Then, Saint-Simon followed this idea with something I hadn't even considered. If the same number of nobility disappeared, the people of France would mourn, yes. However, they would mourn from social obligation, not from a true loss for society. Those considered the most important in the hierarchy would not have a huge impact on the political infrastructure of the society. What does this say about our society and our priorities?
Though written in 1819, it still rings true of our society today. As a culture, we place so much value on celebrities: musicians, athletes, the rich and famous. Some have little or no concrete contribution to society besides entertainment. Yet, when they pass away, the country goes into shock and mourning. The world continues to spin on the same as it always did, though for some, the obsession remains. While there is nothing wrong with being famous and wealthy, I think that the level of adoration they receive is too much. There are many people who have died as unsung heroes, who deserve the fame and respect some people have simply because they were born wealthy. The people that truly shape our society at the foundational level, such as teachers, policemen, engineers, doctors, and construction workers go through life without much recognition.
This brings me to Irena Sendler, a woman most people have never heard of. She was a Polish civilian social worker during World War II, who ended up saving 3000 Jews from the Nazis. She did not want credit for her accomplishments, but simply said, "Every child saved with my help is the justification of my existence on this Earth, and not a title to glory." Read more about her awesome story here. People like Irena deserve recognition and appreciation. Countless lives were saved and altered because of her devotion to her calling.
Saint-Simon advocated for a restructuring of the social hierarchy, with the new thinkers on the top. Everyone else would fall into line by talent and help to mankind. He was critical of hierarchies and monarchies, due to the way they were set up. Similar to our society today, the wealthy were on the top, with everyone else falling underneath them. Though it may not be plausible due to how our culture is oriented, I do think we should focus on educating ourselves about people who have altered the world through selfless and unrecognized tasks. They should be considered at the top of the hierarchy, having influence on the world, with each passion and act of courage.
A very fine read Alanna LeClair. The story of Irena Sendler was unknown to me and I appreciate its inclusion. I believe you are correct about the many people that forever remain "unsung heroes" of society. It is a curious irony to me that the general masses seem to glorify fame/wealth as the ultimate definition of success. The only clarification that I would include in your post is; who are the "new thinkers" Saint-Simone would install as the top tier leaders? (and why).
ReplyDeleteI really found it interesting that we would be so upset and hurt by a few hundred people going away over night yet the same amount of people at the top we would not really miss that much. It is really to me a simple idea that should be easy to see yet I overlook it a lot. I feel its the same thing with how much people get paid for the jobs. The ones that really have important and good jobs don't get paid a lot. Yet, people with jobs that get a lot of social attention like TV and sports get paid so much just for us to watch them. I could never really place in my mind why this was. I really enjoy reading your blog. I like the story you used of Sendler was very good. I might of just liked to see some numbers or more statistics to get a better idea.
ReplyDeleteGood thoughts Alanna! I completely agree with the fact that our society puts too much value on the rich and famous. Everyone is too concerned with Lady GaGa's new hit, or who is next to be on the Bachelor, it truly is disappointing. Our society value's and views would be completely different if we looked to the hero's that nobody knows about. I appreciate that you included Irena Sendler in your blog. Her life and all that she did for others was completely unknown to me. How different our society would be if we looked up to people like Irena Sendler. The only part of your blog that I did not completely follow was when you mentioned the "new thinkers", a definition as to who these "new thinkers" are would greatly clarify things. Other than that, fantastic thoughts! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat job! It was very interesting and very true. Our society puts to much vaule on the famous people. I really like your comment on how there are many people who die that our heros but don't get the time of day that famous people do. Great job. I would also have to say having more insight on what Simon ment by "new thinkers" would be good. Overall great job Alanna.
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