Snoop Dogg, "Sensual Seduction," Rap, 2007
Black Eyed Peas, "Party All The Time," 2009
TLC, "Red Light Special," 1994
Nelly Furtado ft. Timberland, "Promiscuous," 2006
While doing my research, I found the aim of pleasure to be more prevalent. I think it is more prevalent because America is an individualistic society. Instead of focusing on unity people tend to focus on their own pleasures and needs. Another thing about the pop culture is that some of the artist tends to talk about the good as well as the bad. For example, while they may be talking about some of the things they enjoy, they may also put the severe consequences that they may face in the same song. Nothing surprised me about this particular aim at all because these are songs that I listen to often. In regards to the difference of the Hindu understanding of pleasure and the American pop culture, Hindus believe in please “reasonable limits.” Some American artists have no problem with having fun until the police are called or if having fun requires them risking their lives’. The song “Pursuit of Happiness” by Kid Cudi is a good example of this.
I liked your interpretation of how america being a individualistic society, Pleasure does fit in that sense because in the Hindu text the saying was anything that pleases the self. The song choice was good for your interpretation. i agree fun has not limit
ReplyDeleteThanks. I appreciate the feedback!
ReplyDeleteHey Kiara,
ReplyDeleteI also really liked your interpretation of an individualistic society. I never would have thought of that. It's definitely true, however, because we see America being independent in a number of ways. Our very own culture encourages us to grow up, become educated, and get a job so we can provide for ourselves and get on our own feet. Obviously this same idea would be reflected in American music as well. I feel that if America was a collectivistic society, we would have many more songs concerning society and community service. We would be brought up thinking that our actions affect others and the rest of the world, rather than thinking our actions are just affecting us individually. I think the idea of America being individualistic rather than collectivistic explains a lot about American music and why people behave the way they do.
I really like the discussion going on here. Here is my take on this: America is about individual gain. People really don't seem to care about others and don't seem to think they have much affect on others. That is where so many people are wrong. Having personal gain and an ego is what is negatively hurting our society. If we all worked together and realized that everything we do affects everyone around us we probably wouldn't be so egotistical. I kind of took the same approach to pleasure songs as you did because everyone has different pleasures. Its completely fine to have different pleasure and to follow your highest joy just not if its for personal gain and hurting or bring other people down because we are all one. =D
ReplyDeleteThank you so much. I really appreciate you all feedback. I'm glad was able to spark such an interesting conversation. Sara, I really like that you pointed out that people dont understand the affect they have on others. I also feel that together as a group so many positive things can get done.
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