Well there are literally only hours left before the next president of the United States is elected (or selected...please forgive my sarcasm). Of course I am anxious and a little apprehensive because any way this election goes, chaos can be started. I am a lot worried about the less educated Americans that exist in our society, the ones that don't believe that government was created for the people by the people. The ones that vote (and haven't voted in years) and then on Tuesday, November 4th are completely disappointed about the outcome of the election. Let's be completely honest here, the nation is looking for a change in government but differs on who can actually bring about that change. As two very viable candidates compete for office my major concern is not only who wins but how the nation will react to who wins.
I was serious in class the other day when I stated that I will not be leaving my dorm on Wednesday, and I have good reason not to want to. Though America has seen some change and progress in regards to race relations, the prejudices in our society are still very obvious though they might not be blatantly expressed. Yes, if you haven't figured it out by now I am referring to the race riots and other dubious acts our country enjoys so much. Call me cynical, call me scary but I am not leaving campus, let alone my dorm until the shock has subsided and business can go about as usual.
Response By Destinee Moore
Assuming that the claim of this argument is that this years election will bring about chaos regardless of which candidate is elected. This chaos is listed as riots that will occur after the winner is announced. This seems to be a fallacious argument. Its make a hasty generalization that citizens will engage in riots based on either presidential candidate being elected. This conclusion is based on insufficient evidence because the argument does not list detailed proof of the matter. Also the argument is guilty of false analogy because it is merely descriptive and doesn't offer proof that links the assumed riots to the election of either candidate. The argument would be more effective if it offered more detailed information of past situations that are similar.
7 comments:
I would just like to say that this blog is hilarious. LOL. All week long I have been hearing radio stations and televison stations talk about the possible public reaction to who might win and it is hilarious to say the least. One web blog had the nerve to say that police presence needs to be heightened no matter who wins because the difference between a black riot and a black celebration does not exist. Lol. In response to this blog, I think it is a bit farfetched to stay in your room because someone can easily riot in your dorm just as easily as they can on the street if you really think about it. However, I believe that no matter who wins or loses, someones supporters are going to be upset. Whether or not I think riots will break out, I dont really know but I am slightly worried as well.
R. tuzo
I completely agreed with Christina that regardless of the outcome of this election, chaos will occur. I too am a bit worried to see how our nation will handle the change in the White house. When I say change I am not referring to any one candidate I am specifically referring to the literal change government politics. Specifically, the issue of race is the major concern of most Americans. Either way race is going to play a major factor in people's reactions and responses. Every time I think about Obama's potential presidency I cannot help but the think about JFK. This reactions and responses after this election will be very interesting to note.
- A. Pruitt
The 2008 presidential election is one that will go down in the history books considering the candidates. If Barack Obama wins, it will be something that this country will remember forever. I have heard the many threats towards Sen. Obama about an assassination and many killings of people existing in the black race, and hearing that makes me mad.
I know that prejudice still exists, but I did not know it was to the point where people would want to kill somebody because of their race. I am not to much scared about my safety after the election because if there are riots, I will probably not be in that social setting to experience it. However, I think on Wednesday, if Barack Obama wins the world will see a different America.
Though I will most likely leave my campus on and the day after Election Day, I do agree with Christina's concern for the reaction to presidential election on Tuesday. Political ignorance and anger is a dangerous combination, especially when an election is inflated with extreme anticiaption. Previous race riots are a testament to the worst of race relations in America. This election could (hopefully and probably NOT) be another example of such.
I’m not quite sure what to expect come Wednesday morning. I believe I know who the qualified candidate is, but if he’s not chosen, then what will happen? I can understand where Christina’s fear is coming from, ignorance is a scary thought, but I can’t let fear lead my life. For those who have not voted in-who know how many years- and are taking a stand to vote, they will be disappointed if their choice candidate does not win. But people must understand that politics is far from fair. Campaign writers use charged words such as “your vote counts,” when in reality our vote is a part of the popular vote, and the Electoral College really has control. Winning the popularity vote, does not mean automatically winning the election! I feel that it is an even scarier thought knowing that you have done all you could possibly do to support a candidate, and still not have control. But, that’s the political process that this nation has chosen to adhere to, and as citizens, we can are given the choice to vote or not.
Christina also mentioned that America has made some regards in race relations, but I feel that we still have a lot of work to do. When it comes to the safety of the Democratic presidential candidate, I worry that people will try to endanger him, just because of the color of his skin. But, just as Audre Lorde said, it is the job of the oppressed to inform/educate the oppressor of their unjust ways. And America still has a long way to come. Now, come Wednesday morning, I’ll be praying!
I completely agree with you Christina. Either way the election turns out, there will be riots upon riots. African-Americans will riot if Obama does not win, and Republicans will protest and try to assassinate him if he does. I was suprised this morning to read online the desparate plots of the republicans trying to persuade democratic, young, and african-american voters to stay away from the polls using tactics such as anonymous pamphlets and phonecalls. Hopefully the country wil peacefully deal with whomever is chosen to be our next president. (OBAMA 08!!!)
-Jessica Gibbs
It goes without saying that there are pros and cons to the election tomorrow. However, the generalization that the "less educated" will be the source of the riot is a bit far fetched. There will be educated people that will riot and protest because educated people organize in such a way that brings attention to an issue to get results. The culture of fear that is pervasive in our society has been one that America has grown with over the past 200 years. What will happen is that a candidate will win and the country, whether you like it or not, will have to move forward to combat the issues of the failing economy, housing crisis, energy costs and the threat of another war.
Why would you stay in your dorm? It is our constitutional right to protest and gather to show our dislike for certain things in our society. Futher, it bothers me even more that race, gender and class have become the main issues to decide this presidential election. Riot, if one may, the fact is that we must move forward together and both Obama and McCain will have to bring both sides together. No one is going to riot, they will be mad, cry and fuss, but do nothing as they have on other issues of seeming importance.
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