As we begin the literary study of "Peace Child," I am struck with the realization that like the Sawi, we, as educated modern peoples, live within our own cosmos of understanding, failing to recognize the metaphysical possibilities that exist outside the sphere of our physical existence.
We travel the world, we use the internet, we watch T.V., we study at university, we are modern man/woman. We claim to be advanced. Just look at the long list of technological advances we have made, or the scientific discoveries we have found, or the philosophical ideas we have thought. We are the pinnacle of any human that has ever existed on this planet…or are we?
As we explored in Flannery O’Connor’s works, we live in a time when nihilism and humanism rule, and the rejection of objective truth is the norm. In other words, there is not one "standard" lens through which we can see the world. To believe in the metaphysical or to have a belief system through which we live our lives is seen as a crutch for the weak.
My goal for you during this unit is that you would be a critical reader and a critical thinker, regardless of your world view. It is through the open-minded consideration of many different viewpoints that we begin to form a clearer picture of our own world view. This does not mean that we, like I mentioned previously, reject the idea of objective truth and search for meaning in an endless sea of subjectivity. Instead, I ask that we learn with passion and purpose, allowing the objective truth to emerge through our discussion and sharing of our different perspectives and opinions.
Then, and only then, will we be able to see beyond the limits of our stone-age cosmos, and like the Sawi, grasp the deeper spiritual truths that God has planted within every single one of us, leading us to discover the beauty of God’s objective truth.
Mr. Rader
"It is through the open-minded consideration of many different viewpoints that we begin to form a clearer picture of our own world view." I totally agree with you on this because I think that having a broad perspective is essential for thorough understanding of text. If we are too narrow minded, we will stick to everything we know, instead of exploring.
ReplyDeleteIt will be interesting to compare two different worlds - one that is modernized versus another that has been isolated - and see the vastly contrasting mindsets that have grown apart throughtout the unit. The blogging assignment will be extremely helpful in carefully approaching the outlandish culture portrayed in the novel as a class. And eventually the author's intention will emerge as we, a group with varying mindsets, digest the new concept given to us.
ReplyDeleteThis really made me think. We're so focused in looking at the world through one "standard" lens that we sometimes forget everything else that is not within our norms. I agree with this entry, all of us are blinded by the distractions of the world.
ReplyDeleteI like your ideas, especially the idea that we as humans often form our own reality, one that is very loosely based on fact. Who knows how little our technology and worldy positions are really worth. I also agree that it is the metaphysical, that although shown as something that is often wrong with society, is an important part of our lives. We do not see the physical particles that make up relationships, the soul, emotions, irrational decisions. Whether these are actual objects or rather an instinct formed to provide for us our very existence as living beings could be up for debate, but we all recognize that there is something that is outside of our universe. I hope to learn more in this class, and to advance both my knowledge and the classes understanding of literature, along with a new appreciation of our own life's reliance on the literary works of others
ReplyDeleteI agree with much of what is written here. This post really connected with the first chapters of the book and really stood out to me. What stood out most to me while reading your post was when you stated, "..There is not one "standard" lens through which we can see the world." This can directly relate to Chapter 4 in the book Peace Child when we see two very opposite cultures, lifestyles, and opinions. I think as we keep on reading we will see more of a contrast between these two worlds and their diversity. : )
ReplyDeleteDecades ago, the computer was considered a profound invention. The year I was born, the Internet was in the beta stage. Today, I am living in what is considered a 'sophisticated' world. However, that world doesn't just end with today. There is going to be 'tomorrow' and 'next year' and 'in a century.' No matter, when, where, or who you are, we cannot reach the pinnacle of anything.
ReplyDeleteWe experience the same emotions as the Sawi people did and we may even be experiencing what the Sawi once did as well. We, as humans, have parallel foundations. It is just the matter of how that person perceives it. There are truths, just myopic ways of looking at them and as analytical readers, we have to see through the perceptions and strip it down to the truths behind them. That is how I am approaching "Peace Child."
