****THE LAST POST*** (Module summary questionnaire)

I am female, 41 (in body but not mind!!) and am studying for a joint degree in philosophy and sociology.

'Being Bad' relates in some ways to a couple of sociology modules which look at crime in society, and also to the philosophy module using critical reason (the morals/ethics part in particular).

I have found the module, for the most part to be of an appropriate level. The list of topics was appropriate but I would like to have seen more about such things as bullying and alcohol related bad behaviour, as these are so prevalent in society that it seems remiss not to look at them in more detail.

The classes worked fairly well, apart from the issue of people talking in lectures, which did carry on even after warnings were issued. I guess some people just don't care about the impact they have on others! I found the module team generally engaging and helpful, and in the main delivered very interesting and informative lectures. I think more small group discussions could help to encourage the more shy students to have an input.

I found the interdisciplinary approach interesting and although at first I balked at having to produce a creative writing piece, (something I haven't done for many years, unless you count songwriting), I am pleased with what I finally produced and am glad I was encouraged by the module to explore this aspect of written work.

I have not yet registered my modules for level two, but it is highly likely that I will be taking 'It Shouldn't Be Allowed', timetable permitting. I would recommend 'Being Bad' to a friend.

I have found the weblogs a bit of a struggle, being as I am a mature student to whom the concept of airing one's views to the world in general through cyber space is a bit of a scary one! Also, I find that 'screen staring' for any length of time can be uncomfortable for me with my ageing eyesight. However, I realise that this is the way of the world these days, and am doing my best to get to grips with it more!

I found myself, once I had started to write my short story, wishing for a longer word count, as I had to do some serious cutting. Despite my initial reservations about the format, once I got started it began to pour out of me and I could have gone on for pages and pages. I suppose that's how many writers work - perhaps I'm studying the wrong subject? :- I have certainly learned many things from this module, not least that I have creative abilities which I though had left me over twenty years ago. I have also learned that people have many and varied ideas about what counts as bad behaviour, whether or not they impact on the lives of others.

I found the first few weblog help sessions very useful as I feel I would have been 'flapping about in the dark'. Similarly, the creative writing workshop helped me to develop this skill in order to write my second assignment. I can't think of any parts which I consider a waste of time, it has all been very much a valuable learning process for me!!

DRUGS - Are they all as bad as they're made out to be?

Having just completed my creative writing piece on the subject of drugs, I was thinking back to the lecture on the subject and remembering some of the debates which took place. A recent documentary was mentioned in which scientific research had shown that alcohol was more harmful than certain Class A drugs, including MDMA/ecstasy. Why, then, is this substance still classified in this way, when alcohol is freely available within the age limits of the law?

Could it be that, because alcohol carries tax revenue, the Government will continue to ignore this research? But what if MDMA and other illegal drugs were decriminalised, even made legal? They could be regulated and taxed the same way alcohol and tobacco are, with revenue used to fund health care of those who become ill from overuse (like in the case of those who are ill through drinking and smoking tobacco). Many users may even refrain from using them any more because it would no longer be an act of rebellion or a taboo, which for some would take away the attraction ! In addition, much of the crime and corruption associated with the illegal drug industry would likely disappear.

But of course this is too sensible a solution for any Government in this country to see, either that or they prefer to keep control over us in this as in so many other ways!

There are many web pages with various accounts of the research described above, here are just a few of them:-

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/connected/main.jhtml?xml=/connected/2007/03/23/nalcohol123.xml

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/health/article1555582.ece

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6474053.stm

COMMENT ON OLI'S BLOG OF 18TH APRIL 2008

Oli

I heartily agree with you that some people are able to fulfil their potential while using illegal drugs, it all depends on that persons physical and mental constitution. I certainly have many friends and aquaintances who hold down high paid careers and live full and active lives while at the same time using varying amounts of illegal drugs.

Of course not everyone is able to do this, but surley it is their choice to put certain substances into their own bodies? To legislate over what people can and can't put into their own bodies is, I feel, an infingement of human rights. Yes, there have to be rules covering such things as driving under the influence of drugs, as in the case of alcohol. But I really do feel that if people want to take drugs then it is their choice, and if they ruin their lives because of it then that is their choice too!!

Songbird
24 April 2008 17:36

http://olibeingbad.blogspot.com/

BODY MODIFICATION - MORE THAN JUST TATTOOS AND PIERCINGS!!

