Compare And Contrast MLK And Malcolm X Clips

Compare And Contrast Themlk And Malcolm X Clipswhat Is The Problem Ac

Compare and contrast the MLK and Malcolm X clips. What is the problem according to each? How does each propose to fix the problem? What problem will you address in your persuasive speech topic? Why did you pick this problem? The Social Exchange Theory describes a particular way of viewing relationships. Do you think this a good way to look at relationships? Why or why not? Do you feel like you or someone you know has a parasocial relationship? Give some examples of shows that you think create or encourage these type of relationships? It does not need to be in a form off an essay nor does it have to be that much writing.

Paper For Above instruction

The contrasting perspectives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X provide a compelling examination of approaches to addressing racial inequality and social injustice in the United States. Both leaders emerged during the civil rights movement, yet their philosophies, methods, and visions for change diverged significantly, reflecting differing perceptions of the problems faced by African Americans and the means to achieve justice.

Martin Luther King Jr. is often celebrated for his commitment to nonviolent resistance and his belief in peaceful protest as a means to attain racial equality. According to King, the primary problem was racial segregation, discrimination, and economic inequality that marginalized African Americans. His approach centered on appealing to the moral conscience of the nation through peaceful demonstrations, legal challenges, and dialogues aimed at fostering racial harmony. King’s philosophy was deeply rooted in Christian ideals and the principles of civil disobedience, as exemplified in his leadership during events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington. His "I Have a Dream" speech articulated a vision of a racially integrated and equitable society where individuals are judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin (King, 1963).

In contrast, Malcolm X adopted a more militant stance, emphasizing self-defense, black pride, and racial separation as solutions to systemic oppression. According to Malcolm X, the core problem was the systematic exploitation and dehumanization of Black people by a racially biased system rooted in white supremacy. He argued that integration alone would not bring justice or true equality and promoted the idea that African Americans should develop self-sufficiency and pride in their identity. Malcolm X’s approach included advocating for Black nationalism, economic independence, and the right to defend oneself against violence, sometimes through more aggressive tactics. His famous call for "Any means necessary" reflected his belief that African Americans must first secure their own empowerment before seeking integration with white society (Malcolm X, 1964).

Both leaders recognized the root causes of racial injustice but differed in their proposed solutions. King believed systemic change could be achieved through nonviolent pressure and appealing to shared American values. Malcolm X, however, emphasized the importance of Black empowerment and self-reliance, often criticizing integrationist strategies as ineffective or detrimental to Black dignity.

When considering my persuasive speech topic, I would address the contemporary issue of racial disparities in the criminal justice system. I chose this problem because it continues to reflect systemic inequities that impact marginalized communities, particularly Black Americans. Issues such as racial profiling, sentencing disparities, and the school-to-prison pipeline require urgent attention and reform. By highlighting historical perspectives like those of King and Malcolm X, I aim to emphasize the importance of both peaceful advocacy and empowerment in pursuing justice.

The Social Exchange Theory (SET) offers a framework for understanding interpersonal relationships as exchanges where individuals seek to maximize benefits and minimize costs. SET suggests that relationships are maintained based on perceived rewards—such as companionship, support, or love—and costs, such as effort or conflict. While this view offers valuable insights into the negotiated aspects of relationships, it may oversimplify the emotional and moral complexities involved. Relationships also involve unconditional elements, such as commitment, altruism, and emotional bonds, which SET might not fully account for.

In my opinion, SET is useful as a lens to analyze certain interactions, especially transactional or instrumental relationships, but it should be complemented by other theories that consider emotional attachment and moral commitments. For example, in close relationships like family or romantic partnerships, individuals often endure sacrifices that go beyond simple cost-reward calculations.

Regarding parasocial relationships, I believe I or someone I know has experienced such bonds, where a person develops a one-sided emotional connection with a celebrity, influencer, or fictional character. An example might include fans feeling emotionally connected to actors or musicians through social media or television shows. Shows such as "The Office" or "Stranger Things" can generate parasocial attachments because viewers relate deeply to characters' experiences, despite the lack of mutual interaction. These relationships can provide comfort or companionship but also pose risks of emotional investment that is disproportionate to the actual interaction.

Overall, understanding the diverse methods of addressing social injustice, the dynamics of personal relationships through different theoretical lenses, and the impact of media on emotional bonds enriches our comprehension of human behaviors and societal issues. Both historical and contemporary perspectives highlight the importance of nuanced approaches—whether in social activism or personal relationships—in striving for a more equitable and understanding society.

References

  • King, M. L. Jr. (1963). I Have a Dream. Speech presented at the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
  • Malcolm X. (1964). The Ballot or the Bullet. Speech delivered in Detroit, Michigan.
  • Homans, G. C. (1958). Social behavior as exchange. American Journal of Sociology, 63(6), 597–606.
  • Rubin, Z. (1970). Measurement of romantic love. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 6(1), 130-147.
  • Rogers, C. R. (1961). On Becoming a Person: A Therapist’s View of Psychotherapy. Houghton Mifflin.
  • Reis, H. T., & Shaver, P. (1988). Intimate relationships. In S. W. Duck (Ed.), Handbook of personal relationships: Theory, research, and intervention (pp. 367-389). Wiley.
  • Horton, D., & Wohl, R. R. (1956). Mass communication and para-social interaction: Observations on intimacy at a distance. Psychiatry, 19(3), 215-229.
  • Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press.
  • Higgins, E. T. (1997). Beyond pleasure and pain. American Psychologist, 52(12), 1280-1300.
  • Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497–529.

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