Notebook Entries - British Literature
5-12-16: Lumen Christi
What would you say Lumen Christi High School did very well in your experience? What would you suggest as need improvements? Explain.
5-11-16: August 2012
If you could go back in time and had five minutes to talk to yourself the day before you started your freshman year, what would you say? Explain.
5-10-16: Change
In what ways, if any, is it okay to change who you are for another person? In what ways it is not okay? Is it dishonest to try to present yourself in a way not fully representative of who you are? Explain.
5-9-16: Lawsuits
What do you think of injury lawsuits that lead to massive payouts? Is this the way the legal system should work? Is there a better alternative? Explain.
5-4-16: Friends and Relationships
How important is it that the person you date/marry gets along with your friends? Should a romantic relationship take precedence over a friendship in some ways when it comes to time/attention? Vice versa?
4-28-16: Rewards
Is there anything wrong with using tangible rewards to generate action in people? Should parents/schools use rewards to motivate young people? Is there something less noble about achieving something solely for the sake of a reward? Explain.
4-27-16: Relationship Traits
In terms of a potential future spouse, list the following traits in order from most important to least important:
Personality
Sense of humor
Morals
Family
History
Level of education
Finances
Religion
Goals/Motivation
Sense of adventure
Confident
In touch with emotions
Humble
Responsible
Looks
Honesty
Is it vain to take into account things like looks, level of education, or finances when considering a potential spouse? Would you be willing to sacrifice certain good traits if someone was overwhelmingly gifted in the trait(s) you value most? Is this vain? Explain.
4-26-16: Personal Needs
Is there ever a time when it is justifiable to put yourself or your own needs in front of the needs of others? Explain.
4-25-16: Loan Ethics
Is it unethical for lenders to loan money to people who will most likely not be able to pay it back? Do lenders have the right to charge interest for the use of their money? Is it fair for the government to legally prevent a person from taking out a loan if said person can find a willing lender? Explain.
4-22-16: Change/Representation
In terms of personal relationships, is it okay to change/embellish who you are for another person? In what ways it is not okay? Is it dishonest to try to present yourself in an overly positive manner if it is not fully representative of who you are? Is “putting your best foot forward” in a job interview similar to lying? Explain.
4-21-16: Law
If the law were immediately non-existent, how bad do you think things would get in society? Is the law the only thing keeping people accountable or do you think certain sections of society would be relatively unaffected by its removal? What besides consequences are some of the motivating factors for why people behave the ways they do? Explain?
4-20-16: Stereotypes
Why do racist, ageist, sexist, classist stereotypes exist? Is it wrong to consider stereotypes when making judgments about people? At what point does stereotypical thinking become dangerous? Will people naturally make stereotypes or are they driven by some underlying, learned value? Explain.
4-15-16: Submission
The Bible uses the word “submit” when describing the relationship between a husband and a wife. What does this concept of submission to one’s spouse mean to you? Does the way this submission plays out differ between husbands and wives or is it the same? If a husband and a wife outright disagree on something incredibly important, what should they do?
NOTEBOOK FIVE ABOVE THIS POINT
4-13-16: Arranged Marriage
If your parents were to arrange your marriage, do you think they would do a good job? How do you think their selection would differ from your own? What traits might they consider more important than you would? Less important? Can you see any benefit at all to an arranged marriage system? Explain.
4-11-16: Parental Consent?
What say, if any, should your parents/family have in who you date/marry? Are there any reasons it would be wise to take their opinions into account and is it possible to do so while remaining entirely true to your heart? Explain.
3-29-16: Parents and Gifts
How should parents of wealth handle the giving of gifts to their children? After working hard to achieve their place in life, is there anything wrong with parents being overly giving with their children? Should parents hold back in any way for the sake of their child’s development? Explain.
3-23-16: Marriage and Children
To what degree should parents who are experiencing relationship issues attempt to hide those issues from their children? Is lying to children or keeping information from them about the health of their relationship okay? Should parents always try to give off the impression that their relationship is fine or should they be totally honest with their children about relationship struggles? Explain.
3-22-16: Change
What is the appropriate response for a husband or wife if their spouse’s appearance, behavior, philosophies, or ambitions change drastically during the course of a marriage? Is it ever okay to ask a spouse to change who they are or give up something they enjoy? Explain.
3-21-16: Financial Relationships
Should the way you feel about money or managing your personal finances at all play a role in who you marry? Is love somehow cheapened when discussions of money come into play in regards to marriage or long term relationships? Is considering the financial status of someone you are considering dating always shallow? Explain.
3-17-16: Truth and Marriage
Is it ever okay for husbands and wives to keep secrets from one another? Is it okay to keep a spouse in the dark about something you’ve done, are doing, or will do, even if the thing isn’t wrong? Does being married to someone mean being completely honest with that person all the time? Explain.
3-16-15: Marriage
Do you think marriage is overly romanticized in our culture? Is it okay for some people to claim marriage is a goal they want to achieve? Is it wrong for someone to be depressed or sad by the fact they are not married? Explain.
3-15-16: Time and Money
Would you be willing to sacrifice years of your life for incredible amounts of money? Is it better to live a short period of time to the fullest or a long period of time only somewhat fulfilled? Is wasting the time you’re given a sin? Explain.