I had assumed that anything which would be classed as body modification would be a choice made by the individual. But in the lecture on this subject, circumcision was mentioned, of which the male variety can be consenting, but is not always. The female variety, which is also called by the much more descriptive name of female genital mutilation (FGM), is usually performed on very young girls and therefore not consenting. This practice is often thought of as being a religious one. In fact it is more usually a way for those groups practising it to control womens' sexuality.

A few years ago I read a book, Desert Flower, by model Waris Dirie. In it she tells of her own horrific experience of FGM as a child, and how it affected her life. It is a moving and inspiring story, which I would recommend to anyone. Waris eventually set up a charitable foundation to help other victims of this terrible practise and to raise awareness of the issue.

http://www.waris-dirie-foundation.com/web/e_index.htm

http://www.religioustolerance.org/fem_cirm.htm This website gives more detail about the social rather than religious basis for FGM

http://http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/6287926.stm Here Waris describes her ordeal when she was subjected to FGM as a child.

SHOPLIFTING!!!

I was thinking back to the lecture where we talked about shoplifting, and it prompted a couple of relevant memories to spring to mind. As far as I can remember I have had two experiences involving this activity in my lifetime.

The first was when I was about 15 and was coerced, under heavy peer pressure/mild bullying, and against my better judgment (I was a bit of a 'Goody-Goody' back then!). The item taken was a pot of cheap hair gel, which was for the ringleader who had pressured me. While I was carrying out the theft all I could think was "Oh my god, if I get caught I'm in for it, especially at home!". I was absolutely terrified as I knew what a temper my Dad had. As soon as I had left the shop and handed over the gel I ran home and shut myself in my room, shaking. After that I made a point of trying not to be in the company of that particular group of girls again. I swore to myself I would never let anyone pressure me like that again.

The second occasion was a few years ago and was actually completely accidental. Having filled my trolley in Asda with a weeks worth of family groceries, I went through the checkout as normal. However, when I came to load the shopping into my car I discovered that I had left a tray of beer (for my husband) in the rack under the trolley, so it had not been paid for. I thought for a moment what I should do - take it back in and pay or load up and go! It began raining, my back was aching and I had a headache, and it was getting close to 'school run' time. I decided to load up and go, figuring that if the Asda staff didn't notice the mistake then why should I bother to point it out? It seems I wasn't such a 'Goody-Goody' any more, although I wouldn't shoplift intentionally.

Does this make me as bad as someone who deliberately steals from shops? Or just a little blip on an otherwise honest character? From some of the views expressed in the lecture it would seem that this is a matter of opinion. I cerainly won't lie awake at night worrying about it though!

The following is a link to a very interesting article on research into the reasons why people shoplift. It also tells of some ingenious methods people use, including dressing as a Nun!!
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/4477596.stm

COMMENT ON LINDA'S BLOG OF 2ND APRIL 2008

Hi there Linda



Sorry to hear of your bad experience of infidelity at the hands of your ex. I've not been in that position but can imagine it was pretty rough.



I did, however, find myself in the position of adulterer about 20 years ago. I was 22 and had been married for 2 years. Although happily at first, my husband began to treat me differently, as if he thought he no longer needed to bother now I was 'his'. He stopped treating me with respect and spoke to me as though I were a naughty child. I was expected to stay home and cook, clean etc, while he went out trainspotting:-/Even our bedroom activities had ceased to be, because he 'couldn't be bothered!'. So when a nice man began to pay me some attention I naturally fell for his charms.



To cut to the chase, (pun intended LOL), I had an affair with him, eventually left my husband, and my 'bit on the side' is now my husband. We have been together for 18 years and have 2 teenage sons! Because I never had children with the first one it wasn't a complicated breakup, but I have divorced friends who still have wrangles over the children, so realise how difficult it can be.



However, my experience has taught me that sometimes and affair is the right thing if it results in a better life with someone who doesn't want to 'keep me down'. It certainly did for me!!

Songbird
15 April 2008 12:46
http://formybeingbad.blogspot.com/

INFIDELITY/ADULTERY

Even though the lecture on this subject was some weeks ago, it has been brought to mind again, having recently handed in the first assignment for this module. I chose to write the essay on whether adultery fulfills needs that marriage cannot.

It occured to me that Church/religious marriage ceremonies often include parts in which the bride and groom promise that they will keep themselves for their spouse, forsaking all others. Having twice been married in registry office, i.e. civil, ceremonies, I don't remember anything of that kind being included. (Although it could be include if the couple so wished, along with any other personal vows they might want to include).