The irony of the "open-minded" peoples of the world also well shown through the idea of living in our own cosmos of understanding. As we dive into the text and immerse ourselves in the culture of the Sawi, it is important for us to be aware of our reactions and the reasoning behind them. This idea that because the Sawi people did not have modern technology or much contact with other peoples makes them, by default, ignorant and uncultured IS being narrow-minded. The Sawi are a homogenous people group with their own set of rules, a carefully structured society and culture. They are the epitome of a culture preserved and practically unscathed by globalization. On the surface the idea of "fattening with friendship" may seem absurd, but how much more horrific or atrocious is it than killing a unborn child because of a woman's "right". We need to be careful when passing judgments on the Sawi people, because it is their culture. We do not have to agree with all of their practices, but we do not have the right to simply dismiss it because we think it unimportant. As stated in the post, we also live in a cosmos and through this book we have the opportunity to expand the borders. The only question that now remains is: Will we use it?
ReplyDeleteHumans are ignorant, and sometimes ignorant of the very fact. We do not know if our knowledge is superior, if we are the pinnacle of human evolution, or even that of sentient life forms. We do, however, choose to use our knowledge to create and shape the world around us. The cosmos awaits for us to be its master, as we make our own cosmos. Anything outside of it is definitely important, but does not always concern us.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of that which is outside of your universe, I am now sentient.
Like you’ve mentioned I personally think that we people live in our own “bubble,” too; however I don’t agree with your point that we are “failing to recognize the metaphysical possibilities that exist outside the sphere of our physical existence.” The people are not oblivious but are indeed very aware of the metaphysical world except for the fact that they deny the truth. It’s the fear that people see before they approach the metaphysical world that keeps them from walking. The people are afraid to see the truth and also don’t want anything to disturb their “perfect” world. We are the imperfect living in “perfect” world.
ReplyDeleteWell this blogger thing just erased my really good comment and I guess I have to write another one. I agree with the whole cosmos idea you made. But I don't think there's a set standard defining a cosmos is has stone-age ideas, other cosmos has modern ideas, and all the others cosmos having whatever perspectives. I don't care if others think I'm in a bad cosmos or whatever. I believe in what I wish to believe and others can say nothing about it (they can but I won't listen to them). Just like Russell Peters said: "whatever makes you happy." I always just think about different viewpoints but I never try to set a 'name' or 'define' in a way.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, in questioning if the supposedly more 'modern' and 'educated' generations are truly more advanced than the ancient stone-age generations. I don't think that the technological advances, scientific discoveries and philosophical ideas are what determines one's world view, for two people presented with the same piece of evidence may each interprete the fact in totally different ways.
ReplyDeleteWhile still keeping one's mind open and being acceptable and respectful to another's thoughts, I think it is essential that we all be true to ourselves and or conscience in letting the facts formulate our beliefs.
I agree that we must be open minded in our view of the world and we need to consider other possiblities. However, not everyone is blinded by the things that are just around them. Many people just choose to be that way.
ReplyDeleteThis blogging method will be good as we will be able to share out view and we can fine new ones.
Peace Child has a completely new world of its own. It's hard to imagine that there are still people who live and breathe such "primitive" lives. Their customs and beliefs which are totally alien to us, at some points are even too much to take in. However the violence the Sawi experience in their culture are in a way no more gruesome than in our own "modern" world, for people around us commit the unspeakable every day. Just like you said, I believe that we should open our minds to the possibilities and understand truely what the world is trying to say before we try to assert any of our own beliefs as the ultimate truth.
ReplyDeleteAfter all, we should be aware of the many different truths for we aren't going to be sheltered by places like TCIS for long and though the people we meet might not be a Sawi, but they might not exactly be pleasant.
I agree with your statement that we should share varieties of different viewpoints to have clearer picture of our own world view and be able to see beyond our limits. But like the saying "ignorance is bliss," some people might be better off living within their own cosmos of understanding...