3-14-16: Great Commission
How should Christians balance the commands of The Great Commission with the ideas of political correctness and having respect for other religions? Should Christians even be concerned with such things considering the beliefs about salvation which Christians adhere to? Explain.
3-11-2016: Compromise
Is there really such a thing as compromise when it comes to politics? Will there always be two competing parties, with two differing agendas, who are always at odds with one another? When two groups of differing values collide, must one group always win and the other lose? Is this the most effective way of governing a society? Explain.
3-10-16: Greatest Fears
Rank the following fears. Which fear in the left column ranked highest on your list? What is it about this fear that makes you fear it so much?
Fear of:
Death (own) Closed Spaces
Death (loved one) Heights
Failure Spiders
Being Alone Flying
Rejection Snakes
Public Speaking
Commitment
Public embarrassment
Sickness/illness
3-9-16: Cultural Values
Should a country/institution alter its standard procedures to cater to the needs of other cultures and their values? If so, to what extent? Should people visiting other cultures alter their standard procedures to adhere to the values of another culture? If so, to what extent? Explain.
3-8-16: Empire
In what ways can the concept of an “empire” benefit society? In what ways can it hurt it? Is the idea of extending an empire inherently evil? Has the concept of empire building hurt or helped our world overall? Explain.
3-7-16: Human Rights
How humane should a society be to its prisoners? Which rights, if any, do citizens forfeit upon arrest/conviction/imprisonment? Must we consider the rights of people who are dangerous to society at all? Can we eliminate rights for the sake of the protection of the country? Explain.
2-29-16: Growing Up
In terms of behavior, do you feel like young people are expected to mature too quickly? Is too much pressure placed on people at too young of an age? Is the pressure justified? Explain your response.
2–26-16: Ethical Standards
When is it okay for a person to question the moral/ethical standards of another person? Since everyone is raised differently, is it ever fair to try to impose moral standards onto another person? Should people who believe they are in the right on a moral issue even care how those who they believe are in the wrong feel about their actions? Explain.
2-23-16: Penance
Suppose someone commits a great crime/sin and later feels sorry about it. Is it necessary for that person to “pay a debt” before he/she can be completely forgiven for the action? Why or why not? Do society’s views on this subject differ from Christian views? Explain.
Penance: After you confess your sins, the priest gives you a penance to perform. A penance may be to do something nice for your enemy every day for a week. It may be to visit a nursing home or hospital one day a week for a month. It may be to donate time to a soup kitchen or clothing bank. It may involve any one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy. Or it may be a set of prayers, such as saying the Our Father or the Hail Mary, a certain number of times. Whatever the penance, it’s merely a token, because Catholics believe that the sacrifice of Christ on the cross is what made atonement for our sins. Your penance is for your benefit — to remind you that God comes first and you come last.
2-22-16: Work of Art
In your opinion, what does it take for something to be classified as a work of art? Are works of art from today as impressive as those from the past? Is an “artist” still a viable profession to pursue, or is art something people should consider more of an on the side hobby today? Explain.
2-18-16: Art
How important do you consider works of art to the development and betterment of society? Do you believe works of art are given the attention or value they deserve in today’s society? Do you think people in ages past valued art more than society today does? Explain.
2-17-16: Sensation
“The great object of life is sensation — to feel that we exist — even in pain.”
— Lord Byron
What are your thoughts about such a mindset? Is there any way a philosophy focusing so heavily on feeling and sensation could lead to positive outcomes in life? Is there any way it could lead to negative outcomes? Explain.
2-16-16: Freedom
Is freedom so important that all people should always fight for all people to have it? Do people who are free have the right to attempt to change the situation of people who are not free? Explain.
2-11-16: Rights
To what degree do you think the government has the right to give and take away the rights of its citizens? If the majority of citizens desire to implement/uphold a law that is arguably unjust or restrictive of personal rights, does the government ever have the right to override that majority? Explain.
2-10-16: Guys vs Girls - Education
Statistically, girls across America are vastly outperforming guys in typical academic settings. To what do you attribute this phenomenon? Do you believe this chasm between male and female achievement is natural or related to cultural/societal circumstances?
2-9-16: Inequality
Is any type of inequality fair or right? Is there anything one shouldn’t be allowed to do based on uncontrollable influences (such as sex, race, age, size, etc.)
2-8-16: Personality Differences
Do you think the personality differences between men and women are natural or attributable to the different ways boys and girls are raised? What evidence would you use to support your standpoint?
2-5-16: Gender Roles
Are certain gender roles beneficial to society, or are they restrictive? What is the proper way to balance gender roles without restricting freedom or opportunity based on gender? Should we direct boys toward certain behaviors and girls toward others? Explain.
1-28-16: Justifying Inaction
What are some ways people justify inaction when confronted with poverty, crime, and inequality?
1-27-16: Fame and Satire
Is it fair that public figures are fair game when it comes to satire/criticism while an average citizen is not? Do famous people deserve the amount of criticism they get for the way they live their lives? Why should the media have more freedom to invade a famous person’s privacy than your privacy?
1-26-16: Haves and Have Nots
Does a country of greater power, wealth, and resources have any responsibility toward the countries around it? When a country achieves a high level of success through the hard work and effort of its people, is that country obligated to share its success? Explain.
1-25–16: Statistics
What are some pitfalls of arguments that lean heavily on logic or statistics? Can a person be too logical for his/her own good?