The following are links to pages which show the wording used in the two different types of marriage ceremony:-

http://www.weddingclipart.com/guide/wedding-vows/Christian-Wedding-Vows.html

http://www.weddingguideuk.com/articles/legal/englandwales.asp

This caused me to wonder whether someone married in a civil ceremony might use this as an excuse for having an extra-marital affair. Would they be able to claim that they were not doing anything wrong, as they had not actually broken any marriage vows? I suppose it would depend on the actual relationship and the couples expectations of eachother.

Although marriage in our Western culture is generally expected to be monogamous, it would seem from looking into the subject that there is a lot of adultery about. It surprised me to learn, from reading the lecture handouts, that there are many actual websites dedicated to helping people have affairs without being found out. I suppose its the next step after online dating!!

COMMENT ON FLICKS BLOG OF 18TH MARCH 2008

Songbird said...

Dear Flick


While I agree with you about the leading actor - I found him very annoying and his voice whiny and grating - I have to say I thought Chloe Sevigny as Jenny was well worthy of her 'Best Supporting Actress' nomination. Her portrayal of the character seemed to me very heartfelt and genuine. I totally believed her, whereas with some of the other actors it was as though they were just playing and having a laugh.



I think the point of this film, if any, was to perhaps highlight some of the kinds of behaviour and activities of young people at that time and prompt a moral debate about what might be done about the situation.Like you, I didn't feel particularly inspired by the film. However, I did find it interesting to watch from a social commentary point of view!

http://felicitydrive777.blogspot.com/

08 April 2008 13:17

BAD CINEMA

It was interesting to see this film for the first time in 2008, while remembering the furore it generated on its release in 1995. On viewing, it actually seemed quite tame to me. But then thirteen years is a long time in the arts, and what was shocking then may not seem so today! I suppose the most shocking scene for me was when the group of young men beat up a lone guy in the park, prompted by a minor skateboarding clash. But I guess that's just the pacifist in me - I hate violence and am the first to run in the opposite direction at any sign of a fight!!

The other 'bad' elements of the films storyline - unprotected sex, promiscuity, alcohol, drugs, shoplifting etc... - didn't really shock me. These things happen all the time and I think the film was attempting to reflect real life in some way - the lives of certain groups of young people.

I found the leading male character, Telly, vaguely annoying due to the whiny nasal voice of the actor playing him. In fact, if I were one of his young conquests I'm sure I would have preferred his friend Casper. He was certainly better looking and more stylish!

I had a certain empathy for Jennie (pictured), one of Telly's innocent 'victims'. Although there were others, her plight was a continuing thread throughout the film. Some reviewers have said the film has no plot, but Jennie's situation and Telly's continued perpetration of his 'hobby' are a clear and definite storyline, in my opinion.

I think this film should be shown to young people as part of their sex education. It could serve as a warning to them to make sure they practise safe sex, in order to avoid finding themselves in a similar situation. As a parent I would certainly not object to my 14 and 15 year old sons seeing this film, especially if it resulted in them being more 'careful' with their sexual health!!

There are numerous reviews of the film available, here are just a select few:-

http://www.reelviews.net/movies/k/kids.html

http://www.forbisthemighty.com/pages/kids.htm

http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2001/01/30/kids_1995_dvd_review.shtml

CIGARETTES UNDER THE COUNTER

Just heard on the radio news about the Department of Health calling for Government legislation banning cigarettes from being displayed in shops. If such legislation were passed then cigarettes would become an 'under the counter' item, and many cigarette vending machines would also become illegal in certain places. Apparently this is another attempt to prevent children from smoking. Read more about it here.

Surely, as I have opined previously, if children/young people are going to smoke then they will no matter whether they can see the packs on display or not? There are plenty of other places where they get to see smoking taking place - on television, films, in the streets and in many cases in their own homes. In fact it could be said that the more hidden and forbidden something is made, the more attractive it becomes to certain types of young people - another way to rebel and assert their own control over their lives!

If this happens then it could pave the way for calls for all sorts of things to go 'under the counter' - alcohol perhaps, or to take it to extremes, unhealthy foods!! Anything that anyone thinks could have a bad influence in children!

Where will it all end? Will we become a nation of robots being told what to do, eat, drink, think? George Orwell may have been a few years out with 1984, but bit by bit it would seem that things are slowly going that way. Scary!!

SMOKING IN FILMS

I was just listening to a debate on the radio on the subject of smoking in films. It would appear that a campaign has been mounted calling for any film which depicts smoking to be rated 18. Those behind the campaign, (Liverpool City Council in conjunction with the Roy Castle Foundation), believe that young people are influenced in their choice to smoke by seeing it depicted on the big screen. Christine Owens, Director of Tobacco Control at the Roy Castle Foundation, was pitted against Richard Fitzwilliam, a film critic. As you can imagine some rather lively debate ensued. Christine Owens cited research carried out by Nottingham Universtity which, she claimed, showed that young people are more likely to smoke if they see it in films. She also quoted the BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) guidelines, which state that films should be classified 18 if they contain any dangerous practise which could promote harm to individuals. Fair enough, some may think.