ReplyDeleteThose are good ideas, I think it will exciting seeing what lens people in class view the world with. And also look forward to comparing the different worlds we live in.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the fact that we are modern man/woman. From the primitive stone ages, human mankind has developed a long way into what we are presently. As a dynamic and busy developing society, I admit that it is difficult for us to contemplate what is outside the sphere of our physical existence. Each day, our energy is demanded by everyday problems, trivial matters, or issues that we think are important but might actually not. Our busy demanding lives dominate our time and focus, leaving no room for God to fill in the gaps of our lives. As you said, in order to see beyond the limits of human nature and our stone-age cosmos, and like the Sawi, we need to search for the ultimate truth that God can show us. He can deliver us to single truth. I am looking forward to reading Peace Child =D
ReplyDeleteI agree with you when you mentioned that "there is not one standard lens through which we can see the world" and I believe this is why reading and discussing a book (what we are doing right now) is so meaningful and awesome. We are in same school, same grade, and same country; however we all have different thoughts and ideas in our minds. Therefore when we share our thoughts during the discussion, we learn new points of view to look at things around us. I am looking forward to growing my passion and purpose for learning while I listen and comment on various types of analysis. It is interesting and so cool how God made us this way; we think and look all different but when we go back deep down to the root of our beginning, we were all made by the hands of God. Everything that He has made is beatiful, like the bible verse at the top of the blog.
ReplyDeleteI agree that we, as "developed" people, sometimes think that we're somehow higher in intellect and the ways of life than those like the Sawi. It is true that we feel like we have the whole world figured out. Yet, I feel that the more technologically advanced we become, the more nearer we come to destroying ourselves. Yes, the Sawis do have weapons and use them. Look at the weapons we have, though. Children have access to guns and countries have mounds of nuclear missiles waiting to be launched. People like the Sawi have found ways to live without having to use these sorts of things. I don't agree with how they live, especially the cannibalism and the head-hunting, but at least they're not out to conquer the whole world. Or maybe they are. Maybe in their own mindset, making alliances and destorying neighboring villages is their way of conquering the world. In the end, maybe all people are just innately made to want to rule the world, and in that sense, we will all contribute to our own desctruction. In the end, though, once we're all through destroying ourselves, will it matter how different we were from the Sawis? I don't know. I really don't.
ReplyDeleteIsn't it interesting how every person can get so wrapped up in their own little "bubble"? How is it that we find so much pleasure in ourselves, that we forget, or more so dismiss, the truly important things in life? Faith, family, friends...living and enjoying for a purpose. And yet, we continue to find more and more self-absorbed people in this world. Truth is an interesting topic, but a good one. I think that through the discussions we have had and will continue to have in class, every one of us will begin to understand a little more about where we stand...about the lens through which we look at life.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy your idea that we live within our own little cosmos with our own subjective truths, when in reality, we should be aware that there is an objective truth that we must discover by developing ourselves. But then the question that gets raised in my mind is how do we attempt to understand other perspectives and other world views if we, as individuals, believe that there is a single truth? Because if objective truth exists, then doesn't that mean there are "true" morals, not morals based on society and culture? And then it seems contradictory to consider things as "right" or "wrong" when we are in the process of trying to look outside our own little universe. How do we know if we are just arrogantly solidifying our own little cosmos or if we are refusing to lose sight of a single truth? It seems to be a hard balance.
ReplyDelete"As we explored in Flannery O’Connor’s works, we live in a time when nihilism and humanism rule, and the rejection of objective truth is the norm. In other words, there is not one "standard" lens through which we can see the world. To believe in the metaphysical or to have a belief system through which we live our lives is seen as a crutch for the weak."
ReplyDeleteI believe that because we are living in an evil world of nihilism and humanism, we are all in need of that "crutch." I actually consider myself weak, helpless, and hopeless without that belief system of something greater and outside what is tangible; Christianity is, to me, not merely a belief system according to which I live my life but a deep profound relationship with the one and only God of the Universe and my Creator. Although it proves difficult at times, no, most times, to be and remain faithful, I know that whether I like the idea or not, whether I believe it to be true or not, the objective truth does not change; there is one truth in this world. The question is whether we accept it or not.
