young people embark on the path most likely to make them wealthy instead of the path most likely to make them happy or the one most likely to benefit others. There is a strong, possibly flawed ideal that wealth equals happiness, and anyone can achieve this standard of wealth and should not be helped. Business ventures are not geared towards the common good or helping out those less fortunate or even creating something helpful to privileged people as well. The main goal of enterprise is to make the creator money, and all other benefits are unnecessary and oftentimes undesired.
The negative portrayal of Zuckerberg could suggest that he might have all the “success” and wealth that a person could ever dream to achieve, but that fails to make him a good person. Successful business people can obtain wealth, but this arbitrary line of success does not make them a better standard of person than those with absolutely no wealth at all.
Maybe I’m a cynic, but Zuckerberg’s recent philanthropy is probably a weak attempt to not appear like a selfish, greedy capitalist. However, in this case maybe the ends do justify the means. If his wealth helped those less fortunate, it might not matter if he was guilted into making the donation.
Zuckerberg’s story can inspire people to become something bigger than themselves in a good way by encouraging them to make valid contributions to society, but it can also play on the greed and money-hungry entrepreneurs that are not at all interested in creating something to benefit any other entity other than their pocketbooks. His story can encourage anyone to exploit others for fleeting financial gain in the pursuit of an arbitrary happiness.
The hype surrounding this movie is a really interesting aspect because most movies do not have a level of expectation surrounding their immediate release. With “The Social Network,” it was expected to be a fantastic movie before anyone had seen or reviewed it, and it can be difficult to live up to that kind of hype, even though it appears to be faring just fine regardless.
All the praises being directed towards this film very prematurely can also work against society as a whole. People go into the theater expecting to see this great masterpiece because everyone else has deemed it such. Even if an individual finds a problem with the film, that person is less likely to bring it up because everyone else has been favorable towards it. The hive mind really works against the long-term impact of a film because no one wants to be the only one to criticize, and when everyone else has been so positive about it, it’s also harder to look at it in a critical light. If everyone sings its praises but very few look at it critically, is it really a great film?
I strongly dislike capitalism. Although it does create an upward mobility and helps to annihilate the caste system, it leaves extremely wide windows for greed and the downturn of a consumerist society. The “greed is good” mentality has brought us to a plateau of wealth and prosperity to the benefit of highly unlikely people; however, it also costs us the integrity of the exchange system. When deciding on a career, many young people embark on the path most likely to make them wealthy instead of the path most likely to make them happy or the one most likely to benefit others. There is a strong, possibly flawed ideal that wealth equals happiness, and anyone can achieve this standard of wealth and should not be helped. Business ventures are not geared towards the common good or helping out those less fortunate or even creating something helpful to privileged people as well. The main goal of enterprise is to make the creator money, and all other benefits are unnecessary and oftentimes undesired.
The negative portrayal of Zuckerberg could suggest that he might have all the “success” and wealth that a person could ever dream to achieve, but that fails to make him a good person. Successful business people can obtain wealth, but this arbitrary line of success does not make them a better standard of person than those with absolutely no wealth at all.
Maybe I’m a cynic, but Zuckerberg’s recent philanthropy is probably a weak attempt to not appear like a selfish, greedy capitalist. However, in this case maybe the ends do justify the means. If his wealth helped those less fortunate, it might not matter if he was guilted into making the donation.
Zuckerberg’s story can inspire people to become something bigger than themselves in a good way by encouraging them to make valid contributions to society, but it can also play on the greed and money-hungry entrepreneurs that are not at all interested in creating something to benefit any other entity other than their pocketbooks. His story can encourage anyone to exploit others for fleeting financial gain in the pursuit of an arbitrary happiness.
Instructor Post #5
Everyone's talking about the new film "The Social Network," and since we're a business-orientated class, let's join in. I haven't actually seen the film yet (and you don't have to for this blog, unless you want to), but I've compiled some responses to the film that should spark discussion.
First, here's Mark Zuckerberg's Wikipedia page for basic background info.
Here's an NPR article with some responses to the film
And a Business Week article
What reactions do you have to all the hype? Where do you stand on the "Greed is Good" mentality of the eighties, where it's lead us, and how it pertains to current business endeavors. What would a negative portrayl of Zuckerberg say of how our culture views successful business people? What do you think of Zuckerberg's recent philanthropy in light of the film coming out? Is Facebook a "revolution?" How might Zuckerberg's story pertain to an up-and-coming entrepreneur, or someone with a vision. Feel free to comment on anything else that interests you pertaining to this topic.