But then it was the turn of Richard Fitzwilliam to have his say. He put the point that if this campaign were successful then a whole host of films currently classified 15 would suddenly jump to 18. Even some classic films such as Casablanca and Breakfast at Tiffanys, fantasy adventures like Lord of the Rings (Gandalf smoked a pipe) and even 'childrens' animated films like 101 Dalmations (Cruella De Ville smokes using a long, sleek cigarette holder!) and . He also pointed out that if the campaign were successful then it could open the floodgates for campaigns against all sorts of other activivties in films, eg. alcohol use, drug use, bad driving etc. His main point was that many films reflect the human condition, and if heavier censoring took place then films would end up bland and boring.

Listeners opinions tended to favour his point of view, with many ridiculing the campaign. One caller mentioned about Thunderbirds in the 1970's, where the Traceys would sit around the pool smoking when off duty!!

Well, what do you think? Another example of the 'Nanny State', trying to control our lives as if we are all irresponsible and can't make our own decisions? Or a good idea? Personally, I tend to agree with Fitzwilliam. I think if anyone is going to smoke they will anyway, due to peer pressure amongst other things, whether or not they see it in a film.

If you fancy listening to the whole debate you can do so through http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/vine/, via the listen again feature (Jeremy Vine, 12-2pm, Tuesday 18th March 2008).

Not quite a technophobe, but DAZED AND CONFUSED!!! (and a few words about cyber bullying!)

Don't laugh, but I've only just realised that these blogs are visible to the world in general, and not just my fellow students at Wolves Uni!! As a mature student (I had a reeeeeeeaaaaaaally long gap year LOL!), I sometimes find all this new fangled technological gadgetry a tad confusing. (I only learned what LOL meant a couple of weeks ago, and when a friend emailed me saying I was FAF I was most offended, until he explained!!)

All you youngsters who have grown up with it as second nature are in an enviable position when it comes to doing this sort of thing. As for me, I learned to type, aged 17, using manual typewriters that bit your fingers off given half a chance. Word processing didn't even exist at that point, even electric typewriters were a strange new beast and a single computer occupied a room the size of my house!

You can imagine, then, how the concept of the internet boggled my mind when it first came about. Such an amazing resource with untold uses, uniting users worldwide - the INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY!!. However, there have been many uses of this resource which are thought of by many as wrong and immoral. Such things as cyber bullying, child porn/paedophilia, posting of pictures and film clips featuring people in, shall we say, compromising positions, without consent of those involved.

Which brings me to why I have set up this blog. It forms part of the assessment for a first year Philosophy module - Being Bad - which investigates various forms of behaviour which are generally deemed to be immoral, dangerous, unhealthy, unreasonable etc. Even though the examples mentioned above are not directly tackled in any of the module lectures, I think they are worth mentioning. In particular, cyber bullying strikes a chord within me, as I was bullied physically as a child. It is no real surprise to find that this concept has been transported into cyberspace, although it is upsetting to think that those who may be suffering physically at the hands of bullies cannot even escape them in the comfort of their own homes.

If anything, this form of bullying is even more cowardly than physical bullying. Worryingly, it would appear that this is a widespread phenomenon. There are, however, many sites offering help to victims. http://yp.direct.gov.uk/cyberbullying/?%25253Fitem=07102007news is the official government site.

Well, I think I'm beginning to get the hang of this a bit now, although I do have to refer to the written instructions every time to post pictures and links. Like I said, be patient with me, I may be older than most of my fellow students but I'm worth waiting for!!! ;-)

Field Trip

My suggestion for a module field trip is to go to a Drop Beats Not Bombs rave event, possibly at the Custard Factory in Birmingham, where we can interview people about their experiences of the scene and some of its related aspects, which may be thought of by some as BAD. These could be things such as use of illegal substances, binge drinking and promiscuous sexual behaviour. Drop Beats Not Bombs is a charitable organisation, raising awareness of the plight of millions of innocent civilians, children and babies included, who are being killed and maimed by the use of depleted uranium weapons in needless wars (definately BAD things, the worst of all in my opinion!!), in places like Iraq, Afghanistan etc. http://www.dropbeatsnotbombs.co.uk/index.php