1-22-16: Satire
“Satire is a sort of mirror, wherein beholders do generally discover everybody's face but their own.”
-- Jonathan Swift
What does the above quote mean and what does it teach us about how we should write and respond to satirical writing?
1-21–16: Types of Appeals
Which type of appeal do you think our society values most? Why do you think that is? Which type do you find most effective in your own life? Explain.
Logical
Emotional
Ethical
1-20-16: Criticism
Does outright criticism actually produce results when applied by parents, teachers, coaches, bosses, etc.? Is it better to be brutally honest with criticism or use gentle words and ideas to get your point across? Does the answer differ when trying to motivate adults versus teenagers or children? Explain.
1-19-16: Cynicism
Cynicism can play a major role in satirical/persuasive writing. When promoting a cause or calling attention to an issue, what are some possible dangers of taking a cynical approach?
Definition:
Cynicism - An attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others
NOTEBOOK ENTRIES SECOND SEMESTER ABOVE THIS POINT
12-14-15: Big Shot/Small Stage
Would you rather be a big shot on a small stage or slightly above average on a large stage? Explain.
12-7-15: Forgiveness
What does complete forgiveness mean to you? Should victims be expected to completely forgive the people who hurt them if those people repent? Explain.
12-4-15: Revenge
Is revenge or the seeking of revenge ever justifiable? Is the concept always evil at heart? Why is it such a powerful human emotion continually used thematically in every generation?
11–30-15: Tragic Hero
One of the characteristics of a tragic hero is that the reader:
1. Must feel some level of sympathy toward the character
and
2. Must recognize some level of potential goodness in him or her.
Does Macbeth fit this characterization up to this point in the play? Explain.
11-13-15: Human Desires
Which of the following do you think the average person desires most? Explain your choice.
Money
Power
Fame
Desirability
Respect
Love
Youth
11-11-15: Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
A Self Fulfilling Prophecy is a prediction that causes itself to come true due only to the fact that the prediction was made. This happens because the prophecy itself influences the person the prophecy was made about.
Some critics have seen the character Macbeth as a victim of uncontrollable events, while others believe he “self fulfills” the prophecies made about him. So far in the play, which of the two options would you agree with and why?
11–10-15: Selling Out
Do you think society is willing to forgive major flaws/mistakes made during a person’s rise to fame based on the final overall accomplishments of the person? If a person ends up wildly successful do you think society believes the ends justified the means? Do you think most famous people had to sell out to some degree to achieve their current statuses? Explain.
11-9-15: Sugarcoating Life
Should parents sugarcoat life for the sake of their children? At what stage of development should people be exposed to the more difficult truths of life? If a child asks a tough question should we avoid truthful answers until a certain age? Explain.
11-6-15: Goals
In terms of self-fulfillment, do you think it is better to set your goals incredibly high and seriously risk not achieving them or to realistically set your goals at a lower point that is more likely achievable? What are the benefits/dangers of both mindsets?
11-4-15: Morality of Leadership
Does a leader need to be a moral person to be effective? If not, are there any benefits to having a moral leader? Are there any possible cons? Are there any possible pros of a leader who is not moral?
11-3-15: Envy or Motivation?
What is the difference between being envious and simply admiring someone else’s success? Can either of these mindsets lead to positive outcomes or should both be avoided? Is it ever okay to fixate on or want something someone else has? Explain.
11-2-15: Deadly Sins
If you had to choose, which of the following sins do you consider most harmful to an individual? Explain.
Lust – Extremely strong desire for something, usually pleasure based
Gluttony – Indulging in something too often, usually eating.
Greed – Intense/selfish desire for wealth
Sloth - Laziness
Wrath – Extreme anger
Envy – Resentful longing for someone else’s possessions
Pride – Superior opinion of self
10-29-15: Allegiance
Put the following list in order based on who you think a person’s primary allegiance should be to and then answer the questions below.
King/Country
Family
Friends
Self
Acquaintances
Colleagues
Is there ever a situation that might cause the order to change? Is it ever okay to put your own needs ahead of the needs of these other groups? Should the support you receive from each group have an effect on how much support you give them? Explain.
10-28-15: Survival of the Fittest?
To what degree do the strong have an obligation to protect the weak? How does your answer to this question correlate with a society that promotes the concept that “only the strong survive”? Will a person who attempts to protect the weak be at some disadvantage compared to a people who only look out for themselves?
10-26-15: Land of Opportunity
Many envision America as a place of equal opportunity and rights. All citizens are supposed to have the right to “pursue happiness” regardless of economic/social status, race, religious beliefs or sex. Do you think America lives up to this billing or not? Are certain factors more likely to limit someone’s ability to achieve their dreams in America? Explain?
10-22-15: Standards + Equality
Is there a danger to focusing on total equality in all cases? Is it fair to hold some people in society to higher/lower standards than others? Who or what should determine which people should be treated differently or what standards they should be held to? Explain.
Educationally
Behaviorally
Athletically
Legally
10-20-15: Flattery
When you think of the term flattery, what immediately comes to mind? Is flattery a good or bad thing? Can flattery be honest or is it always something done with an ulterior motive in mind? Is flattery a skill that can be used to an advantage in life? Should it be used in such a way?
10-19-15: Men/Women Daily Life
Compare the daily life differences between men and women? In what ways do you think men have it easier than women in today’s society? In what ways do they have it harder? Vice Versa? Explain.