"We claim to be advanced"
ReplyDelete"Modernized" individuals like ourselves are supposedly 'advanced' and react to the Sawi people's customs shockingly. Whether we hold the same morals and values as the Sawi people or not, ultimately we are all the same human beings. In a way we are more similar to the Sawi people than we think, whether we like to admit it or not. We are pretentious individuals who label ourselves to appear significant. Because we are so caught up in our own lives,self-absorbed, we cannot even grasp the true God, unfathomable. It'd be interesting to see where various people are coming from with their perspectives.
The ideas that you have portrayed in the posting seem to have deep insights on the book that we are now analyzing. You have portrayed the relevence of the supernatural and touched the very tip of a Grand-Masterplanner's story. I believe that the comments you made comparing the piece of literature with Flannery O'connor gives a clear view on where we are going to be heading.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your post to an extent in which that the supernatural exsist, but I believe that culture has a big impact in religion. Just as the bible is interpreted differently now compares to two-thousand years ago, the time and culture has a great impact on faith.The supernatural may remain the same, but our way of viewing the supernatural is different. Your views were convincing and I believe that the idea of the equality in faith is very intersting. I agree with the point that faith can be similar to the modern society and the Sawi culture. But just like Japan, just because a culture is easy to aproach doesn't mean that the people are willing to accept.
I am very interested in where your ideas are flowing to.I look forward to reading your next posting
I agree that many times people fail to understand the metaphysical opportunities that are given to them. I also agree that there is not "standard lens" in which we should percieve the world and faith. So when talking about the "Peace Child" I believe that each and everyone should share their own interesting viewpoints through their own unique perspectives. This will enhance our understanding of the world and the metaphysical opportunities. Therefore, rather than having a more "open minded" viewpoint, a narrow minded perspectives of each and everyone, I believe, can enhance our faith and belief.
ReplyDeleteWe live in a world where not everything can be based on our personal points of views, therefore we have to learn how to think critically. I agree with your point that there is no one "standard" lens which we can see the world through. This blog seems to value religion the religious aspects of literature a lot. From your blog I am able to refer to how the Christians behave in their lives, and that religion as a central belief can be the epitome of your life.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your statements about how our world is so technologically based now and also the development of our philosophical ideas. That we need to open our minds to new ideas and different view points. It helped a lot that you tied O'Connor to help us understand and get a deeper meaning of it. I'm excited to get started on this journey and becoming a more open minded thinker.
ReplyDeleteI have also thought that increase in knowledge or development of technologies do not lead us directly into our deeper understanding of metaphysical world because people still commit crimes knowing that their actions are against the laws. We sometimes even seem to abuse the technological developments in order to satisfy our desire. And I do agree with you on this statement, "To believe in the metaphysical or to have a belief system through which we live our lives is seen as a crutch for the weak," because I have always thought so too. I thought one would rely on religion because one is not strong enough. Through this class, I hope I find the true meaning of faith and religion because I know I haven't found it yet, and I'm at least open to diverse perspectives!
ReplyDeleteIt is true that we are living in a world where nihilism and humanism rule. We are so caught up with keeping up with the worldly standards and meeting the expectations of the world that, often, we forget to express ourselves. I believe we need to remember that just as various colors mix to make one special solid color, our different ideas and thoughts combine to create a better solid idea. Reading your blog led me to also ponder what or who makes the standard in the world we are living in. It will be interesting to learn about what God has for us through this unit. I will not forget to learn with passion and purpose you mentioned about in your post.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that we should be critical thinkers and think from different perspectives. It is hard to understand why any culture would encourage treachery and cannibalism, even if they are primitive. Many people have little things in life that they complain about but do not know the things that happen outside of their own world. With the internet and TV news I knew that there are still primitive people in the world but did not know that they have the beliefs they do such as cannibalism and treachery.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that we are living in a world where the rejection of objective truth is norm. Even when we're surrounded by a Christian community, we find ourselves hard to get out of our own world with our own beliefs. As we read this book and make discussions, we will all have different perspectives, values, and opinions of "religion." However, breaking those different backgrounds, I hope that through the discussions, we could all come to the point where we discover His eternal truth.