First, here's Mark Zuckerberg's Wikipedia page for basic background info.
Here's an NPR article with some responses to the film
And a Business Week article
What reactions do you have to all the hype? Where do you stand on the "Greed is Good" mentality of the eighties, where it's lead us, and how it pertains to current business endeavors. What would a negative portrayl of Zuckerberg say of how our culture views successful business people? What do you think of Zuckerberg's recent philanthropy in light of the film coming out? Is Facebook a "revolution?" How might Zuckerberg's story pertain to an up-and-coming entrepreneur, or someone with a vision. Feel free to comment on anything else that interests you pertaining to this topic.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Post #4
I believe that McDonald's has already made great strides in improving their image. In the past few years we've seen them go from cheap and simple to offering gourmet coffees and "designer" salads. The old red tiled floors have gone by the wayside and in has come a lighter colored tiled that has a very clean look to it.
It is important for a business to have a business model that is constantly evolving and improving. An excellent example is the companies response to the movie "Super Size Me" by Morgan Spurlock. Shortly after the movie came out, McDonald's removed their super size option from the menu. They also added a few healthier options to their menu at the same time. As a result, they were able to minimize the impact of this film on their business.
I think that instead of spending so much money improving the physical look of their restaraunts, they would be better off designing a slightly healthier menu that could be served to the customers in a reasonable time frame. The company does not need to prove that their products are actual healthy options, they only need to show that they are healthier than their competitors.
McDonald's has already made great strides improving their image and it seems that they will continue that trend. They have managed to put a big dent in the profits of Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts by offering simliar coffees and using an aggressive marketing strategy. I don't think that the coffeehouse look would suit them very well, but I didn't think that they would do well selling coffee either.
It is important for a business to have a business model that is constantly evolving and improving. An excellent example is the companies response to the movie "Super Size Me" by Morgan Spurlock. Shortly after the movie came out, McDonald's removed their super size option from the menu. They also added a few healthier options to their menu at the same time. As a result, they were able to minimize the impact of this film on their business.
I think that instead of spending so much money improving the physical look of their restaraunts, they would be better off designing a slightly healthier menu that could be served to the customers in a reasonable time frame. The company does not need to prove that their products are actual healthy options, they only need to show that they are healthier than their competitors.
McDonald's has already made great strides improving their image and it seems that they will continue that trend. They have managed to put a big dent in the profits of Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts by offering simliar coffees and using an aggressive marketing strategy. I don't think that the coffeehouse look would suit them very well, but I didn't think that they would do well selling coffee either.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Mcdonald's Changes
I believe that McDonald's is doing the right think by expanding its business, to include more people by changing some of its restaurants. As with all business you have to grow and expand if you don't want to be left behind. This is McDonald's chance to try and get a new feel and fan basis. The current change over to a coffeehouse feel is a good choice in my beliefs. Do to the movie showing impressionism on children this could make McDonald's less child targeted and maybe take some of the heat off of them. It will also attempt to bring in more adults to eat and drink in there restaurant.
When i think of how they will change I think it would be better to start out slow and only change a few stores but if this works they will have a good start for changing more restaurants. I believe that this will not really change the way McDonald's operates though, just because it looks like a coffee house they got famous for cheap food, burgers, and fries. I doubt they will just give up on these for coffee. I see this change maybe changing a few stores permanently but I believe that for the most part people want McDonald's to stay the same. I would say keep McDonald's the same but that's just how I feel. They should continue trying to find new business and more ways to attract customers, so I think this change may work out but not on a large scale.
The choice to change it to a coffeehouse feel makes me wonder if this will work In the way they want it to. I have been in Mcdonald's before but it just dosent seem like a good place for coffee unless its to go. While you are there usually there are alot of children runing around and screeming, it just makes me wonder how you can change this to a calm peaceful place.
When i think of how they will change I think it would be better to start out slow and only change a few stores but if this works they will have a good start for changing more restaurants. I believe that this will not really change the way McDonald's operates though, just because it looks like a coffee house they got famous for cheap food, burgers, and fries. I doubt they will just give up on these for coffee. I see this change maybe changing a few stores permanently but I believe that for the most part people want McDonald's to stay the same. I would say keep McDonald's the same but that's just how I feel. They should continue trying to find new business and more ways to attract customers, so I think this change may work out but not on a large scale.
The choice to change it to a coffeehouse feel makes me wonder if this will work In the way they want it to. I have been in Mcdonald's before but it just dosent seem like a good place for coffee unless its to go. While you are there usually there are alot of children runing around and screeming, it just makes me wonder how you can change this to a calm peaceful place.
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