10-16-15: Cowardice Vs. Wisdom
When faced with a situation that is dangerous or causes fear, what is the difference between cowardice and wisdom? In what ways, if any, does a person’s rank, title, position, or level of responsibility affect the answer to the question? Explain.
10-8-15: Marriage roles
Do you think most marriages today still have uniquely defined roles for men and women? If so, what are these roles? Have they changed over time? Do you think a marriage is better off if it does or does not have such roles? Can a marriage be successful without these uniquely defined roles?
10-7-15: Meritocracy
Is America a meritocracy? If not, what things dictate success in America? Do you think the social circumstances one is born into are more or less significant to overall success than who your parents are, where you are raised, how wealthy your family is, etc.
10-6-15: Youth
Quote: “Youth is wasted on the young”
What do you think this means? Do you think it is true? Are there certain ways you should behave when you are young that you should change as you age? Explain.
10-5-15: Dark Ages
When you think of the term “Dark Ages” what comes to your mind? From what you know, when did this age supposedly occur, what brought it about, and why did it occur? Do not worry about correct answers, just what ideas come to mind.
10-2-15: Diversification
Should we purposely attempt to diversify our group of friends? Explain.
10-1-15: Cross Cultural Trips
Should students be required to take some sort of cross-cultural trip during high school or college? Is a person who has no desire to leave the country or experience different cultures missing out on anything they need? Can brief trips to other cultures inspire real, lasting change in people? Can they if they are mandatory? Explain.
SECTION #2 NOTEBOOK ENTRIES ABOVE THIS POINT
9-30-15: High School
Do you consider high school learning to be valuable for its own sake or do you consider it a means to an end? Would you answer differently for college learning? Explain.
9-29-15: Justice Served?
In your experience, do you think people actually “reap what they sow” based on behavior? In other words, does society usually reward proper behavior, hard work and responsibility? Does society usually punish improper or irresponsible behavior? Are there exceptions? Explain.
9-28-15: Chivalry
Basic Definition of Chivalry
The demonstration of courtesy, honor, politeness, loyalty, and courage, esp. toward leaders, women, or those who are weak.
Quote
Chivalry is dead.
Is the above quote true? How do you think the concept of chivalry has changed over time? Is it a good or bad thing that it has changed? Can you think of any ways that the change has been good? Explain.
9-24-15: Past vs. Present
Do you consider old literature to be better/more advanced than current literature? What reasons, if any, do you believe schools should require students to read literature from the distant past? If you disagree with what is taught in English classes today, what do you think should be taught and why? Explain.
9-23-15: Wisdom of the Past
Do you think people of the past had some level of wisdom or understanding about life we no longer possess? Is there anything about the way we live today compared to the way people lived in the past which would give those people certain insights we no longer have? In what ways, if any, do you think people of the past were better or had it better than people of the present? Explain.
9-22-15: Emotions
It is often said that it is unhealthy to bottle up one’s emotions. Do you agree with this statement? Do you think modern American society encourages people to let out their emotions or to keep them inside? If a person doesn’t respond outwardly to an incredibly emotional situation, is there anything wrong with that? Explain.
9-21-15: Personal Tragedy
What is the healthiest way to handle grieving following a major tragedy. Are certain tragedies too serious or overwhelming to overcome. Is it reasonable for people to expect others to overcome tragic situations after some allotment of time? Do we ever have any right to question the way another person grieves? Explain.
9-16-15: Greed vs. Making a Living
How would you define greed? What is the difference between a person who is greedy and a person who is simply seeking financial independence/self sufficiency? Is there a measurable/definable point at which you would declare someone greedy? If so, what is it?
9-15-15 – Reputation
Should your reputation matter to you? Do the opinions of other people concerning your reputation matter whether those opinions are true or not? Should you take someone’s reputation into account before meeting them? Explain.
9-14-15: Personality Flaws
Can a person who suffers from major personality or character flaws be a hero? In what ways can personality weaknesses or flaws make a person more likable? Should we learn to live with the flaws of others or seek out those with the fewest flaws? Explain.
9-11-15: 9-11
What immediately comes to your mind when you think of the events of 9-11-2001 or the events of its aftermath? In what ways do you believe the country has changed since that day? Has it changed for the better or the worse? Explain.
9-9-15: Competition
Do you consider competition a positive and healthy thing for our society? Is there anything inherently wrong with a system that sets people up as adversaries to one another and requires one person's success to be based on another person's failure? Explain.
9-8-15: Arrogance
If you had to choose, would you rather be a person who has too high of an opinion about yourself, or too low of an opinion? Which person do you believe is more successful in modern America? Which person do you believe is more likable?
9-3-15: Hero + Success
What role does success play in determining the overall heroic status of a person? Can a person be a hero in spite of or due to failure?
9-2-15: Public Opinion
What role should public opinion play in the heroic status of a person? Can an unknown be a hero? Can the public mislabel someone as a hero? What do you believe ultimately determines whether someone is considered a hero by history?
9-1-15: Rewards and Sacrifice
Is personal sacrifice/heroism cheapened or less impressive if it leads to a tangible reward? Explain.
8-31-15: Society and Life
In a society dominated by aggression and warfare, what would you expect to find in regards to:
Choose Two:
Ethics
Family life
The role of women
Art
Literature
Livelihood
What would you say Lumen Christi High School did very well in your experience? What would you suggest as need improvements? Explain.
