This week in class we spent a lot of time discussing memorials. People as constantly fighting, and when the fighting escalates deaths occur. We make memorials to remember people that have died. They can be big or small. They can be for many people or for individuals, yet they all have the same purpose; to remind us of what we have lost and what we have to lose.
Memorials are only one way that we are reminded of death. We see other reminders constantly. Makeup/lotion commercials focus the anti-ageing properties of the product that the company is trying to sell. Diet programs remind us that we have to exercise to live longer. Vacuum infomercials try to convince us that our homes are brimming with dust particles that will decrease our life expectancy. Advertisers know that by making ordinary things seem dangerous we may be frightened or convinced into buying their products. They prey on our constant awareness of our limited lifespan that they themselves have helped create.
We see this awareness of death reflected in more innocent ways as well. Most people I know will say that they have a list of things they want accomplish before they die, in other words, a bucket list. The term "bucket list" comes from the phrase "to kick the bucket" a slang or informal way to say "to die". The proliferation of awareness about death has become normal in the modern world. Looking and feeling young are emphasized more in media and our everyday lives. While looking towards the future is important, more awareness should be placed on what is happening now.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_mongering
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