Culture Jam

“Psycho-rage” and “postmodern cynicism” are modern concepts that reveal so much about our current societal health. Feelings of hopelessness, despair, confusion, anger, skepticism and outrage overwhelm and paralyze many of those who’ve become aware of the “carnival of corporate America.” Not only does this most likely relate to the chronic stress which fuels so many of the common health conditions in this country, it presents a huge obstacle for change. After all, how can things get done if people won’t get off their couches?
People must recognize and channel their rage in a healthy, productive, socially responsible ways. Lasn presents the idea of creating a new vision of self-reliance in which citizens stand up for themselves in the face of corporate schemes, even in the smallest of ways. Creating choices for ourselves, such as where our money will be housed, what we eat, what sorts of products we buy and even deciding what products we actually need are possible first steps. For me, framing such acts as self-reliant hilights why so many people do not view corporate happenings in the way this class idealizes. We aren’t self-reliant... it’s just simpler to let someone else tell us what we need, why we need it and where we can get it in the cheapest way! How does the image of the self-reliant, media-conscious American find its way into the mainstream?
Surely, consumption must be “uncooled.” Simplifying our lives, downshifting, making quiet time to reflect on our choices, our schedules, our society and our realities is surely necessary. The key here is to get what we need from these quieter times and get ourselves back in motion, and this time in a more productive and socially responsible direction.
The “Media Carta” reform must happen. The voice of the media must reflect the opinions of diverse crowds of Americans and their dissatisfaction with the current function of the system. Surely, if all these opinions were broadcast we would think more about the way our food system, school system, government, etc work... we’d realize that more often than not we are being wronged.
I believe that social networking is the way to get these messages heard and to inspire the rebellion. The fire has to be lit throughout all demographics so that when change does become a reality, we are all a part of it and the solutions are sustainable.

I’m reminded of a heartening and inspiring parade/demonstration I attended once, and the lines that continue to echo through me and raise goosebumps: “Ain’t no power like the power of people, cause the power of people don’t stop.”