5-11-16: August 2012
If you could go back in time and had five minutes to talk to yourself the day before you started your freshman year, what would you say? Explain.
5-10-16: Change
In what ways, if any, is it okay to change who you are for another person? In what ways it is not okay? Is it dishonest to try to present yourself in a way not fully representative of who you are? Explain.
5-9-16: Lawsuits
What do you think of injury lawsuits that lead to massive payouts? Is this the way the legal system should work? Is there a better alternative? Explain.
5-4-16: Friends and Relationships
How important is it that the person you date/marry gets along with your friends? Should a romantic relationship take precedence over a friendship in some ways when it comes to time/attention? Vice versa?
4-28-16: Rewards
Is there anything wrong with using tangible rewards to generate action in people? Should parents/schools use rewards to motivate young people? Is there something less noble about achieving something solely for the sake of a reward? Explain.
4-27-16: Relationship Traits
In terms of a potential future spouse, list the following traits in order from most important to least important:
Personality
Sense of humor
Morals
Family
History
Level of education
Finances
Religion
Goals/Motivation
Sense of adventure
Confident
In touch with emotions
Humble
Responsible
Looks
Honesty
Is it vain to take into account things like looks, level of education, or finances when considering a potential spouse? Would you be willing to sacrifice certain good traits if someone was overwhelmingly gifted in the trait(s) you value most? Is this vain? Explain.
4-26-16: Personal Needs
Is there ever a time when it is justifiable to put yourself or your own needs in front of the needs of others? Explain.
4-25-16: Loan Ethics
Is it unethical for lenders to loan money to people who will most likely not be able to pay it back? Do lenders have the right to charge interest for the use of their money? Is it fair for the government to legally prevent a person from taking out a loan if said person can find a willing lender? Explain.
4-22-16: Change/Representation
In terms of personal relationships, is it okay to change/embellish who you are for another person? In what ways it is not okay? Is it dishonest to try to present yourself in an overly positive manner if it is not fully representative of who you are? Is “putting your best foot forward” in a job interview similar to lying? Explain.
4-21-16: Law
If the law were immediately non-existent, how bad do you think things would get in society? Is the law the only thing keeping people accountable or do you think certain sections of society would be relatively unaffected by its removal? What besides consequences are some of the motivating factors for why people behave the ways they do? Explain?
4-20-16: Stereotypes
Why do racist, ageist, sexist, classist stereotypes exist? Is it wrong to consider stereotypes when making judgments about people? At what point does stereotypical thinking become dangerous? Will people naturally make stereotypes or are they driven by some underlying, learned value? Explain.
4-15-16: Submission
The Bible uses the word “submit” when describing the relationship between a husband and a wife. What does this concept of submission to one’s spouse mean to you? Does the way this submission plays out differ between husbands and wives or is it the same? If a husband and a wife outright disagree on something incredibly important, what should they do?
NOTEBOOK FIVE ABOVE THIS POINT
4-13-16: Arranged Marriage
If your parents were to arrange your marriage, do you think they would do a good job? How do you think their selection would differ from your own? What traits might they consider more important than you would? Less important? Can you see any benefit at all to an arranged marriage system? Explain.
4-11-16: Parental Consent?
What say, if any, should your parents/family have in who you date/marry? Are there any reasons it would be wise to take their opinions into account and is it possible to do so while remaining entirely true to your heart? Explain.
3-29-16: Parents and Gifts
How should parents of wealth handle the giving of gifts to their children? After working hard to achieve their place in life, is there anything wrong with parents being overly giving with their children? Should parents hold back in any way for the sake of their child’s development? Explain.
3-23-16: Marriage and Children
To what degree should parents who are experiencing relationship issues attempt to hide those issues from their children? Is lying to children or keeping information from them about the health of their relationship okay? Should parents always try to give off the impression that their relationship is fine or should they be totally honest with their children about relationship struggles? Explain.
3-22-16: Change
What is the appropriate response for a husband or wife if their spouse’s appearance, behavior, philosophies, or ambitions change drastically during the course of a marriage? Is it ever okay to ask a spouse to change who they are or give up something they enjoy? Explain.
3-21-16: Financial Relationships
Should the way you feel about money or managing your personal finances at all play a role in who you marry? Is love somehow cheapened when discussions of money come into play in regards to marriage or long term relationships? Is considering the financial status of someone you are considering dating always shallow? Explain.
3-17-16: Truth and Marriage
Is it ever okay for husbands and wives to keep secrets from one another? Is it okay to keep a spouse in the dark about something you’ve done, are doing, or will do, even if the thing isn’t wrong? Does being married to someone mean being completely honest with that person all the time? Explain.
3-16-15: Marriage
Do you think marriage is overly romanticized in our culture? Is it okay for some people to claim marriage is a goal they want to achieve? Is it wrong for someone to be depressed or sad by the fact they are not married? Explain.
3-15-16: Time and Money
Would you be willing to sacrifice years of your life for incredible amounts of money? Is it better to live a short period of time to the fullest or a long period of time only somewhat fulfilled? Is wasting the time you’re given a sin? Explain.
3-14-16: Great Commission
How should Christians balance the commands of The Great Commission with the ideas of political correctness and having respect for other religions? Should Christians even be concerned with such things considering the beliefs about salvation which Christians adhere to? Explain.