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ReplyDeleteAs I read the ‘peace child’, it becomes apparent that these indigenous tribes are unique with distinctive point of views. Even though we, as ‘educated people’ have different background and culture to the Sawi people, I come across that there are in fact many similarities as we both keep distinct cosmos to ourselves but often fail to understand the metaphysical meanings that exist somewhere beyond that humans are destined to search for. However people are enclosed with their selfish thoughts and this is a human nature that prevents humans reaching the ‘beauty of God’s objective truth’. I don’t agree with the practices of cannibalism and head-hunting but I am struck with realization that we shouldn’t be judging what other people regard about their own views of world because we all have different perspectives and opinions. Throughout the class, I want to explore how god is giving evangelization to the Sawi people and how He is communicating to lead them to discover his message: the ultimate spiritual truths. I am looking forward to your next posting.
ReplyDeleteAlready, after reading only several chapters of the Peace Child, I have come to a realization that we, as people of today's modern society, are not really so advanced and sophisticated as we may think. Sure we live in a world where technology is ubiquitous; we see fast-moving vehicles that can travel on land, water, air, and even space. We have devices that let us socialize with those who are millions of miles away. We live in a “modern” society. However, this advancement of technology is not a true advancement. As philosopher George Santayana once stated, “The spirit's foe in man has not been simplicity, but sophistication.” Our so-called sophistication has led to retrogression in our spiritual beliefs – our beliefs of the metaphysical. Mankind is (and has been ever since the emergence of the emphasis on science and technology) so caught up in methodical procedures and logic that many times it can forget that life will not be complete without some form of faith. Thus, quite ironically, our present society is not so different from the stone-age society of the Sawi.
ReplyDeleteI hope that through this unit, I will be able to find the absolute, “objective truth” as I continue on my journey to truly find religion and faith in my life.
I'm really excited about this unit because we are moving on to something other than short stories. Short stories are great but after reading many short stories, we end up forgetting what we learned. "learn with passion and purpose, allowing the objective truth to emerge through our discussion and sharing of our different perspectives and opinions." I hope in this unit we will be able to dig deeper into ourselves by observing the Sawi people.
ReplyDelete"There is not one "standard" lens through which we can see the world." Mr. Radar, you are so right about this sentence, because it is true that everybody in this world has different perspectives in which they look at, think about, and take action in. Even though I don't really pay attention during class sometimes, I can already tell that not only from this post of yours, but even through class periods that you are trying to teach us how to stand on our own feet in the future.
ReplyDelete"Grasp the deeper spiritual truths that God has planted within every single one of us, leading us to discover the beauty of God’s objective truth." This is the last part of your post and it really caught my attention, because if it is true, it means that I have a solid future, of whether it is good or bad. In addition, it means that everything happens for a reason and maybe the reason why I chose to be in the IB English SL class was to learn more about the world's religious beliefs by simply discussing about the books we read, for example like the peace child.
Even though God makes everything happen for a reason, I will not be able to achieve what I want, unless, "I learn with passion and purpose."
I agree that, in the midst of humanism and nihilism, it is impossible to see the truth about the existence of metaphysical being that created the universe. In addition, it is also impossible to understand a purpose of life while wandering in nihilism. You mentioned that ‘there is not one ‘standard’ lens through which we can see the world,’ and I truly believe that you are right. The world we live in today is so diverse and complicated that it became an ocean of subjectivity. However, I think that because everyone was created in God’s image, there are many traits we all have in common. Hence, as you said, if we become humble and passionate to learn the truth, only then will we see the ultimate truth.
ReplyDeleteAs we acquire more knowledge and advantages from the modern society, we begin not to appreciate the past we have gone through. This evidently proves your point of how ‘rejection of objective truth is the norm’ is exhibited in our daily lives. In my opinion, it is essential to compel the recollections that were buried and make connections to explore in search of the truth, incorporating the ideas of the metaphysical through different perspectives that would be presented as we read this book.
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