#1: Sinister Criticism

     Criticism is a dominant expression in today’s society; a society that is defined by the opinions of many individuals. Some theorists’ point out, “Whose criticism makes a difference amongst people or society as a whole?” In Michael Ryan’s book “An Introduction to Criticism: Literature/Film/Culture,” Ryan begins to piece together some agreeable theories about whose criticism makes a difference. Although some may disagree or say some of Ryan’s theories are false; they are only expressing their own theories or “criticisms” of his work.

            Upon reading Ryan’s book, I discovered that his theories concerning the interpretation or definition of the term “terrorism” have established a valid argument. His theory argues that the term “terrorism” is being used to represent multiple categories versus representing one.  This misrepresentation can be linked to words or “opinions” of many individuals who hold the power of influence within the United States of America. Instead of terrorism being defined by its actual definition, he concludes that terrorism is defined in many ways. Terrorism now can be defined by words and events such as: Islam (beliefs), the attack on the World Trade Center (events), Osama bin Laden (people) and Hitler (history).  

            Another theory of Ryan’s includes an individual’s belief is a way by which power is established within the United States. I agree with this theory as it pertains to how power is perceived and used in the United States through politics, media, church and wealth. For example, Hitler realized that both his citizens and he were in a state of economic stress due to a significant amount of debt owed to the United States at the end of WWI. Capitalizing upon his political power, Hitler sought to decrease Germany’s financial debt by focusing attention on a race that was disliked throughout Germany. The Jewish population were financially successful with small businesses. Hitler convinced the Germans that the word Jew was a representation of someone who was: unattractive (ugly), dirty, infected with diseases, and were inferior to all Germans. The citizens of Germany were so desperate for relief that they transposed their suffering into anger towards the Jewish population.  Hitler’s manipulation of German citizens resulted in a retaliation against a race that had no ties to their economic suffering. Thousands of individuals lost their lives all because a country put their trust in a political leader who was looking for personal gain instead of economic gain for his country.