3-11-2016: Compromise
Is there really such a thing as compromise when it comes to politics? Will there always be two competing parties, with two differing agendas, who are always at odds with one another? When two groups of differing values collide, must one group always win and the other lose? Is this the most effective way of governing a society? Explain.
3-10-16: Greatest Fears
Rank the following fears. Which fear in the left column ranked highest on your list? What is it about this fear that makes you fear it so much?
Fear of:
Death (own) Closed Spaces
Death (loved one) Heights
Failure Spiders
Being Alone Flying
Rejection Snakes
Public Speaking
Commitment
Public embarrassment
Sickness/illness
3-9-16: Cultural Values
Should a country/institution alter its standard procedures to cater to the needs of other cultures and their values? If so, to what extent? Should people visiting other cultures alter their standard procedures to adhere to the values of another culture? If so, to what extent? Explain.
3-8-16: Empire
In what ways can the concept of an “empire” benefit society? In what ways can it hurt it? Is the idea of extending an empire inherently evil? Has the concept of empire building hurt or helped our world overall? Explain.
3-7-16: Human Rights
How humane should a society be to its prisoners? Which rights, if any, do citizens forfeit upon arrest/conviction/imprisonment? Must we consider the rights of people who are dangerous to society at all? Can we eliminate rights for the sake of the protection of the country? Explain.
2-29-16: Growing Up
In terms of behavior, do you feel like young people are expected to mature too quickly? Is too much pressure placed on people at too young of an age? Is the pressure justified? Explain your response.
2–26-16: Ethical Standards
When is it okay for a person to question the moral/ethical standards of another person? Since everyone is raised differently, is it ever fair to try to impose moral standards onto another person? Should people who believe they are in the right on a moral issue even care how those who they believe are in the wrong feel about their actions? Explain.
2-23-16: Penance
Suppose someone commits a great crime/sin and later feels sorry about it. Is it necessary for that person to “pay a debt” before he/she can be completely forgiven for the action? Why or why not? Do society’s views on this subject differ from Christian views? Explain.
Penance: After you confess your sins, the priest gives you a penance to perform. A penance may be to do something nice for your enemy every day for a week. It may be to visit a nursing home or hospital one day a week for a month. It may be to donate time to a soup kitchen or clothing bank. It may involve any one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy. Or it may be a set of prayers, such as saying the Our Father or the Hail Mary, a certain number of times. Whatever the penance, it’s merely a token, because Catholics believe that the sacrifice of Christ on the cross is what made atonement for our sins. Your penance is for your benefit — to remind you that God comes first and you come last.
2-22-16: Work of Art
In your opinion, what does it take for something to be classified as a work of art? Are works of art from today as impressive as those from the past? Is an “artist” still a viable profession to pursue, or is art something people should consider more of an on the side hobby today? Explain.
2-18-16: Art
How important do you consider works of art to the development and betterment of society? Do you believe works of art are given the attention or value they deserve in today’s society? Do you think people in ages past valued art more than society today does? Explain.
2-17-16: Sensation
“The great object of life is sensation — to feel that we exist — even in pain.”
— Lord Byron
What are your thoughts about such a mindset? Is there any way a philosophy focusing so heavily on feeling and sensation could lead to positive outcomes in life? Is there any way it could lead to negative outcomes? Explain.
2-16-16: Freedom
Is freedom so important that all people should always fight for all people to have it? Do people who are free have the right to attempt to change the situation of people who are not free? Explain.
2-11-16: Rights
To what degree do you think the government has the right to give and take away the rights of its citizens? If the majority of citizens desire to implement/uphold a law that is arguably unjust or restrictive of personal rights, does the government ever have the right to override that majority? Explain.
2-10-16: Guys vs Girls - Education
Statistically, girls across America are vastly outperforming guys in typical academic settings. To what do you attribute this phenomenon? Do you believe this chasm between male and female achievement is natural or related to cultural/societal circumstances?
2-9-16: Inequality
Is any type of inequality fair or right? Is there anything one shouldn’t be allowed to do based on uncontrollable influences (such as sex, race, age, size, etc.)
2-8-16: Personality Differences
Do you think the personality differences between men and women are natural or attributable to the different ways boys and girls are raised? What evidence would you use to support your standpoint?
2-5-16: Gender Roles
Are certain gender roles beneficial to society, or are they restrictive? What is the proper way to balance gender roles without restricting freedom or opportunity based on gender? Should we direct boys toward certain behaviors and girls toward others? Explain.
1-28-16: Justifying Inaction
What are some ways people justify inaction when confronted with poverty, crime, and inequality?
1-27-16: Fame and Satire
Is it fair that public figures are fair game when it comes to satire/criticism while an average citizen is not? Do famous people deserve the amount of criticism they get for the way they live their lives? Why should the media have more freedom to invade a famous person’s privacy than your privacy?
1-26-16: Haves and Have Nots
Does a country of greater power, wealth, and resources have any responsibility toward the countries around it? When a country achieves a high level of success through the hard work and effort of its people, is that country obligated to share its success? Explain.
1-25–16: Statistics
What are some pitfalls of arguments that lean heavily on logic or statistics? Can a person be too logical for his/her own good?
1-22-16: Satire
“Satire is a sort of mirror, wherein beholders do generally discover everybody's face but their own.”
-- Jonathan Swift
What does the above quote mean and what does it teach us about how we should write and respond to satirical writing?
1-21–16: Types of Appeals
Which type of appeal do you think our society values most? Why do you think that is? Which type do you find most effective in your own life? Explain.
Logical
Emotional
Ethical
1-20-16: Criticism
Does outright criticism actually produce results when applied by parents, teachers, coaches, bosses, etc.? Is it better to be brutally honest with criticism or use gentle words and ideas to get your point across? Does the answer differ when trying to motivate adults versus teenagers or children? Explain.
1-19-16: Cynicism
Cynicism can play a major role in satirical/persuasive writing. When promoting a cause or calling attention to an issue, what are some possible dangers of taking a cynical approach?
Definition:
Cynicism - An attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, especially a general distrust of the integrity or professed motives of others
NOTEBOOK ENTRIES SECOND SEMESTER ABOVE THIS POINT
12-14-15: Big Shot/Small Stage
Would you rather be a big shot on a small stage or slightly above average on a large stage? Explain.
12-7-15: Forgiveness
What does complete forgiveness mean to you? Should victims be expected to completely forgive the people who hurt them if those people repent? Explain.
12-4-15: Revenge
Is revenge or the seeking of revenge ever justifiable? Is the concept always evil at heart? Why is it such a powerful human emotion continually used thematically in every generation?
11–30-15: Tragic Hero
One of the characteristics of a tragic hero is that the reader:
1. Must feel some level of sympathy toward the character
and
2. Must recognize some level of potential goodness in him or her.
Does Macbeth fit this characterization up to this point in the play? Explain.
11-13-15: Human Desires
Which of the following do you think the average person desires most? Explain your choice.
Money
Power
Fame
Desirability
Respect
Love
Youth
11-11-15: Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
A Self Fulfilling Prophecy is a prediction that causes itself to come true due only to the fact that the prediction was made. This happens because the prophecy itself influences the person the prophecy was made about.
Some critics have seen the character Macbeth as a victim of uncontrollable events, while others believe he “self fulfills” the prophecies made about him. So far in the play, which of the two options would you agree with and why?
11–10-15: Selling Out
Do you think society is willing to forgive major flaws/mistakes made during a person’s rise to fame based on the final overall accomplishments of the person? If a person ends up wildly successful do you think society believes the ends justified the means? Do you think most famous people had to sell out to some degree to achieve their current statuses? Explain.
11-9-15: Sugarcoating Life
Should parents sugarcoat life for the sake of their children? At what stage of development should people be exposed to the more difficult truths of life? If a child asks a tough question should we avoid truthful answers until a certain age? Explain.
11-6-15: Goals
In terms of self-fulfillment, do you think it is better to set your goals incredibly high and seriously risk not achieving them or to realistically set your goals at a lower point that is more likely achievable? What are the benefits/dangers of both mindsets?
11-4-15: Morality of Leadership
Does a leader need to be a moral person to be effective? If not, are there any benefits to having a moral leader? Are there any possible cons? Are there any possible pros of a leader who is not moral?
11-3-15: Envy or Motivation?
What is the difference between being envious and simply admiring someone else’s success? Can either of these mindsets lead to positive outcomes or should both be avoided? Is it ever okay to fixate on or want something someone else has? Explain.
11-2-15: Deadly Sins
If you had to choose, which of the following sins do you consider most harmful to an individual? Explain.
Lust – Extremely strong desire for something, usually pleasure based
Gluttony – Indulging in something too often, usually eating.
Greed – Intense/selfish desire for wealth
Sloth - Laziness
Wrath – Extreme anger
Envy – Resentful longing for someone else’s possessions
Pride – Superior opinion of self
10-29-15: Allegiance
Put the following list in order based on who you think a person’s primary allegiance should be to and then answer the questions below.
King/Country
Family
Friends
Self
Acquaintances
Colleagues
Is there ever a situation that might cause the order to change? Is it ever okay to put your own needs ahead of the needs of these other groups? Should the support you receive from each group have an effect on how much support you give them? Explain.
10-28-15: Survival of the Fittest?
To what degree do the strong have an obligation to protect the weak? How does your answer to this question correlate with a society that promotes the concept that “only the strong survive”? Will a person who attempts to protect the weak be at some disadvantage compared to a people who only look out for themselves?
10-26-15: Land of Opportunity
Many envision America as a place of equal opportunity and rights. All citizens are supposed to have the right to “pursue happiness” regardless of economic/social status, race, religious beliefs or sex. Do you think America lives up to this billing or not? Are certain factors more likely to limit someone’s ability to achieve their dreams in America? Explain?
10-22-15: Standards + Equality
Is there a danger to focusing on total equality in all cases? Is it fair to hold some people in society to higher/lower standards than others? Who or what should determine which people should be treated differently or what standards they should be held to? Explain.
Educationally
Behaviorally
Athletically
Legally
10-20-15: Flattery
When you think of the term flattery, what immediately comes to mind? Is flattery a good or bad thing? Can flattery be honest or is it always something done with an ulterior motive in mind? Is flattery a skill that can be used to an advantage in life? Should it be used in such a way?
10-19-15: Men/Women Daily Life
Compare the daily life differences between men and women? In what ways do you think men have it easier than women in today’s society? In what ways do they have it harder? Vice Versa? Explain.
10-16-15: Cowardice Vs. Wisdom
When faced with a situation that is dangerous or causes fear, what is the difference between cowardice and wisdom? In what ways, if any, does a person’s rank, title, position, or level of responsibility affect the answer to the question? Explain.
10-8-15: Marriage roles
Do you think most marriages today still have uniquely defined roles for men and women? If so, what are these roles? Have they changed over time? Do you think a marriage is better off if it does or does not have such roles? Can a marriage be successful without these uniquely defined roles?
10-7-15: Meritocracy
Is America a meritocracy? If not, what things dictate success in America? Do you think the social circumstances one is born into are more or less significant to overall success than who your parents are, where you are raised, how wealthy your family is, etc.
10-6-15: Youth
Quote: “Youth is wasted on the young”
What do you think this means? Do you think it is true? Are there certain ways you should behave when you are young that you should change as you age? Explain.
10-5-15: Dark Ages
When you think of the term “Dark Ages” what comes to your mind? From what you know, when did this age supposedly occur, what brought it about, and why did it occur? Do not worry about correct answers, just what ideas come to mind.
10-2-15: Diversification
Should we purposely attempt to diversify our group of friends? Explain.
10-1-15: Cross Cultural Trips
Should students be required to take some sort of cross-cultural trip during high school or college? Is a person who has no desire to leave the country or experience different cultures missing out on anything they need? Can brief trips to other cultures inspire real, lasting change in people? Can they if they are mandatory? Explain.
SECTION #2 NOTEBOOK ENTRIES ABOVE THIS POINT
9-30-15: High School
Do you consider high school learning to be valuable for its own sake or do you consider it a means to an end? Would you answer differently for college learning? Explain.
9-29-15: Justice Served?
In your experience, do you think people actually “reap what they sow” based on behavior? In other words, does society usually reward proper behavior, hard work and responsibility? Does society usually punish improper or irresponsible behavior? Are there exceptions? Explain.
9-28-15: Chivalry
Basic Definition of Chivalry
The demonstration of courtesy, honor, politeness, loyalty, and courage, esp. toward leaders, women, or those who are weak.
Quote
Chivalry is dead.
Is the above quote true? How do you think the concept of chivalry has changed over time? Is it a good or bad thing that it has changed? Can you think of any ways that the change has been good? Explain.
9-24-15: Past vs. Present
Do you consider old literature to be better/more advanced than current literature? What reasons, if any, do you believe schools should require students to read literature from the distant past? If you disagree with what is taught in English classes today, what do you think should be taught and why? Explain.
9-23-15: Wisdom of the Past
Do you think people of the past had some level of wisdom or understanding about life we no longer possess? Is there anything about the way we live today compared to the way people lived in the past which would give those people certain insights we no longer have? In what ways, if any, do you think people of the past were better or had it better than people of the present? Explain.
9-22-15: Emotions
It is often said that it is unhealthy to bottle up one’s emotions. Do you agree with this statement? Do you think modern American society encourages people to let out their emotions or to keep them inside? If a person doesn’t respond outwardly to an incredibly emotional situation, is there anything wrong with that? Explain.
9-21-15: Personal Tragedy
What is the healthiest way to handle grieving following a major tragedy. Are certain tragedies too serious or overwhelming to overcome. Is it reasonable for people to expect others to overcome tragic situations after some allotment of time? Do we ever have any right to question the way another person grieves? Explain.
9-16-15: Greed vs. Making a Living
How would you define greed? What is the difference between a person who is greedy and a person who is simply seeking financial independence/self sufficiency? Is there a measurable/definable point at which you would declare someone greedy? If so, what is it?
9-15-15 – Reputation
Should your reputation matter to you? Do the opinions of other people concerning your reputation matter whether those opinions are true or not? Should you take someone’s reputation into account before meeting them? Explain.
9-14-15: Personality Flaws
Can a person who suffers from major personality or character flaws be a hero? In what ways can personality weaknesses or flaws make a person more likable? Should we learn to live with the flaws of others or seek out those with the fewest flaws? Explain.
9-11-15: 9-11
What immediately comes to your mind when you think of the events of 9-11-2001 or the events of its aftermath? In what ways do you believe the country has changed since that day? Has it changed for the better or the worse? Explain.
9-9-15: Competition
Do you consider competition a positive and healthy thing for our society? Is there anything inherently wrong with a system that sets people up as adversaries to one another and requires one person's success to be based on another person's failure? Explain.
9-8-15: Arrogance
If you had to choose, would you rather be a person who has too high of an opinion about yourself, or too low of an opinion? Which person do you believe is more successful in modern America? Which person do you believe is more likable?
9-3-15: Hero + Success
What role does success play in determining the overall heroic status of a person? Can a person be a hero in spite of or due to failure?
9-2-15: Public Opinion
What role should public opinion play in the heroic status of a person? Can an unknown be a hero? Can the public mislabel someone as a hero? What do you believe ultimately determines whether someone is considered a hero by history?
9-1-15: Rewards and Sacrifice
Is personal sacrifice/heroism cheapened or less impressive if it leads to a tangible reward? Explain.
8-31-15: Society and Life
In a society dominated by aggression and warfare, what would you expect to find in regards to:
Choose Two:
Ethics
Family life
The role of women
Art
Literature
Livelihood